Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 2. 10:10 Travel: Train
    • 3. 11:05 Stay @ Meiji Shrine
    • 4. 12:00 Stay @ Harajuku
    • 5. 12:20 Travel: Subway
    • 6. 12:55 Stay @ Tsukiji
    • 7. 13:30 Lunch @ Uotsuki, Stay @ Tsukiji Hongwanji
    • 8. 14:45 Travel: Subway
    • 9. 15:15 Stay @ Asakusa
    • 10. 15:50 Disband @ Senso-ji

    What Is a Private Family-Friendly Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Tsukiji, and Asakusa The guests were a group visiting from Europe. Although there was little communication beforehand, once they replied via a messaging app the day before, we were able to keep in touch smoothly. We decided which spots to visit on the day itself, after discussing with the representative of the group. Meiji Shrine was somewhat cooler than the other spots, and I felt it was a fitting place to start the tour. Next, I guided them to Tsukiji, partly as a place for lunch, but upon arriving we learned that they had already visited the day before. For that reason, I made an effort to share some more unusual stories so the content would not overlap, and for lunch I chose a Japanese restaurant rather than sushi. Since they had not yet visited Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, I explained it in a little more detail. Because we spent a bit longer at Tsukiji, in Asakusa I kept the explanation focused mainly on Nakamise Street. After guiding them through Senso-ji Temple, I had intended to see them off at their hotel, but since they wished to stay a little longer, we parted ways there at Senso-ji Temple.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShiomi Station～Harajuku Station320JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae Station～Tsukiji Station210JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukiji Station～Asakusa Station210JPY
    Total740JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

    Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
    I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
    I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
    One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
    Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
    I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

    Request Booking

    Sep 29, 2026
    Y9791IZnicks
    Making the most of a rainy day
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Sam was a wonderful…

    Sep 25, 2026
    910lorig
    Best experience for a perfect day in Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Best…

    Sep 15, 2026
    R8612KOjanicea
    Highly recommend 👍
    Tripadvisor review: Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Sam, was amazing!!…

    Sep 1, 2026
    greasygrandpa
    First Day In Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our tour guide Sam was very knowledgeable…

  • Kyoto: Nijo Castle & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kyoto: Nijo Castle & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30　Meet at the hotel
    • 8:50　Nijo Castle
    • 10:10　Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 11:30　Mikami Shrine, Bamboo Grove Path, Nonomiya Shrine, Tenryu-ji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge
    • 12:20　Lunch in Arashiyama
    • 13:30　While driving along Shijo Street, introduced the floats lined up for the Yoiyama of the Gion Festival
    • 14:10　Fushimi Inari Shrine. The car service ends here. The customer requested, "I'd like to go to Kiyomizu-dera Temple next, could you guide us there too?" and I agreed.
    • 15:20　Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 16:10　Guide finished. Since I went over the guiding time by one hour, I received 4,000 yen from the customer. They said, "Hideharu, you are an Excellent Guide. It was wonderful. Thank you!" and we parted.

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Guided Tour of Kyoto? A Licensed Guide's Report We first visited Nijo Castle. The Ninomaru Palace was closed, but I guided the group through the East Gate, the Karamon Gate, and the gardens, explaining that it served as both a castle and a palace designed to welcome the Emperor. At Kinkaku-ji, although rain had been forecast, faint sunlight came through, and the guests were deeply moved by the sight of the temple shining in gold. When I mentioned that in my student days I had come here in despair, thinking of throwing myself into the water, the reaction was, "Oh my God, but you're alive!" — met with surprise and laughter. I then guided the group to Mikami Shrine, the Bamboo Grove Path, Nonomiya Shrine, Tenryu-ji Temple, and the Togetsukyo Bridge. At Mikami Shrine, one of the guests remarked, "I should have come to pray here much sooner," which made everyone laugh. We headed by car toward Fushimi Inari Shrine, but the driver said, "The roads are clear, so we might be able to see the Gion Festival floats," and took us along Shijo Street. There I introduced the festival floats one by one. One of the guests said, "We might come back at night." Once we arrived at Fushimi Inari Shrine, the car service ended. The guests then asked, "We'd like to visit Kiyomizu-dera next, so could you continue guiding us? We'll pay the additional guide fee directly to the guide," and I agreed. I guided them to Kiyomizu-dera, where everyone drank the wish-granting water at the Otowa Waterfall and were delighted.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainFushimi Inari～Higashiyama Gojo220JPY
    Total220JPY

    Tour Report by Shuji

    My name is Shuji, meaning “Excellent Manager” in English. I was born in Hiroshima 1952. I have 2 children and 3 grandchildren.
    After graduating Kyoto Univ. I joined Mitsubishi-UFJ Bank, Osaka Branch where I met my wife who was a master of Englsih, so I started studying English.
    The bank allowed me to go to Columbia Graduate business school in New York and got MBA Degree there. I worked in London and Manchester Branch.
    During staying in U.K., I was introduced by BBC and Financial Times News Paper about my achievement there. I was selected as a personal assistant and interpreter for the President of the Bank.
    I made many business trips with him to overseas countries. I experienced as an interpreter for meeting late Henry Kissinger and the President of Citi. Corp.
    I changed the job to ORIX corporation, there I was promoted to a Board Member. When the company had acquired Dutch company, I was a member as an accountant to check the Dutch company’s statements of accounts.
    My hobbies are cooking, singing a song, playing tennis & golf, enjoy seeing arts especially opera & musical, travel. I am also busy with taking care of grandchildren. I passed Government Licensed Guide Exam. in 2016. After I retired in 2017, I started guide job as a part timer. So far, I accomplished guide job more than 500 times.
    My area coverage is from Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji to Kyoto, Nara, Oaka, Hiroshima. I am also able to guide Tea Ceremony, Maiko/Geisha, Sushi Making, Calligraphy, Sumo, Samurai, etc. I can speak excellent English. My knowledge is very wide and deep about not only sightseeing places but Japanese History, Culture, Religion, Daily Life. I know many foreign countries and people. I love talking with all kinds of people including babies with interesting humor.
    By the way, I look young for my age of 74.

    Request Booking

    Sep 16, 2026
    Nusret_K
    See the best of Tokyo for a few hours
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide…

    Jul 16, 2026
    salomons666
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto fun
    Amazing with our guide Shuji very kind and acknowledge

    Jul 15, 2026
    P9099TXkennethr
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    A great day
    A great day in the Company of mr. Shuji.

    Jun 28, 2026
    A
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    AmyfromPlano
    Shuji is the best! Once we booked this tour, he reached…

  • 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

    • 1. 09:55 Meet up @ Kowakidani Station
    • 2. 10:10 Travel: Train, Cable Car, Ropeway
    • 3. 10:55 Stay @ Owakudani
    • 4. 11:25 Travel: Ropeway
    • 5. 12:00 Stay @ Lake Ashi (Board the Pirate Ship)
    • 6. 12:50 Lunch @ Kinuhiki no Sato
    • 7. 13:45 Stay @ Hakone Shrine
    • 8. 14:55 Travel: Bus
    • 9. 15:35 Disband @ Hakone-Yumoto Station

    What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour Like in the Rain? A Licensed Guide's Report I had exchanged emails many times with the guests beforehand, which made everything very smooth. When asked about the hotel's pickup service, I explained that some hotels cannot arrange it before 10:00, so I suggested delaying the tour start time by one hour to 10:00. Also, since including myself the total came to seven people and two cars would be needed, I changed the meeting point to Kowakidani Station. The guests arrived at the station early, which gave us plenty of time to spare. Unfortunately, the weather at Owakudani was terrible, with not only rain but also strong wind. Even so, thanks to the cheerful group, the tour proceeded enjoyably from start to finish. At Lake Ashi and Hakone Shrine, the guests seemed to enjoy the mystical scenery in the rain. The meal at Kinuhiki no Sato was also well received. At the end, I explained at Hakone-Yumoto Station how to return to the hotel by the mountain railway, and then we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassKowakidani Station～Gora Station5,000JPY
    Section 2Free PassGora Station～Sounzan Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassSounzan Station～Owakudani Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassOwakudani Station～Togendai Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassTogendai Port～Motohakone Port0JPY
    Section 6Free PassMotohakone Port Bus Stop～Hakone-Yumoto Station Bus Stop0JPY
    Total5,000JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

    Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
    I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
    I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
    One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
    Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
    I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

    Request Booking

    Sep 29, 2026
    Y9791IZnicks
    Making the most of a rainy day
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Sam was a wonderful…

    Sep 25, 2026
    910lorig
    Best experience for a perfect day in Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Best…

    Sep 15, 2026
    R8612KOjanicea
    Highly recommend 👍
    Tripadvisor review: Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Sam, was amazing!!…

    Sep 1, 2026
    greasygrandpa
    First Day In Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our tour guide Sam was very knowledgeable…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Dotonbori

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Dotonbori

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet @ Zentis Osaka
    • 10:30 @ Osaka Castle
    • 12:45 @ Shinsaibashi (Daimaru Department Store)
    • 13:45 @ Dotonbori
    • 14:15 Disband @ Dotonbori

    What Is a Private Osaka Day Tour with a Licensed Guide Like? A Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Osaka, and since one of the guests was feeling a little tired from the continuous heat, we took frequent breaks. At Osaka Castle, one of the guests rested for a while, while the others toured with great enthusiasm and took many photos. Afterward, they enjoyed shaved ice and soft-serve ice cream at "Miraiza," the facility attached to the castle. Since they were still a little hungry, they had some sweet buns at a bakery recommended by the guide inside the nearest station, and they were very satisfied. As one of the guests was still feeling tired, we cut the originally planned visit to Shitennoji Temple. Instead, I guided them to shops selling Japanese anime character goods, which they were interested in, and they were delighted. After that, I guided them to Dotonbori, where they decided to continue on their own, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNishi-Umeda～Morinomiya240JPY
    Section 2SubwayMorinomiya～Shinsaibashi240JPY
    Total480JPY

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Request Booking

    Sep 27, 2026
    Ross_W
    Fun with Hidden Gems
    Viator review: Osaka Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour, Licensed Guide
    Our guide Yama was so…

    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Great experience
    Yama was great, he showed us around and explained…

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

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

  • 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

    • 1017 Meet at Hakone-Yumoto Station. After storing luggage in a locker, take the train to the Hakone Open-Air Museum and lunch at Bella Foresta. Then take the train and cable car, and via Owakudani on the Sounzan ropeway to Togendai. From there, 14:30 pirate ship. After disembarking at Hakone-machi, take the bus via Moto-Hakone to Hakone Shrine Torii. From Moto-Hakone, take the 17:15 express bus, arriving at Hakone-Yumoto at 17:40. From here, board a taxi and disband at 17:55.

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine, and Mount Fuji From the atmosphere at our meeting, I sensed the guests were on a special trip, and it turned out to be a three-person journey. We took photos at many points along the way. Thinking I would like to take a commemorative photo, while we were having a meal at the Hakone Open-Air Museum, I borrowed a marker from a staff member and added to the name board I always make myself, turning it into a celebratory board, and asked the staff member to take a photo for the guests. They took the board home as a keepsake. They really wanted to take a photo at the red torii gate of Hakone Shrine. We joined the long line and, after about an hour, managed to get the shot. Finally, we returned to Moto-Hakone and tried to see Mount Fuji; only a bit of the ridgeline was visible, but that was better than nothing. We took on various challenges and finished the tour happily.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOdawara Station～Odawara Station5,000JPY
    Total5,000JPY

    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

    Request Booking

    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
    T7734IPbrandons
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in hakone
    Niro was perfect for us. He was…

  • Hyogo in One Day: Umeda Sky Building & Kobe Port Terminal

    Hyogo in One Day: Umeda Sky Building & Kobe Port Terminal

    Osaka in 1 Day from Kobe by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 pick up at Kobe Port Terminal
    • 10:10 Umeda Sky Building
    • 11:10 (leave)
    • 11:30 Shinsekai
    • (lunch)
    • 12:40 (leave)
    • 13:00 Osaka Castle
    • (enter main tower)
    • 14:30 (leave)
    • 14:50 NambaYasaka Shrine
    • 15:00 (leave)
    • 15:10 Dotonbori
    • 15:50 (leave)
    • 16:15 Sake Museum(Hakushika shuzo)
    • 16:50 (leave)
    • 17:15 Kobe Port Terminal

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Day Tour of Osaka? A Licensed Guide's Report on Umeda, Shinsekai, Osaka Castle, and Dotonbori The guests were a group visiting from North America. At the Umeda Sky Building, they purchased English name plates. For lunch in Shinsekai, they enjoyed local Osaka foods such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu. Osaka Castle was extremely hot that day. Since we arrived at Dotonbori about 30 minutes ahead of schedule, I suggested visiting a sake brewery to the guests (as they had been enjoying some drinks during lunch). We visited a sake museum operated by a sake brewery in Nishinomiya, where the guests enjoyed a tasting and purchased a set including a sake bottle and sake cups, as well as a sweater and other items. The tour was arranged through [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures.

    Click here for more details: Osaka in 1 Day from Kobe by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by HIDEYOSHI

    Hello, I’m HIDEo YOSHIda. Please call me HIDEYOSHI, the same name as a famous shogun who unified Japan for the first time in 1590.
    I was born in Kobe, worked in Osaka for nearly 40 years. I would like to introduce you Kansai region, including Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara and Wakayama.
    In Kyoto, I can guide you Nijojo Castle, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kinkakuji Tempe (Golden Pavilion), Gion area, and Fushimi Inari Taisha.
    In Osaka, I’ll show you Osaka Castle, Shinsekai, Dotonbori, and Umeda Sky biilding. We have locall foods such as Kushikatau, Okonomiyaki and Takoyaki.
    In Kobe, I’ll take you to former foreign residential area, Sannomiya Shopping Street, Chinese Market, and Arima Onsen.
    In Nara, I’ll guide you Todaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, Kasuga Taisha, and Yakushiji Temple.
    In Wakayama, I take you to Koyasan, the center of Esoteric Buddhism.
    I enjoy guiding foreign tourists.
    I can show you Japanese history, especially samurai period, and Shinto and Buddhism.
    I’ve been looking forward to guiding you !!

    Request Booking

    Jun 1, 2026
    Stephan_F
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great overview of the…
    Great overview of the highlights of Kyoto with…

    May 28, 2025
    terrym866
    Kyoto guided tour was as promised. Very knowledgeable guide and driver .
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full Day Tour from Kobe with…

    Oct 17, 2024
    katiya2017
    Walking visit in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Government-Licensed Guide
    We booked a full day walking…

    Sep 29, 2024
    Roy_M
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a very good private tour with…

  • Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 7:00 Meet up @Hotel Osaka
    • 2. 8:30 @Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 3. 10:30 @Arashiyama
    • 4. 12:30 @Gion
    • 5. 14:00 @Osaka Umeda
    • 6. 14: 20 Dismissal @Lucua

    Can You Do a Private One-Day Kyoto and Arashiyama Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests had requested, through both the guests and an agency, to visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kiyomizu-dera, Nijo Castle, Gion, and a particular sweets shop, so I had planned the itinerary accordingly. However, the guests responded with "What is that sweets shop?", which left me a little puzzled. Since it was also the day of the Gion Festival Yamaboko Junko procession, I suggested choosing between Nijo Castle and Kiyomizu-dera, and we decided on Kiyomizu-dera. But then, after Fushimi Inari Taisha, just as I had bought the tickets to take the Keihan train to Kiyomizu-Gojo, I noticed the sad expressions of some of the guests, who asked, "Aren't we going to the Bamboo Forest?" I made up my mind and said, "Let's skip Kiyomizu-dera and go to the Bamboo Forest!", making a major change to the course. After taking many photos at the bamboo grove and the Oi River, we headed to Gion. We happened to encounter the turning of the Naginata-boko float at Shijo-Kawaramachi, but perhaps because of the heat, the guests' reaction was muted, which was a little disappointing. Since we were unable to visit the character goods shop on Ninenzaka that some of the guests had wanted to see, I guided them to a Ghibli goods shop in Osaka afterward before we parted ways. I believe they enjoyed themselves.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNakanoshima～Fushimi Inari490JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari～Sanjo220JPY
    Section 3TrainSanjo～Nijo220JPY
    Section 4TrainNijo～Saga-Arashiyama200JPY
    Section 5TrainArashiyama～Kyoto Kawaramachi240JPY
    Section 6TrainKyoto Kawaramachi～Osaka Umeda410JPY
    Total1,780JPY

    Tour Report by YUKA

    Hi! My name is YUKA. I’ve got the government license in 2018 and joined a half year traning to do the guide. But a half year later I started my carreer, Covid came. I should have given up guiding. During the Covid, I’ve read many books and made my own materials to explain Japanese culture, history, etc. I love guiding because the guests expand my horizon all the time and let me know their own country and culture, etc. It is really important for us all to know each other and respect each other to make this world peace. Thank you for coming to Japan! Let’s enjoy Japan together!

    Request Booking

    Sep 29, 2026
    duncans746
    Yuka was great
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Yuka was a fantastic guide, knowledgeable,…

    Sep 23, 2026
    navinderp2024
    Great day in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 9, 2026
    piperl686
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Honeymoon Tour in Kyoto
    We were so impressed by…

    Aug 5, 2026
    Anita_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great day of sightseeing in Kyoto
    Yuka was a…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Himeji Castle & Himeji Station

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Himeji Castle & Himeji Station

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00　Himeji Station, Station Deck
    • 12:20　Lunch
    • 13:20　Himeji Castle
    • 15:30　Koko-en Garden
    • 16:20　Himeji Station
    • 16:20

    What Is a Private Himeji Castle and Kokoen Garden Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were enjoying their first trip to Japan very much. The only castle they visited was Himeji Castle, and they were greatly impressed not only by the beauty of its exterior and the views from within, but also by the ingenuity of its architecture, defenses, and offensive designs. They showed some fatigue from the heat and humidity, so we walked in the shade as much as possible and took breaks along the way. For lunch, they enjoyed somen noodles and tanindon for the first time. I was glad I had reserved a relaxed restaurant with a wide variety of menu options. They seemed to like the calm atmosphere of Kokoen Garden.

    Click here for more details: Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHimeji Station～In front of Himeji Castle Otemon Gate190JPY
    Section 2BusIn front of Himeji Castle Otemon Gate～Himeji Station190JPY
    Total380JPY

    Tour Report by Nishi

    Hello. I am Nishimoto Mutsuko. Please call me Nishi. I am a woman in my 50s. I was born in Himeji and live in Himeji now. I will help you enjoy your visit of Japan: sightseeing, Japanese history, culture, food and shopping. In Himeji we have a world- famous Himeji Castle. You will surely be mesmerized to see such a big wooden structure building with strategies of attack and defense. There are also a nice garden near the castle, a sake brewery and an old famous temple in the mountain. I can customize a tour as much as possible to meet your reqursts. I have guided as a national licenced guide since 2019.
    I can speak Spanish in conversational level.
    I look forward to seeing you!
    Thank you.

    Request Booking

    Apr 14, 2025
    Emily_P
    Great morning activity,…
    Viator review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great morning activity, Nishi was a wonderful guide! Perfect…

    Oct 6, 2024
    mackenzies830
    Thank you for an enjoyable experience!
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nishi is awesome and we enjoyed…

    Sep 23, 2024
    Ambassador814802
    Niemals ohne Nishi
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Toller Guide: kompetent, freundlich und außerordentlich hilfreich
    Sehr beeindruckende…

    Sep 14, 2024
    Edlen S
    Best of Himeji
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Had an awesome and fun experience with Nishi.…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Ikebukuro Station & Takeshita Street

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Ikebukuro Station & Takeshita Street

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet @MIMARU Tokyo Ikebukuro
    • 10:20 Ikebukuro Station
    • 11:00 Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Tourist Center, Nakamise
    • 12:20 Asakusa Station
    • 13:00 Meiji-jingumae Station
    • 13:10 Meiji Jingu
    • 13:20 Takeshita Street
    • 14:00 Disband @Ura-Harajuku

    Title: What's a Private Family Tour of Asakusa and Harajuku in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. They wanted to see historic Asakusa as well as places like Harajuku that younger members of the group would enjoy, so I gave a brief explanation in front of the large torii gate at Meiji Shrine to make it easier for the group to explore on their own later, and then we headed to Takeshita Street. The weather improved more than expected and it became hot, so some of the guests grew tired, but a cool 30-minute train ride and the lively atmosphere of Takeshita Street quickly revived everyone's energy, which was a relief. At one guest's request to see fashionable clothing, I also guided the group through the Ura-Harajuku area, and we ended the tour at a ramen restaurant in the neighborhood that I had recommended. With a carefully selected plan based on everyone's wishes, I was able to bring the tour to a happy conclusion for all. This private tour was arranged through [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is a winner of the Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainIkebukuro Station～Ueno Station180JPY
    Section 2SubwayUeno Station～Asakusa Station180JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa Station～Meiji-jingumae Station260JPY
    Total620JPY

    Tour Report by Lily

    Hi there! Thank you so much for hitting my page!
    I’m Yuriko, but please call me Lily!
    I’m a qualified guide and interpreter, proud to be awarded as one of the finalists of Japan guide awards 2025.

    I have conducted over 100 tours a year since March 2024, with more than 90% of my clients awarding a five-star rating.

    I love Japanese food(eating and cooking!), cultures such as traditional arts and crafts, and so much more! I’ve always explored places seeking new things and love to share them with you.

    I was born and raised in Tokyo(for over 40 years!) but used to live in the U.S. for a couple of years as a child.
    I am proud to be able to introduce the charms of Japan from multiple perspectives based on my experience of interacting with people from many different nationalities.

    I am happy to tailor an original plan or to arrange your bucket list advancing it to a better option.
    The following is my contact information:
    lilyjapanguide@gmail.com

    I’m looking forward to guiding and sharing the excitement of Japan!!

    Request Booking

    Sep 17, 2025
    785hongc
    Wonderful 6 hour Tokyo tour with Lily in September
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a…

    Sep 16, 2025
    H
    Hong_C
    A wonderful day tour of Tokyo in September
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best relaxed educational…

    Jul 18, 2025
    Venture26940872209
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lilly was an excellent guide .. lots of communication before the visit…

    Jul 1, 2025
    michaellG938KC
    Lily is the best. Highly recommended
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lily is an amazing guide and…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel
    • 9:40 Tsukiji Market, Namiyoke Shrine
    • 11:20 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, Sensoji Temple
    • 12:10 Lunch @ Isomaru Suisan
    • 13:20 Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Statue of Kusunoki Masashige
    • 14:20 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:00 Dismissal @ Meiji-jingumae

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a quiet group from Oceania. Until just before the tour, all email correspondence had gone through an agency, and although I had asked for a personal email address, it turned out to be a company address, so we were never able to communicate directly beforehand. We could not find each other in the hotel lobby, and when I called, they said they were waiting at the entrance where taxis arrive. Since I had heard the guests enjoyed alcohol, I recommended a sake tasting flight at the Tsukiji fish market, which they happily enjoyed. At Sensoji Temple, they purchased an amulet for having their wishes granted. For lunch, some of the guests wanted sashimi while others preferred something different, so I took them to a seafood restaurant, where they enjoyed a sashimi set meal, isobe-age, and wine. They watched with great interest as squid and fish were grilled at other tables, and mentioned that using such stoves in restaurants is prohibited in their home region. The afternoon was hotter than expected, so the Imperial Palace was a bit challenging, but we were able to visit many places within our time and the guests were pleased. Since they chose to take a taxi back to their accommodation, I saw them into a taxi at Meiji Jingumae, and we parted ways. Using the Toei subway lines raises the fare, but to prioritize time we used the Toei lines partway as well.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTochomae～Tsukiji Market280JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji～Asakusa290JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa～Kasumigaseki290JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijubashimae～Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Total1,070JPY

    Tour Report by Takako

    Hello!! I’m Takako. Thank you for seeing my page. I’ve been showing guests around Tokyo, Yokohama and Kamakura for over seven years. There are various things from historic sites, shrines and temples to cultural spots, good restaurants and anime shops in Japan.
    I love watching sumo wrestling, Japanese traditional sport.
    My favorite place is Tsukiji food market. It’s really exciting and you can enjoy a variety of delicious foods.
    I also like visiting Japanese gardens such as Hama-rikyu Gardens and Rikugien Gardens.
    Please let me know what interests you.
    I would be happy to make a suitable tour for you and help you stay in Japan comfortably.
    Looking forward to meeting you!!

    Request Booking

    Sep 30, 2026
    16shelleyb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Great day in Toyko
    Four of us spent an…

    Sep 29, 2026
    982marvf
    Yokohama Experience
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Takako is an outstanding tour guide who knows Yokohama…

    Sep 24, 2026
    marshad422
    A great day of seeing so much and gaining knowledge of the historical and spiritual meaning to the places visited.
    Tripadvisor…

    Sep 18, 2026
    7
    770stefanieg
    Wonderful, personalized tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Takako, our guide…