Category: Uncategorized

  • Okinawa: Shuri Castle 11:00 & Naminoue Shrine 15:00

    Okinawa: Shuri Castle 11:00 & Naminoue Shrine 15:00

    Okinawa Battlefields & Peace Memorial Tour, Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel, travel to Shuri Castle (Monorail Asahibashi Station ⇒ Shuri Station) 『Guide transportation fee JPY600』
    • 10:00 Shuri Castle 11:00
    • 11:20 Okinawa soba lunch 12:00 Travel to Tamaudun (on foot)
    • 12:15 Tamaudun 13:00 Travel to Shikinaen (Taxi JPY1400)
    • 13:15 Shikinaen 14:00 Travel to Monorail Shuri Station (Taxi JPY900) 『Guide transportation fee JPY575』(2300 yen) ÷ 4 =575 yen
    • 14:08 Travel by monorail, Shuri Station ⇒ Asahibashi Station 14:26 『Guide transportation fee JPY600』
    • 14:30 Travel from Asahibashi Station to Naminoue Shrine (on foot)
    • 14:45 Naminoue Shrine 15:00
    • 15:15 On the route back to the hotel from Naminoue Shrine, accompany the customer to a place where they can easily find their way back, then part ways

    Title: What Is a Private Okinawa History and Culture Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report from Shuri Castle From the moment I met the guests and throughout the monorail ride and at each site we visited, they were very satisfied with the discussions about Okinawan history and culture, which were their main interests. For lunch, they had requested noodles, rice dishes, and local cuisine, so I guided them to a popular "Okinawa soba" restaurant within walking distance of Shuri Castle. As you can see from the photo, it is a hidden-gem restaurant located in a residential area despite being near a tourist site, and it does not usually take reservations. Thanks to arriving before noon, we were seated at a corner table for four in a calm space decorated with Okinawan yachimun pottery, where the guests could rest and enjoy their lunch during a very hot day of walking, which they were also very pleased with. The guests also appreciated the recommendations for nearby dining options. I received a 5-star review and consent to post photos, and I could sense their high level of satisfaction.

    Click here for more details: Okinawa Battlefields & Peace Memorial Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainAsahibashi Station～Shuri Station600JPY
    Section 2TrainShuri Station～Asahibashi Station600JPY
    Total1,200JPY

    Tour Report by Kumiko

    I have been guiding in Okinawa since 2008! I love guiding visitors around Okinawa because I have been interested in a unique history and culture of Okinawa, which are very different from those of mainland Japan. Also how can I resist introducing tourists to amazing natural wonders of Okinawa including lush green subtropical rain forest, unbelievably clear beautiful sea and underwater world, and heavenly beautiful starry sky?

    I love the peace-loving spirit of Okinawa. Okinawa is the birthplace of karate. I take karate lessons twice a week as I have been impressed by the karate spirit: “the spirit focusing not on winning, but rather on not losing; of not attacking, but rather defending life; and the continual training of the self to achieve this. ” In order to satisfy you with a great experience about Okinawa Karate and Okinawa Kobudo, I go to one of the most famous traditional Okinawa Kobudo dojos “Bunbukan”. I am a black belt holder (2nd dan) for karate and a black belt holder (2nd dan) for kobudo. I can arrange visits or experience lessons to these dojos for you!

    While I am not working, I enjoy outdoors and try to go to the gym as much as possible to take classes (boxercise, dance, and muscle-building). I like training my body and having fun with everybody in the classes as well as I feel refreshed after that and feel recharged for work the next day. Also I love joining a study tour led by a university professor, a staff member from the culture section of board of education of local municipalities, or a curator of a museum. For a history-loving person like me, it is always interesting to know more deeply about the history of Okinawa. I am extremely energetic and have been researching many nice places for you to dine in.

    I can make your stay in Okinawa a memorable one, hoping you will become a big fan of Okinawa as well!dummy

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    Apr 23, 2026
    maxmU8561BR
    Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Naha Private Tour Licensed Guide＆ Vehicle
    Ein schöner Tag in Naha
    Es war ein schöner Tag mit…

    Aug 1, 2025
    michelepL115IL
    This is a great way to experience okinawa….such a beautiful island
    Tripadvisor review: Naha 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed…

    May 26, 2025
    Climber36185086226
    We loved our tour!
    Tripadvisor review: Naha 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Kumiko, was wonderful,…

    Nov 12, 2024
    htaxeras
    Perfect quick day in Naha!
    Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Naha Private Tour Licensed Guide＆ Vehicle
    Kumiko was awesome. She made a…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • １．9:00　Meet up ＠ Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo
    • ２．10:15　＠Asakusa (Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, Cafe break ＠Kaminari Issa, Sumida Park)
    • ３．11:40　＠Tokyo Station (Yaesu Exit, station building, Midori no Madoguchi ticket office, station square)
    • ４．12:20　Lunch ＠Suju Restaurant (inside the Shin-Marunouchi Building)
    • ５．13:45　＠Imperial Palace (Nijubashi Bridge, in front of the Main Gate)
    • ６．14:30　＠The National Art Center, Tokyo
    • ７．15:00　＠Tokyo Midtown Roppongi
    • ８．15:30　Disband ＠inside Tokyo Midtown

    What Is a Private Tokyo Food and Shopping Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Europe, and in daily life they spoke Italian. They wanted to make their trip something special, so they chose Japan, a country whose different culture, including Japanese cuisine, had interested them. On the subway heading to our destination, the guests were struck by how quiet Japanese subways are, and they spoke softly and politely, almost in a whisper, during their own conversations as well. The rain I had been worried about only fell briefly at one point, so we were able to walk outside without any problems. The day before, the guests had visited Shinjuku and Shibuya on their own and enjoyed sushi and ramen, so today I guided them to try more standard Japanese cuisine. They were delighted, saying it was very delicious. What pleased them most was the shopping at Tokyo Midtown Roppongi at the end. One of the guests was able to carefully examine items at a specialty knife shop they were considering for souvenirs, and the guests also purchased dashi, miso, and dried noodles at a dashi specialty store, seeming very satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassSubway Marunouchi Line, Nishi-Shinjuku Station～Subway Ginza Line, Asakusa Station600JPY
    Section 2Free PassSubway Ginza Line, Asakusa Station～Subway Ginza Line, Nihonbashi Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassSubway Chiyoda Line, Nijubashimae Station～Subway Chiyoda Line, Nogizaka Station0JPY
    Total600JPY

    Tour Report by Noripy

    Hello, I’m Noripy.
    I am a lively woman in my 60s who loves having fun. My charm lies in my bright and approachable personality. Drawing on over 30 years of international experience, I began working as a tour guide in 2023. I have conducted over 100 tours annually, ensuring that my clients enjoy Tokyo and its surrounding areas. I have received high praise from a wide range of customers, from teenagers to people in their 80s. I cater to solo travelers, couples, newlyweds, families, and groups of up to about 10 people. Living in the heart of the city, I actively guide tours primarily in Tokyo. In addition to being certified in English, one of my strengths is being able to communicate effectively in Spanish as well.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you all in Tokyo!

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    Jul 3, 2026
    Jody D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from Yokohama
    Best Post cruise tour ever
    It was…

    June 19, 2026
    Alec T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo in 4 hours
    Noripy was excellent! She guided us through…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Hema_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely experience. My…
    Lovely experience. My guide was an absolutely adorable lady…

    Jun 3, 2026
    Sara B
    Tokyo walking tour with Noripy. A+!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Noripy gave a 5/5 tour!…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Peace Memorial Park & Miyajima

    Hiroshima in One Day: Peace Memorial Park & Miyajima

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:50　Hotel
    • 8:15　Arrive at Peace Memorial Park
    • Visit Peace Memorial Museum
    • 　　 G7 Summit Memorial Hall ~ Atomic Bomb Ruins Exhibition Hall ~ Cenotaph for the A-Bomb Victims
    • 　　 Visit Atomic Bomb Dome ~ Peace Bell ~ Children's Peace Monument, etc.
    • 11:10　Depart Peace Memorial Park
    • 11:55　Arrive at Miyajima
    • 　　　 Visit Five-Story Pagoda ~ Senjokaku ~ Itsukushima Shrine ~ Daigan-ji Temple ~ Daisho-in Temple, etc.
    • 14:00　Depart Miyajima
    • 15:00　Arrive at Hotel, Dismissal

    What Is a Private Hiroshima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima We were able to meet without any trouble at the Hotel. Based on the weather forecast, I had been prepared for rain, but fortunately it did not rain at all. Through visiting the Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima, I came to understand that the guests had a deep interest in history. When leaving the Peace Memorial Museum, one of the guests was moved to tears. At first, an extension of the tour time was suggested, and the guests said, "We don't mind paying extra, we would also like to go to another place." However, in the end, we decided to return to the Hotel earlier than planned. The final photo we took shows a smile so bright that it was the best expression of the whole day. I would be delighted if the group enjoyed their time in Hiroshima.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Hiro

    I was an English teacher of a high school in Hiroshima.
    I retired early from my job in March in 2024.
    I might be of use to you if you’d like to get to know the present educational situation in Hiroshima.
    I had many opportunities to introduce Japanese culture when I taught Japanese in high school in America for two years.
    I can take you to the place where you can listen to music because I used to be a member of a music band.
    I like Japanese chess, fishing, skiing.
    I’m willing to do some activities with you.
    I would be most happy to help you know culture in Hiroshima.

    license, qualification
    Certified Administrative Scrivener
    English Proficiency Test Grade1
    a health(sanitation) manager license
    small boat operating license
    large size vehicle license
    standard motorcycle license
    amateur radio operator license

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    Jul 9, 2024
    kimberlyhY8158UZ
    Amazing
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    This tour was amazing! Our guide Hiro was…

    Jun 30, 2024
    lindarE6785KM
    Hiroshima 4hrs
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    We had such a wonderful tour. Can’t recommend…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: @Yanaka & @Asakusa

    Tokyo in Half a Day: @Yanaka & @Asakusa

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Meet up @Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
    • 14:00 Lunch @Hachidaime Denzaemon Meshiya
    • 15:00 @Yanaka
    • 16:00 @Asakusa
    • 17:00 Disband @Asakusa Shrine

    What Is a 4-Hour Private Walking Tour of Yanaka and Asakusa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from Europe. They were very interested in Japan and asked many questions throughout the tour, which I found very rewarding. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guides lead private walking tours like this one covering Yanaka and Asakusa in Tokyo. It was cloudy on the day of the tour, but since it was not an extremely hot day, it was good that we could walk around Yanaka. However, as the guests were not used to Japan's heat and humidity, I brought a fan and cooling towels and guided them while taking breaks along the way. The guests seemed to really like the atmosphere of Yanaka. Since they also wanted lunch, I chose a restaurant with a traditional old-house style. I had reserved a table seat to avoid discomfort from sitting on the floor, but the guests showed interest in the tatami seating; although it was possible to eat there, they just took a photo. After strolling through Yanaka Ginza, we moved to Asakusa, where I guided them through Nakamise Street, Senso-ji Temple, and Asakusa Shrine, and then it was time to say goodbye. With a 4-hour tour that also included lunch, we could not cover a great deal, but the guests seemed satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Nippori210JPY
    Section 2TrainNippori～Ueno150JPY
    Section 3SubwayUeno～Asakusa180JPY
    Total540JPY

    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

    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…

    Oct 23, 2025
    Y6401BOshaunam
    Knowledgable, engaging guide Yoko Kusmoto made day of Tokyo history, architecture and insights exceptional. le.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour…

  • Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:30 Meet at Tobu Nikko Station ➡ 11:50 Move to Nishi-sando Entrance (bus) ➡ 12:00-13:00 Lunch @ Sanraku ➡ 13:10-14:00 Taiyuin ➡ 14:10-15:40 Toshogu Shrine ➡ 15:50-16:20 Break @ Ueshima Cafe ➡ 16:20-16:50 Rinnoji Temple Sanbutsudo (Gomado, Sorinto) ➡ 17:00 Shinkyo Bridge ➡ 17:10 Tobu Nikko Station ➡ 17:24 Return to Tokyo on Kegon No. 24

    Can You Do a Private Day Tour of Nikko from Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were staying in Shibuya, but on the way to Nikko they got lost at Shibuya Station and Tokyo Station, so their planned arrival of 10:17 was delayed to 11:30 (they ended up using the Tobu Railway instead of the JR line they had originally planned to take, so the meeting point also had to be changed at short notice). Since the guests seemed a little tired when we met, we first had lunch and, while chatting, I used a Nikko brochure I had made myself so that they could look forward to an enjoyable time. I also reversed the usual order of the course to avoid crowds, and we managed to visit the two shrines and one temple plus the Shinkyo Bridge, which are the must-sees of Nikko, without rushing too much, and I feel they were satisfied. Because one of the guests had less stamina, I had to adjust the pace accordingly, and I also took care to keep everyone interested at each moment, but with the cooperation of the group we managed it. One of the guests was interested in foreign languages (including Japanese) and Japanese history (the connections among the Kamakura, Muromachi, and Tokugawa periods, as well as the relationship with Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the lord of Osaka Castle, which they had seen a few days earlier), so we were able to enjoy not only the explanations of the two shrines and one temple such as Toshogu, but also wide-ranging conversation, and I believe they enjoyed it as well.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusTobu Nikko Station～Nishi-sando Entrance350JPY
    Section 2BusShinkyo Bridge～Tobu Nikko Station220JPY
    Total570JPY

    Tour Report by Ichi

    I am more than happy to take you to attractive tourism resources scattered in Nikko. I will prepare for your trip enough to satisfy your requests and provide you with the memorable tour. When I was a company employee, I lived abroad for 5 years in Los Angeles, 11 and a half years in Washington D.C. and 2 and half years in Brussels. Despite 19 year long stay abroad, I remain charmed by Japanese things, such as culture, custom, spirit, martial art etc. I am glad if I can be of help you understand Japan as well as Nikko through my guide. I am interested in Japanese martial arts: I own the third grade in Japanese archery, known as Kyudo and I have passed a certification examination (1st grade) for Sumo wrestling conducted by the Japanese Sumo Promoting Association.

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    May 22, 2026
    michaeliI2370UG
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nikko with Ichiro Amazing!
    Ichiro was an awesome tour guide and made…

    May 15, 2026
    Laurent S
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    excellent
    Ichi was very patient, indulgent, super nice, always had an…

    May 12, 2026
    H4725BUbarbarab
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Ichi memorable tour
    Ichi made our trip to Nikko very memorable. He…

    Apr 5, 2026
    EmilioP6
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Great day with Ichi
    Our day in Nikko with Ichi was…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Umeda Sky Building & return to the hotel

    Osaka in Half a Day: Umeda Sky Building & return to the hotel

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 stanby in the lbby of your hotel (Hotel Granvia Osaka)
    • 12:10 pick up the guests
    • 12:20 Umeda Sky Building
    • 13:20 (leave)
    • 13:50 Shinsekai
    • 14:40 (leave)
    • 14:50 Dotonbori
    • 15:40 (leave)
    • 16:00 return to the hotel

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Osaka Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report 1. At 12:00 I could not meet the guests, and although I tried calling, an automated voice response in another language played and I could not speak with them directly. At 12:10 we met in the lobby. The guests had come to the lobby with their baggage, so I advised them to have the Hotel hold it. Then the tour started. 2. When I introduced the places we would visit today, one of the guests asked whether we would not be going to Osaka Castle. I replied that it would take about two hours, but that we could go if we skipped the planned Shinsekai and Dotonbori. In the end, they decided to keep the original plan. 3. At the entrance of Umeda Sky Building there were Tanabata wish strips, so I explained the Tanabata festival. 4. At Dotonbori we took many group photos. 5. At Osaka Station I introduced the water clock, and the tour came to an end.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayUmeda～Dobutsuen-mae240JPY
    Section 2SubwayEbisucho～Namba190JPY
    Section 3SubwayNamba～Umeda240JPY
    Total670JPY

    Tour Report by HIDEYOSHI

    Hello, I’m HIDEo YOSHIda. Please call me HIDEYOSHI, the same name as a famous shogun who unified Japan for the first time in 1590.
    I was born in Kobe, worked in Osaka for nearly 40 years. I would like to introduce you Kansai region, including Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara and Wakayama.
    In Kyoto, I can guide you Nijojo Castle, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kinkakuji Tempe (Golden Pavilion), Gion area, and Fushimi Inari Taisha.
    In Osaka, I’ll show you Osaka Castle, Shinsekai, Dotonbori, and Umeda Sky biilding. We have locall foods such as Kushikatau, Okonomiyaki and Takoyaki.
    In Kobe, I’ll take you to former foreign residential area, Sannomiya Shopping Street, Chinese Market, and Arima Onsen.
    In Nara, I’ll guide you Todaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, Kasuga Taisha, and Yakushiji Temple.
    In Wakayama, I take you to Koyasan, the center of Esoteric Buddhism.
    I enjoy guiding foreign tourists.
    I can show you Japanese history, especially samurai period, and Shinto and Buddhism.
    I’ve been looking forward to guiding you !!

    Request Booking

    Jun 1, 2026
    Stephan_F
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great overview of the…
    Great overview of the highlights of Kyoto with…

    May 28, 2025
    terrym866
    Kyoto guided tour was as promised. Very knowledgeable guide and driver .
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full Day Tour from Kobe with…

    Oct 17, 2024
    katiya2017
    Walking visit in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Government-Licensed Guide
    We booked a full day walking…

    Sep 29, 2024
    Roy_M
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a very good private tour with…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:00 Meeting point: Celestine Gion
    • 2. 09:50 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 3. 11:30 Sanjusangendo
    • 4. 13:10 Lunch: Nishio Yatsuhashi no Sato
    • 5. 14:30 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 6. 15:40 Dismissal: Karasuma Imadegawa Intersection

    Title: What Is a Private Rainy-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Sanjusangendo, and Kyoto Imperial Palace The guests were visitors from North America who were realizing their first-ever visit to Japan. They had developed a deep interest in Japanese culture, which they found completely different from what they knew in the West. Although it rained from the morning, they had strongly requested Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine during our pre-departure briefing, saying that rain would be no problem at all, so we visited it first. Next we toured Sanjusangendo, which is mainly an indoor viewing experience and allowed us to stay out of the rain. For lunch we stopped at a noodle restaurant where guests could enjoy a garden view from inside. One of the guests was an expert at photography and was constantly taking photos with a smartphone throughout the tour, briefly stepping away many times to capture shots. In the afternoon we visited the Kyoto Imperial Palace, where photography is permitted throughout (unlike the Ninomaru Palace at Nijo Castle or the interior of Sanjusangendo). After viewing the Imperial Palace, we exchanged smiles and hugs on the street at Karasuma-Imadegawa and said our goodbyes. Because of the rain, all of our transportation was by taxi.

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

    Tour Report by Masa

    Born, raised and married in Kyoto, I am Masaaki Tanaka started English-speaking licensed guide since 2008, guiding mostly those English-speaking inbound tourists in Kyoto, which is my home base, and in Osaka (where I woked so long time until my retirment) and Nara and in other Kansai areas incl. Kobe, Koyasan, etc. If allowed, I can say I am somewhat experinced in Japanese history (especially in its culture). When young, I lived and worked for some 11 years in the Middle East, which areas, accordingly, I am still quite familiar to . My hobby includes : seeing Noh Play and Kabuki, hearing Musics in general (Beethoven, Beatles, Jazz & Rock’n Rolls as well as Japanese classicals), seeing the paintings/artworks in general, playing the piano (all time at beginner’s level, though), playing the guitar and, when younger, I enjoyed skiing and business golf. Also, I am, since my childhoo, a great fan of Tigers in Japan’s pro-base ball. I love cats (keeping now an old female ‘Chee’ chan) , and certainly my wife Tokuko as well.

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    Jul 30, 2026
    amydJ3030YT
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Private Kyoto tour with a licensed guide and separate driver…

    Mar 20, 2026
    moisessG5827VE
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Masaaki Tanaka was the best tour guide ever!
    Masaaki Tanaka was an…

    Jun 16, 2025
    896nataliex
    Amazing Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Masaaki, was an excellent tour guide and wealth of knowledge…

    Apr 23, 2025
    Simon S
    Enjoyable and informative
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full Day Tour from Osaka with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    The service was friendly…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Around Tatsumi Bridge & Kagai Art Museum

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Around Tatsumi Bridge & Kagai Art Museum

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel
    • 10:30　Around Tatsumi Bridge
    • 11:00　Kagai Art Museum
    • 12:00　Nishiki Market ＞ Kyogoku Shopping Street
    • 13:00　Tour ends at UNIQLO Kawaramachi

    What's a Rainy-Day Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from Europe. Originally, the plan was to start at Kiyomizu-dera Temple and walk down through the Higashiyama area, but the guests indicated they did not want to see any more temples. Since it was raining, I had also hoped to take them to places such as the Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts, but they were not particularly interested in that either, so we visited a museum in Gion. Even there, they seemed unsure about whether to go in, but I encouraged them to enter, as there were few other options available. Afterwards, the guests said they wanted to do some shopping, so we took a taxi to the Karasuma entrance of Nishiki Market and made our way toward the Kyogoku shopping arcade. Finally, they asked me to take them to UNIQLO, so I brought them there and concluded the tour. They still seemed to be experiencing some jet lag.

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

    Tour Report by Mimmy

    Bye bye smart phone!! Let’s enjoy Japan without bothering to check up your phone all the time with not AI but a local guide like me. Hi, my name is Mimmy. You may think this sounds like a kitten’s name.
    I use this nickname because it sounds cute and easy to remember. However,
    I actually look rounded, a middle aged woman more like a yellow character of M&Mchocolate, which reminds you of my name easily when you see me.
    I was born in Osaka, went to school in Kobe, went to work in Kyoto and married but still live in Osaka. I am a local, native Osakan. My 3 children are all grown up and live separately except one son. Now I live with one son and a husband in suburbs of the Osaka city.
    I like travelling, walking around the town and anything new.
    I got my guide license in 2017 and started guiding after that. I wasn’t able to work during Covid period but start guiding in 2022 again. I guide Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Kobe and have experienced more than100 tours including bus tours.
    I would like to tell you about the itineraries I usually have in each area.
    In Osaka, we usually go to Osaka castle, Shinsekai and Dotonbori Namba area.
    I think most important part you should see is Dotonbori Namba in Osaka.
    This place is vibrant , energetic, full of 3D signs and different from any other place in Japan.
    In Kyoto, we cannot see all famous sightseeing spots in one day.
    It will be better to visit each area respectively. I recommend guests who come to Kyoto first time to visit East area, Kiyomizu Temple>Sannenzaka>Ninenzaka>Ishibeikouji>Yasaka shrine> Gion area. This area has an atmosphere of traditional old Kyoto. The most Kyoto like places which suit Kimono. You can rent Kimono in a lot of places around here.
    The second place I recommend you is West area: Golden temple and Arashiyama area where Bamboo forest , Tenryuji temple, mountains and a river. There are several nice gardens in this area. If you want to enjoy the nature quietly, you
    should come here when it is not crowded (Winter is the most quiet)
    In Nara which used to be a capital even older than Kyoto, we visit Todaiji Temple where a huge Buddha is sitting inside of one of the largest wooden hall and you can play with deer everywhere in Nara. Naramachi: a small town in this area is a local place where small interesting shops are.
    In Kobe, a port city, you can visit Japanese Sake breweries, Herb garden and the top of Mt.Rokko for viewing Kobe city. A small China town is there, too.

    Now I bet you want to leave home to explore somewhere else you do not know.
    Not only going to somewhere else, we can help you to do several experiences: making tea, making Japanese sweet, making Takoyaki(food), wearing Kimono, making food samples, attending a tea ceremony, throwing Shriken like Ninja, Using bow and arrow like Samurai, , , ,
    I am very happy indeed if I can help you find things impressive enough and have once in a life time experience during our tour.
    I am looking forward to sharing a good time with you.

    Request Booking

    Mar 24, 2025
    Jennie_N
    Ask for Mimmy
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A must if visiting the first time. Will save…

    Mar 15, 2025
    Eric B
    Wonderful Osaka castle and tour
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mimmy was a wonderful…

    Mar 12, 2025
    williampP2709MA
    Amazing time in Osaka with Mimmy
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mimmy was an amazing tour guide!…

    Oct 30, 2024
    Niaz_M
    Great choice if you have limited time in Kyoto
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a…

  • Hyogo: Sakuramasamune Memorial Museum & Sawanotsuru Museum

    Hyogo: Sakuramasamune Memorial Museum & Sawanotsuru Museum

    Nada Sake Breweries Kobe Local Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:15 Gather at the lobby of The Westin Osaka
    • 9:50- 10:14 Osaka-Umeda to Uozaki (Hanshin Electric Railway)
    • 10:15-10:40 Sakuramasamune Memorial Museum
    • 10:45-11:15 Hamafukutsuru Ginjo Kobo
    • 11:30-12:10 Kikumasamune Sake Brewing Museum
    • 12:20-12:40 Hakutsuru Sake Brewing Museum
    • 12:49-12:59 Sumiyoshi to Shinzaike (Hanshin Electric Railway)
    • 13:10-14:15 Lunch @ Kobe Steak Miyabi
    • 14:29-14:30 Shinzaike to Oishi (Hanshin Electric Railway)
    • 14:45-15:05 Sawanotsuru Museum
    • 15:15 Disband in front of Hanshin Oishi Station

    What Is a Private Sake Brewery Tour in Kobe Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They were very pleasant, and although I had worried that visiting one sake brewery after another might become tiring, they thoroughly enjoyed the brewery tours and tastings from start to finish. Because some of the guests were younger, they could not join the barrel sake and cup tour at Kikumasamune, but even so, at Kikumasamune they were shown an English video and the staff spoke with them about various things, so they said Kikumasamune was their favorite. They were delighted with the Kobe beef lunch, saying it was the most delicious meat they had ever eaten. Since I do not eat much meat myself, I was treated to a wonderful seafood lunch instead. At the end, they even gave me a tip.

    Click here for more details: Nada Sake Breweries Kobe Local Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOsaka-Umeda～Uozaki300JPY
    Section 2TrainSumiyoshi～Shinzaike160JPY
    Section 3TrainShinzaike～Oishi160JPY
    Total620JPY

    Tour Report by Yumiko

    Welcome to Japan! I’m Yumiko. I’ll be your guide.
    I’m from Kakogawa, a small city located in Hyogo Prefecture. Since it’s located near Himeji and my grandparents used to live in Himeji, I like showing my guests around places in Himeji, especially Himeji Castle and Mt. Shosha – Engyoji Temple. I’ve also lived in Osaka for about 10 years, so Osaka is also my favorite place. I’m familiar with Kobe as well, so it’s also a great pleasure to show you around these areas. I like traveling, reading, and of course, tour guiding. It’s great to see people from all over the place while living in Japan. I’d love to share Japanese history, culture, and food with you. I’m also looking forward to learning about your country – about your culture, history, and food. I’m looking forward to seeing you in Japan!

    Request Booking

    Apr 7, 2025
    VHerzberg
    A wonderful Himeji castle tour with Yumiko
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The Himeji castle tour was…

    Apr 1, 2025
    Sightseer39112583641
    Yumiko is the best
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yumiko was such an amazing and sweet guide!!…

    Jul 12, 2024
    jennarD7008EA
    A MUST DO in Kobe!!! Amazing Sake Tour and Kobe Beef Lunch with Yumiko
    Tripadvisor review: Exploring Nada Sake Breweries Kobe…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1000 Mimaru Tokyo Asakusa Station（1 min from Ginza Line Asakusa Station）Meet
    • 1135 Suehirocho～Akihabara
    • 1220 Tsukiji Outer Market, lunch at Suizanmai Annex ～ Kabukiza ～ Ginza 4-chome intersection
    • 1420 Shibuya, Hachiko Statue, Scramble Crossing, explaining Parco and 109
    • 1430 Dismissal

    Title: What's a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, and Shibuya Body: [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guided a private tour in Tokyo for a group from Europe visiting Japan for the first time. The guests had arrived the previous night and had visited Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa on their own, but they had not fully understood it, so I gave them my usual explanation, and they were each satisfied and convinced. One of the guests was very curious about the strawberry candy (ichigo ame) and enjoyed eating it. Another guest was interested in the restaurants visible along the street, so I explained places such as Fujisoba, Matsuya, and Hidakaya. Among the shops I explained along Nakamise, they showed interest in Sakai Kokodo Santo and Kurodaya Honten, and said they would return to visit them tonight or tomorrow. The guests were not particularly interested in anime-related items, though some in the group enjoyed it more than others. At Tsukiji, although they mentioned having eaten sushi the previous night as well, we ended up having sushi for lunch. They pointed out that the salmon and mackerel likely came from their home region, which they said is an important industry there. The group would be staying in Tokyo for about five days and then traveling to Takayama, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. I let them know about the travel concierge at Shibuya Station, and they planned to buy the above train tickets there on their way back today. One of the guests wanted "KAWAII" clothes, so I introduced 109 and some other shops, and then we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa～Suehirocho178JPY
    Section 2SubwayAkihabara～Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 3SubwayGinza～Shibuya209JPY
    Total565JPY

    Tour Report by Ted

    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.

    Request Booking

    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
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    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…