Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up @Meiji Shrine
    • 2. 10:05 @Meiji Shrine
    • 3. 11:45 @Zojoji Temple
    • 4. 12:20 @Tokyo Tower
    • 5. 13:00 @Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • 6. 13:30 @Tokyo Station (Station Plaza, Station Building) Restroom & Nursing
    • 7. 13:45 Lunch @Kamatake Udon (Inside GRANSTA Yaesu North, Tokyo Station)
    • 8. 15:20 @Asakusa (Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Street, Asakusa Shrine, Kaminari Issa, Sumida Park, Azumabashi Bridge)
    • 9. 16:30 Dismissal @In front of the 3D Cat Digital Billboard, Shinjuku Station East Exit

    Title: What's a Private Family Day Tour of Tokyo Like with a Licensed Guide? Meiji Jingu, Zojoji, Asakusa and Shinjuku The guests were first-time visitors to Japan from North America, traveling as a group. Before this tour, they had already visited Shibuya and Tsukiji. This time they planned to base themselves in Tokyo rather than going to Kyoto, and instead planned a visit to Kamakura, so when asked for recommendations I suggested the Great Buddha of Kamakura and Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. As a reason for choosing Japan as a destination, they mentioned their interest in Japan as well as the fact that Japan is a very baby-friendly country. Indeed, this time the little one drew a great deal of attention. For about half of the tour, the baby slept soundly in the stroller, but when carried through the streets, people of all ages we encountered (an older person who rode the same escalator, a middle-aged person who stood nearby on the JR train, and others) were charmed by how adorable the baby was and would speak to them and gently touch the baby's cheek. At a souvenir shop along Nakamise near Sensoji, several shop staff spotted the little one, gathered around, and gave a warm and delighted welcome. On the trains, we tried to use the wheelchair/stroller spaces as much as possible, but even elsewhere people actively offered their seats. Moreover, whenever a break was needed for the baby (diaper change and feeding), the timing somehow worked out perfectly (likely thanks to the increased number of multipurpose restrooms), and a restroom suitable for feeding was quickly found, so there was no need to wander around searching. The only exception was the restroom at Hamamatsucho Station, which had no diaper-changing bed, but there was a small counter, so I laid out a simple mat that had been brought along and was able to help with the diaper change. In the morning, the meeting point was in front of the torii gate of Meiji Jingu, and I had designated the torii right next to Harajuku Station, but it turned out they were at the torii on the Kitasando side. Coordinating through a direct conversation on a messaging app, we were able to meet up near the first parking area. At Meiji Jingu, they experienced the purification fountain and offering a prayer, and at Zojoji they enjoyed taking a commemorative photo combining the Buddhist temple main hall with Tokyo Tower. When awake, the baby looked around at the surrounding scenery with great curiosity while being held. For lunch, at an udon shop in Tokyo Station, they ordered chikuten udon and a large portion of niku udon. They were very satisfied, finding it delicious. Upon seeing a whole egg tempura on top of the udon, one of the guests remarked that it was the first time seeing egg tempura and looked eager to try it. During the meal, the baby stayed quietly asleep and woke up just as we were leaving the shop, a very well-timed little one. In Asakusa, after visiting Sensoji, the guests, who love matcha, made purchases and ordered a matcha latte at a tea shop, and were impressed that the quality was far higher than what could be found back home. They also mentioned that on a later day, when visiting teamLab Planets, they had booked a tea ceremony experience nearby. Finally, I took them by the Chuo Line to Shinjuku Station, and when I showed them the 3D signage cat on the East Exit side, the guests were delighted. There we said our goodbyes. As "your grandmother in Japan," I spoke to the baby, saying "please come and visit Japan again," and we parted.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHarajuku~Hamamatsucho260JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Hibiya Line, Kamiyacho Station~Kasumigaseki Station700JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line, Nihonbashi Station~Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line, Asakusa Station~Kanda Station0JPY
    Section 5TrainKanda (Tokyo)~Shinjuku210JPY
    Total1,170JPY

    Hello, I’m Noripy.
    I am a lively woman in my 60s who loves having fun. My charm lies in my bright and approachable personality. Drawing on over 30 years of international experience, I began working as a tour guide in 2023. I have conducted over 100 tours annually, ensuring that my clients enjoy Tokyo and its surrounding areas. I have received high praise from a wide range of customers, from teenagers to people in their 80s. I cater to solo travelers, couples, newlyweds, families, and groups of up to about 10 people. Living in the heart of the city, I actively guide tours primarily in Tokyo. In addition to being certified in English, one of my strengths is being able to communicate effectively in Spanish as well.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you all in Tokyo!

    Sep 10, 2026
    Sonal_G
    Noripy is just the best
    Viator review: Tokyo Vegetarian and Halal Food Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Noripy is such a…

    Jul 3, 2026
    Jody D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from Yokohama
    Best Post cruise tour ever
    It was…

    June 19, 2026
    Alec T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo in 4 hours
    Noripy was excellent! She guided us through…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Hema_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely experience. My…
    Lovely experience. My guide was an absolutely adorable lady…

  • Fukushima in One Day: TEPCO Decommissioning Archive Center

    Fukushima in One Day: TEPCO Decommissioning Archive Center

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:20 Meet at the taxi stand at Iwaki Station North Exit, departure
    • 11:35-12:30 The Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum
    • 12:40-13:45 Lunch・Roadside Station Namie
    • 13:45-14:40 Mt. Ohira~Ukedo Elementary School
    • 15:10-15:45 TEPCO Decommissioning Archive Center
    • 16:40 Arrive at Iwaki Station
    • 16:50 Dismissal

    Title: What Is a Private Fukushima Disaster-Area Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a family visiting from North America. They had already booked return train tickets for the 17:00 hour and wanted to be sure to make that train. They had watched a Netflix documentary about F1, and one of the guests, who enjoys science, had a strong interest in this trip; they also applied for the tour because they wanted to hear firsthand from a guide who had experienced the earthquake disaster. When I showed them photos and spoke about the tsunami in the taxi, they shared that the situation resembled what they had seen with Hurricane Katrina. The guests looked at the exhibits at the memorial museum with great interest, and at Ukedo Elementary School they were deeply impacted, saying that "seeing it in person is different from seeing it on video." Our stay at the Decommissioning Archive Center was shortened to about 30 minutes, but they showed great interest in the English video and the staff explanations, saying it was "very good." It seemed they truly wished they could have seen a little more. When I asked one of the guests if they liked Pokémon, the answer was yes, so I guided them to Lucky Park and the manhole covers at Michi-no-Eki Namie, and they were also delighted with how delicious the food was. Before saying goodbye, I gave them a small souvenir, we took a photo together, and we parted ways at Iwaki Station. Special notes: Although it should never happen, I arrived late. However, the guests were a very kind family, and thanks to the support of the [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) staff and driver Mr. Otomo, they even ended up worrying about me, which left me truly humbled. The careful email exchanges we had made to fine-tune the train times and schedule had helped us build a good relationship, which was a great help. I was also greatly aided by the beauty of Fukushima's nature — the lush green mountains and rice fields visible from the car window — and by the deliciousness of the food. I am deeply grateful for the support of [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/) and taxi driver Mr. Otomo. Thank you very much.

    Hello. I’m Mikiko Shiga, a licensed guide interpreter.
    I live in Iwaki, Fukushima, about 200km northeast from Tokyo.
    I was born in Sendai, the capital of Tohoku or the North East area of Japan.
    I ‘ve belonged to a volunteer guide group, I experienced walking tours in Asakusa, and other places in Tokyo.

    Meanwhile, the area I was born and live in is relatively uncrowded.
    Tohoku is blessed with beautiful nature, delicious food and fresh air.
    It is recommendable for tourists who want to avoid busy places.
    It would be wonderful if I could share the attractions in Tohoku or Ibaraki areas with my guests.

    Jul 10, 2026
    Jenny_A
    Viator review: Fukushima Hope Tour in 1 Day by Car with Licensed Guide
    Interesting tour to see…
    Interesting tour to see…

    Jun 14, 2026
    Michael_B
    Viator review: Fukushima Hope Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle from Iwaki
    Fukushima & Iwaki – Excellent Tour With Local Guides…

    Mar 23, 2025
    Phillosophizing
    An Unforgettable Journey Through Resilience and Remembrance
    Tripadvisor review: Fukushima Hope Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle from Iwaki
    Our Fukushima…

    Oct 11, 2024
    716zaineb
    A wonderful tour worth doing!
    Tripadvisor review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Miki did a wonderful job…

  • Kochi: Kochi New Port & Katsurahama Beach

    Kochi: Kochi New Port & Katsurahama Beach

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Kochi New Port
    • 9:30-10:30 Ryuga Cave
    • 10:45-11:15 Kaiyodo Space Factory Nankoku
    • 11:30-12:45 Restaurant Good Luck
    • 13:00 Hirome Market
    • 13:15-14:00 Kochi Castle
    • 14:35-15:00 Katsurahama Beach
    • 15:20 Kochi New Port

    Title: What's a Private Family Day Tour of Kochi Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Ryugado Cave, Kaiyodo, Kochi Castle, and Katsurahama The guests were a family group visiting Kochi. Because the group included children, I added Ryugado Cave and the Kaiyodo museum to the itinerary, and combined them with Kochi Castle and Katsurahama Beach, which they had wanted to visit from the start. The schedule became tight and the tour ran a little late, but the family was very satisfied. In a message after the tour, they told me that the children loved Ryugado Cave because they could feel nature there, and that they were very happy to have been able to buy a replica sword and shuriken. The rest of the group also enjoyed shopping, purchasing a kitchen knife with their name engraved on it. For the meal, we went to a local restaurant. Since one of the guests has a nut allergy, I recommended Japanese food, which they enjoyed. They also ordered and enjoyed seared bonito (katsuo no tataki). At Kochi Castle, the guests preferred going to Katsurahama Beach over climbing the castle keep, so I prioritized that. At Katsurahama they took photos of the sea and enjoyed dango and ice cream. It is unfortunate that I was unable to claim the 700 yen admission fee for the Kaiyodo museum this time. It used to be free, but apparently the policy has been revised. Since adding more options for places to visit would be helpful, it would be greatly appreciated if admission fees could be covered.

    Hello, I am Keiko.
    I was born and raised in Kochi Prefecture which is blessed with beautiful rivers, mountains and the ocean.
    I majored in English in college and enjoy communicating with people in English. I have also worked at a university, assisting international students from admission to graduation.
    I consider myself friendly and enjoy helping others.
    In my free time, I visit an onsen, swim, do yoga and watch TV dramas.
    I am also a big foodie! I would be happy to recommend some great restaurants and bars.
    I am looking forward to meeting you in Kochi.

    Apr 5, 2026
    Giovanni_M
    Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Fantastic
    Our tour was just amazing worth every moment and…

    Mar 18, 2026
    Victor_P
    Great tour.
    Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Keiko was great. Very friendly and accommodating. The…

    Jun 19, 2025
    Brad_M
    Best Tour of our Entire Trip to Japan
    Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    We had…

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Hakone-Yumoto Station & Narukawa Art Museum

    Kanagawa in One Day: Hakone-Yumoto Station & Narukawa Art Museum

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel
    • 9:20 Hakone-Yumoto Station
    • 10:00 Gora Station
    • 10:45 Owakudani
    • 11:50 Togendai Station
    • 12:40 Motohakone Port
    • 12:50 Hakone Shrine
    • 13:40 Narukawa Art Museum
    • 15:05 Hakone-Yumoto Station

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Hakone and Owakudani Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Oceania. One of the guests observed Owakudani with great interest, and looked very keenly at the photographs and displays in the geo-museum. Another of the guests remarked several times that Japanese food culture is truly healthy. They also mentioned that Japanese people are kind and that traveling here felt very pleasant. The guests also enjoyed golf several times during their trip.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassHakone-Yumoto~Gora6,000JPY
    Total6,000JPY

    In February 2017, I registered with Kanagawa prefecture as a National Interpreter Guide in English. Since then, I have guided mainly in Tokyo and Kamakura and Hakone in Kanagawa Prefecture, except during the corona virus epidemic. In addition, in February 2022, I became a Hakone Adventure Travel Guide certified by the Hakone DMO. I am especially good at walking and hiking tours. Here are my recommendations for Tokyo and Hakone.

    Tokyo – Imperial Palace
    The Imperial Palace is formally known as the Edo castle, the stronghold of the Tokugawa Shogunate. This place has been the residence of emperor of Japan since after the Meiji Restoration in 1868. The palace with a compound of 1.15 million square metere consists of the main palace where ceremonies and functions are held, the resindence of the Emperor and Empress, and the East Garden containing the ruins of Tensyukaku Donjon. The Chowadn Hall, located in the main Imperial Palace, is noted for the New Year’s visit by the general public to the Imperial Palace.

    Tokyo – Asakusa
    Asakusa is a famous sightseeing spot in Tokyo, which is reminiscent of the Edo period. This district has been flourishing as a temple town of Senso-ji, the oldest and the largest temple in Tokyo, Kaminarimon, or “Thunder Gate,” the outer gate of the temple is very famous as a landmark of Asakusa for its huge red lantern. Both domestinc and foreign tourists flock to thie venerable temple and the shopping arcade called “Nakamise” in the compound, the best place to buy traditional Japanese souvenirs in Tokyo.

    Hakone – Owakudani Valley
    One of the most popular sightseeing spots in Hakone. There are exploded craters, which were formed by the last phreatic eruption of Hakone Volcano about 3,000 years ago, and activer sulfur and hot stream vents. White smoke envelops the desolate ground to this day, and you can feel the intensity of a active volcano. This place is also a popular viewing spot for Mt. Fuji.

    Hakone – Jinja Shrine
    Hakone Jinja Shrine is famous for its Shinto shrine archway of Peace, which was founded in its current location in 757 based on a revelation of the priest Mangan. Manga was famous priest who trained in strict ascetic practices and pacified the nen-headed dragon that lived at the bootm of Lake Ashi, and history is still handed down to people today.

    Hakone – Check Point
    Tokugawa shogun placed 53 sekisy (facility of inspection) on major roads across the nation to defend Edo (current Tokyo). Hakone Sekisho was one of the largest and was thought to be important among them. Hakone Sekisyo was placed on the current location in 1619, during an early period of Edo Era. One of the main roles of sekisho was to control “incoming guns and outgoing women”, which means to prevent wapons from being brought into Edo and wives and children of feudal lords from fleeing from Edo. However, Hakone Sekisho did not inspect “incoming guns” andseverely inspected “outgoing women”. Sekisho which operatef for about 260 years furing Edo Era, was dissoloved in the next years of 1868, when government changed.

    May 21, 2025
    aileenhs1739
    Great day!
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great way to see Mt Fuji with low stress!…

    Apr 5, 2025
    aradhnaa
    Perfect day
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sho was absolutely wonderful. He arrived early at our…

    Nov 9, 2024
    jennifergW1707MI
    Great way to see all the beauty Hakone had to offer
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide…

  • Tokyo: Asakusa & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tokyo: Asakusa & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet at Prince Sakura Tower
    • 09:40 Asakusa (Kaminarimon, Chuo-dori, Orange-dori, Denboin-dori, Sensoji Temple)
    • 11:00 Koishikawa Korakuen
    • 12:30 Lunch at Gonpachi NORI TEMAKI
    • 13:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 14:30 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 15:20 Disband at Prince Sakura Tower

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? Asakusa, Korakuen, and Meiji Shrine — A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. It was their first time in Japan; they had arrived the previous day and were set to begin a cruise the following day. We proceeded with the tour according to the itinerary agreed upon before their arrival. To avoid the crowds in Asakusa, we took the back streets toward Senso-ji Temple. It was not easy to bring up, but at Asakusa I also mentioned the Tokyo air raids. At Korakuen, I joked, "You look so young that you'll have to prove you're over 65," and one of the guests happily used a passport to prove their age. We rested at a teahouse, where I explained the daimyo system and the Tokugawa branch families. The Japanese irises seemed to be slightly past their peak, but the guests were fully satisfied. At the Meiji Shrine's paired camphor trees, I took photos of each part of the group. Over lunch, we exchanged views on Japan's strengths and weaknesses and on the values of young people in both regions. Since one of the guests followed a gluten-free diet, I took the group to NORI TEMAKI, which offers gluten-free soy sauce.

    Hello! My name is Hideki Maruyama. I was born in Osaka and raised in the Greater Tokyo area. I obtained my National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate in February 2016.
    I spent 23 years working at a leading Japanese automotive company, including 7 years posted overseas. I then worked for a German premium automotive manufacturer for 13 years, followed by 6 years as an advisor to a British energy company. Through these roles at global corporations, I developed and refined key skills such as:
    1. Cross-cultural communication
    2. A deep understanding of business elites and affluent customers
    3. The ability to deliver impactful and impressive presentations in English
    In addition to my regular duties, I often served as an interpreter for top executives during meetings with foreign government officials. I also had opportunities to introduce aspects of Japan—such as our national character and consumer preferences—to leadership teams in both the German and British companies.
    As a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding guests from a wide range of countries especially after the pandemic, including the US, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Ireland, Norway, Sweden, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

    Jun 14, 2026
    tiffany_w
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Phenomenal experiance
    Hideki san was an amazing guide. He was incredibly knowledgable…

    Jun 13, 2026
    Joshua_A
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The Best Guide I Had in Japan
    Hideki was, without question, my…

    May 2, 2026
    Bruce G
    Our guide (Hideki san) was a master. It was a rainy day and he suggested a new plan in anticipation…

    Apr 30, 2026
    johnbD9596UO
    Lovely Private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I had a great…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Guide Isetan rooftop

    Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Guide Isetan rooftop

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet
    • 10:15 Hotel (waited for son)
    • 10:45 Nijo Castle
    • 13:00 Arashiyama area (Kimono Forest, Monkey Park, observation deck, bamboo grove)
    • 15:50 Guide Isetan rooftop
    • 16:15 Tour ends at Kyoto Station

    What's a Private Family Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting Japan from North America. The itinerary had been arranged in advance with one of the guests, but at the meeting point they asked to change it, as some of the guests were getting bored. Some of the guests had gone exploring before the tour and got lost, so we started a little late. I decided that adjusting the tour to suit those guests would be best. After Nijo Castle, our conversation happened to turn to Japanese macaques, so I suggested a monkey park, which delighted them, and I guided them there. Before the tour ended, I was asked if there was anything else to show them, so I took them to the rooftop of the department store at the Karasuma exit. Since the Hotel was on the Hachijo side of the station, they enjoyed the modern design of the station and the escalators leading up to the rooftop.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto~Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijojo-mae~Arashiyama (Keifuku Line)510JPY
    Section 3TrainSaga-Arashiyama~Kyoto240JPY
    Total1,010JPY

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

    Sep 13, 2026
    946jakobr
    Mizu, as your guide in Koyoto, is the perfect guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed…

    Sep 5, 2026
    Sightsee18435593786
    De moeite waard👍
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Mizu heeft een mooie rondleiding geheven er werd…

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

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

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • Kyoto Station 1000→1040 Kiyomizu-dera Temple 1140→1120 Gion (including lunch time) 1345→1430 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine 1530→1600 Kyoto Station

    What's a Private Kyoto Higashiyama Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who had been looking forward to their trip to Japan. It was clearly evident that they were thoroughly enjoying their tour covering Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. We visited the classic sightseeing spots in the Higashiyama area of Kyoto. I had asked about their preferences by email in advance, so we enjoyed a course that broadly followed the requests of the guests. For lunch, I guided them to a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant that could satisfy both the preference of one who loved raw fish and the preference of another who did not, and the guests were very pleased.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKyoto Station-mae/Kyoto City Bus~Higashiyama Yasui/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2TrainGion-Shijo~Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Section 3TrainInari~Kyoto150JPY
    Total620JPY

    Since I completely retired from my position at a railway company and started being involved in the tour guide interpreter business, I have experienced almost all types of guiding through FIT, Long Group Tours, Cruises (Shore Excursions), Incentive Tours, Special Interest Tours (Railway Travel, Pilgrimages), Familiarization Tours (Sales Promotion Tours) etc.
    However, I noticed that I am not fully satisfied to only be a general guide who just manages a tour itinerary provided by tour agents/clients.
    High-end guests have sometimes requested me to answer some enquiries that are actually challenging to answer for Japanese nationals. However, I appreciated those because they provided such a challenge and I felt that they wanted to understand my sense of beauty/values as a guide concerning a new culture for them.
    Every time I host my guest I do my best to prepare the most appropriate information based on three travel elements (appetite, logistics, accommodation). Nevertheless, I decided to aim for higher guiding skills after I was motivated by senior guides whose guiding strategies and gestures were particularly impressive.

    Aug 7, 2026
    D1494MYdanielleg
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    One day walking tour in Tokyo
    Yoshi was great!…

    Aug 6, 2026
    dg89
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Private Führung in Kyoto
    Die Tour mit Yoshi war…

    Aug 3, 2026
    PaulaLondon2017
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A customized tour with guide around Kyoto
    We had…

    Jul 5, 2026
    788amarpals
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Top 7 Sights Private Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Private tour Guide in Kyoto- Mr Yoshi
    Mr.…

  • Tokyo: Nijubashi Bridge & Shibuya Crossing

    Tokyo: Nijubashi Bridge & Shibuya Crossing

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 10:30 Nijubashi Bridge
    • 11:00 East Gardens
    • 12:30 Asakusa (Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine)
    •   Lunch @ Ramen Ichiryu
    • 14:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:20 Shibuya Crossing
    • 16:00 Disband @ Hotel

    What's a One-Day Private Highlights Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They had arrived the previous afternoon and were scheduled to take a cruise the following day, so they had only one day in Tokyo. They requested the highlights, and we toured by chauffeured car. We took photos at Nijubashi Bridge and visited the East Gardens, where the Japanese iris flowers were still beautiful, which delighted them. In Asakusa they were surprised by the crowds, but they enjoyed Nakamise, had beef-bone ramen for lunch, and were very satisfied. It was a clear break in the rainy season, so we also walked comfortably through Meiji Shrine, but as they seemed a little tired, we viewed the Shibuya Crossing from the car and then took them back to their Hotel.

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

    Sep 29, 2026
    Darrin_T
    Tokyo Tour with Rumi
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Local tour guide Rumi took…

    Sep 29, 2026
    anettesoegaardn
    Rumi Hosoya is a very good tour-guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our guide was Rumi…

    Sep 25, 2026
    Frances_K
    Rumi was a wonderful…
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Rumi was a wonderful guide that provided…

    Sep 19, 2026
    K6328IFcarolinel
    Tokyo highlights
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Had a great day
    Rumi was very…

  • Kagawa in One Day: ANDO MUSEUM

    Kagawa in One Day: ANDO MUSEUM

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:50 ベネッセハウス パーク ロビー【集合】
    • 10:02 ベネッセハウス パーク バス停
    • ベネッセハウス送迎バスにて
    • 10:09 地中美術館 バス停
    • 10:30~11:30 地中美術館
    • 11:40 地中美術館 バス停
    • ベネッセハウス送迎バスにて
    • 11:42 李禹煥美術館 バス停
    • 11:45~12:15 李禹煥美術館 & ヴァレーギャラリー
    • 12:17 李禹煥美術館 バス停
    • ベネッセハウス送迎バスにて
    • 12:27 直島(本村)港 桟橋 バス停
    • 12:40~13:20 直島新美術館
    • 13:30~14:15 seto.UCHI にて昼食
    • 14:20~14:40 ANDO MUSEUM
    • 14:50~16:00 家プロジェクトのアート(「角屋」「護王神社」「はいしゃ」「石橋」)
    • 16:05~16:30 南寺
    • 徒歩にて
    • 16:35 直島(本村)港 桟橋 バス停【解散】

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Naoshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from South America. This time, after traveling for several days elsewhere in Asia, they stayed in Japan from June 8 to June 14, planning to travel from Osaka to Naoshima to Tokyo before returning home. They had visited Japan several times before. They appeared to be very successful in business. For lunch, they had requested a specific restaurant called seto.OUCHI in the Honmura district of Naoshima, and feeling that this was something not to be missed, I made a reservation so they could enjoy the meal. They mentioned that the front of a certain building was inspired by Tadao Ando's concrete walls as an homage to his work. Blessed with fine weather this time, the guests seemed to enjoy a full day on Naoshima, including Tadao Ando's architecture.

    Hello. My name is Hisao Kaji. I was born in 1945. I was raised in Takamatsu City from 3 years old. So, I have been living in Takamatsu for around 75 years. I believe I know Takamatsu City and the Kagawa prefecture area very well. If you come to Takamatsu, Kagawa I think you can enjoy your tour with me. I started a Government Licensed Guide in 2019. So, I have been a licensed guide for about 5 years. My favorite destinations are Naoshima, Teshima, Ritsurin Garden, the top of Mt. Yashima and so on. I always show you an itinerary about one month before your tour date, and I will accept any questions, other favorite places you want to visit. Communicating with you, I would like to accommodate your request for your tour. I always listen to NPR on the internet to know how the world is moving and improve my English. I like conversation based upon it with my life. I stayed in the USA for 8 months for a Power Systems Engineering Course conducted by General Electric in New York State when I was 28 years old. I sometimes talk about my memory of those days with the guests. I am very happy to guide tourists because I can see the guests become happy and enjoy themselves when I am guiding better. Nothing is more wonderful than that. I welcome your visit to Takamatsu City and Kagawa Prefecture. I believe you will have a pleasant time through my guide.

    Apr 19, 2026
    2Pippin2
    Tripadvisor review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A day to remember
    Perfect day! Our tour guide, Kaji,
    added so…

    Oct 23, 2025
    C
    Calli_C
    This was a great day tour…
    Viator review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was a great day…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Vanessa_A
    Lovely day on Naoshima Island
    Viator review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    It was great to relax and leave…

    Jun 1, 2025
    Pamela_F
    Highly recommend the half…
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    Highly recommend the half day tour and our…

  • Kyoto: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Nijo Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO
    • 9:45 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Walk
    • 10:30 Tenryu-ji Temple Garden
    • 11:10 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 12:20 Lunch at Nishio Yatsuhashi no Sato
    • 13:40 Nijo Castle
    • 15:00 Dismissal at HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour from a Cruise Ship? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. They were traveling by cruise ship and had come from Tokyo. They planned to visit various parts of Japan as well as Busan in South Korea. We strolled through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove from the Okochi Sanso Villa side. There were relatively few people, so we could take a leisurely walk, which was very nice. After that, we visited the Tenryu-ji Temple garden, which was also not too crowded, and the guests were able to enjoy the garden. At Kinkaku-ji Temple, the timing was perfect as well; usually it is difficult to take photos, but there were few people, so the guests were delighted to take many pictures. Since I had also made a lunch reservation, they were able to relax and enjoy their meal. Finally, we went to Nijo Castle, which was quite crowded. Due to time constraints for heading to Osaka Port, we did not view the garden and returned to the Hotel. I believe the guests enjoyed the day.

    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.

    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…