Category: Uncategorized

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • Royal Park Hotell in Tokyo－Suitengumae Station－Shinjuku－Hakone-Yumoto－The Hakone Open-Air Museum－Gora－Hakone-Yumoto－Shinjuku－Suitengumae

    What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour Like from Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests had joined a Mount Fuji bus tour the day before, visiting Owakudani and riding the pirate ship, so they asked to see different places, and I included the Hakone Open-Air Museum. The guests were deeply impressed, took many photos, and enjoyed the foot bath. We had planned to have lunch at a famous restaurant in Gora, but there was a 40-minute wait, so we gave up on it and went to a regular dining spot instead. Afterward, the guests said they wanted to return to their hotel early to prepare for their departure the next day, so although I had planned shopping in Hakone-Yumoto and a day-trip onsen, we skipped those and took an earlier Romancecar. We arrived at Shinjuku at 17:27 and parted ways at 18:00. It was hot, but there was no rain, and the guests were interested in the switchback of the mountain railway. They were very friendly people who even gave up their seats to other passengers.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Hakone-Yumoto5,000JPY
    Total5,000JPY

    Tour Report by Maru

    Hello,Mr.A,
    Thank you for choosing our tour. I would like you to enjoy your tour as much as possible.
    If you have any ideas to see or to eat in your mind, please tell me.
    If not, I will suggest traditional Japanese culture like Meiji-shrine, Tokyo Tower, Asakusa and beautiful traditional Japanese gardens like Rikugien and Hakone. If you want to try to eat typical Japanese food, I will introduce the Japanese restaurants. I woulld like to make an itinerary, including your request.
    Please enjoy Japanese traditional and leading-edge culture or beautiful nature
    I’m looking forward to seeing you.
    Best regards, Yoriko Ishibashi

    Request Booking

    Apr 5, 2026
    887maisyw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Japanese Garden Lover’s Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Good overview of Tokyo gardens
    Great experience. On our first…

    Apr 3, 2026
    Karen_P
    Viator review: Tokyo Japanese Garden Lover’s Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Gardens are everywhere in Tokyo.
    You will see a variety…

    Mar 28, 2025
    AColoradian
    Great Day in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We are all active so we chose the…

  • Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour

    Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour

    Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:00 Meet @ In front of Himeji Station Central Ticket Gate
    • 2. 10:00 @ Mount Shosha Engyoji Temple (Maniden, Daikodo, Jogyodo, Jikido)
    • 3. 12:20 Lunch @ Kassuiken
    • 4. 13:00 @ Kokoen Garden
    • 5. 13:40 @ Himeji Castle
    • 6. 15:50 Disband @ Himeji Station

    What's a Private Day Tour of Himeji Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guest was a visitor from North America. The guest had visited Japan several times before and hopes to live in Japan in the future. After meeting at Himeji Station, we visited Engyoji Temple on Mount Shosha, Kokoen Garden, and Himeji Castle, stopping along the way at the Castle View point (for an overview of Himeji Castle) and the Shinki Bus Center (to purchase discounted round-trip tickets for the bus and ropeway). It was an extremely hot day, and frequent hydration was essential. However, the guest was very positive, and even in the heat we were able to enjoy the tour. On the return trip from Himeji Station toward Osaka, we sat in adjacent seats for part of the way, and overall it was a smooth tour with no particular problems.

    Click here for more details: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Bus[Shinki Bus Himeji Station Front] Station～[Shinki Bus Shosha] Station310JPY
    Section 2Bus[Engyoji Microbus Round Trip (Shinnojo Ropeway Sanjo Station～Maniden Base)]500JPY
    Section 3Bus[Shinki Bus Shosha] Station～[Shinki Bus Kokoen Front] Station310JPY
    Total1,120JPY

    Tour Report by Norio

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

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

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

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

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

    Request Booking

    Sep 29, 2026
    X
    X1794ZGstevew
    Kobe 4hr guided tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Norio pickup us up ontime &…

    Sep 17, 2026
    jacquelinecI8863UY
    No rush beautiful walking tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a wonderful time. Norio…

    Sep 15, 2026
    niy679
    Kobe day trip
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had an amazing tour with Norio. He…

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

  • Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet up @ Ritz Carlton Kyoto
    • 11:00 @ Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 12:45 @ Arashiyama Sagano Bamboo Grove
    • 13:30 Lunch @ Food court at Randen Arashiyama Station
    • 14:15 @ Adashino Nenbutsu-ji
    • 15:15 @ Ninna-ji
    • 15:40 @ Kinkaku-ji
    • 16:30 Dismissal @ Ritz Carlton Kyoto

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Photography Tour Like in Kimono? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests joined the tour wearing rental kimono. The guests had visited Japan before, some on their second visit and some on their third. The guests were interested in photography, so Fushimi Inari Taisha, the Sagano Bamboo Grove, and Kinkaku-ji were must-see spots, and they also hoped to see other photogenic locations if time allowed. On the recommendation of the taxi driver, we visited Adashino Nenbutsu-ji. The Sagano Bamboo Grove was too crowded for the guests to take satisfying photos, but Adashino Nenbutsu-ji was quiet, and they were pleased to capture satisfying bamboo grove photos there. Since this was a tour with a vehicle provided, no reimbursement expenses were incurred.

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

    Tour Report by Yuri

    I’m Yuri Takeda, a goverment lisenced English tour guide. I’ve been working as a tour guide for about two years. I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been in Nara for about 40 years. I can guide you Kyoto, Osaka and Nara. I like visiting historical sites, eating and cooking. I also like meeting people from different backgrounds. In Japanese, we have a wonderful phrase “Ichigo Ichie”. It means we have to treasure every encounter is a once in a lifetime opportunity. This word came from the spirit of tea ceremony. I’d like to help you discover, enjoy, experience and feel Japanese culture with the heart of Japanese hospitarity, “omotenashi”.

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    Jun 6, 2026
    Jason_B
    Viator review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent, well rounded…
    Excellent, well rounded itinerary with pertinent facts and answers…

    Apr 13, 2026
    Dunka591
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Highly recommend.
    Yuri is an incredible woman! What an amazing experience, we…

    Jul 28, 2025
    C
    Cedric_S
    Incredible Kyoto Adventure with Yuri
    Viator review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide Yuri was the heartbeat…

    Jun 25, 2025
    983whitneym
    Beautiful Kyoto Guided Tour With Yuri
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    We loved…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel pick up:9:10 2 guests (American parent and child) are on a cruise at Osaka Port, and since they will come from there to Kyoto, we set the meeting point at the hotel in front of Kyoto Station.　　
    • Kyoto～Saga-Arashiyama　After 9:30　By JR
    • Arashiyama sightseeing　9:40～12:10
    • (Bamboo Grove Path, Nonomiya Shrine, Okochi Sanso Villa, Togetsukyo Bridge, Kimono Forest, etc.)
    • Saga-Arashiyama～Kyoto　12:10-12:35
    • Return to Osaka Port by TAXI, put them on the TAXI at 12:45 (Since the guests' ship departure at 14:15 must be strictly observed, we finished early considering traffic congestion, etc.)

    Title: What Is a Private Arashiyama Tour in Kyoto for Cruise Passengers Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests came from North America. The group arrived by cruise ship, and this tour was joined by some of the guests. They had requested to visit a bamboo grove, so we visited it as planned. It was a hot day, but the bamboo grove was pleasantly cool. We had planned to head to Gion if there was time before the ship's departure, but since it seemed a little risky (and very hot), we refrained and instead spent more time enjoying Arashiyama. The guests were very pleasant, and it was enjoyable to spend time with them. Afterward, I received a message that they had arrived back at the cruise ship in time, which was a relief.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto Station～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 2TrainSaga-Arashiyama～Kyoto240JPY
    Total480JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

    Hi, every one. How have you been? I am JGA tour guide Kazu. It is my great pleasure that I can introduce myself here. I am already more than 70 years old, but I believe I am still young both mentally and physically. I like walking with my customers very much. I am from Tokyo, but now

    I live in Kyoto traditional city and an old capital of Japan. I had worked at electric manufacturing company for more than 40 years. While I was working at that company, fortunately I had a lot of chances to visit many foreign countries.

    I lived in Singapore, Malaysia, Poland and Mexico. Also I visited America, Britain, and other countries. Basically I used English to proceed my job there, however I always tried to speak local languages as much as possible. Through staying other countries, I found that there were great differences of the culture or the way of thinking between those countries and Japan. I though I had a valuable experience. After I retired from the company 5 years ago, I began to work as a tour guide although I got the National English tour guide license 7 years ago. Besides English I speak Spanish but I don’t have Spanish tour guide license yet. I belong to the comany JGA and worked around 10 days a month. So far I accompanied with mu customers more than 100 groups. All of my tour was good and lucky as I was always favored with gentle and kind customers.

    My hobby is playing the guitar, dancing and learning foreign languages. I sometimes join the concert by playing the guitar, and it is fun for me. Though I like dancing, I can not dance well. I only enjoy dancing here in Japan.

    About the tour in Japan, I usually take my tourists to the famous spots in Kyoto like Kinkakuji, Kiyomizu dera, Fushimi inari, Gion area,Nishiki market and Arashiyama area. In Arashiyama area we often visit Bamboo forest,Nonomiya shrine,Togetsukyou bridge and Kimono forest. I will cope with my customers demands as much as possible so that I try to visit any places up to your requests.

    I welcome a lot for your coming to Japan. and if possible I would like to help you to visit various kind of spots in Japan especially in Kyoto. JGA is very flexible company so that I have a confidence that you will be satisfied with our attitude and hospitality. I am glad that many of my customers told that it was so nice to travel around Japan. We will and I will expect you come down to Japan any time and we are ready to help your memorable trip in Japan. I can not wait!

    Request Booking

    Sep 26, 2025
    kaylah199
    Amazing tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kazu was extraordinary! He planned a wonderful day for…

    Jul 30, 2024
    Venture826497
    Great time in Kyoto!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My daughter and I had an amazing time…

    Jul 8, 2024
    233vickies
    6 hour Kyoto tour with Kazu
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Government-Licensed Guide and Vehicle (Max 7 persons)
    We had…

    Jun 21, 2024
    Hoc_N
    A fascinating experience in Kyoto we won’t forget
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The most memorable parts…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Sanjusangendo

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Sanjusangendo

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet @ Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto
    • 10:10-10:45 @ Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 11:30-12:00 @ Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 12:05-12:35 Lunch @ RAMEN Arashiyama Chikurin-tei
    • 13:30-14:00 @ Nijo Castle
    • 14:45-15:15 @ Sanjusangendo
    • 15:35 Dismissal @ Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Kyoto Family Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Since the local agent had informed us that the guests wished to decide the destinations on the day of the tour, we finalized the itinerary after meeting them. Everyone had their own IC card, so entering and exiting the stations went smoothly. One of the guests mentioned that the fox was their favorite animal, so they were delighted when I explained that the fox is the divine messenger at Fushimi Inari. The guests said they did not eat pork or shellfish. After strolling through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, we were drawn in by a "Vegan Ramen" sign and had lunch at a ramen restaurant near the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Between the curt attitude of the staff, a forgotten spoon, and the food being underwhelming, the guests left quite a lot uneaten. Because it was a Tuesday, the Ninomaru Palace at Nijo Castle was closed, so we were only able to walk through the Ninomaru Garden and the former keep site. After exploring Sanjusangendo, I saw the guests back to their Hotel, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKiyomizu-Gojo Station～Fushimi-Inari Station220JPY
    Section 2TrainInari Station～Saga-Arashiyama Station240JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama Station～Randen-Tenjingawa Station250JPY
    Section 4SubwayUzumasa-Tenjingawa Station～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 5SubwayNijojo-mae Station～Sanjo-Keihan Station220JPY
    Section 6TrainSanjo Station～Shichijo Station170JPY
    Section 7TrainShichijo～Kiyomizu-Gojo Station170JPY
    Total1,490JPY

    Tour Report by Kaz

    Hi, thank you very much for choosing the JGA tour!

    My name is Kazuhiro Yoshida, please call me “Kaz”.

    I am an English-speaking National Licensed Tour Guide in Japan, and have been guiding mainly in Kyoto and other Kansai areas since April 2023. I have guided over 1,000 tours in total so far, and I am on my way to becoming one of the best English-speaking tour guides in Japan.

    I have a great passion to show people from all over the world, the deep histories and cultures of Japan, the country I truly love.
    I am focused to take you out on a tour that will become one of the best highlights of your entire trip.

    I am glad to have an opportunity to be your guide, and I hope that we can explore many hidden gems of Japan together!

    Request Booking

    May 19, 2026
    498stephenq
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    An enjoyable visit
    Really enjoyed our visit with Kaz. Friendly, informative, and…

    Apr 11, 2026
    V5131MFjodieh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kyoto morning tour with Kaz
    Kaz (Kazuhiro) guided my family in historic…

    Oct 14, 2025
    Scenic61154406959
    Great Historical Perspective
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoshida was excellent, he had a great knowledge of…

    Sep 29, 2025
    Jea L
    Excellent Tour of Kyoto with Kaz
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kaz was an excellent tour…

  • Tokyo: Toyosu Market & Tsukiji Market

    Tokyo: Toyosu Market & Tsukiji Market

    Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 5:00　Meet at Hilton Tokyo
    • 5:30 Toyosu Market
    • 7:00 Tsukiji Market
    • 8:00 Tsukijishijo Station　Dismissal

    What Is a Private Tsukiji Market Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a family visiting from Europe. The day before, they had watched a football match between Vissel Kobe and a European club, as they are enthusiastic supporters of a team from their home region. They were very fond of fish and watched the auction with great interest. It was a very friendly group, and the younger members were well-behaved and asked thoughtful, relevant questions, so I was able to guide them in a warm and cheerful atmosphere. After the tour, they planned to return to their hotel and then head to Hakone. They thanked me, saying it was a very well-organized tour, and I saw them off at Tsukiji Market Station, bringing the tour to a close.

    Click here for more details: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusToyosu Market Management Building～Tsukiji Market220JPY
    Total220JPY

    Tour Report by Kris

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    See you in Japan!

    Kris

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Ginkaku-ji Temple & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Ginkaku-ji Temple & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Toyoko Inn Kyoto Shijo-Karasuma meeting point
    • 9:30 Ginkaku-ji Temple
    • 11:15 Hanamikoji Street ~ Yasui Konpiragu Shrine
    • 11:50 Yasaka Pagoda ~ Yasaka Koshindo Temple ~ Sannenzaka
    • 12:20 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 13:20 Disband around the Nio Gate of Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour of Ginkakuji and Kiyomizu-dera Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who requested a guided tour of Ginkakuji and Kiyomizu-dera. On this day the sky was overcast, and there were comparatively few people around, which was very fortunate. At Ginkakuji, I explained the historical background in detail, and the guests said it was easy to understand. We took the bus to Gion, and from there we walked along Hanamikoji, a street I often visit, on our way to Yasui Konpiragu Shrine, where I gave a more detailed explanation than usual. The guests also enjoyed photo spots such as the Yasaka Pagoda. They collected goshuin (temple and shrine stamps) at various places and seemed to enjoy the experience very much.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusShijo-Takakura～Ginkaku-ji-mae230JPY
    Section 2BusGinkaku-ji-michi～Hyakumanben230JPY
    Section 3BusHyakumanben～Gion230JPY
    Total690JPY

    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.

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Wakayama in One Day: Fushiogami-guchi & Kii-Tanabe

    Wakayama in One Day: Fushiogami-guchi & Kii-Tanabe

    Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage in 1 Day Hike with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00　Meet guests at Kii-Tanabe Station
    • 10:15　Bus to Hongu　
    • 11:50　Arrive at Hongu, transfer buses
    • 12:00　Bus to Fushiogami
    • 12:07　Arrive at Fushiogami-guchi
    • 12:20 　Fushiogami-oji, lunch
    • 12:50　Resume walking
    • 14:30　Arrive at Hongu Taisha, worship, to Oyunohara
    • 15:05　Bus from in front of Hongu Taisha to Kii-Tanabe
    • 17:20　Arrive at Kii-Tanabe
    • 17:35　Train arrives, see off guests

    What Is a Private Kumano Kodo Walking Tour from Kii-Tanabe Like? A Licensed Guide's Report While traveling to Kii-Tanabe, I received a message from the guest asking how to buy limited express train tickets, and after I replied, they were able to purchase them without any trouble. [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. When I was standing at Kii-Tanabe Station holding a welcome board, the guest approached me. Since the transfer time was short, we bought lunch at the station convenience store and headed straight to the bus stop. Because the bus ride was long, we spent the time talking about the places the guest had visited in Japan so far and the places they wanted to visit, as well as some of my own past guiding experiences. As there had been no time to buy breakfast before boarding the limited express train, the guest had a light meal on the bus. We arrived at Hongu on schedule, transferred to another bus line, and continued to Fushiogami. It was already quite hot when we got off the bus, but we could see the Hatenashi mountain range in the distance, and we enjoyed that view as we walked for a little while. At Fushiogami-jaya, several groups of visitors were having lunch. Because of the tight schedule, we finished our meal quickly and resumed the walk. Since most of the path went through wooded areas, we did not feel the heat much. At the lookout point, I took photos with the large torii gate in the background. After that, we arrived at Hongu Taisha, made our visit, and I took photos of the guest in front of the torii gate at Oyunohara before we quickly boarded the return bus. After the long bus ride, when we went to buy the return limited express tickets, there happened to be a train bound for Osaka in just ten minutes, so we hurried to purchase the tickets, and there I said goodbye to the guest and ended the tour. The guest seemed to have taken great interest in the Kumano Kodo and said they would like to come again next year.

    Click here for more details: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage in 1 Day Hike with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Kiyoko

    Hello, my name is Kiyoko. I have been a local English guide since 2016. I have studied the history and folklore at a local guide club and have an experience of guiding guests from various countries. I am good at Takijiri Oji-Takahara Jinja, Hosshinmon Oji-Hongu Taisha and Daimonzaka-Nachi Taisha, Seiganto-ji, Nachi Fall. Besides Kumano, I can guide Koyasan, Okunoin, Kongobu-ji, Danjo Garan, Niutsuhime Jinja and Jison-in. I have been to Koyasan 30-40 times . My aim is sharing a great time with guests while guiding. See you in Kumano or in Koyasan.

    Request Booking

    May 23, 2026
    Cecile_V
    Viator review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip with Government Licensed Guide
    A great and manageable hike with Kiyoko!
    This is…

    Apr 20, 2026
    rosesinthorns
    Tripadvisor review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip with Government Licensed Guide
    The best way to experience the Kumano Kudo in…

    Mar 26, 2026
    22luisandr_sm
    Tripadvisor review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle
    Amazing experience in Kumano kodo
    Kiyoko was amazing. We are…

    Apr 4, 2025
    robrP6297MQ
    Beautiful Tour with detailed Tour Guide!!
    Tripadvisor review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle
    We had a great…

  • Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:20 Meet at Kamakura Station. Take the Enoden to Enoshima. Stroll along the coast and visit the shrine. Take the Enoden to Hase Station. After lunch, sightseeing at Hasedera Temple and the Great Buddha of Kamakura. Return to Kamakura Station by bus.
    • Guide the guests to the entrance of Komachi-dori and disband at pm 2:00. The guests will do some shopping and then return via the Shonan train from Shinjuku, which they took in the morning.

    Title: Can You Do a Private Day Trip to Enoshima and Kamakura? A Licensed Guide's Report The tour began at Enoshima. The plan had originally been to head to Shichirigahama beach, but once Enoshima came into view, the whole group decided they wanted to go there instead, so we started at Enoshima. One of the guests, who will soon be studying Japanese at university, has some understanding of the language. In the Enoshima shopping street there is a service that lets you have your name added to a pair of chopsticks, and the guests were delighted to have a name engraved in Japanese. There was also a goldfish-scooping stand nearby, and one of the guests tried it and scooped one goldfish. During the meal, we chatted about the Japanese language. We then visited the key sights of Hase and the Great Buddha, and I introduced them to a Ghibli-related shop at the entrance of Komachi Street before we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKamakura Station～Enoshima260JPY
    Section 2TrainEnoshima～Hase260JPY
    Section 3BusHase～Kamakura200JPY
    Total720JPY

    Tour Report by Hiro

    I am Hiroki Morikawa :Hiro:, English guide living with my wife ,just a hop skip and jump from Hakone, Kamakura, Tokyo and the Mt. Fuji.
    I am a friendly grandfather of 4 grandchildren.
    I would love to help you enjoy Japan, using my 3 strong points.
    First: I am used to dealing with any kind of matters. I have experienced various situations in the 40 years of my working life.
    Second: I am good at making a friendly atmosphere between you and local people to help you enjoy Japan. I was raised in western Japan, studied in northern Japan and now live in central Japan. So I know various local cultures and dialects to communicate with a wide variety of people.
    Third: I can explain things from a technical point of view.
    For example, how the Great Buddha was constructed, because I am a master of engineering graduated from Hokkaido University.
    Please enjoy Japan with me. See you soon!!
    dummy

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    Aug 24, 2026
    Deb_K
    Viator review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Well organised tour
    Hiro is obviously an experienced guide.…

    Aug 6, 2026
    Marcus_J
    Viator review: Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing day with…
    Had an amazing day with Hiro.…

    Jun 30, 2026
    G2432BLtimothyc
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Full Day Tour with Guide and Vehicle
    6 hour tour of Hakone
    we had a great experience with…

    Jun 25, 2026
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    First time in hakone
    Niro was perfect for us. He was…

  • Aichi: Nagoya Castle & Kinjo Pier

    Aichi: Nagoya Castle & Kinjo Pier

    Nagoya / Aichi Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Kinjo Pier Meet
    • 10:20 Nagoya Castle
    • 12:00 Kinshachi Yokocho Kishimen Lunch
    • 13:15 Tokugawa Art Museum
    • 14:30 Depart from Art Museum
    • 15:15 Arrive at Kinjo Pier

    Title: What's a Private Cruise Shore Excursion in Nagoya Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nagoya Castle and Tokugawa Art Museum The guests were visiting from North America, and there was word that a flight problem might prevent them from boarding their cruise ship. Thinking the meeting point might change, I had used a messaging app the day before to share information about accommodation in Nagoya and other details. However, just before the day, I received word that they had managed to board the ship after all, so we met as planned at Kinjo Pier. The day was an extreme heat of 38 degrees, so aside from Nagoya Castle I suggested indoor facilities, and we decided on the Tokugawa Art Museum. The guests toured the Honmaru Palace with great interest, but because of the heat we took frequent short breaks, so the time went past noon and the Kinshachi Yokocho food street was completely full everywhere. After waiting a little, we went to the least crowded kishimen noodle shop. After that we took the Meguru sightseeing bus to the Tokugawa Art Museum. Here too we ran over on time, and while heading by taxi toward Nagoya Station, we discussed it and decided not to take the Aonami Line but to continue straight to the port by taxi. As Kinjo Pier takes more than an hour to reach the city center, even visiting just two places (plus lunch) fills up the whole schedule. In particular, I had heard that this ship, the Diamond Princess, would leave without mercy if you did not return on time, and that the next port would be Busan, so I felt very anxious. Going forward, I would like to be much more careful about time management and scheduling.

    Click here for more details: Nagoya / Aichi Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKinjo Pier～Nagoya720JPY
    Section 2Free PassNagoya～Tokugawa Art Museum, Nagoya Castle620JPY
    Total1,340JPY

    Tour Report by Tommie

    Hi, I’m Tommie, a local guide based in Nagoya.
    After obtaining my national guide license in 2023, I have dedicated myself full-time to guiding. What I enjoy most is introducing visitors to Japan’s unique traditions, rich culture, and everyday life through meaningful local experiences.
    Nagoya may not be as famous as Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka, but that’s exactly what makes it special. As one of Japan’s largest cities, it offers a chance to experience authentic Japanese life without the crowds and tourist traps.
    I fell in love with Nagoya and its unique blend of history, culture, local food, and everyday life. Having lived abroad for many years, I understand what international travelers are looking for and enjoy helping them discover a side of Japan that many visitors miss.
    I look forward to sharing my favorite places and experiences with you!

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    Jun 17, 2025
    Gina_M
    Gorgeous Castle, shopping and local food.
    Viator review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Tommy was a fantastic…

    Oct 28, 2024
    avigayelk
    Best of Nagoya and Best Guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Tommy was the greatest…

    Jun 23, 2024
    25aditib
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    Tripadvisor review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Trail Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide
    We are so glad…