Category: Uncategorized

  • Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • Ujina Port (9:30) → Travel by taxi → Peace Memorial Museum (10:00) → Peace Park (11:00) → EDION (11:40) → Hiroshima Castle (12:00) → Shukkeien Garden (13:30) Dismissal

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Hiroshima's Peace Park Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They were very cheerful and were enjoying their trip in Japan. The museum was not crowded at the entrance or inside, so they were able to take their time viewing the exhibits. It was memorable that one of the guests was deeply shocked and shed tears. They said that everyone should come to the museum. While strolling through the Peace Memorial Park, they saw the paper cranes at the Children's Peace Monument and wanted to try folding them, so we all folded cranes together and offered them. Since they wanted a phone charger, we made a quick stop at an electronics store where they did some shopping, and after that we went to Hiroshima Castle and Shukkeien Garden. The weather was fine throughout, and they took photos while enjoying the scenery. After Shukkeien Garden, I called a taxi to take them to the port, and we said our goodbyes.

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

    Tour Report by Yoko

    Hello. My name is Yoko Shimada.　Families traveling with children are always welcome. I have more than 15 years of experience teaching English to children from toddlers to junior high school students, and I currently work as an online Japanese teacher, especially for children from around the world.
    I am a licensed childcare worker, a certified junior high and high school English teacher in Japan, and a guide interpreter licensed by the Hiroshima Prefectural Government.
    Because of my experience working with children, I always try to create tours that are warm, flexible, and comfortable for guests of all ages.
    I enjoy creating interactive and memorable experiences through conversation, local stories, and small cultural activities such as origami.
    I was born in Ehime, raised in Shimane and Hiroshima, and have lived in Hiroshima for more than 30 years. I love meeting people from different countries and learning about different cultures, so please tell me about your country too!
    I’m passionate about sharing Hiroshima’s history, culture, food, and beautiful local spots with you, and I will do my best to make your visit enjoyable, memorable, and special.　I’m really looking forward to meeting you!

    Request Booking

    Jul 14, 2026
    alexandergF7340GJ
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    Great Hiroshima tour with Yoko
    Great experience and fantastic private tour…

    Jul 5, 2026
    568jettek
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mayajima
    Yoko Shimida was our guide on July 5, 2026 to…

    Jul 3, 2026
    X2480VKlizc
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima tour
    Yoko was well knowledgeable and catered to…

    Jun 18, 2026
    fdorerabadia
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Thank you, Yoko-san!
    We booked this full-day tour directly…

  • Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera & Arashiyama (Bamboo Grove)

    Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera & Arashiyama (Bamboo Grove)

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Okamoto Main Store Kimono Rental (Kiyomizu-dera)
    • 10:40 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 11:50 Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka Lunch
    • 13:15 Yasaka Shrine
    • 13:45 Gion
    • 14:40 Fushimi Inari
    • 16:40 Arashiyama (Bamboo Grove)
    • 18:30 Finish at Hotel Shijo Omiya

    What's an 8-Hour Private Kimono Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. Based on prior email communication, they wanted to start the tour after putting on rental kimono, so we met at a kimono rental shop. I had let them know in advance that sandals might make walking difficult, so they wore shoes instead. Since they were not used to wearing kimono and the weather was hot, we proceeded with the 8-hour tour while taking frequent rests. They seemed to be looking forward to exploring Kyoto in kimono, so we took many photos at each location. Toward the end of the tour they appeared tired, but I believe they were satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGion-Shijo～Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Section 2TrainInari～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)～Shijo-Omiya250JPY
    Total730JPY

    Tour Report by Kuni

    Hi I am Kunihiro ARAKAWA, National government licensed tour guide.
    Please call me first name Kuni.
    My original city is Nagoya, but I lived in Tokyo for 20 years,
    and also lived in London and Paris for work.
    Now I live in Kyoto city. I moved here because I love Kyoto.
    I like taking photos and also sell my own photos on website.
    I’d love to take memorable photos for you at great photo spots.
    I also like history and gourmet food.
    I’d love to introduce some local recommendations.
    I’ll ask your request and create your special tour.
    Please feel free to let us know your thoughts.
    Looking forward to meeting you !

    Kuni

    Request Booking

    Jul 18, 2026
    M2443VKandrewl
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Excellent guide and support
    Kuni-san was an excellent guide and…

    Jun 9, 2026
    Gail M
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Kyoto Sights; Private Guide & Driver
    The…

    Jun 5, 2026
    Rick_S
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    An afternoon in Kyoto
    We had a great time exploring Kyoto. Our…

    May 16, 2026
    sydneybA4751LA
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 private tour of Kyoto!
    Kuni was amazing as our private tour…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Board JR & Orizuru Tower

    Hiroshima in One Day: Board JR & Orizuru Tower

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

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:20　Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 9:34　Board JR
    • 10:00　Arrive at Miyajimaguchi
    • 10:10　Board ferry
    • 10:20　Arrive at Miyajima
    • 10:30〜11:30　Great Torii Gate, Itsukushima Shrine
    • 11:45〜12:20　Daisho-in Temple
    • 12:30　Drink break on Omotesando
    • 13:10　Board World Heritage Sea Route
    • 14:00　Lunch
    • 15:00　Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
    • 16:00　Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
    • 17:00　Orizuru Tower
    • 17:40　Disband at Orizuru Tower

    What Is a Private Miyajima and Itsukushima Shrine Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. They seemed to really enjoy taking photographs, and at Miyajima they took many pictures with great care. At Itsukushima Shrine, a bride in traditional Japanese attire happened to be having a photo shoot, so I asked if it would be possible to take a photo together, and they kindly agreed, allowing the guests to have their picture taken alongside her. Since this was such a rare opportunity, the guests were very pleased. They also greatly enjoyed the okonomiyaki we had for lunch. They said that while the okonomiyaki in Osaka had been delicious, the okonomiyaki in Hiroshima was even better, and they were delighted.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima～Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2OtherMiyajima～Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park1,200JPY
    Total1,620JPY

    Tour Report by LISA

    Embark on an unforgettable journey through Hiroshima Prefecture with a passionate and knowledgeable guide!

    As a certified interpreter guide based in Hiroshima, I offer you an exclusive and personalized experience. From the poignant history of Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park to the serene beauty of Miyajima Island, I will share captivating stories and insights that bring these iconic sites to life.

    My fluency in both English and Japanese ensures a seamless and enriching experience, bridging the gap between languages and cultures. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking to immerse yourself in Japanese culture, I tailor each tour to your interests and pace, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable adventure.

    Request Booking

    Jun 22, 2026
    Rachel M
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Powerful day of one of the worst tragedies…

    Jun 5, 2026
    777mannyr
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima private tour
    Lisa Y. Did an amazing job.…

    May 25, 2026
    maryroses96
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Bloomers in Hiroshima
    We had a fantastic day with…

    Apr 23, 2026
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Attentive And Tailored
    Lisa was such a gift to us.…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tokyo Station & Shinjuku Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Tokyo Station & Shinjuku Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meeting place: Hotel
    • 8:40 Departure from hotel
    • (on foot)
    • Tokyo Station
    • Tokyo Station Eki Tabi Concierge
    • 8:50 Departure from Tokyo Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 9:30 Arrival at Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 10:15 Departure from Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 10:45 Arrival at Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Uogashi
    • Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 11:30 Departure from Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 12:00 Arrival at Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • 12:45 Departure from Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • 13:00 Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • Shinjuku Lunch: Tsukiji Sushisei
    • Kabukicho
    • Omoide Yokocho
    • 14:00 Departure from Shinjuku Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 14:30 Arrival at Tokyo Station
    • 14:30 Dismissal: Tokyo Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, Meiji Shrine, and Shinjuku The guests were visitors from Oceania, and it was their first visit to Japan. The purpose of this trip was a long stay in Japan, with plans to start in Tokyo and travel around the whole country. They had arrived at Haneda Airport the previous evening and taken a taxi to their hotel. Before arriving in Japan they had spent time in Asia, and after Japan they planned to head to Oceania for another extended stay before returning home. The previous day they had explored inside Tokyo Station, but found it surprisingly quiet with many shops closed. Their wish for today was to visit the main areas of central Tokyo and get a sense of the transportation system. It was a tour under clear skies, in weather warm enough to feel hot. Since they wanted to obtain a SUICA card, we first went to the Ekitabi Concierge at Tokyo Station. After that, we moved to Asakusa. Starting from in front of Kaminarimon Gate, I explained about Sensoji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo, what the five-story pagoda is for, what Buddhism is, and the difference between Buddhism and Shinto. We took commemorative photos at Kaminarimon and various other spots, and slowly strolled through the crowded Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as "What are Japan's main religions?", "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", and "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people believe in?" There was also a question about why some people in kimono could be seen within the temple grounds. From here, we went to Tsukiji, which was as crowded as ever. I explained the history of the fish market since the Edo period and the difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market. There were questions and comments such as "Do all Tokyo residents come here to buy fish?" and "It's crowded, but it does seem like there are many tourists." They said they wanted to try some food, and in the end they purchased and sampled grilled crab and grilled beef skewers. They remarked that compared to fish markets they had seen elsewhere, this one was by far cleaner and completely different. We moved to Harajuku. Meiji Shrine was full of tourists. I explained about Shinto, the torii gates, Emperor Meiji, why sake barrels are displayed, and why wine barrels are also displayed. There were questions such as "What kind of religion is Shinto?" and "How do Buddhism and Shinto differ?" Then to Shinjuku Sanchome. Since they wished to have sushi for lunch, we went to a sushi restaurant in a department store building. Interestingly, they enjoyed an assorted sashimi platter and also savored some sake. Sitting at the counter, they repeatedly photographed the sushi chef preparing the sushi. After this, we walked through Shinjuku Golden Gai, Kabukicho, and Omoide Yokocho. There were comments and questions such as "The streets are clean and there's no litter," "There are no trash cans on the streets—why is that?", "Everyone is quiet on the trains," and "There are vending machines everywhere." I saw them off at Tokyo Station on the Marunouchi Line, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherTokyo～Asakusa210JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa～Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 3TrainTsukiji～Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 4TrainMeiji-jingumae～Shinjuku-sanchome180JPY
    Section 5TrainShinjuku (Tokyo Metro)～Tokyo210JPY
    Total1,020JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel
    • 10:05 Shinjuku Kabukicho (Blue Fence, Girls Bar girls, Godzilla Head gossip, Host Club, Hostess Club, Fugu Restaurant, Golden Gai, 3Dcat)
    • 11:45 Asakusa (Yoroshi Keshodo, long stay at Seisuke Blades)
    • 14:00 Lunch at Toki no Niwa
    • 15:20 Shibuya (view from Mark City and the crossing)
    • 16:20 Disband at Shinjuku Station East Exit

    What's a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like for Cruise Ship Guests? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kabukicho, Asakusa, and Shibuya I guided the group who came from North America. They had been traveling around Japan by cruise ship, with Tokyo as the final port of call, making it effectively their last day. The pre-tour communication was the most extensive I have ever had, with 38 exchanges. The majority of these were about a geisha experience, and I think only two or three were about the tour itself. It started with "Do you know any geisha in Shimizu Port?" and, after I introduced Miyakodori, where I had trained last year, I repeatedly explained what a geisha experience is and where Miyakodori fits in, and let them decide on the outline. Mr. Kawamura of Miyakodori was truly wonderful to work with (thank you). Since I was worried about cancellation fees, I spoke with Miyakodori and had the guests' credit card registered in advance. I had also declined the request to escort them to Miyakodori, but on the day they asked, "Could you please do it after all?" so I took it on as an extension after the [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) tour had ended, arriving at Miyakodori at 19:15, 15 minutes before the banquet, greeting the proprietress and Mr. Kawamura, and finishing there. Now, as for the tour itself, in the case of a cruise, visits to each region are done by bus tour, so they had complaints that they could only go to fixed, standard places. On the other hand, the [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/) tour received the evaluation that it was "the best because we can go wherever we want to go." As a result, the plan I had proposed during the few exchanges about the tour quickly fell apart, and it became Kabukicho, Asakusa, and Shibuya, with me adapting flexibly in each place. In Kabukicho, everyone's eyes lit up, saying "This is an interesting place," with many questions, and they thoroughly enjoyed themselves, taking bizarre commemorative photos with some young men in front of a pufferfish restaurant. It seemed the group might head to Golden Gai after the geisha experience. In Asakusa, although they spent all their time searching for souvenirs, they also listened with interest to my introduction of Senso-ji Temple. In addition, we approached five Japanese female university students wearing kimono, obtained their permission, and took commemorative photos (thank you). So, after going well over time and having lunch (originally it was supposed to be Tsukiji), we headed to Shibuya because they wanted to "see the most crowded place in Japan." When they looked at it from Mark City, they said "Well, shall we head back to the hotel?" but when I suggested that since we came all this way, why not walk it, they said "Really? Then by all means," and everyone enjoyed the Shibuya Crossing. Everyone truly enjoyed themselves from the heart for six hours, so I also had a wonderful time being with them. However, the shopping requests were sudden and quite scattered among everyone: "I want to buy a kitchen knife," "I want to buy a suitcase near the hotel," "I want to buy a backpack," "I want to go to the Bape store," "I want to buy golf clubs." I managed to clear everything except the golf clubs, but it was quite tiring. (When I was told they wanted to go to the Bape store on the Yamanote Line heading back to the hotel in Shinjuku, I honestly wished they had told me earlier, but since I was told "It's a souvenir for my child," I took the other guests to a place they knew in Shinjuku (the [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/) tour ended there) and then returned to Shibuya.) But the guests were satisfied, which was the most important thing. I am also looking forward to the report on the geisha experience.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Kanda (Tokyo)210JPY
    Section 2SubwayKanda (Tokyo)～Asakusa180JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa～Shibuya260JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya～Shinjuku200JPY
    Total850JPY

    Tour Report by Danda

    Nice to meet you. I am delighted to introduce myself. My nickname is Danda. I live in Saitama prefecture next to Tokyo, but I was brought up in Kanazawa, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. My favorite things are bonsai and hiking. Also, I have been a big fun of history and sumo since my childhood. As for the guide, I have enjoyed making communication with foreign visitors since 2019. I have taken more than 30 private groups to not only major scenic spots but also their favorite places such as tea ceremony, maid cafe, sumo tournament, bonsai village, fire ritual and so on. I can arrange the original tour based on your requests and curiosity. It will be only for you. I look forward to meeting you soon. Thank you.

    Request Booking

    Apr 21, 2026
    Sabrina_F
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Balade riche en découvertes
    Nous avons passé un super moment avec Danda.…

    Apr 14, 2026
    davidjonesresponseen
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking tour with Danda in Tokyo
    Excellent walking tour, we followed our…

    Apr 10, 2026
    Anna_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour with great guide
    Excellent tour with a very good guide…

    Mar 25, 2026
    Nahmjee_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour guide and experience.
    Danda was great with my family. He…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Leave the hotel & Stroll around Yanaka

    Tokyo in One Day: Leave the hotel & Stroll around Yanaka

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Leave the hotel
    • 9:20-10:00 Guide around Meiji Shrine
    • 10:45-11:30 Guide around Nezu Shrine
    • 11:30 Stroll around Yanaka
    • 12:00-13;00 Eat soba at a soba restaurant
    • 13:00-14:00 Guide around Yanaka Cemetery, temples, etc.
    • 14:30-14;50 Guide around Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • 15:00 Disband at Shibuya

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Meiji Shrine, Yanaka, and Asakusa in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a visitor from South America who was taking an extended holiday, traveling through several countries in Asia before arriving in Japan. Having arrived a few days earlier, the guest had already explored quite a few places independently. The goal for today was to learn about the historical background of Meiji Shrine and Sensoji Temple. The guest especially wanted to walk through Tokyo's old, traditional streetscapes, so I carefully guided them around the Yanaka-Nezu-Sendagi (Yanesen) district. Since the guest wanted to try soba, I took them to one of my favorite soba restaurants. Afterward, I guided them around Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, including quieter back-street temples and shrines that visitors do not usually see.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku-sanchome～Meiji Shrine (Harajuku Station) / Shibuya-ku, Tokyo280JPY
    Section 2TrainMeiji Shrine (Harajuku Station) / Shibuya-ku, Tokyo～Nezu310JPY
    Section 3TrainNippori～Asakusa330JPY
    Section 4TrainAsakusa～Shibuya260JPY
    Total1,180JPY

    Tour Report by Mitch

    I am certified as a Top Guide by the JGA.
    Drawing on my past experience as a guide, where I have consistently received positive feedback from guests, I will focus on the following key points in my guiding:
    Explain the historical transition from Edo to Tokyo through engaging episodes and stories.
    Offer a cross-cultural perspective on why concepts such as honji suijaku (the idea of local deities being manifestations of Buddhist figures), as seen at places like Meiji Shrine, represent a worldview that Japan can be proud of.
    Provide warm and humorous interaction, incorporating the spirit of hospitality I learned while studying at Columbia University in the United States.
    Use my experience working at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government to explain Tokyo’s present-day situation with the support of statistical data.

    Request Booking

    Jul 7, 2026
    Ruppa_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great guide and first experience in Tokyo
    It was our first time…

    Jun 8, 2026
    TAMARA_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience!
    Great experience, learning a lot. Get to see a lots…

    May 7, 2026
    Marianela25
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great customized Itinerary with Mitch!
    Mitch was a fantastic tour guide. He…

    Apr 29, 2026
    163neilh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Asakusa Sensouji Temple, Imperial Palace & Meiji Shrine.
    We had a fantastic…

  • Tokyo Tour by Car & Narita Drop-Off

    Tokyo Tour by Car & Narita Drop-Off

    Tokyo Tour by Car & Narita Drop-Off with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at Tokyo International Cruise Terminal
    • 9:55 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 11:40 Isetan Shinjuku Store, lunch @ Shogatsuya Kitcho, then shopping at the same store
    • 14:20 Ueno Toshogu Shrine, Five-Story Pagoda
    • 15:15 Asakusa, from Kaminarimon to Nitenmon
    • 17:00 Disband at Narita Airport Terminal 2

    The weather was reasonably good, and the guests enjoyed the tour. At the cruise terminal, it took a little time to meet the driver, but after that the drive went smoothly. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, the guests took their time to explore many spots. They enjoyed the Japanese garden. Isetan was one of their destinations, with the aim of having a Japanese lunch and buying chopsticks as souvenirs. At an upscale Japanese restaurant, they enjoyed their meal while I provided various explanations. They seemed very satisfied. As time was getting tight, we quickly toured Ueno and Asakusa, and the tour ended at Narita Airport. Both the driver and the guide received tips.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Tour by Car & Narita Drop-Off with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Koba

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Hotel Rings Kyoto & Gion by walking

    Kyoto in One Day: Hotel Rings Kyoto & Gion by walking

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel Rings Kyoto
    • 10:40 Fushimiinari by walking Keihan train
    • 12:10 Kiyomizudera by taxi
    • Lunch （Kyoto Katsu Warajiya）
    • Sannenzaka by walking
    • 14:40 Yasaka-no-to by walking
    • Yasakakosindo by walking
    • 15:30 Gion by walking
    • Kenninji by walking
    • Hanamikoji by walking
    • Tatsumi Bridge by walking
    • 16:00 End of the tour

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. Some of the guests took many photos for social media throughout the day. Since it was just after the Golden Week holidays, everywhere was less crowded than expected, and we were able to move around smoothly. I took them to Asahido, a Kiyomizu-yaki pottery shop, where the guests were delighted and purchased items such as a matcha tea bowl with a cherry blossom motif. At Nishio they bought nama yatsuhashi, and at Ochanokosaisai they bought furikake seasoning. For lunch, instead of udon or soba, all of them chose a hearty katsu curry. Since shopping and photography took up quite a bit of time, we skipped the final planned destination of Ginkaku-ji and went to Kennin-ji instead. There they took a variety of photos for social media.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSanjo (Kyoto)～Fushimiinari240JPY
    Total240JPY

    Tour Report by Kazz

    I’m Ryoichi Kazuma and my nickname is “Kazz”. I live in Kyotanabe city next to Kyoto city. I want guests to enjoy Kyoto by seeing and experiencing not only from outside but also from inside. I offer various information from daily matters to traditional cultures. Most destinations in Kyoto are located on the eastern side or the western side. As I want to guide guests to as many destinations as possible, I make an efficient itinerary and recommend a taxi use to save time. Additionally, I take pictures at various spots and finally share the link to my storage. By doing so, guests can download their favorite pictures from my storage. Please enjoy Kyoto night and day!

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    Jul 14, 2026
    T6871WWricharde
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kazz gave a great one on one 8 hour custom tour…

    Jun 5, 2026
    mateoe216
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Would book again
    The tour with Kazuma-san was absolutely great. As someone…

    May 27, 2026
    Leah_D
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely recommend!
    I definitely recommend seeing some of the sights with a…

    May 26, 2026
    sheilacL3330KS
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very enthusiastic and knowledgable guide. Much appreciated
    Kazz was an excellent guide…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: @ Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine & @ Dotonbori

    Osaka in Half a Day: @ Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine & @ Dotonbori

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet @ Mimaru saka Namba Station
    • 09:45 @ Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
    • 11:00 @ Kuromon Market
    • 11:45 @ Dotonbori
    • 12:15 Disband @ Dotonbori

    What Is a Private Osaka Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Sumiyoshi Taisha and Kuromon Market The guests were a group from Asia, and we were able to move around smoothly. Some of the guests shared an interest in motorcycles with the guide, and we had a lively time showing each other photos of our bikes. At each spot, the guests listened attentively to the guide's explanations and asked many questions. At Sumiyoshi Taisha, they showed great interest in the guide's explanations about Shinto and listened carefully. There they also picked up the popular "Godairiki" pebbles at Sumiyoshi Taisha. At Kuromon Market, they sampled roasted chestnuts, black bean tea, pickles, and fruit. In turn, I was able to hear interesting stories and background about their home region, which I found very meaningful and engaging. After finishing the sightseeing at each spot ahead of schedule, the guests expressed a wish to have lunch on their own, so we parted ways with about 45 minutes to spare. I had heard in advance a request to recommend restaurants that serve suitable meals, and I introduced two or three appropriate establishments in Dotonbori. I presented a handmade drawstring pouch made by the guide's sister, which was very well received. Once again, the guests were truly pleasant and likable, and one of the guests kindly offered the guide a seat on the train, showing what a considerate group they were.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNamba (Nankai Line)～Sumiyoshi Taisha240JPY
    Section 2TrainSumiyoshi Taisha～Namba (Nankai Line)240JPY
    Total480JPY

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

    This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
    I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
    real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
    if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

    Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
    that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
    and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
    foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
    Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
    explanation for these three foods.

    1) Tako-yaki
    Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
    octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
    2) Okonomi-yaki
    This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
    Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
    3) Kushi-katsu
    Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
    ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

    Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
    that you like them very much.

    I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
    and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
    great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

    Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
    Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
    Yama

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    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
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    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Diane_B
    Viator review: Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Yama was amazing!!
    Our tour guide…

    Jul 4, 2026
    Navigator661725
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful time!
    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Togetsukyo Bridge & Kinkakuji Temple

    Kyoto in One Day: Togetsukyo Bridge & Kinkakuji Temple

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at Hotel Resol Kyoto Shijo Muromachi
    • 9:20 Togetsukyo Bridge
    • 9:30 Tenryuji Temple Garden
    • 9:50 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 10:50 Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple
    • 11:40 Gioji Temple
    • 12:40 Lunch at Arashiyama Seishuan
    • 14:10 Kinkakuji Temple
    • 15:30 Disband at Subway Shijo Station

    What's a Private Day Tour of Kyoto's Arashiyama and Kinkaku-ji Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today I guided a group visiting from Oceania. As nature lovers, the guests had traveled from Tokyo to Hakone and the Nakasendo, enjoying the beauty of the natural scenery and townscapes along the way. Following that theme, today they enjoyed the natural surroundings of Arashiyama and Sagano. As it was just after a holiday period, the area, including the bamboo grove, was not very crowded, which was very fortunate. The moss and fresh greenery at Gio-ji Temple were beautiful, and the guests were delighted. They enjoyed lunch near the Togetsukyo Bridge, and afterward we headed to Kinkaku-ji by the Randen tram. This spot was also surprisingly uncrowded, so they were able to fully enjoy it. I believe the guests had a wonderful time.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKarasuma～Arashiyama (Hankyu Line)240JPY
    Section 2TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)～Kitano-Hakubaicho250JPY
    Section 3BusKitano-Hakubaicho / Kyoto City Bus～Kinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4BusKinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus～Kitaoji Bus Terminal (Subway Kitaoji Station) / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 5SubwayKitaoji～Shijo (Kyoto City)260JPY
    Total1,210JPY

    Tour Report by Kaeko

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

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

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

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

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