Category: Uncategorized

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Namba

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Namba

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00　Hotel
    • 10:30　Osaka Castle
    • 11:45　Ren Matsuyamachi
    • 12:30　Shinsekai
    • 13:20　Namba
    • 13:45　End of tour

    Title: What's a Private Osaka Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, one of whom had lived in Japan about 20 years ago. Today was a special occasion for one of the guests. The group originally had four people, but one could not join, so three came in the end. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) provides government-licensed, English-speaking private guides who lead walking tours like this one in Osaka. We did not go inside Osaka Castle, but instead tried throwing shuriken at MIRAIZA. After that, we enjoyed chocolate drinks at a chocolate shop in Matsuyamachi and headed to Shinsekai. We then walked around Hozenji and Dotonbori, and since the guests wanted to visit a secondhand brand store, I introduced them to one and ended the tour there.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassYodoyabashi～Tanimachi 4-chome820JPY
    Section 2Free PassOsaka Business Park～Matsuyamachi0JPY
    Section 3Free PassMatsuyamachi～Ebisucho0JPY
    Section 4Free PassDobutsuen-mae～Namba0JPY
    Total820JPY

    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…

  • 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

    • 09:00 We met at the front desk on the 6th floor of Hotel New Otani Garden Tower. The husband Mr. Mike, wife Mrs. Ursula, eldest daughter Victoria in her first year of junior high, and eldest son Liam in his first year of elementary school. The route had been decided through email exchanges in advance, but when I confirmed the entire itinerary for this trip, they would spend 4 days in Tokyo, then 3 days each in Kyoto and Osaka, 2 days in Hakone, and finally 2 days in Tokyo. They wanted to arrange a guide for the first day in each city and be able to move around well on their own for the rest of the time in each city, so with that in mind, I guided them while explaining recommended places, recommended meals, etc. in Tokyo one by one.
    • 09:45 -11:30 Arrived at Sensoji Temple → Azuma Bridge → Kaminarimon → Nakamise Shopping Street → Main Hall → Stone Bridge → Asakusa Shrine. Since they had two children and it was a very hot day, we strolled while taking breaks at 4 places for sweets and drinks.
    • 11:30 Took the Ginza Line subway, transferred at Omotesando, and arrived at Meiji Jingumae.
    • 12:20 Started strolling around Meiji Shrine.
    • 13:15 As a reference for their own movements starting tomorrow, we moved from Harajuku to Shibuya on the Yamanote Line.
    • 13:25 Took photos at Hachiko and filmed video of the scramble crossing from the connecting corridor between the Inokashira Line and the Ginza Line. Here they got hungry and wanted to go into a sushi restaurant, so we went to the 8th floor of Seibu Department Store.
    • 14:00-15:10 Had a sushi lunch at the sushi restaurant "Kodai Suzumezushi."
    • 15:10-15:25 As 6 hours had passed and they could return to Akasaka-mitsuke on their own via the Ginza Line, I told them about the location and shop information for places like 109 that the daughter wanted to go to, Don Quijote that the wife wanted to go to, and Tokyu Plaza that the husband wanted to go to, and at 15:30 we parted ways.

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like in Summer Heat? A Licensed Guide's Report The original route included the Imperial Palace Nijubashi Bridge area after Senso-ji Temple, but the temperature rose to around 33 degrees. When we were leaving Senso-ji Temple, I asked whether the group was doing okay in terms of heatstroke, and the response was, "Yes, we'll go there on our own when it's a bit cooler. Let's skip the walk around the Imperial Palace Plaza and go to Meiji Shrine, which has a forest instead." So we omitted the Imperial Palace Plaza that we had originally planned to visit. On days when the temperature approaches 35 degrees, I make a point of asking about everyone's condition several times during the tour and adjusting the schedule as we go. Each person had prepared one bottle of water, but we stopped at a convenience store twice to buy more. During the tour, I also gave detailed information about Akihabara and Odaiba, which would be enjoyable places for the guests during their three days of self-guided exploration starting the next day, and they were very pleased.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAkasaka-mitsuke～Asakusa600JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Meiji Jingumae0JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku～Shibuya150JPY
    Total750JPY

    Tour Report by MINORUASAI

    I acquired national guide license in 2014, and I have been doing guide work full fledged since 2016. In my career before starting guide work, I was a business man and made more than 1,000 business trips both abroad and in Japan, and that experience is my foundation as a guide because I came to know so many places both abroad and in Japan. I have been taking care of both group and individual tourists, and the number of foreign guests I have taken care is close to 2,500 so far. I am based in Tokyo, but I can cover guide work in many prefectures throughout Japan. When I take care of foreign guests, my major concern is to listen attentively to them, find out what they want to know and do in Japan, and give them appropriate guiding in accordance with what I heard from my guests. I would like to provide tailor made tour as much as possible for every precious guest who kindly chose Japan as the tour destination.

    Request Booking

    Aug 1, 2025
    8
    898kendrap
    Great first day in Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Asai, our tour guide, made our…

    Jul 14, 2025
    Anette_V
    Perfect
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide Minoru Asai was very friendly and knowledgeable about culture,…

    Jun 30, 2025
    liammL2246HL
    Amazing experience
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing private tour with Minoru Asai! We…

    Jun 26, 2025
    394milesd
    Excellent guide making an excellent day in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A perfect day, tailored…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Harajuku Takeshita & Strolling around Akihabara

    Tokyo in One Day: Harajuku Takeshita & Strolling around Akihabara

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at the Hotel lobby
    • 10:35 Assistance purchasing SUICA (for adults) for foreign travelers at Ekitabi Concierge Tokyo Station Marunouchi North Exit
    • 10:45 Assistance purchasing SUICA (for children) for foreign travelers at the Marunouchi Underground North Midori no Madoguchi
    • 11:20 Commemorative photo with the Shinjuku Godzilla Head in the background, shopping at Don Quijote
    • 11:50 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 12:40 Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue, shopping at the Nintendo Official Store and Pokemon Center
    • 15:00 Strolling around Akihabara
    • 16:05 Disband in front of the Keiyo Line Tokyo Station ticket gate

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shibuya, Tsukiji, and Akihabara The guests arrived in Japan the previous day on a direct flight. On their first day they visited Tokyo DisneySea and were reportedly overwhelmed by the crowds, even on a weekday. They had no jet lag and slept soundly the night before, so they joined today's tour in perfect condition. Tokyo experienced its first extremely hot day of the year. We walked in the shade as much as possible and bought drinks from vending machines several times using a SUICA card to help prevent heatstroke. The purchase counter at the Pokémon Center in Shibuya had a very long line and took a lot of time, so it seemed we would not make the last-order time for a sushi lunch in Tsukiji. We therefore changed the final destination to Akihabara on short notice. Despite the unusual heat, the guests remained energetic and finished the tour well, which was a relief.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainJR Keiyo Line Shiomi Station～JR Keiyo Line Tokyo Station170JPY
    Section 2TrainJR Chuo Line Tokyo Station～JR Chuo Line Shinjuku Station210JPY
    Section 3TrainJR Yamanote Line Shinjuku Station～JR Yamanote Line Harajuku Station150JPY
    Section 4TrainJR Yamanote Line Harajuku Station～JR Yamanote Line Shibuya Station150JPY
    Section 5TrainTokyo Metro Ginza Line Shibuya Station～Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Kanda Station210JPY
    Section 6TrainJR Yamanote Line Kanda Station～JR Yamanote Line Akihabara Station150JPY
    Section 7TrainJR Yamanote Line Akihabara Station～JR Yamanote Line Tokyo Station150JPY
    Total1,190JPY

    Tour Report by Bruce

    Hello (Konnichiwa). My name is Masanori SUGANO. Most of my friends call me Bruce, so you can call me Bruce. It would be my pleasure to act as a guide for you as I have been a guide for over twenty years. I curate my tours to suit your quest for knowledge and make you laugh with Dad jokes as an ice breaker. I can add some of my experiences as seasoning since I’m a seasoned guide. I always gain a new perspective through my guests’ eyes, and that’s why I am passionate about my job.
    You can create your own itinerary, and when we meet, you can let me know what things you want to see. I am very flexible and can go off the beaten track on your request.
    Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. I am looking forward to meeting you.
    Thank you (Arigatou-gozaimasu).

    Request Booking

    Jul 2, 2026
    jamespmccormick
    Tripadvisor review: The Best Family-Friendly Tokyo Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Great Tokyo tour with Bruce!
    We booked a 6 hour…

    Jun 12, 2026
    716suzannab
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing experience
    Bruce was an amazing guide. He taught us some essential…

    May 27, 2026
    beaufordtjustice
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour of Tokyo with Bruce!
    My son and I had a…

    May 24, 2026
    A2151KImelissab
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Day out in Tokyo
    I enjoyed a solo guided tour of Tokyo…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Tokyo Tower

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Tokyo Tower

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00: Meet @ Hotel
    • 10:40: Shibuya Scramble Crossing・Hachiko
    • 11:00: Meiji Shrine
    • 12:15: Imperial Palace
    • 13:00: Lunch @ Aoyuzu Tora (Marunouchi Building)
    • 14:30: Sensoji Temple
    • 15:50: Tokyo Tower
    • 16:30: Disband @ Tokyo Tower

    What Does a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, Senso-ji, and Tokyo Tower The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. They had arrived in Japan the previous week and had already visited Kyoto and Hakone, and after sightseeing in Tokyo they planned to return home in July. At Meiji Shrine, they listened with great interest to explanations about the difference between shrines and temples (Shinto and Buddhism), as well as the Meiji Restoration and the achievements of Emperor Meiji. At the Imperial Palace, they showed interest in explanations such as how it had been Edo Castle, the residence of the shogun, before the Meiji Restoration, and the role of the emperor after World War II. At Senso-ji, they were interested in the Kaminarimon gate and Nakamise shopping street. After visiting Tokyo Tower, since they said they could shop, have a meal, and return to their Hotel on their own, we parted ways at Tokyo Tower. I responded according to the guests' wishes, so I believe they were satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHibiya～Shibuya600JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya～Harajuku150JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nijubashimae0JPY
    Section 4TrainTokyo～Ueno170JPY
    Section 5SubwayUeno～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 6SubwayAsakusa～Kamiyacho0JPY
    Total920JPY

    Tour Report by Seizo

    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

    Request Booking

    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 in One Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Okochi Sanso Villa

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Okochi Sanso Villa

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00　 Hotel
    • 12:30　 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 14:00　Arashiyama Monkey Park
    • 15:30　Tenryu-ji Garden ＞ Bamboo Forest
    • 16:00　Okochi Sanso Villa
    • 17:45　Hotel

    What Is a Private Kyoto Tour of Arashiyama and Monkey Park Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. One of the guests mentioned having climbed to the summit of Mount Fuji on July 1st. It made perfect sense that they wished to visit the Monkey Park today. After the Monkey Park, we passed through the Tenryu-ji garden and the bamboo grove on our way to Okochi Sanso Villa. The weather today was extremely humid, like being inside a steam sauna, so we cooled down indoors at a bread and espresso cafe before heading to Tenryu-ji. Afterward, we returned to the Hotel by JR and subway. It seems the school excursion season has finally ended, and today Arashiyama, especially the bamboo grove, was relatively uncrowded, which was wonderful. The guests were very pleased.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSaga-Arashiyama～Nijo200JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijo～Sanjo Keihan220JPY
    Total420JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Hotel meet
    • 9:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:00 Shibuya Crossing, Hachiko Statue
    • 11:50 Parco, Pokemon Center, etc.
    • 13:00 Lunch at Parco B1
    • 14:15 Asakusa
    • 15:00 Dismissal

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like on a Hot Summer Day? A Licensed Guide's Report It was an extremely hot day in Tokyo with temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius, and the guests, who had arrived only the day before from North America, were feeling a little tired. Taking this into account during the itinerary discussion, I made sure to include as many indoor locations where we could cool down as possible, and to take frequent breaks even when outdoors. The guests had only set aside a short time for this trip, and mentioned that next time they would like to stay for a longer period. They were very pleased when I explained how to use the subway, recommended places to visit, and told them about the projection mapping featuring Godzilla on the Metropolitan Government Building near the Hotel.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinjuku～Meiji Shrine180JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji Shrine～Shibuya180JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya～Asakusa260JPY
    Total620JPY

    Tour Report by kozee

    Hi ! I’m Kozee.
    I obtained license of guide interpreter in 2018 and started guiding in 2019 Jan.
    The reason why I got this license is that I have strong passion to introduce Japan to foreign people.
    Japan has a lot of attractions to be proud of in the world, fascinating historical places, culture, food, and beautiful nature like Mt.Fuji, and expertise that has been preserved through long history.
    As a guide, I always keep it on my mind how to satisfy my guest and make their trip unforgettable.
    I’m sure that I will be able to help you by making use of my extensive guiding experience.
    Why don’t you enjoy your trip in Japan with me.

    Request Booking

    Apr 2, 2025
    ianmW4480OY
    A day out with Kozee.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing tour with Kozee…

    Apr 1, 2025
    536maureent
    Kozee number guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Instagram Highlights Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our trip was wonderful,Kozee was the best…

    Mar 31, 2025
    Getaway23071133490
    A Wonderful Time with a Wonderful Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Off the Beaten Path 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kozee…

    May 20, 2024
    Norma_P
    Highly recommend
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour of Tokyo with our guide,…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.10:00 Meet up @Rihga Gran Kyoto
    • 2.10:30 @Nijo Castle
    • 3.12:10 @Kinkaku-ji
    • 4.13:55 Disband @Nonomiya Bus Stop (Bamboo Grove Path)

    Title: What Can You See in a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. Their requested itinerary included Arashiyama, Fushimi Inari, Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji, the Kyoto Imperial Palace, and Kiyomizu-dera. After meeting them at the Hotel, I showed them a map and we discussed the plan together, deciding on Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji, and Arashiyama. Since they wished to spend plenty of time in Arashiyama, I placed it last, handed them a map explaining the route back to the Hotel, and guided them so they could enjoy it at their own leisure. As one of the guests was fond of samurai, I also introduced Toei Kyoto Studio Park. Overall, they were very satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto～Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijojo-mae～Nishioji Oike220JPY
    Section 3BusNishioji Oike～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 4BusKinkakuji-michi～Nishinokyo Enmachi230JPY
    Section 5TrainEnmachi～Saga-Arashiyama190JPY
    Total1,130JPY

    Tour Report by Shoko

    I am an experienced guide, who live in Osaka. I have been a Government-Licensed Guide in English since 2018. I have already guided a lot of tourists overseas in Kansai Area, that is, in the vicinity of my prefecture, Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, and Himeji. I am especially good at guiding in Kansai Area with sufficient knowledge of history, culture and transportation. I have guided people ranging from a small group of one or two to a group of 20-50 people in a big bus, that is, a coach. I like delicious food, because Osaka is a city of Kuidaorre, which means that people in Osaka love to eat and never spend too much money on food. Therefore, as an Osakan, I will do my best to explore restaurants which serve most delicious foods in wherever I take to my guests.

    Request Booking

    Mar 31, 2026
    Michael A
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Perfectly customized tour
    Shoko San did an amazing job planning a…

    Mar 29, 2026
    judyl582
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Shoko was great
    Shoko was an excellent guide. From the moment she…

    Oct 8, 2025
    441gayh
    World Heritage Kyoto places with the best guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely perfect! SHOKO was…

    Oct 3, 2025
    Judi H
    Introduction to Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful tour with Shoko.
    She…

  • Osaka in One Day: @ Akashi Kaikyo Bridge & @ Kobe Shushinkan

    Osaka in One Day: @ Akashi Kaikyo Bridge & @ Kobe Shushinkan

    Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet @ Kobe Port Terminal
    • 09:45 @ Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
    • 11:00 @ Nunobiki Herb Garden
    • 12:15 @ Kobe Foreign Residences District
    • 13:00 @ Kobe Shushinkan
    • 14:00 @ Kikumasamune Sake Brewery Museum
    • 15:00 Dismiss @ Kobe Port Terminal

    What Is a Private Sake Brewery Tour in Japan Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of visitors, all of whom explored every spot with great interest and enthusiasm. At the shops in each location they purchased a variety of souvenirs, and at the sake brewery they enjoyed tasting and bought many bottles of sake. They were very pleased with all of the spots and gave many warm words of praise, saying that I had made "an excellent selection," which I greatly appreciated. The group also seemed to be very fond of Japan, so I was able to guide them in a pleasant and enjoyable atmosphere. Since we moved smoothly and had time to spare, I added one more spot and guided them to the Kikumasamune Sake Brewery, which had not been on the original itinerary, and they were delighted.

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

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

    This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
    I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
    real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
    if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

    Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
    that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
    and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
    foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
    Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
    explanation for these three foods.

    1) Tako-yaki
    Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
    octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
    2) Okonomi-yaki
    This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
    Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
    3) Kushi-katsu
    Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
    ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

    Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
    that you like them very much.

    I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
    and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
    great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

    Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
    Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
    Yama

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    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Diane_B
    Viator review: Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Yama was amazing!!
    Our tour guide…

    Jul 4, 2026
    Navigator661725
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful time!
    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…

  • Kyoto: @ Hotel & @ Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Kyoto: @ Hotel & @ Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 @ Hotel
    • 9:15-9:45 @ Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 10:10-10:45 @ Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • 11:00-12:10 @ Tenryu-ji Temple
    • 12:30-13:15 Lunch @ Washoku JOY Kinkaku-ji Branch
    • 13:20-14:00 @ Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 14:30 Dismissal @ Hotel

    Private One-Day Kyoto Tour for a Family Visiting Japan: A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Today they were checking out of their Hotel, so at the meeting point they brought their suitcases down to the lobby, checked them into the cloakroom, and then we set off. After the tour, they planned to head to Osaka. Everyone except one member of the group was wearing LA caps, making it immediately obvious that they were Dodgers fans. When I mentioned Shohei Ohtani, they were delighted. One of the guests looked at the Katsura River and asked, "Is this the river where the Battle of Toba-Fushimi took place?" I thought this must be someone well versed in Japanese history, but when it turned out they did not know Ashikaga Takauji, it seemed that was not quite the case. When I mentioned that the Kiyotaki Tunnel near Otagi Nenbutsu-ji is known as a haunted spot, one of the guests said they wanted to go there, which made me think it might be best not to bring up this topic too casually. While strolling through the Sogenchi Garden at Tenryu-ji, there was an incident where both of the guests got separated from the group. At Kinkaku-ji, they purchased a magnet with a picture of the Golden Pavilion on it. Since it was hot and humid, after touring Kinkaku-ji one of the guests in particular seemed quite worn out.

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

    Tour Report by Kaz

    Hi, thank you very much for choosing the JGA tour!

    My name is Kazuhiro Yoshida, please call me “Kaz”.

    I am an English-speaking National Licensed Tour Guide in Japan, and have been guiding mainly in Kyoto and other Kansai areas since April 2023. I have guided over 1,000 tours in total so far, and I am on my way to becoming one of the best English-speaking tour guides in Japan.

    I have a great passion to show people from all over the world, the deep histories and cultures of Japan, the country I truly love.
    I am focused to take you out on a tour that will become one of the best highlights of your entire trip.

    I am glad to have an opportunity to be your guide, and I hope that we can explore many hidden gems of Japan together!

    Request Booking

    May 19, 2026
    498stephenq
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    An enjoyable visit
    Really enjoyed our visit with Kaz. Friendly, informative, and…

    Apr 11, 2026
    V5131MFjodieh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kyoto morning tour with Kaz
    Kaz (Kazuhiro) guided my family in historic…

    Oct 14, 2025
    Scenic61154406959
    Great Historical Perspective
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoshida was excellent, he had a great knowledge of…

    Sep 29, 2025
    Jea L
    Excellent Tour of Kyoto with Kaz
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kaz was an excellent tour…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Peace Memorial Park & Itsukushima Shrine

    Hiroshima in One Day: Peace Memorial Park & Itsukushima Shrine

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

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at FAV Hiroshima
    • 9:20 Peace Memorial Park
    • 10:20 Peace Memorial Museum
    • 12:40 Lunch at Chinchikurin
    • 14:20 Itsukushima Shrine
    • 15:00 Omote-Sando Street and finish the tour

    # What Is a Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, joined by a friend living in Japan. When I asked where they would like to end the tour, they said they wanted to spend a relaxed time at Miyajima before heading back, so we visited the Peace Memorial Park and Museum in the morning. After noon, since some of the guests were getting hungry, we stopped at a convenience store, and we very nearly missed our JR train. At lunch, the guests shared some okonomiyaki, and they enjoyed it so much that they placed an additional order. Although it is the rainy season, there was no rain, and it was a hot and humid day that felt like summer.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusTanakamachi～Hondori220JPY
    Section 2BusPeace Memorial Park～Nishi-Hiroshima / Koi220JPY
    Section 3TrainNishi-Hiroshima～Miyajimaguchi330JPY
    Total770JPY

    Tour Report by Michi

    Hi. I’m Michi. I’m a national licensed tour guide in English.
    I want to introduce many faces and charms of Japan and make your stay in Japan more fascinating and satisfying.

    I was born and raised in Hiroshima. My first tour in English was as a volunteer guide for the visitors to my school when I was a junior high school student. It gave me a great opportunity to study about the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima.
    I spent my life in Hiroshima except for 6 years; 1 year in the UK as a student and 5 years working in Singapore and Malaysia. During this period I enjoyed meeting and talking with people from different cultural backgrounds.
    These experiences encouraged me to be a licensed tour guide.

    In Hiroshima, there are two famous World Heritage Sites, the Atomic Bomb Dome in the Hiroshima Peace Memorial & Itsukushima Shrine in Miyajima.
    I have experienced many tours of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum & Park since I was a junior high school student. I would like to introduce you to the a-bomb legacies that are still existing in the city and the stories under the mushroom cloud.
    I also would like to share time with you on a historic island, Miyajima. There is one of the most famous Shinto shrines, the Itsukushima Shrine. We can share an enjoyable time by exploring a sacred atmosphere, tradition, nature, food, etc.

    I am also an official ‘A-bomb legacy successor’ designated by the City of Hiroshima. An A-bomb Legacy Successor is a memory keeper of the A-bomb survivors. To ensure that the A-bomb survivors’ experiences and desires for peace are faithfully inherited and shared with as many people as possible, the City has started a three-year training program for official ‘A-bomb Legacy Successors. ‘

    Let me support your stay in Japan and I look forward to showing you the best of Japan!
    Hope to see you soon!

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    Jan 2, 2025
    georgeweller
    Excellent tour by a very knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Michi-San was an…

    Nov 8, 2024
    Andrew M
    Awesome experience! Michi was the best guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Awesome…

    Nov 8, 2024
    Andrew_M
    Awesome day! Michi was an amazing guide!
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Awesome day!…

    Sep 16, 2024
    alexandermM7944BB
    Day tour with Michi
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Michi, our guide, was amazing!…