Category: Uncategorized

  • Hiroshima: Shukkeien Garden & Peace Park and Children's Science Museum

    Hiroshima: Shukkeien Garden & Peace Park and Children’s Science Museum

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 meet ＠Hiroshima Station
    • 10:05-10:40 Shukkeien Garden
    • 11:00-11:50 Hiroshima Castle
    • 12:00-13:30 Peace Park (Peace Memorial Museum) and Children's Science Museum
    • 13:30-14:00 Travel and tour ends ＠Hiroshima Station

    Title: What's a Private Family Tour of Hiroshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. At Shukkeien Garden, some of the guests enjoyed feeding the carp, and at Hiroshima Castle they tried on samurai helmets and lifted swords, exploring Hiroshima on foot much like the rest of the group. As it was still hot outside, around 30 degrees in the lingering late-summer heat, and because the indoor play equipment in the free area of the children's science museum along the way was so much fun that some of the group did not want to leave, part of the group stayed behind while the rest of us continued. Some of the guests and I went to Peace Memorial Park and visited the Peace Memorial Museum. We reunited with the rest of the group at the souvenir shop on the first floor of Orizuru Tower. At the souvenir shop, everyone took turns tasting a Japanese-style dashi broth on sample offer and then purchased some, as the group seemed to really like the dashi. At the end of the tour, I received a souvenir from Oceania. The group was delightful, I had a wonderful time, and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHiroshima Station～Shukkeien Garden220JPY
    Section 2OtherAtomic Bomb Dome-mae Tram Stop～Hiroshima Station220JPY
    Total440JPY

    Tour Report by Tomoyo

    As a Hiroshima government-certified English-speaking guide, I’ve led over 160 heartfelt tours for guests from around the world. I craft each experience with care, blending history, humor, and emotional resonance to help you connect deeply with this beautiful city and its stories. I love sharing insights about Hiroshima and Japan, but I also enjoy chatting with my guests as if we were friends, learning about each other along the way and creating meaningful moments together. Every tour becomes a unique exchange, shaped by the people I meet. I look forward to welcoming you and guiding you in Hiroshima.

    Request Booking

    Sep 24, 2025
    Paige_M
    Lovely and Educational Tour of Hiroshima
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide for this…

    May 8, 2025
    Smatty68
    Tomoyo was a star guide
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We really enjoyed our…

    Apr 29, 2025
    Josh_H
    Amazing experience and very grateful for my tour guide Tomoyo
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed…

    Apr 29, 2025
    Chloe_O
    The best day in Japan with Tomoyo!
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Tomoyo was…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Asakusa

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Arashio Stable
    • 9:20 Tsukiji
    • 10:20 Hamarikyu
    • 11:50 Lunch @ Ramen Ikkakuya
    • 12:40 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 14:30 Asakusa
    • 15:30 Disband at Ginza Station

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Sumo, Tsukiji, and Asakusa The tour began with a meeting at a sumo stable. Even before we met, I received an email conveying the excitement of having watched training at the sumo stable. At Tsukiji, I had thought we might buy sushi or sashimi at a market building to eat, but the guests walked right past it. Since there were Shine Muscat grapes available, I recommended trying them, and the guests were amazed by the large size of each grape and the new taste and deliciousness. The guests were pleased with the fresh seafood and showed interest in items such as live hairy crabs. At Hamarikyu, the guests enjoyed matcha and sweets at the teahouse on the island, and were satisfied and relaxed by the scenery as well. As the guests were getting hungry, we had ramen for lunch in Shimbashi, and the guests were delighted, saying it was a flavor they had never tasted in North America. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, the guests eagerly took many photos, remarking that the long-finned nishikigoi carp were elegant. As we were running short on time, we saw Asakusa quickly and then parted ways at Ginza Station.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNingyocho～Tsukiji600JPY
    Section 2TrainShimbashi～Takebashi0JPY
    Section 3TrainOtemachi～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 4TrainAsakusa～Ginza0JPY
    Total600JPY

    Tour Report by Koba

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM10:00 Hotel Resol Kyoto Shijo Meet-up
    • AM10:40 Fushimi Inari Shrine
    • AM12:00 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • AM14:00 Nishiki Koi Market　Dismissal

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like on a Busy Weekend? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe with a strong interest in travel, having traveled extensively across Asia and developed a deep appreciation for culture. Because it was a Saturday, the crowds were extremely heavy, and it was understandable that the guests, coming from a country with a relatively small population, found it overwhelming. They mentioned that the dinner they had eaten the previous evening had been expensive, and asked me to recommend places where they could dine at reasonable prices. I introduced two or three casual restaurants around the Kawaramachi area where prices were clearly displayed at a glance. They were the kind of guests who keenly felt how high prices can be at tourist spots by ordinary standards. Indeed, that morning as well, they had skipped breakfast at their accommodation and instead bought donuts and coffee at a convenience store along the way.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShijo～Kyoto220JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 3BusTofukuji～Kiyomizu-michi230JPY
    Section 4BusKiyomizu-michi～Shijo Kawaramachi230JPY
    Total830JPY

    Tour Report by Naoki

    I am Naoki Nakatani. I live in Osaka.
    I started tour guide from 2023 after 40 years
    work experience in Japanese manufacturing company. I am currently teaching Japanese as volunteer staff to foreign residents who live in my community. I have 11 and half years work experience in overseas office and I had interacted with people of foreign countries for a long time enjoying business and friendship with them. My guide experience is still short but I will provide my best service to the guests. I am in a position to prepare the itinerary if guests request and to send any information for the guest to make plan before visit to Japan.

    Request Booking

    Jul 11, 2026
    Trevor_F
    Viator review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    4 hour Private Tour
    Naomi was our guide and did a…

    Jun 6, 2026
    May_O
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful time in Kyoto
    We had a terrific time with Naoki. He…

    May 1, 2026
    Sanfrancisco820
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Choose Naoki – you will have a great day!!
    Naoki is an…

    Mar 28, 2026
    Tanya_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great guide
    Naoki was very kind and knowledgeable He knew the best…

  • Kyoto: Nijo Castle & Higashiyama

    Kyoto: Nijo Castle & Higashiyama

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meeting point: Hotel Kyoto Kawaramachi Jokanji
    • 09:20 Sightseeing ①: Nijo Castle
    • 10:20 Sightseeing ②: Kinkaku-ji
    • 11:20 Sightseeing ③: Arashiyama (Bamboo Path ⇒ Tenryu-ji ⇒ Togetsukyo Bridge)
    • 12:00 Lunch: Arashiyama (udon restaurant)
    • 13:20 Sightseeing ④: Fushimi Inari
    • 14:00 Sightseeing ⑤: Higashiyama (Ninen-zaka & Sannen-zaka)
    • 15:00 Dismissal: Hotel

    What's a Rainy-Day Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a visitor from North America who came to Japan for a trip. During the self-introduction on the day, I learned that the guest was making the most of the visit by enjoying a short trip around Japan. In the pre-tour planning of destinations, the request was, "Since a private car is included, I would like to visit as many sightseeing spots as possible." After several exchanges, we decided to visit four places: Nijo Castle → Kinkaku-ji → Arashiyama (lunch) → Fushimi Inari. Unfortunately, on the day, it was pouring rain from the morning, just as forecast. During the pre-departure briefing, I raised the question, "It will rain all day today. Would you like to change the destinations?" but the guest's wish was, "As long as we have rain gear, we'll be fine, so let's go as planned." In addition, there was a new request: "If there is time, I would like to visit Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka in Higashiyama." Before departure, after consulting with the private car driver as well, we agreed that "we won't push ourselves, but if there is enough time, we'll also go to Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka." Once we actually set off, the rain continued throughout the tour, though its intensity varied. Nijo Castle involved indoor viewing, so there was no difficulty, but at Kinkaku-ji, Arashiyama (the Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji, Togetsukyo Bridge), and Fushimi Inari, which are mainly outdoors, we ended up sightseeing while getting half wet even though we had umbrellas. Even under such poor conditions, the guest observed everything eagerly, listened to my explanations, and also asked questions. In the end, thanks to saving a little time here and there, including during the lunch break, we had about an hour to spare, so we were able to visit Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka, which had been the guest's additional request. The guest expressed gratitude, saying, "Thank you for making my request come true," and we looked around with great interest at Yasaka Pagoda, the stone-paved paths, and more. However, at the very end, an unexpected accident occurred. Due to the long hours of rain, the surface of the stone pavement had become extremely slippery, and just as the guest was about to enter a certain shop, the guest slipped and fell, striking the left knee and the middle finger of the left hand hard, sustaining an injury with a little bleeding. Throughout the tour that day, I had been cautioning at each spot, "The surfaces of the stone pavement and steps have become slippery because of the rain, so please be very careful," yet the guest slipped at an unexpected moment, lost balance, and fell. Avoiding the crowd, we moved to the side of the road, and I asked, "Are you all right? How are the wounds and the pain?" The guest replied, "It hurts quite a bit, but I'm okay," and although walking seemed a little difficult, the guest was able to walk back to the car without needing help. In the car, I applied first aid with the sterile tissues, adhesive bandages, and so on that I always keep on hand. I also advised, "If the pain persists, please see a doctor near the Hotel," to which the guest replied, "I'll watch it for an hour or two, and if it swells up I'll go to a doctor, but it will probably be fine." I saw the guest off at the Hotel front desk, explained the situation to the Hotel staff, and asked for the necessary assistance. The "storefront" accident that happened at the very end of the Kyoto sightseeing, which had been enjoyed even under the difficult condition of rain, turned out to be a very unfortunate event. A few days later, I sent an email inquiring about the injury and wishing a speedy recovery, but as of now there has been no reply. I can only pray that the bruised left knee does not get worse.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Nori

    Hi, everyone! I’m Norifumi Kamon, a government registered guide interpreter. Please call me “Nori”, or “Kamon-san”.
    Let me introdece myself. I was born on April 17th in 1952 in Miyazaki prefecture in Kyushu island. I used to be an English teacher of Osaka Prefectural high school. When I retired from a teacher ten years ago, I decided to get a professional guide license. I wanted to play a role of the bridge between Japanese people and the people from all over the world as a second life of mine. After two years efforts, I finally got the guide license. Since then, I have guided several handreds of foreign people mainly in Kyoto and Nara for about five years except Corona Pandemic period. Almost all the tourists were deeply impressed by the beauty of nature, traditoin, culture, and art of Japan. I can surely help you enjoy and be satisfied with the sightseeing in Japan. And I’m looking forward to seeing you soon.

    Request Booking

    Aug 10, 2026
    Paul_H
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kind and knowledgeable guide – highly recommended
    Nori communicated…

    Apr 9, 2026
    Ron_W
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We saw so much in the…
    We saw so much in the…

    Mar 24, 2026
    zackn719
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Knowledgeable guide and a great tour
    We did our private tour with…

    Oct 20, 2025
    66speech
    Highlights of Kyoto.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience with Nori. Nori exceeded our expectations with…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Nijubashi

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Nijubashi

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 @Meet up (Hotel)
    • 10:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:30 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 13:20 Lunch@Amairo
    • 14:30 @Asakusa
    • 16:30 @Nijubashi
    • 17:45 @Disband (Hotel)

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour Visiting Meiji Shrine, Senso-ji, and Shinjuku Gyoen Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, and one of them had previously lived in Asia and sometimes found English difficult to catch, but was a very gentle person, so we were able to enjoy going around together as a group. One of the guests was looking forward to collecting goshuin (shrine and temple seal stamps), and we received goshuin at Meiji Shrine, Senso-ji Temple, and Asakusa Shrine. I explained that it is proper etiquette to pay your respects first and then receive the goshuin. At Meiji Shrine, in the past you could enter through a separate entrance to receive a goshuin book with almost no waiting, but now everyone has to line up in the same queue, so it took some time. The goshuin at Senso-ji also required lining up, and lunch was crowded and took a while, so we could not keep our usual pace. We also rested for a while on a bench inside Shinjuku Gyoen, and at one point I got separated from some of the guests at Yurakucho Station. Since there were many requested destinations to begin with, the tour ran significantly over time. I was glad I had informed them in advance that an extension fee might apply if we went over the scheduled time. Recently I had been guiding with plenty of time to spare, so I reflected a great deal on the significant overrun, and I would like to review how to adjust the schedule well if delays occur during a tour.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinagawa～Harajuku180JPY
    Section 2SubwayShinjuku-gyoemmae～Asakusa260JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa～Sakuradamon210JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijubashi～Hibiya180JPY
    Section 5TrainYurakucho～Shinagawa170JPY
    Total1,000JPY

    Tour Report by Yoko

    I’m Yoko Kusumoto, a government lisenced English-speaking guide.
    I have been living in Tokyo for more than 20 years, and it’s my pleasure to show you around Tokyo. I recommend Meiji Shrine and Asakusa if you are first time in Japan. I also recommend off-the-beaton path spots like Fukagawa Fudodo and Gotokuji Temple(lucky cat temple).
    I was born and brought up in Kamakura, where the first shogun’s government was established. It will be my pleasure to introduce you my hometown as well.

    I live with my husband and one teenage son.
    I like traveling, flowers, sewing, quilting, scrapbooking, and exploring Tokyo.

    I’m looking forward to hearing from you soon.

    Request Booking

    Sep 22, 2026
    grenfell69
    Half-day tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    While visiting Tokyo we chose the Customized…

    Jun 2, 2026
    ericahT6840AD
    Awesome!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our day with Yoko was great! She took us to some…

    May 20, 2026
    CharKris17
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Walking Tour
    We did a six-hour walking tour of Tokyo with…

    May 3, 2026
    jefftK1794VZ
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fantastic day exploring Tokyo
    This was our first time visiting Tokyo and…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tochomae Station & Asakusa Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Tochomae Station & Asakusa Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 9:20 Tochomae Station
    • 9:25 Yoyogi Station
    • 9:30 Harajuku Station
    • 9:35 Meiji Shrine
    • 10:25 Takeshita Street
    • 10:45 Meiji-jingumae Station
    • 11:00 Nijubashimae Station
    • 11:10 Nijubashi
    • 11:45 Lunch @ Hotel Building
    • 13:05 Tokyo Station
    • 13:15 Akihabara Station
    • 13:45 Suehirocho Station
    • 13:55 Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Tourist Center, Nakamise, Senso-ji Temple
    • 15:00 Disband @ near Senso-ji Temple

    What Is a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, Akihabara, and Asakusa The guests were visitors from North America. Due to a flight delay, they had arrived at their hotel late the previous night, so I was concerned about their condition, but they were cheerful throughout and enjoyed the diverse character of Tokyo's many neighborhoods. At Meiji Shrine first thing in the morning, they said they felt a deeply sacred atmosphere and were very pleased. As we had a little time, I then introduced part of Takeshita Street before heading to the station. They had originally hoped to visit the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, but as it was a closed day, I introduced Nijubashi Bridge and the outer moat, and guided them to the Otemon Gate so they could visit later, before having lunch in the basement of a hotel. At Tokyo Station, I helped them reserve Shinkansen tickets. Although it was not part of the original itinerary, since we had time to spare, we decided to stop by Akihabara before Asakusa. They were amazed by the completely different streetscape. Afterward, we strolled through Asakusa, and the tour came to an end.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTochomae Station～Yoyogi Station180JPY
    Section 2TrainYoyogi Station～Harajuku Station150JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae Station～Nijubashimae Station210JPY
    Section 4TrainTokyo Station～Akihabara Station150JPY
    Section 5SubwaySuehirocho Station～Asakusa Station180JPY
    Total870JPY

    Tour Report by Lily

    Hi there! Thank you so much for hitting my page!
    I’m Yuriko, but please call me Lily!
    I’m a qualified guide and interpreter, proud to be awarded as one of the finalists of Japan guide awards 2025.

    I have conducted over 100 tours a year since March 2024, with more than 90% of my clients awarding a five-star rating.

    I love Japanese food(eating and cooking!), cultures such as traditional arts and crafts, and so much more! I’ve always explored places seeking new things and love to share them with you.

    I was born and raised in Tokyo(for over 40 years!) but used to live in the U.S. for a couple of years as a child.
    I am proud to be able to introduce the charms of Japan from multiple perspectives based on my experience of interacting with people from many different nationalities.

    I am happy to tailor an original plan or to arrange your bucket list advancing it to a better option.
    The following is my contact information:
    lilyjapanguide@gmail.com

    I’m looking forward to guiding and sharing the excitement of Japan!!

    Request Booking

    Sep 17, 2025
    785hongc
    Wonderful 6 hour Tokyo tour with Lily in September
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a…

    Sep 16, 2025
    H
    Hong_C
    A wonderful day tour of Tokyo in September
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best relaxed educational…

    Jul 18, 2025
    Venture26940872209
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lilly was an excellent guide .. lots of communication before the visit…

    Jul 1, 2025
    michaellG938KC
    Lily is the best. Highly recommended
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lily is an amazing guide and…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel (9:30) ー Sensoji Temple (9:40) ー Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple (10:50) ー Hamarikyu Gardens (11:05) ー Shiosite Lunch (12:00) ー Setagaya Gotokuji Temple (13:45) ー Shibuya (15:05) Shibuya Crossing, PARCO, Miyashita Park (15:30) (Dismissal)

    Title: What Does a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report from Asakusa to Shibuya Because the guests' hotel was very close to Senso-ji Temple, we explored Senso-ji and the surrounding Asakusa area on foot. After that, we stopped by the Asakusa tourist information center before heading to Tsukiji. As it was unseasonably hot, we skipped the planned walk around the Tsukiji outer market. After briefly visiting Tsukiji Honganji Temple, we went to the Hama-rikyu Gardens and enjoyed matcha at the tea house there. We then walked to a top-floor restaurant in the Shiodome Shiosite area and had lunch while enjoying the view of Tokyo Bay. After lunch, we went to Gotokuji Temple in Setagaya. The guests seemed to find the Setagaya Line, which runs through residential neighborhoods, quite unusual and enjoyed it very much. At Gotokuji, in addition to explaining the beckoning cat (maneki-neko), I explained that it is the family temple of the Ii clan, connecting the story to historical events such as the Sakuradamon Incident. In a complete change of pace, I then took the guests to the sixth floor of PARCO in Shibuya, where they thoroughly enjoyed Japanese pop culture.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainAsakusa～Tsukiji290JPY
    Section 2TrainShimbashi～Miyanosaka520JPY
    Section 3TrainMiyanosaka～Shibuya340JPY
    Total1,150JPY

    Tour Report by Sammy

    Name is Sakai Katsuomi, a national certificated interpreter & tour guide. I usually go by Summy. I would like to assist you in making your visit to Japan a wonderful treasure of life.I not only offer tours to famous tourist spots throught Japan but also provide guidance on experiencing traditional Japanese culture. If you interested in Japanese martial arts such as Karate, Judo, Aikido and Kendo, or if you are visiting Japan to train in these disciplines, I can assist you with making apointments at dojyos, interpretating during practice sessions, filming videos and accompany you on your sightseeing adventures in Japan.
    Of course, I can definitely assist you with regular sightseeing. This includes visiting historical and cultural sites, exploring Japanese pop culture and subculture hotospots,and even arranging anime- related activities and character-themed shopping for children. I can customize the initerary according to yourpreferences and requests.

    Request Booking

    Sep 25, 2026
    mogestrip
    Amazing tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sammy is an exceptional tour guide-lots…

    Sep 8, 2026
    sonyasW9476NJ
    Insider intro to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sam was a fantastic guide!…

    Sep 3, 2026
    Safari63080984627
    Half day Family tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We did a fantastic tour…

    Jul 13, 2026
    elizabethtW414DU
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Sammy was absolutely amazing from start to…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0930 Hotel Mimaru
    • 1010- Fushimi Inari Shrine
    • 1100- Kiyomizudera Temple
    • 1300 Lunch at Ramen Muraji
    • 1345- Nishki Market
    • 1440- Kinkakuji Temple
    • 1600- Hotel Mimaru

    What Is a Private Full-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, and Kinkaku-ji The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. For the day's plan, they requested an authentic course, which I selected as the guide, but they also mentioned they wanted to see food shops such as fish and bakery stores, so I added Nishiki Market. All of the guests were very enthusiastic about the sightseeing and enjoyed it thoroughly, and they had many conversations with the guide. One of the guests even spoke in Japanese to our driver, Mr. Imanaka. I had planned Kiyomizu-dera as the first destination, but around 9:40, Gojo-dori was already heavily congested with buses and taxis, so we went to Fushimi Inari first. Afterward, for Kiyomizu-dera, we got out of the car near a parking area close to the Yasaka Pagoda and walked there via Sannenzaka. For lunch at Mendokoro Muraji, they had the chicken black ramen and fried chicken, which they seemed to love very much, and everyone finished their meals completely. Since Kiyomizu-dera took some time, I considered ending the tour at Kinkaku-ji, but our driver, Mr. Imanaka, kindly accommodated us, and we were able to return to the Hotel with about 30 minutes over the scheduled time.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Harry

    Hello there,
    I’m Harry. This nickname comes from Harry Bosch, a character in American detective novels. I like watching films, listening to music and reading books, especially detective stories. I love meeting people from different countries and would like to help them understand Japanese culture and history. I believe that tourism can connect people all over the world and change the world into something truly peaceful. I was born in Osaka and have lived in Tokyo for more than 35 years. I am very happy to welcome tourists from all over the world. I will do my best to make your days fantastic. I look forward to seeing you soon.

    Request Booking

    Oct 8, 2025
    Denise_M
    Great tour of Kyoto
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide Harry was very knowledgeable. We learned…

    Jun 30, 2025
    Iguana74
    Customized Tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our four-hour private tour of Kyoto was excellent.…

    May 12, 2025
    Tonya_G
    Would do it again.
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Our guide, Harry, did an excellent…

    Mar 22, 2025
    Lauren_P
    We had a great time on…
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great time…

  • Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①　10:10　Meet at Candeo Hotels Osaka The Tower
    • ②　Travel
    • ③　11:30　Nijo Castle
    • ④　12:40　Nishiki Market　－Stroll and Lunch－
    • ⑤　14:10　Arashiyama Heiseiin
    • ⑥　14:25　Bamboo Grove Stroll
    • ⑦　15:10　Kameyama Park Stroll
    • ⑧　15:40　Iwatayama Monkey Park
    • ⑨　Travel
    • ⑩　17:45　Disband in front of the hotel

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour from Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. In the morning, the meeting point hotel was incorrect due to a mistake in the guest's notes. When they did not appear at the agreed time of 9:30, we exchanged emails and I quickly moved from Nihonbashi to a hotel near Yodoyabashi. I covered the fare for this stretch (subway from Shinsaibashi to Yodoyabashi) on their behalf. At the guests' request, we traveled on the outbound journey by non-reserved seats on the Shinkansen. In the first half of the tour, the guests tended to chat among themselves, but as time passed our conversation grew, and by the evening we were talking in a very friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The guests were interested in Japanese history, and when I explained topics such as the relationship between the Emperor and the Shogun, and how the role of the Emperor has changed throughout recorded history and where it stands today, comparing it with places such as Britain, they listened intently and asked many questions. In the end, it was a very enjoyable day.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinsaibashi～Yodoyabashi190JPY
    Section 2TrainYodoyabashi～Shin-Osaka240JPY
    Section 3TrainShin-Osaka～Kyoto1,450JPY
    Section 4TrainShiyakusho-mae～Nijo220JPY
    Section 5TrainNijo～Saga-Arashiyama200JPY
    Section 6TrainArashiyama～Umeda Hankyu410JPY
    Section 7TrainUmeda～Yodoyabashi190JPY
    Total2,900JPY

    Tour Report by Kazu

    Hello, this is Kazu Akiyama, your tour guide. Nice to meet you and welcome to Japan. Thank you for joining me on the tour. Now I am a retired salaried worker, living in Osaka. I have been very much interested in not only learning Japanese history, culture, religion myself, but also talking about them (sometimes going off topics) in English with tourists from all over the world as well. I am so excited being with you as your guide on coming day! I am very much looking forward to you enjoying with me visiting the must-see places and some of the hidden gems. See you soon. Thank you – Kazu Akiyama

    Request Booking

    Jul 29, 2026
    James_G
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great guide and very…
    Great guide and very knowledgeable.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    peterhR6472GA
    Kyoto highlights with Kazu.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with Kazu…

    Jul 12, 2026
    cgalvez73
    Fantastic tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our guide in Kyoto was Kazu.…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Winni_H
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Highly recommended when in Kyoto
    Our tour guide…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:00 Hotel Meet　7:35 Fushimi Inari　9:30 Kinkaku-ji　11:10 Nijo Castle　12:20 Gion Area　13:30 Tour Ends

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Kinkaku-ji, and Nijo Castle The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. Although this was not a honeymoon trip, they were very close and got along wonderfully. We met at the Hotel at 7:00. Fushimi Inari just after 7:30 was uncrowded, so the guests were able to take photos of just themselves quite freely. At Inari Station, the JR train was delayed by more than 20 minutes, which made the rest of the schedule tight. The bus to Kinkaku-ji was not crowded. Inside Kinkaku-ji, the number of school excursion students was increasing. At Nijo Castle, there was a group of about 30 people led by a guide ahead of us, and since the guide kept stopping to give long explanations, the entire group would come to a halt, causing congestion. Because of our time constraints, I ended up explaining from outside that group. A staff member told us to move to the inside, but that was difficult. Since the group had a guide with a microphone and the guests had earphones, I wished they could have been guided concisely while walking without stopping. The weather had some rain from the morning, but it did not get too bad — in fact, it was pleasantly cool. We took photos in front of the Ninomaru Palace at Nijo Castle.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKiyomizu-Gojo～Fushimi Inari220JPY
    Section 2TrainInari～Enmachi200JPY
    Section 3Free PassEnmachi～Kinkakuji-michi1,100JPY
    Section 4Free PassKinkakuji-michi～Nishioji-Oike0JPY
    Section 5Free PassNishioji-Oike～Nijojo-mae0JPY
    Section 6Free PassNijojo-mae～Higashiyama0JPY
    Section 7Free PassHigashiyama-Sanjo～Gion0JPY
    Total1,520JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

    Request Booking

    Sep 28, 2026
    Miguel_E
    Amazing Service
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful time with Kazuo.…

    Sep 27, 2026
    T
    TrailBlazer47194
    Kazuo Sumi is a great guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide Kazuo Sumi…

    Sep 1, 2026
    Steve6172014
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 7, 2026
    Pascale_Q
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Very good private tour of Kyoto with Kazuo
    We had…