Category: Uncategorized

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajimaguchi & Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajimaguchi & Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:10 Meet at the Shinkansen platform at Hiroshima Station
    • 9:23 Board JR
    • 9:50 Arrive at Miyajimaguchi
    • 10:10 Board ferry
    • 10:30 Great Torii Gate, Itsukushima Shrine
    • 11:30 Daishoin Temple
    • 12:00 Omotesando
    • 12:55 Board the World Heritage Sea Route
    • 13:40 Lunch
    • 14:30 Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
    • 15:35 Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
    • 16:50 Since they wanted to go shopping at Hondori, we disband here

    What's a Private Miyajima and Hiroshima Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Since they enjoyed food, I introduced some recommended local foods on the train. In Miyajima, they enjoyed lemonade, oysters, and cheese-filled momiji manju. They loved the cheese-filled momiji manju so much that they bought a lot as souvenirs, even though the shelf life was short. At the Peace Memorial Museum, we talked together about peace. They said they would definitely love to return to both Miyajima and Hiroshima, which made me very happy.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2OtherMiyajima～Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park1,200JPY
    Section 3OtherHiroshima～Hiroshima150JPY
    Total1,770JPY

    Tour Report by LISA

    Embark on an unforgettable journey through Hiroshima Prefecture with a passionate and knowledgeable guide!

    As a certified interpreter guide based in Hiroshima, I offer you an exclusive and personalized experience. From the poignant history of Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park to the serene beauty of Miyajima Island, I will share captivating stories and insights that bring these iconic sites to life.

    My fluency in both English and Japanese ensures a seamless and enriching experience, bridging the gap between languages and cultures. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking to immerse yourself in Japanese culture, I tailor each tour to your interests and pace, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable adventure.

    Request Booking

    Sep 11, 2026
    Louise_O
    Perfect day
    Viator review: Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    What a perfect way to spend a half day…

    Jun 22, 2026
    Rachel M
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Powerful day of one of the worst tragedies…

    Jun 5, 2026
    777mannyr
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima private tour
    Lisa Y. Did an amazing job.…

    May 25, 2026
    maryroses96
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Bloomers in Hiroshima
    We had a fantastic day with…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet
    • 10:10 Itinerary confirmation
    • 10:50 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 12:00 Rest at teahouse inside Kiyomizu-dera
    • 13:30 Lunch
    • 14:30 Higashiyama, Gion area
    • 15:45 End

    What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like on a Hot Summer Day? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting Japan in Kyoto. After traveling to several destinations in North America, they arrived in Kyoto from Kansai International Airport the previous day. Since this was their first guided tour in Japan, I began by giving them an overview. Everyone was a good walker, but as it was very hot today, they became somewhat exhausted. We continued the tour while taking breaks for drinks and at a cafe, but the guests decided to stop in the Gion area. As a result, the tour ended about 15 minutes earlier than planned.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSanjo (Kyoto Prefecture)～Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Section 2TrainInari～Tofukuji150JPY
    Section 3BusTofukuji / Kyoto City Bus～Gojozaka / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total620JPY

    Tour Report by Mizu

    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!

    Request Booking

    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 in One Day: ASAI Kyoto Shijo & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in One Day: ASAI Kyoto Shijo & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 ASAI Kyoto Shijo
    • 9;00ー11:00 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 11:30-12:30 Nijo Castle
    • 12:40-13:30 Lunch
    • 13:40-15:00 Higashiyama district, Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • Tour ends

    What Is a Private Full-Day Walking Tour of Kyoto's Fushimi Inari and Kiyomizu-dera Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of two visiting from North America. They were energetic and comfortable walking quite fast, which was a great help. There was a delay in the transfer where the guide could not get out quickly and kept them waiting, but we proceeded according to the itinerary. At Fushimi Inari Taisha, we visited the Omokaru-ishi stones and the Nenoue-no-Matsu pine, enjoyed some inari, and I took them to a knife shop. They also purchased tea and a teapot. After sampling some Japanese sake, we traveled by train to Nijo Castle. Since we had spent time at Fushimi Inari Taisha, I gave a shorter explanation there. We then took the train again toward Gion and walked up to Hokan-ji Temple, Ninen-zaka, and Sannen-zaka, guiding them to Kiyomizu-dera, and ended the tour where the approach path exits. They were very kind guests, and it was a real pleasure to guide them.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGojo (Kyoto Municipal)～Kyoto220JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 3TrainFushimi Inari～Sanjo (Kyoto Prefecture)240JPY
    Section 4TrainSanjo Keihan～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 5TrainNijojo-mae～Sanjo (Kyoto Prefecture)220JPY
    Section 6TrainSanjo Keihan～Gion-Shijo180JPY
    Total1,230JPY

    Tour Report by Harumi

    Hello, my name is Harumi, and I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter in Japan. I have been actively involved in volunteer activities for many years, sharing my passion for Japanese culture and history. As a kimono dressing instructor, I can provide hands-on kimono experiences and guide tours. Additionally, I have extensive knowledge of sumo wrestling, making my tours ideal for those interested in this fascinating sport. I am also well-versed in Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings (Jūdenken) and can introduce historical townscapes dating back to the Edo period. If you are interested, I would be happy to show you around the sake brewing process in the Nada region.

    Request Booking

    Sep 29, 2026
    H1282JBkarinas
    Customizable tour with Harumi-san
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing tour with Harumi…

    Sep 28, 2026
    Coastal07335209891
    Kobe Delight with Harumi
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our tour was definitely customized and our…

    Sep 27, 2026
    kakeelma
    Learning is fun with Harumi san!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    My husband and I…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Cosmopolitan580857
    We had a great time! Kyoto is a beautiful city.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide…

  • Kyoto: Ginkakuji & Shorenin

    Kyoto: Ginkakuji & Shorenin

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 Meeting point: Hotel Kyoto Sanjo
    • 08:15 Travel by taxi to Ginkakuji
    • 08:40 Sightseeing ①: Visit "Ginkakuji"
    • 09:40 Walk along "The Philosopher's Path"
    • 10:00 Sightseeing ②: Along the way, visit "Honen-in"
    • 10:30 Sightseeing ③: Along the way, visit "Otoyo Shrine"
    • 10:50 Walk to Eikando
    • 11:00 Sightseeing ④: Visit "Eikando"
    • 11:45 Lunch/Break (in front of Nanzenji, yudofu "Junsei")
    • 12:45 Walk to Nanzenji
    • 12:45 Sightseeing ⑤: Visit "Nanzenji"
    • 14:30 Travel by taxi to Shorenin
    • 14:40 Sightseeing ⑥: Visit "Shorenin"
    • 15:20 Return to the hotel by taxi
    • 14:40 Arrive back at the hotel, end of guided tour, disband

    What's a Private Kyoto Garden-Themed Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, traveling in Japan. All pre-tour arrangements, such as the selection of destinations, were coordinated by email in advance. One of the guests had an exceptionally strong interest in Japanese culture, and regarding Japanese gardens in particular, had read through a Japanese author's book on the hidden gardens of Kyoto published more than twenty years ago, and appeared to possess considerable knowledge on the subject. Based on that interest, the request was to visit Kyoto's major garden landmarks over two days, following two routes: (1) a route through the Higashiyama area from north to south, and (2) a route from central Kyoto toward the northwest. The guided tour I led covered only one of the two days (May 31), but I was also asked to provide a reference itinerary for the other day. After several exchanges by email, we finalized the plans as follows: (1) Ginkaku-ji Temple ⇒ the Philosopher's Path ⇒ Honen-in Temple ⇒ Eikando Temple ⇒ Nanzen-ji Temple ⇒ Shoren-in Temple (guided on May 31), and (2) Nijo Castle ⇒ Kinkaku-ji Temple ⇒ Ryoan-ji Temple ⇒ Arashiyama (the Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge) (reference for June 1, without a guide). On the day of the tour (May 31), although the high temperature exceeded 30 degrees, it remained mostly cloudy throughout the day, which turned out to be ideal weather for a walking tour. The guests were very energetic and walked at a fast pace, so we were able to move from place to place far ahead of the planned schedule, allowing us to proceed through the itinerary with plenty of time to spare. Thanks to this, we were able to explore each site at a relaxed pace and even visit places that had not originally been planned. The guests' impressions could be summarized in two points: "the sculptural beauty of the Japanese gardens is wonderful," and "the harmony between the vivid greenery and the buildings is wonderful." One thing I noticed was the reaction of one of the guests, who occasionally yawned and seemed tired. When I frankly asked whether visiting only temples was becoming boring, the answer was, "Not at all, every place is very impressive." Upon asking further, I learned that they had stayed up late the previous night and had gotten only about six hours of sleep, so they were feeling a little tired. I accompanied the group for a full day of their trip in Japan, and there were many heartwarming moments, such as one guest posing for photos again and again at another's request. Accompanying this cheerful and lively group made for an enjoyable guided tour.

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

    Tour Report by Nori

    Hi, everyone! I’m Norifumi Kamon, a government registered guide interpreter. Please call me “Nori”, or “Kamon-san”.
    Let me introdece myself. I was born on April 17th in 1952 in Miyazaki prefecture in Kyushu island. I used to be an English teacher of Osaka Prefectural high school. When I retired from a teacher ten years ago, I decided to get a professional guide license. I wanted to play a role of the bridge between Japanese people and the people from all over the world as a second life of mine. After two years efforts, I finally got the guide license. Since then, I have guided several handreds of foreign people mainly in Kyoto and Nara for about five years except Corona Pandemic period. Almost all the tourists were deeply impressed by the beauty of nature, traditoin, culture, and art of Japan. I can surely help you enjoy and be satisfied with the sightseeing in Japan. And I’m looking forward to seeing you soon.

    Request Booking

    Aug 10, 2026
    Paul_H
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kind and knowledgeable guide – highly recommended
    Nori communicated…

    Apr 9, 2026
    Ron_W
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We saw so much in the…
    We saw so much in the…

    Mar 24, 2026
    zackn719
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Knowledgeable guide and a great tour
    We did our private tour with…

    Oct 20, 2025
    66speech
    Highlights of Kyoto.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience with Nori. Nori exceeded our expectations with…

  • Kyoto: Fushimi Inari & Arashiyama

    Kyoto: Fushimi Inari & Arashiyama

    Kyoto Early Morning Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 6:30 Hotel Meet (@Hyatt Palace Kyoto)
    • 6:30-7:15 Travel (Subway; Marutamachi→Sanjo Keihan, Keihan Line; Sanjo Keihan→Fushimi Inari Taisha)
    • 7:15-8:05 Visit Fushimi Inari
    • 8:05-8:50 Travel (Keihan Line; Fushimi Inari→Gion-Shijo, Hankyu Line; Kawaramachi-Shijo→Arashiyama)
    • 8:50-10:00 Stroll around Arashiyama (Togetsukyo Bridge, Tenryu-ji Garden, Bamboo Grove, Nonomiya Shrine)
    • 10:00-10:40 Travel (Arashiyama→Gion-Shijo)
    • 10:40 Tour ends

    What's an Early-Morning 4-Hour Private Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. Some of the guests had been to Kyoto a few years earlier. The trip was to celebrate a retirement milestone. It was an early-morning 4-hour tour starting at 6:30. I managed to make it in time by taking the very first train. I guided the group to Fushimi Inari Taisha and Arashiyama (Togetsukyo Bridge, the garden at Tenryu-ji, the bamboo grove, and Nonomiya Shrine). At the end of the tour, I took them to Gion-Shijo and said goodbye. They planned to visit the Higashiyama area (Ninenzaka, Sannenzaka, and the Yasaka Pagoda) on their own. When we arrived at Fushimi Inari shortly after 7:00, it was already crowded with many tourists. The bamboo grove was quite crowded as well.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Early Morning Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayMarutamachi (Kyoto Municipal)～Sanjo (Kyoto Prefecture)220JPY
    Section 2TrainSanjo (Kyoto Prefecture)～Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Section 3TrainFushimi Inari～Gion-Shijo240JPY
    Section 4TrainKyoto-Kawaramachi～Arashiyama (Hankyu Line)240JPY
    Section 5TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)～Randen-Tenjingawa250JPY
    Section 6SubwayUzumasa-Tenjingawa～Sanjo (Kyoto Prefecture)260JPY
    Section 7TrainSanjo (Kyoto Prefecture)～Gion-Shijo180JPY
    Total1,630JPY

    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 One Day: Gotokuji Temple & Snacks @Seven-Eleven

    Tokyo in One Day: Gotokuji Temple & Snacks @Seven-Eleven

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Mimaru Asakusa Station
    • 10:20 Gotokuji Temple
    • 11:30 Meiji Shrine (took many photos)
    • 12:45 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 14:15 Asakusa (Skytree photos)
    • 14:20 Snacks @Seven-Eleven > Sensoji Temple
    • 15:15 Disband at Kappabashi Kitchen Town

    What's a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Gotokuji, Meiji Shrine, and Asakusa The guests had already installed Mobile Suica, so the tour proceeded smoothly. At Gotokuji Temple, after I gave a full guided tour, they purchased and placed a cat figurine. They took many photos at various spots, including Meiji Shrine. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, many irises were in bloom, and they took a lot of photos. Besides the irises, there were only a few hydrangeas blooming, but they enjoyed the historical buildings, the stamps, and souvenirs such as artworks. In Asakusa, I helped them find the matcha they wished to purchase and introduced items unique to Asakusa, such as replica swords, among other things. The tour concluded as planned at Kappabashi. I received a tip.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassAsakusa～Shibuya700JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya～Miyanosaka320JPY
    Section 3TrainGotokuji～Meiji-jingumae330JPY
    Section 4Free PassMeiji-jingumae～Otemachi0JPY
    Section 5Free PassTakebashi～Asakusa0JPY
    Total1,350JPY

    Tour Report by Koba

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel 1000→1040 Nijo Castle 1200→1300 Gion Kagai Art Museum 1400→1415 Lunch time 1445→1510 Fushimi Inari Taisha 1600 (End at destination)

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nijo Castle, Gion, and Fushimi Inari The guests were a group visiting from Europe. The guests had a deep interest in art and had studied Japanese history well, so they examined every room's exhibits closely at both the Ninomaru Palace of Nijo Castle and the Gion arts museum, asking many questions. Since the guests were looking forward to enjoying Japanese ramen at lunchtime, I took them to a ramen restaurant on Shijo Street, which they seemed to enjoy very much. The Senbon Torii at Fushimi Inari Taisha was also uncrowded today, and the guests had a wonderful time taking photos and enjoying themselves, including at the Omokaru-ishi stone.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusNishinotoin Shomen / Kyoto City Bus～Nijojo-mae / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2TrainNijojo-mae～Gion-Shijo400JPY
    Section 3TrainGion-Shijo～Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Total870JPY

    Tour Report by YOSHI

    Since I completely retired from my position at a railway company and started being involved in the tour guide interpreter business, I have experienced almost all types of guiding through FIT, Long Group Tours, Cruises (Shore Excursions), Incentive Tours, Special Interest Tours (Railway Travel, Pilgrimages), Familiarization Tours (Sales Promotion Tours) etc.
    However, I noticed that I am not fully satisfied to only be a general guide who just manages a tour itinerary provided by tour agents/clients.
    High-end guests have sometimes requested me to answer some enquiries that are actually challenging to answer for Japanese nationals. However, I appreciated those because they provided such a challenge and I felt that they wanted to understand my sense of beauty/values as a guide concerning a new culture for them.
    Every time I host my guest I do my best to prepare the most appropriate information based on three travel elements (appetite, logistics, accommodation). Nevertheless, I decided to aim for higher guiding skills after I was motivated by senior guides whose guiding strategies and gestures were particularly impressive.

    Request Booking

    Aug 7, 2026
    D1494MYdanielleg
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    One day walking tour in Tokyo
    Yoshi was great!…

    Aug 6, 2026
    dg89
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Private Führung in Kyoto
    Die Tour mit Yoshi war…

    Aug 3, 2026
    PaulaLondon2017
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A customized tour with guide around Kyoto
    We had…

    Jul 5, 2026
    788amarpals
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Top 7 Sights Private Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Private tour Guide in Kyoto- Mr Yoshi
    Mr.…

  • Kagoshima in One Day: Sakurajima Ferry & Sengan-en

    Kagoshima in One Day: Sakurajima Ferry & Sengan-en

    Kagoshima Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • Before 8:00 Port – Travel by taxi
    • 8:20-8:35 Sakurajima Ferry
    • 8:40-9:30 Lava Nagisa Park, Sakurajima Visitor Center
    • 9:45-10:00 Ferry to Kagoshima city
    • 10:20-11:00 Stationery shopping at Tenmonkan
    • 11:30-12:30 Sengan-en
    • 13:00 Sushi lunch (Central Station area)
    • 14:00 Disband at Central Station

    Title: What Is a Private Kagoshima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Sengan-en and Local Shopping The guests were from Europe. They had originally planned to visit Japan in 2020, but had to postpone due to the pandemic, and their attempt in 2022 was also delayed because Japan still had strict border controls, so this was their first visit to Japan, finally realized after six years of waiting. They seemed to have seen towns located near a volcano in Europe as well, but they were moved by the beauty of the Japanese garden at Sengan-en. Being fond of stationery, when we went to the stationery section of a bookstore, they were amazed by the sheer variety of pens and other writing tools, delightedly calling it "Paradise!" I believe the stationery section drew the best reaction of all.

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

    Tour Report by Hoshi

    I’m a national government licensed tour guide. I moved to Kagoshima from Osaka four years ago because I was amazed by its perfect blend of stunning nature beauty and rich culture. We can see the majestic Sakurajima volcano from the city, which reminds us the powerful natural forces. Kagoshima was home to major Meiji Restoration figures, so history lovers will find plenty to explore. And of course, the food is incredible—famous for Kurobuta (Berkshire pork), Satsuma-age (fried fish cakes), and Shochu (a local distilled spirit).

    I’m passionate about history and love visiting historical sites all over Japan. I also like outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, and camping. Kagoshima’s natural landscape is perfect for these adventures, so there’s always something new to discover.

    I look forward to sharing wonderful Kagoshima with you and making unforgettable memories together!

    Request Booking
  • Kyoto: Nara Park feeding deer & Kiyomizudera

    Kyoto: Nara Park feeding deer & Kiyomizudera

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel Kyoto
    • 11:00 Nara Park feeding deer
    • 11:30 Todaiji temple Great Buddha
    • 12:00 Nigatsudo
    • 13:00 Leaving Nara
    • 14:00 Kiyomizudera (500)
    • Sannenzaka by walking
    • Yasaka-no-to by walking
    • Yasakakoshindo by walking
    • 16:00 Hotel Kyoto
    • End of the tour

    What Is a Private Nara and Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. The day before, they had gone to the Arashiyama area as originally planned, and they mentioned they wanted to visit Nara in the morning, so today we went to Nara first. The event of feeding shika senbei (deer crackers) to the deer is always very popular. However, some of the deer have recently started biting quite strongly. One of the guests was bitten on the thigh and got a bruise, and another was bitten a little on the stomach and it turned red. I thought that from now on it might be better to feed the deer crackers in a calmer spot a little away from the central area where there are fewer deer, rather than in a place crowded with them. Since we were short on time, with the driver's permission we ate items bought at a convenience store inside the vehicle on the way back to Kyoto. In the afternoon it cleared up and the strong sunlight beat down, and around Yasaka Pagoda some of the guests looked a little tired. The final destination was Kennin-ji Temple, but when I asked whether they would like to return to the hotel or go to Kennin-ji, they said they would like to return to the hotel, so I saw them off at the hotel and concluded the tour.

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

    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!

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Hotel ~ 8:50-10:10 Fushimi Inari ~ 10:40-11:20 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove ~ 11:30~12:30 Tenryu-ji ~ 13:00-13:40 Kinkaku-ji – 14:10~14:30 Nishiki Market

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Highlights Tour by Car Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a close-knit group visiting from North America. As they preferred to skip lunch and see as many places as possible, I arranged an itinerary covering the highlights of Kyoto. Perhaps because the weather was unusually pleasant for this time of year, the temperature was high, and as they were not accustomed to Japan's climate, they appeared a little tired at each stop and often seemed eager to return to the car early. Even so, they seemed to be impressed by the beauty of the scenery at each location, especially the bamboo grove and the garden of Tenryu-ji Temple. We finished by introducing the distinctive ingredients found at Nishiki Market.

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

    Tour Report by JOY

    Hello. It is very nice to meet you. My name is Etsuko Nakaba. I am based in the Kansai Area, which includes popular sightseeing spots
    such as the old capital Kyoto with many old temples, Nara, which is well known for vowing deer, and Osaka-the city of gourmet, entertainment and commerce.

    The Kansai area was the center of Japanese culture, as this is the place where the capital of Japan was located in the olden times.
    I was born and raised in a historical city Kobe, which is also in the Kansai area.　The city is famous for its port and old residences
    of merchants from Europe and Asia, as it opened its port for forreign trade about 150 years ago.
    It is also well known for the premium quality beef-Kobe Beef.
    The melting in the mouth texture is what every tourist would like to try. It is also one of the best 3 Japanese sake producing spots.
    Sake’s refined taste goes with not only Japanese traditional quisine, but also various dishes from around the worldaround.
    I am certain of its good match with Kobe beef. Some sake breweries show traditional sake making process, which are intriguing.
    It is also renowned for being home to one of the 3 oldest hot springs in Japan, Arima.The color of the water is gold,
    as it contains a lot of iron. It was frequented by a famous warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi 500 years ago.

    I love my hometown Kobe; however, I also lived in Tokyo for 20 years. So, l know the allure
    of the representative two cities o feastern and western Japan, Tokyo and Osaka.
    As a matter of course, there are many hidden gems in each area, in the northern, middle, or southern Japan.
    For example, Himeji City, which is to the west of Kobe city is renowned for its 400 year old castle. which is a world cultural heritage site.
    It was built by a shogun, the leader of samaurai- feudal warriors and the de facto leader of the nation.
    The original structure of the castle transfers us back to the olden times governed by samurai.
    Though some people believe that they still exist, the class was abolished aobut 150 years ago due to the drastic political reform called “Meiji Restoration”.
    If you would like to, I could take you to the fascilities where you can see authentic samurai’s armor and swords.
    Ninja or secret agents, who served feudal lords, do not exist any more either. A ninja museum in Shiga prefecture was a residence of ninja before.
    It is not rennovated for the service, so you can enjoy the complicated interior with some contraptions to defeat the intruders.

    Japan has distinct four seasons, which makes this country more attractive. Each season has its own attractions.
    Spring and autumn are ideal for sightseeing, as the climate is mild and you can enjoy beautiful scenery such as cherry blossoms or autumn foliage.
    Between summer and autumn, there is the rainy season which lasts for about a month. This season feartures hydrangeas.
    A historical city Kamakura, where the first samurai government started, is embraced by a serene atomosphere in June, as the combination of the
    old temples and the delicate beauty of hydrangeas in the overcast or rainy weather is the essence of Japanese beauty.

    The southern island Kyushu was also a gate for overseas trade. Okinawa also has its own unique and rich culture, as it was not a part of Japan in the past.
    It was an independent country called ” Ryukyu Kingdom.”in the past.
    The beauty of the ocean and the unique culture and food have been captivating the hearts of the people all over the world.

    Like these, Japan is filled with historical and natural beauty.Furthermore, traditional Japanese quisene is an intangible world cultural heritage.
    It would be an honor if I could introduce you even one of them.
    I am thrilled to meet you and iintroduce the beauty of Japan to you.

    Request Booking

    Jul 30, 2026
    Donald_C
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    A Day to Remember!
    Etsuko was so knowledgeable and as…

    Jun 17, 2026
    Jason_W
    Viator review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely amazing tour and guide
    This was the perfect Kyoto tour for…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Malcolm_S
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Custom Private Tour of Kyoto
    Our tour guide,…

    May 29, 2026
    Andrew_B
    Viator review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Etsuko was an exceptional…
    Etsuko was an exceptional tour guide. She catered…