Category: Uncategorized

  • Mt. Fuji Five Lakes Customized Tour

    Mt. Fuji Five Lakes Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:50 Meet the guests at Kawaguchiko Station
    • 11:15 Kawaguchiko Station – 11:28 Shimoyoshida Station (train)
    • Arakurayama Sengen Park Chureito Pagoda
    • 13:11 Shimoyoshida Station – 13:17 Fujisan Station (train)
    • Lunch at Fujisan Station
    • 13:53 Fujisan Station – 14:14 Oshino Hakkai (bus)
    • Sightseeing centered on the Hannoki Bayashi Museum
    • 15:50 Oshino Hakkai – 16:10 Kawaguchiko Ropeway (taxi)
    • 17:10 Disband at Kawaguchiko Ropeway

    What Is a Private Fuji Five Lakes Day Tour from Kawaguchiko Like? A Licensed Guide's Report 10:50 Meet at Kawaguchiko Station ・Arakurayama Sengen Park The stairs were demanding, but the guests thoroughly enjoyed the wonderful view of Mount Fuji and the five-story pagoda. ・Oshino Hakkai The guests wished to see thatched-roof houses, so we focused our visit on the Hannoki Bayashi Museum. They greatly enjoyed the thatched roofs, the bottomless pond, the rainbow trout, and the carp. ・It began to rain on the way back, and there was some talk of skipping the ropeway and spending time in Oshino instead, but Mount Fuji appeared again, so we headed to the Kawaguchiko Ropeway as planned. There was a major bus delay and a long queue, so the guests hailed a taxi. ・At the Kawaguchiko Ropeway, the guests were deeply impressed by the views of Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi. 17:10 Ended the tour at the Kawaguchiko Ropeway. The guests had already arranged a hotel shuttle from Kawaguchiko Station. Although it drizzled at times, Mount Fuji was clearly visible and the weather was perfect for sightseeing around the Fuji Five Lakes, so the guests greatly enjoyed themselves. Other ・On Thursday there was a sudden cancellation notice, and then the evening before, on Friday, a message came from the guests requesting to proceed as originally planned, which was quite confusing. Thank you very much to the office for handling this. ・These guests had brought a drone and asked whether there was any place where they could film. I also asked the staff at the Hannoki Museum, but of course prior permission is required. This was my first such case, so I would appreciate it if guidance on how to handle drones could be shared. Thank you very much.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKawaguchiko Station~Shimoyoshida Station310JPY
    Section 2TrainShimoyoshida Station~Fujisan Station230JPY
    Section 3BusFujisan Station~Oshino Hakkai450JPY
    Total990JPY

    Dear my guests,

    Hi. My name is Yumi, a national licensed English-speaking guide living in Yamanashi, home of Mt. Fuji.

    Since started guiding in 2005, I have guided tours in my local area, Yamanashi and its vicinities, as well as tours visiting many places across Japan.

    I would like to show you hidden gems off the beaten track and cultural treasures. The view of Mt. Fuji and lakes at the foot of the mountain is magnificent. I will make your visit to the Fuji Five Lakes Area as enjoyable and memorable as possible.

    Looking forward to meeting you. Let’s have a great day.

    Best regards,
    Yumi

    May 23, 2026
    Horace_Shao
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Fuji Five Lakes Area Private Tour with Licensed Guide(Kawaguchiko area Dep)
    Tour with knowledge of Japanese culture and…

    May 6, 2026
    ShaliniS_G
    Viator review: Mt. Fuji Five Lakes Area Private Tour with Licensed Guide(Kawaguchiko area Dep)
    Mt Fuji Area Experience
    We had a…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel pick up. ⇒Kinkakuji ⇒ Fushimiinari. ⇒Kiyomizudera. ⇒sanneizaka.⇒yasakanotou ⇒koushindou.⇒ Gion. ⇒Return to Hotel

    What Does a Private Kyoto Day Tour Look Like on a Hot Summer Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. As requested in advance, we visited Kinkaku-ji, Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, and then walked from Sannenzaka to the Yasaka Pagoda before touring Gion. Originally, the forecast suggested it would be cooler (33 degrees) than the previous day (36 degrees), but in the afternoon the temperature eventually rose to 36 degrees, making it another hot day. The morning was pleasantly cool, but before heading to Gion, the guests said they felt unwell from the heat and could no longer walk outside. I parked the car in front of Tatsumi Shrine in Gion and, in the cool interior of the vehicle, explained about geiko and maiko using illustrations. After cooling down, some of the guests joined me to walk around the teahouses and geisha houses near Shirakawa. Finally, I had the driver take a slow route so I could explain Hanamikoji and Miyagawacho from inside the car, bringing the tour to a close. Although it was a hot day, we managed well by making good use of taxis, and it turned out to be an enjoyable tour.

    Hi, every one. How have you been? I am JGA tour guide Kazu. It is my great pleasure that I can introduce myself here. I am already more than 70 years old, but I believe I am still young both mentally and physically. I like walking with my customers very much. I am from Tokyo, but now

    I live in Kyoto traditional city and an old capital of Japan. I had worked at electric manufacturing company for more than 40 years. While I was working at that company, fortunately I had a lot of chances to visit many foreign countries.

    I lived in Singapore, Malaysia, Poland and Mexico. Also I visited America, Britain, and other countries. Basically I used English to proceed my job there, however I always tried to speak local languages as much as possible. Through staying other countries, I found that there were great differences of the culture or the way of thinking between those countries and Japan. I though I had a valuable experience. After I retired from the company 5 years ago, I began to work as a tour guide although I got the National English tour guide license 7 years ago. Besides English I speak Spanish but I don’t have Spanish tour guide license yet. I belong to the comany JGA and worked around 10 days a month. So far I accompanied with mu customers more than 100 groups. All of my tour was good and lucky as I was always favored with gentle and kind customers.

    My hobby is playing the guitar, dancing and learning foreign languages. I sometimes join the concert by playing the guitar, and it is fun for me. Though I like dancing, I can not dance well. I only enjoy dancing here in Japan.

    About the tour in Japan, I usually take my tourists to the famous spots in Kyoto like Kinkakuji, Kiyomizu dera, Fushimi inari, Gion area,Nishiki market and Arashiyama area. In Arashiyama area we often visit Bamboo forest,Nonomiya shrine,Togetsukyou bridge and Kimono forest. I will cope with my customers demands as much as possible so that I try to visit any places up to your requests.

    I welcome a lot for your coming to Japan. and if possible I would like to help you to visit various kind of spots in Japan especially in Kyoto. JGA is very flexible company so that I have a confidence that you will be satisfied with our attitude and hospitality. I am glad that many of my customers told that it was so nice to travel around Japan. We will and I will expect you come down to Japan any time and we are ready to help your memorable trip in Japan. I can not wait!

    Sep 26, 2025
    kaylah199
    Amazing tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kazu was extraordinary! He planned a wonderful day for…

    Jul 30, 2024
    Venture826497
    Great time in Kyoto!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My daughter and I had an amazing time…

    Jul 8, 2024
    233vickies
    6 hour Kyoto tour with Kazu
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Government-Licensed Guide and Vehicle (Max 7 persons)
    We had…

    Jun 21, 2024
    Hoc_N
    A fascinating experience in Kyoto we won’t forget
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The most memorable parts…

  • Kyoto: Himuro Shrine & for Osaka

    Kyoto: Himuro Shrine & for Osaka

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Arashizuki Arashiyama Meet
    • 10:15 Himuro Shrine
    • 10:20 Nara Park
    • 11:00 Todaiji Temple
    • 11:40 Nigatsudo Hall
    • 12:30 Heijo-kyo Ruins Exhibition Hall
    • 13:20 Nigiwai no Ie
    • 13:40 Naramachi Free Walk
    • 14:30 Departure for Osaka
    • 15:25 Tempozan Passenger Terminal End

    What Is a Private Day Trip to Nara from Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The tour was originally planned to depart from Osaka, but since the guests were staying in Kyoto, it was changed to depart from Kyoto instead. I guided the group, who were from the Middle East. The guests were quiet and composed. One of the guests was very responsible, checking the Japanese yen from their own wallet while making payments. I felt they had received a fine upbringing. What the guests wanted to do most was feed the deer, so we set aside plenty of time for it. They took many photos and seemed very satisfied. At the end, the group enjoyed a leisurely stroll together before leaving Nara. Nara was scorching hot that day, but the guests seemed to have a wonderful time, which made me very happy.

    Hello. My name is Momoyo Kanagawa. I’ve been a certified interpreter guide for 7 years. I have experience guiding not only in the Kansai
    area such as Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara, but also in the Tokyo area. I have a passion for sharing the rich history and culture of Japan.
    Japan is a beautiful country with diverse culture and nature. If you come to Japan, you might be able to experience things like:
    Sight: You can see the scenery of cherry blossom petals dancing in the wind, or the majestic figure of Mt. Fuji.
    Hearing: You can hear the sound of traditional instruments such as Japanese drums and shakuhachi, or the lively atmosphere of festivals and fireworks.
    Touch: You can relax in a hot spring, or try on Japanese costumes such as kimono and yukata.
    Taste: You can taste famous Japanese dishes such as sushi, tempura, ramen, or Japanese drinks such as matcha and sake.
    Smell: You can smell the fragrance of incense and flowers, or feel the unique air of temples and shrines.
    These are just some of the charms of Japan. There are still many things to discover in Japan. Please use your five senses and feel the wonder of Japan.
    I’m excited to be able to explore Japan together with you and make your visit memorable! I will escort you with the best hospitality.

    안녕하세요. 간사이에서 가이드를 하고 있는 카나가와 모모요라고 합니다.
    오사카·교토·나라·고베를 중심으로 역사와 문화, 미의식, 그리고 일본인의 정신성까지를 차분하고 깊이 있게 전하며 오래 기억에 남는 간사이 여행을 안내합니다.

    단순한 명소 방문이 아닌, 봄의 벚꽃, 여름의 신록, 가을의 단풍, 겨울의 고요함 등 일본 사계절 자연의 아름다움을 온전히 느낄 수 있는 여행을 중요하게 생각합니다.
    또한 일식을 비롯한 일본의 식문화와 지역의 제철 식재료, 신뢰할 수 있는 고급 레스토랑과 명점 소개를 통해 미각으로도 일본을 깊이 경험하는 시간을 제안합니다.

    커플 여행부터 가족 여행까지, 어르신부터 어린이까지 다양한 연령대와 상황에 맞춘 무리 없는 일정 구성이 가능합니다. 한일 양국의 문화적 공통점과 차이를 세심하게 고려하여, 편안하고 신뢰할 수 있는 가이딩을 제공하고자 합니다.

    최고의 호스피탈리티로 고객님의 여행 추억 속에 오래 남을 소중한 한 페이지를 장식하는 동반자가 되겠습니다.

    Sep 13, 2025
    O7109SGricardoc
    Tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full Day Tour from Osaka with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    We had an excellent experience…

    May 23, 2025
    R
    Road294776
    Great experience
    Tripadvisor review: Mt Koya Full Day Tour from Osaka with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Really smooth experience. Our…

    Sep 10, 2024
    famililuxe
    Amazing Osaka Introduction with Momo
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We love Momo Kanagawa! This…

    Sep 6, 2024
    Simon C
    Best tour guide in Osaka
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Momo is the best. She is…

  • Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet up @Alza Kyoto
    • 2. 9:15 @Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 3. 10:20 @Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji Temple
    • 4. 11:30 @Ryoan-ji Temple
    • 5. 12:00 @Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 6. 12:30 Lunch @Cafe Du Mondo
    • 7. 13:45 @Obai-in & Zuisen-in
    • 8. 14:45 @Ginkaku-ji Temple
    • 9. 15:15 @Philosopher's Path
    • 10. 16:15 @Nanzen-ji Temple Gate
    • 11. 16:30 Disband @Alza Kyoto

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour by Taxi Like? A Licensed Guide's Report An intermediary travel agency had provided detailed requests regarding the lunch venue and places to visit, so I followed them for the most part. All transportation was by taxi. The agency had requested that we avoid Arashiyama, but when I showed photos to the guests, they said they very much wanted to go, so I guided them there together with Tenryu-ji Temple. After a leisurely lunch, we started the second half of the tour, but the extreme heat of 38°C made it quite challenging. Even so, the guests said they wanted to walk the Philosopher's Path, so we made the effort to walk it, saw the Sanmon gate of Nanzen-ji Temple, and returned to the hotel. Afterward, I was asked for advice about the rest of their stay in Kyoto, so I explained while showing them a map and also recommended some restaurants before we parted. Right afterward, I received a message of thanks from the guests via a messaging app, saying "You are the best!" — they seemed very pleased.

    Hi! My name is YUKA. I’ve got the government license in 2018 and joined a half year traning to do the guide. But a half year later I started my carreer, Covid came. I should have given up guiding. During the Covid, I’ve read many books and made my own materials to explain Japanese culture, history, etc. I love guiding because the guests expand my horizon all the time and let me know their own country and culture, etc. It is really important for us all to know each other and respect each other to make this world peace. Thank you for coming to Japan! Let’s enjoy Japan together!

    Jul 25, 2026
    Ann W
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Early Morning Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    One of the highlights of my trip, perfect for solo…

    Jul 14, 2026
    Elizabeth W
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour, Licensed Guide
    Great tour
    We had a great tour with…

    Jul 11, 2026
    Dianna-fam
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Wonderful Tour, Wonderful Guide!
    My teenage boys and I…

    Jul 1, 2026
    Christian_L
    Viator review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kyoto visite with Yuka : Wow !
    Wow ! Yuka was…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:30 Meet at Hotel New Otani Tokyo The Main
    • 2. 9:00 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 3. 11:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 4. 12:30 Shibuya Crossing
    • 5. 13:00 Lunch at Japanese-style Yakiniku Okamoto
    • 6. 14:00 Asakusa Sensoji Temple and Nakamise
    • 7. 14:30 Disband at Asakusa

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Meiji Shrine, Shibuya, and Asakusa The guests initially asked to push the meeting time back by one hour on short notice, then inquired about keeping the original time, and in the end we agreed to delay the meeting by 30 minutes, which we did. We started at the Tsukiji Outer Market, keeping our time in the hot outdoor area brief and heading indoors to enjoy natural rock oysters, which the guests seemed very pleased with. Next, we cooled off a little in the forest of Meiji Shrine. We skipped Harajuku and instead viewed the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, which was lively on the holiday, and the guests seemed to find it fascinating. On the Ginza Line to Asakusa, we relaxed in comfortable seats in the cool train car. In Asakusa, the guests seemed to greatly enjoy Japanese-style yakiniku. Finally, I explained Senso-ji Temple and the Nakamise shopping street in Asakusa before we parted ways. Overall, I believe the guests were very satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassAkasaka-mitsuke~Tsukiji600JPY
    Section 2Free PassHigashi-ginza~Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku~Shibuya150JPY
    Section 4Free PassShibuya~Asakusa0JPY
    Total750JPY

    Born and raised in Tokyo a half-century ago, I have lived in Tokyo all my life except for one year in the UK to study for a master’s course. I am a Tokyo Native with viewpoints based on broader local knowledge than anyone else. I have specialised in Japanese history, culture, and architecture since I was an architect.
    Also, I am a foodie emphasising Japanese traditional & healthy foods. I’ve been to many countries around the world, such as the US, Central America, Europe, and Asia. As such, I believe I can anticipate the needs of foreign tourists in Japan.

    Despite my experience as a guide for just two years, we can make the best out of our tour by travelling from your hotel to spots time-efficiently with my local knowledge, while accommodating your unexpected requests during the tour.
    My strong area includes Yanesen; Old Temples in a Quaint Village, Kamakura, Asakusa Sensoji, Meiji Shrine and Imperial Palace. All give you peace of mind.

    Oct 22, 2025
    I5562SWphilipk
    Great intro to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kei was a genial and knowledgeable host, who…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Gary H
    Great tour of Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We loved our tour! Our guide was…

    Oct 5, 2025
    C
    Cindy_S
    Had one day in Tokyo and…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Had one day in Tokyo…

    Sep 15, 2025
    chrishN2970OC
    A highly enjoyable tour of Tokyo with knowledgeable local guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had…

  • Tokyo Family-Friendly Customized Tour

    Tokyo Family-Friendly Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.08:45 Meet @ Metro Hatchobori Station
    • 2.09:15 @ Meiji Shrine
    • 3.10:30 Takeshita Street
    • 4.11:30 Lunch @ Kaisen Misakiko
    • 5.12:30 @ Shibuya
    • 6.13:00 @ Shinjuku
    • 7.14:00 Disband @ Tokyo Station

    Title: What's a Private Family-Friendly Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: The accommodation was a hotel in the Tokyo Bay area, so I met the guests at Hatchobori. The guests were a group visiting Tokyo. As it was very hot and humid, they mentioned they had not slept well the night before and were not feeling their best. They said Meiji Shrine, surrounded by forest, was beautiful. We cooled off with some ice cream. On Takeshita Street, they enjoyed buying gashapon capsule toys, rainbow-colored cotton candy, and candy. We also visited a hedgehog cafe, where they found the animals very cute. Since they had not been able to have Japanese food the day before, we had lunch at a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant, experienced the Shibuya Crossing, and then saw the Godzilla Head in Shinjuku. We continued together to Tokyo Station, where we parted ways. They were surprised that some shops in Japan still only accept cash. Overall, I believe they enjoyed the tour. They said they would like to come again in winter. This private one-day tour of Tokyo was guided by a government-licensed guide from [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/). [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. Winner of Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHatchobori Station~Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku~Shibuya146JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya~Shinjuku167JPY
    Section 4TrainShinjuku~Tokyo208JPY
    Total730JPY

    Hello, I am Fumiko, an English-speaking Tourist Guide. I have been guiding foreign visitors science 2016. Please let me know your bucket lists whiles you are staying in Japan and what you are interested in. I will make the best plan for you. This is an once in a lifetime experience for you. As for myself, I love traveling, meeting people, eating local food, drinking, history, and art. I am learning Ikebana, traditional Japanese-style flower arrangement, and tea ceremony. I also love sports, especially tennis. I like children, so I can teach them some origami, folding paper. I am looking forward to hearing from you and seeing you in Japan.

    Jul 27, 2026
    zyarisa
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko tour good vibes only
    Mrs. fumiko was very…

    Jul 23, 2026
    734mortenp
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Nice tour of Tokyo
    Don’t visit Tokyo without a guide! You’ll…

    Jul 10, 2026
    Jessica_A
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko was wonderful. …
    Fumiko was wonderful. You can…

    Jun 28, 2026
    alistairn2016
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fumiko is a great tour guide – informative, friendly and very well…

  • Tokyo in One Day: 30 @ Akihabara & 00 Dismiss @ Akihabara

    Tokyo in One Day: 30 @ Akihabara & 00 Dismiss @ Akihabara

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.08:00 Meet @ Hotel
    • 2.08:25 @ Nijubashi Bridge
    • 3.09:30 @ Meiji Shrine
    • 4.10:20 @ Takeshita Street
    • 5.11:30 @ Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 6.12:10 @ Hanazono Shrine
    • 7.12:30 @ Golden Gai
    • 8.12:40 Lunch @ Starbucks Tokyu Kabukicho Tower
    • 9:13:30 @ Akihabara
    • 10:14:00 Dismiss @ Akihabara

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The group wanted to visit as many places as possible. They mentioned that they had gone to Asakusa the day before. We took photos at Nijubashi, and after praying at Meiji Shrine, we enjoyed some ice cream. On Takeshita Street, some of the guests enjoyed shopping for accessories and T-shirts. They plan to visit an animal cafe on another day. Since one of the guests did not particularly enjoy shopping and seemed tired from the heat, they rested at a cafe while the rest of the group went to Shinjuku Gyoen. They said the Japanese garden was very beautiful. Afterward, the group came together again and walked to Golden Gai, enjoyed the Godzilla head, and had a light lunch at a coffee shop. We then moved to Akihabara, where I explained the highlights before parting ways there. Some of the guests are fond of anime. Although it was quite hot, I was glad we were able to complete the tour safely.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKokkai-gijidomae~Nijubashi-mae178JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijubashi-mae~Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Shinjuku-gyoemmae178JPY
    Section 4TrainShinjuku~Akihabara178JPY
    Total743JPY

    Hello, I am Fumiko, an English-speaking Tourist Guide. I have been guiding foreign visitors science 2016. Please let me know your bucket lists whiles you are staying in Japan and what you are interested in. I will make the best plan for you. This is an once in a lifetime experience for you. As for myself, I love traveling, meeting people, eating local food, drinking, history, and art. I am learning Ikebana, traditional Japanese-style flower arrangement, and tea ceremony. I also love sports, especially tennis. I like children, so I can teach them some origami, folding paper. I am looking forward to hearing from you and seeing you in Japan.

    Jul 27, 2026
    zyarisa
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko tour good vibes only
    Mrs. fumiko was very…

    Jul 23, 2026
    734mortenp
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Nice tour of Tokyo
    Don’t visit Tokyo without a guide! You’ll…

    Jul 10, 2026
    Jessica_A
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko was wonderful. …
    Fumiko was wonderful. You can…

    Jun 28, 2026
    alistairn2016
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fumiko is a great tour guide – informative, friendly and very well…

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Stay at Hakone Shrine

    Kanagawa in One Day: Stay at Hakone Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hyatt Regency Hakone Kamigora
    • 10:20 – 10:35 Sounzan → Owakudani (Travel: Hakone Ropeway)
    • 10:35 – 11:15 Stay at Owakudani (Photo taking, buying black eggs, etc.)
    • 11:20 – 11:55 Owakudani → Togendai (Travel: Hakone Ropeway)
    • 12:40 – 13:05 Togendai → Hakonemachi Port (Travel: Pirate Ship)
    • 13:15 – 14:00 Lunch at Tatsumi
    • 14:15 – 14:18 Hakonemachi Port → Moto-Hakone Port (Travel: Hakone Tozan Bus)
    • 14:30 – 15:40 Stay at Hakone Shrine
    • 15:58 – 16:14 Moto-Hakone Port → Kowakudani (Travel: Hakone Tozan Bus)
    • 16:28 – 16:34 Kowakudani → Gora (Travel: Hakone Tozan Railway)
    • 17:00 Disband at Hyatt Regency Hakone

    What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group who came to Japan from North America, a very pleasant and close-knit group, and it was clear they were enjoying the tour, which kept me feeling happy throughout to the very end. During the preliminary discussions, there was a request to have ramen for lunch, but I had explained that while Hakone is famous for soba, ramen is not something to expect there. On the day, however, we did end up going for ramen. The shop that served the ramen was a bit disappointing, so as a point of reflection I would like to take this into account for future tours. At Hakone Shrine, everyone drew omikuji fortunes, and I translated and conveyed the main parts of the results, which they seemed to greatly enjoy, and it went very well.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSounzan~Owakudani1,500JPY
    Section 2FerryTogendai Port~Hakonemachi Port2,000JPY
    Section 3BusHakonemachi Port~Moto-Hakone Port200JPY
    Section 4BusMoto-Hakone Port~Kowakudani650JPY
    Section 5TrainKowakudani~Gora160JPY
    Total4,510JPY

    I registered as a national guide in February 2015 and began working as an interpreter guide in 2019. I have been guiding throughout Tokyo (I was born and raised in Setagaya and went to elementary and junior high school in Aoyama, Minato-ku. I am familiar with sightseeing spots and gourmet food in this area, including Shibuya), and I now live in Kanagawa (Yokohama where I have lived more than 30 years, and Kamakura, Odawara, Hakone)
    I worked for the Japanese branch of an American advertising company for over 30 years and, thus, have deep knowledge of marketing and branding.
    My hobbies are travel (domestic and international) and bicycling (I have participated in the Tour de Okinawa citizens’ race every year since 2017. I ride approx. 7,000 kilometers a year). When traveling in Japan, I enjoy traditional crafts, local products, food, and sake from each region. I am also active in a band as a third hobby, performing live once a year for ten years.
    As a guide, I mainly guide small groups (about 4-5 people), where I can communicate more closely and politely with them, rather than large groups.
    My activity aims to deepen the understanding of Japanese traditional culture and the Japanese people among foreign visitors and to make a small contribution to making Japan the number one country to revisit in their hearts.

    May 31, 2026
    Carol_S
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great way to start a trip
    Hidecki reached out a couple of…

    May 7, 2026
    Alain_V
    Viator review: Yokohama 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Belle visite
    Merci beaucoup à notre guide Ideaki qui nous a permis…

    Apr 16, 2026
    Julia_S
    Viator review: Kamakura Private Tour from Yokohama with Guide and Vehicle
    Excellent Guide made for an Excellent Tour
    We enjoyed our…

    Mar 25, 2026
    Jeff_M
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Short tour of a huge city
    Hideiki obviously wanted to give us…

  • Kanagawa: Hokokuji Temple & Enoshima

    Kanagawa: Hokokuji Temple & Enoshima

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30  Meet up @ Kamakura Station East Exit
    • 10:00 Hokokuji Temple
    • 11:00  Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
    • 11:30 Komachi Street
    • 12:00 Lunch @ Ginza Kagari Kamakura Branch (Ramen Shop)
    • 13:30 Hasedera Temple
    • 15:00 Enoshima
    • 16:00 Disband @ Fujisawa Station

    Title: What's a Private Day Trip to Kamakura and Enoshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time, traveling with [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/). Before coming to Japan, the group had traveled through Asia. At Hokokuji Temple, they were impressed by the beautiful bamboo grove garden, and at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine they admired the lotus flowers in full bloom on the Genpei Pond. On Komachi Street, the group showed interest in the wide variety of souvenir shops and enjoyed a lunch of ramen. At Hasedera Temple they were struck by the enormous Kannon statue, and on Enoshima they took interest in the beautiful ocean scenery and the shops along the approach to Enoshima Shrine. As I responded to all of the group's requests, I believe they were satisfied with the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKamakura Station~Jomyoji220JPY
    Section 2BusJomyoji~Hachimangu220JPY
    Section 3TrainKamakura Station~Hase200JPY
    Section 4TrainHase~Enoshima260JPY
    Section 5TrainKatase-Enoshima~Fujisawa170JPY
    Total1,070JPY

    I am Seizo Kamiuto, National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English). I was born in Kagoshima City in Kyushu (Southern part of Japan) and grew up there until the graduation from a high school. I came to Tokyo to enter a University in Tokyo and since then, I have lived in Tokyo for more than 40 years and therefore I know Tokyo and its suburbs and Kagoshima City very well. After retiring from an IT company, I have been working as a Guide Interpreter of English since March 2018. I have guided many overseas guests to the popular sightseeing spots in Tokyo, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji area (Kawaguchiko Lake etc.), Hakone, Nikko, Yokohama, Kawagoe and Kagoshima and so on. I have received good reviews from many guests. I can explain the history and the culture of Japan in detail. I look forward to an opportunity to guide you in Japan. Thank you. Seizo Kamiuto

    Jul 10, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Beautiful Tour of Kamakura
    Seizo Kamiuto was out…

    Jun 9, 2026
    stacy_grana
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with an experienced guide
    Our guide, Seizo, was amazing.…

    Jun 6, 2026
    U9351HJjakes
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Seizo Kamiuto was great and super knowledgeable. He had a…

    May 20, 2026
    HugoJ670
    Tripadvisor review: Edo Tokyo & Japanese Culture Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Tokio in de zon
    Seizo Kaminto is een uitstekende…

  • Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Heian Shrine

    Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Heian Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Meet  JR Kyoto Station
    • 12:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 13:30 Sanjusangendo
    • 14:45 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 15:45 Yasaka Pagoda
    • 16:10 Heian Shrine
    • 17:40 Disband JR Kyoto Station

    Title: Can You Do a Private Day Trip from Tokyo to Kyoto? A Licensed Guide's Report This tour was for guests visiting Kyoto on a private day trip from Tokyo. We began exchanging messages to decide on a meeting point at Kyoto Station, but since the replies to my questions were not quite on point, I felt a little uneasy about whether we would be able to meet successfully. Thanks to the support from the staff at [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), however, we were able to meet without any trouble. I am very grateful. As for the tour itself, in front of the Niomon Gate at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the guests became friendly with some junior high school students who were on a school trip, and in the end they happily posed together for a photo. I believe the guests enjoyed this tour.

    Personal data
    Born in : May 1st, 1957
    Hobby : Visiting scenic places,
    historic spots, Japanese
    gardens and old townscape
    Former career : Worked for electric
    company and engaged in
    international sales for
    about 40 years.
    Travel history in the former career :
    Visited about 20 countries about 200 times

    Career as guide interpreter
    Acquisition of guide license : 2016
    Career of guide : 8 years
    Genre of my specialty :
    Japanese historic structures such as
    temple, shrine, castle and garden.
    Area of guide : Kyoto, Nara, Osaka &
    Himeji

    Let’s enjoy Japan with me !!

    Dec 30, 2024
    shannono1010
    Haru is a Rock Star
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a fantastic guide. He explained…

    Dec 29, 2024
    Ali O
    Amazing!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was amazing on our tour of Nara. He was…

    Dec 4, 2024
    D5658ZEjohnr
    Trip to some of the Kyoto sites on our visit to Japan.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with…

    Dec 3, 2024
    Charlie_Jane00
    Kyoto Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a well organised and very informative guide. He…