Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Kappabashi & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Kappabashi & Meiji Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 9:40 Asakusa, Sensoji Temple
    • 10:30 Kappabashi
    • 11:30 Shibuya
    • 12:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 13:00 Tour ends at Harajuku

    What's a Private Family Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Shibuya, and Meiji Shrine The guests were a group visiting from Europe. They had come to Japan for a family trip. Based on their prior requests made through an agent, we started the tour at Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. Despite it being morning, they were surprised by the rising temperature and the large crowds, but they seemed to enjoy the traditional Japanese atmosphere, and everyone happily tried drawing "omikuji" fortunes. We then received a sudden request from one of the guests to buy a kitchen knife, so we headed to Kappabashi, where they purchased a favorite knife and seemed very satisfied. At the Shibuya crossing, the guests experienced a crowded intersection unlike anything seen in Europe. Afterward, we went to Meiji Shrine, where I explained Shinto, its influence on Japanese culture, and the differences between shrines and temples. Since they would be traveling to Hakone and various places in the Kansai region after Tokyo, they were pleased to gain this background knowledge in advance. Some of the guests appeared to have studied Japan well beforehand, actively asking questions and comparing the imperial families of Japan and Europe, which made for lively conversation. Finally, since they wanted to enjoy shopping in Harajuku, we ended the tour at this point.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainIidabashi~Asakusabashi200JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusabashi~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 3TrainTawaramachi (Tokyo)~Shibuya260JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya~Kita-sando180JPY
    Total820JPY

    Hello and welcome to Tokyo!

    I have been working for business with American companies for many years. I have many experiences guiding customers from around the world in Japan and taking Japanese customers to the USA and Europe.

    I now have a national license as a guiding interpreter, and I want to introduce the unique gigantic city of Tokyo and the traditional Japanese culture, which is not shown in the guidebooks, to people worldwide who are interested in it. In addition, I want to introduce various Japanese foods you can enjoy only in Japan.
    Unique experiences such as the Sumo Training Viewing and Tea Ceremony are optionally available.
    Depending on your preference and itinerary, I can guide you in Tokyo, Kamakura, and Hakone so that you can enjoy your time in Japan.

    Jul 26, 2026
    Kevin_B
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Highly recommend this tour for first time…

    Jun 22, 2026
    Ashish_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best Tour for a Short Visit
    Atsushi-san was an incredibly well-researched and…

    May 27, 2026
    jackie m
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Our guide was really interesting and had…

    Apr 9, 2026
    Lindsey_W
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Atsushi, was…
    Our guide, Atsushi, was great! He met…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo Bridge sightseeing & Disperse at the hotel

    Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo Bridge sightseeing & Disperse at the hotel

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00     Meet the guests at the hotel
    • 09:20~09:25 Shinkyo Bridge sightseeing
    • 09:35~11:35 Toshogu Shrine sightseeing
    • 11:45~12:45 Lunch
    • 12:55~13:35 Rinnoji Temple sightseeing
    • 13:35~13:55 Taiyuin sightseeing
    • Walk to Kanmangafuchi Abyss
    • 14:20~14:40 Kanmangafuchi Abyss sightseeing
    • Walk to the hotel
    • 15:00    Disperse at the hotel

    What Is a Private Nikko Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Toshogu Shrine and Kanmangafuchi The guests were a group who wished to visit Japanese shrines and temples centered on Toshogu Shrine, and also wanted to see Kanmangafuchi Abyss. They expressed a desire to learn about Tokugawa Ieyasu, as well as more broadly about Japanese culture and history, and even about religions such as Shinto and Buddhism. For this reason, I guided them to the main relevant sights and explained things in relatively detail. The guests were people who wanted to learn deeply about Japan from the very beginning, so they listened to my explanations with great enthusiasm. Toshogu Shrine truly seemed to captivate them, and they appeared very moved. The Jizo statues at Kanmangafuchi Abyss are also rare treasures rarely seen overseas, so they viewed them with great interest. For lunch, at my suggestion, they enjoyed a yuba (tofu skin) set meal at a purely traditional Japanese-style restaurant. The day seemed to pass in the blink of an eye, and I believe the guests were fully satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTobu Nikko Station~Yasukawacho600JPY
    Section 2Free PassYasukawacho~JR Nikko Station0JPY
    Total600JPY

    I am a licensed guide based in the Nikko area of Tochigi Prefecture, with a passion for sharing the depth and beauty of this remarkable region.
    In particular, I take great pride in introducing the magnificent World Heritage area, home to Toshogu Shrine, Futarasan Shrine, Rinnoji Temple, and the iconic Shinkyo Bridge. The rich history, spiritual atmosphere, and masterful craftsmanship found there are truly inspiring.
    But Nikko has much more to offer beyond the World Heritage zone. The region is uniquely spread across three different elevation zones: the central town area, the Lake Chuzenji area at higher altitude, and the remote Yumoto Onsen area in the mountains. Each of these areas offers a different charm—from historic sites and sacred spaces to scenic lakes, waterfalls, and hot springs.
    However, due to the area’s wide geography, limited public transit options, and seasonal congestion, even navigating efficiently within a single area can be challenging without local knowledge.
    That’s why local expertise is essential. With in-depth knowledge of Nikko’s layout, transportation network, and crowd patterns, I help my guests make the most of their time, while focusing on the area that suits their interests best.
    I don’t just recite what’s written in guidebooks—I offer deeper insights rooted in Japanese history, religion, and culture. From the legacy of Tokugawa Ieyasu to the spiritual symbolism behind shrine architecture, I aim to provide meaningful and memorable experiences.
    If you’re looking to discover the real Nikko, from its iconic landmarks to hidden gems, I’d be honored to guide you.

    Jul 27, 2026
    Onno_P2000
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Very interesting and joyful day trip with Taka
    We…

    Jun 30, 2026
    Rolando_A
    Viator review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A fantastic day!
    We had an amazing day. Our guide was Taka.…

    Jun 25, 2026
    N8851CTrebeccaf
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We cannot recommend Taka highly…

    Jun 21, 2026
    kevin L
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing personal tour where you get to choose or have a…

  • Tokyo: Hyatt Regency & Akihabara

    Tokyo: Hyatt Regency & Akihabara

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hyatt Regency
    • 9:30 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 10:50 Sensoji Temple
    • 11:30 Lunch @ Gyutan no Lemon
    • 13:10 Meiji Shrine
    • 14:30 Akihabara
    • 14:45 Dismissal @ Radio Kaikan

    Title: What's a Private Car Tour of Tokyo Like With a Licensed Guide? A Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, and Akihabara The guests were a group visiting from North America, on a private car tour. On the first day, they explored Shibuya, Harajuku, and other areas using the subway. Their trip was part of a longer journey, continuing on to Kyoto, Osaka, and then other destinations abroad. The plan was to return to the hotel at the end, but since one of the guests wanted to visit a bouldering gym in Akihabara after the tour, we adjusted the itinerary to finish in Akihabara. At Tsukiji, they enjoyed strawberry daifuku, wagyu, tuna sushi, tamagoyaki, onigiri, and other foods, and bought several folding umbrellas as souvenirs. At Senso-ji Temple, they drew omikuji fortunes, resulting in two "great blessing," two "blessing," and three "curse." Since it was a Saturday and there were several of them, I recommended making a lunch reservation, and we went to a beef tongue restaurant that one of the guests had found on social media. One of the guests was a smoker and located a smoking area on their own after lunch. It was not their first time in Japan, and although Meiji Shrine was a revisit, they appreciated its calm atmosphere within the forest. The road back to Akihabara was congested, but we arrived within the expected time. Perhaps because it was the first day of a three-day holiday weekend, there was a line to enter Radio Kaikan, and the interior was more crowded than usual. We visited several shops, and although 15 minutes remained, the guests said that since the rest was just shopping, we could finish there, and we parted ways.

    Hello!! I’m Takako. Thank you for seeing my page. I’ve been showing guests around Tokyo, Yokohama and Kamakura for over six years. There are various things from historic sites, shrines and temples to cultural spots, good restaurants and anime shops in Japan.
    I love watching sumo wrestling, Japanese traditional sport.
    My favorite place is Tsukiji food market. It’s really exciting and you can enjoy a variety of delicious foods.
    I also like visiting Japanese gardens such as Hama-rikyu Gardens and Rikugien Gardens.
    Please let me know what interests you.
    I would be happy to make a suitable tour for you and help you stay in Japan comfortably.
    Looking forward to meeting you!!

    Jul 21, 2026
    Z222TCshannonr
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    6 hour guided tour of Tokyo
    Our wonderful guide,…

    Jul 9, 2026
    cronima2
    Perfectly guided day
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing day with…

    Jul 3, 2026
    johnoD792VT
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely Guide!
    Takako was an amazing guide! She gave strong insights on…

    Jul 3, 2026
    71nidhim
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Takako was extremely knowledgeable and showed us all the main…

  • Tokyo: Asakusa→Suehirocho & Akihabara→Harajuku

    Tokyo: Asakusa→Suehirocho & Akihabara→Harajuku

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00-10:40 Meet at the hotel lobby. Confirm the itinerary. Purchase a Welcome SUICA at Ueno Station. Purchase heatwave protection items.
    • 10:40-11:10 Ueno→Asakusa. Travel while teaching how to use the subway and JR.
    • 11:10-13:15 Asakusa. Stroll from Azuma Bridge to the Senso-ji Temple grounds.
    • 13:15-13:45 Asakusa→Suehirocho
    • 13:45-15:30 Stroll along Akihabara Chuo-dori. Lunch at a maid cafe.
    • 15:30-16:00 Akihabara→Harajuku
    • 16:00-16:15 Stroll along Takeshita Street. After guiding around the area and explaining the way home, disband at Harajuku.

    What Is a Private Family Tour of Tokyo Like in French? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, a Maid Cafe, and Harajuku This was a private guided tour conducted in French for a group visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. Since some of the guests communicated mainly in French while others used mainly English, I guided primarily in French, occasionally mixing in English. Based on the interviews conducted through prior email correspondence, I researched the group's makeup and interests, and proposed a program designed to keep the group entertained. The group had only arrived in Japan around midday the previous day, and due to the long-distance travel, jet lag, and the intense summer heat, some of the guests appeared tired and restless from the morning. As they were planning to stay for about a week, I shared various tips for coping with the heat and had them purchase one handheld cooling fan to try out before we began the tour in earnest. At Senso-ji Temple, I guided the group to a shop specializing in lucky cat (maneki-neko) goods and treated them to shaved ice, doing my best to lift the group's spirits. I had made a reservation at a maid cafe, and when I guided the group there, their eyes lit up with delight, and the rest of the group happily watched and enjoyed the experience as well. In Harajuku, we walked briefly along Takeshita Street and confirmed their route back. After that, the guests enjoyed the rest of the day on their own.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainUeno~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa~Suehirocho (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 3TrainAkihabara~Harajuku210JPY
    Total570JPY

    Hello, Bonjour, Buongiorno!

    I’m Kei, Keisuke YAMAMOTO, japanese freelance Government-licensed guide and interpreter in French and in English, speaking Italian as well. Having accompanied guests to all over Japan by now with whole 47 prefectures, all year round. 11 years and over 1500 days of experience as a professional guide since 2015, after 24 years of work at French Tourist Board in Tokyo in charge of promotion and marketing.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Je suis Kei, Keisuke YAMAMOTO, guide-interprète indépendant japonais, agréé par le gouvernement en langues française et anglaise, parlant également italien. Ayant accompagné des clients dans tout le Japon avec se 47 départements, toute l’année. 11 ans et plus de 1500 jours d’expérience en tant que guide professionel depuis 2015, après 24 ans de travail à l’Office de Tourisme Français à Tokyo en charge de la promotion et du marketing.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Sono Kei, Keisuke YAMAMOTO, un guida-interprete indipendente giappone e approvato dal governo per le lingue francese e inglese, parlo italiano anche. Avo accompagno i clienti in tutto il Giappone, con sue 47 province, tutto l’anno. 10 anni e piu di 1500 journi di esperienza come guida professionista dal 2015, dopo 24 anni di lavoro presso l’Ufficio del Turismo francese a Tokyo come responsabile della promozione e del marketing.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Having lived mostly in Kawasaki city attached to Tokyo in the West, I have a good knowledge and profound experience of Tokyo and its surrounding areas such as Mount Fuji, Hakone and Kamakura or Nikko.
    A history lover and food lover, qualified as JSA Wine Expert, I’d like to help you choosing good restaurants and good drinks including Sake.
    Let’s go together for a delightful discovery in Japan.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Ayant vécu principalement dans la ville de Kawasaki rattachée à Tokyo à l’Ouest, j’ai une bonne connaissance et une profonde expérience de Tokyo et de ses environs comme le Mont Fuji, Hakone et Kamakura ou Nikko.
    Passionné d’histoire et de gastronomie, diplômé JSA Wine Expert, j’aimerais vous aider à choisir de bons restaurants et de bonnes boissons dont le Saké.
    Partons ensemble pour une délicieuse découverte du Japon.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Avendo vissuto principalmente nella città di Kawasaki, vicina a Tokyo, ho una buona conoscenza e una profonda esperienza di Tokyo e dei suoi dintorni, come il Monte Fuji, Hakone e Kamakura o Nikko.
    Appassionato di storia e gastronomia, laureato Wine Expert presso la JSA, vorrei aiutarvi a scegliere buoni ristoranti e buoni bevande, tra cui il sakè.
    Partiamo insieme per una deliziosa scoperta del Giappone.

    Jun 5, 2025
    Jenan_A
    Lovely experience but expensive
    Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    What a lovely…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0900 Meet in front of 7-Eleven Higashi-Shinjuku store
    • 0930 Shibuya Hachiko Statue Scramble Crossing
    • 1005 Harajuku Takeshita Street Meiji Shrine visit
    • 1235 Imperial Palace Outer Garden Tatsumi Yagura Gyoko-dori Marunouchi Building pine piles Tokyo Station
    • 1355 Asakusa Kaminarimon Nakamise Senso-ji Temple Asakusa Shrine
    • 1515 Since there is a reservation for Tokyo Skytree at 1700, escort them to Solamachi and disband

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America who had arrived for their first trip to Japan the previous night. They seemed to have some acquaintances here, who had picked them up at the airport the night before and taken them to Shibuya after they checked in. Because it was late, they had returned without seeing much. Their accommodation was an Airbnb, and since the building could not be identified, we met at a nearby convenience store instead. Thunderstorms were forecast for the day, so I was concerned, but although there was a little rain at our first stop in Shibuya, the rest of the itinerary only had the sound of thunder without any actual rain. They had eaten a good breakfast, so they only had a soft serve ice cream at the Forest Terrace of Meiji Jingu and a melon bread at Nakamise, but since there was time before their 17:00 Skytree reservation, they planned to eat at Solamachi. From the next day they would be exploring on their own, so I handed them a Tokyo Travel Guide and metro/JR route maps, and explained the transportation network and other sightseeing spots. One of the guests took an interest in the Mipig Cafe on Takeshita Street and said they would return. They also wanted to visit Gotokuji, so I explained the route from Higashi-Shinjuku to Meiji-jingumae to Gotokuji. After three days of sightseeing in Tokyo, they were on a 20-day summer holiday trip that also included the Kansai area, Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Sapporo, and a climb of Mount Fuji. They also mentioned that they would visit HISUI Tokyo, which I had introduced to them.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Shinjuku~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya~Harajuku160JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 4TrainTokyo~Kanda (Tokyo)160JPY
    Section 5SubwayKanda (Tokyo)~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 6TrainAsakusa~Tokyo Skytree160JPY
    Total1,050JPY

    I had worked in the international business scene for over 40 years and traveled to North America and European countries over 1000 days.
    After I retired from the business, I traveled to most of the major sightseeing spots in all 47 prefectures in Japan.

    My guide is starting from a brief history of the site where I am going to guide. I usually add a briefing about Japanese culture based on religions, such as Shinto Shrine and Buddhist temples. A geographic background behind the history is also important.
    My course includes 4 to 5 (in 6 hours) sites from the following depending on where I will pick the guests up;
    – Senso ji Temple
    – Kappabashi Kitchenware Market
    – Tokyo Skytree
    – Ueno Park
    – Nezu Shrine
    – Imperial Palace outer park
    – Tokyo Central Station, Marunouchi historic district
    – Tsukiji Fish Market
    – Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    – Ginza
    – Odaiba
    – Hama Rikyu Garden
    – Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
    – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
    – Roppongi
    – Meiji Shrine
    – Harajuku & Takeshita Street
    – Shibuya
    – and Any of your interest.

    I am happy to introduce Japanese Manga/Anime cultures such as Akihabara, Nakano Broadway and Ghibli related sites.
    Travelling along the JR central line where guests can stopover at major animation studios (it is not accepted to visit the inside). The majority of animation studios such as TMS Entertainment, SUNRISE, A1 Pictures etc. are located in this area. Suginami Animation museum, Studio Ghibli and Ghibli Museum are also located.
    Guests can feel old houses in the Spirited Away scene in the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.

    I can also provide a pilgrimage to the sacred place (shooting location) for the Shinkai Makoto animation movies such as Your name, Weathering with you, and Suzume.

    Another interesting feature is to visit authentic Japanese style pub meals such as Yakitori, Karaage, and Sushi etc.
    Asakusa Hoppy Street, Ameyoko Street, Yurakucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku Golden gai, Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho are nice to visit.

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

    In addition to the above, I am available in the neighboring cities.

    Kawagoe is an old town developed in the 17th century. It has very close relationship with the Edo central government. Kawagoe castle ruins, Kitain temple and 500 Buddha statues will welcome the guests.
    These areas are renovated and provide an old days atmosphere.
    Japanese style sweets food stands will fascinate the guests.
    Kawagoe is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    Kamakura is the first Samurai worriers government established in the late 12th century.
    The Buddhism are introduced to Japan in the 6th century, and flourished at Nara and Kyoto later. A newer Buddhism sect such as Zen has well developed at Kamakura area.
    Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Gigantic Buddha statue at Kotokuin Temple and the flower temple Hasedera Temple are must-see.
    Kamakura is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    I am also happy to develop any other site the guests have interest.

    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

    Jun 26, 2026
    ann r
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Educational with kind, generous guide
    My teenage sons and I learned…

    Jun 14, 2026
    141yunb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
    We…

    May 18, 2026
    B
    Beth56646
    Great tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Ted and I agreed upon what we would see…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari & Nishiki Market

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari & Nishiki Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:30 Meet at MIMARU Shijo WEST
    • 8:10 Fushimi Inari
    • 9:45 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 11:00 Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka
    • 11:30 Gion
    • 11:50 Lunch
    • 13:00 Nishiki Market
    • 13:30 End at Daimaru

    What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like During Gion Matsuri? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. It was the day of the Gion Matsuri front festival and their hotel was near Shijo, so we viewed some of the festival floats before heading to Fushimi Inari. As it was 37 degrees, I lent out a portable fan and we proceeded with the tour while taking breaks as needed. One of the guests interpreted my English explanations into their own language for the rest of the group. At Shijo Kawaramachi, I guided them to a Snoopy shop that they enjoyed. They also enjoyed shopping at Ninenzaka and Nishiki Market.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShijo (Kyoto Municipal)~Kyoto220JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Total370JPY

    Hi I am Kunihiro ARAKAWA, National government licensed tour guide.
    Please call me first name Kuni.
    My original city is Nagoya, but I lived in Tokyo for 20 years,
    and also lived in London and Paris for work.
    Now I live in Kyoto city. I moved here because I love Kyoto.
    I like taking photos and also sell my own photos on website.
    I’d love to take memorable photos for you at great photo spots.
    I also like history and gourmet food.
    I’d love to introduce some local recommendations.
    I’ll ask your request and create your special tour.
    Please feel free to let us know your thoughts.
    Looking forward to meeting you !

    Kuni

    Jul 18, 2026
    M2443VKandrewl
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Excellent guide and support
    Kuni-san was an excellent guide and…

    Jun 9, 2026
    Gail M
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Kyoto Sights; Private Guide & Driver
    The…

    Jun 5, 2026
    Rick_S
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    An afternoon in Kyoto
    We had a great time exploring Kyoto. Our…

    May 16, 2026
    sydneybA4751LA
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 private tour of Kyoto!
    Kuni was amazing as our private tour…

  • Kyoto: THE BLOSSOM KYOTO & Nishiki Market by taxi

    Kyoto: THE BLOSSOM KYOTO & Nishiki Market by taxi

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 THE BLOSSOM KYOTO
    • 09:30 Otagi Nenbutsuji (1000) by taxi
    • Hiranoya Tea break
    • 11:20 Gioji (500) by walking
    • 11:50 Nison-in (500) by walking
    • 12:50 Bamboo Path by walking
    • 13:00 Tenryuji (500) by walking
    • Arashiyama
    • ARABICA Tea break
    • 14:30 Nishiki Market by taxi
    • End of the tour

    What Is a Private Kyoto Arashiyama and Sagano Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They came to Kyoto after arriving in Osaka via Asia. Through the travel agency, the only stated request I had received was a bamboo grove, and since the tour was titled Arashiyama and Sagano, I planned a route walking down from Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple into the Arashiyama area. When we met, I confirmed the details of the itinerary, but it seemed they had not researched it in much depth. I had initially set the final destination as the Monkey Park, but as it was an extremely hot day and they showed signs of tiredness from walking, after Tenryu-ji Temple I asked whether they would like to go to the Monkey Park or to Nishiki Market in the central area, and they chose Nishiki Market, so we finished at the entrance to Nishiki Market. Since we started early, I asked whether they would like to have lunch during the tour, but they said they would not, so we skipped lunch. One of the guests was collecting goshuin (temple seal stamps), so we obtained four during the tour.

    I’m Ryoichi Kazuma and my nickname is “Kazz”. I live in Kyotanabe city next to Kyoto city. I want guests to enjoy Kyoto by seeing and experiencing not only from outside but also from inside. I offer various information from daily matters to traditional cultures. Most destinations in Kyoto are located on the eastern side or the western side. As I want to guide guests to as many destinations as possible, I make an efficient itinerary and recommend a taxi use to save time. Additionally, I take pictures at various spots and finally share the link to my storage. By doing so, guests can download their favorite pictures from my storage. Please enjoy Kyoto night and day!

    Jul 14, 2026
    T6871WWricharde
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kazz gave a great one on one 8 hour custom tour…

    Jun 5, 2026
    mateoe216
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Would book again
    The tour with Kazuma-san was absolutely great. As someone…

    May 27, 2026
    Leah_D
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely recommend!
    I definitely recommend seeing some of the sights with a…

    May 26, 2026
    sheilacL3330KS
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very enthusiastic and knowledgable guide. Much appreciated
    Kazz was an excellent guide…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Ginza Nissan Crossing Cafe

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Ginza Nissan Crossing Cafe

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 10:25 Oedo Line Yoyogi Station (Suica malfunction)
    • 10:50 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:40 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 13:00 Shibuya Crossing
    • 13:50 Asakusa Lunch @ Gonpachi
    • 14:40 Senso-ji Temple
    • 16:30 Ginza Nissan Crossing Cafe

    What's a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, Shibuya, and Asakusa The guests were a very friendly group visiting from North America. Everyone had downloaded Suica, but there was a small incident because one of the guests had exited the Oedo Line the previous day without tapping out, so the card could not be used at Shinjuku Station. We got off at JR Yoyogi Station and had the previous day's fare deducted at the Oedo Line Yoyogi Station. They commented that Japan's transportation system is convenient but complex. After Meiji Shrine, we did some shopping on Takeshita Street and then headed to Shibuya and Asakusa. Since they had requested yakitori, we had lunch at a yakitori restaurant and then visited Nakamise and Senso-ji Temple, where they shopped and took photos and had a wonderful time. As they had a dinner reservation in Ginza, I helped them order a photo-print cafe latte at a cafe and we said goodbye. There was a small incident, but it was an enjoyable tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Yoyogi160JPY
    Section 2TrainYoyogi~Harajuku160JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku~Shibuya160JPY
    Section 4SubwayShibuya~Asakusa260JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa~Ginza210JPY
    Total950JPY

    Hello,
    I’m Rumi.Welcome to Japan!!
    I’m a government-licensed guide in the Tokyo area.
    I’m so excited to have a chance to show you my favorite places in Tokyo.
    Tokyo is a fantastic city with many aspects like history,culture and food.
    What interests you about Tokyo?
    What kind of Japanese food would you like to try?
    I’ll take you to various places according to your request.
    My favorite spot is Meiji Shrine.
    It’s so peaceful that I’m sure you like it.
    I really like to talk with foreigners about various topics.So, I love my job.
    I look forward to meeting and guiding you soon.

    Jun 29, 2026
    898clausw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Really helpfull guide
    Extremely helpfull to have a friendly and competent guide…

    Jun 27, 2026
    sallypO7128PM
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo- family with older teens
    My family had an excellent…

    Jun 15, 2026
    Scott P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Terrific Tour and Guide
    We had an incredible day! Rumi was…

    Jun 12, 2026
    Tonya O
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Rumi is a great guide!
    Rumi was a wonderful guide. She…

  • Kyoto: Sanjusangendo & Ginkakuji Temple

    Kyoto: Sanjusangendo & Ginkakuji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Nazuna Kyoto Nishi Honganji
    • (Departure at 9:20 due to guest's convenience)
    • 9:30 Sanjusangendo
    • 10:45 Ryoanji Temple
    • 11:.30 Kinkakuji Temple
    • 12:20 Lunch at Gontaro Kinkakuji Branch
    • 13:30 Ginkakuji Temple
    • 15:00 Disband at Nazuna Kyoto Nishi Honganji

    Can You Do a Private Kyoto Day Tour During Gion Matsuri? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. Some of the guests had previously lived in Matsumoto City, and on this trip they visited Tokyo, Matsumoto, and Kanazawa. Because it was during the Yoiyama period before the main Gion Matsuri procession, the other sightseeing spots were actually less crowded, which worked out well. The guests seemed very interested in the Buddhist statues at Sanjusangendo and in a memorial service that happened to be taking place there. At Ryoanji, they took their time to fully enjoy the dry landscape garden. Kinkakuji was also uncrowded, making it a great spot for photos, and the guests were delighted to be able to take as many pictures as they liked. The garden at Ginkakuji was also relatively quiet, allowing everyone to enjoy it at a leisurely pace. The temperature in Kyoto today rose to 38 degrees, and the guests understandably seemed quite tired by the end.

    Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

    Jul 25, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Half-day with private guide in Kyoto
    We spent half a day…

    Jul 24, 2026
    J6711TVnancyb
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Family Fun Day in Kyoto with young children
    Kaeko Tanigawa was fantastic at helping us create…

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

    Jul 12, 2026
    johnkE8649IH
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Kyoto Day Tour
    We had a wonderful experience touring Kyoto…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Kiyosumi Garden & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Kiyosumi Garden & Meiji Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:40 Meet up with guests at the hotel.
    • 11:10 Kiyosumi Garden
    • 12:20 Tokyo Skytree Town, Tokyo Solamachi (shopping)
    • 13:00 Asakusa, lunch, Culture Tourism Center, Kaminarimon, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple
    • 15:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:40 Harajuku, Takeshita Street (shopping)
    • 16:30 Shibuya Station area, Hachiko Statue, Scramble Crossing
    • 17:00 Tour ends

    Title: What Does a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kiyosumi Garden, Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya At 10:30 I waited at the hotel but could not find the guests, and it turned out they were staying at a different hotel with a similar name that had "Premium" added to it, so I quickly headed to the other hotel and met up with them. We traveled by subway to Kiyosumi Garden and strolled through the grounds. The guests were deeply impressed by the magnificent Japanese garden set in the middle of the city. On the way, we stopped at the Studio Ghibli shop at Oshiage Station and did some shopping. After that, we moved to Asakusa and had chicken katsu for lunch at a restaurant, which the guests thoroughly enjoyed and were very pleased with. After lunch, at the culture and tourism center, I explained the origins of Asakusa and the surrounding buildings, and we walked from Kaminarimon through the Nakamise shopping street. Despite the very high temperature and humidity that made walking difficult, the guests were impressed by the traditional shops and enjoyed strolling around, even trying their luck with omikuji fortune slips. After paying our respects at the main hall, we headed by subway to Meiji Shrine, and along the way we talked about Japanese culture and other topics. At Meiji Shrine, as we walked along the approach, I explained the great torii gate, the display of sake barrels, and the masugata, and we paid our respects at the main shrine. Afterward, the guests enjoyed shopping as we walked around the area in front of Harajuku Station and along Takeshita Street. Finally, we traveled by subway to Shibuya, took photos at the Hachiko statue and the scramble crossing, and then concluded the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayDaimon (Tokyo)~Kiyosumi-shirakawa220JPY
    Section 2SubwayKiyosumi-shirakawa~Oshiage180JPY
    Section 3SubwayOshiage~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa~Meiji-jingumae260JPY
    Section 5SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya180JPY
    Total1,020JPY

    I am a certified guide-interpreter based in Tokyo.
    I was born and raised in Tokyo, so I am familiar with Tokyo and its surrounding areas. Please leave anything related to the Tokyo area to me.
    Tokyo is not only full of Japanese charm but also has many unique aspects.
    The always-bustling Tsukiji Outer Market conveys Japan’s food culture.
    Asakusa conveys Japanese traditions and culture through old temples, shrines and long-established stores.
    Shibuya spreads Japanese pop culture.
    You can immerse yourself in history and culture in the quiet natural surroundings such as the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace or Meiji Shrine.
    Tokyo is a treasure trove of attractions for travelers. Please come and experience the wonderful Tokyo with me.

    Jul 8, 2026
    Maria H
    Tokyo an amazing city
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    First time in this…

    Jul 4, 2026
    davidsM6670MT
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent professional and attentive Tokyo Tour
    Shigeru was extremely professional, knowledgeable and…

    Jun 14, 2026
    Q3961PBsaraf
    History, Culture and Local Insight
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful half-day tour of…

    Jun 7, 2026
    abhinavg948
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Shigeru is an outstanding guide for an outstanding Tokyo tour
    Shigeru is…