Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0900 Hotel Tokyo Meet up
    • 0945 Tokyo Station　Purchase SUICA　～　Gyoko-dori Avenue　～　Marunouchi Building Matsugui　～　Tatsumi Yagura Turret
    • 1115 Tsukiji Outer Market　Lunch at Sushizanmai conveyor belt sushi　～　Kabukiza Theatre　～　Ginza 4-chome Intersection
    • 1250 Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    • 1400 Asakusa　Sensoji Temple　Nakamise　Asakusa Shrine
    • 1540 Akihabara　Explain the way back and disband

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like for a Group? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. After Tokyo, they planned to travel to Hakone, Kyoto, and Hiroshima. They had once been close neighbors and friends. Since they wanted to explore Shibuya and Harajuku on their own, the itinerary was set to focus mainly on the eastern side of the city. Every location felt less crowded than usual. We went to Tsukiji for a meal, but it was difficult to find a place that could seat the whole group. We managed to get seats at a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant (originally we were fine splitting into two, but in the end everyone sat together), and it was a first-time experience for all of them. They mainly enjoyed salmon and tuna. We ended up spending quite a bit of time there. In Asakusa, they purchased a kitchen knife at a specialty shop and did some shopping for T-shirts and other items. After the itinerary had already been decided, a request came up to add Akihabara at the end. In any case, it was a hot and humid day, and the guests each replenished themselves with about three bottles of water.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Tokyo208JPY
    Section 2Free PassNijubashimae～Hibiya～Tsukiji900JPY
    Section 3Free PassGinza～Ueno-hirokoji～Ueno-okachimachi～Iidabashi0JPY
    Section 4Free PassIidabashi～Ueno-okachimachi～Ueno-hirokoji～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 5Free PassAsakusa～Suehirocho0JPY
    Total1,108JPY

    Tour Report by Ted

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

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

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

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

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

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

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

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

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

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 08:55 Meet at Sotetsu Fresa Inn Tokyo Kyobashi
    • 2. 09:20 Tsukiji (Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, Outer Market)
    • 3. 11:15 Asakusa (Nakamise Shopping Street, Senso-ji Temple)
    • 4. 13:50 Meiji Shrine
    • 5. 14:35 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 6. 15:10 Disband at Tokyo Station

    What Is a Private Tour with a Licensed Japan Guide Like? A Guide's Report Before the tour started, I asked about their interests and decided on the destinations, and since I was able to guide them as planned, I believe the guests were satisfied. The guests were visitors to Japan, and because the weather was as hot and humid as midsummer, I kept the pace slow and relaxed to avoid overexertion. As a result, it took a little longer than scheduled, but I believe the guests were able to enjoy the day at their own pace. They mentioned this was their second and third time in Japan respectively, but they shared that they made many new discoveries and had a wonderful time.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainYakuendai～Kyobashi828JPY
    Section 2SubwayKyobashi～Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 3SubwayHigashi-ginza～Asakusa220JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa～Meiji-jingumae252JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku～Shibuya146JPY
    Section 6SubwayShibuya～Tokyo209JPY
    Section 7TrainTokyo～Yakuendai650JPY
    Total2,483JPY

    Tour Report by Nobu

    Hi, I am Nobu, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English).
    I have been an English guide in Tokyo area since January 2017.
    Tokyo is a wonderful city, and you may enjoy this city by yourselves.
    Even so, I recommend you go around with a guide, especially if it is your first time visit to Tokyo.
    A good guide will help you to understand about Tokyo and Japan as well as how to use convenient but complicated public transportations more effectively.
    I am glad if I can help you to make your tour more enjoyable.
    I am looking forward to meeting you in Tokyo soon!
    Nobu

    Request Booking

    Jun 2, 2026
    amandavW9846AW
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Tokyo day trip!
    We had a wonderfull day with Nobu! He…

    May 25, 2026
    Matthew_C
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nobu was an excellent and…
    Nobu was an excellent and informative guide…

    May 24, 2026
    Diane D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Pleasant Intro to Tokyo
    Nobu was an experienced and informative guide.…

    Apr 28, 2026
    GrandTour57165664797
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Awesome!
    It was our first visit to Japan. Nobu was very knowledgeable…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel pickup ⇒ Arashiyama by Hankyu train ⇒ Monkey Park ⇒ Stroll around Arashiyama ⇒ To Karasuma by Randen via Saiin and Hankyu ⇒ Nishiki Market

    What Is a Private Family Day Tour of Kyoto's Arashiyama Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, who had been living in Asia for the past few years and were about to return to their home region the following month. As I had also lived in Asia for four years, we were able to share many enjoyable stories, which was wonderful. With the enjoyment of the younger members of the group in mind, I took them to the Arashiyama Monkey Park. I was delighted that they had fun at the amusement area and were thrilled to see the monkeys. What impressed me was that, despite being of the current generation, none of them were using smartphones. There was constant conversation among the group, which was truly wonderful. Recently, it has become common for family members to be together yet each absorbed in their own mobile devices playing games, and I had grown rather weary of that. When I asked, I was told that the family simply does not hand out mobile devices, and I was deeply impressed by such a wonderful philosophy. They planned to travel to Tokyo the day after next and then return to Asia.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKarasuma～Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 2TrainArashiyama～Saiin250JPY
    Section 3TrainSaiin～Karasuma170JPY
    Total660JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

    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!

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 12:00 Meet @ Hotel Kobe Sannomiya PREMIER
    • 2. 12:40 @ Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden
    • 3. 15:00 @ Sorakuen Garden
    • 4. 15:50 @ Kobe Motomachi Shopping Street and Nankinmachi
    • 5. 16:50 Dismissal @ Hankyu Railway Kobe Sannomiya Station West Exit

    What Is a Private Kobe Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Herb Gardens, Sorakuen, and Nankinmachi Today's guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Europe (originally from the Middle East). The most challenging part of the day was simply meeting up. The listed meeting point was a hotel in Sannomiya, Kobe, so I went there and asked at the front desk, but they said there was no guest registered under the name I had. I tried contacting the guests via a messaging app, but the messages were not read. I also called, but could not reach them. As the tour start time passed, I contacted [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) as well. Eventually, a message came through the messaging app asking, "How do we get to the hotel?" I asked where they were and told them I would come to them, but with the next message they had moved to a different spot. I asked them to please stay put, and I ended up running around trying to find them, which was quite a struggle. The guests sent me several photos of their surroundings, and I finally realized they were standing in front of a different hotel in Sannomiya, Kobe. When I asked, it turned out they were staying at a hotel in Osaka and had come to Sannomiya Station in Kobe by train. I mentioned that Sannomiya Station would have been a better meeting point, and they explained that the meeting point had been decided by a travel agency in Europe. On Himeji tours, the meeting point is sometimes set at a hotel near Himeji Station where the guests are not actually staying, but since today's hotel was not especially close to the station, I had assumed they were staying there. In any case, once we were finally able to meet, we started the tour. We visited the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, Sorakuen Garden, the Motomachi shopping street, and Nankinmachi (Chinatown), and ended the tour at the west exit of Sannomiya Station in Kobe. The guests were very enthusiastic about taking photos, so the tour ran quite long, but they thoroughly enjoyed the day.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Subway[Kobe Municipal Subway Sannomiya] Station～[Kobe Municipal Subway Shin-Kobe] Station110JPY
    Section 2Subway[Kobe Municipal Subway Shin-Kobe] Station～[Kobe Municipal Subway Kenchomae] Station110JPY
    Total220JPY

    Tour Report by Norio

    Hello, my name is Norio Oki, a Government-Certified Tour Guide in Japan.
    I specialize in guiding visitors through the beautiful and historic regions of Himeji and Kobe.

    My expertise includes Japanese history, traditional culture, castles, and sake. I enjoy sharing not only facts, but also the stories and spirit behind each place.

    In Himeji, I offer guided tours of Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden, Shoshazan Engyoji Temple, and Nadagiku Sake Brewery.
    In Kobe, I guide guests through the Nada Sake Breweries area, Mt. Rokko, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, Harborland, Meriken Park, the Kitano District, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, and the lively Motomachi Shopping Street.

    Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local experiences, I will create a personalized tour tailored to your interests.

    If you’re planning to visit Himeji or Kobe, I would be delighted to be your guide.
    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Request Booking

    Jul 7, 2026
    77guye
    The best way to experience Himeji Castle
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    What a great way to…

    May 30, 2026
    karenpG5549XU
    Loved our tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour with Norio, would highly…

    May 28, 2026
    TrailBlazer741528
    Kobe Variety.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our delightful guide, Norio, was knowledgeable and a master at…

    May 23, 2026
    sarahpR5911DJ
    Himeji castle with Norio
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learnt lots about Himeji castle and it…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: @ Osaka Castle & @ Umeda Sky Building

    Osaka in Half a Day: @ Osaka Castle & @ Umeda Sky Building

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet @ Courtyard by Marriott Shin-Osaka
    • 10:15 @ Osaka Castle
    • 12:15 @ Umeda Sky Building
    • 13:15 Disband @ JR Osaka Station

    Title: What's a Private Osaka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle and Umeda Sky Building The guests moved smoothly throughout the day. Although the weather was unfortunately poor, the sightseeing spots were less crowded as a result, allowing for a thorough visit. The guests toured with great interest and curiosity, taking many photos and videos. At Osaka Castle and the Umeda Sky Building, they enjoyed selecting and purchasing souvenirs for family and friends. After visiting the Umeda Sky Building, the guests expressed a wish to enjoy a meal and some shopping, so I guided them to the department stores and dining areas around JR Osaka Station, where we parted ways. The guests also listened attentively and with great interest to my explanations about the morning and evening congestion on Japan's trains and subways, as well as the cleanliness of Japan's roads. This private tour was arranged through [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides serving all 47 prefectures.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShin-Osaka～Morinomiya290JPY
    Section 2TrainMorinomiya～Osaka170JPY
    Total460JPY

    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

    Request Booking

    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 Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:25 (Please refer to the special notes for the delayed start time) Meet at hotel 11:00 Fushimi Inari 12:20 Kinkaku-ji 14:00 Nishiki Market (lunch) 15:20 Gion
    • 16:25 Tour ends

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like With a Licensed Guide? A Guide's Report According to the group's representative, several agents were involved between [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) and the guests, so their hotel information had not been conveyed accurately, and I ended up waiting for nearly 20 minutes in the lobby of a different hotel. One of the guests emailed [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/), and it turned out the hotel was different. After receiving a message from the [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/) coordinator, I ran to a hotel located on the exact opposite side of the Kamo River. The very first meeting was quite hectic. In the past, there had been cases where another agent was involved between me and the guests and communication did not go smoothly, but we had always somehow managed to meet at the hotel. This time, I could hardly believe it was a completely different hotel. Since tour requests come from many different places and through many different routes, it made me a little uneasy to think that various cases like this might continue to arise. The group, visiting Japan for the first time from Europe, worked at the same workplace. English was a foreign language for all of us, but we were able to communicate well. We quickly discussed the destinations and visited four places. The photo was taken at Kinkaku-ji Temple.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSanjo Keihan～Fushimi Inari220JPY
    Section 2TrainInari～Enmachi200JPY
    Section 3BusEnmachi～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 4BusKinkakuji-michi～Kitaoji Bus Terminal230JPY
    Section 5SubwayKitaoji～Shijo260JPY
    Total1,140JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

    Request Booking

    Jul 24, 2026
    Trail65429092687
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Tour
    Kazua Sumi is a very accomplished guide.He has deep…

    Jul 23, 2026
    489caelinp
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Guided Tour
    My friend and I had a great experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    margaretsM7923ON
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Great way to see Kyoto
    Wonderful tour and exceptional guide.

    Jul 9, 2026
    Sandra_B
    Kazuo was great and…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazuo was great and provided…

  • Hiroshima in Half a Day: Ujina Port & Daiganji Temple

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: Ujina Port & Daiganji Temple

    Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:45 Meet at Ujina Port · Tour begins – Explanation of precautions and tour itinerary, distribution of Miyajima materials, Q&A
    • 11:25 Departure from Ujina Port
    • 11:54 Arrival at Miyajima Pier
    • 11:55 Explanation of Taira no Kiyomori Statue, Three Most Scenic Spots of Japan Monument, World Cultural Heritage Monument
    • 12:10　Stroll along Omotesando
    • 12:20　Omotenashi Toilet – Short break, torii miniature, water refill
    • 12:40 Visit Itsukushima Shrine
    • 13:10　Visit Daiganji Temple
    • 13:25　Visit Miyajima Folk History Museum　(Watch video on Miyajima and Taira no Kiyomori)
    • 14:00　Five-story Pagoda. Visit Toyokuni Shrine
    • 14:15　etto Miyajima Exchange Hall – Short break
    • 14;25　Stroll along Machiya-dori
    • 14;45　Dismissal at Miyajima Pier (End of tour)
    • Guests board the Miyajima – Peace Park (World Heritage Route) from 14:45 to 15:30, and the guide returns home on the same ferry

    What Is a Private Miyajima and Itsukushima Shrine Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The group joined for a fairly fast-paced tour, but they enjoyed it very much. When it was time to part, everyone in the group thanked me with big smiles. One of the guests, originally from Japan and later based in North America, had a strong wish for another member of the group to understand and truly experience the wonderful aspects of Japan, such as its culture and the way people interact. That wish was met with an equally warm response. The guests were deeply impressed by Itsukushima Shrine, the history of Taira no Kiyomori, and the beauty of Japanese culture (especially the historical figures museum and the video shown there). Guiding them made me newly aware of just how wonderful Japanese culture is, which was a joy, and it was a truly valuable and wonderful experience for me.

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

    Tour Report by Roko

    Hello there!

    I’m Hiroko Aikawa, your local host in Hiroshima. I am here to provide full support to ensure you have a wonderful time and experience in Hiroshima and Japan.

    I am eager to introduce and share my passion for Japanese culture, Japanese gardens, pottery, kimono, dyeing, and weaving that is beautiful Japanese art for those (guests) who are interested in them.

    As a food enthusiast, I can also recommend the best culinary experiences in Hiroshima for those who love delicious food.

    As for my work background, I worked for Ford Motor Company from Japan/Asia Pacific for 30+ years to work with many people in the world and now it is the time for meeting many guests from the world.

    I look forward to welcoming you in Hiroshima and Miyajima!

    Request Booking

    May 7, 2025
    stevene928
    We did more than we thought we would in one day – 19,000 steps!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private…

    Apr 28, 2025
    StephanieMcGovern17
    Ask for Hiroko!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    This trip was amazing thanks to…

    Apr 8, 2025
    ancas
    Best experience!!!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Hiroko was the best guide ever!!! She introduced…

    Apr 4, 2025
    500ericav
    Hiroshima and Miyajima stole our hearts
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    My husband and…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tokyo Tower & Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo in One Day: Tokyo Tower & Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel
    • 10:30 Tokyo Tower
    • 12:00 Tsukiji Market
    • 13:30 Takeshita Street, Harajuku
    • 15:00 Sensoji Temple
    • 16:00 Dismissal

    What Is a Private Taxi Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private taxi-based day tour of Tokyo for a group visiting from North America. As it was the final day of their trip, the guests wanted to move around by taxi and enjoy some shopping. The group enjoyed conveyor-belt sushi at Tsukiji, did some shopping on Takeshita Street, and purchased T-shirts for the whole group in Asakusa. I believe they made the most of their last day. Since we spent a lot of time in the car, the guests asked a wide range of questions about topics such as average income in Japan, the gender gap, and education issues, which made the guiding truly rewarding. At Tokyo Tower, we were approached for a news interview by a broadcaster. Unfortunately it was not aired, but I think it became one of their memories from the trip.

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

    Tour Report by YUMI

    I’m YUMI. Japan is full of history, nature and culture. I would like to talk about them from many aspects. When you have some questions, don’t hesitate to ask me. There’re many off the beaten paths in Japan. If you want to walk in a hidden local area, I’ll tailor the special course as you wish.
    Experiencing new foods is also one of many intriguing things during your trip. I would recommend anything from street foods such as Ramen, Yakitori to authentic Sushi or elegant courses. My policy is to cherish your feelings and time. Let’s enjoy talking and walking with me!

    Request Booking

    Jun 6, 2026
    Michelle0309
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Off the tourist track in Tokyo
    We had such a lovely time…

    May 25, 2026
    lynnv748
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hakone was a highlight of our vacation
    We loved our day…

    May 20, 2026
    Suzana F
    Tripadvisor review: Tsukiji Food and Toyosu Market with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learned and enjoyed every minut
    Yumi was a fanty…

    May 14, 2026
    Robert_L
    Excellent tour with our outstanding guide, Yumi
    Viator review: Tokyo 6 hr Private Guided Tour & Tea Ceremony Experience
    Yumi is…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1030 Meet at Hotel Emion Kyoto
    • 1100 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 1250 Nishiki Market
    • 1345 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 1500 Yasaka Pagoda, Kodai-ji Temple, Ishibei-koji Alley, etc.
    • 1600 Yasaka Shrine
    • 1630 Gion
    • 1650 Disband at Kyoto Station

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The tour was for guests visiting from Oceania. At one point some of the guests became panicked because an item had been lost, but I followed up by phone and it was found, which helped calm the situation. One of the guests works as a guide back home, and asked one question after another about history and Japanese society, but I believe I was able to respond to everything without any problems. At the crowded Kiyomizu-dera Temple, there was a moment when we nearly got separated, but we managed to reunite and everything turned out fine. At the end of the tour, the guests wanted to buy a SIM card and expressed a wish to stop by an electronics store, so we finished at Kyoto Station.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainUmekoji-Kyotonishi～Inari190JPY
    Section 2TrainInari～Kyoto150JPY
    Section 3SubwayKyoto～Shijo220JPY
    Section 4BusShijo-Takakura～Kiyomizu-michi230JPY
    Section 5BusShijo-Kawaramachi～Kyoto230JPY
    Total1,020JPY

    Select a guide: enter the WordPress Guide post ID or Guide ID in the block settings.

    Request Booking

    Oct 10, 2025
    alijohn48
    Just what we were looking for
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Tomy was…

    Aug 8, 2025
    Katherine_G
    Fantastic day touring Kyoto with private tour guide & driver!
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max…

    Jul 22, 2025
    98patrickn
    early morning tour of Kyoto with guide Tomy
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We did an early…

    Jul 20, 2025
    Mark_S
    Great day in Kyoto
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    We had a great…

  • Hiroshima: Shukkeien Garden & Hiroshima Castle

    Hiroshima: Shukkeien Garden & Hiroshima Castle

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:45 Meet @ Hotel
    • 9:00 Peace Park (Memorial Museum, Atomic Bomb Dome, etc.)
    • 11:00 Shukkeien Garden
    • 12:00 Hiroshima Castle
    • 12:45 End @ Hotel

    What Is a Private Hiroshima Tour Like for a Family from Overseas? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from North America. One of the guests could speak and read Japanese, so we occasionally conversed in Japanese, which was said to be the first time in a very long while and was remarkably fluent. Some of the guests especially loved Shukkeien Garden and kindly thanked me for bringing them there. Others were fans of a television drama set in the samurai era and were interested in castles, so we toured the grounds of Hiroshima Castle together. The rest of the guests, having already visited Osaka Castle the day before, chose not to see Hiroshima Castle and returned to the Hotel earlier to prepare for their trip to Tokyo, so we ended the tour in front of Hiroshima Castle. When guiding guests from North America and Asia, I try to maintain objectivity so as not to focus only on the damage caused by the atomic bomb, keeping in mind the broader history. Everyone in the group was very kind, and I truly enjoyed guiding them.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusIn front of the Peace Memorial Museum～In front of the Prefectural Art Museum220JPY
    Total220JPY

    Tour Report by Tomoyo

    As a Hiroshima government-certified English-speaking guide, I’ve led over 160 heartfelt tours for guests from around the world. I craft each experience with care, blending history, humor, and emotional resonance to help you connect deeply with this beautiful city and its stories. I love sharing insights about Hiroshima and Japan, but I also enjoy chatting with my guests as if we were friends, learning about each other along the way and creating meaningful moments together. Every tour becomes a unique exchange, shaped by the people I meet. I look forward to welcoming you and guiding you in Hiroshima.

    Request Booking

    Sep 24, 2025
    Paige_M
    Lovely and Educational Tour of Hiroshima
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide for this…

    May 8, 2025
    Smatty68
    Tomoyo was a star guide
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We really enjoyed our…

    Apr 29, 2025
    Josh_H
    Amazing experience and very grateful for my tour guide Tomoyo
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed…

    Apr 29, 2025
    Chloe_O
    The best day in Japan with Tomoyo!
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Tomoyo was…