Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Tatsumi Bridge & Nishiki Market

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Tatsumi Bridge & Nishiki Market

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel
    • 10:30　Around Tatsumi Bridge
    • 11:00　Kagai Art Museum
    • 12:00　Nishiki Market ＞ Kyogoku Shopping Street
    • 13:00　Tour ends at UNIQLO Kawaramachi

    What's a Rainy-Day Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from Europe. Originally, the plan was to start at Kiyomizu-dera Temple and walk down through the Higashiyama area, but the guests indicated they did not want to see any more temples. Since it was raining, I had also hoped to take them to places such as the Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts, but they were not particularly interested in that either, so we visited a museum in Gion. Even there, they seemed unsure about whether to go in, but I encouraged them to enter, as there were few other options available. Afterwards, the guests said they wanted to do some shopping, so we took a taxi to the Karasuma entrance of Nishiki Market and made our way toward the Kyogoku shopping arcade. Finally, they asked me to take them to UNIQLO, so I brought them there and concluded the tour. They still seemed to be experiencing some jet lag.

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

    Tour Report by Mimmy

    Bye bye smart phone!! Let’s enjoy Japan without bothering to check up your phone all the time with not AI but a local guide like me. Hi, my name is Mimmy. You may think this sounds like a kitten’s name.
    I use this nickname because it sounds cute and easy to remember. However,
    I actually look rounded, a middle aged woman more like a yellow character of M&Mchocolate, which reminds you of my name easily when you see me.
    I was born in Osaka, went to school in Kobe, went to work in Kyoto and married but still live in Osaka. I am a local, native Osakan. My 3 children are all grown up and live separately except one son. Now I live with one son and a husband in suburbs of the Osaka city.
    I like travelling, walking around the town and anything new.
    I got my guide license in 2017 and started guiding after that. I wasn’t able to work during Covid period but start guiding in 2022 again. I guide Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Kobe and have experienced more than100 tours including bus tours.
    I would like to tell you about the itineraries I usually have in each area.
    In Osaka, we usually go to Osaka castle, Shinsekai and Dotonbori Namba area.
    I think most important part you should see is Dotonbori Namba in Osaka.
    This place is vibrant , energetic, full of 3D signs and different from any other place in Japan.
    In Kyoto, we cannot see all famous sightseeing spots in one day.
    It will be better to visit each area respectively. I recommend guests who come to Kyoto first time to visit East area, Kiyomizu Temple>Sannenzaka>Ninenzaka>Ishibeikouji>Yasaka shrine> Gion area. This area has an atmosphere of traditional old Kyoto. The most Kyoto like places which suit Kimono. You can rent Kimono in a lot of places around here.
    The second place I recommend you is West area: Golden temple and Arashiyama area where Bamboo forest , Tenryuji temple, mountains and a river. There are several nice gardens in this area. If you want to enjoy the nature quietly, you
    should come here when it is not crowded (Winter is the most quiet)
    In Nara which used to be a capital even older than Kyoto, we visit Todaiji Temple where a huge Buddha is sitting inside of one of the largest wooden hall and you can play with deer everywhere in Nara. Naramachi: a small town in this area is a local place where small interesting shops are.
    In Kobe, a port city, you can visit Japanese Sake breweries, Herb garden and the top of Mt.Rokko for viewing Kobe city. A small China town is there, too.

    Now I bet you want to leave home to explore somewhere else you do not know.
    Not only going to somewhere else, we can help you to do several experiences: making tea, making Japanese sweet, making Takoyaki(food), wearing Kimono, making food samples, attending a tea ceremony, throwing Shriken like Ninja, Using bow and arrow like Samurai, , , ,
    I am very happy indeed if I can help you find things impressive enough and have once in a life time experience during our tour.
    I am looking forward to sharing a good time with you.

    Request Booking

    Mar 24, 2025
    Jennie_N
    Ask for Mimmy
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A must if visiting the first time. Will save…

    Mar 15, 2025
    Eric B
    Wonderful Osaka castle and tour
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mimmy was a wonderful…

    Mar 12, 2025
    williampP2709MA
    Amazing time in Osaka with Mimmy
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mimmy was an amazing tour guide!…

    Oct 30, 2024
    Niaz_M
    Great choice if you have limited time in Kyoto
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a…

  • Hyogo: Osaka-Umeda to Uozaki & Sawanotsuru Museum

    Hyogo: Osaka-Umeda to Uozaki & Sawanotsuru Museum

    Nada Sake Breweries Kobe Local Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:15 Gather at the lobby of The Westin Osaka
    • 9:50- 10:14 Osaka-Umeda to Uozaki (Hanshin Electric Railway)
    • 10:15-10:40 Sakuramasamune Memorial Museum
    • 10:45-11:15 Hamafukutsuru Ginjo Kobo
    • 11:30-12:10 Kikumasamune Sake Brewing Museum
    • 12:20-12:40 Hakutsuru Sake Brewing Museum
    • 12:49-12:59 Sumiyoshi to Shinzaike (Hanshin Electric Railway)
    • 13:10-14:15 Lunch @ Kobe Steak Miyabi
    • 14:29-14:30 Shinzaike to Oishi (Hanshin Electric Railway)
    • 14:45-15:05 Sawanotsuru Museum
    • 15:15 Disband in front of Hanshin Oishi Station

    What Is a Private Sake Brewery Tour in Kobe Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They were very pleasant, and although I had worried that visiting one sake brewery after another might become tiring, they thoroughly enjoyed the brewery tours and tastings from start to finish. Because some of the guests were younger, they could not join the barrel sake and cup tour at Kikumasamune, but even so, at Kikumasamune they were shown an English video and the staff spoke with them about various things, so they said Kikumasamune was their favorite. They were delighted with the Kobe beef lunch, saying it was the most delicious meat they had ever eaten. Since I do not eat much meat myself, I was treated to a wonderful seafood lunch instead. At the end, they even gave me a tip.

    Click here for more details: Nada Sake Breweries Kobe Local Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOsaka-Umeda～Uozaki300JPY
    Section 2TrainSumiyoshi～Shinzaike160JPY
    Section 3TrainShinzaike～Oishi160JPY
    Total620JPY

    Tour Report by Yumiko

    Welcome to Japan! I’m Yumiko. I’ll be your guide.
    I’m from Kakogawa, a small city located in Hyogo Prefecture. Since it’s located near Himeji and my grandparents used to live in Himeji, I like showing my guests around places in Himeji, especially Himeji Castle and Mt. Shosha – Engyoji Temple. I’ve also lived in Osaka for about 10 years, so Osaka is also my favorite place. I’m familiar with Kobe as well, so it’s also a great pleasure to show you around these areas. I like traveling, reading, and of course, tour guiding. It’s great to see people from all over the place while living in Japan. I’d love to share Japanese history, culture, and food with you. I’m also looking forward to learning about your country – about your culture, history, and food. I’m looking forward to seeing you in Japan!

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    Apr 7, 2025
    VHerzberg
    A wonderful Himeji castle tour with Yumiko
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The Himeji castle tour was…

    Apr 1, 2025
    Sightseer39112583641
    Yumiko is the best
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yumiko was such an amazing and sweet guide!!…

    Jul 12, 2024
    jennarD7008EA
    A MUST DO in Kobe!!! Amazing Sake Tour and Kobe Beef Lunch with Yumiko
    Tripadvisor review: Exploring Nada Sake Breweries Kobe…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1000 Mimaru Tokyo Asakusa Station（1 min from Ginza Line Asakusa Station）Meet
    • 1135 Suehirocho～Akihabara
    • 1220 Tsukiji Outer Market, lunch at Suizanmai Annex ～ Kabukiza ～ Ginza 4-chome intersection
    • 1420 Shibuya, Hachiko Statue, Scramble Crossing, explaining Parco and 109
    • 1430 Dismissal

    Title: What's a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, and Shibuya Body: [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guided a private tour in Tokyo for a group from Europe visiting Japan for the first time. The guests had arrived the previous night and had visited Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa on their own, but they had not fully understood it, so I gave them my usual explanation, and they were each satisfied and convinced. One of the guests was very curious about the strawberry candy (ichigo ame) and enjoyed eating it. Another guest was interested in the restaurants visible along the street, so I explained places such as Fujisoba, Matsuya, and Hidakaya. Among the shops I explained along Nakamise, they showed interest in Sakai Kokodo Santo and Kurodaya Honten, and said they would return to visit them tonight or tomorrow. The guests were not particularly interested in anime-related items, though some in the group enjoyed it more than others. At Tsukiji, although they mentioned having eaten sushi the previous night as well, we ended up having sushi for lunch. They pointed out that the salmon and mackerel likely came from their home region, which they said is an important industry there. The group would be staying in Tokyo for about five days and then traveling to Takayama, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. I let them know about the travel concierge at Shibuya Station, and they planned to buy the above train tickets there on their way back today. One of the guests wanted "KAWAII" clothes, so I introduced 109 and some other shops, and then we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa～Suehirocho178JPY
    Section 2SubwayAkihabara～Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 3SubwayGinza～Shibuya209JPY
    Total565JPY

    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.

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    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 Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up @Hotel Granvia Kyoto
    • 2.10:40 @Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 3.11:45 @Nijo Castle
    • 4. 12:55 @Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 5. 13:50 Buy lunch @7-Eleven Oike Higashinotoin
    • 6.14:15@ Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 7.15:50 Disband @Gion Antique Shop Street

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. For the itinerary, it was difficult to hear their wishes in advance, but two days before the tour they requested many locations. In addition to the above, they hoped to visit Fushimi Inari Taisha and even Nara. When I explained that we could not fit so many places into a single 6-hour day, it turned out they had mistakenly assumed I would also be their guide the following day. One of the guests had visited Japan once before, five years earlier, while it was the other's first time in Japan. It rained at first, but the weather improved and turned to cloudy skies. Since they wanted to buy lunch at a convenience store, after touring the Imperial Palace grounds I took them to a Seven-Eleven facing Oike-dori. At the end, one of the guests wanted to buy something antique, so with the driver's helpful advice, we dropped off at the antique shop district in Gion and they enjoyed shopping there. The guests were especially delighted.

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

    Tour Report by Shoko

    I am an experienced guide, who live in Osaka. I have been a Government-Licensed Guide in English since 2018. I have already guided a lot of tourists overseas in Kansai Area, that is, in the vicinity of my prefecture, Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, and Himeji. I am especially good at guiding in Kansai Area with sufficient knowledge of history, culture and transportation. I have guided people ranging from a small group of one or two to a group of 20-50 people in a big bus, that is, a coach. I like delicious food, because Osaka is a city of Kuidaorre, which means that people in Osaka love to eat and never spend too much money on food. Therefore, as an Osakan, I will do my best to explore restaurants which serve most delicious foods in wherever I take to my guests.

    Request Booking

    Mar 31, 2026
    Michael A
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Perfectly customized tour
    Shoko San did an amazing job planning a…

    Mar 29, 2026
    judyl582
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Shoko was great
    Shoko was an excellent guide. From the moment she…

    Oct 8, 2025
    441gayh
    World Heritage Kyoto places with the best guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely perfect! SHOKO was…

    Oct 3, 2025
    Judi H
    Introduction to Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful tour with Shoko.
    She…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari & Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari & Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel meet-up
    • 9:50 Fushimi Inari
    • 11:35 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 12:45 Lunch (sushi restaurant near JR Nijo Station)
    • 14:00 Kinkaku-ji
    • 15:30 Guide to the entrance of Nijo Castle, then the tour ends

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like with Kids? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They requested a hotel meeting point, which meant we could not save time on the way to Kyoto Station. Because it was a larger group, restroom breaks took a while, and buying JR tickets with cash also took additional time. In addition, it rained during the first half of the tour, so simply moving between locations required more time than expected. As a result, by the time we reached Nijo Castle, it was already about 30 minutes past our 3:00 finish time. At the suggestion of one of the guests, I provided the basic information about Nijo Castle, and they decided to go in on their own from there. We took photos at the Arashiyama bamboo grove. One of the guests mentioned that public safety in their home city has reportedly worsened recently, with an increase in theft and crime since the pandemic, which is unfortunate to hear. The sushi lunch was very well received.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShijo～Kyoto220JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 3TrainInari～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 4TrainSaga-Arashiyama～Nijo190JPY
    Section 5TrainNijo～Enmachi150JPY
    Section 6BusEnmachi～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 7BusKinkakuji-michi～Nishioji-Oike230JPY
    Section 8TrainNishioji-Oike～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Total1,630JPY

    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.

    Request Booking

    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…

  • 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. 08:55 Meet up @ Conrad Tokyo
    • 2. 09:10 Travel: Train
    • 3. 09:40 Visit @ Meiji Shrine
    • 4. 10:20 Travel: Train
    • 5. 10:30 Visit @ Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 6. 10:40 Travel: Subway
    • 7. 11:05 Visit @ Tsukiji
    • 8. 12:05 Lunch @ Tsukiji Sushisei Shinkan
    • 9. 12:45 Travel: Subway
    • 10. 13:15 Visit @ Asakusa
    • 11. 14:30 Travel: Subway (Toei)
    • 12. 14:50 Disband @ Conrad Tokyo

    Because I had also visited the meeting-point hotel the previous Saturday, I was able to specify a suitable landmark and meet the guests without any trouble. This time the guests seemed interested in Japanese kitchen knives, so I made a point of allowing extra time for our visit to Tsukiji. In case they could not find something suitable at Tsukiji, I had also considered guiding them to Kappabashi Kitchen Town, but they were able to purchase a favorite knife at Tsukiji without any issues. Overall, I arranged the itinerary so that we could talk about both Shinto and Buddhism, by taking them to Meiji Shrine in the morning and Sensoji Temple in the afternoon. Also, since the guests had a Suica card, I used JR, the Tokyo Metro, and the Toei Subway selectively while moving around, taking into account crowd levels and travel times.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShimbashi Station～Harajuku Station210JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku Station～Shibuya Station150JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya Station～Tsukiji Station210JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji Station～Asakusa Station210JPY
    Section 5SubwayToei Asakusa Station～Toei Shimbashi Station220JPY
    Total1,000JPY

    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…

  • 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

    • 1.1000 Hotel
    • 2.1020Asakusa
    • 3.1130Tsukiji Honganji+Market+Lunch
    • 4.1315 Omotesando+Cat Street+Takeshita Street
    • 5.1500Meiji Jingu
    • 6.1545 Shibuya Hachi+Crossing

    What Can You See in One Day in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Private Tour Report The guests were on a trip and had only one day in Tokyo. In a short time, they were able to experience many different sides of Tokyo — the Hozuki Market in Asakusa, Ameyoko, conveyor-belt sushi at Tsukiji, Omotesando, a newly opened shaved ice shop at the entrance of Takeshita Street, an animal cafe on Takeshita Street, and the traditional Meiji Shrine — and they were deeply impressed. We also had a lively conversation, as the area where I once lived was quite similar to areas familiar to the guests. They enjoyed the day thoroughly and said that next time they would like to spend more time touring Kyoto. The following morning, I gave them information on how to get to Narita Airport (the NEX) along with a note for the taxi driver, saw them onto the metro at Shibuya Station, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGinza～Asakusa209JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Ueno178JPY
    Section 3SubwayNaka-okachimachi～Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji Market～Omotesando286JPY
    Section 5SubwayHarajuku～Shibuya148JPY
    Total999JPY

    Tour Report by Kazu

    My name is KAZU HAKATA. 73years old (as of end AUG2025). I started as a guide from March 2023. Graduated from KYOTO Univ Intl Economics and MBA from INSEAD in France. (14 years in overseas, LUX, Paris, Hong Kong) . I used to work in Banking, Telecommunication, Air Line, Financial Trading as CFO. I did more than 150 days of Guide since 2023,Tokyo( most of the Guides), Nikko, Hakone, Kamakura, and other area. Born in Hyogo Pref. I lived 26 years in Kansai and know quite well Kyoto, Nara, Osaka ,Kobe, Wakayama ( Koya san + Kumano Kodo).
    I know not only touristic sites, but I can show you hidden charming points of JAPAN. If you can enjoy your tour in JAPAN, it is also my pleasure. I will do as much as I can to assist you to understand Japanese history, culture, nature, and a real life in JAPAN.
    [FRANCAIS]
    J’ai commencee a Guide apres avoir obtenu Diplome de Francaise en fevrier 2023. Jusqu’a maintenant j’ai effectue plus de 150 guides dont 1/4 francais. Principalement a Tokyo , mais de temps en temps aux Nikko, Kamakura, Kawaguchiko, Hakone, Takayama, Shirakawago, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Okayama, Naoshima.
    A Tokyo, les sites frequentes sont Tsukiji, Hama Rikyu, Asakusa, Jardin Imperial, Rikugi-En , Yanaka, Ueno, Ameyoko, Musee Nationale, Akihabara, Jardin de Korakuen , Harajuku, Sanctuaire de Meiji, ruelle de Tekeshita , Aoyama, Shibuya, Temple de Gotokuji, etc.
    Comme je suis ne a Hyogo ( ouest du Japon) et etudie a Kyoto, Je connais bien Kyoto,Nara,Osaka, Mont Koya, Hieizan. En plus j’ai travaille a Osaka 2017-2019.pendant cette periode j’ai souvent visitee des sites touristiques a Kyoto, Nara, Osaka. J’ai fait les randonnes a Kumono Kodo et 33 temples en Kansai.

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    Apr 4, 2026
    Rebecca_M
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kazu Rocks!!
    Kazu was a gem! From our booking well in advance…

    Oct 19, 2025
    geoffreysE7617EB
    6-hour Tokyo Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
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  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Himeji Castle & Nadagiku Sake Brewery

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Himeji Castle & Nadagiku Sake Brewery

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet @ JR Himeji Station
    • 10:00 @ Himeji Castle
    • 12:15 @ Hiromine Shrine
    • 13:00 @ Nadagiku Sake Brewery
    • 13:45 Disband @ JR Himeji Station

    What Is a Private Himeji Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group who moved smoothly throughout the day. The sky was cloudy at the start, but we managed to finish without encountering rain. At each spot, all of the guests observed everything attentively. Perhaps due to the unstable weather, there were fewer visitors than usual, which actually allowed us to explore at a relaxed pace — a welcome outcome. The second spot of the day, Hiromine Shrine, has poor access, so we had no choice but to use a taxi, and since it is very difficult to call a taxi from the site for the return trip, we had the taxi we used on the way there wait for us during the visit. This is a point to keep in mind for the future. At Nadagiku Sake Brewery, the guests greatly enjoyed the tasting and purchased many souvenirs. After the tour, they planned to return to Osaka and had booked a bullet train departing after 17:00, but they wished to change to an earlier one, so I assisted with the change procedure at the ticket counter, after which we parted ways.

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

    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

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    Sep 27, 2026
    Ross_W
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  • Kyoto: Arashiyama & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto: Arashiyama & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:30 Meeting point: JR Kyoto Station, Shinkansen Central Exit
    • 12:20 Sightseeing: Arashiyama (Bamboo Grove Path, Togetsukyo Bridge)
    • 13:30 Lunch: Arashiyama "Soba, Togakushi"
    • 14:50 Sightseeing: Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 16:50 Sightseeing: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 18:00 Dismissal: Ryokan "Motonago"

    What's a Private 6-Hour Kyoto Tour Like in the Rainy Season? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. During our prior communication their preferred destinations were clear, but they had requested six locations within a six-hour course, so the itinerary needed to be organized. Since the tour would end at a ryokan in the Higashiyama area, and nearby spots such as Gion and Nishiki Market can be enjoyed without a guide, I suggested removing them from the tour. I also decided to leave out Kiyomizu-dera, judging that its crowds would be too much for young children. The guests understood these suggestions well, and we finalized the itinerary described above. In addition, the meeting point had originally been listed as a hotel in the booking, but since they would be traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto by shinkansen on the morning of the tour, at the guests' request it was changed to the Central Shinkansen Exit at JR Kyoto Station. The means of transportation was a private vehicle. On the tour day in July, the latest forecast predicted rain, with especially heavy rainfall expected from the afternoon into the evening. In reality, at the first destination, Arashiyama, it was cloudy with no rain, and we proceeded smoothly with occasional sunshine. However, around the time we finished lunch, large drops of heavy rain began to fall, and we hurriedly prepared our rain gear, but the heavy rain stopped in a short time, and we were able to walk across Togetsukyo Bridge and enjoy the beautiful scenery. This rain, however, caused some loss of time. At the next destination, Kinkaku-ji, the rain had almost stopped, but since one of the guests wanted to buy a change of clothes, we spent about 15 minutes shopping at a souvenir shop. This unplanned time also put pressure on the schedule at the final destination, Fushimi Inari. In addition, heavy rain began to fall again during the visit to Kinkaku-ji, and we spent some time taking shelter. By the time we returned to the taxi at the parking area, including the travel time to the next stop, there was hardly any time left for the stay at Fushimi Inari. In the end, after consulting with the guests and taking into account their request to extend the time by 30 minutes, we changed the scheduled end time from 5:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. As a result, the stay at Fushimi Inari lasted about 30 minutes, and the guests were able to enjoy it fully. Regarding the additional fee for the 30-minute extension, the guests offered to pay it, and in accordance with the regulations, they settled the payment for both the private vehicle and the guide. This tour truly made me realize the difficulty of touring during the rainy season, but thanks to the guests' understanding and the advice drawn from the experienced private vehicle driver, we were able to respond well in advance. It was a tour for a close-knit group, and I was especially impressed that the young twins smiled and enjoyed themselves right until the end.

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

    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.

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    Aug 10, 2026
    Paul_H
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    Kind and knowledgeable guide – highly recommended
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    Apr 9, 2026
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  • Hiroshima in One Day: Peace Memorial & Guide ends at Hiroshima

    Hiroshima in One Day: Peace Memorial & Guide ends at Hiroshima

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00　Meet at the hotel
    • 9:45　Peace Memorial Museum
    • 10:50　Walk through Peace Park while guiding through the Atomic Bomb Victims Memorial Cenotaph, Atomic Bomb Dome, hypocenter, etc.
    • 12:50　Miyajima
    • 13:20　Lunch
    • 14:00　Itsukushima Shrine
    • 14:40　Daiganji Temple
    • 15:20　Purchase chopsticks with names engraved as souvenirs
    • 16:50　Guide ends at Hiroshima Station

    Can You Do a Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Tour with a Licensed Guide? A Guide's Report The guests were visitors from South America who traveled a long way to reach Japan. At the Peace Memorial Museum, they viewed the exhibits carefully, and I provided additional explanations at key points. At the hypocenter, they were deeply moved to learn that the grandchild of the former head of the historic clinic that once stood there now runs a clinic of the same name. For lunch, we enjoyed oysters, a Hiroshima specialty, added as a topping on okonomiyaki, which was very well received, and cheese was also added to another okonomiyaki. At Itsukushima Shrine, the guests purchased charms for family happiness and academic success, and also visited the Tenjin Shrine to pray, as an exam was coming up. On the way back, they bought four sets of chopsticks with names engraved on them for the family. We waited about 30 minutes, so the tour ended a little later than planned, but since the guests were so pleased, I consider it a success. 😄

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHiroshima～Fukuromachi220JPY
    Section 2TrainHommachi～Shin-Hakushima190JPY
    Section 3TrainShin-Hakushima～Miyajimaguchi330JPY
    Section 4TrainMiyajimaguchi～Hiroshima420JPY
    Total1,160JPY

    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
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    Jul 15, 2026
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    A great day
    A great day in the Company of mr. Shuji.

    Jun 28, 2026
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