Category: Uncategorized

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Owakudani & Hakone Pirate Ship

    Kanagawa in One Day: Owakudani & Hakone Pirate Ship

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Gora Station
    • 9:30 Owakudani
    • 10:10 Hakone Pirate Ship
    • 11:00 From Motohakone Port to the Ultra Deep Forest Museum
    • 13:45 Tour ends at Gora Station

    What's a Private Hakone Day Tour Like from Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. On this occasion, some of the group took part in the tour. They had visited Japan many times before and said it was one of their favorite countries. This time they came to give a younger member of the group the chance to experience a different culture. They had already traveled to Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara, and Hakone was the next stop. However, since they had to leave their hotel by 2:30 for a shuttle bus, the tour was shortened accordingly. They especially wanted to see Owakudani and the pirate ship, so the tour focused on these places. At Owakudani, they were delighted to try the famous "black eggs" they had heard about, but unfortunately Mount Fuji was hidden by the cloudy sky, which they found disappointing. The pirate ship was one of the experiences the group had been looking forward to, but unfortunately the temperature was low due to the high altitude, so they could not enjoy the scenery on the deck for very long, which was a shame. Finally, we stopped by the Hakone Open-Air Museum and ended the tour at Gora Station.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOdawara Station～Odawara Station6,000JPY
    Total6,000JPY

    Tour Report by Atsushi

    Hello and welcome to Tokyo!

    I have been working for business with American companies for many years. I have many experiences guiding customers from around the world in Japan and taking Japanese customers to the USA and Europe.

    I now have a national license as a guiding interpreter, and I want to introduce the unique gigantic city of Tokyo and the traditional Japanese culture, which is not shown in the guidebooks, to people worldwide who are interested in it. In addition, I want to introduce various Japanese foods you can enjoy only in Japan.
    Unique experiences such as the Sumo Training Viewing and Tea Ceremony are optionally available.
    Depending on your preference and itinerary, I can guide you in Tokyo, Kamakura, and Hakone so that you can enjoy your time in Japan.

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    Aug 18, 2026
    Heather_C
    Private tour for 4 in Tokyo – highly recommend
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide…

    Aug 8, 2026
    victoriahD2588SK
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    An action packed visit to Hakone!
    Atsushi was an…

    Jul 26, 2026
    Kevin_B
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Highly recommend this tour for first time…

    Jun 22, 2026
    Ashish_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best Tour for a Short Visit
    Atsushi-san was an incredibly well-researched and…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1000 Aloft Ginza
    • 1030-1150 Meiji Shrine
    • 1200-1320 Lunch and Nijubashi
    • 1350-1440 Asakusa
    • 1510-1600 Hamarikuy garden

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine and Sensoji The guests were a group visiting from North America who joined up in Japan after arriving on separate flights, one of which had been delayed by seven hours. One of the guests had stayed near the Kasumigaseki area of Tokyo for a few months about thirty years ago, and they reminisced about how, in the Japan of that era, tea was served in offices and there were staff who pushed passengers onto crowded trains. Since a family member of one of the guests was undergoing treatment for cancer, they purchased a charm and an ema votive tablet at Meiji Shrine and drew an omikuji fortune. For lunch, they chose the miso-marinated grilled mackerel set meal at a restaurant near the Imperial Palace. At Sensoji Temple, one of the guests asked, "How is it possible to make a replica of a hidden Buddhist statue that not even the most senior monks are allowed to see?" I explained that it was created based on past memories, records, and imagination. When they asked whether I was a Buddhist or a follower of Shinto, I answered that most Japanese people pray to both the kami and the Buddha in difficult times, so I do not think I can say which one I belong to. When I asked whether the agency could use the photos taken that day for promotional purposes, they laughed and kindly agreed, saying they doubted anyone would want to use photos of people like themselves.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Ginza～Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 3SubwaySakuradamon～Asakusa520JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa～Shiodome220JPY
    Total1,160JPY

    Tour Report by Lance

    I have been working as a tour guide once a week since 2024.
    I grew up in Osaka and studied in Kyoto,
    I have been working for the lvestock division of the national organization of agricultural cooperatives.
    Japan depends on imports for most of its livestock feed ingredients.
    I visited 10 countries on business and stayed in New Orleans working for a subsidiary company for 3 years.
    I visited 10 other countries with my wife for sightseeing.
    I also started writing Haiku, Japanese traditional poem, after retiring.
    One of my favorite is ” Bundled up, you are like a Matryoshka.”
    Looking forward to see you!

    Request Booking

    Sep 24, 2026
    benoitlJ9021HN
    Perfect guide tour in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Lance was very nice…

    Sep 19, 2026
    H1282JBkarinas
    Great tour with Lance from Japan Guide Agency!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Lance our tour…

    Sep 10, 2026
    Silver_F
    amazing 8-hour walking tour with Lance!
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Lance was our…

    Jul 4, 2026
    317roxaneh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great time in Tokyo!
    We had a great day with Lance! He…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 AM – Met the guests at Hotel Tokyo.
    • 08:00–08:30
    • Walked from Hotel Tokyo to Meiji Shrine.
    • 08:30–09:00
    • Visited Meiji Shrine.
    • 09:00–09:30
    • Took the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line from Meiji-Jingumae Station to Nijubashimae Station.
    • 09:30–10:00
    • Visited the Imperial Palace Outer Gardens, Marunouchi, and Tokyo Station area.
    • 10:00–10:15
    • Took the JR Yamanote Line from Tokyo Station to Ueno Station.
    • 10:15–11:00
    • Visited Tokyo National Museum.
    • 11:10–11:50
    • Lunch at Gyukatsu Motomura near Ueno Station.
    • 11:50–12:00
    • Took the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line from Ueno Station to Tawaramachi Station.
    • 12:00–12:40
    • Visited Senso-ji Temple.
    • 12:40–13:15
    • Took the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line from Asakusa Station to Shibuya Station.
    • 13:30
    • Visited the Pokémon Center at Shibuya PARCO.
    • Tour finished at Shibuya PARCO.

    What's a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour with a Licensed Guide Like? A Guide's Report The tour started at 8:00 in the morning, so Meiji Shrine was relatively empty, allowing me to guide in a calm and peaceful atmosphere. The subway ride was also smooth since the morning rush had settled, and overall we were able to move around efficiently. On that day, the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace were closed, so after guiding the guests mainly around the Imperial Palace Outer Garden and the Marunouchi area, we moved on to Ueno. This was my first time incorporating the Tokyo National Museum into a tour course, but we were able to view the main exhibits centered on the Main Building in about one hour. The guests showed a strong interest in Japanese history and culture, and one of the guests in particular enthusiastically took photos while viewing the exhibits. I believe it was a great opportunity to experience Japanese history and culture. We had an early lunch near Ueno Station. Since it was still early, the restaurant was not crowded and we were able to use it smoothly. After that, we took the Ginza Line to Asakusa and I guided the guests around Senso-ji Temple. The overall pace was faster than originally planned, and by the time we arrived in Asakusa we had about one hour of extra time. I had anticipated the possibility of visiting Tokyo Skytree after the tour, but since the guests told me they planned to visit Skytree on another day, we discussed how to spend the remaining time. Having heard that one of the guests was interested in Pokemon, I suggested the Pokemon Center inside Shibuya PARCO, and since the guests wished to go, we moved to Shibuya. As the guests said they would explore the Pokemon Center on their own, the tour ended at Shibuya PARCO. The tour was scheduled to end at 14:00, but at the guests' request it ended around 13:30. The guests on this occasion were visiting from Europe. Initially I considered how to travel from the Hotel to Meiji Shrine, but I judged that walking would be more efficient than taking a train or bus, so we walked directly from the Hotel. The guests had plenty of stamina and said they exercise regularly, so they had no trouble and enjoyed the longer walk. As a result, the route from Nishi-Shinjuku through Meiji Shrine and toward Harajuku made for a good start to the tour. One of the guests had stayed in Japan for a trip about a decade earlier, and this time they came to Japan together as a group. In talking with them, I was impressed by the educational value they placed on giving children the chance to experience other countries and cultures from a young age. The guests were both very calm and polite, and we were able to proceed through the tour in a relaxed atmosphere throughout. During the tour I actively helped take photos using the guests' smartphone, and they seemed pleased with that as well. Overall, I was able to guide flexibly in response to changes in plans while tailoring the content to the guests' interests, and I believe it turned out to be a highly satisfying tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayMeiji-Jingumae Station／Shibuya-ku, Tokyo～Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 2TrainTokyo～Ueno200JPY
    Section 3SubwayUeno～Tawaramachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa～Shibuya260JPY
    Total850JPY

    Tour Report by HelloTakeshi

    Hello, my name is Takeshi. I am a national government licensed guide interpreter with over 35 years of professional experience in Japan. Through my long career, I have developed a deep understanding of modern Japan, including its business culture, social customs, and everyday life. Originally from Kobe, I have lived in more than 20 places across Japan and the United States, which has given me a broad and flexible perspective on regional cultures and lifestyles. I am also deeply interested in historical Japan, especially Japanese religion and Buddhism, and I enjoy sharing cultural background in an easy-to-understand way. I am looking forward to meeting you and exploring Japan together.

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    Sep 25, 2026
    olivier_F
    Enrichissante visite
    Viator review: Tsukiji & Toyosu Market Local Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Une visite très enrichissante que je conseille…

    Sep 13, 2026
    710anhc
    Tokyo Tour .
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Takeshi is very friendly and kind,…

    Aug 26, 2026
    N
    nahomiep824
    Takeshi, Our Tour Guide, Made All The Difference!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    My visit…

    Aug 5, 2026
    xanthyh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Expert tour guide
    Takeshi is an outstanding guide whose…

  • Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle & Shinsekai

    Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle & Shinsekai

    Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet @ Fraser Residence Nankai Osaka
    • 10:50-12:45 @ Osaka Castle
    • 13:15-13:55 @ Shitennoji Temple
    • 14:15-14:20 @ Harukas Garden
    • 14:50-15:30 @ Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
    • 16:10-16:30 @ Shinsekai
    • 16:45 Dismiss @ Fraser Residence Nankai Osaka

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Osaka Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. This was the first day of a longer trip through Japan and other parts of Asia. The tour thoroughly covered Osaka Castle, Shitennoji Temple, Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, and Shinsekai without any breaks. The planning, stamp collecting, and photography were all led carefully by one of the guests, and as someone who enjoys photography myself, I was happy to take photos of the group, which pleased them greatly. At Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, it was heartwarming to see one of the guests collecting the "Godairiki" stones and purchasing a charm pouch to hold them. It was a tour filled with a calm and peaceful atmosphere from beginning to end.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNamba (Subway)～Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 3TrainTennoji-ekimae～Sumiyoshitorii-mae240JPY
    Section 4TrainSumiyoshi Taisha～Shin-Imamiya240JPY
    Section 5SubwayEbisucho～Namba (Subway)190JPY
    Total1,100JPY

    Tour Report by Sachiko

    I’m Sahiko Ogura, Sachiko literally means ‘happy child’, please call me Sachiko or Sachi for short. I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been guide for 6 years mainly in Osaka, Kyoto and Nara after having worked far trading company. I love traveling and visited about 30 countries, where I had a great time and experienced something new and exciting. I also like sports, tea ceremony and gardening, I’m growing veritable and flower in my garden. Please let me know your interest and anything what you would like to do during your tour. I’m happy to make an itinerary customized for you.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you and exploring in my home town!

    Request Booking

    Sep 26, 2026
    Y
    yolanda552
    Sachiko the best tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Sachiko was our tour guide…

    Sep 9, 2026
    peteraI5718XP
    My First Visit to Osaka
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    I enjoyed seeing Osaka through Sachiko’s…

    Sep 4, 2026
    S
    satchithh
    Hasabnis family
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sachiko or Choko Ogura is a…

    Aug 3, 2026
    G6602NEeduardoa
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Osaka Tour with Sachiko
    We had a great Osaka…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1000 Hotel Premier Asakusa (10 min from Metro Asakusa Station)　Senso-ji Temple　Asakusa Shrine　Nakamise　Kaminarimon
    • 1125 Tsukiji Outer Market　Kabuki-za Theatre　Ginza 4-chome Intersection
    • 1300 Shibuya　Hachiko Statue　Scramble Crossing
    • 1325 Harajuku　Takeshita Street　Meiji Shrine Visit
    • 1515 Imperial Palace Outer Garden　Tatsumi Turret　Gyoko-dori Avenue　Tokyo Station
    • 1600 Board the Ginza Line at Kanda Station and disband

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania who had arrived in Japan the previous night, having spent two days in Asia beforehand. They planned to stay in Tokyo for a few days, including a trip to Mount Fuji, and afterwards to travel around Takayama, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. For this tour, a travel agency was involved as an intermediary, and since there had been no response from the guests beforehand, I had been somewhat concerned. After meeting them, I gathered that this was likely because the person handling the arrangements was not very familiar with IT. Since the itinerary had basically been left entirely to the travel agency, I believe they were a little puzzled that my tour was to be organized according to the guests' own requests. However, everything turned out well: at Tsukiji they enjoyed scallops, and they also enjoyed Shibuya and Takeshita Street. The plan had included only the outer gardens of the Imperial Palace, but after I explained, they decided to visit the East Gardens on Sunday.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa～Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 2SubwayGinza～Shibuya210JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya～Harajuku160JPY
    Section 4SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 5TrainTokyo～Kanda (Tokyo)160JPY
    Total950JPY

    Tour Report by Ted

    I had worked in the international business scene for over 40 years and traveled to North America and European countries over 1000 days.
    After I retired from the business, I traveled to most of the major sightseeing spots in all 47 prefectures in Japan.

    My guide is starting from a brief history of the site where I am going to guide. I usually add a briefing about Japanese culture based on religions, such as Shinto Shrine and Buddhist temples. A geographic background behind the history is also important.
    My course includes 4 to 5 (in 6 hours) sites from the following depending on where I will pick the guests up;
    – Senso ji Temple
    – Kappabashi Kitchenware Market
    – Tokyo Skytree
    – Ueno Park
    – Nezu Shrine
    – Imperial Palace outer park
    – Tokyo Central Station, Marunouchi historic district
    – Tsukiji Fish Market
    – Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    – Ginza
    – Odaiba
    – Hama Rikyu Garden
    – Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
    – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
    – Roppongi
    – Meiji Shrine
    – Harajuku & Takeshita Street
    – Shibuya
    – and Any of your interest.

    I am happy to introduce Japanese Manga/Anime cultures such as Akihabara, Nakano Broadway and Ghibli related sites.
    Travelling along the JR central line where guests can stopover at major animation studios (it is not accepted to visit the inside). The majority of animation studios such as TMS Entertainment, SUNRISE, A1 Pictures etc. are located in this area. Suginami Animation museum, Studio Ghibli and Ghibli Museum are also located.
    Guests can feel old houses in the Spirited Away scene in the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.

    I can also provide a pilgrimage to the sacred place (shooting location) for the Shinkai Makoto animation movies such as Your name, Weathering with you, and Suzume.

    Another interesting feature is to visit authentic Japanese style pub meals such as Yakitori, Karaage, and Sushi etc.
    Asakusa Hoppy Street, Ameyoko Street, Yurakucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku Golden gai, Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho are nice to visit.

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

    In addition to the above, I am available in the neighboring cities.

    Kawagoe is an old town developed in the 17th century. It has very close relationship with the Edo central government. Kawagoe castle ruins, Kitain temple and 500 Buddha statues will welcome the guests.
    These areas are renovated and provide an old days atmosphere.
    Japanese style sweets food stands will fascinate the guests.
    Kawagoe is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    Kamakura is the first Samurai worriers government established in the late 12th century.
    The Buddhism are introduced to Japan in the 6th century, and flourished at Nara and Kyoto later. A newer Buddhism sect such as Zen has well developed at Kamakura area.
    Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Gigantic Buddha statue at Kotokuin Temple and the flower temple Hasedera Temple are must-see.
    Kamakura is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    I am also happy to develop any other site the guests have interest.

    Request Booking

    Sep 24, 2026
    Leslie_R
    Good tour on first day
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Ted, our guide was…

    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

    Jun 26, 2026
    ann r
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Educational with kind, generous guide
    My teenage sons and I learned…

    Jun 14, 2026
    141yunb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
    We…

  • Kyoto: Kyoto Imperial Palace & Pokemon Center

    Kyoto: Kyoto Imperial Palace & Pokemon Center

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30. HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO
    • 19:35-11:15. Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 11:40-12:20 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 12:30-13:10 Lunch
    • 13:40-14:10 Sanjusangendo
    • 14:30-15:00 Nintendo Shop
    • 15:10-15:30 Nishiki Market
    • 15:45-16:15 Pokemon Center
    • 16:30 HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji, the Imperial Palace, and Nishiki Market The guests were a group visiting from North America. As a small gift, I gave them a folding fan from a 100-yen shop, which they were delighted to receive. We had a wonderful, cheerful atmosphere throughout the day, and at Kinkaku-ji a tossed coin even landed in the offering bowl. At the Imperial Palace, the guests listened attentively to my explanations, and at Kinkaku-ji there was a very fortunate moment as well. They were very pleased when we had lunch at a nearby conveyor-belt sushi restaurant. At Sanjusangen-do they also listened closely to my explanations and watched with great interest as a monk wrote a goshuin. We then shopped at the Nintendo store, bought honey at Nishiki Market, spent about 30 minutes shopping at the Pokémon Center, and returned to the hotel. Everyone had an enjoyable time and were very happy with the day.

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

    Request Booking

    Sep 29, 2026
    H1282JBkarinas
    Customizable tour with Harumi-san
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing tour with Harumi…

    Sep 28, 2026
    Coastal07335209891
    Kobe Delight with Harumi
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our tour was definitely customized and our…

    Sep 27, 2026
    kakeelma
    Learning is fun with Harumi san!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    My husband and I…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Cosmopolitan580857
    We had a great time! Kyoto is a beautiful city.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide…

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00　Meet at Odawara Station　Travel by mountain railway
    • 12:20　Arrive at Owakudani　After sightseeing, travel to Togendai
    • 13:30　Take a taxi to Hakone Shrine
    • 14:30　After the visit, have lunch at a bakery in Moto-Hakone
    • 15:00　Take a taxi to Odawara Station
    • 16:00　After arrival, guide you shopping and part ways at the Shinkansen exit

    What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour Like from Odawara? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time. Unlike a more relaxed pace elsewhere, making their way to Odawara on their own by transferring through crowded Tokyo trains seemed to be quite challenging for them. Since traveling for a long time without a secured seat can be even more tiring, we sometimes let one mountain train or cable car go and took the next one. As the guests also preferred a relaxed pace, I believe I was able to keep the strain to a minimum. One of the guests took a little longer to walk, so by using a taxi they were still able to see Hakone Shrine, and others were pleased to be able to buy souvenirs along the way at various stops. Although time was limited, the guests appeared to thoroughly enjoy the beautiful nature of Hakone.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOdawara～Gora770JPY
    Section 2TrainGora～Sounzan430JPY
    Section 3OtherSounzan～Togendai2,000JPY
    Total3,200JPY

    Tour Report by Naho

    Hi, I’m Naho – your friendly, English-speaking guide in Japan!
    With over 10 years of experience as a licensed guide and more than 30 years living in the Tokyo area, I’m passionate about helping travelers of all ages enjoy Japan in a fun, meaningful, and stress-free way.

    Whether you’re into ancient temples, seasonal nature, local street food, or modern pop culture, I’ll design a private tour that matches your interests and travel style. I love sharing not just the famous sights, but also lesser-known hidden gems and local tips that make your trip truly special.

    Traveling solo, as a couple, with friends, or with kids? I’ll make sure everyone feels comfortable and included. My goal is to create a warm, welcoming experience and unforgettable memories for you in this amazing country.

    Let’s explore Japan together — I can’t wait to meet you!

    Request Booking

    May 27, 2026
    Chris T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo with Naho!
    We had a great time exploring the in…

    Apr 24, 2026
    Megaso1970
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour
    The tour was nicely planned and Naho is very nice and friendly.

    Apr 9, 2026
    B4204QCcarolc
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Once in a lifetime experience!
    I want to express are…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Dee R
    Great guided tour of notable Tokyo sites and experienced all modes of transportation with the great help of our guide…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Higashiyama Area

    Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Higashiyama Area

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ Hotel Residence Kyoto Nijo Castle
    • 9:10-10:10 @ Nijo Castle
    • 10:40-11:45 @ Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 12:25-13:15 @ Gion
    • 13:20-13:50 Lunch @ "Ramen Kyo" Gion Main Store
    • 13:50-14:50 @ Higashiyama Area
    • 15:00 Disband @ In front of Kennin-ji Temple Reception Entrance

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Kyoto Like With a Licensed Guide? A JGA Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. They were traveling during a summer break and mentioned that they were about a week into a longer stay in Japan. One of the guests was knowledgeable about architecture and was familiar with Japanese architect Tadao Ando. We decided to start our walk from Nijo Castle, as it was the closest to the meeting-point hotel. Nijo Castle was not very crowded, making it easy to visit. At the Ninomaru Palace, I handed out my own binoculars, and the guests took turns enjoying views of the fusuma paintings and other details through them. At the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the guests showed interest in the calendar of annual imperial ceremonies. In Gion, it was memorable how one of the guests asked many questions about the geisha districts. After exploring Gion, we had lunch at the main Gion branch of a ramen restaurant. In the Higashiyama area, I guided them from Yasaka Shrine through Ishibei-koji and Ninenzaka to the Yasaka Pagoda. Finally, I guided them to Kenninji Temple, and we parted ways in front of the reception entrance.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNijojo-mae～Imadegawa220JPY
    Section 2BusKarasuma Imadegawa (Subway Imadegawa Station) / Kyoto City Bus～Shijo Keihan-mae / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total450JPY

    Tour Report by Kaz

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

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

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

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

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 14:00 Meet at Kyoto Station　14:35 Adashino Nenbutsu-ji　　16:00 Kinkaku-ji　　17:58 Kiyomizu-dera 18:40 Fushimi Inari　19:40 Tour ends

    What's a Private Afternoon Kyoto Temple Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report from Kyoto Station The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. In the morning they had visited the Nintendo Museum in Ogura, Uji, so we met at Kyoto Station at 2:00 PM. I had assumed they would arrive by JR, but they had used the Kintetsu Line, as the museum is close to Kintetsu Ogura Station. A major challenge was making it in time before the closing hours of Kinkaku-ji and Kiyomizu-dera. We managed to enter Kinkaku-ji at 4:00, but arrived at Kiyomizu-dera just two minutes before closing. By using taxis for the round trip from Saga-Arashiyama Station to Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, from Higashiyama-Sanjo to Kiyomizu-dera, and from Kiyomizu-dera to Fushimi Inari, we somehow made it in time, though it turned out to be quite a rushed tour. Fushimi Inari, the final stop, has no closing time and is open all day, so I was finally able to guide at a relaxed pace. I took a photo at Kinkaku-ji, but because it was taken in a hurry, one of the guests was not fully captured in the frame. At Adashino, Kinkaku-ji, and Kiyomizu-dera, I had to significantly shorten my guidance. I led the guests to a food court near Fushimi Inari, where the tour concluded.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 2TrainSaga-Arashiyama～Enmachi180JPY
    Section 3OtherEnmachi～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 4OtherKinkakuji-michi／Kyoto City Bus～Nishioji-Oike230JPY
    Section 5OtherNishioji-Oike～Higashiyama260JPY
    Total1,140JPY

    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…

  • Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. Gather at 11:00 @ In front of the central ticket gate at JR Sannomiya Station
    • 2. 11:20 @ Ikuta Shrine
    • 3. 12:00 @ Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden
    • 4. 14:30 @ Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum
    • 5. Disband at 16:00 @ JR Sumiyoshi Station

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Kobe Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. We met at JR Sannomiya Station and visited Ikuta Shrine, the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, and the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum, ending the tour at JR Sumiyoshi Station. Because this tour was confirmed only two days in advance and the meeting point had not been decided, there was little time to prepare, so the destinations were decided after meeting the guests. The weather today was good (although a little hot), and the guests walked comfortably, which made for a very pleasant tour. Although it ran a little long, I believe the guests enjoyed the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherKobe Municipal Subway Seishin-Yamate Line (Sannomiya (Kobe Municipal)～Shin-Kobe)110JPY
    Section 2OtherKobe Municipal Subway Seishin-Yamate Line (Shin-Kobe～Sannomiya (Kobe Municipal))110JPY
    Section 3TrainSannomiya～Sumiyoshi (Hyogo Prefecture / Tokaido)200JPY
    Total420JPY

    Tour Report by Norio

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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