Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up @insomnia Kyoto Oike
    • 2. 10:30 @Kiyomizu-dera, Yasaka Pagoda, Higashiyama area
    • 3. 11:40 @Yasaka Shrine
    • 4. 12:30 Lunch @Katsukura Ginkakuji
    • 5. 13:30 @Hirano Shrine
    • 6. 14:00 @Kinkaku-ji
    • 7. 14:30 @Koryu-ji
    • 8. 15:00 @Arashiyama
    • 9. 16:00 Disband @insomnia Kyoto Oike

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan. Since the restaurant we had originally suggested was closed for the day, we decided to go to another restaurant instead. While I was guiding, the driver made a reservation for us in advance, so we were able to have lunch very smoothly. The guests were very pleased, saying that it was a clean restaurant with good service and delicious food. They were very satisfied with the teamwork between the two of us. When we parted, they kindly gave each of us a tip as a token of appreciation. They also said they would recommend this tour to acquaintances who are preparing to visit Japan.

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

    Tour Report by YUKA

    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!

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

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

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • (08:00) Meet at Hotel lobby
    • 1. Itsukushima Shrine, Otorii Gate, Daishhoin Temple, Five-storied Pagoda, Senjyokaku, Omotesando Street
    • 2. Hondohri Strolling
    • 3. Ground Zeo,
    • 4. A-bomb Dome
    • 5. Peace Memorial Park
    • Peace Bell, Atomic Bomb Memorial Mound, Children’s Peace Memorial Statue, Flame of Peace, Cenotaph for the A-bomb Victims
    • 6. Peace Memorial Museum
    • (15:00) End of Tour:

    Title: What Is a Private Miyajima and Hiroshima Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest had arrived in Hiroshima the previous day. On this day, the guest visited Shukkeien Garden and Hiroshima Castle. Although it was my first time guiding a guest from Europe, they spoke beautiful English, having lived in North America for two years. It was hard to believe that there had been heavy rain the night before, as the morning turned into clear and sunny weather, and we rejoiced together over the good fortune. When I asked why they had requested a guide, the guest said, "Because you can't understand the culture without hearing the explanations." At one point they said, "I don't get hungry, so let's have lunch whenever you get hungry," which left me unsure how to respond. It reminded me once again how many different kinds of people there are. I was impressed by how considerate the guest was toward me in various situations. At a souvenir shop on Miyajima, we happened to meet a koi breeder who had once been ranked number one in Japan, and it was lucky to be able to hear his stories.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusIn front of Hilton Hiroshima～Hiroshima Station220JPY
    Section 2TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi Station420JPY
    Section 3TrainMiyajimaguchi Station～Hiroshima Station420JPY
    Section 4BusHiroshima Station Shinkansen Exit Station～In front of Kamiyacho220JPY
    Total1,280JPY

    Tour Report by Emmy

    Hi, nice to meet you! I am Emmy. I am so honored and happy to be your guide.
    I had been teaching at a local university in Hiroshima. After I got retired in March 2023, I started guiding. I was born and raised in Hiroshima. I love communicating with people all over the world more than anything, so I have been involved in home visit, homestay, volunteer guide for people from foreign countries.
    I always hope that our guests will take away lots of positive energy from Hiroshima, a city that was resilient and revived like a phoenix, in spite of its sad history.
    While realizing customers’ wishes, I will introduce you the beauty of Hiroshima, Miyajima and so on, which are tranquil and peaceful places with a unique charm that cannot be found in big cities.
    I am happy to answer any questions about things Japanese.
    I look forward to meeting you in person soon!!

    Request Booking

    Jul 3, 2026
    715rachnak
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Such a great experience in Hiroshima and Miyajima!
    We…

    Jul 2, 2026
    Janine_P
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Worth the money!
    From the moment we booked our…

    May 7, 2026
    Diane_F
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour and guide
    Our tour guide Emmy was…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Curious613511
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    We did a 4 hour walking tour through Hiroshima where…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Imperial Palace East & Tsukiji Outer

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Imperial Palace East & Tsukiji Outer

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:35 Meet up @Hotel
    • 10:05 Akihabara (Radio Kaikan, Animate)
    • 12:00 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 12:50 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 13:00 Lunch @Sushisei
    • 13:45 Tsukiji ~ Ginza 4-chome Intersection
    • 14:00 Dismiss @Ginza Line Ginza Station

    **Title:** What's a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Like? Akihabara, the Imperial Palace, and Tsukiji — A Licensed Guide's Report **Body:** The guests were visitors from North America. Unfortunately, one member of the group could not join the tour today due to work, but they kindly came to greet us at the Hotel. The day before, they had joined a one-day Tokyo bus tour, so before departing I checked which places they had been able to visit during the previous day's heavy rain, and then finalized today's destinations. Since Akihabara and lunch at Tsukiji had already been decided in advance, I added the Imperial Palace to the itinerary, as they had only been able to see it from the bus window the day before. We had originally planned to depart at 9:00, but because the shops in Akihabara did not open until after 10:00, we delayed our departure from the Hotel to 9:30. At the Akihabara Radio Kaikan, the guests were overwhelmed by the sheer number of products, and at the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace they seemed surprised by the contrast with the surrounding Marunouchi and Otemachi areas. In mid-June, by around 1:00 in the afternoon, you can get into the sushi restaurants at the Tsukiji Outer Market with almost no wait. (I accidentally took the photos in portrait orientation.)

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTameike-Sanno～Kanda178JPY
    Section 2TrainAkihabara～Tokyo145JPY
    Total323JPY

    Tour Report by Hideki

    Hello! My name is Hideki Maruyama. I was born in Osaka and raised in the Greater Tokyo area. I obtained my National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate in February 2016.
    I spent 23 years working at a leading Japanese automotive company, including 7 years posted overseas. I then worked for a German premium automotive manufacturer for 13 years, followed by 6 years as an advisor to a British energy company. Through these roles at global corporations, I developed and refined key skills such as:
    1. Cross-cultural communication
    2. A deep understanding of business elites and affluent customers
    3. The ability to deliver impactful and impressive presentations in English
    In addition to my regular duties, I often served as an interpreter for top executives during meetings with foreign government officials. I also had opportunities to introduce aspects of Japan—such as our national character and consumer preferences—to leadership teams in both the German and British companies.
    As a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding guests from a wide range of countries especially after the pandemic, including the US, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Norway, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

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    Jun 14, 2026
    tiffany_w
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Phenomenal experiance
    Hideki san was an amazing guide. He was incredibly knowledgable…

    Jun 13, 2026
    Joshua_A
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The Best Guide I Had in Japan
    Hideki was, without question, my…

    May 2, 2026
    Bruce G
    Our guide (Hideki san) was a master. It was a rainy day and he suggested a new plan in anticipation…

    Apr 30, 2026
    johnbD9596UO
    Lovely Private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I had a great…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel → Fushimi Inari Taisha → Kiyomizu-dera → Gion → Nishiki Market

    What Does a Private Kyoto Day Tour Cover? Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, Gion and Nishiki Market — A Licensed Guide's Report We were able to meet ten minutes before the scheduled time (8:30), so we could head to Fushimi Inari Taisha relatively early. After taking photos among the Senbon Torii and lifting the "Omokaru Ishi" stone, we walked up to Kumataka-sha shrine and then returned. On the way to Fushimi Inari Station, the guests bought some goods they liked at a souvenir shop. At Kiyomizu-dera, they poured water over the wet Kannon Bodhisattva statue, and I explained the wish that their hardships and worries would be washed away with the water. I also took photos of that moment. Since I learned that the guests liked Studio Ghibli animation, I asked whether they would like to stop by a Ghibli shop, and they said they would, so although it was not in the original plan, we made a quick visit to an anime shop, took photos with the anime characters inside, and then went to Gion. In Gion, I explained the tea houses and geisha houses, as well as how maiko are kept busy with various lessons, and then we headed to our final destination, Nishiki Market. At Nishiki Market, the guests bought takoyaki, soft serve ice cream, taiyaki, and more, taking everything except the ice cream as takeout. By this point it was past 12:45, so I explained that the tour was ending and asked what they would like to do. They said they wanted to return to their hotel, so I guided them to the nearest bus stop, told them which bus number to take, and we parted ways. I believe they enjoyed themselves.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShichijo Station (Keihan)～Ryukoku Daimae Fukakusa170JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari Station～Shichijo Station170JPY
    Section 3OtherShichijo Keihan-mae～Kiyomizu-michi0JPY
    Section 4BusGion～Shijo Takakura230JPY
    Total570JPY

    Tour Report by Hiro

    Nice to meet you.
    My name is Hiroki Muramoto, please call me Hiro.
    Hiro in Japanese means large or big. Although I’m neither large nor big, you can call me Hiro. How are you doing ?
    I lived in a city nearby Kobe city. Do you know Kobe ? Kobe is famous for Kobe beef and pearl. If you have not yet had Kobe beef, you should taste the authentic Kobe beef. It is very satisfying taste. But I have recently moved to a city in Kyoto prefecture, so I can be in Kyoto city in about one hour. By the way, I am a family of four. I have a son and a daughter. My son now works in Tokyo. I sometimes go to Tokyo to see him. Tokyo is a huge city, but too crowded, so it seems not to suit me. I seem to be better suited to a small city than a big one. Where do you live in ? How many families do you have ? If you like, please tell me about them. I worked in the quality assurance department of a pharmaceutical company and visited the factories of foreign affiliated companies, so I became interested in foreign cultures and obtained a qualification as an interpreter guide in 2015.

    I have been a guide for about eight years. During that time, I have guided in Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara, Kochi and so on, although I could do little guiding work between 2020 and 2022 due to COVID-19. However, since last year, my guiding work has been back! So, I am happy to be able to meet different people again. My hobby is travelling, but sadly, I am not in a position to travel abroad easily at the moment due to the very weak yen, and I hope to travel abroad again when the situation eases a bit more.
    How many countries have you been to so far ? Which countries have you liked so far? Another hobby is watching sports – baseball and football. Do you like the baseball ? Do you know Otani, Japanese baseball player ? He has joined Dodgers in Los Angeles this year. I look forward to another successful year for Otani.

    By the way, what interests you in Japan? Food, history, scenery ? As far as tourist attractions are concerned, famous places are too crowded. If you like, I also would like to show you some less crowded places. Are you interested in experiencing something ? If you want to experience something, I can suggest an experience plan for you. If so, please contact me as early as possible. As for food, what kind of food do you like? There are many kinds of delicious food. Of course, you can get good food in fine restaurants, but you can also get good food in downtown restaurants. If you like alcohol, why don’t you try Japanese sake? It can range from light and fragrant to rich in flavor, so you’re sure to find a Japanese sake you like.

    My motto is “Be content with life.” However, I find myself complaining all the time. If you like, please tell me your motto. I want to treat all guests who visit Japan with the spirit of “Treasure every encounter” and guide them so that they can enjoy themselves and have good memories of Japan.
    You only live once (YOLO). So, I also want to enjoy it with you.

    I look forward to meeting you.
    Best regard.

    Request Booking

    Nov 27, 2024
    Julianne_A
    Book it
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was a wonderful experience with our guide Hiro. He…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Walk to Tochomae Station & Explore Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Walk to Tochomae Station & Explore Sensoji Temple

    Tsukiji Local Food & Culture Half-Day Tour, Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at hotel (Knot Shinjuku)
    • 8:30-8:45 Walk to Tochomae Station
    • 8:45-9:15 Oedo Line (Tochomae to Tsukijishijo)
    • 9:15-10:00 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 10:00-10:15 Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple
    • 10:15-10:25 Walk to Higashi-ginza Station
    • 10:25-10:40 Asakusa Line (Higashi-ginza to Asakusa)
    • 10:40-10:50 Walk to Sensoji Temple
    • 10:50-11:30 Explore Sensoji Temple
    • 11:30-12:30 Explore Kappabashi Kitchenware Street
    • 12:30 Disband at Monja Shichigosan

    Title: What's a Private Walking Tour of Tsukiji, Ginza, and Asakusa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather was clear and perfect for a walk. The guests were visiting from Europe, and they had saved Sensoji Temple for the end of their Japan trip, so they seemed like experienced travelers. Unfortunately it was a Wednesday, and many shops at the Tsukiji Outer Market were closed, while those that were open seemed very much aimed at tourists, which left them a little disappointed. However, Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, which we stopped by before heading to Asakusa, was surprisingly well received. They came to their own conclusion, noting, "I see, because the architect who designed it had studied 1920s Indian architecture, the structure resembles a railway station designed by the British during the era of the Indian Empire." At Higashi-Ginza Station we stopped by the Kabukiza Theatre, and they were delighted to be able to get an English program. At Kappabashi they purchased some tableware, though it was a shame the shop did not offer tax-free shopping. Finally, I guided them to a monjayaki restaurant, where we parted ways. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. Winner of Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

    Click here for more details: Tsukiji Local Food & Culture Half-Day Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGotokuji～Sangubashi167JPY
    Section 2SubwayTochomae～Tsukijishijo272JPY
    Section 3SubwayHigashi-ginza～Asakusa220JPY
    Section 4TrainAsakusa～Shin-okachimachi168JPY
    Section 5SubwayShin-okachimachi～Shinjuku-nishiguchi220JPY
    Section 6TrainShinjuku～Gotokuji199JPY
    Total1,246JPY

    Tour Report by Ichiro

    Having taught at a national university with many international students, I have experience in intercultural communications. I hope you can enjoy my talk on Japanese culture and history. I am a novice as a guide, but having traveled around the world, I think I know what foreign travelers expect of a tour guide. One of the most impressive tour guides I have met is a lady in Chennai who told me everything about the Indian culture and history – from Hindu gods to how the British brought ice from North America to Madras and kept it all through the summer for their cold drinks. I hope to become an impressive guide like her.

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    Oct 20, 2025
    GlobeTrotting155867
    Hakone tour
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Ichiro was a fantastic guide who was very flexible…

    Mar 19, 2025
    Kpldcols
    Time well spent in Hakone
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide (Ichiro) was friendly, knowledgeable,…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 08:30 Meet @ Keigyoan Komatsu
    • 2. 09:00 -10:00 Arashiyama walk; Tenryuji Temple, Bamboo Grove, Togetsukyo Bridge
    • 3. 10:30-11:15 Visit Kamigamo Shrine
    • 4. 11:30-12:15 Visit Ginkakuji Temple
    • 5. 12:15-13:00 Walk the Philosopher's Path, visit Honen-in Temple
    • 6. 13:10-13:30 Visit Shinnyodo Temple
    • 7. 13:40-14:20 Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 8. 14:30 Dismissal @ Nishiki Market

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. For all but one of the group, it was their first time in Kyoto. This was the first day of a multi-day stay. During our earlier communication, I had suggested the Higashiyama area to avoid crowds, but since the group very much wanted to visit Arashiyama, we settled on the itinerary described above. Because we went to Arashiyama first thing in the morning, it was not too crowded, and the other spots were, as usual, quiet as well. The group seemed to really enjoy Ginkaku-ji and Honen-in, which I thought was wonderful. The driver handled the car very skillfully, and by combining walking with travel by car, we were able to efficiently visit six locations within the allotted time. I believe all of the guests were fully satisfied. It was a hot day, though.

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

    Tour Report by Shoji

    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.

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:00 Meet at Hotel Century Southern Tower
    • 2. 09:20 Meiji Shrine
    • 3. 11:00 Imperial Palace (Outer Garden, East Gardens)
    • 4. 13:00 Nezu Shrine
    • 5. 13:45 Lunch (T's Tantan)
    • 6. 14:30 Tokyo National Museum
    • 7. 16:30 Asakusa (Nakamise Street, Sensoji Temple)
    • 8. 17:10 Disband at Asakusabashi Station

    Title: What Is a Rainy-Day Private Tour of Ueno and Asakusa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The forecast called for rain throughout the day, so I had prepared some alternative options in case a change of plan was requested, but the guests wished to follow the original schedule, so I guided them according to the wishes they had shared in advance. The guests from Asia had a great deal of knowledge about Buddhism and asked me a variety of detailed questions, and they were also well informed about Japanese emperors and shoguns, which made guiding them very rewarding. For lunch, since a plant-based meal was requested, I took them to a restaurant in Ueno, and they were very pleased. The rain continued until the end, but I believe the guests were satisfied with the tour.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainYakuendai～Shinjuku738JPY
    Section 2TrainShinjuku～Harajuku146JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nijubashimae209JPY
    Section 4SubwayOtemachi～Nezu178JPY
    Section 5SubwaySendagi～Ueno324JPY
    Section 6SubwayUeno～Asakusa178JPY
    Section 7SubwayAsakusa～Asakusabashi178JPY
    Section 8TrainAsakusabashi～Yakuendai573JPY
    Total2,524JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tokyo Tower & Cat Cafe

    Tokyo in One Day: Tokyo Tower & Cat Cafe

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30　Meet at the hotel
    • 10:10　Tokyo Tower
    • 11:20　East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 12:15　Lunch in Ueno
    • 13:10　Tokyo National Museum
    • 15:10　Shibuya Crossing, Hachiko
    • 15:25　Cat Cafe
    • 16:00　Guide to the Pokemon Shop, Jump Shop, etc.
    • 16:10　End of guide

    What Can You Do on a Rainy Day Private Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report After hearing the forecast for heavy rain the day before, I suggested changes to the itinerary to the guests. I added the Tokyo National Museum, a cat cafe, a Pokemon shop, a Jump shop, and more. Since the guests wanted to visit Tokyo Tower and the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace even in the rain, we walked there. The rain leaked through the umbrellas and our socks got soaking wet. At Tokyo Tower one of the guests was very excited, and at the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace the guests listened attentively to my guiding even in the rain. Including the lunch menu, I believe they were ultimately very pleased.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayRoppongi～Kamiyacho180JPY
    Section 2SubwayKamiyacho～Otemachi180JPY
    Section 3SubwayOtemachi～Ueno180JPY
    Section 4TrainUeno～Shibuya210JPY
    Total750JPY

    Tour Report by Shuji

    My name is Shuji, meaning “Excellent Manager” in English. I was born in Hiroshima 1952. I have 2 children and 3 grandchildren.
    After graduating Kyoto Univ. I joined Mitsubishi-UFJ Bank, Osaka Branch where I met my wife who was a master of Englsih, so I started studying English.
    The bank allowed me to go to Columbia Graduate business school in New York and got MBA Degree there. I worked in London and Manchester Branch.
    During staying in U.K., I was introduced by BBC and Financial Times News Paper about my achievement there. I was selected as a personal assistant and interpreter for the President of the Bank.
    I made many business trips with him to overseas countries. I experienced as an interpreter for meeting late Henry Kissinger and the President of Citi. Corp.
    I changed the job to ORIX corporation, there I was promoted to a Board Member. When the company had acquired Dutch company, I was a member as an accountant to check the Dutch company’s statements of accounts.
    My hobbies are cooking, singing a song, playing tennis & golf, enjoy seeing arts especially opera & musical, travel. I am also busy with taking care of grandchildren. I passed Government Licensed Guide Exam. in 2016. After I retired in 2017, I started guide job as a part timer. So far, I accomplished guide job more than 500 times.
    My area coverage is from Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji to Kyoto, Nara, Oaka, Hiroshima. I am also able to guide Tea Ceremony, Maiko/Geisha, Sushi Making, Calligraphy, Sumo, Samurai, etc. I can speak excellent English. My knowledge is very wide and deep about not only sightseeing places but Japanese History, Culture, Religion, Daily Life. I know many foreign countries and people. I love talking with all kinds of people including babies with interesting humor.
    By the way, I look young for my age of 74.

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    Jul 16, 2026
    salomons666
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto fun
    Amazing with our guide Shuji very kind and acknowledge

    Jul 15, 2026
    P9099TXkennethr
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    A great day
    A great day in the Company of mr. Shuji.

    Jun 28, 2026
    A
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    AmyfromPlano
    Shuji is the best! Once we booked this tour, he reached…

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    yeseniag981
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Osaka Tour
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  • Osaka in Half a Day: Shin-Osaka Station

    Osaka in Half a Day: Shin-Osaka Station

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:45 Meet at Shin-Osaka Station
    • 10:40~12:00　　Osaka Castle Park – Castle Tower
    • 12:20~13:50　　Sennichimae – Namba Yasaka Shrine – Dotonbori
    • 14:15 Shin-Osaka Station

    What Is a Private Osaka Day Tour Like on a Rainy Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The day began with heavy rain from early morning, and in the early email exchange with the guests there was a real possibility of cancellation. However, since they were coming from Kyoto by Shinkansen, we decided one hour before the tour start to go ahead. Fortunately, by around 10:00 the rain eased to a light drizzle, and we spent a relaxed time at Osaka Castle Park, the observation deck of the castle keep, and the museum, having an interesting discussion about the city of Osaka, the history of the battles at Osaka Castle, and the relationship between the Toyotomi and Tokugawa families. By early afternoon the rain stopped, and after a lunch break we passed through Namba Sennichimae, Namba Yasaka Shrine, and Dotonbori before I saw the guests off at Shin-Osaka Station.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShin-Osaka～Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Namba240JPY
    Section 3SubwayNamba～Shin-Osaka290JPY
    Total770JPY

    Tour Report by shige

    Hello, This is Shige. I was born and brought up in Osaka. I have been enjoying working as a tour guide since 2016 after retired from a manufacturing company in which I worked at the overseas department. So I experienced a lot of business with customers in Europe, Asia, Australia, and USA where my three years of living and working at the subsidiary company with my family was the most amazing experience of my life. Well, Japan has a long history including ancient remains, historic buildings and cultures at each period over 2000 years. I hope you will enjoy exploring Japan in this tour. I look forward to seeing you soon.
    Shige.

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    May 23, 2026
    Sarajean_s
    Viator review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful way to get acquainted with Kyoto
    Shige was a…

    May 21, 2026
    828vickeyb
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Shige is a great tour guide for Kyoto
    Shige was an excellent…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Mariana_M
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking Tour with Shige
    Shige was an amazing tour guide and companion…

    Jul 4, 2025
    Marcus_C
    Osaka tour 2025
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful tour around Osaka. Our guide…

  • Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at hotel→10:37 Board JR rapid train bound for Nara→11:30 Arrive at JR Nara Station　→　12:00　Nara Park・Todai-ji Temple　→13:10 Lunch (tonkatsu)→14:10 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • →15:20 Naramachi Nigiwai-no-Ie・Sake tasting at Harushika　→17:07 Board JR rapid train bound for Kyoto→15:53 Arrive at Kyoto Station　→16:00 Guide to the taxi stand and end tour

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Nara Like in the Rain? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time. Email communication had not gone smoothly, and there was considerable concern about whether public transportation would run during heavy rain at warning levels, but things went more easily than expected. In the afternoon the rain stopped and the weather improved, which was a great help. No umbrella was needed within Nara city. However, although I had proposed meeting at Kyoto Station, the guests requested a pickup at their accommodation near Nanzen-ji Temple. As a result, it took time to travel to Kyoto Station, and the schedule within Nara became quite tight, so we were unable to visit Kofuku-ji Temple. The guests toured very enthusiastically, seeing the Great Buddha at Todai-ji Temple, the lanterns at Kasuga Taisha Shrine, the deer in Nara Park, and the "Nigiwai-no-ie" house in Naramachi. The photo was taken at the entrance to Kasuga Taisha Shrine.

    Click here for more details: Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherNanzen-ji Ryokan Yachiyo～Kyoto Station0JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto～Nara720JPY
    Section 3Free PassWithin Nara City～Within Nara City600JPY
    Section 4TrainNara～Kyoto720JPY
    Total2,040JPY

    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.

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

    Jul 23, 2026
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    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
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