Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa & Meiji Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meeting at hotel Hotel
    • 10:10 Asakusa
    • 11:10 Akihabara
    • 12:20 Meiji Shrine
    • 13:10 Lunch GON PACH
    • 13:30 End of work at GON PACH

    What's a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They had already traveled for two weeks through Hiroshima, Osaka, and Kyoto, so they were quite accustomed to Japan. The day after the typhoon passed brought strong sunlight and intense heat, which made things challenging. One of the guests was sensitive to direct sunlight, so I naturally chose routes that stayed in the shade wherever possible, and they were grateful for the consideration. At Meiji Shrine, they were captivated by the main hall and the sacred trees, and appeared deeply moved. They loved the hand-rolled sushi at a restaurant, saying that although they often go out for sushi back home, this place was wonderful including the atmosphere, and they kept placing more orders. The tour ended in a very enjoyable mood.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShibuya~Asakusa252JPY
    Section 2TrainEX Press Asakusa~Akihabara210JPY
    Section 3TrainAkihabara~Harajuku178JPY
    Total640JPY

    My name is Kris,
    Before becoming a tour guide, I worked for a major steelmaking company as an engineer for many years. During my career, I lived and worked in both Germany and the United States for a total of five years. These experiences helped me understand different cultures and ways of thinking, which now helps me connect easily with guests from around the world.

    After retirement, I chose a second career as a tour guide because I truly enjoy meeting people from different countries and sharing Japanese culture, history, and daily life. I have been working as a guide for more than nine years and continue to enjoy every tour.

    I currently live in Tokyo, but I was born and raised in Kobe, near Osaka, and my family roots are in Kyoto. As a result, I have extensive knowledge not only of Tokyo but also of Kyoto, Osaka, and many other parts of Japan. I enjoy introducing both famous landmarks and hidden local gems that many visitors might otherwise miss.

    I am energetic, friendly, and very sociable. I always try to create tours that are relaxed, flexible, and tailored to my guests’ interests.

    Travel is one of my greatest passions, especially visiting hot spring resorts. I have visited more than 80 onsen destinations throughout Japan, giving me a deep appreciation of Japanese culture and regional traditions.

    Whether you are visiting Japan for the first time or returning for another adventure, I would be delighted to help you discover the real Japan from a local perspective.

    I look forward to meeting you and helping you create wonderful memories in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and beyond.

    See you in Japan!

    Kris

    May 10, 2026
    Matt_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful Introduction to Tokyo
    We were so lucky to have Kris-San…

    Apr 29, 2026
    Rebecca_M
    Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour
    We had such a wonderful…

    Apr 21, 2026
    jacquir581
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We love Kris
    Kris was awesome! He was very flexible when our…

    Apr 2, 2026
    Frank_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A great day in Tokyo
    Great tour with an excellent guide, Kris.…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Nijo Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet @ The Thousand Kyoto
    • 10:20-11:10 @ Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 11:55-12:45 @ Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 13:15-14:05 @ Gion
    • 14:05-14:40 Lunch @ Ramen Kamukura Gion Branch
    • 15:20-16:20 @ Nijo Castle
    • 16:30 Dismissal @ Bus Stop in Front of Nijo Castle

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kiyomizu-dera and Nijo Castle The guests were visitors from Europe. They were both very interested in Japanese history and culture, and at times I was asked many enthusiastic questions. One of the guests had recently injured a foot, so the tour was conducted with care for that. I tried to use escalators and elevators as much as possible, and since I was concerned about the slope up to Kiyomizu-dera, I recommended using a taxi, though in the end they chose to walk. The guests wanted a light lunch, so we stopped at a ramen restaurant in the Gion area. After strolling through Nijo Castle, I guided them to the bus stop in front of Nijo Castle for the bus heading to Kyoto Station, and we parted ways there.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto Station~Inari Station150JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari Station~Tofukuji Station170JPY
    Section 3BusTofukuji~Kiyomizu-michi230JPY
    Section 4BusShijo Keihan~Nijojo-mae230JPY
    Total780JPY

    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!

    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…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 11:00 Meet up @ Kyoto Station Shinkansen platform
    • 2. 12:00 @ Arashiyama (Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge)
    • 3. 14:00 @ Lunch @ Gontaro
    • 4. 15:00 @ Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 5. 16:30 Disband @ Shijo Street

    Title: What Is a 4-Hour Private Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama and Kinkaku-ji Because they could not reserve their preferred bullet train, the guests requested a meeting time of 12:00, so I was standing by at Kyoto Station before 11:00. They suddenly emailed me saying they would arrive at Kyoto Station at 10:59, so I hurried to the meeting point. Since meeting on the bullet train platform is difficult, I had asked for their car number and told them I would wait with a name board where that car would stop, yet we were unable to meet. They had not checked the email carefully and had gone all the way down to the central ticket gate of the bullet train, then rushed back up to the platform to look for me. I truly wished they would not act on their own without confirming the plan. Since [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) arranged this private tour, I had prepared thoroughly for the meeting. The guests were talkative and enjoyable people, so I felt there was no ill intent and that they simply had a go-my-way style. As the tour was only four hours, they understood that we could visit only two places, so we focused on Arashiyama and Kinkaku-ji. It was drizzling in Arashiyama, but the guests were moved by my explanation of the Zen garden at Tenryu-ji, and by the time we reached Kinkaku-ji the sun had come out, and they were delighted, saying how beautiful it was. Since they said they did not need any more sightseeing and wanted to enjoy shopping, I guided them along Shinkyogoku Street and Teramachi Street, explained how to get back to Kyoto Station, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherKyoto~Kyoto140JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto~Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 3TrainRanden Arashiyama~Kitano-Hakubaicho250JPY
    Section 4BusKitano-Hakubaicho~Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 5BusKinkakuji-michi~Kawaramachi-Shijo230JPY
    Section 6OtherKyoto~Kyoto140JPY
    Total1,230JPY

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

    Sep 29, 2026
    duncans746
    Yuka was great
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Yuka was a fantastic guide, knowledgeable,…

    Sep 23, 2026
    navinderp2024
    Great day in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 9, 2026
    piperl686
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Honeymoon Tour in Kyoto
    We were so impressed by…

    Aug 5, 2026
    Anita_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great day of sightseeing in Kyoto
    Yuka was a…

  • Miyagi in Half a Day: Matcha experience at Kanrantei

    Miyagi in Half a Day: Matcha experience at Kanrantei

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ Metropolitan Sendai East
    • 9:25 ~ 9:52 Senseki-Tohoku Line Special Rapid ~ Transfer to Senseki Line, arrive at Matsushimakaigan Station
    • 10:00 Matcha experience at Kanrantei
    • 11:00~11:50 Matsushima sightseeing boat
    • 11:50~12:10 Stroll around Zuiganji Temple grounds, peek at the garden from the Entsuin entrance
    • 12:10~12:55 Lunch @ Fisherman's seafood bowl
    • 13:25 Board the Senseki Line from Matsushimakaigan Station, disband on the train

    Title: What's a Private 4-Hour Matsushima Tour Like from Sendai? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests today were visitors with roots in Japan, currently living in North America. Since they regularly eat Japanese food, they specifically requested sushi and the fresh seafood that Matsushima is known for. As they wanted to take the sightseeing boat, I planned a route that prioritized the boat cruise within the 4-hour window, then explored the surrounding area before returning to Sendai. It was cloudy today, but neither hot nor cold, and the guests repeatedly said, "This is really perfect weather for a tour." At the Matsushima sightseeing boat rest house counter, I showed my guide license, but a man stationed at the counter said to the woman working there, "Hmm, what should we do. Shall we give a discount?" When I said, "I've often been given free passage before," he replied, "Are you going through a company? It's difficult for individuals," which made me think the response varies depending on the person. I had told the guests in advance to please pay for the guide's boat fare as well, so there was no problem, but when I looked closely, the guests' fares had each been discounted by ten percent too. Today the waves were calm and we were able to get seats toward the front, so the boat's English announcements could be heard without delay, matching the scenery, which was nice. Usually I'm busy supplementing what's missing in English. After getting off the boat, for lunch the guests said a seafood rice bowl would be fine rather than sushi, so we decided to try the place I had mentioned on the way as "a shop that always has a line here." The "Fisherman's Seafood Bowl" is a good-value shop run by a boat owner. It's always got a line and I'd never been able to get in before, but this time we got in after just a short wait. The guests fully enjoyed Matsushima's summer flavors of conger eel and seafood bowls, and said, "Thank you for bringing us to a local shop." As for how they came to book this tour, the guests had been in Sendai but were stranded everywhere due to a typhoon, so they suddenly chose this tour saying they wanted to go somewhere. On the way back it was already past one o'clock and we couldn't catch the train, but I helped them choose souvenirs in the station, and they picked out seaweed from Shichigahama, my hometown. Since it was fine to get to Sendai Station, they said it was okay to part ways on the train if they got off partway, so we parted ways in the train car. They said they would be returning to North America the next day. I'm glad they seem to have enjoyed themselves.

    Hello! I’m Riko, your local guide. During the week, I work at a local university, but on weekends, I love to guide visitors like you. This year(2024) marks my 6th year as a guide, and I’m thrilled to continue sharing the beauty of Japan with you.
    I’m a certified Sake Navigator, so I have a wealth of knowledge about Japanese sake. Additionally, I’m well-versed in the gourmet scene of Sendai, Shiogama, and Matsushima, allowing me to tailor your tour to your culinary preferences!
    I look forward to creating a memorable tour experience for you, full of fun and lasting memories of Japan. Thanks for choosing me as your guide!

    May 10, 2026
    Nate_K
    Viator review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fun Day in the bay!
    Be ready to walk briskly…

    Apr 30, 2026
    Tanakainmaui
    Tripadvisor review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Riko-san is the best guide!
    I originally booked with TripAdvisor,…

    Mar 31, 2026
    NHDBuilder
    Tripadvisor review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    GO WITH “RIKO” FROM JAPAN GUIDE AGENCY
    This is our…

    Oct 3, 2025
    P
    Peggy_M
    This was a great tour with Riko
    Viator review: Sendai / Matsushima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Riko was…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Dotonbori

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Dotonbori

    Tour Itinerary

    • 15:00 Hotel Hankyu Respire Osaka
    • 15:20 Osaka Castle
    • 16:15 Shitennoji Temple
    • 17:45 Shinsekai
    • 18:40 Kuromon Market
    • 19:00 Dotonbori
    • 19:15 Dotonbori Dismissal

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Osaka Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report Today I guided guests visiting from Asia. The group joined the tour together. One of the guests had been to Japan before. During our communication, the guests expressed a wish to visit as many spots as possible, and since they also had an interest in history, I added Shitennoji Temple with their agreement to view it from the outside. As the evening cooled down, we strolled leisurely while I focused my explanations on history. Since the guests would be staying in Osaka for two more days, I sent them information about local food and souvenirs after the tour. They told me they had a wonderful time on the Osaka tour, which made me very happy.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Umeda~Tenmabashi190JPY
    Section 2SubwayTenmabashi~Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka240JPY
    Section 3SubwayTennoji~Dobutsuen-mae190JPY
    Section 4SubwayEbisucho~Nipponbashi190JPY
    Total810JPY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in One Day: Harajuku Meiji Jingu Shrine & Leave Harajuku

    Tokyo in One Day: Harajuku Meiji Jingu Shrine & Leave Harajuku

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Hotel
    • 11:00 Asakusa Tourist Center, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa shrine
    • 12:30 Tsukiji Outer Market, Tsukiji Honganji
    • Lunch at Tsukiji Uogashi Food court
    • 14:00 Ginza Kabukiza, Ginza Six
    • 14:30 Shibuya Shibuya Crossing, Hachiko
    • Starbucks
    • 15:30 Harajuku Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • Takeshita-dori
    • 16:50 Leave Harajuku
    • 17:00 Tour ends at Shinjuku station

    Title: What Does a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, Ginza, Shibuya, and Harajuku The guests were a group visiting Japan from Europe, in town to attend a conference held in Tokyo in September. In Asakusa, after stopping by the tourist information center, we took a full look around Senso-ji Temple and also visited Asakusa Shrine. In Tsukiji, we walked through the outer market and went inside the fish market building, where we had lunch at the food court, enjoying dishes such as tekka-don and a tempura set meal. We then took the subway to Ginza and visited the rooftop garden of Ginza SIX. In Shibuya, we took a break at a Starbucks overlooking the scramble crossing. As a result, by the time we reached Takeshita Street after Meiji Shrine, we had arrived at the scheduled end of the tour. We officially concluded the tour once the guests boarded the Yamanote Line, but afterward I got off at Shinjuku Station and voluntarily showed them the locations of Kabukicho and Golden Gai.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNippori~Asakusa324JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa~Higashi-Ginza220JPY
    Section 3TrainTsukiji~Ginza178JPY
    Section 4TrainGinza~Shibuya209JPY
    Section 5TrainShibuya~Harajuku146JPY
    Section 6TrainHarajuku~Shinjuku146JPY
    Total1,223JPY

    Hello there,
    I’m Harry. This nickname comes from Harry Bosch, a character in American detective novels. I like watching films, listening to music and reading books, especially detective stories. I love meeting people from different countries and would like to help them understand Japanese culture and history. I believe that tourism can connect people all over the world and change the world into something truly peaceful. I was born in Osaka and have lived in Tokyo for more than 35 years. I am very happy to welcome tourists from all over the world. I will do my best to make your days fantastic. I look forward to seeing you soon.

    Oct 8, 2025
    Denise_M
    Great tour of Kyoto
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide Harry was very knowledgeable. We learned…

    Jun 30, 2025
    Iguana74
    Customized Tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our four-hour private tour of Kyoto was excellent.…

    May 12, 2025
    Tonya_G
    Would do it again.
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Our guide, Harry, did an excellent…

    Mar 22, 2025
    Lauren_P
    We had a great time on…
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great time…

  • Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM8:30 Meet at Hotel
    • AM9:15 Osaka Castle Park
    • AM11:15 Shinsekai
    • PM12:30 Disband at Hotel

    What Is a Private Osaka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle and Shinsekai The guests were a cheerful group visiting from North America. The day before, they had reportedly explored Kyoto during the day and dined in Dotonbori in the evening. They had researched the sightseeing spots very thoroughly in advance. The itinerary was a fairly standard course covering Osaka Castle and Shinsekai, but in Shinsekai the guests enjoyed playing games at an arcade, trying their hand at a shooting gallery, and having fun at a gachapon shop, showing a very easygoing and friendly attitude. They seemed to enjoy Japanese sake and were fond of Suntory's Yamazaki. There is a Suntory factory in Yamazaki, about 30 minutes from Osaka, where you can take a tour and even do a whisky tasting, so if I had known earlier I could have taken them there. The tour ended on a high note with lively conversation about alcohol. They said they would try the shochu I recommended this evening.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinsaibashi~Tanimachi 4-chome190JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Ebisucho240JPY
    Section 3SubwayDobutsuen-mae~Shinsaibashi240JPY
    Total670JPY

    I am Naoki Nakatani. I live in Osaka.
    I started tour guide from 2023 after 40 years
    work experience in Japanese manufacturing company. I am currently teaching Japanese as volunteer staff to foreign residents who live in my community. I have 11 and half years work experience in overseas office and I had interacted with people of foreign countries for a long time enjoying business and friendship with them. My guide experience is still short but I will provide my best service to the guests. I am in a position to prepare the itinerary if guests request and to send any information for the guest to make plan before visit to Japan.

    Jul 11, 2026
    Trevor_F
    Viator review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    4 hour Private Tour
    Naomi was our guide and did a…

    Jun 6, 2026
    May_O
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful time in Kyoto
    We had a terrific time with Naoki. He…

    May 1, 2026
    Sanfrancisco820
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Choose Naoki – you will have a great day!!
    Naoki is an…

    Mar 28, 2026
    Tanya_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great guide
    Naoki was very kind and knowledgeable He knew the best…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Dotonbori

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Dotonbori

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ Hotel Blomen NorthHanazono
    • 9:30-11:00 @ Osaka Castle
    • 11:30-12:20 @ Shitennoji Temple
    • 12:45-13:00 @ Dotonbori
    • 13:15 Disband @ around Hozenji Temple

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Asia. They enjoy traveling abroad together once or twice a year, and this trip was a return visit to Japan. On a previous trip they had toured Hokkaido and the Kanto region, so this time they focused on Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka, staying for about ten days. One of the guests was already familiar with Japan through professional dealings with Japanese companies, and commented that young people in Japan now speak more English than before. Since the guests speak a mix of languages among themselves, they noted that, in terms of language, Japan might still have room to catch up.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHanazonocho~Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 3TrainShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka~Namba190JPY
    Total620JPY

    I’m Sahiko Ogura, Sachiko literally means ‘happy child’, please call me Sachiko or Sachi for short. I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been guide for 6 years mainly in Osaka, Kyoto and Nara after having worked far trading company. I love traveling and visited about 30 countries, where I had a great time and experienced something new and exciting. I also like sports, tea ceremony and gardening, I’m growing veritable and flower in my garden. Please let me know your interest and anything what you would like to do during your tour. I’m happy to make an itinerary customized for you.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you and exploring in my home town!

    Sep 26, 2026
    Y
    yolanda552
    Sachiko the best tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Sachiko was our tour guide…

    Sep 9, 2026
    peteraI5718XP
    My First Visit to Osaka
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    I enjoyed seeing Osaka through Sachiko’s…

    Sep 4, 2026
    S
    satchithh
    Hasabnis family
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sachiko or Choko Ogura is a…

    Aug 3, 2026
    G6602NEeduardoa
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Osaka Tour with Sachiko
    We had a great Osaka…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Tobu Nikko & Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial

    Tochigi in One Day: Tobu Nikko & Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:45- Tobu Nikko Station
    • 10:20- Shinkyo Bridge
    • 10:40- Rinnoji Temple Sanbutsudo
    • 11:15- Nikko Toshogu Shrine
    • 12:55- Lunch @ Sanraku
    • 13:40- Fujiya Tourist Center
    • 13:17- Kanmangafuchi Abyss
    • 14:30- Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park
    • 15:40- Tobu Nikko Station

    What Is a Private Walking Tour with a Licensed Guide Like? A Guide's Report The guests came from North America. They listened attentively and took part actively in the prayers at the shrines and temples. After a prolonged typhoon, I was concerned about the weather, but although the humidity was severe, we were able to tour without any rain. We used the bus for the round trip to and from the station, but since the service is infrequent, I built in extra time, which meant we ran out of time to see the garden of the imperial villa. In hindsight, a lesson learned was that we could have taken a later bus and still made the return train in time.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTobu Nikko~Tamozawa Imperial Villa600JPY
    Total600JPY

    Hello! I’m Yoko.
    I live in Tochigi Prefecture about 40 years and currently based in Utsunomiya, city near Nikko.
    I’m a mother of two kids, and a beagle dog.
    Also I’ve lived in Tennessee for 3 years until 2020.
    I was always happy whenever introducing Japanese culture to local people while living in US.
    Now I’m so excited to introduce you various attractions here in Japan.
    I love traveling, nature, food, Kimono, tea ceremony, manga etc.
    I’m looking forward to showing my guests beautiful places and interesting things related to my neighbor area.
    Let’s explore and have fun with me!

    May 26, 2026
    Samuel_G
    Viator review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Informative, fun and well organized
    We had the best day with our…

    May 17, 2026
    E1320OQrobertg
    A fabulous day in Nikko!
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent day with Yoko as our guide.…

    Mar 9, 2026
    claudiomC4921YK
    The bed guide for a really amazing place
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoko was an amazing…

    Dec 21, 2025
    Earhart_Adventures
    Insight in to Japanese feudal culture
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Full Day trip from Tokyo- our…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Hotel
    • 2. 10:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 3. 12:00 Koishikawa Korakuen
    • 4. 12:45 Nezu Shrine
    • 5. 13:15 Yanaka
    • 6. 14:00 Dismissal Near Ginza Station

    What Can You See on a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo's Traditional Spots? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who had arrived in Japan the day before, planning about a two-week stay in Japan and intending to continue on to Hakone, Mount Fuji, and Kyoto after Tokyo. At their request, I guided them without a lunch break through Meiji Shrine, Koishikawa Korakuen Garden, Nezu Shrine, and Yanaka. Although it was already September, it was still very hot, so I advised them to be careful of heatstroke, but they said they were used to the heat where they lived. They actually walked at a fast pace, so we were able to follow the plan as scheduled. We visited places with a traditional atmosphere, and at various spots they said "Amazing" while listening eagerly to my explanations, looking around with great interest, and taking many photos. After walking from Ginza Station on the subway to near their hotel, they said they could make their way back on their own, so we parted ways there.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Ginza~Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Section 2TrainYoyogi~Iidabashi167JPY
    Section 3SubwayKorakuen~Todaimae178JPY
    Section 4TrainNippori~Kanda167JPY
    Section 5SubwayKanda~Ginza178JPY
    Total899JPY

    Hello, I’m Haruhiko Yokota, a certified tour guide based in Tokyo and a top-ranked guide registered with JGA Inc. Please feel free to call me Haru.
    I’ve been living in Tokyo for about 30 years and conducted close to 200 tours between 2023 and 2025. I’m very familiar with most major sightseeing spots in and around Tokyo, ranging from traditional temples and shrines to modern attractions. I also enjoy traveling throughout Japan, which has given me extensive knowledge of popular destinations across the country.
    I’m happy to customize your tour to match your interests and preferences. If you have any requests or questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. I’ll do my best to make your tour both enjoyable and memorable!

    Sep 29, 2026
    S77OGjoyh
    Excellent Guided walking tour of temple, shrine and outdoor food market Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day…

    Sep 16, 2026
    Kerry_M
    10/10 tour with Haruhiko Yokota
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We toured Tokyo with Haruhiko Yokota…

    Jul 13, 2026
    529gregj
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Haru is an excellent guide in Tokyo
    Haru (Haruhiko…

    Jul 12, 2026
    Felice R
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Touring gardens in Tokyo with the perfect guide , Haru…