Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour

    Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet up @ Citadines Harbour Front Yokohama
    • 2. 10:00 @ Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue)
    • 3. 10:30 @ Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 4. 12:00 Lunch @ Suju Dining (inside Shin-Marunouchi Building)
    • 5. 13:30 @ Tokyo Station (underground mall Character Street, station building, station plaza)
    • 6. 15:00 @ Imperial Palace Nijubashi Bridge
    • 7. 16:20 Shopping (at KINOKUNIYA inside the subway "Omotesando" Station during transit)
    • 8. 16:40 Disband @ Nakameguro Station (inside the Toyoko Line train directly connecting to the Minatomirai Line heading toward Yokohama)

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like for Senior Guests? A Licensed Guide's Report At the meeting point, the group had split into two pairs, waiting separately inside and outside the lobby, which delayed our departure by about five minutes, but it turned into a lively little incident and we were able to start the tour in good spirits. The guests were a group of senior visitors from North America. They had allotted their Tokyo sightseeing to the time just before boarding a seven-day cruise to enjoy Japan. They had arrived the previous evening, and their enthusiasm for sightseeing was high, eager to visit as many spots as possible. Since each of the guests walked at a different pace, I made sure to keep the walking slow, and I adjusted the originally planned route each time after asking about everyone's level of tiredness and their wishes. For example, I scheduled lunch right after Meiji Shrine so that they could rest slowly. Also, during a conversation inside Meiji Shrine, it came to light that they very much wanted to shop for character goods as souvenirs for their grandchildren. So after lunch I guided them to Character Street in the basement of Tokyo Station, where they bought many popular cards and were extremely satisfied. I helped carry their shopping bags. In line with their wish to skip Sensoji Temple and prioritize visiting the Imperial Palace, they leisurely enjoyed a stroll in front of Nijubashi Bridge. Having finished shopping for their grandchildren, they felt reassured, and since their legs were tired and they had fully enjoyed Tokyo sightseeing, a natural consensus formed among everyone to head back to the hotel, and we set off on the return journey. At the end, we stopped by a supermarket inside Omotesando subway station on the way to Shibuya, where they were able to buy the anpan they had been curious about, and I believe they were very satisfied. They also greatly liked the lunch spot and finished everything on their plates.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMinatomirai Line Nihon-odori Station~Toyoko Line Shibuya Station540JPY
    Section 2TrainJR Yamanote Line Shibuya Station~JR Yamanote Line Harajuku Station146JPY
    Section 3SubwaySubway Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station~Subway Chiyoda Line Otemachi Station209JPY
    Section 4TrainSubway Chiyoda Line Nijubashimae Station~Subway Ginza Line Shibuya Station209JPY
    Total1,104JPY

    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 Half a Day: Osaka Castle

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:45  Meet at Shin-Osaka Station
    • 10:30 Osaka Castle
    • 12:15 Kuromon Market~Dotonbori~Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street 
    • 13:45 Disband at Shinsaibashi Station

    What Is a Private Osaka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Kuromon Market, and Dotonbori Until the morning of the tour, I had not received clear replies from the guests, so I was a little uneasy until we actually met. I had told them the meeting point was Osaka Station, but there was a misunderstanding and they got off at Shin-Osaka Station, so the pickup ended up taking place at Shin-Osaka Station. The course covered Osaka Castle, Kuromon Market, and the Dotonbori area. At Kuromon Market, we happened to run into a friend of the guests by chance. They had apparently been planning to meet this friend in Tokyo, so it was quite a surprise to encounter them here. I suggested some places to visit after the tour, such as the Umeda Sky Building, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, and Shitennoji Temple, but the guests said they were not interested in any of them, and after the tour they returned to their accommodation in Kyoto.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShin-Osaka~Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Nippombashi190JPY
    Total430JPY

    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!

    May 29, 2025
    Dana_K
    Get ready to climb and explore
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    There is a lot of climbing…

    Aug 16, 2024
    Dylan_N
    Yoshi was a great tour guide
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great experience with…

    Jun 9, 2024
    Tour39164063770
    Tolle Stadtführung mit erfahrenem Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Auf unserem Trip durch Japan hatten wir…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet at Hotel Villa Fontaine Grand Tokyo Roppongi
    • 2. 10:30 Imperial Palace (Outer Garden, East Garden)
    • 3. 13:15 Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 4. 15:00 Odaiba
    • 5. 15:30 Lunch (DiverCity Food Court Hanamaru Udon)
    • 6. 16:05 Disband at Odaiba

    What Can You See on a Private Day Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report Before the tour, I asked about their requests. They had already visited Asakusa and Shinjuku, wanted to go to the Imperial Palace and a Japanese garden, and also wished to visit somewhere with a nice view, so I guided them along the itinerary above. For lunch, the guests requested udon, so although it was a little late, I took them to a food court udon restaurant at DiverCity in Odaiba. They were delighted and said it was very delicious. The guests were very close and friendly, taking care to explain the details to one another. It was a pleasure to guide them. At the end, one of the guests commented that it had been a "perfect day," and I believe they were fully satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainYakuendai~Roppongi-itchome916JPY
    Section 2SubwayRoppongi-itchome~Nijubashimae178JPY
    Section 3TrainOtemachi~Shimbashi178JPY
    Section 4TrainShiodome~Daiba325JPY
    Section 5TrainDaiba~Shimbashi325JPY
    Section 6TrainShimbashi~Yakuendai650JPY
    Total2,572JPY

    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…

  • Hakone Day Trip from Tokyo: Customized Tour

    Hakone Day Trip from Tokyo: Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel – Hakone-Yumoto – The Hakone Open-Air Museum – Lunch – Ropeway (Sounzan – Owakudani – Togendai) – Lake Ashi Pirate Ship – Odawara – Shinjuku – Hotel

    Title: What's a Private Mount Fuji Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Although the start was delayed by nearly an hour because one of the guests was not feeling well, the group visited their desired destinations, were blessed with beautiful views of Mount Fuji, and were very pleased. The day before, both the guests and the guide received messages and phone calls from a booking platform and a tour company claiming to act on its behalf, informing us of a change to the tour start time and the use of a chauffeured car. However, since we could not obtain confirmation even after inquiring with [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), we carried out the tour as originally planned. The guests came to trust the guide, and as a result it turned out to be a very good tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Hakone-Yumoto2,420JPY
    Section 2TrainHakone-Yumoto~Chokoku-no-Mori Station460JPY
    Section 3BusThe Open-Air Museum~In front of Hakone Yutowa200JPY
    Section 4TrainKoen-shimo~Sounzan340JPY
    Section 5BusMoto-Hakone~Odawara1,340JPY
    Section 6TrainOdawara~Shinjuku3,810JPY
    Total8,570JPY

    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 Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:30 Meet up @ Hotel Lobby
    • 2. 10:00 @ Meiji Shrine
    • 3. 11:30 @ Shibuya
    • 4. 12:30 @ Ryogoku
    • 5. 14:00 Lunch
    • 6. 15:00 @ Asakusa
    • 7. 17:00 Disband @ Itoya

    What Does a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Shibuya, and Ryogoku I guided a group visiting from South America. Having recently had more free time, they had begun traveling abroad, leaving the rest of their group back home in their own country. Since they had just finished sightseeing in the Kansai region and this was their first day of sightseeing in Tokyo, I focused the tour on the major tourist spots. As they did not have an IC card, I helped them purchase one in Shibuya along the way. I also took them to Ryogoku during a grand sumo tournament, where they had their photo taken with a sumo wrestler. At the former Yasuda Garden, they were also able to take photos with a bride and groom in traditional Japanese attire, and they were delighted, saying it was a lucky day.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHibiya~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku~Shibuya150JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya~Ryogoku230JPY
    Section 4TrainRyogoku~Asakusabashi150JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusabashi~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 6TrainAsakusa~Ginza210JPY
    Total1,100JPY

    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.

    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…

  • Tokyo Family-Friendly Customized Tour

    Tokyo Family-Friendly Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1000 COCOSHUKU Shinjuku-Hanazono (5-minute walk from Shinjuku-sanchome on the Toei Shinjuku Line) meet up
    •   Shopping for baby products at the drugstore.
    • 1100 Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck
    • 1245 Asakusa Senso-ji Temple
    • 1440 Nihonbashi Takashimaya SC Pokemon Center
    • 1610 Harajuku Meiji Shrine First Torii Gate Takeshita Street
    • 1700 Shinjuku 3D Cat Display Godzilla Street 
    • 1710 Dismissal

    Title: What's a Family-Friendly Private Tokyo Tour Like with a Stroller? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. For this "Best Family-Friendly Tokyo Tour," I had planned in advance to take barrier-free routes as much as possible, assuming a stroller would be used throughout the itinerary. Even so, it took more time than expected (restroom stops, feeding, and so on). For some sections, part of the group carried the child while the stroller had to be carried by another member of the group (elevators were available but would have required significant detours). Nonetheless, the guests took it all in stride and were very accommodating. The view from the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building was excellent, and I was able to explain a great deal about the city. Since Koishikawa Korakuen Garden, which I had prepared in advance, is somewhat difficult to navigate with a stroller, I canceled it. At the strong request of one of the guests, we changed the plan and went to the Pokémon Center instead, which was a huge hit. The tour ran considerably longer than planned, but since it was along my own way home, I guided the group through Takeshita Street and Shinjuku before we parted ways. The guests planned to spend a few days in Tokyo, then head to Mount Fuji and Kyoto.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMetro Shinjuku-gyoemmae~Metro Shinjuku900JPY
    Section 2TrainShinjuku West Exit~Tochomae0JPY
    Section 3TrainTochomae~Ueno-okachimachi0JPY
    Section 4TrainUeno-hirokoji~Asakusa0JPY
    Section 5TrainAsakusa~Nihonbashi0JPY
    Section 6TrainNihonbashi~Omotesando~Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 7TrainHarajuku~Shinjuku146JPY
    Total1,046JPY

    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.

    Sep 24, 2026
    Leslie_R
    Good tour on first day
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Ted, our guide was…

    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

    Jun 26, 2026
    ann r
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Educational with kind, generous guide
    My teenage sons and I learned…

    Jun 14, 2026
    141yunb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
    We…

  • Osaka: Todaiji Nigatsudo & Isuien Garden

    Osaka: Todaiji Nigatsudo & Isuien Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Royal Park Kyoto Shijo
    • 10:25 Kasuga Taisha Shrine ~ Wakakusayama
    • 11:40 Todaiji Nigatsudo
    • 12:20 Todaiji Emado Chaya (Lunch)
    • 13:20 Todaiji Daibutsuden
    • 14:10 Isuien Garden
    • 15:10 Disband at Kintetsu Nara Station

    What Is a Private Nara Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Todai-ji and Kasuga Taisha The guests were a group visiting from Europe. It was their first time in Japan, and they had already visited Hiroshima, Kyoto, and Osaka, with plans to also travel to Kanazawa and Tokyo. They had already seen the deer at Miyajima, but they seemed to enjoy the friendly deer of Nara as well. When I explained at Kasuga Taisha that many gods are enshrined there, they seemed to find it hard to grasp. Their favorite was the Great Buddha at Todai-ji, and they were simply overwhelmed by its size. Since it was essentially a tour involving a lot of walking, they appeared to grow tired, so we wrapped up a little earlier than planned. The weather was fine, and I believe they enjoyed themselves.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShijo~Kintetsu Nara1,020JPY
    Section 2BusKintetsu Nara Station~Kasuga Taisha Main Hall100JPY
    Section 3TrainKenchomae~Kintetsu Nara Station250JPY
    Total1,370JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel pickup→Gion-Shijo⇒Fushimi Inari Station→Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine→JR Inari Station⇒JR Kyoto Station⇒Kinkaku-ji Michi→Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)→Kinkaku-ji Michi⇒Chion-in-mae→Chion-in Temple→Maruyama Park→Yasaka Shrine→Gion⇒Shijo Kawaramachi→Nishiki Market     →: On foot  ⇒Transportation (bus, train, etc.)

    Can You Do a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Covering Kinkaku-ji and Fushimi Inari? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They had mentioned in advance that they wanted to see Kinkaku-ji and Fushimi Inari, so we followed that plan almost exactly. We were able to use trains and buses relatively efficiently, and we also managed to visit Chion-in and Yasaka Shrine. Finally, I took them to Nishiki Market for lunch to conclude the tour. Along the way, we were able to talk about many things, including cultural differences, which was very enjoyable. Since they planned to stay in Kyoto for two more days, I introduced Arashiyama (the Bamboo Grove path and other spots), Kiyomizu-dera, and the Imperial Palace, and explained how to get to each of them. I was fortunate to be blessed with such wonderful guests.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGion-Shijo~Fushimi Inari220JPY
    Section 2TrainJR Inari Station~JR Kyoto Station150JPY
    Section 3BusKyoto~Kinkaku-ji Michi230JPY
    Section 4BusKinkaku-ji Michi~Chion-in-mae230JPY
    Section 5BusGion~Shijo Kawaramachi230JPY
    Total1,060JPY

    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!

    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…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Kegon Falls & Tobu Nikko Station

    Tochigi in One Day: Kegon Falls & Tobu Nikko Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:12 Shimoimaichi meet
    • 10:55 Arrive at Kegon Falls
    • 11:25 Depart Kegon Falls
    • 11:30 Depart Utagahama P
    • 11:45 Ryuzu Falls
    • 12:02 Depart Ryuzu Falls
    • 12:45 Soba restaurant Takumi-an
    • 14:58 Kanman-ga-fuchi
    • 15:25 Toshogu
    • 15:58 Shinkyo Bridge
    • 16:14 Tobu Nikko Station

    What Is a Private Nikko Day Tour with a Chartered Taxi Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The itinerary included the use of a chartered taxi for three hours. On the day of the tour, the meeting point was changed, but with the guests' consent to use the expressway, we were able to make up for the delay. To fit the first item on the afternoon schedule, I suggested a place for lunch, but the planned restaurant was popular, reservations were not possible, and the number of people waiting upon our arrival was very large, so I also tried suggesting other options. In the end, the guests chose to wait, which caused the lunch time to run significantly over schedule. I realized once again that very popular restaurants are not well suited for a tour lunch. This visit to Nikko came after the guests had already toured Kamakura and Kyoto, and since it was their first time trying soba and yuba, they thoroughly enjoyed them. The weather was good throughout the day, and they were able to fully enjoy the nature, which was a positive point.

    Hello! I’m Yoko.
    I live in Tochigi Prefecture about 40 years and currently based in Utsunomiya, city near Nikko.
    I’m a mother of two kids, and a beagle dog.
    Also I’ve lived in Tennessee for 3 years until 2020.
    I was always happy whenever introducing Japanese culture to local people while living in US.
    Now I’m so excited to introduce you various attractions here in Japan.
    I love traveling, nature, food, Kimono, tea ceremony, manga etc.
    I’m looking forward to showing my guests beautiful places and interesting things related to my neighbor area.
    Let’s explore and have fun with me!

    May 26, 2026
    Samuel_G
    Viator review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Informative, fun and well organized
    We had the best day with our…

    May 17, 2026
    E1320OQrobertg
    A fabulous day in Nikko!
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent day with Yoko as our guide.…

    Mar 9, 2026
    claudiomC4921YK
    The bed guide for a really amazing place
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoko was an amazing…

    Dec 21, 2025
    Earhart_Adventures
    Insight in to Japanese feudal culture
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Full Day trip from Tokyo- our…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel→10:45 Nijo Castle→12:30 Yasaka Pagoda→12:50 Ninenzaka→13:20 Lunch (Nagi Saryo)→14:10 Ishibei-koji Alley→14:30 Kanji Museum (Gion Festival video viewing) 14:50 Gion→15:50 Hotel

    What Is a Private Kyoto Tour Like with a Wheelchair-Accessible Itinerary? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from Asia. As some members of the group had limited mobility and tired easily, they carried a foldable wheelchair with them. One member walked normally, while another moved slowly with a cane. The wheelchair was used mostly by one member, and another member used it when the first was walking. In the end, one of the guests continuously pushed the wheelchair throughout the day. This guest seemed to have plenty of stamina and made it possible, and I was deeply impressed by their devotion to the family. To reach Nijo Castle, we used the subway and made active use of the elevators, but the guests grew tired, so afterward we switched to taxis. Thanks to the taxi driver's consideration, we were driven all the way to the foot of Yasaka Pagoda, which was a great help. For lunch, the guests were able to sit and dine at a restaurant with a soba-focused menu. The movement toward Gion was also slow and unhurried. This was my first time guiding guests using a wheelchair at Nijo Castle, and it was a valuable learning experience for me. The guests returned to their hotel by taxi from Gion. The photo was taken at the Ninomaru Garden of Nijo Castle.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto~Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 2OtherNijo Castle~Yasaka Pagoda0JPY
    Section 3OtherGion~Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit0JPY
    Total260JPY

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

    Sep 28, 2026
    Miguel_E
    Amazing Service
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful time with Kazuo.…

    Sep 27, 2026
    T
    TrailBlazer47194
    Kazuo Sumi is a great guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide Kazuo Sumi…

    Sep 1, 2026
    Steve6172014
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 7, 2026
    Pascale_Q
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Very good private tour of Kyoto with Kazuo
    We had…