Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo: Asakusa & Miyakodori

    Tokyo: Asakusa & Miyakodori

    Asakusa Tour & Geisha Matcha Experience with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 12:40 Asakusa
    • 14:45 Miyakodori
    • 16:15 Tour ends in front of Asakusa Station on the Ginza Line

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour with Asakusa, a Shrine, and Geisha Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. They had also visited Japan with their group three months earlier and said they had returned because they love Japan so much. On the previous trip they had visited places like teamLab, so this time they said they wanted to explore temples and shrines. At Senso-ji Temple, they drew the "great blessing" fortune and were delighted. As it was extremely hot and humid today, they purchased some lightweight trousers at a UNIQLO store. At a traditional venue, they enjoyed talking a great deal with a geisha. Although one of the guests had difficulty walking, they were able to take part in the Konpira Fune Fune game while seated on a stool, and said it was very enjoyable. After the tour, they mentioned going to Akihabara, so I accompanied them to Asakusa Station on the Ginza Line, explained how to get to Akihabara, and the tour came to an end. At the venue there was a one-drink policy, but the staff kindly said that oolong tea or water would be free of charge for the guide, so no expenses other than transportation were incurred.

    Click here for more details: Asakusa Tour & Geisha Matcha Experience with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainRoppongi～Asakusa210JPY
    Total210JPY

    Tour Report by Kahori

    Hello. My name is Kahori who lives in Tokyo.

    I am a mother who has 7 years old boy.
    I have been a guide for 7 years.

    I would like to introduce various spots to you.
    There are so many great spots such as Asakusa, Meiji shrine, Tsukiji fish market, etc. and off-the-beaten-path spots such as Yanaka, Fukagawa, etc. in Tokyo.

    Also, I love eating and drinking so I would like to introduce many restaurants and food stands.
    In addition, there are many types of Fashion culture in Harajuku, and it makes you surprise!!

    Let’s go to these attractive spots together!!

    I am looking forward to having a great time with you (^o^)

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    Jul 23, 2026
    bennyboyoz
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    An unforgettable private tour with Kahori.
    This private Geisha and Asakusa tour was one of the…

    Jul 12, 2026
    Kwame_L
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Amazing Private tour with Kahori
    Our tour in Tokyo was…

    Jul 12, 2026
    Noe_C
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Great tour with Kahori!
    We had an amazing time on…

    Jun 17, 2026
    Shoney M
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kahori Tour
    Kahori was an excellent tour guide. We also worked…

  • Hokkaido: Shopping at souvenir shop & Gather～head to Sapporo

    Hokkaido: Shopping at souvenir shop & Gather～head to Sapporo

    Otaru & Yoichi from Sapporo by Car with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • Head from Hotel Nikko Sapporo to Yoichi Town.
    • 11:30　Yoichi Space Museum (Mamoru Mohri Memorial Hall) free area
    • 12:00　Nikka Whisky: Museum, Restaurant, Gift Shop
    • 12:50　Shopping at souvenir shop
    • 13:00　Guests have lunch at the restaurant on site
    • 14:00　Depart from same location, head to Otaru
    • 14:30　Stop at Shukutsu Observatory, view of the Sea of Japan, Otaru city, and surrounding area
    • 　　　　Guide from the vehicle window at Otaru Canal and Otaru Sakaimachi
    • 15:00　Guests wish for free time, meeting place: in front of the Venetian Glass Museum
    • 17:00　Gather～head to Sapporo
    • 18:00　Sapporo Kita 4-jo Nishi 6-chome, guests get off and part ways in front of the restaurant they reserved
    • 　　　　Driver and guide take their leave

    Family Whisky Distillery Tour in Hokkaido: What Is a Private Nikka Distillery Visit Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Weather was sunny, with temperatures around 30°C. The guests were a group visiting from North America. Before the tour, I contacted them and explained that only three facilities within the Nikka Whisky distillery grounds are open for viewing, and I proceeded with the tour after receiving their understanding. Before arriving, I gave an overview of the Nikka Whisky distillery. Although not all of the buildings were open, the guests were able to see the facilities. Inside the museum, the guests took their time viewing many photographs with English explanations, including photos of the founder, Masataka Taketsuru, and his wife Rita, as well as the founder's upbringing and his training in Glasgow. In addition to the guiding talk, I also explained the history, nature, and industries of Hokkaido.

    Click here for more details: Otaru & Yoichi from Sapporo by Car with Licensed Guide

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

    Request Booking

    Feb 7, 2025
    Stay38335184325
    A very frosty day in a very interesting little seaside town
    Tripadvisor review: Otaru 6hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our…

    Dec 27, 2024
    G
    G5102BEannied
    Sapporo, Hokaido Winter Escapade
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We had an experienced tour guide…

    Oct 30, 2024
    Clarice W
    A Day of Joy at Otaru Canal, Half-day Walking Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Otaru 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Katsuko-san…

  • Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00　Meet the customer at the hotel
    • 9:30　Stroll around the Namba area, including Yoshimoto Grand Kagetsu.
    • 10:00　Guide through Sennichimae Doguyasuji. Purchase kitchen goods, etc.
    • 11:00　Guide to Namba Yasaka Shrine. Get the goshuin stamp book inscribed.
    • 12:00　Guide to NHK, Osaka Prefectural Police Headquarters, Osaka Castle, and the main keep.
    • 12:40　Guide to the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.
    • 13:10　Guide the ticket purchase on site, then return to the hotel and disband.

    Title: What's a Private Osaka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle and Kaiyukan The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Europe, and after touring Tokyo, Hakone, and Kyoto, they came to Osaka for sightseeing. The guests had a strong interest in kitchenware and purchased several pieces of tableware and a kitchen knife. I believe it worked out well to guide them to a wholesale store for professionals that I have had a relationship with for some time. In particular, they looked at knives at several shops, and I explained the materials, right-handed options, and care methods. Since they had already visited Dotonbori and Kuromon Market, I guided them to Osaka Castle and the Kaiyukan Aquarium, and they were able to enjoy a short but very rich Osaka sightseeing experience.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinsaibashi～Namba (Subway)190JPY
    Section 2SubwayNamba (Subway)～Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 3SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Osakako290JPY
    Section 4SubwayOsakako～Shinsaibashi290JPY
    Total1,010JPY

    Tour Report by KEN

    Hello. I have a very friendly and fun personality. I can provide you with a tour that will create unforgettable memories. Let’s explore the real Japan together!
    I am very knowledgeable about Japanese restaurants and bars, and I can also provide information on sports events, cultural experiences, shopping, and more. In addition, I can guide you on a tour of various cities throughout Japan. I can also arrange visits to amusement parks such as Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan, historical sites such as shrines and temples, and cultural experiences such as Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan, historical sites such as shrines and temples, and cultural experiences such as tea ceremonies and karate.

    Request Booking

    Jul 16, 2026
    Love_traveling196
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Ken you are amazing
    We had a wonderful tour of Osaka with Ken today. He was…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Phong_D
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Kenji, was…
    Our guide, Kenji, was outstanding. He took us…

  • Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①　10:00　Meet at the ticket gate of JR Nara Station
    • ②　10:05　Explanation of today's itinerary
    • ③　10:15　Take a taxi to Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • ④　10:35　About the history of Nara and Kyoto in front of the Kasuga Taisha Treasure House
    • ⑤　11:10　Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • ⑥　12:30　From the back road at the foot of Mount Wakakusa to Todaiji Nigatsudo and Hokkedo
    • ⑦　13:00　Ice cream break due to the extreme heat
    • ⑧　13:45　Todaiji Great Buddha Hall
    • ⑨　14:40　Yoshikien Garden
    • ⑩　15:20　Stroll around Naramachi, Nigiwai no Ie, etc.
    • ⑪　15:45　Disband near Kintetsu Nara Station

    Can You Do a Private Walking Tour of Nara from JR Nara Station? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, on their first trip to Japan, and had been very much looking forward to it. When touring Nara, even though the sightseeing spots are clustered together, there are actually uphill slopes that make walking tiring, yet the distances are not far enough to justify a taxi, and taxis do not readily come by. So this time, we took a taxi from JR Nara Station and went straight up the hill to first visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine. After that, we followed a back path along the foot of Mount Wakakusa, which sits imposingly behind Kasuga Taisha, leading toward Todaiji Temple. We walked leisurely with the greenery of Mount Wakakusa right beside us, feeding senbei crackers to the deer along the way. By doing this, we were able to escape the surging crowds of tourists and school excursion students in front of the Nandaimon Great South Gate of Todaiji, and without having to deliberately climb the temple grounds and stone steps, we could head toward the main hall of Todaiji simply by walking downhill while taking in views of Nigatsudo, Sangatsudo, and the bell tower. Finally, we paid our respects to the Great Buddha, and with the Nandaimon Gate directly in front of us, we took a route toward Yoshikien and Isuien gardens that avoids the crowds. After enjoying the Japanese gardens, we walked a little along the main street beside the Nara Prefectural Office, and went up to the rooftop of the prefectural office building, which is always open to the public for free on both weekdays and weekends. From there, one can look out over Mount Kasuga, Mount Wakakusa, the main hall of Todaiji, and the Nandaimon Gate, and looking west, one can gaze far off at Mount Ikoma below. Almost no one is on this rooftop. There is even an air-conditioned room with chairs. There is also a nearby convenience store where you can take a break. Since there is a taxi stand in front of the prefectural office, we took a taxi from there to Naramachi, enjoyed Naramachi just a little, and then parted ways. In any case, it was again extremely hot and humid today, and by the end the guests were worn out, so we finished a little earlier than planned. It seems they were going to join a dinner tour in Gion, Kyoto, at 6 in the evening, so they had skipped lunch entirely, leaving everyone completely exhausted. Yet perhaps because they were so devoted to the dinner tour (laughs), not a single one of them ever said they were hungry, which impressed me greatly. The Japanese garden had a tea room — an authentic tea room with a nijiriguchi crawl-in entrance. When I asked if they knew about wabi-sabi, one of the guests knew even though the others did not, and explained it as "finding beauty in insufficiency and imperfection." When I asked where they had learned that, they said it was from Japanese anime. Anime is amazing. I think today's guests walked very well in this brutal heat without even eating. Normally, most people would skip Naramachi at the end. They did splendidly.

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

    Tour Report by Kazu

    Hello, this is Kazu Akiyama, your tour guide. Nice to meet you and welcome to Japan. Thank you for joining me on the tour. Now I am a retired salaried worker, living in Osaka. I have been very much interested in not only learning Japanese history, culture, religion myself, but also talking about them (sometimes going off topics) in English with tourists from all over the world as well. I am so excited being with you as your guide on coming day! I am very much looking forward to you enjoying with me visiting the must-see places and some of the hidden gems. See you soon. Thank you – Kazu Akiyama

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    Jul 29, 2026
    James_G
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great guide and very…
    Great guide and very knowledgeable.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    peterhR6472GA
    Kyoto highlights with Kazu.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with Kazu…

    Jul 12, 2026
    cgalvez73
    Fantastic tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our guide in Kyoto was Kazu.…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Winni_H
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Highly recommended when in Kyoto
    Our tour guide…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Tour of "Nijo Castle"

    Kyoto in One Day: Tour of “Nijo Castle”

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meeting point: Kyoto Station
    • 11:15 Travel to Nijo Castle by subway
    • 11:40 Tour of "Nijo Castle"
    • 12:30 Travel to Nishiki Market by subway
    • 12:45 Tour of "Nishiki Market" and lunch
    • 13:45 Walk to Gion
    • 14:00 Stroll around the "Gion" area
    • 14:30 Walk and stroll along "Ninenzaka" and "Sannenzaka"
    • 15:00 Break at a cafe on Kiyomizu-zaka (Fushimi Inari visit cancelled due to fatigue from high temperature and humidity)
    • 15:30 Tour of "Kiyomizu-dera Temple"
    • 16:45 Walk to the bus stop (Gojozaka)
    • 17:00 End of guided tour at the bus stop

    What Is a 6-Hour Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests on this tour were a group visiting Japan from North America, sightseeing while traveling on a cruise ship (docked at Osaka Port, Tempozan). Prior communication about which places to visit was handled through one member of the group. Since it was the group's first visit to Japan, they expressed a wish to "see as many places as possible," and the final itinerary was set as: Nijo Castle → Nishiki Market → Gion → (via Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka) → Kiyomizu-dera → Fushimi Inari. This was quite a packed itinerary for a "6-hour course," but at that point I judged it feasible since the destinations were clustered from central Kyoto toward the east. On the day, although it was mostly cloudy, both the temperature and humidity were high, and it was expected that traveling on foot would be quite challenging. With "heat stroke alerts" being issued, I discussed things carefully with the guests, and we agreed on the importance of responding flexibly so as not to put too much strain on the body. The visit to Nijo Castle went smoothly with a round trip by subway, and Nishiki Market was comfortable thanks to the air conditioning in the many shops lining the street. The challenge came afterward, with the outdoor walking tour around the Gion area and the route to Kiyomizu-dera via Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka. I judged that walking for a long time under the blazing sun in high heat and humidity would be very dangerous, so I suggested, "Let's take a break for about 30 minutes at a café," and we rested and rehydrated at a shop on Kiyomizu-zaka. During this break, I discussed with the guests what to do about Fushimi Inari after visiting Kiyomizu-dera. The guests expressed the wish that, "since it is more demanding than we imagined, we would like to cancel Fushimi Inari and return to the Gion area to enjoy the atmosphere of the Gion Festival." Based on this conclusion, after thoroughly exploring Kiyomizu-dera, we walked down to the bus stop on Gojo-zaka and parted ways. Even in the extreme heat, it was a tour that reminded me once again of the importance of communicating well with the guests and responding flexibly.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto～Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijojo-mae～Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)220JPY
    Total480JPY

    Tour Report by Nori

    Hi, everyone! I’m Norifumi Kamon, a government registered guide interpreter. Please call me “Nori”, or “Kamon-san”.
    Let me introdece myself. I was born on April 17th in 1952 in Miyazaki prefecture in Kyushu island. I used to be an English teacher of Osaka Prefectural high school. When I retired from a teacher ten years ago, I decided to get a professional guide license. I wanted to play a role of the bridge between Japanese people and the people from all over the world as a second life of mine. After two years efforts, I finally got the guide license. Since then, I have guided several handreds of foreign people mainly in Kyoto and Nara for about five years except Corona Pandemic period. Almost all the tourists were deeply impressed by the beauty of nature, traditoin, culture, and art of Japan. I can surely help you enjoy and be satisfied with the sightseeing in Japan. And I’m looking forward to seeing you soon.

    Request Booking

    Apr 9, 2026
    Ron_W
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We saw so much in the…
    We saw so much in the…

    Mar 24, 2026
    zackn719
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Knowledgeable guide and a great tour
    We did our private tour with…

    Oct 20, 2025
    66speech
    Highlights of Kyoto.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience with Nori. Nori exceeded our expectations with…

    Oct 16, 2025
    Michael_H
    Thoroughly enjoyed the…
    Viator review: Osaka Off the Beaten Path 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Thoroughly enjoyed the day out…

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

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

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 13:00-15:00 Higashiyama District, Ninenzaka, Sannenzaka
    • 15:00-15:30 Yasaka Shrine
    • 15:30-16:00 Kennin-ji Temple

    Title: What's a Private Walking Tour of Kyoto's Higashiyama Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a very young group visiting from Europe. We took a taxi to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and since it was a very hot day, we took breaks at souvenir shops as we walked along Sannenzaka, past Hokan-ji Temple, and then down Ninenzaka and Ichinenzaka toward Yasaka Shrine. There happened to be a festival parade, and in Gion we were lucky enough to see many maiko coming out from Ichiriki. Some of the guests visited Kennin-ji Temple. As they mentioned they wanted to drink beer, I guided them to a sushi restaurant to finish the tour. Unfortunately, some of the guests had already returned to their hotel, so I was not able to say goodbye in person, but I contacted them via a messaging app to conclude the tour.

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

    Tour Report by Harumi

    Hello, my name is Harumi, and I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter in Japan. I have been actively involved in volunteer activities for many years, sharing my passion for Japanese culture and history. As a kimono dressing instructor, I can provide hands-on kimono experiences and guide tours. Additionally, I have extensive knowledge of sumo wrestling, making my tours ideal for those interested in this fascinating sport. I am also well-versed in Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings (Jūdenken) and can introduce historical townscapes dating back to the Edo period. If you are interested, I would be happy to show you around the sake brewing process in the Nada region.

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    Jul 11, 2026
    Rahul_P
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Private Tour
    Highly recommended if looking for a comfortable tour…

    Jul 7, 2026
    782MarkS782
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Harumi and Kyoto
    This was amazing – truly memory making. Harumi is…

    Jun 25, 2026
    JenCBear
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great visit with a great guide Harumi
    Harumi was a fantastic guide…

    Jun 21, 2026
    Andrew_M
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Amazing guided experience
    Harumi is an amazing guide.…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Higashiyama Area

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Higashiyama Area

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel Meet
    • 10:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 12:00 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 12:55 Higashiyama Area
    • 13:45 Tour Ends

    What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. As they were sensitive to the heat, I made sure they stayed well hydrated, but we ended the tour before visiting Gion and they returned to their hotel by taxi. When I explained Shinto at Fushimi Inari Taisha, they were surprised to learn how views on nature differ between Europe and Japan. Since it was my first time guiding guests from that region, I learned a great deal about it from them, making it a very meaningful tour. In addition to Fushimi Inari Taisha, they took many photos at Kiyomizu-dera and throughout the Higashiyama area.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainInari～Tofukuji150JPY
    Section 3BusTofukuji / Kyoto City Bus～Gojozaka / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total530JPY

    Tour Report by Mizu

    Hello, my name is Mizuho Yoshikawa. Please call me Mizu and my name means rice and water in Japanese.
    I’ve been a tour guide more than 200 times since the spring of 2023 in Kobe, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Wakayama and Kochi. My tour is always original and new, depending on the guest’s preferences, encounters, seasons and weather.
    In Kyoto, one of my tours is to climb Mt. Kurama. It is about 1 hour from the city of Kyoto by train, it is a very quiet and beautiful mountain.
    In Osaka, which is called the kitchen of Japan, I am also in charge of food tour.
    In Nara, in addition to the Great Budda Hall, I guide guests to the temple with a really great view and Japanese wine, sake tasting.
    Every city has a unique charming point.
    The motto of my guiding is ” Ichigo Ichie” Once in a lifetime or seize the day. I learn this concept that the moment will never be the same again through tea ceremonies.
    I like a tea ceremony that is part of the traditional Japanese culture and embodies the spirit of “omotenashi” or hospitality. Through the tea ceremony, we can feel the spirit of “omotenashi” that has been passed down to us from ancient times.
    And I like to travel abroad and domestically, and I have been to 13 overseas countries and most of the prefectures in Japan. Traveling always gives me a new perspective, which is exciting and thrilling. Nowadays, we can learn a lot from the Internet, but traveling teaches us that it is important to have direct experience. When I travel, I feel that my five senses are infinitely expanded, and through my tour, I help all guests to have the same feeling in Japan.
    I was born and raised in Kanagawa Prefecture, which is next to Tokyo Prefecture in eastern Japan. When I was little, I could see Mount Fuji from my backyard. There was also a rice field nearby, and I grew up listening to the croaking of frogs. Listening to the frogs and seeing the mountains made me feel very calm.
    I moved to the city of Kobe, one of the Kansai areas in western Japan, which includes Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and so on. I’m not from the Kansai area of western Japan, but I think that makes me sensitive to the differences between that area and the Kanto area, Tokyo, where I grew up.
    Speaking of Kobe, you might be thinking of Kobe beef. Of course you do. There are also other sake breweries in Nada in Kobe. You can also go from Kobe city to Himeji Castle, also known as the White Egret Castle, which was the first in Japan to be listed as a World Heritage Site in 1993.
    Let’s meet and enjoy Japan together!

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    Jul 27, 2026
    OscarBrisenoJr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Awesome tour of Kyoto
    Seeing the temples and shrines…

    Jul 21, 2026
    MarcL3556
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful and Memorable Tour of Osaka with Mizu…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Ranvt
    Local tour kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    I had a great experience on this local…

    Jun 11, 2026
    MamaL843
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing Kyoto with Mizu
    Mizu-San gave us an AMAZING tour of Kyoto.…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Shibuya Crossing

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Shibuya Crossing

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet @ Hotel
    • 10:20 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:30 Shibuya Crossing
    • 12:10 Ginza Lunch @ Soba Restaurant in Mitsukoshi
    • 14:00 Asakusa (Nakamise, Senso-ji Temple)
    • 16:00 Disband @ Harajuku

    What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a very friendly group visiting from Oceania. They had come to Japan as the final stop of a round-the-world trip. After Meiji Shrine and Shibuya Crossing, we went to Ginza, and following lunch at a department store, we enjoyed a latte with a photo design at a café. It was their first time trying soba, but they also finished all of their tempura. They purchased souvenirs at a cloisonné shop, and along the Nakamise shopping street they enjoyed a variety of shopping, including kaminari-okoshi sweets and stamps. Since they wished to shop at a cosmetics store in front of Harajuku Station, we said our goodbyes in front of the shop. It was a hot day, but it was a very enjoyable tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Harajuku160JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku～Shibuya160JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya～Ginza210JPY
    Section 4SubwayGinza～Asakusa210JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa～Meiji-jingumae260JPY
    Total1,000JPY

    Tour Report by Rumi

    Hello,
    I’m Rumi.Welcome to Japan!!
    I’m a government-licensed guide in the Tokyo area.
    I’m so excited to have a chance to show you my favorite places in Tokyo.
    Tokyo is a fantastic city with many aspects like history,culture and food.
    What interests you about Tokyo?
    What kind of Japanese food would you like to try?
    I’ll take you to various places according to your request.
    My favorite spot is Meiji Shrine.
    It’s so peaceful that I’m sure you like it.
    I really like to talk with foreigners about various topics.So, I love my job.
    I look forward to meeting and guiding you soon.

    Request Booking

    Jun 29, 2026
    898clausw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Really helpfull guide
    Extremely helpfull to have a friendly and competent guide…

    Jun 27, 2026
    sallypO7128PM
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo- family with older teens
    My family had an excellent…

    Jun 15, 2026
    Scott P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Terrific Tour and Guide
    We had an incredible day! Rumi was…

    Jun 12, 2026
    Tonya O
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Rumi is a great guide!
    Rumi was a wonderful guide. She…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • ０９：００THE KNOT TOKYO Shinjuku
    • ０９：３０Shinjuku Station Travel Center – Web Ticket Exchange
    • ０９：５０Meiji Shrine
    • １０：５５Takeshita Street
    • １１：３０Omotesando
    • １２：３０Shibuya Station Hachiko

    What Is a Private Hakone and Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from Europe. Below are some of the memorable exchanges and topics that came up during the tour. 1. I've made a romance car reservation with web tickets and need to change them to physical tickets. 2. Education in their home country is free. Students get paid every month for attending university, keeping good records, and working at the same time at a hospital and at a senior house. 3. Partners must take 11 weeks of parental leave; otherwise, a full year of leave cannot be taken. 4. You wear a helmet when you ride a bicycle. It's mandatory. 5. You study the local language and English and choose German or French. 6. Why can't you walk in the center (the approach to the shrine's main hall)? 7. Everywhere is so clean. Many seniors are working. The retirement age used to be 60, then 65, and is currently 70, the same as in their home country. 8. When it reaches 15℃, people go out to get some sun. 9. Voter turnout depends on the election, but is around 80 percent overall in their home country. 10. We're kind of done, thank you. Additional notes: First, the guests wanted to quickly change the web tickets for the Hakone Romancecar, as it was for the next day. We were able to convert them right away, and the guests appeared relieved. After completing the itinerary, at 12:30 the guests decided between one of two dining spots, and the tour ended there. I received the question, "By the way, how many years did Hachi sit at the station?" I provided an answer that same day. It was a wonderful group whose warm and pleasant nature really came through. Thank you very much. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. Winner of Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Harajuku160JPY
    Section 2SubwayOmotesando～Shibuya180JPY
    Total340JPY

    Tour Report by Hideaki

    Hello, welcome to Japan you all.

    I’m a resident of Ebina, Kanagawa, and am a national government licensed guide and interpreter.
    I enjoy showing travelers both the new and old of central Honshu, primarily Tokyo and Kanagawa, ranging from Meiji Shrine, Edo Castle, Tsukiji Outer Market, Ueno, Asakusa, Ginza, Ginza Sky Farmstead, Shibuya Zebra Crossings, Yokohama, Kamakura, to Hakone, not to mention Mt. Fuji, and sharing views with my guests on Japanese homes and their surroundings, Japan’s labor productivity and labor market, among others.

    I also enjoy introducing travelers to Japanese culture through home visits with Japanese families, touring Zen temples, and explaining the intricacies of Japanese culture.

    I am happy to arrange personalized tours to other places of your interest.
    I am making the most of my long experience as a foreign language education service, escorting VIPs at the Sony showroom in Ginza, Tokyo.
    I also offer services to help families and individuals relocating to Japan with immigration VISA applications.

    My hobbies are movies, strolling along the river in my neighborhood and am a novice at la lingua Italiano.
    Let’s enjoy touring together, shall we?

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    Hideaki’s perfect first day in Tokyo!
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  • 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, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00　Meet at Machiya Ebisuya, then travel by bus
    • 10:20　Stroll around Kinkaku-ji Temple, then travel toward Shijo Kawaramachi
    • 11:30　Lunch, then travel to Fushimi Inari
    • 13:20　Stroll around Fushimi Inari, then travel to Gojozaka
    • 14:10　Stroll around Gojozaka, Sannenzaka, and Ninenzaka
    • 15:00　Disband on-site

    What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, on a somewhat ambitious 10-day itinerary through Japan. Since the temperature exceeded 30 degrees and some of the guests were showing signs of travel fatigue, I suggested reducing the originally planned visits to four temples and shrines to ease the load. On the bus, I chatted with one of the guests, who sat beside me, about work and hobbies such as car racing and wagyu beef. It was quite hot and humid from the morning, so at Kinkaku-ji we took photos and toured the garden efficiently before moving on to Pontocho in an air-conditioned bus. The guests were tired but behaved with excellent manners. We all enjoyed a lively meal of sashimi and steak along with fried chicken and french fries. The steak grilled on a tabletop stove was especially a big hit with everyone, and it was wonderful to see smiles that we had not seen outdoors. With everyone's energy revived, we strolled through Fushimi Inari. Perhaps due to the heat and the Gion Festival, there were fewer people than usual, so we were able to view the approach, the shrine buildings, and the torii gates smoothly. Since we had about 30 extra minutes, we restored a stroll around Kiyomizu-dera, which one of the guests had wished to see. Although the peak of the heat should have passed, walking outdoors was hot enough to make one dizzy. One of the guests took great interest in the old townscape and traditional goods, while others were feeling worn out, so I guided them to the shade. Originally I had planned to accompany them back to the hotel, but as we were running close to the end time, they decided to return by taxi, so we parted ways on site. I hope they continue their trip safely and without overexertion.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKawaramachi Matsubara／Kyoto City Bus～Kinkakuji-michi／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2BusKinkakuji-michi／Kyoto City Bus～Shijo Kawaramachi／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3TrainGion-Shijo～Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Section 4TrainFushimi Inari～Shichijo180JPY
    Section 5TrainShichijo Keihan-mae／Kyoto City Bus～Gojozaka／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 6TrainKiyomizu-michi／Kyoto City Bus～Shijo Kawaramachi／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total1,340JPY

    Tour Report by keiji

    Hi, I’m Keiji Hashimoto, a Wakayama Licensed Local Guide Interpreter. Based in Tanabe City, Wakayama, I guide inbound travelers introduced through travel agencies in Tanabe, Osaka, and Tokyo, as well as guide-matching platforms such as Airbnb, GoWithGuide, and JTB Global Marketing. I mainly guide the Kumano Kodo and Koyasan and have been familiar with Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara.

    Over the past eight years, I’ve worked more than 150 guiding days. On Airbnb and GoWithGuide, I’ve received a total of 30 five-star reviews (out of 5). For tours arranged through travel agencies, I typically don’t receive direct feedback from clients.

    I decided to become an English guide on the Kumano Kodo because I truly love traveling myself. I’ve visited all 47 prefectures of Japan and traveled to more than 40 countries. During my travels, I’ve often been helped by local people and fellow travelers. Becoming a guide is my way of giving back, supporting visitors who come all the way to Kumano.

    My main job is as a Nanko-ume (Japanese apricot) farmer, which makes it difficult to take long trips abroad. However, guiding international guests on the Kumano Kodo allows me to stay connected with global trends and perspectives.

    The moments that make me happiest as a guide are when I’m sweating together with guests as we cross mountain passes, when I can sense what they need and solve problems almost without words, when we share a firm handshake at the end of the tour, and when I receive emails or letters from them after they return home. Those are the times I truly feel glad to be a guide.

    I look forward to seeing you and sharing wonderful time with you.

    Thank you.

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