Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Kyoto Instagram Spots Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet @ Kyoto Station West Ticket Gate
    • 9:52 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 11:50 Bamboo Grove Path ~ Togetsukyo Bridge
    • 13:15 Lunch @ Arashiyama Station Front
    • 14:00 Gion Hanamikoji ~ Gion Shinbashi
    • 15:15 Dismiss @ JR Kyoto Station

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour from Osaka Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They were staying in Osaka, and both the meeting point and the drop-off were at JR Kyoto Station. In the intense summer heat, all of the requested destinations were outdoors, so we moved around while taking frequent breaks, though the guests seemed a little tired. Even so, they took many photos and videos and appeared very satisfied, and at the end they told me it was "perfect!"

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Instagram Spots Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainInari～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama～Randen-Tenjingawa250JPY
    Section 4SubwayUzumasa-Tenjingawa～Sanjo-Keihan260JPY
    Section 5BusGion～Shijo-Karasuma230JPY
    Section 6SubwayShijo～Kyoto220JPY
    Total1,350JPY

    Tour Report by Hiro

    Thanks for joining our tour. I’m Hiro Nakagawa, assigned to be your guide for this tour. I was eligible as a National Licensed Tour Guide in 2017. I have guided many tourists from overseas since then. Japan is a beautiful country with full of various attractions. Please enjoy your time in this country to the fullest. I will help you with that. What are you interested in this country? I will introduce this country’s long history, traditional culture, beautiful seasonal highlights, and delicious food to you. Please let me know your preferences. If it’s other than which I mentioned, I’m preparing it for you as much as possible. Let’s enjoy the trip together!

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    Jul 13, 2025
    H2enjoy
    Wonderful Day Trip to Mt. Koya from the Osaka Cruise Terminal
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure)…

    Jun 20, 2025
    zoranm709
    Kyoto great tour experience.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyed the sites we were taken. Hiro was…

    Jun 18, 2025
    Adventurer310309
    Cool surprises on our Osaka and Kyoto tours with Hiro.
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife…

    May 26, 2025
    SK G
    Excellent tour
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mr. Hiro provided an excellent experience. Personable…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet at hotel
    • 2. 10:00 Fushimi Inari Taisha tour
    • 3. 11:00 Kiyomizu-dera tour
    • 4. 12:00 Lunch @ Nishio Yatsuhashi no Sato
    • 5. 13:30 Kinkaku-ji tour
    • 6. 14:30 Bamboo grove tour
    • 7. 15:00 Togetsukyo Bridge tour
    • 8. 15:15 Dismissal @ Arashiyama

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like for a Group Visiting Japan? A Licensed Guide's Report I met the group visiting from North America at their Hotel and first guided them to Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine and Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Since one member of the group was moving in a buggy and a heat-illness alert had been issued, unfortunately we were unable to visit Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka slopes on this day. As some of the guests began to tire, I guided them to a quiet and relaxing restaurant in the city for lunch. After they had lunch a little earlier than usual, we moved on to the next destination, Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion). One of the guests had read Yukio Mishima's "The Temple of the Golden Pavilion" and had strongly wished to visit this place, so I guided them there at a leisurely pace. From Kinkaku-ji we moved to the bamboo grove in Arashiyama, and just as the group was enjoying the shaded bamboo tunnel, our scheduled guiding time came to an end. We parted from the taxi in front of the train station and continued on foot toward Togetsukyo Bridge and the Hozu River area. There, the group wished to continue exploring on their own for a while longer, so we said our goodbyes at that point.

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

    Tour Report by Toshi

    After a rather long teaching experience at Japanese college, I converted my career about 6 years ago into working as a tour guide for the tourists visiting Japan.
    As my career overseas, I’ve been in the UN and the Japanese Embassy, all in the USA, totaling more than 6 years.
    And then I had made a big change in my career from a diplomat to an academic researcher. For that career to achieve, I studied abroad and won a doctorate degree in linguistics from Indiana University and landed a teaching position at college in Japan.
    With all these interesting and exciting experiences I’ve made myself ready to enrich your tour and make it both enjoyable and worthwhile.

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    Apr 26, 2026
    39ferdinandr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Exceptional and entertaining
    Great tour better the tour guide Toshi.

    Apr 9, 2026
    X1429XKclaudiam
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sehr zu empfehlen
    Wir haben als Familie diese 6-stundige Tour durch Kyoto…

    Jun 28, 2025
    WilliamAlfonso_R
    Toshi is a very eloquent, knowledgeable, and diligent tour guide.
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Toshi was…

    May 30, 2025
    Z
    ZevP5
    Best Tour Guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the best guide!! He was so…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Rinnoji Sanbutsudo Hall & Super Lion d'Or

    Tochigi in One Day: Rinnoji Sanbutsudo Hall & Super Lion d’Or

    Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:55 meet@ Fairfield by Marriott　Explain today's schedule
    • 10:05 Hotel (taxi)
    • 10:25　Rinnoji Shoyoen Garden & Treasure Hall
    • 11:00　Rinnoji Sanbutsudo Hall
    • 12:00　Toshogu Shrine
    • 13:50　Lunch＠Maruhide Restaurant
    • 15:00　Tsuruha Drugstore
    • 15:30　Super Lion d'Or
    • 16:00　Disband＠Fairfield by Mariott

    Title: What Is a Private Nikko Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Rinnoji, Toshogu, and Local Experiences The guests were visitors from Europe. They had researched Japanese culture and history very thoroughly in advance and asked a great many questions. Because of this, each stop took nearly twice as long as usual, so although we visited fewer places, they seemed very satisfied and enjoyed everything in depth, which was rewarding. Specifically, at Shoyoen Garden they enjoyed feeding the koi and stopped at various plants, looking at them with great interest. At Sanbutsudo Hall, they were fascinated by the many gomagi prayer sticks that people had dedicated, and they wanted to pay and write a wish themselves. Showing the stroke order of each Japanese character one by one, they wrote "good health" on a gomagi stick and dedicated it. They also listened intently to the explanation of the three Buddhist statues. At Toshogu Shrine, they were impressed by the structure of the five-story pagoda and the stories of the imaginative elephants and the three wise monkeys, exclaiming "I didn't know that!" They were moved by the overall grandeur and beauty of the buildings and took many photographs. Since they seemed eager to experience the things Japanese people do, I taught them how to purify their hands before worship and how to pray at a shrine, and they took part enthusiastically. For meals, since the guests followed a specific diet, I took them to a restaurant that could accommodate their needs flexibly. They enjoyed a yuba curry and a yuba rice bowl lunch prepared to suit their requirements. Because the air conditioning at their accommodation had made their throat sore, and because they wanted to buy supplements for swollen legs, I took them to a drugstore. They also mentioned wanting ginger tea to warm the body and help prevent colds, but since the item they wanted was not available, we decided to buy fresh ginger instead, and I guided them to a supermarket near the station. The plan had been to visit the Tamozawa Imperial Villa at the end, but since they preferred to go and buy supplements and throat lozenges, we decided not to overdo it and skipped the villa. Regarding photos, only images that can be shared publicly are being sent.

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

    Tour Report by Yumi

    Hello! My name is Yumi. The Nikko area, Nasu area, in Tochigi Prefecture, and Aizu and Shirakawa area in Fukushima prefecture, where I will be guiding you, are not only surrounded by beautiful nature in all four seasons but are also full of historical attractions. Nikko, in particular, is a great place to learn about the culture and history that has shaped Japan to this day. In order for you to truly enjoy your day, I am flexible to your wishes and will prepare your day to be a great day. Because I am a local guide, you will surely see some sights that are not in the guidebooks. Is local food one of your favorite parts of your trip? I am also a sushi-making instructor for foreigners, so food is one of my specialties. I am also a certified sake navigator. Why don’t you come and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with me?

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    Aug 24, 2026
    arzed
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A perfect day!
    My family and I had an…

    Jul 1, 2026
    laine164
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day!
    We had a wonderful time exploring Nikko.
    Our friendly…

    Apr 7, 2026
    V2097LInickd
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Guide Yumi Highlights Nikko on walking tour
    Our 16,000 step tour…

    Apr 4, 2026
    O4367MVkarenv
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fantastic day in Nikko
    We had a fantastic day with Yumi. She…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa Senso-ji Temple & Kamiyacho Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa Senso-ji Temple & Kamiyacho Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:30 Meeting place: Hotel
    • 11:40 Asakusa Senso-ji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • 12:40 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:00 Arrive Suehirocho
    • Akihabara Akihabara Electric Town
    • 14:00 Depart Akihabara Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 14:30 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Break: Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • Takeshita Street
    • Cat Street
    • 16:00 Depart Harajuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 16:10 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Shibuya Center-gai
    • Break: Starbucks
    • 17:30 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • Ebisu Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 18:00 Kamiyacho Station
    • 18:00 Dismissal: Kamiyacho Station

    Title: What Is a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like for a Family? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Akihabara, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting from North America, all visiting Japan for the first time. Before arriving, the group had visited relatives in Asia and stopped in another part of Asia, arriving at Narita Airport the previous night and taking the Skyliner to their hotel. They planned to stay in Tokyo for several days before returning home. They mentioned they were going to Disneyland the following day. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led this private full-day tour of Tokyo for the group. Since the group included a young child, there was a request to use elevators whenever possible. The tour took place during extreme summer heat, so we took several rest breaks along the way. Walking from the hotel toward Asakusa Station, I guided the group through Asakusa, which was as crowded as always. I explained in detail the history of Sensoji Temple and the history of Edo and Tokyo. The group asked questions such as "Do all Japanese people believe in Buddhism?" and "Are there people who follow religions other than Buddhism?" They purchased omamori (protective charms) as souvenirs. We then moved to Akihabara and strolled through the electronics district. With the condition of "only one item each," the group purchased toys, Pokemon cards, and similar items. When thunder began to rumble, we hurried into the subway station and traveled from Akihabara Station to Meijijingumae Station. At Meiji Shrine, the thunder had stopped and we were not caught in the rain, so we enjoyed a leisurely walk. The group asked questions such as "What are the torii gates for?", "How does Buddhism differ from Shinto?", and "Why are the sake barrels displayed?" There were also questions about the Japanese imperial family, "What was the Meiji Restoration?", and "Why did the Meiji Restoration happen?" After taking a break and having a light meal at Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu, we strolled along Takeshita Street and Cat Street. We then moved to Shibuya, crossed the Scramble Crossing, and took commemorative photos in front of the Hachiko statue. The group asked, "Is it always this crowded?" and "Why do so many people gather here?" After exploring Center Gai, we took another break at a coffee shop. The group commented that "Japanese people are all kind and considerate," "They are polite and well-mannered," "The streets are clean with no litter," "The subway is quiet and no one is noisy," and "The public restrooms are clean and pleasant." The group then said they wanted to visit Tokyo Tower next and asked to be taken to the nearest station, so I saw them off at Kamiyacho Station 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 1SubwayAsakusa Station～Suehirocho Station178JPY
    Section 2SubwayAkihabara Station～Meiji-jingumae Station209JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku Station～Shibuya Station146JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya Station～Ebisu Station146JPY
    Section 5SubwayEbisu Station～Kamiyacho Station178JPY
    Total857JPY

    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

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel – 10:00 Meiji Shrine – 11:00 Imperial Palace East Gardens – 12:05 Lunch – 12:45 Tsukiji Outer Market – 13:15 Fukagawa Fudodo – 13:45 Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine – 14:30 Asakusa Sensoji Temple – 15:10 Disband at Sensoji Temple grounds

    What Is a Private Tokyo Family Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine and Sushi The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. One of them had visited Japan several times for travel, but for the rest it was their first visit to Japan. At the hotel, I gave an overview of Japan and Tokyo along with some historical background. During a walk through Meiji Shrine, which still had the quiet atmosphere of the morning, I explained the Japanese view of religion and the annual events associated with shrines and Buddhist temples. We happened to encounter a "hatsumairi" (first shrine visit), allowing the guests to experience Japanese culture firsthand. However, since food culture is something that cannot be fully conveyed by explanation alone, we had lunch at a long-established sushi restaurant, where the guests enjoyed authentic sushi.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGinza～Meiji-jingumae178JPY
    Section 2SubwayYoyogi～Otemachi286JPY
    Section 3SubwayOtemachi～Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji Market～Monzen-nakacho178JPY
    Section 5SubwayMonzen-nakacho～Asakusa209JPY
    Total1,029JPY

    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!

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet at Hotel Levant Tokyo
    • 2. 10:30 Asakusa
    • 3. 11:45 Yanaka
    • 4. 12:15 Nezu Shrine
    • 5. 12:45 Lunch (Nezu Matsuyoshi)
    • 6. 14:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 7. 14:45 Harajuku
    • 8. 16:00 Disband at Hotel Levant Tokyo

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Yanaka, and Harajuku The guests were a group visiting from Europe. They had arrived in Japan the previous day and planned to stay for about two weeks, traveling to Hakone, Hiroshima, Osaka, and Kyoto after Tokyo. I guided the group through Asakusa, Yanaka, Nezu Shrine, Meiji Shrine, and Harajuku (Takeshita Street). Because the group was dealing with jet lag during an intense heat wave, I paid close attention to preventing heatstroke throughout the tour. At each sightseeing spot, I made sure to give explanations in the shade whenever possible. The guests were aware that Tokyo would be hot and had brought hats and neck coolers, and they stayed hydrated throughout, so we were able to complete the full itinerary without any problems. At first I was a little concerned about whether some of the guests would take an interest in traditional sites, but the whole group listened attentively to my explanations together. At Takeshita Street, our final stop, they purchased character goods at a shop. I saw the guests off at their hotel, and we parted ways there.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassKinshicho～Oshiage600JPY
    Section 2SubwayOshiage～Asakusa178JPY
    Section 3Free PassAsakusa～Ueno0JPY
    Section 4TrainUeno～Nippori146JPY
    Section 5Free PassNezu～Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 6Free PassMeiji-jingumae～Kinshicho0JPY
    Total924JPY

    Tour Report by Haru

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Kumamoto in One Day: Shimada Museum of Art & Suizenji Jojuen Garden

    Kumamoto in One Day: Shimada Museum of Art & Suizenji Jojuen Garden

    Kumamoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00　 Hotel
    • 11:30　Unganzenji Temple, Reiganto Cave
    • 12:20　Shimada Museum of Art
    • 13:00　Josaien
    • 13:30　Kumamoto Castle
    • 15:45　Yusuitei
    • 14:00　Suizenji Jojuen Garden　
    • 17:15　Dissolve/Disperse@Shimotori Arcade

    A Private Kumamoto Tour Focused on Miyamoto Musashi Sites: A Licensed Guide's Report One of the guests had previously read "The Book of Five Rings," so I included Reigando Cave and the Shimada Museum of Art, both connected to Miyamoto Musashi, in the itinerary. Since these two locations are in inconvenient areas, I chartered a taxi for two hours. As one of the guests had also practiced martial arts, they showed interest in the exhibits on bushido at Kumamoto Castle and Suizenji. The group also observed the structure of buildings and even a multi-level parking garage with great curiosity, things that people usually just pass by. One of the guests had experience appraising Kumamoto oysters, and researching Kumamoto oysters in advance revealed a fascinating background. I also inquired with the prefecture's fisheries division, but received a reply that they were not being served during this season. It was a shame, but thanks to the guests, I was able to learn one more piece of information that I can share with future clients.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainIn front of Kumamoto City Hall～In front of Suizenji Jojuen Garden180JPY
    Section 2TrainIn front of Suizenji Jojuen Garden～Torichosuji180JPY
    Total360JPY

    Tour Report by Mieko

    In 2016, I obtained the National Guide Certification and have been guiding mainly tours in Kumamoto City, but also in neighboring areas such as Aso, Takachiho, and Unzen. I have learned a lot from guiding and have had the invaluable experience of interacting with guests from many different countries. I love being a guide and also I think guiding job is physically wonderful because it is based on walking. I am interested in history, especially samurai culture. In Kumamoto, you can see the footprints of the castle lords, the Kato and the Hosokawa families. The Kato family is famous as strong warlords, while the Hosokawa family is famous as intellectuals who developed the culture of the samurai. Also, Kumamoto is one of the few cities in the world where all water is supplied by groundwater. Please enjoy Kumamoto’s history, culture, and water.

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    Mar 27, 2025
    AnaBelenGP11
    Wonderful MEIKO!
    Tripadvisor review: Kumamoto Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We have the best time with MIEKO at Kumamoto. She…

    Mar 5, 2025
    lsmilburn2019
    Such a knowledgeable guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kumamoto Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mieko was an incredible guide. I feel very…

    Nov 25, 2024
    L
    Lori_T
    Mieko is Ichiban! The best guide for Kumamoto<3<3 Viator review: Kumamoto Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide Mieko was such a wonderful guide! She took our interests into consideration and showed us a special Shinto temple and let us drink from the "long life" spring. She also explained how to do a Shinto prayer and took us for a walk where the gods lived. We had lunch at the perfect place–we wanted to eat good seafood–the seafood was fresh and the service fast and friendly. The fresh grilled scallops were the best I've tasted. Also, we got to try horse sashimi which is a specialty of Fukuoka I think. It was very good. We also toured Kumamoto Castle and the surrounding areas. We ended the tour at a restaurant that served the Kumamoto Wagyu special beef–from black cows! I'd highly recommend having Mieko guide you!

    Aug 15, 2024
    Kris_F
    Kumamoto with guide Mieko is a must!
    Viator review: Kumamoto Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My family had the most…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 8:30 Meet @ Hotel (2-2-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 8:50 Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 3) 10:00 In front of the Imperial Palace Main Gate Nijubashi Bridge
    • 4) 11:00 Shibuya Crossing
    • 5) 12:00 Harajuku Takeshita Street → Omotesando Cat Street → THE MATCHA TOKYO Omotesando Store
    • 6) 14:00 Akihabara
    • 7) 14:30 Disband @ Konami Game Center in front of JR Akihabara Station

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? Meiji Shrine, Shibuya, Harajuku, and Akihabara — A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group of guests visiting from Europe on a full-day private tour of Tokyo. This was their first visit to Japan. At the hotel meeting point, we confirmed the itinerary and their transportation pass (JR Pass) before starting the tour. The guests listened very attentively from the very beginning of our visit to Meiji Shrine, which was quiet with few worshippers and felt almost like a private visit. However, given the intense heat, at the Imperial Palace we limited our visit to the Nijubashi bridge at the main gate, and I verbally recommended options such as the free tours. Traveling by train while avoiding rush hour felt heavenly. The guests mentioned they would also be visiting Kyoto and Osaka, so I showed them photos of the Namba area and Kiyomizu-dera. When I mentioned the peace memorial exhibition museum located just a few minutes on foot from their hotel in the city, they showed interest, and they were pleased that I could provide related information. A visit to Starbucks at the redeveloping Shibuya crossing was much appreciated. In Harajuku, the guests were amazed by the street food and the sheer number of shops, and I was able to guide them smoothly to a matcha cafe in Omotesando. One of the guests, a university student, did not go into the cafe, so I waited and chatted with them. On Meiji-dori in Harajuku, one of the guests went into a guitar shop and browsed happily. Our final stop was Akihabara. Even on a weekday, the Radio Kaikan was bustling. Time ran out just as one of the guests was enjoying playing games at the Konami arcade. It was a shy but consistently calm and composed group throughout.

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    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassNishishinjuku Station, Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line～Kitasando Station, Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line900JPY
    Section 2Free PassMeiji-jingumae Station, Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line～Nijubashimae Station, Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line0JPY
    Section 3Free PassSakuradamon Station, Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line～Shibuya Station, Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line0JPY
    Section 4Free PassShibuya Station, Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line～Meiji-jingumae Station, Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line0JPY
    Section 5Free PassMeiji-jingumae Station, Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line～Ogawamachi Station, Toei Shinjuku Line0JPY
    Total900JPY

    Tour Report by Tachi

    Hi! I’m a local guide in Tokyo and have been working as a licensed tour guide for almost 10 years. I love helping guests discover the “real Japan” beyond the guidebooks. I enjoy showing guests both famous sights and places that many tourists miss. My tours are based on your interests and can include not only famous sightseeing spots, but also local neighborhoods, culture, history, and everyday life in Japan. I also help guests enjoy Japanese cultural activities and make communication easier. If you’d like vegan or gluten-free meals, let me help you find suitable restaurants in Tokyo. If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, please feel free to let me know in advance. I look forward to showing you around Tokyo!

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    Sep 6, 2026
    Paullyb
    Highly professional and relaxed tour exceeding our expectations
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tachi…

    Jun 19, 2026
    Daniel_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 would do again!
    Our guide, Tachi was incredibly accommodating, friendly, and…

    May 24, 2026
    Meander63637687943
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Japanese Garden Lover’s Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour guide Tachi is the best!
    A most enjoyable and…

    May 19, 2026
    Jai_K
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    I would definitely…
    I would definitely recommend this tour. Our guide Tachi…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:20 Meet @The Chapter Kyoto 9:50@ Fushimi Inari Taisha 11:40@ Bamboo Grove Walk 12:00@ Nonomiya Shrine 12:10@ Tenryu-ji Sogenchi Garden 12:30@ Togetsukyo Bridge 13:00@ Kinkaku-ji 13:50 Lunch @Ramen Kairikiya 15:00@ Kiyomizu-dera (End of chartered taxi, drop-off) 16:20 Disband @The Chapter Kyoto

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like with a Wheelchair User? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a family group visiting Kyoto. After I proposed an itinerary and they made their selection, the group let me know that one of the guests would be using a wheelchair, so I asked the taxi driver to be accommodating. At Fushimi Inari Taisha, we used the elevator and I guided them all the way to the inner shrine. Since no one was waiting at the Omokaru-ishi stone, everyone in the group had a chance to lift it. At the bamboo grove, after taking a family photo in front of Okochi Sanso Garden, one of the guests went by taxi to the Tenryu-ji parking area while I guided the others on foot. At the parking area, the guest returned to the wheelchair, and I guided the whole group through the Sogen-chi Garden at Tenryu-ji only. At Kinkaku-ji, some of the guests walked to the parking area, while I guided the wheelchair-using guest and another guest by turning back at the entrance partway through. For lunch, the guests wanted ramen, so we had lunch at a ramen restaurant with parking that the taxi driver recommended. At Kiyomizu-dera, the taxi took us as far as the point accessible for a passenger using a wheelchair, and since our return looked likely to be after 15:30, we ended the taxi service. (I had explained the extension policy in advance.) The guests enjoyed shopping and taking photos on Sannenzaka as we walked down the slope, then returned to the Hotel using a U-bed taxi, ending the tour. They seemed very satisfied.

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

    Tour Report by Keiko

    I am Keiko Ibuki, Goverment-Licensed Guide. I passed National Guide examination and registered in 2015. I started guiding job in 2016. I mainly guide Kansai area, especially Kyoto. From 2016 to 2019, I guided visitors from overseas about 50 days. In 2023, I guided visitors from overseas about 50 days. I passed 2nd grade of Kyoto Tourism and Culture examination in 2020. I passed National Examination for Certified Travel Supervisors in 1997. I can tailor my guided tour to meet your requirements. I would like to make your visit to Japan enjoyable and memorable.

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    May 15, 2025
    Christine_M
    There are SO many choices…
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    There are SO…

    Dec 25, 2024
    Kerri_D
    World Heritage Sites in Kyoto
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Government-Licensed Guide and Vehicle (Max 7 persons)
    Well- planned, strong…

    Jul 31, 2024
    whyisthisneededthiss
    Kyoto tour
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Government-Licensed Guide and Vehicle (Max 7 persons)
    Our tour guide Keiko was great.…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:15 Meet at Kyoto Station　　10:30　Fushimi Inari　　12:20 Lunch (sushi restaurant near Nijo Station)　13:45 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove　　15:00 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 16:30 Tour ends at Kyoto Station

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like for a Family Group? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from Asia. Some members of the group had roots in South America and Europe, and they currently reside in Asia. The meeting point was set for Kyoto Station, but since they were staying at a hotel in Shin-Osaka, they came to Kyoto by JR in the morning. They had originally planned to take the "Haruka" express, but by mistake boarded a local train on a conventional line. I was a little concerned about whether we would be able to meet reliably, but when a train pulled into the platform at Kyoto Station, I caught a glimpse of a face that turned out to be one of the guests. We were able to meet successfully on the platform at Kyoto Station. I was impressed by how well some of the guests looked after the younger members of the group. Basically two of them each pushed a suitcase. They seemed to have no complaints at all, and I thought it was remarkable how naturally they handled everything. In the photo taken in Arashiyama, they are the ones on either side. During this photo, one of the younger members was taking a nap and did not join. Along the way, movement took longer than expected because some of the group needed extra time. Still, I managed to guide them to three places as planned. I saw them off at Kyoto Station, ending the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainInari～Nijo200JPY
    Section 3TrainNijo～Saga-Arashiyama200JPY
    Section 4TrainSaga-Arashiyama～Enmachi190JPY
    Section 5BusEnmachi～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 6BusKinkakuji-michi～Kitaoji Bus Terminal230JPY
    Section 7SubwayKitaoji～Kyoto260JPY
    Total1,460JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

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    Sep 28, 2026
    Miguel_E
    Amazing Service
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful time with Kazuo.…

    Sep 27, 2026
    T
    TrailBlazer47194
    Kazuo Sumi is a great guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide Kazuo Sumi…

    Sep 1, 2026
    Steve6172014
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 7, 2026
    Pascale_Q
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Very good private tour of Kyoto with Kazuo
    We had…