Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at Fushimi Inari Taisha entrance
    • 10:20 Nijo Castle
    • 11:50 Kinkaku-ji
    • 12:45 Disband at Kinkaku-ji exit

    Title: What Does a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Nijo Castle, and Kinkaku-ji The guests were visitors from North America. Today was again cloudy, which made for very comfortable conditions. Fushimi Inari Taisha was not too crowded, which was nice, but Nijo Castle coincided with group tours, so there were many people, and it was extremely hot and humid, which I think left the guests tired. I also believe they took an interest in the beauty of the Japanese garden. To save time, we used a taxi to visit Kinkaku-ji, so I think we were able to get around efficiently. They seemed to be thoroughly enjoying Kyoto, having already visited Uji and met a maiko.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainFushimi Inari～Sanjo220JPY
    Section 2SubwaySanjo Keihan～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Total440JPY

    Tour Report by Kaeko

    Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

    Request Booking

    Jul 25, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Half-day with private guide in Kyoto
    We spent half a day…

    Jul 24, 2026
    J6711TVnancyb
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Family Fun Day in Kyoto with young children
    Kaeko Tanigawa was fantastic at helping us create…

    Jul 13, 2026
    elizabethtW414DU
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Private Tour
    Kaeko was absolutely amazing from start…

    Jul 12, 2026
    johnkE8649IH
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Kyoto Day Tour
    We had a wonderful experience touring Kyoto…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Tokyo Tower

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Tokyo Tower

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:55　Meet @ Hotel
    • 10:30　Shibuya Scramble Crossing & Hachiko
    • 10:50　Meiji Shrine
    • 12:10　Imperial Palace
    • 12:50　Lunch @ Hakata Menbo Aka-noren Marunouchi Branch
    • 14:00　Sensoji Temple
    • 15:20　Tokyo Tower
    • 16:15　Dismissal @ Hotel

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They planned to continue to Kyoto and Hiroshima after sightseeing in Tokyo. They appeared deeply impressed by the vast and solemn atmosphere of Meiji Shrine. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with great interest to the historical explanation that the site was originally Edo Castle, where the shogun lived, and that after the Meiji Restoration the Emperor relocated there from Kyoto. At Senso-ji Temple, they seemed impressed by the historic structures such as Kaminarimon Gate, Hozomon Gate, the five-story pagoda, and the main hall. At Tokyo Tower, they were moved by the spectacular views of Tokyo. Since I accommodated the guests' requests as they wished, I believe they were satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHibiya～Shibuya600JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya～Harajuku150JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nijubashimae0JPY
    Section 4TrainTokyo～Ueno170JPY
    Section 5SubwayUeno～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 6SubwayAsakusa～Kamiyacho0JPY
    Section 7SubwayKamiyacho～Hibiya0JPY
    Total920JPY

    Tour Report by Seizo

    I am Seizo Kamiuto, National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English). I was born in Kagoshima City in Kyushu (Southern part of Japan) and grew up there until the graduation from a high school. I came to Tokyo to enter a University in Tokyo and since then, I have lived in Tokyo for more than 40 years and therefore I know Tokyo and its suburbs and Kagoshima City very well. After retiring from an IT company, I have been working as a Guide Interpreter of English since March 2018. I have guided many overseas guests to the popular sightseeing spots in Tokyo, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji area (Kawaguchiko Lake etc.), Hakone, Nikko, Yokohama, Kawagoe and Kagoshima and so on. I have received good reviews from many guests. I can explain the history and the culture of Japan in detail. I look forward to an opportunity to guide you in Japan. Thank you. Seizo Kamiuto

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    Sep 27, 2026
    jonaJ5014ZK
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Seizo was a tremendously fabulous…

    Sep 11, 2026
    M7402TTsharonp
    Higly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing tour with Seizi Kaminto.…

    Sep 8, 2026
    OnAir57127583503
    Amazing Experience with Kamakura Day Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    We had an excellent time with Seizo Kamiuto as our…

    Sep 4, 2026
    B2319ZKjoseo
    Pleasant stroll through HISTORY
    Tripadvisor review: Kawagoe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a great time learning about…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Nishiki Market

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Nishiki Market

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:30 Hotel
    • 13:00 　Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 14:00　Ryoan-ji Temple
    • 15:30　Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 16:30　Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 17:30　Yasaka Shrine ＞ Gion
    • 18:00　Nishiki Market

    What Can You See on a 6-Hour Private Kyoto Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report Today I guided the guests, visiting from North America, on a private tour of Kyoto. Since they had only a short time in Kyoto, they wanted to see the famous highlights, so we visited the places they requested. The guests kept up a brisk pace, and over the course of six hours we managed to cover more than I had expected. I thought we might finish around Gion, but we were able to continue all the way to the end of Nishiki Market. Along the way, the guests treated me to ice cream, and they also stopped at a convenience store to buy and enjoy some snacks. At a few points we took taxis to cool off. It seemed to be a lull between school excursion groups, so Kinkaku-ji was not crowded.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainEnmachi～Inari200JPY
    Total200JPY

    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…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Station & Peace Memorial Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Station & Peace Memorial Park

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

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hiroshima Station
    • 11:00 Miyajima
    • 11:10 Coffee Shop
    • 11:35 Itsukushima Shrine
    • 12:15 Daisho-in
    • 13:00 Lunch at Lente
    • 13:55 Five-storied Pagoda, Senjokaku
    • 14:05 Omotesando Shopping Street
    • 15:35 Peace Memorial Park
    • 　　　(Atomic Bomb Dome, Hypocenter, Memorial Monument, Museum)
    • 17:25 Hiroshima Station

    Title: What's a Private Day Trip from Osaka to Hiroshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Miyajima and the Peace Memorial Park The guests were staying at a hotel in Osaka and joined this tour by taking a day trip from Osaka to Hiroshima on the shinkansen. They were a cheerful and friendly group visiting Japan for the first time. They loved Japanese food and wanted to try local specialties, and we had lively conversations during our travels about food, sightseeing spots, work, and everyday life. At Miyajima, they were delighted to see the deer, and I acted as their photographer at various photo spots, taking many pictures of the guests. Since they had started early and had not eaten much breakfast, and they seemed to enjoy coffee, we stopped at a coffee shop for a short break on the way to Itsukushima Shrine. At the shrine, they took their time looking around and enjoyed taking photographs. At Daisho-in Temple, they looked with great interest at the various Buddhist statues and buildings, and I received many questions. When they drew an omikuji fortune and got the best possible result, they were very pleased, and when I translated the Japanese into English for them, they seemed very satisfied and took it home as a keepsake. They enjoyed a delicious lunch and appeared to relax comfortably. They also savored the fried momiji manju and liked it very much. At Miyajima, they seemed very relaxed and were enjoying themselves. At the Peace Memorial Park, they carefully viewed the monuments and buildings and I received several questions. They were eagerly taking photographs. After visiting the museum, we took a break while I asked for their impressions and we talked about peace. After returning to Hiroshima Station, I recommended okonomiyaki for dinner, and they said they very much wanted to eat it before heading back, so I introduced a restaurant and said goodbye. Later I received a message of thanks and joy saying they had enjoyed a very delicious okonomiyaki at the restaurant. They told me that today had been the most enjoyable day of their trip so far, which made me very happy. I was truly glad they were satisfied. It was a very enjoyable day for me as well.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi Station420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi Station～Nishi-Hiroshima Station330JPY
    Section 3TrainHiroden Nishi-Hiroshima Station～Genbaku Dome-mae220JPY
    Section 4BusHeiwa Kinen Koen-mae～Hiroshima Station220JPY
    Total1,190JPY

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

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2024
    yasminc961
    Incredible Tour Guide Experience!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We weren’t sure what to…

  • Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet at JR Kamakura Station East Exit ticket gate
    • 2. 10:30 Hokokuji Temple
    • 3. 11:30 Zuisenji Temple
    • 4. 13:00 Lunch at Kamaage Udon Miyoshi
    • 5. 14:30 Kotokuin Great Buddha
    • 6. 14:50 Disband in front of the Great Buddha

    Title: What Is a Private Kamakura Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Hokokuji, Zuisenji, and the Great Buddha The guests enjoyed a matcha experience at Hokokuji Temple against the backdrop of its bamboo grove. We tried to arrange a taxi to Zuisenji Temple, but it did not come, so we walked instead; the path was shaded by trees, so it was not too hot. Although the goal of visiting Zuisenji was to see its rock garden, the walk along that classic Kamakura road had a wonderful atmosphere, and we spent a lovely time. This charmingly rustic temple was modest, but I believe it left a deeply memorable impression. Afterward, we walked down the hill to Komachi Street, where I recommended udon. The guests seemed to greatly enjoy the cold zaru udon, tempura, and shirasu rice. We then took the Enoden line to the Great Buddha, where I gave an explanation before parting ways. This was my first visit to Zuisenji, and I felt that arranging a taxi from Hokokuji Temple, which is in a somewhat out-of-the-way location, is a challenge for the future.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKamakura Station～Jomyoji220JPY
    Section 2TrainKamakura～Hase200JPY
    Total420JPY

    Tour Report by Kei

    Born and raised in Tokyo a half-century ago, I have lived in Tokyo all my life except for one year in the UK to study for a master’s course. I am a Tokyo Native with viewpoints based on broader local knowledge than anyone else. I have specialised in Japanese history, culture, and architecture since I was an architect.
    Also, I am a foodie emphasising Japanese traditional & healthy foods. I’ve been to many countries around the world, such as the US, Central America, Europe, and Asia. As such, I believe I can anticipate the needs of foreign tourists in Japan.

    Despite my experience as a guide for just two years, we can make the best out of our tour by travelling from your hotel to spots time-efficiently with my local knowledge, while accommodating your unexpected requests during the tour.
    My strong area includes Yanesen; Old Temples in a Quaint Village, Kamakura, Asakusa Sensoji, Meiji Shrine and Imperial Palace. All give you peace of mind.

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    Oct 22, 2025
    I5562SWphilipk
    Great intro to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kei was a genial and knowledgeable host, who…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Gary H
    Great tour of Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We loved our tour! Our guide was…

    Oct 5, 2025
    C
    Cindy_S
    Had one day in Tokyo and…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Had one day in Tokyo…

    Sep 15, 2025
    chrishN2970OC
    A highly enjoyable tour of Tokyo with knowledgeable local guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had…

  • Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 12:00 Meet up @ In front of Himeji Station Central Ticket Gate
    • 2. 12:05 @ Castle View
    • 3. 12:30 @ Himeji Castle
    • 4. 14:40 @ Nadagiku Sake Brewery
    • 5. 15:50 Disband @ Himeji Station

    What Is a Private Himeji Castle and Sake Brewery Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. After explaining an overview of Himeji Castle at the Castle View point, we headed to Himeji Castle. Perhaps because the tour started late, Himeji Castle was not crowded, but it was very hot. For a moment, I even thought I might get heatstroke. The plan for the day was to visit Himeji Castle, Koko-en Garden, and Nadagiku Sake Brewery, but as the Himeji Castle visit was coming to an end, the guests said they wanted to skip Koko-en Garden and go to Nadagiku Sake Brewery. For this reason, we took two taxis to Nadagiku Sake Brewery. At the brewery, after explaining an overview of sake making in the sake cellar used for tours, we went to the tasting corner. At the tasting corner, some of the guests sampled many different kinds of sake and purchased a variety of them. I have been to Nadagiku Sake Brewery many times, but this was the first time I had guests who purchased so much sake. After visiting Nadagiku Sake Brewery, we returned to Himeji Station by taxi and ended the tour. I believe the guests fully enjoyed the tour.

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

    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!

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Sapporo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Sapporo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Sapporo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:56 Meet up @Hotel Sapporo
    • 2. 10:10 Former Hokkaido Government Office
    • 3. 10:30 Sapporo Clock Tower
    • 4. 11:15 Sapporo Odori Park
    • 5. 11:30 Nijo Market
    • 6. 11:50 Tanukikoji
    • 7. 12:45 Lunch @Rabbi (Sapporo Le Trois)
    • 8. 14:20 Shiroi Koibito Park
    • 9. Disband @Hotel Sapporo

    Title: What Is a Private Sapporo Tour Like for Photography Lovers? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Asia on their first tour of Hokkaido, traveling to celebrate a special occasion. One of the guests enjoyed photography and took many photos, including flowers at Odori Park and Shiroi Koibito Park. After arriving in Chitose the previous day, the guests had rented a car, and after this day's tour they planned to drive up Mount Moiwa, where they had made a dinner reservation at the summit restaurant. I assisted with making that kind of reservation. The guests were also planning to drive toward Lake Toya, and then to Biei and Furano, in the following days. I provided the necessary information and helped with reservations for those plans.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOdori Park Station～Miyanosawa Station290JPY
    Section 2SubwayMiyanosawa Station～Sapporo Station290JPY
    Total580JPY

    Tour Report by Tom

    I was born and raised in Hokkaido and have been a resident of Sapporo for over 30 years. I have been actively involved in guiding tourists around the scenic spots of Hokkaido, primarily focusing on Sapporo. Even before becoming a licensed interpreter guide, I engaged in volunteer activities to assist and guide foreigners, providing me with valuable opportunities to delve into the rich culture and history of Hokkaido.
    Hokkaido is renowned for its exceptional culinary scene, and I am well-versed in gourmet information. I believe I can offer an excellent experience by guiding individuals through the highly acclaimed food experiences that Hokkaido has to offer.

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    Aug 15, 2026
    I654RPsandib
    Great experience
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We thoroughly enjoyed our 6 hours touring Sapporo with…

    Apr 22, 2026
    Agent PT A
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Super Sapporo in April with Tom.
    Tom was kind…

    Feb 10, 2026
    Alan_C
    Very enjoyable and well…
    Viator review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Very enjoyable and well worth it. Our…

    Sep 24, 2025
    saratW9816BN
    Tour up to the Moiwa mountain and lots more
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We’ve had…

  • Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Private Car Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Private Car Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Private Car Tour, Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at hotel　9:10 Fushimi Inari　　10:30 Sanjusangendo　　11:40 Nishiki Market　　　13:20 Kinkaku-ji　　　15:35 Return to hotel and tour ends

    Title: What Is a Private Day Trip from Osaka to Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. They were a quiet group overall. One of the guests asked the most questions. The drive to Fushimi Inari took about an hour, and some of the guests dozed off along the way, perhaps due to lack of sleep. It was mostly cloudy and not too hot today, which made sightseeing comfortable. They mentioned that the weather was not so different from where they live. At Fushimi Inari, they were approached with questions in English by junior high school students on a school trip, and all of them responded sincerely. They did very little extra shopping. Since one of the guests could not eat fish, I guided the group to a restaurant in Nishiki Market that offered a variety of options, including udon and soba. They stayed hydrated and also enjoyed some ice cream. As they did not have Japanese yen, they exchanged dollars for yen at a currency exchange machine before heading to Nishiki Market. We took photos at Kinkaku-ji. On the way back, the roads were relatively clear, and we were able to return smoothly to the hotel in Osaka.

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

    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…

  • Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

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

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up ＠Hiroshima Station
    • 2. 11:00 @Miyajima ＠Itsukushima Shrine
    • 3. 11:50 Lunch @Shibai Chaya Mizuha
    • 4. 12:30 @Grilled Oyster Hayashi ＠Senjokaku
    • 5. 14:00 @Peace Park Museum
    • 6. 15:40 @Hiroshima Castle
    • 7. 16:45 Dismiss @Hiroshima Station

    What Is a Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Until we met on the day of the tour, a travel agency was acting as an intermediary, and I was not able to contact the guests directly. I explained that a contact number was absolutely necessary for meeting on the day, and I was just barely able to obtain a phone number. I was a little worried until we actually met. The guests were very friendly and pleasant. When we met, they said they would leave everything up to the guide. However, the agency had specified several destinations, and I had planned the tour accordingly. When I asked the guests, though, there were points that differed from what they actually wanted — for example, they said they did not need to visit a café called Tenshinkaku but wanted to try oysters, and although I had been told to take them to Hiroshima Castle, they said they had already visited Osaka Castle so they did not need to go inside. Because of this, I felt it would have been easier if I had been entrusted with the plan from the start, or if I had been able to communicate directly with the guests. The guests thoroughly enjoyed Miyajima, and they also viewed the Peace Park and the memorial museum with great interest.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima～Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2OtherMiyajima～Peace Park1,100JPY
    Total1,520JPY

    Tour Report by Kahori

    Hi, I’m Kahori, a nationally licensed tour guide, and delighted to show people around this area. For the past almost 10 years, I have mainly guided foreign medical professionals around Hiroshima City and Miyajima, gaining a deep understanding of the effects of radiation and the support for A-bomb survivors.
    Hiroshima is a city of rivers and the sea. Along the rivers Cherry trees line, and the calm Seto Inland Sea, dotted with islands, creates a stunning landscape. Also, the sea has many islands called “art islands” which have fantastic arts relating to the art festival “Setouchi Triennale”. In addition to our two World Heritage Sites, this area is rich in attractive resources. I hope many of you will come and experience this fascinating land. Personally, I am very passionate about modern art and enjoy sports like stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) on our rivers.
    I look forward to meeting you, interacting with you, and also, learning from you!

    Request Booking

    Oct 6, 2025
    DJ C
    We visited the atomic bomb museum, Hiroshima castle, a beautiful garden, and shrines and Torrey Gate.
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima /…

    Sep 23, 2025
    lorrainel669
    Awesome Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    The tour was fantastic. It covered everything…

    Jul 26, 2025
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    Tracy_P
    Outstanding Tour of Hiroshima with Kahori…
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    Jun 28, 2025
    Fernando A
    We knew the best of Hiroshima in 8 hrs
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed…

  • 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

    • 0830 Meet at Hotel (10 min from Shinjuku Station)
    • 0900 Harajuku – Meiji Shrine visit, Takeshita Street
    • 1050 Marunouchi – Tatsumi Yagura ~ Gyoko-dori ~ Marunouchi Building pillars ~ Tokyo Station
    • 1200 Tsukiji Outer Market – Lunch at Sushizanmai Annex
    • 1330 Asakusa – Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine
    • Due to the heat and fatigue, they wished to return to the hotel by taxi, so accompanied them.
    • 1440 Dismissed at the hotel

    What's a First-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like for a Solo Traveler? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a solo traveler from Oceania. The guest had a very sturdy build and some issues with an ankle, but completed the tour energetically. Since it was the guest's first visit to Japan and this was the first day, the guest wanted to learn how to use the trains and get a sense of the area, so I mainly guided them by subway. The guest had actively booked plans for the following days, including Kamakura, Disneyland, then Nikko, and street karts (the so-called Mario Kart activity). After that, the guest planned to travel around Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. At the Forest Terrace of Meiji Jingu, we had iced coffee and soft-serve ice cream in place of breakfast. It was too early for the shops on Takeshita Street to be open, but the guest seemed to enjoy the atmosphere. At the Imperial Palace Outer Garden and Marunouchi, the sun was blazing, so we sightseed while searching for shade. At Tsukiji, we had lunch, partly to find a cool place to rest. Originally we had planned to walk from there to Ginza 4-chome, but because of the intense heat and humidity, we skipped that and headed to Asakusa. Asakusa was crowded due to the Hozuki (ground cherry) Festival. Along the way, the guest purchased a desired sake flask and cup set. However, once we reached the main hall, the guest wanted to return to the hotel by taxi, so I accompanied them, saw them off at the hotel, 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 1TrainShinjuku～Harajuku146JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nijubashimae (Marunouchi)209JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijubashimae (Marunouchi) ~ Hibiya～Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji ~ Ueno～Asakusa209JPY
    Total742JPY

    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…