Category: Uncategorized

  • Osaka: Nara Park & kasuga Taisha

    Osaka: Nara Park & kasuga Taisha

    Nara Day Trip from Osaka by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    August, 2026

    Tour Report by HIDEYOSHI

    Hello, I’m HIDEo YOSHIda. Please call me HIDEYOSHI, the same name as a famous shogun who unified Japan for the first time in 1590.
    I was born in Kobe, worked in Osaka for nearly 40 years. I would like to introduce you Kansai region, including Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara and Wakayama.
    In Kyoto, I can guide you Nijojo Castle, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kinkakuji Tempe (Golden Pavilion), Gion area, and Fushimi Inari Taisha.
    In Osaka, I’ll show you Osaka Castle, Shinsekai, Dotonbori, and Umeda Sky biilding. We have locall foods such as Kushikatau, Okonomiyaki and Takoyaki.
    In Kobe, I’ll take you to former foreign residential area, Sannomiya Shopping Street, Chinese Market, and Arima Onsen.
    In Nara, I’ll guide you Todaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, Kasuga Taisha, and Yakushiji Temple.
    In Wakayama, I take you to Koyasan, the center of Esoteric Buddhism.
    I enjoy guiding foreign tourists.
    I can show you Japanese history, especially samurai period, and Shinto and Buddhism.
    I’ve been looking forward to guiding you !!

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9;00 pick you up at the lobby of your Hotel
    • 9:45 Nara Park
    • (you can enjoy crackers to deers)
    • 10:00 Kofukuji Temple
    • Tokondo (The East Hall)
    • 10:30 (leave)
    • 10:40 Todaiji Temple
    • (you can enjoy crackers to deers)
    • 11:50 Nigatsudo
    • 12:20 Temukeyama Shrine
    • 12:40 we see Mt.Wakakusa
    • 13:20 (we have lunch)
    • 14:20 (leave)
    • 14:30 kasuga Taisha
    • 15:20 (leave)
    • 16:40 return to your hotel

    Title: What's a Private Nara Day Tour Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. Over lunch, they mentioned that they had arrived in Japan in August. I noticed a ring on their hand and offered my congratulations. They had been looking forward to feeding the deer with crackers at Nara Park, but as soon as they bought the crackers, the deer gathered around and finished them in no time. Although the guests had set aside plenty of time to enjoy feeding the deer, it ended sooner than expected. It was a hot day, reaching 35°C. After visiting Todai-ji Temple, we took a short break and then continued the tour from Nigatsudo Hall onward. For lunch, the guests enjoyed omurice. On the way back to the hotel, the guests wanted to withdraw some cash, so we stopped at a convenience store along the way.

    Click here for more details: Nara Day Trip from Osaka by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by HIDEYOSHI

    Hello, I’m HIDEo YOSHIda. Please call me HIDEYOSHI, the same name as a famous shogun who unified Japan for the first time in 1590.
    I was born in Kobe, worked in Osaka for nearly 40 years. I would like to introduce you Kansai region, including Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara and Wakayama.
    In Kyoto, I can guide you Nijojo Castle, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kinkakuji Tempe (Golden Pavilion), Gion area, and Fushimi Inari Taisha.
    In Osaka, I’ll show you Osaka Castle, Shinsekai, Dotonbori, and Umeda Sky biilding. We have locall foods such as Kushikatau, Okonomiyaki and Takoyaki.
    In Kobe, I’ll take you to former foreign residential area, Sannomiya Shopping Street, Chinese Market, and Arima Onsen.
    In Nara, I’ll guide you Todaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, Kasuga Taisha, and Yakushiji Temple.
    In Wakayama, I take you to Koyasan, the center of Esoteric Buddhism.
    I enjoy guiding foreign tourists.
    I can show you Japanese history, especially samurai period, and Shinto and Buddhism.
    I’ve been looking forward to guiding you !!

    Request Booking

    Jun 1, 2026
    Stephan_F
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great overview of the…
    Great overview of the highlights of Kyoto with…

    May 28, 2025
    terrym866
    Kyoto guided tour was as promised. Very knowledgeable guide and driver .
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full Day Tour from Kobe with…

    Oct 17, 2024
    katiya2017
    Walking visit in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Government-Licensed Guide
    We booked a full day walking…

    Sep 29, 2024
    Roy_M
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a very good private tour with…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Akihabara

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Akihabara

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2026

    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

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:20　Meet up @ Hotel
    • 10:00　Shibuya Scramble Crossing・Hachiko
    • 10:25　Meiji Shrine
    • 11:50　Imperial Palace
    • 12:40　Lunch @ Hakata Menbo Aka no Noren Marunouchi Building Branch
    • 14:00　Sensoji Temple
    • 14:45　Akihabara
    • 15:40　Disband @ Hotel

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and Senso-ji The guests were a group from Oceania visiting Japan for the first time. They had already traveled to several countries in Europe before coming to Japan, and after sightseeing in Tokyo, they planned to return home the next day. At Meiji Shrine, they appeared to be deeply impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere, which was very different from Shibuya. They also purchased a protective amulet as a souvenir. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with great interest to historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo Shogunate. At Senso-ji, they listened with interest to explanations about the differences between temples and shrines, as well as about Kaminarimon Gate. Since I accommodated the guests' wishes as requested, 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 1SubwayTochomae～Shibuya290JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya～Harajuku160JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 4TrainTokyo～Ueno200JPY
    Section 5SubwayUeno～Asakusa180JPY
    Section 6SubwayAsakusa～Suehirocho (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 7TrainAkihabara～Iidabashi160JPY
    Section 8SubwayIidabashi～Tochomae220JPY
    Total1,600JPY

    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

    Request Booking

    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: Meiji Shrine & Imperial Palace

    Tokyo: Meiji Shrine & Imperial Palace

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    August, 2026

    Tour Report by LEO

    Hello! I’m Ryosuke—please call me Leo.
    I’d love to help you create great memories in Japan, especially around Tokyo and my hometown, Hiroshima.

    I once traveled 44,000 km by bicycle across four continents (every continent except Australia!). There’s a chance I might even have passed through your hometown. Through that journey, I learned not only how wonderful travel can be, but also the things travelers should watch out for.

    With that experience, I’m sure I can help make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
    Let’s have a great time exploring Japan together!

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00　Meet@Hotel
    • 9:30　Meiji Shrine
    • 11:00　Shibuya Crossing
    • 12:00　Gotokuji Temple
    • 13:00　Lunch@Shibuya
    • 14:00　Asakusa
    • 15:00　Yanaka Ginza
    • 15:30　Nezu Shrine
    • 16:15　Imperial Palace (Nijubashi Bridge)
    • 17:00　Dismissal@Tokyo Station

    What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Senso-ji, Yanaka, and Gotoku-ji The guests were friends visiting from North America. We shared many topics of conversation and enjoyed the tour from start to finish. Although they mentioned they were still experiencing jet lag right after arriving in Japan, they ended up staying very active throughout, without needing frequent breaks. At Meiji Shrine and Senso-ji Temple, they were impressed by Japan's unique religious sensibility, in which Shinto and Buddhism are intricately intertwined. They were also delighted to visit places beyond the usual well-known spots, such as Yanaka and Gotoku-ji, which they had not expected to see.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Harajuku160JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku～Gotokuji330JPY
    Section 3TrainGotokuji～Shibuya260JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya～Asakusa260JPY
    Section 5TrainAsakusa～Nippori340JPY
    Section 6TrainNezu～Nijubashimae180JPY
    Total1,530JPY

    Tour Report by LEO

    Hello! I’m Ryosuke—please call me Leo.
    I’d love to help you create great memories in Japan, especially around Tokyo and my hometown, Hiroshima.

    I once traveled 44,000 km by bicycle across four continents (every continent except Australia!). There’s a chance I might even have passed through your hometown. Through that journey, I learned not only how wonderful travel can be, but also the things travelers should watch out for.

    With that experience, I’m sure I can help make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
    Let’s have a great time exploring Japan together!

    Request Booking

    Sep 23, 2026
    MarouschkaV3
    Go Leo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Leo is the best guide we have…

    Aug 16, 2026
    El_Hombre_Aleman
    Great day, thank you!
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    We had a fantastic day! Ryosuke contacted…

    Aug 6, 2026
    antoinemC9893MM
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excursion d’une journée à Hakone
    Nous sommes particulièrement ravis…

    Jul 30, 2026
    BrianBurnette
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great Memories
    We really enjoyed this tour. Leo, our…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2026

    Tour Report by KAZU

    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.

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at hotel, confirm today's destinations 9:20 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Okochi Sanso Villa 10:15 Togetsukyo Bridge, rickshaw experience 11:20 Sanjo Shopping Street 11:45 Break with wine and beer 12:50 Nishiki Market 13:30 Lunch 14:30 Drop off at Fushimi Inari, tour ends

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama and Fushimi Inari The guests were visitors from Oceania. We had been communicating via a messaging app until the day before, and they expressed that they no longer wanted to visit temples or shrines and preferred places not frequented by tourists. I made various suggestions, but nothing was clearly decided. However, it was agreed that we would visit Arashiyama and Fushimi Inari. On the morning of the tour, when I went to the Hotel, they were waiting at a nearby coffee shop and said they had already been to Fushimi Inari. As the discussion continued without much direction, we set off toward Arashiyama for the time being. We went to the bamboo grove, Arashiyama Park, and Togetsukyo Bridge, and since they wanted to ride a rickshaw, they took a short course. After that, they wanted to drink wine somewhere with few tourists, so we went to Sanjo Shopping Street and they had wine and beer at a quiet Italian restaurant. Next, they said they wanted to see Nishiki Market. Although it is a place full of tourists, we took a taxi to Nishiki Market. There, the guests seemed hungry and bought and ate some very expensive tempura. After that, we had a late meal at a sushi restaurant in Kiyamachi. There, they suddenly said they wanted to go to Fushimi Inari. In the morning they had confirmed that they had already been there, but that turned out not to be the case. So, we took the Keihan train and I guided them to Fushimi Inari, where the tour came to an end. The photo was taken at Okochi Sanso in Arashiyama.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto City Hall Front～Nijo220JPY
    Section 2TrainNijo～Saga-Arashiyama200JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)～Shijo-Omiya250JPY
    Section 4TrainGion-Shijo～Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Total910JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

    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.

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Tokyo: Tokyo Station & Tobu Asakusa Station

    Tokyo: Tokyo Station & Tobu Asakusa Station

    Nikko Day Trip from Tokyo: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    August, 2026

    Tour Report by Masa

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:30 Meeting place: HOTEL METROPOLITAN TOKYO MARUNOUCHI
    • 7:40 Depart Tokyo Station
    • (Tohoku Shinkansen: Yamabiko No. 125)
    • 8:46 Depart Utsunomiya Station
    • (JR Nikko Line)
    • 9:28 Arrive Nikko Station
    • (On foot)
    • 9:35 Tobu Nikko Station
    • Tobu Nikko Station: Lockers
    • 9:45 Depart Tobu Nikko Station bus stop
    • (Tobu Bus)
    • 9:51 Nishisando entrance
    • Nikko Nikko Rinnoji Temple
    • (On foot)
    • Nikko Toshogu Shrine
    • (On foot)
    • Nikko Futarasan Shrine
    • (On foot)
    • Nishisando Cafe: Break
    • (On foot)
    • Kanmangafuchi Abyss
    • (On foot)
    • 13:22 Depart Nishisando entrance bus stop Nishisando
    • (Tobu Bus)
    • 13:24 Arrive Shinkyo bus stop
    • Shinkyo Bridge
    • 13:44 Depart Shinkyo bus stop
    • (Tobu Bus)
    • 13:50 Arrive Tobu Nikko Station bus stop
    • 13:56 Depart Tobu Nikko Station
    • (Tobu Nikko Line)
    • Arrive Shimoimaichi Station
    • Depart Shimoimaichi Station
    • (Spacia X No. 7)
    • 14:32 Arrive Kinugawa Onsen Station
    • Disband: Kinugawa Onsen Station
    • 15:06 Depart Kinugawa Onsen Station
    • (Tobu Kinugawa Line)
    • 15:33 Arrive Shimoimaichi Station
    • 15:34 Depart Shimoimaichi Station
    • (Spacia X No. 62)
    • 17:15 Arrive Tobu Asakusa Station
    • 17:30 End: Tobu Asakusa Station

    Title: What Is a Private Nikko and Kinugawa Onsen Day Tour by Train Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. This trip was part of an approximately three-week summer holiday to Japan. After arriving in Japan, they had already visited central Tokyo as well as Hakone, Mount Fuji, Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka, returning to Tokyo the previous evening. Today, after sightseeing in Nikko, they would stay one night at Kinugawa Onsen. Tomorrow, they planned to travel from Haneda Airport to Okinawa (where they planned a road trip by rental car), and then return to Tokyo before heading home. They said, "We want to visit and enjoy as many spots in Japan as possible." Following the passing of a typhoon, Nikko had almost hot, clear weather, and we were able to complete the tour without any rain. We met at the Hotel and traveled to Nikko by Shinkansen, as the guests had requested. On the train, I explained topics such as "the direction of Nikko as seen from Tokyo," "the origins and history of Nikko," "the Edo period of Japan, and the Edo period and Tokugawa Ieyasu," and "the Five Highways and the sankin-kotai system." First, from Tobu Nikko Station, we took a bus to central Nikko. We walked around Rinno-ji Temple and, after paying the admission fee, also viewed the interior of the main hall. There were many questions "about Buddhism" and "about Buddhist statues." At the Gomado hall, a "goma ritual" was being performed, so we observed it for a while. The guests said, "We don't fully understand it, but we could feel the solemn atmosphere." I explained topics such as "about Buddhism" and "about Buddhism and Shinto." From here, we walked to Nikko Toshogu Shrine. Despite it being a weekday, it was very crowded with overseas tour groups and groups of elementary and junior high school students. We toured the Yomeimon Gate, the main shrine, the crying dragon, and other spots in turn. The "three monkeys" and the "sleeping cat" seemed to be particular favorites, and the guests spent time photographing them. Regarding the "three monkeys," they said they "had heard about it in advance," while "they had never heard about the sleeping cat before." We then walked to Nikko Futarasan Shrine. There was a question, "The rows of cedar trees are wonderful. How old are they?" We strolled slowly around the grounds. We walked to the entrance of the West Approach and took a short break at a coffee shop. After resting, we walked to Kanmangafuchi Abyss. The Daiya River was swollen with a powerful current, and we took photos here and there. We walked back to the West Approach entrance and headed to the Shinkyo Bridge. There were many tourists here as well, and we took our time photographing various spots. The guests said, "The Toshogu is quite gorgeous, with many decorations. Very interesting." Arriving at Tobu Nikko Station, the guests bought ekiben (station bento boxes) at a shop in the station and enjoyed them on the train. (They said they had tried ekiben once and become big fans.) From here, we traveled to Kinugawa Onsen via Shimo-Imaichi. The guests commented, "In Japan, no matter where you go, there is no litter on the ground—it's clean." I saw them off at Kinugawa Onsen Station and we parted ways. I returned via Shimo-Imaichi Station and Tobu Nikko Station to Asakusa Station.

    Click here for more details: Nikko Day Trip from Tokyo: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherTokyo～Nikko6,190JPY
    Section 2OtherTobu Nikko Station～Tobu Nikko Station600JPY
    Section 3OtherTobu Nikko Station～Kinugawa Onsen Station940JPY
    Section 4OtherKinugawa Onsen～Asakusa3,540JPY
    Total11,270JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimiinari & Kyoto Station

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimiinari & Kyoto Station

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2026

    Tour Report by Kazz

    I’m Ryoichi Kazuma and my nickname is “Kazz”. I live in Kyotanabe city next to Kyoto city. I want guests to enjoy Kyoto by seeing and experiencing not only from outside but also from inside. I offer various information from daily matters to traditional cultures. Most destinations in Kyoto are located on the eastern side or the western side. As I want to guide guests to as many destinations as possible, I make an efficient itinerary and recommend a taxi use to save time. Additionally, I take pictures at various spots and finally share the link to my storage. By doing so, guests can download their favorite pictures from my storage. Please enjoy Kyoto night and day!

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:30 Kyoto Station arriving at 12:21pm
    • 13:00 Fushimiinari by JR train
    • 14:30 Ninenzaka by taxi
    • Yasaka-no-to by walking
    • Yasakakoshindo by walking
    • Yasuikonpiragu by walking
    • 15:00 Kenninji (800) by walking
    • Gion
    • Hanamikoji by walking
    • Tatsumi bridge by walking
    • 16:30 Kyoto Station by taxi
    • End of the tour

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was visiting from North America and had a free-spirited approach to travel, journeying to various places to fish for large fish on a bucket list. Upon arriving at Kyoto Station, the guest wanted a quick and simple meal, so we stopped at a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant in the station building before starting the tour. It was a very fast-paced four-day trip that included one day in Tokyo and one day in Kyoto. The guest did not seem particularly interested in history, but during the short time available, made sure to secure souvenirs, buying chopsticks on Ninenzaka and perfume on Sannenzaka. It was an extremely hot day, so we drank plenty of water.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Total150JPY

    Tour Report by Kazz

    I’m Ryoichi Kazuma and my nickname is “Kazz”. I live in Kyotanabe city next to Kyoto city. I want guests to enjoy Kyoto by seeing and experiencing not only from outside but also from inside. I offer various information from daily matters to traditional cultures. Most destinations in Kyoto are located on the eastern side or the western side. As I want to guide guests to as many destinations as possible, I make an efficient itinerary and recommend a taxi use to save time. Additionally, I take pictures at various spots and finally share the link to my storage. By doing so, guests can download their favorite pictures from my storage. Please enjoy Kyoto night and day!

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    Sep 25, 2026
    Marvin_F
    Kazz is an outstanding…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Kazz is an outstanding experiencedand friendly…

    Sep 21, 2026
    Laura_K
    Day in Kyoto with Kazz
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazz was an amazing…

    Aug 27, 2026
    M6034YWthomasm
    Worth it
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    The day went by so quickly, a…

    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Awesome experience
    Tour guide Kazz was great. Very informative and showed…

  • Miyagi in Half a Day: Matsushima Sightseeing Boat Basho Course

    Miyagi in Half a Day: Matsushima Sightseeing Boat Basho Course

    Sendai & Matsushima Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    August, 2026

    Tour Report by Riko

    Hello! I’m Riko, your local guide. During the week, I work at a local university, but on weekends, I love to guide visitors like you. This year(2024) marks my 6th year as a guide, and I’m thrilled to continue sharing the beauty of Japan with you.
    I’m a certified Sake Navigator, so I have a wealth of knowledge about Japanese sake. Additionally, I’m well-versed in the gourmet scene of Sendai, Shiogama, and Matsushima, allowing me to tailor your tour to your culinary preferences!
    I look forward to creating a memorable tour experience for you, full of fun and lasting memories of Japan. Thanks for choosing me as your guide!

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:50 Meet at the hotel ~ Walk to Aoba-dori Station
    • 9:12 – 9:45 Take the Senseki Line to Hon-Shiogama Station
    • 10:00 @Matsushima Sightseeing Boat Basho Course (Shiogama-Matsushima Course)
    • 11:00 @ Godaido
    • 12:00 @Zuiganji Temple and Treasure Hall
    • 12:45@Disperse in front of Nihachiya Restaurant

    What Is a Private Matsushima Sightseeing Boat and Lunch Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report This was a rare tour with domestic guests, something that happens perhaps once a year. The way of guiding differs from the foreign guests I usually accompany. Since the guests already had basic knowledge of Japanese culture, the key was how to help them enjoy it. But talking through all the knowledge I have, like a volunteer guide might, would tire the listeners, so I focused on enjoying a back-and-forth conversation. The guests said, "Having a local tell you all sorts of things, insider information and so on, is really fun, isn't it?", so I felt the approach worked well. The request from the guests was for the Matsushima sightseeing boat and a recommendation for a lunch spot. For the boat, I recommended the Shiogama-Matsushima course (the Basho course), where you can enjoy both dynamic and delicate scenery at the same time, and they sighed repeatedly at the beauty of the rock faces. Today a fire along the Senseki Line caused significant schedule disruptions, so I kept a close eye on the clock, but we managed to make the 10:00 boat, which was a relief. When we parted, they said, "It's hot, so maybe it's about time to have you introduce a place to eat," and I confirmed, "There are still 20 minutes left, is that alright?" Based on the guests' preferences (fond of seafood, one of the guests not keen on raw fish, wanting grilled skewers), I recommended Nihachiya. The savory aroma of the grilled skewers at the storefront led to "This place is fine," and we parted in front of the shop.

    Click here for more details: Sendai & Matsushima Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainAoba-dori～Hon-Shiogama350JPY
    Total350JPY

    Tour Report by Riko

    Hello! I’m Riko, your local guide. During the week, I work at a local university, but on weekends, I love to guide visitors like you. This year(2024) marks my 6th year as a guide, and I’m thrilled to continue sharing the beauty of Japan with you.
    I’m a certified Sake Navigator, so I have a wealth of knowledge about Japanese sake. Additionally, I’m well-versed in the gourmet scene of Sendai, Shiogama, and Matsushima, allowing me to tailor your tour to your culinary preferences!
    I look forward to creating a memorable tour experience for you, full of fun and lasting memories of Japan. Thanks for choosing me as your guide!

    Request Booking

    May 10, 2026
    Nate_K
    Viator review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fun Day in the bay!
    Be ready to walk briskly…

    Apr 30, 2026
    Tanakainmaui
    Tripadvisor review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Riko-san is the best guide!
    I originally booked with TripAdvisor,…

    Mar 31, 2026
    NHDBuilder
    Tripadvisor review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    GO WITH “RIKO” FROM JAPAN GUIDE AGENCY
    This is our…

    Oct 3, 2025
    P
    Peggy_M
    This was a great tour with Riko
    Viator review: Sendai / Matsushima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Riko was…

  • Kyoto: Sanjusangendo & Ryoan-ji

    Kyoto: Sanjusangendo & Ryoan-ji

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    August, 2026

    Tour Report by Michi

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

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Hotel Meet
    • 10:30-10:50 Travel (chartered car; Hotel → Sanjusangendo)
    • 10:50-11:40 Sanjusangendo visit
    • 11:40-12:00 Travel (chartered car; Sanjusangendo → Kiyomizu-dera / Chawanzaka)
    • 12:00-13:00 Kiyomizu-dera visit
    • 13:00-13:30 Travel (chartered car; Kiyomizu-dera / Chawanzaka → Nijo Castle)
    • 13:30-14:50 Nijo Castle visit
    • 14:50-15:10 Travel (chartered car; Nijo Castle → Ryoan-ji)
    • 15:10-16:00 Ryoan-ji visit
    • 16:00-16:30 Travel (chartered car; Ryoan-ji → Hotel)
    • 16:30 Said goodbye to the guests in front of the hotel

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour by Car Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. It was everyone's first time in Japan and Kyoto. I took them to Sanjusangendo, Kiyomizu-dera, Nijo Castle, and Ryoan-ji. The guests requested to visit as many places as possible, so we skipped meal time and traveled by car (a contracted vehicle) to visit these four sites. When we discussed the schedule, I also introduced destinations for another day. The tour today took place under high temperatures of 35°C, but since Sanjusangendo, Nijo Castle, and Ryoan-ji involve viewing inside the buildings and we traveled by car, I think the heat was not too much of a burden. Everyone said that Sanjusangendo, the first destination, was the best. They commented that the 1,001 Buddhist statues could not be seen anywhere else.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Michi

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Koishikawa Korakuen Garden & Ginza Seiko

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Koishikawa Korakuen Garden & Ginza Seiko

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2026

    Tour Report by Takako

    Hello!! I’m Takako. Thank you for seeing my page. I’ve been showing guests around Tokyo, Yokohama and Kamakura for over six years. There are various things from historic sites, shrines and temples to cultural spots, good restaurants and anime shops in Japan.
    I love watching sumo wrestling, Japanese traditional sport.
    My favorite place is Tsukiji food market. It’s really exciting and you can enjoy a variety of delicious foods.
    I also like visiting Japanese gardens such as Hama-rikyu Gardens and Rikugien Gardens.
    Please let me know what interests you.
    I would be happy to make a suitable tour for you and help you stay in Japan comfortably.
    Looking forward to meeting you!!

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
    • 13:20 Ueno – Statue of Saigo Takamori, Grave of the Shogitai, Kiyomizu Kannon-do, Toshogu Shrine
    • 14:20 Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    • 15:20 Tokyo Tower
    • 16:20 Yurakucho Bic Camera
    • 16:40 Ginza Seiko
    • 17:00 Disband @ Seiko

    What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Day Tour? Ueno, Koishikawa Korakuen, and Tokyo Tower — A Licensed Guide's Report I guided one visitor from North America on a private day tour of Tokyo. After Tokyo, the guest planned to travel to Hakone and Kyoto. In the morning, the guest had independently visited a bonsai museum, and for this tour chose quite a refined itinerary of Ueno, Koishikawa Korakuen Garden, and Tokyo Tower. The guest mentioned a love of nature. The guest listened carefully to each of my explanations. The itinerary progressed faster than expected, so with some time to spare I asked what the guest would like to do, and we visited a large electronics store in Yurakucho to buy a mobile battery, after which the guest purchased a wristwatch at Seiko in Ginza. The guest apparently collects watches. It was a pleasure to guide such a calm and pleasant person.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa～Ueno180JPY
    Section 2TrainUeno～Suidobashi200JPY
    Section 3SubwaySuidobashi～Onarimon220JPY
    Section 4SubwayKamiyacho～Hibiya180JPY
    Total780JPY

    Tour Report by Takako

    Hello!! I’m Takako. Thank you for seeing my page. I’ve been showing guests around Tokyo, Yokohama and Kamakura for over six years. There are various things from historic sites, shrines and temples to cultural spots, good restaurants and anime shops in Japan.
    I love watching sumo wrestling, Japanese traditional sport.
    My favorite place is Tsukiji food market. It’s really exciting and you can enjoy a variety of delicious foods.
    I also like visiting Japanese gardens such as Hama-rikyu Gardens and Rikugien Gardens.
    Please let me know what interests you.
    I would be happy to make a suitable tour for you and help you stay in Japan comfortably.
    Looking forward to meeting you!!

    Request Booking

    Sep 30, 2026
    16shelleyb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Great day in Toyko
    Four of us spent an…

    Sep 29, 2026
    982marvf
    Yokohama Experience
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Takako is an outstanding tour guide who knows Yokohama…

    Sep 24, 2026
    marshad422
    A great day of seeing so much and gaining knowledge of the historical and spiritual meaning to the places visited.
    Tripadvisor…

    Sep 18, 2026
    7
    770stefanieg
    Wonderful, personalized tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Takako, our guide…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    August, 2026

    Tour Report by KAZU

    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.

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:25 Depart hotel　8:55 Fushimi Inari　　10:00 Kiyomizu-dera　11:15 Lunch　12:00 Higashiyama area (Yasaka Pagoda・Sannenzaka・Ninenzaka・Ishibei-koji・Yasaka Shrine)
    • 12:30 Gion　　13:30 Nishiki Market　　14:25 Arrive at hotel

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, and Nishiki Market The guests visited Japan from North America with friends. They had visited Japan before, but this was their first time in Kyoto. The tour was originally planned for a group, but some of them could not join due to feeling unwell, so some of the guests stayed at the hotel while the rest took part. The weather was fine, and it felt like the heat had returned. Everyone gathered early, so we were able to start smoothly. At Fushimi Inari, the guests worshipped without any particular concerns. Some of the guests were collecting goshuin (temple and shrine stamps). We spent a little extra time at Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, and Yasaka Shrine, but the number of people in line was small, so there was no impact. At the final stop, Nishiki Market, the guests who had not joined in the morning also met up with us. One of the guests decided to stay in the downtown area together with them, and I brought the rest of the group back to the hotel. The photo was taken at Kiyomizu-dera.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by KAZU

    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.

    Request Booking

    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…