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

    • 11:00 Hotel – 11:40 Meiji Shrine – 12:30 Meiji Shrine Inner Garden – 13:30 Harajuku Takeshita Street – 14:30 Lunch – 15:45 Imperial Palace East Gardens – 17:00 Asakusa Sensoji Temple – 17:15 Dismissal

    The guests were visitors from North America, traveling in Japan for the first time and full of excitement as they set off. Everyone had a SUICA card, which made getting around very smooth and easy. At Meiji Shrine, perhaps because it was an auspicious day on the traditional calendar, we were able to watch a wedding procession pass right in front of us, and the explanation of the "tsunokakushi" bridal headdress made a strong impression, giving the guests a glimpse into Japanese views on religion and tradition. We walked from Takeshita Street in Harajuku through the backstreets of Ura-Harajuku and eventually arrived at a tonkatsu restaurant, where we enjoyed a delicious lunch of katsu curry and katsu sandwiches. After a short visit to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace in the rain, we parted ways in Asakusa.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAkasaka-mitsuke～Yotsuya178JPY
    Section 2TrainYotsuya～Yoyogi146JPY
    Section 3SubwayOmotesando～Otemachi178JPY
    Section 4SubwayOtemachi～Asakusa178JPY
    Total680JPY

    Tour Report by Michio

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in One Day: Travel to Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kyoto in One Day: Travel to Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 　Due to the guest's schedule, arrival delayed by 30 minutes, meet at the west ticket gate of Hankyu Karasuma Station
    • 10:30～10:45 Travel to Nijo Castle (Subway Shijo Station to Nijojo-mae Station)
    • 10:45～12:15 Nijo Castle, Ninomaru Palace, gardens
    • 12:15～12:45 Travel toward Shijo Karasuma (Subway Nijojo-mae Station to Shijo Station)
    • 12:45～13:15 Lunch (Ramen Miryokuya Shijo Karasuma branch)
    • 13:15～13:45 Stroll through Nishiki Market, visit Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine
    • 13:45～14:30 Pontocho photo stop, Gion, stroll around Kennin-ji Temple grounds
    • 14:30～15:00 Travel to Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 15:00～16:00 Stroll around Kiyomizu-dera Temple, disband on-site

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nijo Castle, Higashiyama, Gion, and Kiyomizu-dera The guests were visiting Japan for the first time and viewed each destination with great interest. The day before, since the weather forecast was not very good, they asked about the possibility of changing the date, but when I replied that this would be difficult, we proceeded as planned. In addition to Nijo Castle, the Higashiyama area, Gion, and Kiyomizu-dera, which they had requested, they mentioned that they had not yet visited a market even in Osaka, so I arranged lunch near Nishiki Market. They seemed to especially enjoy Nishiki Market, and since they had no plans the following day, they were considering revisiting it on their own. At the very end we were caught in a heavy downpour, but they calmly waited for the rain to pass without any complaints. They were such gentle guests, and I was very grateful.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShijo～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijojo-mae～Shijo220JPY
    Total440JPY

    Tour Report by Kaori

    Hi! Thank you for choosing us. I am very glad to be assigned as your guide, and to help you have a good time in Japan. While you are in Japan, I would like you to try some sweets (if you are allowed by the doctor, of course). There are so many kinds, but among them, I would like to recommend Ice cream, even in autumn or winter (enjoyable in a warm room). Have you ever tried a kind of ice cream, which is called Soft Cream in Japan? It’s much softer and creamier than usual ice cream, and sold in many varieties of flavor. Matcha flavour ones are easily found, or chocolate ones, but also they sell local flavors to boost the sales of their local products. To name some, delicious fruit flavours such as yuzu (citrus) or grapes, or strange ones with wasabi (a bit spicy and fragrant) or miso (usually used for salty soups, but tastes like caramel when it is sweetened). Shaved ice is good, too. I have an ice shaving machine in my house, but I wouldn’t bring it to a tour. I look forward to seeing you and helping you enjoy your day in Japan!

    Request Booking

    Oct 17, 2025
    maggiesL3053CQ
    A day in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kaori Matsumura was very knowledgeable and easy to…

    Oct 5, 2025
    Brian_B
    Kyoto with Kaori
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Kaori was incredible. We had…

    Aug 28, 2025
    jmnTravel
    Learning About Ise Shrines
    Tripadvisor review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very good tour to the…

    Jun 9, 2025
    Mobile08859304969
    Superstar Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kaori was an absolute superstar guide. She corresponded with us…

  • 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

    • 0930 Meet at Hotel Shiodome Italia-gai (midway between JR Hamamatsucho Station and Shimbashi Station)
    • 1000 Akihabara: Radio Kaikan~Animate~Suehirocho
    • 1050 Asakusa: Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, Nakamise
    • 1250 Nippori Station~Yanaka Ginza~Yomise Street~Nezu Shrine
    • 1450 Meiji Shrine First Torii~Takeshita Street
    • 1530 Shinjuku: 3D Cat Display~Godzilla Road~Omoide Yokocho
    • 1540 Disband at Omoide Yokocho

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like for Visitors from Europe? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. I did not ask in detail about their relationships. Their mother tongue appeared to be German, and conversation within the group was in German. At the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, I obtained and handed them a German-language Tokyo Travel Guide. They had arrived late the previous night and, after staying in Tokyo, planned to visit Kanazawa, Kyoto, and Hiroshima, with some of the guests returning home via Okinawa. Since they had requested Akihabara during our prior arrangements, I asked what they were interested in, but they said nothing in particular—just a general interest. However, once we got off at the station, the expressions of some of the guests changed. It was before opening hours, so few shops were open, but at the Radio Kaikan building they were delighted with the shops that were open. It seems they plan to return there later today. When we arrived in Asakusa the weather had cleared up (the forecast had been for rain), which gave us hope for the day ahead. However, it began to rain as we came down from the Yanaka-Nezu-Sendagi area, and by the time we reached Meiji Shrine the rain had become quite heavy. Given the timing, visiting Meiji Shrine itself was difficult, so I gave an overview at the first torii gate. Because a Vietnam Festival was being held at Yoyogi Park, the area around Harajuku Station was extremely crowded. We only glanced at Takeshita Street before retreating. At Omoide Yokocho, the guests said they would explore on their own, so we parted ways here.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShimbashi～Akihabara167JPY
    Section 2SubwaySuehirocho～Asakusa178JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa～Ueno178JPY
    Section 4TrainUeno～Nippori146JPY
    Section 5SubwayNezu～Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Section 6TrainHarajuku～Shinjuku146JPY
    Total1,024JPY

    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…

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

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30: Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 9:30~9:45　Travel (Keihan Electric Railway)
    • 9:45~10:30　Sanjusangendo
    • 10:30~11:15　Travel (Keihan Electric Railway→Hankyu Railway→Kyoto Municipal Subway)
    • 11:15~12:00　Lunch @ Aito (Ramen Restaurant)
    • 12:00~13:00　Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 13:00~13:30　Travel (Kyoto Municipal Subway)
    • 13:30~14:30　Nijo Castle
    • 14:30　Disband @ Nijo Castle

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like from Fushimi Inari? A Licensed Guide's Report Originally, the plan was to pick up the guests at the Hotel in Kyoto at 10:00, but since starting earlier helps avoid crowds and the guests wished to use travel time for guiding as well, we arranged two days in advance to meet in front of the large torii gate at Fushimi Inari Taisha, the first planned destination. The guests had a deep interest in Japanese culture, having spent time in Japan before, and they listened attentively to my explanations. There were many questions about Japanese history and the current situation in Japan. The guests were polite and engaged, occasionally asking about Japanese history as well, and now and then checking a smartphone in a modern, natural way, but always courteous. At Fushimi Inari Taisha, the guests were able to experience the chinowa-kuguri (passing through a ring of reeds), and a kagura dedication was also being performed, which they watched intently. When we reached the midpoint of the Senbon Torii and I asked whether they wished to continue walking, they said they would like to walk for about five more minutes, so I guided them to the Nenagari-no-Matsu (the "upturned root" pine). After Fushimi Inari Taisha, I had originally suggested Kiyomizu-dera, but since a cycling tour they had arranged in advance had been cancelled, the guests requested visits to Nijo Castle and the Kyoto Imperial Palace instead. Since one of the guests had attended Amherst College, the same college where Joseph Hardy Neesima, the founder of Doshisha University located across from the palace, had once studied, I felt the Kyoto Imperial Palace was an absolute must-see. So rather than Kiyomizu-dera, I proposed Sanjusangendo, which has a smaller area to cover. As Sanjusangendo does not have a garden to view, it was completed rather more quickly than I had expected. Since the guests had not eaten breakfast, we had lunch at a ramen shop near Imadegawa Station before entering the Kyoto Imperial Palace. They ordered karaage and rice and seemed very pleased. At the Kyoto Imperial Palace and Nijo Castle, the guests were moved by the beauty of the art objects and furnishings. When I explained that Nijo Castle had once come into the possession of the Imperial family, which is why the chrysanthemum crest can be seen in various places, they showed great interest. The photo was taken in the garden of the Kyoto Imperial Palace. After we finished viewing the garden at Nijo Castle, the tour time had just come to an end, so we said our goodbyes in front of Nijo Castle.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainFushimi Inari～Shichijo170JPY
    Section 2TrainShichijo～Gion-Shijo170JPY
    Section 3TrainKawaramachi～Karasuma170JPY
    Section 4TrainShijo～Imadegawa260JPY
    Section 5TrainImadegawa～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Total990JPY

    Tour Report by Satoko

    I am a 53-year-old woman, living in Kyoto for nearly 40 years. I got the license in 2001. Since then, I worked as an interpreter or a translator in several companies, secretary at universities, and now work for a company on weekdays at the international dept.I do guiding job only weekend now. I started full swing guiding career after COVID-19 pandemic. I have gotten good review from many of my guests. I love my hometown, Kyoto which has a lot of interesting and historical sites to see. Particularly, I am native to Arashiyama which is famous for bamboo forest. So, I know a lot of places where you can relax yourself around this area. Other than that, Kyoto has many attractive sites which surely interest you.Also, I like meeting many people from different cultural background. I am very happy if I learn about your culture as well. Let’s enjoy exploring around Kyoto!

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    May 18, 2026
    WENDY_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent day out
    The trip was really well planned and organised, it…

    Sep 21, 2025
    joshsJ915FC
    Super tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Really wonderful tour of markets and geisha district.…

    Jun 16, 2025
    Chanyl C
    Highly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My husband and I really enjoyed the Kyoto tour.…

    May 18, 2025
    Steve J
    A relaxing, enjoyable visit to Arashiyama.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Satori was very kind and…

  • 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

    • 9：30　Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 9：30　By bus to the museum
    • 9：50　Arrive at the museum
    • 　　　　Museum　Monument tour
    • 12：40　Monument tour ends
    • 12：50　Okonomiyaki at Benbee
    • 13：20　Finish meal　To Hondori Station
    • 13：35　From Hondori Station to Shin-Hakushima Station
    • 13：48　From Shin-Hakushima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station
    • 14：11　Arrive at Miyajimaguchi Station
    • 14：30　From Miyajimaguchi Pier to Miyajima
    • 14：40　Arrive at Miyajima
    • 　　　　Shrine　Senjokaku　Daishoin　Omotesando
    • 16：40　Finish sightseeing in Miyajima, head to Miyajimaguchi
    • 16：50　Arrive at Miyajimaguchi
    • 17：00　From Miyajimaguchi to Hiroshima Station
    • 17；20　Disband at Araiguchi Station

    What Is a Private Guided Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from North America. They were very pleasant and easy to get along with. At the museum, they looked at the exhibits with great interest and listened attentively to my explanations. They showed little interest in the Peace Park or in souvenirs on Miyajima, but were very keen on visiting the monuments and shrines. The group did not enter the Henjokutsu cave at Daishoin. In hindsight, I felt that more careful consideration of their preferences would have been appropriate. They listened with great interest to stories about momiji manju, Ito Hirobumi, and why okonomiyaki is considered a soul food of Hiroshima. On Miyajima, they enjoyed freshly baked momiji manju. They were also surprised to find an oyster vending machine on Miyajima and took photos of it.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHiroshima Station～Museum220JPY
    Section 2TrainHondori～Shin-Hakushima190JPY
    Section 3TrainShin-Hakushima～Miyajimaguchi330JPY
    Total740JPY

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

    Request Booking

    Sep 25, 2025
    pedropM3071GD
    Amazing day trip
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    This was an amazing experience to…

    Jul 25, 2025
    ourtravelingt
    Great personalized tour
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our tour was fabulous and our…

    Jul 13, 2025
    katherinepE2305IO
    Hiroshima Tour 4hr Walking
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was an amazing guide. He…

    Jul 7, 2025
    Preston_H
    Great tour guide!
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was an incredible guide who…

  • 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

    • 1.08:00 Meet up @ Hotel Higashi-Shinjuku Kabukicho
    • 2.09:30 @ Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 3.11:00 @ Meiji Shrine
    • 4.11:30 @ Takeshita Street, Ura-Harajuku
    • 5.12:30 Lunch @ Moninoki House Harajuku
    • 6.13:30 @ Cat Street
    • 7.13:50 @ Shibuya Crossing
    • 8.14:00 Disband @ Escort you to the entrance of Shibuya Sky and disband

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya The guests were a group, some of whom were visiting Japan for the first time, while others had been to Japan once before the previous year. At Tsukiji, the guests enjoyed strawberry daifuku and sushi, and everyone offered prayers together at Meiji Shrine. On Takeshita Street, the guests had fun purchasing sunglasses with unusual designs. I made a reservation at a vegetarian restaurant, and the guests enjoyed the atmosphere there. After that, it began to rain. The guests had a reservation for Shibuya Sky, and although the rooftop was closed, they still wished to go, so I guided them to the entrance and concluded the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Shinjuku～Tsukiji Market272JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji～Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Total481JPY

    Tour Report by FUMIKO

    Hello, I am Fumiko, an English-speaking Tourist Guide. I have been guiding foreign visitors science 2016. Please let me know your bucket lists whiles you are staying in Japan and what you are interested in. I will make the best plan for you. This is an once in a lifetime experience for you. As for myself, I love traveling, meeting people, eating local food, drinking, history, and art. I am learning Ikebana, traditional Japanese-style flower arrangement, and tea ceremony. I also love sports, especially tennis. I like children, so I can teach them some origami, folding paper. I am looking forward to hearing from you and seeing you in Japan.

    Request Booking

    Jul 27, 2026
    zyarisa
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko tour good vibes only
    Mrs. fumiko was very…

    Jul 23, 2026
    734mortenp
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Nice tour of Tokyo
    Don’t visit Tokyo without a guide! You’ll…

    Jul 10, 2026
    Jessica_A
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko was wonderful. …
    Fumiko was wonderful. You can…

    Jun 28, 2026
    alistairn2016
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fumiko is a great tour guide – informative, friendly and very well…

  • 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

    • 10:00 Meet at Hotel, departure➡Kinkakuji Temple➡Nijo Castle➡Lunch at Kiyomizuzaka➡Kiyomizu Temple➡Starbucks at Ninenzaka➡We had planned to head to Gion, but due to heavy rain we disbanded and the guests took a taxi to the hotel (16:00)

    **Title:** What's a Private Family Day Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America, who had just arrived the day before. They wanted to be taken to places other than those covered by a tour they would join the following day, so we decided on the destinations together. After arriving in Kyoto the previous day, they had gone straight to Nishiki Market and enjoyed a variety of Japanese foods. One of the main purposes of their trip was Japanese cuisine. For lunch they had katsudon and said it was delicious. At the request of one of the guests, we had planned to visit Nintendo KYOTO in Takashimaya before parting ways, but unfortunately heavy rain forced us to cancel that plan and return to the hotel instead. In the end, the guests told me they had thoroughly enjoyed the day.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShichijo～Sanjo170JPY
    Section 2SubwaySanjo Keihan～Kitaoji260JPY
    Section 3BusKitaoji Bus Terminal～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Total660JPY

    Tour Report by Emi

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Nara in One Day: Kofukuji Temple & Ukimido

    Nara in One Day: Kofukuji Temple & Ukimido

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:56 Kintetsu-Nara Station (Start of Tour)
    • Walk for 5 minutes
    • mochi-pounding at Nakatani-do
    • 10:10 Kofukuji Temple
    • 10:40 Himuro-jinja Shrine
    • 10:50 Yoshikien Garden
    • walk for 10 minutes
    • 11:10 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate)
    • walk for 5 minutes
    • 11:20 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall
    • walk for 5 minutes
    • 12:00 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower
    • walk for 5 minutes
    • 12:10 Todaiji's Nigatsudo Hall (light lunch or snack?)
    • walk for 5 minutes
    • 12:50 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill: former katana sword manufacturer's shop
    • walk for 5 minutes
    • 13:00 Kasuga-taisha Shrine (UNESCO World Heritage)
    • entrance: 500 yen
    • walk for 5 minutes
    • 13:50 Ukimido
    • 14:10 Nara-machi (Old Quarters of the town): sake tasting etc.
    • walk for 10 minutes
    • 15:30 Nara Prefectural Government Office Rooftop Observation Deck
    • 16:30 back at Kintetsu-Nara Station (End of Tour)

    What Is a Private Nara Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I had another wonderful and enjoyable day. Thanks to the rapport we had built through our correspondence beforehand, it didn't feel like a first meeting at all, and the guest was relaxed, so we talked non-stop throughout the day. The guest showed keen interest in every place we visited, and I was greatly helped by the well-focused questions. Discussions about religion, politics, and history all became dialogues rather than one-way explanations. By coincidence, we discovered that the guest was also planning to visit an art exhibition featuring an artist I will be guiding on the 19th, which surprised us both again. The guest said they would come back to Nara again in the near future.

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

    Tour Report by Junichi

    Hello! Thank you for choosing Nara! I bet you’ll love Nara. I specialize in Nara because Nara is the unique place where in one day you can cover the history and religions of Japan from the ancient times to the post war era while enjoying rambling in the UNESCO World Heritage park, having communication with lovely deer, surrounded with the beautiful nature.
    I grew up in Nara, went university in Kyoto, enjoyed teaching at high schools and a university in Osaka. The three former capitals of Japan are home to me.
    After retiring from teaching I began guiding so that I can meet various people from various corners of the world with a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Each time I guide, I find it hugely rewarding because I learn a lot from my guests sharing the history, culture and all that I know about Nara, Kyoto and Osaka.
    I used to be a marathon runner, mountain climber and skier though I am not much of them anymore.
    What I especially recommend is to stay in Nara a couple of days and enjoy communicating with friendly deer while visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nara in early morning, temples and shrines at night are well worth experiencing.

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    May 16, 2026
    I3520JTcristinat
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nara with family
    Excellent tour with Junichi!!! Perfect English speaking guide and…

    May 3, 2026
    Maria_J
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyable day in Nara
    We spent 6 hours in Nara with Junichi…

    Apr 11, 2026
    64sandig
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Osaka DEP. with Licensed Guide
    ????? Absolutely Outstanding ? Junichi Made Our Nara Day…

    Mar 30, 2026
    dpadillachavez
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
    Great day at Nara!
    Best tour on Nara, Junichi…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Hotel Yoyogi Park & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Hotel Yoyogi Park & Asakusa

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30　Hotel Yoyogi Park
    • 10:00 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 11:30 Break at Starbucks at Wadakuramon
    • 12:15-13:15 Help with JR Pass reservation at Tokyo Station
    • 13:45 Asakusa
    • 15:00 UNIQLO Asakusa Store
    • Guide the guest to Ginza via the Ginza Line and finish

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Until the day of the tour, emails and SMS messages kept failing to send, and there was no sign that the messaging app had been read. Matsubara from [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) advised me, "If you cannot reach them before the day, please go to the hotel at 9:30." The day before, I confirmed with the hotel that they had checked in, so on the day I headed to the hotel. The guests arrived on time, which was a relief. The guests were visitors from North America. The guests seemed to prefer artistic experiences, mentioning places such as Naoshima, the outdoor library at a resort in Karuizawa, and the Yayoi Kusama Museum. Today I guided them around the representative sightseeing spots on the eastern side. They were very pleased to be able to reserve JR train tickets. They were disappointed that the Nozomi trains are not included in the JR Pass. In the latter half we were caught in the rain in Asakusa, but overall they seemed very pleased. They did not have a sit-down lunch, and instead enjoyed street food in Asakusa such as menchi-katsu and rice burgers.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayYoyogi Park～Otemachi209JPY
    Section 2TrainTokyo～Kanda146JPY
    Section 3SubwayKanda～Asakusa178JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa～Ginza209JPY
    Total742JPY

    Tour Report by Maki

    Hello!
    I’m Maki. Nice to meet you.
    I used to work at a travel agency as a tour escort so I have traveled to more than 50 countries and all 47 prefectures in Japan.
    When I came back to Japan from abroad, I always noticed virtues in Japan anew.
    I’m thrilled to introduce such kinds of stories and favorite places to you.
    I like bar hopping, cooking, history, and outdoor activities such as camping, cycling.
    I have a licence of International Sake Sommlier and Wine Expert. I’m happy if I would have a chance to introduce you about sake and wine.
    I’m also a mother of junior high school girl. Let’s have fun together!

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    Oct 9, 2025
    301catherinep
    Fabulous customised tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Maki is a wonderful, well informed guide. She customised…

    Oct 2, 2025
    Gene L
    Our 6 hour tour with Maki was fantastic
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and…

    Aug 31, 2025
    T
    tmay2921
    Maki is the best!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an absolutely wonderful day exploring…

    Jul 12, 2025
    O6400ONsaram
    Maki san kakkoii desu
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Maki was generous and flexible! She met us…

  • 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

    • 0700 Meet at Dhawa Yura Kyoto
    • 0740 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 0920 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 1120 Nijo Castle
    • 1230 Daimaru
    • 1245 Nishiki Market
    • 1310 Disband at Nishiki Market

    What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, and Nishiki Market Because we started early in the morning, Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kiyomizu-dera were relatively uncrowded, and we were able to move through them smoothly. The guests did quite a bit of shopping, so the schedule fell a little behind in the second half, but we were able to reach Nishiki Market by early afternoon, and at the guests' request we parted ways there. One of the guests had arrived in Japan only the day before, so they were experiencing some jet lag and seemed a little tired. The rest of the group had already spent a few days in Tokyo beforehand, and seemed very energetic and to be enjoying themselves. The weather was almost hot, but overall it turned out to be a refreshing tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSanjo～Fushimi Inari220JPY
    Section 2TrainInari～Tofukuji150JPY
    Section 3BusTofukuji～Kiyomizu-michi230JPY
    Section 4BusKiyomizu-michi～Higashiyama Sanjo230JPY
    Section 5SubwayHigashiyama～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 6SubwayNijojo-mae～Shijo220JPY
    Total1,270JPY

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    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…