Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Layover Customized Tour from Narita

    Tokyo Layover Customized Tour from Narita

    Tokyo Layover Customized Tour from Narita, Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 08:45 Meet at Narita Airport Terminal 2
    • 2. 09:50 Asakusa (Nakamise Street, Senso-ji Temple)
    • 3. 12:10 Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 4. 14:05 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 5. 16:15 Disband at Narita Airport Terminal 2

    What Is a Tokyo Transit Layover Tour from Narita Airport Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were transit travelers passing through Narita Airport, arriving on an overnight flight, so I made a point of planning the tour with plenty of time to spare. At Narita Airport, the guests purchased a Skyliner round-trip ticket for tourists together with a 24-hour subway ticket, and I guided them around central Tokyo. This ticket can be quite good value if used well, but unfortunately it cannot be paid for by credit card. This is a significant drawback, especially since transit guests often prefer not to exchange money into Japanese yen. Because time was limited, I guided them to three of the standard spots, and they were very pleased, commenting that next time they would like to take a bit more time to explore. A Tokyo tour departing from and returning to Narita is possible, but personally I feel that a tour visiting places such as Naritasan or Sawara would be even better.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Layover Customized Tour from Narita, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainYakuendai～Airport Terminal 2862JPY
    Section 2TrainAirport Terminal 2～Keisei Ueno2,580JPY
    Section 3SubwayUeno～Asakusa178JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa～Shimbashi220JPY
    Section 5SubwayShimbashi～Shibuya178JPY
    Section 6SubwayShibuya～Ueno209JPY
    Section 7TrainKeisei Ueno～Airport Terminal 22,580JPY
    Section 8TrainAirport Terminal 2～Yakuendai862JPY
    Total7,669JPY

    Tour Report by Nobu

    Hi, I am Nobu, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English).
    I have been an English guide in Tokyo area since January 2017.
    Tokyo is a wonderful city, and you may enjoy this city by yourselves.
    Even so, I recommend you go around with a guide, especially if it is your first time visit to Tokyo.
    A good guide will help you to understand about Tokyo and Japan as well as how to use convenient but complicated public transportations more effectively.
    I am glad if I can help you to make your tour more enjoyable.
    I am looking forward to meeting you in Tokyo soon!
    Nobu

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    Jun 2, 2026
    amandavW9846AW
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Tokyo day trip!
    We had a wonderfull day with Nobu! He…

    May 25, 2026
    Matthew_C
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nobu was an excellent and…
    Nobu was an excellent and informative guide…

    May 24, 2026
    Diane D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Pleasant Intro to Tokyo
    Nobu was an experienced and informative guide.…

    Apr 28, 2026
    GrandTour57165664797
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Awesome!
    It was our first visit to Japan. Nobu was very knowledgeable…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • １．8:00 Meeting at Hotel
    • ２．8:45 Tokyo Station Building
    • ３．9:00 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • ４．10:30 Asakusa Sensoji Temple and Nakamise
    • ５．11:30 Shibuya Crossing
    • ６．12:30 Meiji Shrine
    • ７．13:30 Harajuku Omotesando
    • ８．14:00 Dismissal at Omotesando

    What Does a Private One-Day Walking Tour of Tokyo Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Asakusa, Shibuya, and Meiji Shrine Because we started early at 8:00, we viewed the Imperial Palace Outer Garden and the palace grounds, then entered right at the 9:00 opening of the Otemon Gate. We exited through the Kitahanebashi Gate, and from Takebashi we headed to Senso-ji Temple and the Nakamise shopping street in Asakusa. Although it was still morning, the area was as crowded as ever, so after paying our respects while avoiding the congestion, the guests enjoyed a melon bread filled with ice cream. On the Ginza Line we were able to sit and rest while moving toward the Shibuya Crossing. On a holiday, the midday crossing was crowded just as expected, which was wonderful. To experience how the multiple subway lines at Shibuya intersect in such a three-dimensional way, we descended deep down to the Fukutoshin Line platform on the fifth basement level, then traveled to Meiji Shrine. After visiting the shrine, I recommended some lunch options and we parted ways. During the tour I helped take a considerable number of family photos, and the guests seemed very satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassNishi-Shinjuku～Tokyo600JPY
    Section 2Free PassTakebashi～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 3Free PassAsakusa～Shibuya0JPY
    Section 4Free PassShibuya～Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Total600JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Akihabara

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Akihabara

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10：00　Meet up @ Hotel Indigo Tokyo Shibuya
    • 10：20　Meiji Shrine
    • 11：30 Imperial Palace
    • 12：20　Lunch @ Tokyo Station underground mall ramen shop (Soranoiro NIPPON)
    • 13：50　Sensoji Temple
    • 15：00　Akihabara
    • 16：10　Disband @ Hotel Indigo Tokyo Shibuya

    What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America for the first time, planning to travel to Kyoto after sightseeing in Tokyo. They seemed deeply impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere of Meiji Shrine and the Imperial Palace. At Senso-ji Temple, the guests enjoyed shopping for souvenirs and other items. We had lunch at a ramen restaurant that offered options suited to their preferences. Since I responded to 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 1TrainShibuya～Harajuku150JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nijubashimae600JPY
    Section 3TrainTokyo～Ueno170JPY
    Section 4SubwayUeno～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa～Suehirocho0JPY
    Section 6TrainAkihabara～Shimbashi170JPY
    Section 7SubwayShimbashi～Shibuya0JPY
    Total1,090JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Imperial Palace

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Imperial Palace

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at Hotel Blossom Shinjuku
    • 10:00　Meiji Shrine
    • 11:00　Takeshita Street
    • 12:30　Shibuya　＆　Lunch＠Scramble Square Restaurant
    • 14:30　Imperial Palace
    • 16:00　Dismiss at Shinjuku Marui

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Walking Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Some of the guests enjoyed parks and nature, while others liked cute character goods, so we first visited Meiji Shrine. The irises in the inner garden happened to be in full bloom, and since they very much wanted to see them, we entered the garden. On Takeshita Street and in Shibuya, some of the guests bought many cute character goods. We then moved to the Imperial Palace, where they took many photos of the neatly arranged pine trees in the outer garden. Finally, they wished to visit a character goods shop inside a department store in Shinjuku, so we went there and parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinjuku～Yoyogi900JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Shibuya0JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya～Nijubashimae0JPY
    Section 4SubwaySakuradamon～Shinjuku-sanchome0JPY
    Total900JPY

    Tour Report by Steve

    Hello, Welcome to Japan! I would like to guide your journey in Japan which will be wonderful and fantastic.
    I was born at Tokyo, have lived 60 years. There are many traditional and modern spots in Tokyo , You can enjoy and feel the contrast between them,
    Please let me know which spots you are interested in, or would you like me to recommend popular spots?
    Japanese food tastes great too. I am also a Sake Sommelier, Sake is Japanese alcohol made from rice with a refined and mild taste.
    Sake tasting would be a fun for you.

    I am sharing self introduction and scenery in Japan(incl outside of Tokyo) by my web site & Instagram,
    Please look at, when you have a time.
    https://stevejpntour.wixsite.com/japan-tour
    Instagram :steve.jpguide
    Thank you very much and looking forward to seeing you ! Steve

    Request Booking

    Jun 11, 2026
    Melissa_M
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    All the hits in in six short hours in Tokyo
    Lots of…

    Jun 7, 2026
    lornew449
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    4 hour tour in Tokyo with Steve!
    Steve was a great tour…

    May 20, 2026
    KateGolo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful Tour of Tokyo
    We had a wonderful tour of Tokyo, and…

    May 19, 2026
    sheilacL3330KS
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    I very interesting tour and also the shopping street.
    Steve was an…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • ① 10:00　Meet at hotel (Hotel Alza Kyoto)
    • ② 10:40　Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • ③ 11:45　Nijo Castle
    • ④ 12:50　Lunch (Sanjo Street)
    • ⑤ 13:40　Pontocho ~ Gion stroll ~ Gion Kaburenjo Theater ~ Yasui Konpira Shrine ~ Sannenzaka (Yasaka Pagoda)
    • ⑥ 14:40　Disband in front of Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Can You Do a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Around Higashiyama and Gion? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, and this was their first trip to Japan, so the destinations were chosen in response to their requests. This afternoon it became very hot and humid, and the guests grew quite exhausted. We had planned to visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple as well, but after climbing Sannenzaka and Kiyomizuzaka and arriving at the top, they ran out of stamina, so we parted ways a little ahead of schedule. Originally from South America, the guests observed with great surprise the differences between their homeland, North America, and the way Japanese society works, and their observations were very memorable. At the same time, they asked with genuine interest about basic yet difficult-to-grasp topics for visitors, such as how Japanese people balance their faith given the coexistence of Shinto and Buddhism (shinbutsu-shugo). As additional information, I recently went to preview the Gion Kagai Art Museum, which opened in May inside the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo along Hanamikoji Street. For an admission fee of 1,600 yen, the course through the museum includes displays of kimono, hairpins, and other items used by geiko and maiko, panel explanations, a garden stroll, and the chance to step onto the actual stage of the "Miyako Odori" to experience its atmosphere. In the afternoon only, at 13:30, 14:20, 15:00, and 16:00, you can also watch an approximately 10-minute dance performance by geiko and maiko for an additional 1,500 yen. For a further 2,000 yen, there is also a photo session with the geiko and maiko after the performance mentioned above. It could work as one option for a Gion stroll, but since one would want the guests to see the live performance, the afternoon would be necessary time-wise, requiring at least around 60 minutes, and the cost comes to over 3,000 yen per person. Guides accompanying guests can enter for free, but they reportedly cannot watch the performance.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNijojo-mae～Sanjo Keihan220JPY
    Total220JPY

    Tour Report by Kazu

    Hello, this is Kazu Akiyama, your tour guide. Nice to meet you and welcome to Japan. Thank you for joining me on the tour. Now I am a retired salaried worker, living in Osaka. I have been very much interested in not only learning Japanese history, culture, religion myself, but also talking about them (sometimes going off topics) in English with tourists from all over the world as well. I am so excited being with you as your guide on coming day! I am very much looking forward to you enjoying with me visiting the must-see places and some of the hidden gems. See you soon. Thank you – Kazu Akiyama

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    Jul 29, 2026
    James_G
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great guide and very…
    Great guide and very knowledgeable.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    peterhR6472GA
    Kyoto highlights with Kazu.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with Kazu…

    Jul 12, 2026
    cgalvez73
    Fantastic tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our guide in Kyoto was Kazu.…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Winni_H
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Highly recommended when in Kyoto
    Our tour guide…

  • Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 ツアー開始：ふふ奈良
    • 9:50 春日大社
    • 10:40 若草山のふもと：元刀鍛冶屋の店
    • 11:00 東大寺
    • 東大寺二月堂
    • 11:30 東大寺鐘楼
    • 11:50 東大寺大仏殿
    • 12:50 東大寺南大門
    • 13:30 吉城園
    • 13:50 氷室神社
    • 14:10 興福寺
    • 14:30 ならまち（町の旧市街）：日本酒の試飲など
    • 15:30 ツアー終了（ふふ奈良へ戻る）

    What Is a Private Nara Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Buddhist and Ancient History The guests seemed to find it very interesting when I explained how the ancient East and West had surprisingly deep connections, such as the story of how Heracles was incorporated into Buddhism to become Shukongoshin (Nio). I was also fortunate to have the opportunity to visit the hotel where the guests were staying, which was built a few years ago in Nara, and to talk with the staff there. The grounds of the hotel were likely once part of the former precincts of Kofukuji Temple. If I have the chance in the future, I would like to research the relationship between this location and the Meiji Restoration, the ordinance separating Shinto and Buddhism, the land reversion ordinance, and the anti-Buddhist movement. Thank you once again to all the staff at [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) for your support this time.

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

    Tour Report by Junichi

    Hello! Thank you for choosing Nara! I bet you’ll love Nara. I specialize in Nara because Nara is the unique place where in one day you can cover the history and religions of Japan from the ancient times to the post war era while enjoying rambling in the UNESCO World Heritage park, having communication with lovely deer, surrounded with the beautiful nature.
    I grew up in Nara, went university in Kyoto, enjoyed teaching at high schools and a university in Osaka. The three former capitals of Japan are home to me.
    After retiring from teaching I began guiding so that I can meet various people from various corners of the world with a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Each time I guide, I find it hugely rewarding because I learn a lot from my guests sharing the history, culture and all that I know about Nara, Kyoto and Osaka.
    I used to be a marathon runner, mountain climber and skier though I am not much of them anymore.
    What I especially recommend is to stay in Nara a couple of days and enjoy communicating with friendly deer while visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nara in early morning, temples and shrines at night are well worth experiencing.

    Request Booking

    May 16, 2026
    I3520JTcristinat
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nara with family
    Excellent tour with Junichi!!! Perfect English speaking guide and…

    May 3, 2026
    Maria_J
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyable day in Nara
    We spent 6 hours in Nara with Junichi…

    Apr 11, 2026
    64sandig
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Osaka DEP. with Licensed Guide
    ????? Absolutely Outstanding ? Junichi Made Our Nara Day…

    Mar 30, 2026
    dpadillachavez
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
    Great day at Nara!
    Best tour on Nara, Junichi…

  • Nara in One Day: JR Horyuji on the train

    Nara in One Day: JR Horyuji on the train

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:07 JR Horyuji (Start of Tour) on the train
    • 10:18 JR Nara Station
    • 10:50 Kofukuji Temple， National Treasure Hall
    • →　Ukimido Hall
    • 12:00 Kasuga-taisha Shrine
    • 13:00 Mizuya Chaya　Light lunch　Udon
    • 13:20 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill: former katana sword manufacturer's shop
    • 13:50 Todaiji Temple
    • Todaiji's Nigatsudo Hall
    • 14:00 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower
    • 14:10-40 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall
    • 14:50 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate)
    • 15:20 Nara-machi (Old Quarters of the town): sake tasting etc.
    • 16:40 End of Tour at Naramachi

    Title: What Is a Private Nara Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe who worked in the music industry. When I mentioned that I had read a great deal of Saroyan, one of the guests was delighted. One of the guests shared the thought, "I'm not religious, but if it means the original Shinto you describe, I think I'd be happy to call myself a Shintoist." Since it was Children's Day, there was a gagaku (traditional court music) performance scheduled at the Manyo Botanical Garden, but after watching some gagaku on YouTube beforehand, the guests decided it was not worth giving up other things to attend, so we skipped it. It was a day on which the deer did about half of my job as a guide.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainJR Horyuji～JR Nara230JPY
    Total230JPY

    Tour Report by Junichi

    Hello! Thank you for choosing Nara! I bet you’ll love Nara. I specialize in Nara because Nara is the unique place where in one day you can cover the history and religions of Japan from the ancient times to the post war era while enjoying rambling in the UNESCO World Heritage park, having communication with lovely deer, surrounded with the beautiful nature.
    I grew up in Nara, went university in Kyoto, enjoyed teaching at high schools and a university in Osaka. The three former capitals of Japan are home to me.
    After retiring from teaching I began guiding so that I can meet various people from various corners of the world with a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Each time I guide, I find it hugely rewarding because I learn a lot from my guests sharing the history, culture and all that I know about Nara, Kyoto and Osaka.
    I used to be a marathon runner, mountain climber and skier though I am not much of them anymore.
    What I especially recommend is to stay in Nara a couple of days and enjoy communicating with friendly deer while visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nara in early morning, temples and shrines at night are well worth experiencing.

    Request Booking

    May 16, 2026
    I3520JTcristinat
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nara with family
    Excellent tour with Junichi!!! Perfect English speaking guide and…

    May 3, 2026
    Maria_J
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyable day in Nara
    We spent 6 hours in Nara with Junichi…

    Apr 11, 2026
    64sandig
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Osaka DEP. with Licensed Guide
    ????? Absolutely Outstanding ? Junichi Made Our Nara Day…

    Mar 30, 2026
    dpadillachavez
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
    Great day at Nara!
    Best tour on Nara, Junichi…

  • Osaka: Hilton Garden Inn Kyoto Shijo Karasuma

    Osaka: Hilton Garden Inn Kyoto Shijo Karasuma

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    May, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hilton Garden Inn Kyoto Shijo Karasuma
    • 10:10 Gojo station (Kyoto City Subway)
    • 11:20 Nara station (Kintetsu railway)
    • 11:30 Kofukuji Temple (UNESCO World Heritage)
    • 12:30 Kasuga-taisha Shrine (UNESCO World Heritage) (light lunch?)
    • 13:00 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill: former katana sword manufacturer's shop
    • 13:30 Todaiji Temple (UNESCO World Heritage):
    • Nigatsudo Hall (light lunch?)
    • 14:00 Shoro Bell Tower
    • 14:20 Great Buddha Hall
    • 15:00 Nandaimon (South Great Gate)
    • 16:00 Nara-machi (Old Quarters of the town): sake tasting etc.
    • 17:00 back at Kintesu Nara Station
    • The guest said "I'm already very satisfied, I want to return to the hotel and rest," so we finished one hour early.

    What's a Private Day Tour of Nara Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on History, Deer, and Sake Tasting The weather was wonderful and it turned out to be a perfect day. Helped along by the fine weather, the deer, and a sake tasting, I was able to enjoyably explain the history of Nara and how Shinto and Buddhism differ from Christianity. The guests were quiet and reserved. One of the guests was very eager to learn, mentioning that although they had once worked at a major electronics company, they had never experienced Japan outside of work. Another guest was a specialist in genealogy and showed interest in the family tree charts displayed at the Kofukuji National Treasure Museum. Since the guests said they were fully satisfied and wished to return to the Hotel to rest, we finished about one hour early. My thanks not only to the guests but also to all the staff at [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/).

    Click here for more details: Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGojo (Kyoto City Subway)～Kintetsu Nara1,020JPY
    Total1,020JPY

    Tour Report by Junichi

    Hello! Thank you for choosing Nara! I bet you’ll love Nara. I specialize in Nara because Nara is the unique place where in one day you can cover the history and religions of Japan from the ancient times to the post war era while enjoying rambling in the UNESCO World Heritage park, having communication with lovely deer, surrounded with the beautiful nature.
    I grew up in Nara, went university in Kyoto, enjoyed teaching at high schools and a university in Osaka. The three former capitals of Japan are home to me.
    After retiring from teaching I began guiding so that I can meet various people from various corners of the world with a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Each time I guide, I find it hugely rewarding because I learn a lot from my guests sharing the history, culture and all that I know about Nara, Kyoto and Osaka.
    I used to be a marathon runner, mountain climber and skier though I am not much of them anymore.
    What I especially recommend is to stay in Nara a couple of days and enjoy communicating with friendly deer while visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nara in early morning, temples and shrines at night are well worth experiencing.

    Request Booking

    May 16, 2026
    I3520JTcristinat
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nara with family
    Excellent tour with Junichi!!! Perfect English speaking guide and…

    May 3, 2026
    Maria_J
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyable day in Nara
    We spent 6 hours in Nara with Junichi…

    Apr 11, 2026
    64sandig
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Osaka DEP. with Licensed Guide
    ????? Absolutely Outstanding ? Junichi Made Our Nara Day…

    Mar 30, 2026
    dpadillachavez
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
    Great day at Nara!
    Best tour on Nara, Junichi…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Shinsekai

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Shinsekai

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00　Meet guests at the hotel
    • 9:30　Osaka Castle
    • 11:15　Shitennoji Temple
    • 12:15　Shinsekai
    • 13:00　End

    Title: What's a Private Half-Day Osaka Tour Like? Osaka Castle, Shitennoji, and Shinsekai with a Licensed Guide The tour started at 9:00. Since the guests' hotel was close to the nearest station for Osaka Castle, we arrived by 9:30. As a result, it was relatively uncrowded, and we were able to look around at a leisurely pace. The guests were very knowledgeable about Japan and were familiar with figures such as Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu, so they explored the grounds with great enthusiasm. Since we spent a little too long at Osaka Castle, I guided them through Shitennoji Temple at a slightly faster pace. Even so, we went inside and viewed the central temple complex. Finally, I showed them Shinsekai in a short amount of time. Just before 13:00, the guests invited me to have lunch together, and we lined up at a famous kushikatsu restaurant. The guests seemed very satisfied with the local Osaka food.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassHommachi～Tanimachi 4-chome620JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka0JPY
    Section 3SubwayShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka～Dobutsuen-mae0JPY
    Total620JPY

    Tour Report by Yoshi

    I am Yoshi, a Nara Local Government Licensed Guide Interpreter and also, a National Government Licensed Interepreter.
    Let’s go out! The Kansai region was the center of Japan for a long time. It was from the 4th century to 19th century. Thus the Kansai region is rich in scenic and historic interest. Why don’t we see, feel, and find so many attractions in Nara Kyoto and Osaka. I was born and raised in Nara. Also I have been to Osaka and Kyoto for working, shopping and dining. I can show you not only major tourist spots but also shops and delicious food that only locals know. I am looking forward to sharing wonderful moments with you!

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    May 29, 2025
    Dana_K
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    Aug 16, 2024
    Dylan_N
    Yoshi was a great tour guide
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    We had a great experience with…

    Jun 9, 2024
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  • Osaka in One Day: JR Nara Station & Nara Park : Playing with deer

    Osaka in One Day: JR Nara Station & Nara Park : Playing with deer

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • Originally scheduled for 10:51
    • 12:21 JR Nara Station (Start of Tour)
    • Taxi to
    • 12:40 Todaiji Great Buddha Hall
    • 13:50 Todaiji Nandaimon (South Great Gate)
    • 14:00 Nara Park (Ukigumo Enchi): Playing with deer
    • 　　　 Nara Kasugano International Forum Iraka
    • Taxi to
    • 16:30 JR Nara Station (End of Tour)

    What Is a Short Private Nara Tour Like for Guests with Limited Walking? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. During our advance communication, I had been told that one of them could not walk very much, but the night before the tour I suddenly received a message via a messaging app saying, "One of us is not feeling well. We would like to cancel." When I asked for more details, it turned out that the person had a chronic back condition. I suggested, "If you feel better in the morning, why don't we do a very quick and short Nara tour?" After what seemed to be some discussion between them, they replied, "In that case, let's not cancel and do a quick tour instead!" On the day, we took a taxi to the Great Buddha Hall, then walked to the Nandaimon Gate and saw only a small part of Nara Park and the deer. Because of the rain, there were relatively few tourists, and luckily the deer were very hungry, so they interacted with us a lot. Perhaps because of how they were feeling, the guest was completely silent at first, but while looking out over the garden at Kasugano Forum and talking about Nara, Buddhism, and Shinto, they gradually became more and more talkative. The guests said many times that they would like to come back to Nara again someday. According to a taxi driver who happened to arrive just in time at the bus stop near Kasugano Forum, "There are more than enough taxis in Nara. There are plenty of cars, but no drivers." This is surely not limited to Nara. I feel that the inbound tourism industry needs to push much harder to get the government to take effective measures.

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

    Tour Report by Junichi

    Hello! Thank you for choosing Nara! I bet you’ll love Nara. I specialize in Nara because Nara is the unique place where in one day you can cover the history and religions of Japan from the ancient times to the post war era while enjoying rambling in the UNESCO World Heritage park, having communication with lovely deer, surrounded with the beautiful nature.
    I grew up in Nara, went university in Kyoto, enjoyed teaching at high schools and a university in Osaka. The three former capitals of Japan are home to me.
    After retiring from teaching I began guiding so that I can meet various people from various corners of the world with a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Each time I guide, I find it hugely rewarding because I learn a lot from my guests sharing the history, culture and all that I know about Nara, Kyoto and Osaka.
    I used to be a marathon runner, mountain climber and skier though I am not much of them anymore.
    What I especially recommend is to stay in Nara a couple of days and enjoy communicating with friendly deer while visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nara in early morning, temples and shrines at night are well worth experiencing.

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    May 16, 2026
    I3520JTcristinat
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    Excellent tour with Junichi!!! Perfect English speaking guide and…

    May 3, 2026
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    Enjoyable day in Nara
    We spent 6 hours in Nara with Junichi…

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    Mar 30, 2026
    dpadillachavez
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    Great day at Nara!
    Best tour on Nara, Junichi…