Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Arashiyama Monkey Park

    Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Arashiyama Monkey Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Hotel Meet (The Chapter Kyoto)
    • 8:30-9:00 Transfer (chartered car; Hotel → Fushimi Inari Taisha)
    • 9:00-9:50 Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 9:50-10:50 Transfer (chartered car; Fushimi Inari Taisha → Arashiyama Torokko Station/Bamboo Grove
    • 10:50-11:20 Stroll through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 11:20-11:40 Tenryu-ji Garden (Sogen Pond, Hyakka-en)
    • 11:40-12:30 Lunch (@Arashiyama Kazurano)
    • 12:30-13:30 Arashiyama Monkey Park
    • 13:30-14:30 Transfer (chartered car; Arashiyama → Hotel)
    • 14:30   Said goodbye in front of the hotel

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like During a Typhoon? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Kyoto for the first time. I took them to Fushimi Inari Taisha, Arashiyama (the bamboo grove and the Tenryu-ji temple garden), and the Monkey Park. At the start of the tour, because Typhoon No. 6 was approaching, I discussed with the guests whether the itinerary needed to be revised. Heavy rain was expected, but since we could return to the hotel before the typhoon made a direct hit, and since I had contacted the Monkey Park, which posed the highest risk, and confirmed that it was open, we decided to proceed as planned. (I had also prepared alternative destinations such as Sanjusangendo, Nijo Castle, and Nishiki Market.) As expected, there was very heavy rain at Fushimi Inari, and it was so crowded with school excursion students that it was almost impossible to move at the Senbon Torii. At the final stop, the Monkey Park, only some of the guests took part, while the others waited in the car. It was a tour that required difficult decisions ahead of the approaching typhoon.

    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 !

    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 One Day: Yanaka Ginza & Rikugien Garden

    Tokyo in One Day: Yanaka Ginza & Rikugien Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Hotel Kyobashi
    • 8:30 Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, Outer Market, Uogashi. Yonemoto Coffee
    • 10:00 Ueno – Saigo Takamori Statue, Grave of the Shogitai, Kiyomizu Kannon Hall, Toshogu Shrine
    • 11:20 Yanaka Ginza
    • 12:10 Rikugien Garden
    • 13:00 Lunch @ Komatsuan
    • 14:00 Dismissal @ Ginza Matsuya

    What Is a Private First-Day Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report This was the first day in Japan for guests visiting from Oceania. After three days in Tokyo, they were continuing on a cruise. Since the pace of walking was slow, occasional rest breaks were needed. When I guided the group to a cafe in Tsukiji, they showed interest, so we took a break inside, which they greatly enjoyed. They took an interest in stories such as that of the Shogitai in Ueno. Lunch had been planned for Yanaka, but since they were not yet hungry, we went to a soba restaurant at the end after visiting Rikugien, where they enjoyed tempura, zaru soba, and a ginger drink, and were very satisfied. Rikugien was also relatively uncrowded, which they liked. I had planned to take them back to the hotel, but they asked if we could stop by the meeting place for the next day's tour on the way to confirm it, so I took them to Matsuya Ginza and we parted ways there. The English had a strong accent and was at times a little difficult to catch, but the guests were calm and pleasant, and they were very pleased with the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNihonbashi (Tokyo)~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Ueno180JPY
    Section 3TrainUeno~Nippori160JPY
    Section 4BusSendagi 3-chome / Toei Bus~Kamifujimae / Toei Bus210JPY
    Section 5SubwayKomagome~Ginza210JPY
    Total940JPY

    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!!

    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 in One Day: Hosen-in with matcha & Teramachi Shopping Arcade

    Kyoto in One Day: Hosen-in with matcha & Teramachi Shopping Arcade

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 Indigo House Gion, 563-22 Komatsuchō, Higashiyama Ward,
    • Hanamikoji
    • Tatsumi Bridge
    • 09:30 Hosen-in (900) with matcha by taxi
    • 11:00 Sanzen-in (700) by walking
    • 13:30 Nanzenji (600) by taxi
    • Suirokaku by walking
    • 14:00 Teramachi Shopping Arcade by subway
    • End of the tour

    What Is a Rainy-Day Private Kyoto Tour to Ohara Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Before coming to Kyoto, they had experienced indigo dyeing in Tokushima, and their accommodation in Gion was named after indigo. A typhoon was approaching and it rained all day, but since we spent much of the time indoors, this did not cause any trouble. Before leaving Gion, we made a reservation at a restaurant that begins in-person bookings at 9:00, and then headed to Ohara. As there were not many taxis available, we had one called via a rideshare app. Since they had mentioned that they preferred to avoid very crowded places, we chose Ohara, where they relaxed greatly, took many photos, and purchased various souvenirs. I recommended having lunch after the tour, and we climbed the Sanmon gate at Nanzen-ji Temple, took photos at the Suirokaku aqueduct, and then I guided them by subway to the Teramachi shopping street, where the tour concluded.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKeage~Kyoto City Hall220JPY
    Total220JPY

    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!

    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…

  • Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour

    Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet 8:45 Take the cable car from Gora to Sounzan Then take the ropeway to Owakudani Arrive 9:10 9:40 Take the ropeway to Togendai 10:10 Pirate ship 10:50 Disembark at Motohakone Port Lake Ashi shore Red torii gate Afterwards take the bus to 12:00 Hakone Checkpoint Ruins Maruyama Bussan Donburi Chaya lunch Then from 1:00 Hakone Checkpoint Ruins Stroll along the old Tokaido cedar avenue 14:00 Take the bus from in front of Hakone Branch Office Disembark at Yunessun Then 14:41 by bus to Gora Station 14:55 Disband

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Owakudani and Mount Fuji The weather had been forecast as unfavorable for viewing Mount Fuji today, so a plan had been discussed to attempt the tour yesterday instead, but this could not be arranged. Hoping to somehow make it happen, we were rewarded when Owakudani greeted us with a magnificent view of Mount Fuji. The guests had an interest in history, so after covering the basics about emperors, shoguns, daimyo, and samurai, we headed to the Hakone Checkpoint site. They toured it with great enthusiasm. The old Tokaido cedar avenue, misty in the rainy weather, had a wonderfully dense and atmospheric feeling. At Maruyama they thoroughly enjoyed the presentation of yosegi marquetry woodwork and then purchased many items as souvenirs. For lunch, they said Japanese food of any kind was fine, and we enjoyed it together while chatting about kanji characters.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOdawara Station~Odawara Station6,000JPY
    Total6,000JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Prada and Nezu Museum in Omotesando

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Prada and Nezu Museum in Omotesando

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hotel Tokyu
    • 9:30 Private residence "Reflection of mineral" in Minamidai 1-chome, Nakano Ward
    • 10:30 Toilet in Hatagaya, Shibuya Ward
    • 11:30 Prada and Nezu Museum in Omotesando
    • 12:30 Tsite in Daikanyama
    • 13:00 Disband at Daikanyama Tsite

    What Is a Private Architecture Walking Tour in West Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. The day before the tour, they shared five specific buildings they wanted to see, and we were able to visit all of them. We took a bus from Shinjuku to Minamidai 1-chome, where we saw a unique compact private house, then walked about 20 minutes to a public restroom located in a park in Hatagaya. This was the setting used in a film starring Koji Yakusho. From an architect's perspective, even restrooms can become an interesting part of culture. In Omotesando, we viewed the exteriors of Prada and the Nezu Museum. Finally, we headed to Daikanyama and I took them to a restaurant at T-site to conclude the tour. It was a tour walking around the western part of Tokyo, making full use of trains and buses. It turned out to be a rich four-hour architecture tour. There were many places I was visiting for the first time as well, and being able to explore Tokyo from an architectural perspective made it a stimulating tour for me too.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShibuya~Shinjuku200JPY
    Section 2BusShinjuku~Minamidai 1-chome / Keio Bus230JPY
    Section 3TrainHatagaya~Omotesando470JPY
    Section 4SubwayOmotesando~Daikanyama300JPY
    Total1,200JPY

    I’m YUMI. Japan is full of history, nature and culture. I would like to talk about them from many aspects. When you have some questions, don’t hesitate to ask me. There’re many off the beaten paths in Japan. If you want to walk in a hidden local area, I’ll tailor the special course as you wish.
    Experiencing new foods is also one of many intriguing things during your trip. I would recommend anything from street foods such as Ramen, Yakitori to authentic Sushi or elegant courses. My policy is to cherish your feelings and time. Let’s enjoy talking and walking with me!

    Jun 6, 2026
    Michelle0309
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Off the tourist track in Tokyo
    We had such a lovely time…

    May 25, 2026
    lynnv748
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hakone was a highlight of our vacation
    We loved our day…

    May 20, 2026
    Suzana F
    Tripadvisor review: Tsukiji Food and Toyosu Market with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learned and enjoyed every minut
    Yumi was a fanty…

    May 14, 2026
    Robert_L
    Excellent tour with our outstanding guide, Yumi
    Viator review: Tokyo 6 hr Private Guided Tour & Tea Ceremony Experience
    Yumi is…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Hamarikyu Gardens & Akihabara

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Hamarikyu Gardens & Akihabara

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Meet up @ Hotel East Tower
    • 13:40 Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 15:00 Imperial Palace
    • 15:45 Akihabara
    • 17:10 Disband @ Tokyo Skytree Ticket Office

    What Does a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Hamarikyu, the Imperial Palace, Akihabara, and Skytree The guest was a first-time visitor to Japan from Europe, and after sightseeing in Tokyo, they planned to continue on to Kyoto and Osaka. At Hamarikyu Gardens, the guest appeared deeply impressed by the beautiful Japanese garden. At the Imperial Palace, the guest listened with great interest to historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo Shogunate. In Akihabara, the guest mentioned a love of Japanese anime and purchased many anime figures as souvenirs. The guest requested, "I can find my way back to the hotel on my own, so instead of returning to the hotel, please guide me to Tokyo Skytree," so I guided them to the Tokyo Skytree ticket office and we parted ways there. Since I accommodated the guest's wishes as requested, I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinagawa~Shimbashi200JPY
    Section 2TrainShimbashi~Tokyo160JPY
    Section 3TrainTokyo~Akihabara160JPY
    Section 4SubwaySuehirocho (Tokyo)~Oshiage290JPY
    Total810JPY

    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

    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 Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.10:00 Meet up @The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho
    • 2.10:30 @Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • 3.11:00 @Tokyo Station (Station Plaza, Station Building)
    • 4.11:30 @Zojoji Temple
    • 5.11:50 @Tokyo Tower
    • 6.12:30 @Meiji Shrine
    • 7.13:30 @Shinjuku (3D Cat, Godzilla Head, Golden Gai)
    • 8.14:00 Dismissal @Shinjuku Isetan Basement Food Hall

    What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Zojoji, Meiji Shrine, and Shinjuku The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They were in Japan for a trip and planned to spend a few days sightseeing before other commitments. On this occasion they did not visit Kyoto; instead, they planned to see Mount Fuji the next day and to watch a baseball game (a Giants match) at Tokyo Dome on Friday. At Zojoji Temple, they experienced the purification ritual at the water pavilion using a ladle. They took commemorative photos with the combination of Tokyo Tower and the main hall of Zojoji Temple in the background. After visiting Meiji Shrine, there was still time to spare, so I asked whether they would prefer to go to Ginza or Shinjuku. They chose Shinjuku, where I showed them the 3D cat digital signage popular with many inbound visitors, the Godzilla head, and Golden Gai. They took many photos, though during our conversations I had the impression that their tone of voice and way of speaking to the guide were relatively reserved. They did not have a meal during the tour. At the end, I explained how to return to their hotel using the Marunouchi Line, guided them through the basement food hall of the Shinjuku Isetan department store, and said goodbye.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Yurakucho Line Nagatacho Station~Sakuradamon Station700JPY
    Section 2TrainTokyo~Hamamatsucho200JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Kamiyacho Station~Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku~Shinjuku160JPY
    Total1,060JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Confirm itinerary & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Confirm itinerary & Nijo Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:15 Meet
    • 9:20 Confirm itinerary
    • 9:45 Sanjusangendo
    • 10:30 Purchase tea ceremony utensils
    • 11:15 Nijo Castle
    • 12:30 Tour ends

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided the guests, who were visiting Japan for the first time. They had arrived in Kyoto the previous day and joined a Gion tour in the evening, so the guests seemed rather tired. Originally I had planned to take them to Kinkaku-ji, but considering the effects of an approaching typhoon, I guided them to Sanjusangen-do instead. They appeared to be overwhelmed by the many Buddhist statues. Since I heard that one of the guests would be preparing matcha, I took them to a tea utensils shop along the way. At Nijo Castle, we happened to overlap with a large group, so I was unable to guide them at a relaxed pace, and they seemed a little dissatisfied. I believe they enjoyed the garden. There was still time remaining before the scheduled end of the tour, but at the guests' request, we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShichijo~Nijojo-mae400JPY
    Total400JPY

    Hello, my name is Mizuho Yoshikawa. Please call me Mizu and my name means rice and water in Japanese.
    I’ve been a tour guide more than 200 times since the spring of 2023 in Kobe, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Wakayama and Kochi. My tour is always original and new, depending on the guest’s preferences, encounters, seasons and weather.
    In Kyoto, one of my tours is to climb Mt. Kurama. It is about 1 hour from the city of Kyoto by train, it is a very quiet and beautiful mountain.
    In Osaka, which is called the kitchen of Japan, I am also in charge of food tour.
    In Nara, in addition to the Great Budda Hall, I guide guests to the temple with a really great view and Japanese wine, sake tasting.
    Every city has a unique charming point.
    The motto of my guiding is ” Ichigo Ichie” Once in a lifetime or seize the day. I learn this concept that the moment will never be the same again through tea ceremonies.
    I like a tea ceremony that is part of the traditional Japanese culture and embodies the spirit of “omotenashi” or hospitality. Through the tea ceremony, we can feel the spirit of “omotenashi” that has been passed down to us from ancient times.
    And I like to travel abroad and domestically, and I have been to 13 overseas countries and most of the prefectures in Japan. Traveling always gives me a new perspective, which is exciting and thrilling. Nowadays, we can learn a lot from the Internet, but traveling teaches us that it is important to have direct experience. When I travel, I feel that my five senses are infinitely expanded, and through my tour, I help all guests to have the same feeling in Japan.
    I was born and raised in Kanagawa Prefecture, which is next to Tokyo Prefecture in eastern Japan. When I was little, I could see Mount Fuji from my backyard. There was also a rice field nearby, and I grew up listening to the croaking of frogs. Listening to the frogs and seeing the mountains made me feel very calm.
    I moved to the city of Kobe, one of the Kansai areas in western Japan, which includes Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and so on. I’m not from the Kansai area of western Japan, but I think that makes me sensitive to the differences between that area and the Kanto area, Tokyo, where I grew up.
    Speaking of Kobe, you might be thinking of Kobe beef. Of course you do. There are also other sake breweries in Nada in Kobe. You can also go from Kobe city to Himeji Castle, also known as the White Egret Castle, which was the first in Japan to be listed as a World Heritage Site in 1993.
    Let’s meet and enjoy Japan together!

    Sep 13, 2026
    946jakobr
    Mizu, as your guide in Koyoto, is the perfect guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed…

    Sep 5, 2026
    Sightsee18435593786
    De moeite waard👍
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Mizu heeft een mooie rondleiding geheven er werd…

    Jul 27, 2026
    OscarBrisenoJr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Awesome tour of Kyoto
    Seeing the temples and shrines…

    Jul 21, 2026
    MarcL3556
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful and Memorable Tour of Osaka with Mizu…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • ① 09:30 Meet at Hotel Vischio Kyoto by Granvia (changed to 9:30 the previous night at the guest's request)
    • ② 09:35 Itinerary explanation and about the history of Kyoto
    • ③ 10:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • ④ 12:00 Ninenzaka, Yasaka Pagoda, Sannenzaka
    • ⑤ 12:30 Break at a tea house
    • ⑥ 13:30 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • ⑦ 14:50 Stroll along Ishibei-koji Alley
    • ⑧ 15:30 Disband in front of Nishiki Market

    What's a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, and Gion The guests were visitors from Oceania, on their second trip to Japan after first coming about ten years ago. They mentioned that the country seemed to have changed quite a lot since then. Some of their family had been living in Kobe for around twenty years, and the younger members of the family are essentially Japanese in mindset and, of course, completely fluent in Japanese. Before coming to Kyoto this time, the guests had also visited Kobe to see their family. Since one of the guests had trouble with their knee, early in the morning at the Hotel I made sure to double-check whether they were certain about their plans, explaining that both Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kiyomizu-dera require climbing uphill for at least about 30 minutes each, and that it is currently the school excursion season, so the sites would be extremely crowded. However, they had already toured various parts of Kyoto the previous day and the remaining places they wanted to see were Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kiyomizu-dera, Sannenzaka, and Gion, so we at least used a taxi for access. Given the knee condition, going downhill seemed even harder than climbing. Even so, they never once complained and walked through to the very end with a smile. Having already stayed in Japan for more than ten days and surely feeling quite tired, they truly deserve an "appare" (bravo). Afterward, I gave a variety of advice — how to get back to the Hotel from Nishiki Market, how to reach the Philosopher's Path the following morning, the highlights of Nara for the next day, and where to have dinner today — and we parted ways in front of Nishiki Market. They said they would introduce me to their friends and relatives when they visit Kyoto, so without expecting too much, I will wait and see.

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in One Day: pick you up at Kujo Station & Gionshijo Sta

    Kyoto in One Day: pick you up at Kujo Station & Gionshijo Sta

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 pick you up at Kujo Station
    • (take subway)
    • 10:20 Nijo Castle
    • 11:10 (take subway)
    • 12:00 Arashiyama
    • (we have lunch)
    • 12:40 TenryujTemple
    • 13:10 Bombo forest
    • Nonomiya Shrine
    • 14:15 Saga-Arashiyama Sta.
    • 14:55 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 15:50 Fushimiinari Sta.
    • 16:00 Gionshijo Sta.

    What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama, Nijo Castle, and Fushimi Inari [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide picked up the group from North America at Kujo Station. One of the guests was visiting Japan for the third time, while the others were visiting for the first time. It was very hot, with temperatures exceeding 30 degrees. For lunch in Arashiyama, we enjoyed rice bowls and udon set meals. At Nijo Castle, there were many questions about the emperor and shoguns, which I answered. When I introduced the lotus flowers in the lotus garden at Tenryu-ji Temple, one of the guests was already very knowledgeable about them. At Tenryu-ji Temple, I introduced the dry landscape garden, the pond garden, and the bamboo grove, and the guests listened attentively. I introduced the Daruma depicted on a hanging scroll at Tenryu-ji Temple, and when I showed the Daruma souvenirs at Fushimi Inari, the guests remembered it. At the end of the tour, the guests wanted to have dinner around Gion, so I guided them to Gion-Shijo, where the tour concluded.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKujo (Kyoto)~Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 2TrainNijojo-mae~Uzumasa Tenjingawa260JPY
    Section 3TrainRanden Tenjingawa~Arashiyama (Keifuku Line)250JPY
    Section 4TrainSaga-Arashiyama~Inari240JPY
    Section 5TrainFushimi Inari~Gion-Shijo240JPY
    Total1,250JPY

    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 !!

    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…