Category: Uncategorized

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Motohakone Port & Hakone Tozan Railway

    Kanagawa in One Day: Motohakone Port & Hakone Tozan Railway

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 11:15: – 11:50 Move to Motohakone Port by bus (Deyama → Motohakone Port)
    • 11:50 – 13:10 Sightseeing at Hakone Shrine and the Motohakone townscape
    • 13:25 – 13:50 Pirate ship (Motohakone Port → Togendai)
    • 13:50 – 14:10 Ropeway (Togendai → Owakudani)
    • 14:10 – 15:00 Sightseeing at Owakudani, lunch
    • 15:10 – 15:55 Ropeway, cable car, Hakone Tozan Railway (Owakudani → Hakone Open-Air Museum Station)
    • 16:00 – 17:00 Visit the Open-Air Museum
    • 17:10 – 17:13 Hakone Tozan Railway (Open-Air Museum → Kowakudani)
    • 17:14 – 17:30 Bus (Kowakudani → Deyama)

    What Is a Private One-Day Hakone Tour Like by Bus? A Licensed Guide's Report The day before the tour, the guests asked about the cost of arranging a car, as one of them had injured a foot. I had the office of [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) check on this, but since the request came the day before, I let them know that arrangements could not be made in time. Fortunately, on the day of the tour the foot pain had eased, so we carried out the tour as planned using the bus. Following an itinerary tailored to the guests' wishes, we visited Hakone Shrine, the sightseeing cruise ship, the ropeway, Owakudani, the cable car, the mountain railway, and the Hakone Open-Air Museum. The weather was cloudy, but there was no fog, so the views of Lake Ashi and Owakudani were clear, and Mount Fuji occasionally appeared between the clouds, which delighted the guests. By making it a full loop course, the guests were also very pleased to be able to ride so many different modes of transportation.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusDeyama～Motohakone Port990JPY
    Section 2OtherMotohakone Port～Togendai1,200JPY
    Section 3OtherMotohakone Port～Togendai Port800JPY
    Section 4OtherTogendai～Owakudani0JPY
    Section 5OtherOwakudani～Sounzan0JPY
    Section 6TrainSounzan～Open-Air Museum590JPY
    Section 7TrainOpen-Air Museum～Kowakudani Station160JPY
    Section 8BusKowakudani Station～Deyama470JPY
    Total4,210JPY

    Tour Report by Hit

    My name is Hit Suzuki. I am a male National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter for English tours. I have been living in Tokyo for more than 30 years and worked at a company in the Shinjuku area, which is the western core active area of downtown Tokyo, for more than 20 years. Therefore, I am very familiar with Tokyo City. I am happy to guide you to wherever you want to visit, eat, and experience in Tokyo. In addition to Tokyo, I am also very familiar with Hakone and Nikko, which are wonderful excursion areas from Tokyo where you can enjoy beautiful scenery and Japanese history. If you are interested, I would be glad to guide you in those areas as well.

    Request Booking

    Aug 1, 2025
    A
    Alessandro_G
    Our guide was called Hit…
    Viator review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide was called Hit Suzuki…

    Oct 21, 2024
    619yukik
    日光プライベートツアー6時間
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    ガイド鈴木さまのおかげで素晴らしい日光観光になりました。
    もともと予定していたゴールデンルートがありましたが、天気の兼ね合いと私たちがハイキングしたいという要望に応えてくださり、直前にも関わらず臨機応変に対応してくださいました。豊富な知識と私たちの要望に応えてくださったお陰でとても充実した1日になりました。大大大満足です。本当にありがとうございました。

    Oct 16, 2024
    Erica_E
    Awesome tour! Definitely recommend
    Viator review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an awesome time on our private…

    Oct 13, 2024
    H2475JJdavids
    A wonderful day in Nikko
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hit was a fantastic guide. He was…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel pick up
    • To Kinkakuji by bus
    • To Nijyoujyou by bus
    • To Imperial palace by subway

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Sightseeing Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. I had asked in advance about the places they wished to visit, and we carried out the tour almost exactly as planned. They were surprised that in Japan, whether for buses or temple admissions, cash only is often the norm. Since they planned to spend three more nights sightseeing in Kyoto and then continue in Tokyo, they expressed a wish for a card, so I helped all of them purchase ICOCA cards at a subway station. After visiting Kinkaku-ji and Nijo Castle, we went to the Imperial Palace, where I gave an overview before having them join the English-language guided group starting at 14:00 (about one hour). By that point, four hours had passed (10:00–14:00), so my portion of the tour concluded there. It was an enjoyable tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKawaramachi Gojo～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 2BusKinkakuji-michi～Nijojo-mae230JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijojo-mae～Imadegawa220JPY
    Total680JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

    Hi, every one. How have you been? I am JGA tour guide Kazu. It is my great pleasure that I can introduce myself here. I am already more than 70 years old, but I believe I am still young both mentally and physically. I like walking with my customers very much. I am from Tokyo, but now

    I live in Kyoto traditional city and an old capital of Japan. I had worked at electric manufacturing company for more than 40 years. While I was working at that company, fortunately I had a lot of chances to visit many foreign countries.

    I lived in Singapore, Malaysia, Poland and Mexico. Also I visited America, Britain, and other countries. Basically I used English to proceed my job there, however I always tried to speak local languages as much as possible. Through staying other countries, I found that there were great differences of the culture or the way of thinking between those countries and Japan. I though I had a valuable experience. After I retired from the company 5 years ago, I began to work as a tour guide although I got the National English tour guide license 7 years ago. Besides English I speak Spanish but I don’t have Spanish tour guide license yet. I belong to the comany JGA and worked around 10 days a month. So far I accompanied with mu customers more than 100 groups. All of my tour was good and lucky as I was always favored with gentle and kind customers.

    My hobby is playing the guitar, dancing and learning foreign languages. I sometimes join the concert by playing the guitar, and it is fun for me. Though I like dancing, I can not dance well. I only enjoy dancing here in Japan.

    About the tour in Japan, I usually take my tourists to the famous spots in Kyoto like Kinkakuji, Kiyomizu dera, Fushimi inari, Gion area,Nishiki market and Arashiyama area. In Arashiyama area we often visit Bamboo forest,Nonomiya shrine,Togetsukyou bridge and Kimono forest. I will cope with my customers demands as much as possible so that I try to visit any places up to your requests.

    I welcome a lot for your coming to Japan. and if possible I would like to help you to visit various kind of spots in Japan especially in Kyoto. JGA is very flexible company so that I have a confidence that you will be satisfied with our attitude and hospitality. I am glad that many of my customers told that it was so nice to travel around Japan. We will and I will expect you come down to Japan any time and we are ready to help your memorable trip in Japan. I can not wait!

    Request Booking

    Sep 26, 2025
    kaylah199
    Amazing tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kazu was extraordinary! He planned a wonderful day for…

    Jul 30, 2024
    Venture826497
    Great time in Kyoto!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My daughter and I had an amazing time…

    Jul 8, 2024
    233vickies
    6 hour Kyoto tour with Kazu
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Government-Licensed Guide and Vehicle (Max 7 persons)
    We had…

    Jun 21, 2024
    Hoc_N
    A fascinating experience in Kyoto we won’t forget
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The most memorable parts…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Monkey Park

    Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Monkey Park

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:45 Hotel pick-up (by taxi)
    • 　9:10 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 10: 20 Sannenzaka, Yasaka Pagoda
    • 11:00 Strolling around Gion
    • 11:20 Transfer from Gion-Shijo Station to Sanjo Station, switch to taxi
    • 12:00 Arrive at restaurant, lunch (Japanese cuisine Joy) Walk to Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 13:00 Kinkaku-ji Temple (by taxi toward Arashiyama)
    • 14:20 Monkey Park
    • 　Extension requested
    • 15:10 Tenryu-ji Temple ~ Bamboo Grove
    • 17:00 Finish at the Kyoto Station subway boarding area

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like Visiting Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji, and Arashiyama? A Licensed Guide's Report During the tour, the guests wished to visit the Monkey Park, so the tour was extended until 5:00 pm. Before the tour, the guests had requested to visit Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji, Arashiyama, and Fushimi Inari all in one day. Since covering all of these in six hours would be difficult, I suggested that the guests visit Fushimi Inari on their own. On the day, in the Arashiyama area, in addition to the bamboo grove, the guests also wished to visit the Monkey Park, so we decided to extend the tour. The guests were visiting from North America. One of the guests had a very serious allergy (with cross-contamination risk), so we had to be very careful about meals. In the end, the guests ate a packed lunch they had brought (only rice and some special meat), which the restaurant kindly allowed. (I mentioned it to the restaurant, and while they said it was not permitted as a rule, they were busy and seemed to overlook it.) Since the guests wished to visit many places in one day, they had agreed to use taxis from the outset. As it was a hot and humid day, this was a great help. Fortunately, we were able to use a five-seater taxi twice. Some of the guests had deep interest in Japanese culture and asked many questions. The guests seemed to enjoy the Monkey Park the most.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKeihan Train (Gion-Shijo Station)～(Sanjo Station)170JPY
    Section 2TrainSaga-Arashiyama Station～Kyoto Station240JPY
    Total410JPY

    Tour Report by Anne

    Hello, I am Atsuko Hori. My nickname is “Anne” because I’m a big fan of ” Anne of Green Gables”. I am cheerful, talkative and punctual. I’ve been doing guiding more than ten years mainly in Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka. I am especially familiar with ” Geisha Districts”, where traditional Japanese dancers live. I graduated from the university of Education in Nara. I love kids. Actually I have three grandchildren. I like history, architecture and local foods. My motto is giving the best hospitality to my guests. I think we will have a good time during the tour. Would you like to join my tour?

    Request Booking

    Sep 13, 2024
    connormA415PD
    Memorable Tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Anne was lovely & very…

    Jul 3, 2024
    Cosmopolitan691874
    Private Kyoto Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our family had an amazing time with Anne in…

    May 31, 2024
    Clare_A
    Once in a lifetime experience
    Viator review: Kyoto Gion Tour Maiko or Geisha Dinner Included
    Great tour with Ann who was…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Nakano Broadway & Shimokitazawa

    Tokyo in One Day: Nakano Broadway & Shimokitazawa

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @Hilton Tokyo
    • Shinjuku: Omoide-yokocho/ Giant Cat Screen/ Don Quijote
    • 11:30 @Nakano Broadway
    • 12:30 @Kichijoji
    • Lunch @Minmin
    • 　　　Hamonika-yokocho/ Snoopy shop
    • 14:30 @Shimokitazawa
    • 16:00 Disband @Shinjuku Station

    What Are Some Off-the-Beaten-Track Tokyo Spots? A Private Tour Report from a Licensed Guide The guests came from North America. They had already finished a cruise tour and were spending a few days in Tokyo before returning home, and had already visited the major sightseeing spots. Through our prior communication I received a list of places they wanted to see, and from that list I guided them to the spots that would be difficult to reach on their own. One of the guests had twisted a leg during the trip and tended to walk a little slowly, so we moved by escalator or elevator whenever possible, and after consulting with the guests we reduced the number of destinations a little. Since Shimokitazawa has small shops scattered all around, I had one of the guests wait at a coffee shop near the station and guided only the other guest around. The route ended up being quite off the beaten track, covering Nakano Broadway, Harmonica Yokocho, and Shimokitazawa, and I was glad they seemed to enjoy it. However, perhaps because it was still early in the day, many of the shops in Nakano Broadway and Harmonica Yokocho were still closed, which I felt a little sorry about.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Nakano170JPY
    Section 2TrainNakano～Kichijoji180JPY
    Section 3TrainKichijoji～Shimokitazawa210JPY
    Section 4TrainShimokitazawa～Shinjuku170JPY
    Total730JPY

    Tour Report by Yoko

    I’m Yoko Kusumoto, a government lisenced English-speaking guide.
    I have been living in Tokyo for more than 20 years, and it’s my pleasure to show you around Tokyo. I recommend Meiji Shrine and Asakusa if you are first time in Japan. I also recommend off-the-beaton path spots like Fukagawa Fudodo and Gotokuji Temple(lucky cat temple).
    I was born and brought up in Kamakura, where the first shogun’s government was established. It will be my pleasure to introduce you my hometown as well.

    I live with my husband and one teenage son.
    I like traveling, flowers, sewing, quilting, scrapbooking, and exploring Tokyo.

    I’m looking forward to hearing from you soon.

    Request Booking

    Sep 22, 2026
    grenfell69
    Half-day tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    While visiting Tokyo we chose the Customized…

    Jun 2, 2026
    ericahT6840AD
    Awesome!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our day with Yoko was great! She took us to some…

    May 20, 2026
    CharKris17
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Walking Tour
    We did a six-hour walking tour of Tokyo with…

    May 3, 2026
    jefftK1794VZ
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fantastic day exploring Tokyo
    This was our first time visiting Tokyo and…

  • Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour

    Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour

    Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:00 Meet @ Hotel Himeji
    • 2. 10:20 @ Shosha-zan Engyoji Temple (Bell of Compassion, Maniden Hall, Great Lecture Hall, Jogyodo Hall, Dining Hall)
    • 3. 12:30 Lunch @ Kassuiken
    • 4. 13:00 @ Koko-en Garden
    • 5. 13:40 @ Himeji Castle
    • 6. 15:50 Disband @ Himeji Station North Exit

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Himeji Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Engyoji, Koko-en, and Himeji Castle Today's guests were a group from North America visiting Japan for the first time. They were planning to stay in Japan for about a month and had already visited many sightseeing spots. Today we met at a hotel in Himeji, visited Engyoji Temple on Mount Shosha, Koko-en Garden, and Himeji Castle, and then ended the tour at Himeji Station. Although it did not rain, it was a hot and humid day, and frequent hydration was necessary. Even so, the guests kept exclaiming "beautiful, beautiful" wherever we went and took many photos. Since schools overseas were on summer vacation, there were many student tourists visiting Japan, but overall there were not too many tourists, so we were able to move around smoothly. The guests were delighted, saying that today's sightseeing was a "double thumbs up." I was very glad.

    Click here for more details: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Bus[Shinki Bus Himeji Station Front] Station～[Shinki Bus Shosha] Station310JPY
    Section 2Bus[Engyoji Microbus Round Trip (Shinojo Ropeway Mountaintop Station～Maniden below)]500JPY
    Section 3Bus[Shinki Bus Shosha] Station～[Shinki Bus Koko-en Front] Station310JPY
    Total1,120JPY

    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…

  • 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

    • 10:00 Hotel – 11:00 Fukagawa Fudodo – 11:45 Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine – 12:30 Tsukiji Outer Market – 13:15 Lunch – 14:30 Imperial Palace East Gardens – 16:00 Tokyo Station Marunouchi North Exit – 16:40 Dismissal at the Keiyo Line Tokyo Station platform

    What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Day Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time. On this private Tokyo tour, I first recommended the goma fire ritual at Fukagawa Fudodo, where they experienced the striking, powerful sound of the ceremony, which became their first stop. It gave them a chance to encounter Buddhism, which was largely unfamiliar to them. At the neighboring Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine, they were astonished by the height of sumo wrestlers and the size of their handprints. When we visited the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, where one can learn about history, they thoroughly enjoyed the contrast between the modern cityscape of Otemachi and Marunouchi and the traditional features dating back to the Edo period, such as the stone walls, moats, and the Fujimi-yagura watchtower.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShiomi～Hatchobori167JPY
    Section 2SubwayHatchobori～Monzen-nakacho178JPY
    Section 3SubwayMonzen-nakacho～Tsukiji-shijo178JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji～Otemachi178JPY
    Total701JPY

    Tour Report by Michio

    Welcome to Japan. My name is Michio, your tour guide in Tokyo and Japan. I was born and grown up in Tokyo, and still living in western suburb of Tokyo with my wife, except for 10 years outside of Japan travelling and living in 60 countries. So I might have visited your country and still remember a few words.
    Japan has unique history, nature and culture, and there are plenty of secrets and wonders behind them such as food culture, Zen and Ninja.
    So please explore and discover the hidden and most beautiful part of Japan together. Let’s experience!

    Request Booking

    Oct 25, 2025
    Carla_G
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking…
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking tour was fantastic! Michio…

    Oct 24, 2025
    410trishab
    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 10/10 — Outstanding Tour with Michio and Nobuhiko!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from…

    Oct 11, 2025
    GoPlaces52694049181
    We enjoyed our time in Tokyo with Michio our tour guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We…

    Oct 10, 2025
    PiscesV
    Sushi for breakfast at 630am? Yes please!!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Kinkaku-ji & Kyoto Pokemon Center

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Kinkaku-ji & Kyoto Pokemon Center

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • Due to sudden circumstances of the customer (son fell ill), the start time was changed to 11:30 (originally 10:00-)
    • 11:30 Meet at the hotel
    • 11:40-12:30 Bus ride (Sanjo → Kinkaku-ji)
    • 12:30-13:00 Lunch
    • 13:00-13:50 Visit Kinkaku-ji
    • 13:50-14:10 Bus ride (Kinkaku-ji → Nijojo-mae)
    • 14:10-14:15 Subway/Tozai Line ride (Nijojo-mae → Nijojo)
    • 14:20-14:50 Surpla Kyoto Asobi Town
    • 14:50-15:00 Subway ride (Nijojo → Karasuma Shijo)
    • 15:00-15:20 Kyoto Pokemon Center
    • 15:20-15:30 Subway ride (Karasuma Shijo → Keihan Sanjo)
    • Tour ends

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like When the Itinerary Changes at the Last Minute? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests requested a change to the tour content the day before, so part of the itinerary was adjusted on short notice. The start time on the day of the tour was also changed at their request. (Originally planned / agreed in advance with the guests) Kinkaku-ji → lunch → Nijo Castle (Changed on the day / a request was made to reconsider the content to something more enjoyable / what was actually carried out) Lunch → Kinkaku-ji → an amusement town in Kyoto (a game arcade) → the Kyoto Pokemon Center Kinkaku-ji was quite hot, so sightseeing there seemed a little tough for the guests. I believe the game arcade and the Pokemon Center were satisfying for the guests. There were various changes, including the request to reconsider the itinerary the day before and the change of time on the day of the tour, but since the guests had their own circumstances, I proceeded in a way that met their requests as much as possible. I believe they were satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKeihan Sanjo～Kinkaku-ji-mae230JPY
    Section 2BusKinkaku-ji-mae～Nijojo-mae230JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijojo-mae～Nijo220JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijo～Shijo Karasuma220JPY
    Section 5SubwayShijo Karasuma～Keihan Sanjo220JPY
    Total1,120JPY

    Tour Report by Michi

    My name is (Mr.)Michiharu Aioi and I worked at Electronic Manufacturing Company (Panasonic) for more than 40 years in charge of overseas sales.
    I learned a lot in these 40 years and now I would like to contribute to the promotion of mutual understanding with foreign countries being involved in tourism busines utilizing my long experience in my previous company. I will do my best to make each trip very fruitful for each foreign visitor.
    As for my language ability, in addition to English, I can speak Spanish which I used in my job and I can communicate with Chinese people with intermediate level. Finally It is my great pleasure if my activity could work in the mutual understang with foreign visitors. Thanks a Lot !

    Request Booking

    Aug 4, 2026
    Elie_S
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Wonderful and informative walking tour with Michi
    We had a lovely…

    Jul 19, 2026
    Wander35832177180
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Kyoto temple tour
    Our Kyoto guided tour (Aioi Michiharu) was a…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Abby_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour. Highly recommend
    Michi our guide was excellent!…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Javier P
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto gems
    Michi was incredibly courteous and informative.…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up @Mimaru Kyoto Station
    • 2. 10:25 @Nijo Castle
    • 3. 12:10 @Kinkaku-ji
    • 4.13:20 @Ryoan-ji
    • 5.14:10 Disband @Inside the JR bus bound for Kyoto Station

    What Is a 4-Hour Private Tour of Kyoto's UNESCO World Heritage Sites Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. They entrusted me with a 4-hour itinerary, so I selected the three UNESCO World Heritage sites mentioned above. Although it was hot, the guests enjoyed the tour. When I asked about lunchtime, they chose to prioritize sightseeing and skip lunch, planning to eat near Kyoto Station after we parted ways. I provided recommendations for restaurants around Kyoto Station, and in front of Ryoan-ji Temple we boarded a bus heading in the same direction before parting ways. They were very satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto～Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijojo-mae～Nishioji Oike220JPY
    Section 3BusNishioji Oike～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 4BusKinkakuji-michi～Ryoanji-mae230JPY
    Total940JPY

    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…

  • 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

    • 0900 Meet at Hotel Shiodome Italia-gai (midway between JR Hamamatsucho Station and Shimbashi Station). Had trouble adjusting the smartphone SUICA which wasn't working in Hamamatsucho.
    • 1000 Shibuya, Hachiko statue, scramble crossing
    • 1030 Harajuku, overview explanation at Meiji Jingu First Torii, Takeshita Street
    • 1150 Nezu Shrine, Yanaka Ginza
    • 1330 Asakusa, lunch at Hidakaya, Sensoji Temple, Nakamise
    • Originally we planned to disband at Akihabara afterward, but due to the extreme heat and jet lag, they wanted to return to the hotel once and go out again after sunset, so I saw them off to Shimbashi Station and we parted ways.

    # What Is a Private Tokyo Tour Like for a Group of Young Overseas Guests? A Licensed Guide's Report Because a travel agency acted as an intermediary, the profile of the guests was completely unknown until we met. As I had neither an email address nor a phone number, there was no way to contact them even after arriving at the Hotel. Just as I was thinking of asking the front desk to make an in-house call, the guests appeared. (The SMS I had sent earlier had actually gone to the agency in North America.) The guests were a group visiting from the Middle East. They had backgrounds from various countries and had just finished school. There seemed to be a slightly delicate atmosphere within the group. Since they came from the Middle East, I was mindful about whether there might be dietary restrictions such as Islamic ones, but there were no restrictions at all. After arriving the night before and for breakfast this morning, they thoroughly enjoyed rice balls from a convenience store. During the tour as well, whenever they spotted a convenience store, they would go in to stock up on water, and each time they would also eat rice balls and fried chicken. In the Yanaka-Nezu-Sendagi area, they did not eat anything besides convenience store items, so I thought lunch might not be needed. However, in Asakusa they asked, "What about lunch?" When I asked what they would like, they said ramen, so we ended up eating at a ramen restaurant. After visiting Senso-ji Temple, the original plan was to guide them to Akihabara and then part ways. However, today was extremely hot, and they were overwhelmed by a level of humidity they had never experienced back home, so they decided to return to the Hotel once and go out again in the evening. We parted ways at Shimbashi Station.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHamamatsucho～Shibuya208JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya～Harajuku146JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nezu209JPY
    Section 4TrainNippori～Ueno146JPY
    Section 5SubwayUeno～Asakusa178JPY
    Section 6SubwayAsakusa～Shimbashi209JPY
    Total1,096JPY

    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
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    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

    Jun 26, 2026
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    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…

  • Hyogo: Hamafukutsuru Ginjo Kobo & Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum

    Hyogo: Hamafukutsuru Ginjo Kobo & Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum

    Nada Sake Breweries Kobe Local Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet @ JR Sannomiya Station
    • 10:45 @ Hamafukutsuru Ginjo Kobo
    • 11:30 @ Kikumasamune Sake Brewery Museum
    • 12:30 @ Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum
    • 14:00 Disband @ JR Sannomiya Station

    Title: What Is a Private Sake Brewery Tour Around Kobe and Sannomiya Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests appeared a little tired and moved at a somewhat slow pace, and did not seem particularly interested in sake, which made me wonder if there may have been some misunderstanding about the tour. There was even a question such as "Aren't we going to visit Suntory?" In the end, after visiting the third sake brewery, the guests mentioned they had plans in Osaka, so we parted ways at Sannomiya Station, the meeting point, about two hours ahead of schedule. I felt somewhat apologetic about it. This time a local travel agency served as the point of contact, and communication was not smooth. The phone number listed on the confirmation form was also the agency's, and although I repeatedly asked to be given the guests' contact address, I received no reply. When I asked again the day before, the response was that they did not want to trouble the guests during their trip and that everything regarding the tour should go entirely through the agency, so I was unable to request anything further. Then, on the day itself, I received a message via a messaging app saying, "There was a slight misunderstanding; it is fine to contact the guests directly," along with the guests' contact address and phone number. English communication was somewhat difficult, which may have been one reason the agency acted as an intermediary. In any case, since this was a somewhat last-minute booking, I keenly felt that there had been insufficient advance coordination.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSannomiya～Uozaki200JPY
    Section 2TrainSumiyoshi～Sannomiya200JPY
    Total400JPY

    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
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