Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Akasaka-mitsuke Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Akasaka-mitsuke Station & Shibuya Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:30 Meeting place: Hotel New Otani Tokyo Garden Tower
    • 13:40 Depart Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 14:10 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • Lunch: Hidakaya
    • 15:10 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 15:30 Arrive Nippori Station
    • Nippori Yanaka Ginza
    • 16:00 Depart Sendagi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 16:10 Arrive Nezu Station
    • Nezu Nezu Shrine
    • 17:00 Depart Nezu Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 17:30 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Rest: Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • Takeshita Street
    • 18:30 Depart Harajuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 18:40 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 19:40 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 20:00 Arrive Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • 20:00 Disband: Akasaka-mitsuke Station

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Yanaka, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya The guests were visitors from Europe, and it was their first time in Japan. They arrived at Haneda Airport this morning and took a limousine bus to their Hotel. They planned to stay in Japan for a short period, visiting Mount Fuji and Hakone in addition to spots within the city. They said they were looking forward to Japanese food and touring anime-related places. Although they had only arrived this morning, they walked around energetically. It was a tour under quite hot and humid weather. Asakusa was as crowded as ever. There were questions such as "When was this temple built?", "Is it always this crowded?", and "Do all Japanese people believe in Buddhism?" There were also questions like "What kind of teaching is Buddhism?" Seeing many people wearing kimono, they also asked, "Do Japanese people wear kimono in daily life?" Since they had not had breakfast, they had ramen at a ramen shop. After that, we went from Yanaka Ginza to Nezu Shrine. At Yanaka Ginza, they said, "Now I understand what old Japanese townscapes look like." At Nezu Shrine, they passed through the torii gates and took photos, asking, "What are torii gates for?" At Meiji Shrine, there were questions such as "What kind of religion is Shinto? How is Buddhism different from Shinto?" They commented, "It's wonderful that such a green place exists in the center of the city." We took a break at a café, where they ordered beer. At Takeshita Street, they bought many souvenirs for their family, such as T-shirts, dolls, and hats. After that, we moved to Shibuya. At the Scramble Crossing, they commented, "Why are there so many people?" and "It reminds me of Piccadilly Circus." We took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. There were also questions and comments such as "The town is so orderly and clean," "Everyone is so polite," and "There are no trash cans anywhere in town." Finally, I saw them off at Akasaka-mitsuke Station, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAkasaka-mitsuke Station~Asakusa Station209JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa Station~Ueno Station178JPY
    Section 3TrainUeno Station~Nippori Station146JPY
    Section 4SubwaySendagi Station~Nezu Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwayNezu Station~Meiji-jingumae Station209JPY
    Section 6TrainHarajuku Station~Shibuya Station146JPY
    Section 7SubwayShibuya Station~Akasaka-mitsuke Station178JPY
    Total1,244JPY

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Senso-ji Temple & Shibuya Crossing

    Tokyo in One Day: Senso-ji Temple & Shibuya Crossing

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meeting up @Hyatt Regency
    • 10:20 Senso-ji Temple
    • 11:40 Ueno Hirokoji Pearl Shop (guest request)
    • 12:30 Imperial Palace Nijubashi Bridge
    • 13:10 Omotesando
    • 13:30 Lunch @Kyushu Jangara
    • 14:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:10 Shibuya Crossing
    • 15:30 End @Muji

    What Is a Private Tokyo Family Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Ueno, Harajuku, and More The guests were a family visiting from North America. One member held all the decision-making authority and was a very practical person who preferred to keep the itinerary moving without waiting, but at the request of another family member who was not present on this trip, they purchased pearl accessories at Ueno Hirokoji. The guests listened with great interest to explanations about history, the imperial system, the social system, and views on religion, and they asked many questions. One of the guests seemed to have many items they wanted to buy, so I shared as much information as I knew and looked up shops that carry those items online. Another guest was quite shy, but since they mentioned they liked ramen, I took them to Jangara Ramen in Harajuku, and they were delighted, saying it was the most delicious ramen they had ever eaten. I believe each of the guests enjoyed the day in their own way.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNishi-Shinjuku~Asakusa530JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa~Ueno Hirokoji180JPY
    Section 3TrainNaka-Okachimachi~Nijubashimae180JPY
    Section 4TrainSakuradamon~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku~Shibuya150JPY
    Total1,220JPY

    Hi,
    Thank you for contacting the Japan Guide Association to request a licensed guide for your upcoming visit to Japan. My name is Motoko Tanaka. I’m so happy to be assigned to you.
    Let me introduce myself. I was born and raised in Tokyo, so it is nice to hear that you are excited about your visit to this wonderful city. There is much to be excited about here in Tokyo. I have really enjoyed guiding in Tokyo and the surrounding areas for more than 10 years.
    I live with my husband and a dog named Alice. She was a rescue dog and I adopted her about 4 years ago. Now she is a very precious family member. I have two daughters, the elder one has a child and the younger has a aroma shop in a town near Mr. Fuji. I sometimes visit there with Alice.
    I look forward to hearing from you and working with you to create a special day.
    Regards,
    Motoko

    Apr 25, 2026
    catvila
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Primeira vez em Tóquio
    A Motoko foi excelente para nos guiar pelos…

    Apr 22, 2026
    72breannaj
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour highly recommend! And loved our guide
    We had an amazing…

    Apr 17, 2026
    denisemD3032GY
    Tripadvisor review: Kawagoe 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide (Tokyo/Kawagoe dep)
    Tokyo walking tour
    Our guide Motoko was so polite &…

    Apr 14, 2026
    Dennis_M
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Very nice and very…
    Very nice and very…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Kyoto Station: Dismissal

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Kyoto Station: Dismissal

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Mercure Kyoto Station
    • 9:40 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 11:10-12:10 Nijo Castle
    • 12:35 Lunch at Hanamakiya
    • 13:20 Kinkaku-ji
    • 14:45 Kyoto Station: Assistance with Shinkansen ticket issuance
    • 15:00 Kyoto Station: Dismissal

    Title: What Is a Rainy-Day Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. Unfortunately it rained heavily all day, so we adjusted part of the itinerary. Since they wished to visit places that felt like traditional Kyoto, we toured Fushimi Inari Taisha, Nijo Castle, and Kinkaku-ji. Perhaps thanks to the heavy rain, the sites were relatively uncrowded, which was fortunate. On the way back through the Senbon Torii, there was not a single other person walking, so they were delighted to be able to take many photos. For lunch we went to a soba restaurant near Kinkaku-ji, and although it is usually a time when there is a line, we were seated without waiting and they enjoyed the soba. It seemed there was some trouble with issuing their bullet train tickets for the next day, so at the end of the tour I helped them issue the tickets at Kyoto Station, and the tour concluded. Despite the unfortunate weather, I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari~Sanjo220JPY
    Section 3SubwayKeihan Sanjo~Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 4BusNijojo-mae~Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 5BusKinkakuji-michi~Kitaoji Bus Terminal230JPY
    Section 6SubwayKitaoji~Kyoto260JPY
    Total1,310JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:30 Meet @ Ryokan Sakanoue
    • 2. 10:30-11:00 Visit Kinkaku-ji
    • 3. 11:30-12:15 Visit Ginkaku-ji
    • 4. 12:15-13:00 Stroll along the Philosopher's Path, visit Honen-in
    • 5. 13:30-14:00 Visit Nijo Castle
    • 6. 14:30-15:15 Visit Fushimi Inari
    • 7. 15:45 Disband @ Gion-Shijo

    What's a Rainy One-Day Private Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They had only one day in Kyoto, so the itinerary combined the classic highlights of Kinkaku-ji and Fushimi Inari with Ginkaku-ji and the Philosopher's Path. It rained all day, an unfortunate turn of weather, with occasional downpours. When I asked whether they still wanted to follow the planned course, the guests said they did not mind the rain, so we visited everything as scheduled. The guests seemed to enjoy walking in the rain, and they were especially impressed by the garden at Ginkaku-ji and the view from above.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKeihan Sanjo~Fushimi Inari220JPY
    Section 2TrainKeihan Fushimi Inari~Gion-Shijo220JPY
    Total440JPY

    My name is Shoji and I’m a tour guide in Kyoto, an ancient capital of Japan for more than one thousand years until the mid 19th century.
    I have been doing this work since 2019 covering not only Kyoto but also its surrounding areas like Nara , Osaka and Shiga.
    I am very much interested in Japanese history, culture and traditional arts.
    Kyoto and the Kansai region are rich with many heritage sites of historical and cultural features.
    I am sure that I can provide the guests with good insight and help them appreciate the charms of our wonderful city.

    May 23, 2026
    Amber_D
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great walking tour in Kyoto!
    Shoji was a great guide around Kyoto.…

    Jun 25, 2025
    Safari35155142765
    Peaceful and perfect temple guided tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Brilliant private guided tour of Kyoto…

    Jun 22, 2025
    Global136391
    Shoji Ogawa Made Kyoto Come Alive!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    If you’re ever in Kyoto, you…

    Jun 9, 2025
    Amy_R
    Wonderful Nara tour
    Viator review: Private Nara Tour with Government Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Kyoto Departure)
    We had such a wonderful…

  • Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Meet at Hotel Fairfield by Marriott Osaka Namba, departure➡Walk to Namba Yasaka Shrine➡Take JR to Osaka Castle➡Take subway to Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel ~ Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan➡Take subway to Japan Pop Culture on the 9th floor of Shinsaibashi Daimaru Department Store➡Walk to Dotonbori, disband (20:00)

    Osaka Private Tour Report: What Can You See in a Day at Osaka Castle, Kaiyukan Aquarium, and Dotonbori? The guests were a group visiting from North America. All of them were big fans of Japanese anime, Nintendo characters, and figurines, so much so that at Osaka Castle they spent more time at Miraiza than at the castle itself. On the way to Kaiyukan Aquarium, the moment they spotted the giant Ferris wheel, they said they wanted to ride it! At Tempozan Marketplace, they bought so many of their favorite popcorn flavors from an Osaka-born popcorn shop that they could barely fit it all in their backpacks. At Kaiyukan Aquarium, they enjoyed themselves for over two hours. Finally, since they were very hungry, I guided them to Dotonbori (within walking distance of their accommodation) and we said goodbye.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainJR Namba Station~JR Osakajokoen Station190JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Osakako290JPY
    Section 3SubwayOsakako~Shinsaibashi290JPY
    Total770JPY

    Hello! I’m Emi (meaning “smile” or “laugh” in Japanese) , born, raised, and living in Osaka for more than half a century. I’ve been working as a government-licensed tour guide since 2018 after early retirement from a company. My favorite things are hiking, cooking, eating, laughing, learning different cultures, jazz, playing the chromatic harmonica, etc.
    I’ll provide you with a few suggested itineraries first, but of course I’ll be happy to provide you with a flexible itinerary according to your preferences and requests and to help you enjoy your stay in Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kobe, etc. I can also offer a tour visiting not only popular destinations but also hidden or less-crowded places.
    I’m looking forward to meeting and guiding you!!

    Jul 17, 2026
    TROY_R
    Viator review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    This was a perfect tour…
    This was a perfect tour of…

    Sep 18, 2025
    L9831WKjenniferb
    4 hour Kyoto tour with English speaking guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely afternoon with English…

    Aug 15, 2025
    SuperGC68
    Great value
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a two day 6hr tour with our guide…

    Jul 4, 2025
    Inspire64445626178
    Delightful day with Emi
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a delightful day with our guide…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Hotel Kyoto & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Hotel Kyoto & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel Kyoto
    • 11:00 Kiyomizu-dera Temple Sannenzaka Ninenzaka Koshin-do Ishibei-koji Alley
    • 12:00 Yasaka Shrine Gion Pontocho
    • 13:00 Nishiki Market
    • 13:50 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 14:10 Here, we will guide you on how to get back, and the tour will end

    Can You See Kiyomizu-dera and Fushimi Inari in One Day in Kyoto? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They had two days in Kyoto and wanted to move efficiently, so we walked at a brisk pace from Kiyomizu-dera all the way to Fushimi Inari. Along the way, one of the guests bought a kitchen knife, and another became fond of matcha and purchased matcha powder, a bamboo whisk, and a bamboo tea scoop. The guests also mentioned that they would like to return to Nishiki Market. After explaining how to get back and arranging our plans for the next day, we ended the tour at Fushimi Inari. I am a little concerned about the weather tomorrow.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKarasuma Oike~Shijo220JPY
    Section 2BusShijo Karasuma~Kiyomizu-michi230JPY
    Section 3TrainShijo~Kyoto220JPY
    Section 4TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Total820JPY

    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.

    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…

  • Kyoto: (leave) & **Tour end**

    Kyoto: (leave) & **Tour end**

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:50 Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion)
    • 10:40 (leave)
    • 11:00 Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
    • 11:20 Tenryuji Temple
    • 12:00 (lunch)
    • 12:40 (leave)
    • 13:15 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 14:00 (leave)
    • 14:15 Gion
    • 15:00 (leave)
    • 15:10 Nijojo Castle
    • 15:50 **Tour end**

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Kyoto's Temples Like? A Licensed Guide's Report 1. While waiting at Nijo Castle in Kyoto, I received a call from the guests at 9:20 saying they were waiting in front of Nijo Castle, so I moved by car with the driver and picked them up. It turned out that the guests were staying at a Hotel near Nijo Castle, which was different from the one initially communicated. 2. At Kinkaku-ji, the guests purchased ornaments and magnets. 3. At Tenryu-ji, the guests enjoyed the hydrangeas and lotus flowers, which were in full bloom. 4. Although I had planned for rest breaks, the group did not need to use the restroom, so the schedule progressed faster than expected. We arrived at Nijo Castle 20 minutes earlier than planned, and finished the tour after guiding the group through Nijo Castle.

    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 !!

    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

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:30 Meet up @ Kyoto Station
    • 2. 10:00 Guide to Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 3. 11:30 Guide to Kinkaku-ji
    • 4. 13:30 Lunch @ Ichiran
    • 5. 14:15 Guide to Kiyomizu-dera
    • 6. 15:45 Disband @ Kyoto Station

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a private one-day tour of Kyoto for guests visiting from North America. The guests were in Japan to attend an international academic conference in Nagoya and made time for sightseeing in Kyoto in between. I guided them to Fushimi Inari Taisha, where I explained how the fundamental spirit of Shinto permeates Japanese culture, described the background of the Inari shrine, and led them through the "Senbon Torii" gates, testing their luck along the way, which made for an enjoyable visit. From the Inari shrine, we moved on to the next destination, Kinkaku-ji, where I explained Buddhism and the history of how Kinkaku-ji was once destroyed by fire, and they thoroughly enjoyed the golden Shariden pavilion shining brilliantly. After Kinkaku-ji, we moved to Nishiki Market for lunch, where they had ramen, and finally took a taxi directly to Kiyomizu-dera, where they captured the scenery glowing with fresh green foliage on camera before heading down. Since the guests wanted to return to Nagoya by Shinkansen at 4:00 p.m., we hurried to Kyoto Station, where we parted ways. The guests were full of curiosity, and it made for an enjoyable day of guiding.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto Station~Inari Station150JPY
    Section 2TrainInari Station~Enmachi Station200JPY
    Section 3BusNishinokyo-Enmachi Station~Kinkakuji-michi Station230JPY
    Section 4BusKinkakuji-michi Station~Kawaramachi-Shijo Station230JPY
    Section 5BusKiyomizuzaka Station~Kyoto Station230JPY
    Total1,040JPY

    After a rather long teaching experience at Japanese college, I converted my career about 6 years ago into working as a tour guide for the tourists visiting Japan.
    As my career overseas, I’ve been in the UN and the Japanese Embassy, all in the USA, totaling more than 6 years.
    And then I had made a big change in my career from a diplomat to an academic researcher. For that career to achieve, I studied abroad and won a doctorate degree in linguistics from Indiana University and landed a teaching position at college in Japan.
    With all these interesting and exciting experiences I’ve made myself ready to enrich your tour and make it both enjoyable and worthwhile.

    Apr 26, 2026
    39ferdinandr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Exceptional and entertaining
    Great tour better the tour guide Toshi.

    Apr 9, 2026
    X1429XKclaudiam
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sehr zu empfehlen
    Wir haben als Familie diese 6-stundige Tour durch Kyoto…

    Jun 28, 2025
    WilliamAlfonso_R
    Toshi is a very eloquent, knowledgeable, and diligent tour guide.
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Toshi was…

    May 30, 2025
    Z
    ZevP5
    Best Tour Guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the best guide!! He was so…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel – 11:00 Meiji Shrine – 12:30 Harajuku Takeshita Street – 14:00 Lunch – 15:00 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace – 16:10 Disband at Asakusa

    **Can You Do a Private Tokyo History Tour with a Licensed Guide? A Guide's Report** This was a private Tokyo tour for a group visiting from North America. We met at the hotel lobby, starting 30 minutes later than originally planned, and I began with a lecture on the history of Tokyo and Japan. One of the guests was going to major in history, and asked surprisingly knowledgeable and specialized questions, such as about the Boshin War and "Who was it that warmed Oda Nobunaga's straw sandals?" — which took me by surprise. At Meiji Shrine, all of the guests dedicated papers on which they had written their wishes as well as ema votive plaques, and purchased omamori charms as well. It was a moment that revealed a devout side of the guests.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayRoppongi~Yoyogi178JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Otemachi209JPY
    Section 3SubwayOtemachi~Jimbocho178JPY
    Section 4SubwayJimbocho~Otemachi178JPY
    Section 5SubwayOtemachi~Asakusa178JPY
    Total921JPY

    Welcome to Japan. My name is Michio, your tour guide in Tokyo and Japan. I was born and grown up in Tokyo, and still living in western suburb of Tokyo with my wife, except for 10 years outside of Japan travelling and living in 60 countries. So I might have visited your country and still remember a few words.
    Japan has unique history, nature and culture, and there are plenty of secrets and wonders behind them such as food culture, Zen and Ninja.
    So please explore and discover the hidden and most beautiful part of Japan together. Let’s experience!

    Oct 25, 2025
    Carla_G
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking…
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking tour was fantastic! Michio…

    Oct 24, 2025
    410trishab
    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 10/10 — Outstanding Tour with Michio and Nobuhiko!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from…

    Oct 11, 2025
    GoPlaces52694049181
    We enjoyed our time in Tokyo with Michio our tour guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We…

    Oct 10, 2025
    PiscesV
    Sushi for breakfast at 630am? Yes please!!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

  • Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Meet up
    • 13:10-14:00 Travel Higashi-Umeda to Tanimachi 4-chome 240 yen
    • 14:00-16:10 Hokoku Shrine Osaka Castle area Souvenir shop inside Miraiza Osaka
    • Figure Museum 
    • 16:10 Disband (return to hotel by taxi)

    What Is a Private Afternoon Tour of Osaka Castle Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests arrived at their hotel in Osaka from Kyoto at 11:30. A message came asking whether the tour scheduled from 13:30 could start earlier, so I arrived at 13:00, but in the end we all set off just after 13:10. The guests seemed tired even from the walk to Osaka Castle. After stopping by Hokoku Shrine, since Osaka Castle was crowded we decided not to go inside, taking photos around it instead, and did some shopping at Miraiza Osaka, where there was a good variety of souvenirs. After that, they wanted to visit the figure museum on the first basement level. The admission was 1,000 yen per person, and when the guests offered to pay for me, I showed my guide license on the off chance it might help, and I was admitted for free. One of the guests still had plenty of energy, so I suggested going from Ebisucho Station to Tsutenkaku as a place that could be reached without much walking, and we started heading there, but ultimately changed plans and took a taxi back to the hotel. The guests were close and enjoyed themselves, singing songs and taking photos in playful poses, but one of them seemed not to have slept much and found walking tiring. After this, they plan to visit Hiroshima and Nara and then return to Osaka, and they asked me for recommendations for sightseeing in Nara. I got the impression their schedule may be quite packed.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHigashi-Umeda~Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Total240JPY

    Hi! I’m an official English guide in Wakayama prefecture. I’m also a national guide as well. I’d like to expand my guide area to help tourists.
    The town of Osaka offers a different atmosphere than Tokyo. I like both exciting Osaka and nature-filled Wakayama Prefecture.
    If you stay in Osaka for 3 days, you can go to Koyasan for one day, or even for a day trip, so I recommend sightseeing at Koyasan.
    If you are tired of the hustle and bustle of the big city, the nature of Koyasan will relax you.
    I will introduce you to the unique culture, history and must-see sights.

    Jun 23, 2026
    Shelley_E
    Viator review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    There is much to do in…
    There is much to…

    May 28, 2026
    Duncan_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Great Tour of Kyoto
    The tour was both very informative and…

    May 28, 2026
    ignaciosilenzi
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Koyasan with Miyuki
    Miyuki was…

    May 23, 2026
    189mirjamf
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Grandioser Einblick in eine fremde Kultur
    Sehr nette und…