Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Pickup at the hotel in Ebisu
    • Ebisu>>Asakusa
    • ・Asakusa sightseeing
    • Nitenmon Pier>>Odaiba Kaihin Koen Pier
    • ・Odaiba sightseeing
    • Tokyo Teleport>>Harajuku
    • ・Meiji Shrine visit, Takeshita Street stroll
    • Dismissal in front of Harajuku Station

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Sumida River Cruise, Asakusa, and Meiji Shrine 1) Change to the tour itinerary ・The original plan was to stroll through the former Shiba Rikyu Garden and then take a water bus from Waters Takeshiba to Asakusa (Nitenmon Pier). However, due to strong winds, Waters Takeshiba was closed. As a result, we changed the route: we moved to Asakusa by subway and did the Asakusa sightseeing first, then headed to Odaiba from Nitenmon Pier afterward. 2) The guests' reactions ・Their flight departing from North America was delayed by a day due to a bird strike, and they came to Japan after spending a night at the airport, so they seemed tired. At the guests' strong request, I reorganized the itinerary around a Sumida River cruise by water bus, and in the end they were delighted to be able to relax and sightsee aboard the water bus. ・While taking in the views from the water bus, I explained the daily life of Tokyo residents and the formation of Tokyo (the history of this great city, including land reclamation since the Edo period, the construction of the Arakawa Drainage Channel, and the rerouting of the Tone River), which they enjoyed. ・They enjoyed the contrast between the solemn atmosphere of Meiji Shrine and the lively, energetic atmosphere of Takeshita Street.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainEbisu~Asakusa317JPY
    Section 2OtherNitenmon Pier~Odaiba Kaihin Koen Pier0JPY
    Section 3TrainTokyo Teleport~Harajuku513JPY
    Total830JPY

    Hello, I am Toru, a certified National Guide. I have been guiding since 2017, primarily in the Tokyo area, which includes Hakone, Kamakura, and Yokohama. To make your stay in Japan unforgettable, I always discuss a tour plan with my guests via email before their arrival. Please share your preferences, including the places you’d like to visit and the experiences you’d like to try during your stay in Tokyo. If this is your first visit to Japan, I’m excited to help make your time in Tokyo even more enjoyable by suggesting sample itineraries and offering travel tips.

    For more information about me, please visit my profile site.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/hello-welcome-to-japan/
    For your reference, please feel free to visit my blog, which features popular sightseeing spots and interesting experiences.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/

    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Sep 25, 2026
    robert_s
    Fantastic experience!
    Viator review: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide
    We had a tour booked with Toru…

    Sep 24, 2026
    Pamela_S
    Ask for Toru!
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our travel date for this tour…

    Sep 13, 2026
    S4579HLmaxf
    An unforgettable morning at Toyosu
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide
    Outstanding experience at the…

    Sep 7, 2026
    Victor_G
    All the temples and…
    Viator review: Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    All the temples and shrines were fantastic.…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:30 Meet up@Hotel (changed from the original hotel)
    • 2. 9:30 @Asakusa (Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, cafe break@"Kaminari Issa", Sumida Park)
    • 3. 11:15 @Akihabara
    • 4. 12:15 Lunch@Akihabara UDX
    • 5. 13:30 @Rikugien Garden
    • 6. 14:30 @Tokyo Station
    • 7. 15:00 @Higashi Gyoen Ninomaru Garden
    • 8: 16:00 Dismiss@on the Tozai Line heading toward Nishikasai

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Akihabara, Rikugien Garden, and the East Gardens The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Asia. During this trip, one of their plans was to reconnect with many friends made during their student years, and some of the guests had studied Japanese and enjoyed practicing Japanese conversation with me as a Japanese guide. In Akihabara, some of the guests found and purchased their favorite anime figures and were delighted. After that, we took a leisurely stroll through the calm atmosphere of Rikugien Garden, where they enjoyed viewing hydrangeas and various other sights. We had originally planned Odaiba as the final destination, but since one of the guests became a little tired, we changed the plan. Instead of Odaiba, we headed to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace and the Ninomaru Garden, which were on the way back to the Hotel. When I guided them to the iris field, currently in full bloom, they were very pleased. We entered the East Gardens through the Otemon Gate and left through the Hirakawamon Gate toward Takebashi Station. So that they could return to the Hotel on their own without a transfer, I boarded the Tozai Line with them, confirmed the name of their stop, and said goodbye inside the train. It seems they had a wonderful first day of sightseeing in Tokyo.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassSubway Tozai Line Nishikasai Station~Subway Ginza Line Asakusa Station1,600JPY
    Section 2Free PassSubway Ginza Line Asakusa Station~Subway Ginza Line Kanda Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassJR Yamanote Line Kanda Station~JR Yamanote Line Akihabara Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassJR Yamanote Line Akihabara Station~JR Yamanote Line Komagome Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassJR Yamanote Line Komagome Station~JR Yamanote Line Tokyo Station0JPY
    Section 6Free PassSubway Tozai Line Takebashi Station~Subway Tozai Line Nishikasai Station0JPY
    Total1,600JPY

    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…

  • Osaka in One Day: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Osaka in One Day: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at Hotel Osaka
    • 9:30 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 11:00 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 11:50 Ukiya Pontocho Main Store (lunch)
    • 12:40 Gion Tatsumi Bridge, Shirakawa Street
    • 13:00 Nishiki Market
    • 13:50 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 15:40 Disband at Hotel Osaka

    What Is a Private Family Day Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. Since the itinerary was kept relaxed and not too demanding, we did not go inside Kiyomizu-dera Temple, which allowed us to visit all of the places the guests had hoped to see. There were relatively few people today, and around the Okochi Sanso villa in the bamboo grove they were able to take photos without anyone in the frame, which delighted them. For lunch, we arrived at the Yukiya Pontocho main restaurant just before noon and were able to be seated without waiting, and the guests were very pleased with how delicious it was. At Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, the guests wrote their wishes on fox-shaped ema plaques, which was charming. I believe the guests were satisfied with the tour.

    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Tokyo Station-13:20 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace-14:45 Asakusa Lunch-15:45 Sensoji Temple-16:45 Akihabara-17:20 Tokyo Station/Dismissal

    What Is a Private Full-Day Tokyo Tour Like Including Asakusa? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a very curious visitor from the Middle East. They had already toured Kyoto's main sights, but complained repeatedly that the experience was mostly transportation with hardly any explanation. In contrast, when I explained things in detail one-on-one, the guest's reactions of surprise and admiration gave me a real sense of accomplishment. When I guided them to a ramen shop in Asakusa, they enjoyed it so much that they said they wanted to come back on their own during their stay in Tokyo. The weather was also wonderful, and I was able to let them experience Tokyo as it is today.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOtemachi~Asakusa178JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa~Akihabara210JPY
    Section 3TrainAkihabara~Tokyo Station146JPY
    Total534JPY

    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!

    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 8:00 Meet up @ Hotel Gracery Shinjuku (1-19-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 8:30 Meiji Shrine (~9:30) 
    • 3) 10:00 Imperial Palace Main Gate Nijubashi Bridge (~10:30)
    • 4) 11:00 Nezu Shrine (~11:20)
    • 5) 11:30 Yanaka <Snake Road & Shopping Street> (~12:10)
    • 6) 12:30 Kappabashi Kitchenware Town → Break @ Asakusa Panzedina
    • 7) 13:00 Sake Merchant Masuhiro (~13:20)
    • 8) 13:30 Asakusa <Nakamise Street & Sensoji Temple> (~13:50)
    • 9) 14:20 Disband @ Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harakado (6-31-21 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)

    Title: What's a Private Off-the-Beaten-Path Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. Their advance requests were to visit places tourists usually do not go, and to finish the tour in Harajuku. They had also noted other pre-booked tours (sumo watching, Mario Kart, a hedgehog cafe, teamLab, and others). I presented the itinerary by email and reconfirmed it when we met at the Hotel. They had already arrived in Japan and planned to return home the next day, and they were used to public transportation via the Suica app. They had already visited Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka, but wanted to learn about history and culture, so I explained as much as I could. Seeing the sake barrels at Meiji Jingu, they said a bartender had recommended yuzu sake and they wanted to buy some, so I decided to guide them to a sake shop in Kappabashi on the way to Asakusa. After the area around the Imperial Palace (with stories about the imperial family) and Nezu Shrine — they had also visited Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto, so the row of torii gates fell a bit flat, but I highlighted the history of the romon gate, karamon gate, and main hall — we also strolled around Yanaka Shopping Street (they bought a pastry). Then we stopped by a sake shop in Kappabashi, but it was still nearly 30 minutes before its opening time (1:00 pm), so we rested at a nearby cafe and returned. When we consulted the shop owners, they recommended a sake based on yuzu produced in Kochi, though it was not the exact brand the guests wanted, and the guests purchased four bottles. On top of that, at the owner's recommendation, they tasted plum wine and another brand of yuzu sake, and were given a small bottle of yuzu sake as a gift, which left the guests very pleased and excited. One of the guests ended up carrying all four bottles, and since we had to walk the route from the main hall of Senso-ji through the Nakamise shopping street (using only the back lanes) to the subway Asakusa Station, I guided them carefully. We arrived safely at the station nearest the final destination, KIDDY LAND, obtained consent for photo PR, and parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Marunouchi Line Shinjuku Station~Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Meiji-jingumae Station600JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station~Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Nijubashimae Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Nijubashimae Station~Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Nezu Station0JPY
    Section 4TrainJR Yamanote Line Nippori Station~JR Yamanote Line Ueno Station150JPY
    Section 5Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Ueno Station~Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Tawaramachi Station0JPY
    Section 6Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station~Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
    Total750JPY

    Hi! I’m a local guide in Tokyo and have been working as a licensed tour guide for almost 10 years. I love helping guests discover the “real Japan” beyond the guidebooks. I enjoy showing guests both famous sights and places that many tourists miss. My tours are based on your interests and can include not only famous sightseeing spots, but also local neighborhoods, culture, history, and everyday life in Japan. I also help guests enjoy Japanese cultural activities and make communication easier. If you’d like vegan or gluten-free meals, let me help you find suitable restaurants in Tokyo. If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, please feel free to let me know in advance. I look forward to showing you around Tokyo!

    Sep 6, 2026
    Paullyb
    Highly professional and relaxed tour exceeding our expectations
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tachi…

    Jun 19, 2026
    Daniel_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 would do again!
    Our guide, Tachi was incredibly accommodating, friendly, and…

    May 24, 2026
    Meander63637687943
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Japanese Garden Lover’s Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour guide Tachi is the best!
    A most enjoyable and…

    May 19, 2026
    Jai_K
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    I would definitely…
    I would definitely recommend this tour. Our guide Tachi…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:00 Meet at Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
    • 2. 09:40 Tokyo Station (ticket purchase support) ~ Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 3. 11:30 Asakusa (Nakamise Street, Senso-ji Temple)
    • 4. 12:30 Lunch at Yukikage Asakusa Main Store
    • 5. 13:30 Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue, Center Gai)
    • 6. 14:00 Harajuku (Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street)
    • 7. 15:15 Disband at Hotel Gracery Shinjuku

    What Are the Best Classic Sightseeing Spots in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Private Tour Report Based on the guests' request to visit Tokyo's main attractions, I guided them around the classic sightseeing spots. Today we were spared any rain, and it was not too hot, so I believe the guests were able to fully enjoy the tour. Since the guests had requested ramen for lunch, I took them to a ramen restaurant in Asakusa that has recently become popular. I believe they were satisfied with the tour overall. The Hotel where the guests were staying is famous for the Godzilla head visible from the street, but if you go up to the 8th floor where the front desk is located, you can meet a slightly smaller Godzilla in a battle pose (see the 5th photo). Although a sign states that only hotel guests may enter, anyone waiting to meet someone, including guides, can freely go up to the 8th floor, so if you have guests who are Godzilla fans, taking them here is likely to be well received.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainYakuendai~Shinjuku738JPY
    Section 2SubwayShinjuku~Tokyo209JPY
    Section 3SubwayOtemachi~Asakusa178JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa~Shibuya252JPY
    Section 5TrainShibuya~Harajuku146JPY
    Section 6TrainHarajuku~Shinjuku146JPY
    Section 7TrainShinjuku~Yakuendai738JPY
    Total2,407JPY

    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

    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 Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel@9:00
    • →Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple→Tsukiji Outer Market
    • →Senso-ji Temple→Asakusa Shrine
    • →Imperial Palace Outer Garden
    • →Lunch (Sushi Taruzen)
    • →Shimbashi Station

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace and Asakusa The rain from the previous day cleared up, making it a sunny and hot day, and the guests from Oceania traveled around looking forward to eating sushi in Japan, and were satisfied to enjoy the long-awaited sushi at lunch. Also, in Asakusa, when I explained about ceremonial gift envelopes at a shop, the guests were happy to purchase them. At the Imperial Palace they showed interest in the imperial system, and in Asakusa they were interested in the differences between temples and shrines, so I took them to Sensoji Temple and the neighboring Asakusa Shrine, where they made comparisons. They also eagerly asked questions about the Japanese view of religion.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTakaracho~Tsukiji286JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Asakusa286JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Otemachi286JPY
    Section 4TrainTokyo~Shimbashi146JPY
    Total1,004JPY

    Hello, I’m Yukie Tachibana, national licensed tour guide living in Yokohama with my family. Please call me Yuki. I have been working as a tour guide for 5years mainly around Tokyo, Kanagawa, for example, Hakone, Kamakura, Yokohama and Kawasaki. I have had an experience of attending a lot of foreign visitors from all over the world in both private and group tours for sightseeing and business in one to multi-days. I’m able to arrange the tour for you, so please feel free to ask me your favorite plan in Japan as to spot, food and some activities. I like to see Buddhist statues in temples so I’d like to introduce our history and culture. Also because I like Japanese animation and character, and animals, I can take you to some shops for the animation and animal cafes that are so popular among tourists. Looking forward to seeing you soon and share wonderful time in Japan! Thank you.

    May 1, 2026
    444CraigH
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Tokyo in a day from Yokohama
    We had a great…

    Apr 16, 2026
    Adele P
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely Yokohama!
    We had a lovely day in Yokohama with Yukie…

    Oct 17, 2025
    LeslieS1560
    Intro to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yuki was awesome. She reached out right after we…

    Jun 27, 2025
    L
    L3151LVdavidl
    Amazing Kamakura Tour with Yukie
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing tour with…

  • Kyoto: Todaiji Daibutsuden On foot & Horyuji Temple

    Kyoto: Todaiji Daibutsuden On foot & Horyuji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Kiraku Kyoto Honmachi, 187-1 Honmachi, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto City (Tour start) By car
    • 10:30 Nara Park: Buy persimmon leaf sushi at "Izasa Sushi" in Yumekaze Hiroba
    •   On foot → Ukigumo Enchi → On foot → Todaiji Nandaimon Gate
    • 11:00 -11:30 Todaiji Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall) On foot
    • 11:40 Todaiji Shoro (Bell Tower) On foot
    • 11:50-12:20 Todaiji Nigatsudo On foot
    • 12:30 Below Wakakusayama, eat persimmon leaf sushi on a bench (Lunch 1)
    • (Former swordsmith's knife shop) On foot
    • 12:40 Mizuya Chaya On foot (Lunch 2)
    • 13:00-50 Kasuga Taisha Main Shrine On foot
    • 14:00 Kasuga Taisha (Main Shrine parking lot) By car
    • 14:10 Ukimido By car
    • 14:50-16:10 Horyuji Temple By car
    • 17:00 MIMARU Osaka Shinsaibashi EAST, 1-7-9 Higashi-Shinsaibashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka City (Tour end)

    Title: What Is a Private Car Tour from Kyoto to Nara and Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The exchanges with the guests began in January, when they wanted to change a "car tour from Kyoto to Nara" into a "car tour from Kyoto to Nara and ending in Osaka," and were told it would cost 10,000 yen more. They could not accept this and asked why, and whether there was a cheaper way. Whether there had been no explanation from [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), or whether the explanation had not been convincing, a message full of distrust and anger arrived via a messaging app. I judged that responding with "please take that up with [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/), it is not something I handle" would only make things worse and probably lead to a cancellation, so I communicated through the messaging app, proposed as many alternatives as possible, including cancelling with [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/), and after comparing them, the guests came to accept that the [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/) option was the most reasonable. That was in January. Then, a few days before this June tour, it turned out that the guests' luggage would not fit in the planned minivan. They were upset, saying, "We explained that there were guests and luggage and decided on a minivan, yet when I inquired just in case right before the tour, the luggage won't fit — I can't accept this, why is that?" I proposed possible alternatives, and after comparison the guests eventually accepted, changing from a minivan to a van. This increased the guests' expenses, and another displeased message followed. Because of all this, I headed to the guests' accommodation in Kyoto feeling somewhat gloomy. When we actually met, perhaps because they had come to trust me through all our earlier exchanges, from the moment they got in the car until we arrived in Nara, the conversation flowed lively and freely. During the guiding in Nara there were many questions as well. On the drive to Osaka at the end, there was nonstop talk about the guests' family history (farmers who could no longer make a living moved to East Africa, then to Europe, and further to North America), Japanese politics, the U.S. military in Japan, the legal status of certain communities in Europe and of certain communities in Japan, and much more. If I think of the effort spent on the prior exchanges and the eight hours of nonstop talking as labor, 28,000 yen does not add up, but when I think that I was paid while getting a valuable education I could not get at a university or an English conversation school, I am so glad I became a guide — it was wonderful! Please kindly forgive me if I may have done things that, in my position, I should not have done. To all the staff of [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/), thank you very much again this time.

    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.

    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…

  • Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.8:15 Meet up @Swissotel
    • 2. 9:30 @Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 3. 9:45 @Tenryu-ji Temple
    • 4. 11:00 @Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 5. 13:00 @Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 6. 15:00 @Todai-ji Temple
    • 7. 15:30 @Nara Park
    • 8. 17:30 Disband @Swissotel

    Can You Add Nara to an Osaka-Based Private Kyoto Day Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The day before the tour, the guests asked whether they could also visit Nara. This was an 8-hour private tour of Kyoto departing from and returning to Osaka, so I explained that travel insurance would not apply to any route outside this course and that additional charges would apply. After the guests agreed, we also went to Nara. The guests were very happy with the entire Kyoto and Nara itinerary and were delighted that I could accommodate such a last-minute request. Visiting Nara seemed to be something the guests had genuinely hoped to do, and they were very surprised and delighted by the size of the Great Buddha and the large number of deer in Nara Park. When we parted, the guests expressed their satisfaction and said they would like to book more tours with [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) in the future.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNamba~Umeda240JPY
    Section 2TrainUmeda~Arashiyama410JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama~Kitano-Hakubaicho250JPY
    Section 4BusKitano-Hakubaicho~Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 5BusKinkakuji-michi~Kitaoji Bus Terminal230JPY
    Section 6TrainKitaoji~Kyoto260JPY
    Section 7TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Total1,770JPY

    Hi! My name is YUKA. I’ve got the government license in 2018 and joined a half year traning to do the guide. But a half year later I started my carreer, Covid came. I should have given up guiding. During the Covid, I’ve read many books and made my own materials to explain Japanese culture, history, etc. I love guiding because the guests expand my horizon all the time and let me know their own country and culture, etc. It is really important for us all to know each other and respect each other to make this world peace. Thank you for coming to Japan! Let’s enjoy Japan together!

    Sep 29, 2026
    duncans746
    Yuka was great
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Yuka was a fantastic guide, knowledgeable,…

    Sep 23, 2026
    navinderp2024
    Great day in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 9, 2026
    piperl686
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Honeymoon Tour in Kyoto
    We were so impressed by…

    Aug 5, 2026
    Anita_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great day of sightseeing in Kyoto
    Yuka was a…

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:45 Meet at Tenyu. Take the Izuhakone Bus to Sounzan Station Entrance. From Sounzan take the ropeway. Owakudani. From Owakudani take the ropeway to Togendai. 10:45 Pirate Ship. Disembark at Hakonemachi.
    • Maruyama Bussan Yosegi Zaiku (marquetry). Hakone Checkpoint Ruins. Lunch at Denbei Soba. Take the bus to Motohakone. Hakone Shrine. Take the bus and get off at Yunessun. 15:30 Disband at Tenyu.

    What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. One of the guests was interested in the Japanese language, so I explained kanji, hiragana, and katakana, and introduced some simple everyday example sentences I had prepared myself, and we had an enjoyable time. The guests were impressed by the explanation of the yosegi marquetry and puzzle boxes at a local shop, and made quite a substantial purchase. Both guests were also interested in food, and they enjoyed ramen and rice bowl dishes—which they also eat back home—at a local eatery in Hakone, seated on the tatami. At Hakone Shrine, I explained Shinto, Buddhism, and the Japanese way of life, which helped deepen their understanding.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusTenyu~Sounzan Station Entrance220JPY
    Section 2Free PassOdawara Station~Odawara Station5,000JPY
    Total5,220JPY

    I am Hiroki Morikawa :Hiro:, English guide living with my wife ,just a hop skip and jump from Hakone, Kamakura, Tokyo and the Mt. Fuji.
    I am a friendly grandfather of 4 grandchildren.
    I would love to help you enjoy Japan, using my 3 strong points.
    First: I am used to dealing with any kind of matters. I have experienced various situations in the 40 years of my working life.
    Second: I am good at making a friendly atmosphere between you and local people to help you enjoy Japan. I was raised in western Japan, studied in northern Japan and now live in central Japan. So I know various local cultures and dialects to communicate with a wide variety of people.
    Third: I can explain things from a technical point of view.
    For example, how the Great Buddha was constructed, because I am a master of engineering graduated from Hokkaido University.
    Please enjoy Japan with me. See you soon!!
    dummy

    Aug 24, 2026
    Deb_K
    Viator review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Well organised tour
    Hiro is obviously an experienced guide.…

    Aug 6, 2026
    Marcus_J
    Viator review: Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing day with…
    Had an amazing day with Hiro.…

    Jun 30, 2026
    G2432BLtimothyc
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Full Day Tour with Guide and Vehicle
    6 hour tour of Hakone
    we had a great experience with…

    Jun 25, 2026
    T7734IPbrandons
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in hakone
    Niro was perfect for us. He was…