Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto: Hyatt Place Kyoto & Sanjusangendo Temple

    Kyoto: Hyatt Place Kyoto & Sanjusangendo Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Hyatt Place Kyoto
    • 9:20-9:50 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Path
    • 10:20-11:00 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 11:30-12:10 Nijo Castle
    • 12:20-13:40 Lunch (Kappo cuisine Fukuyasu)
    • 14:00-14:40 Sanjusangendo Temple
    • 15:00 Guide to Takashimaya at Shijo Kawaramachi, Iwai in Shinkyogoku, and Aritsugu in Nishiki Market, then disband

    What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. The planned itinerary was Hotel → the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove → Kinkaku-ji → Nijo Castle → lunch (a kappo restaurant) → Fushimi Inari Taisha → Hotel. However, the departure was delayed, and since everyone went at their own pace and took many photos, we fell behind schedule overall. So after lunch I changed the plan to Sanjusangendo, and as the guests also wished to do some shopping, I extended the tour by 30 minutes and guided them to several shops around Shijo Kawaramachi, Shinkyogoku, and Nishiki Market before we parted ways. The guests were in great spirits and, teasing one another along the way and in the car, it was a very lively day. What they were especially delighted with that day were the lunch and Sanjusangendo. For lunch I took them to a kappo restaurant — a small local establishment frequented by residents — and they were thrilled to enjoy authentic local cuisine in a setting full of Kyoto atmosphere. With some drinks flowing, the conversation blossomed into forbidden topics (such as the landmines that anger one's spouse and how to avoid them). Sanjusangendo was originally not on the itinerary, but when they beheld the overwhelming sight of the array of Buddhist statues, they took their time to view them slowly and carefully. At the end, I guided them to a department store, a shop in Shinkyogoku, and a shop in Nishiki Market, and then we parted ways.

    My name is Masaki Kitagawa, a male in the middle of 50s living in Kyoto with my wife, son and three cats. While working for a local energy company on weekdays, I’ve been a tour guide on weekends since 2019 and enjoy interacting with people coming from different worlds. It is my great pleasure to help you make your excursion time-efficient and pleasant even during the high seasons in Kyoto. Considering your interests, preferences and priorities, I want to design and make your journey fruitful one. I’m thrilled to be contacted from you. Let’s explore Kyoto !

    Jun 3, 2026
    Nikki G
    Wonderful experience with a great guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Masaki was our guide through…

    May 24, 2026
    Pamela_C
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Perfect day in Kyoto with the best guide!…

    May 4, 2026
    TravelersHigh77
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent English speaking guide for Kyoto
    Masaki was s wonderful and patient…

    Nov 29, 2025
    vsairamkumar
    Kyoto guided tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had great fun exploring Kyoto with Masaki San.…

  • Kyoto: Nijo Castle & Sanjusangendo

    Kyoto: Nijo Castle & Sanjusangendo

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Hotel The M's Kyoto
    • (Subway)
    • 11:30-12:00 Nijo Castle
    • (Subway)
    • 12:30-13:15 Lunch at the Kitaoji food court (Marugame Seimen)
    • (Taxi)
    • 13:30-14:00 Shimogamo Shrine
    • (Taxi + Keihan + Taxi)
    • 14:45-15:30 Chishakuin Temple, National Treasure Museum
    • 15:45-16:15 Sanjusangendo
    • (Taxi)
    • 16:30 Hotel The M's Kyoto (Part ways with the host)
    • 17:00 Assist with purchasing next day's Shinkansen tickets at Kyoto Station, then part ways

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like for Guests Wanting Fewer Hills and Stairs? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were older visitors from North America. Regarding the itinerary, I had received a request in advance to minimize hills and stairs due to mobility difficulties, and also to avoid the crowds of the Golden Week holiday period. Based on this, I planned the route as Hotel → Nijo Castle → lunch (inside a mall in the Kitaoji area) → Shimogamo Shrine → Chishakuin Temple → Sanjusangendo → Hotel, and at the end I accompanied one of the guests to Kyoto Station to assist with purchasing shinkansen tickets for the following day before we parted ways. Both guests appeared to be tired from their travels from the outset, and since walking was quite challenging for the group, we used taxis even for short distances and I offered options along the way to shorten the itinerary as needed, but we managed to visit all four planned locations. For lunch, the guests enjoyed udon from Marugame Seimen at the food court of the Kitaoji Aeon Mall, and appreciated the high quality of Japanese fast food.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto~Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijojo-mae~Kitaoji260JPY
    Section 3TrainDemachiyanagi~Shichijo300JPY
    Total820JPY

    My name is Masaki Kitagawa, a male in the middle of 50s living in Kyoto with my wife, son and three cats. While working for a local energy company on weekdays, I’ve been a tour guide on weekends since 2019 and enjoy interacting with people coming from different worlds. It is my great pleasure to help you make your excursion time-efficient and pleasant even during the high seasons in Kyoto. Considering your interests, preferences and priorities, I want to design and make your journey fruitful one. I’m thrilled to be contacted from you. Let’s explore Kyoto !

    Jun 3, 2026
    Nikki G
    Wonderful experience with a great guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Masaki was our guide through…

    May 24, 2026
    Pamela_C
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Perfect day in Kyoto with the best guide!…

    May 4, 2026
    TravelersHigh77
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent English speaking guide for Kyoto
    Masaki was s wonderful and patient…

    Nov 29, 2025
    vsairamkumar
    Kyoto guided tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had great fun exploring Kyoto with Masaki San.…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 10:00  Tour starts from the hotel
    • Transfer Railway Arashiyama
    • AM 10:45-PM12:00 Visit the bamboo grove and Tenryu-ji Temple garden
    • Transfer Railway & Bus Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • PM 12:45-13:45
    • Transfer Bus & Railway  Gion
    • PM 14:30-16:00 Stroll from Gion to Higashiyama, tour ends at the Yasaka Pagoda

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji, and Higashiyama The guests were a group visiting Japan, for whom this was the only day available in Kyoto, so this tour was requested for that reason. We had originally planned to visit Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji, and Nijo Castle, but since some of the guests also wanted to do some shopping, we decided to go to Higashiyama instead of Nijo Castle. Some of the guests wanted to see the Yasaka Pagoda of Hokan-ji Temple, so this worked out well. However, near the Yasaka Pagoda we were caught in a sudden rain shower, so for a late lunch and to take shelter from the rain, I guided them to a udon restaurant they had requested, and the tour concluded there.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto City Hall~Nijo220JPY
    Section 2TrainNijo~Saga-Arashiyama200JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)~Kitano-Hakubaicho250JPY
    Section 4BusKitano-Hakubaicho~Kinkaku-ji-michi/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 5BusKinkaku-ji-michi/Kyoto City Bus~Kitaoji Bus Terminal (Subway Kitaoji Station)/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 6SubwayKitaoji~Sanjo Keihan260JPY
    Section 7TrainSanjo Keihan~Gion-Shijo180JPY
    Total1,570JPY

    Hello , My name is Hideharu Yoshino . Just call me” Yoshi” .
    I have been involved with many foreign Business partners through my business life for 38 years ,
    Based on my work experience , I would like to try my best to make you comfortale and Happy fruitful times during your stay in Japan .
    Not only giving you basic tourist information about famous sightseeing spot , also I would enjoy to give you the back ground inofrmation in my word.
    ” Once in a lifetime encounter ” Let’s enjoy with me Miracle time to be picked up from 6 billion in somewhere Japan!

    Sep 29, 2026
    matthewsY2654UC
    Highly recommended!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Yoshi is an exceptional guide where he took us…

    Sep 28, 2026
    751juergend
    Perfect day in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the perfect guide, very…

    Sep 27, 2026
    karen_f
    YOSHI san was incredible!
    Viator review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    YOSHI met us at our…

    Sep 19, 2026
    Plumb72
    A morning in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a fab tour with Yoshi…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Jingu Shrine & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Jingu Shrine & Asakusa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at Hotel Ginza Tsukiji
    • 8:30 Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 9:50 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, the child wouldn't stop crying, so we took quite a long break
    • 12:05 Break @Tully's Coffee Ueno no Mori Sakura Terrace (guide did not stay)
    • 12:50 Asakusa (after breastfeeding and resting at the Culture Tourism Center, took photos of Skytree)
    • 13:45 Disband in front of Asakusa Maguro to Shari Asakusa branch

    Can You Do a Private Tokyo Tour with a Baby Stroller? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Tokyo. They had requested an elevator-accessible route, so I paid careful attention to that. The weather was fair with no rain, though it felt hot when the sun was out. One of the guests had not slept well the night before and did not seem to be feeling their best. The group's youngest member stayed quiet until we entered the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, but there cried strongly at times, which was difficult for the group. We took quite a bit of time for breaks. We had planned to see Ueno Toshogu Shrine and other sights, but due to fatigue the group only rested at Ueno before heading to Asakusa, took photos at Azumabashi Bridge, and I then guided them to the requested lunch spot, where the tour ended. I received a tip.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassHigashi-Ginza~Meiji-jingumae700JPY
    Section 2Free PassMeiji-jingumae~Otemachi0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTakebashi~Ueno0JPY
    Section 4Free PassUeno~Asakusa0JPY
    Total700JPY

    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.

    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…

  • Nara in One Day: Kasuga-taisha Shrine & Traditional Japanese house

    Nara in One Day: Kasuga-taisha Shrine & Traditional Japanese house

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:55 Kintetsu-Nara Station (Start of Tour) → 17:00 End of tour
    • Bus
    • 11:20-50 Kasuga-taisha Shrine (UNESCO World Heritage)
    • entrance: 700 yen
    • walk10 minutes
    • 12:10-20 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill:
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 12:30- Todaiji Temple (UNESCO World Heritage):
    • 12:30-13:00 Todaiji's Nigatsudo Hall
    • (Lunch at Emado Chaya)
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 13:10-20 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower
    • walk 10 minutes
    • 13:40-14:10 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall
    • walk 5 minutes & cofee break
    • 14:50-15:00 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate)
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 15:10-15:50 Yoshikien Garden
    • walk 3 minutes
    • 16:00-30 Traditional Japanese house:
    • the former residence of Photographer Taikichi Irie
    • walk 5 minutes & bus
    • 17:00 back at Kintetsu-Nara Station (End of Tour)

    What Is a Private Nara Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America. I was a little concerned about mobility beforehand, but the group managed to walk throughout the day. While playing with the deer, I explained the historical evolution of Shinto and Buddhism little by little, and the guests asked many questions. We were able to cover the planned course except for Naramachi. I sent the photos I took along the way via a messaging app after the tour ended, but the guests also asked me to send them by email. Since there were about 40 photos, they could not be sent as a normal attachment. While I was preoccupied with figuring out how to send them, it seems I forgot to submit the tour report. Another reason is likely that I had a tour scheduled the following day, so my attention had shifted to that. I apologize for the inconvenience. I am very sorry. I look forward to continuing to work with you.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKintetsu-Nara Station/Nara Kotsu~Kasuga-taisha Shrine Main Hall/Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Section 2BusTodaiji Great Buddha Hall・National Museum/Nara Kotsu~Kintetsu-Nara Station/Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Total500JPY

    Hello! Thank you for choosing Nara! I bet you’ll love Nara. I specialize in Nara because Nara is the unique place where in one day you can cover the history and religions of Japan from the ancient times to the post war era while enjoying rambling in the UNESCO World Heritage park, having communication with lovely deer, surrounded with the beautiful nature.
    I grew up in Nara, went university in Kyoto, enjoyed teaching at high schools and a university in Osaka. The three former capitals of Japan are home to me.
    After retiring from teaching I began guiding so that I can meet various people from various corners of the world with a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Each time I guide, I find it hugely rewarding because I learn a lot from my guests sharing the history, culture and all that I know about Nara, Kyoto and Osaka.
    I used to be a marathon runner, mountain climber and skier though I am not much of them anymore.
    What I especially recommend is to stay in Nara a couple of days and enjoy communicating with friendly deer while visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nara in early morning, temples and shrines at night are well worth experiencing.

    May 16, 2026
    I3520JTcristinat
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nara with family
    Excellent tour with Junichi!!! Perfect English speaking guide and…

    May 3, 2026
    Maria_J
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyable day in Nara
    We spent 6 hours in Nara with Junichi…

    Apr 11, 2026
    64sandig
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Osaka DEP. with Licensed Guide
    ????? Absolutely Outstanding ? Junichi Made Our Nara Day…

    Mar 30, 2026
    dpadillachavez
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
    Great day at Nara!
    Best tour on Nara, Junichi…

  • Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour

    Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9am Meet at Shimizu Port→Chartered Taxi→10:15 Shiraito Falls→11:30 World Heritage Center→12:15 Lunch→13:15 Fujinomiya Sengen Shrine→15:00 Shimizu Port

    What's a Private Day Trip from Shimizu Port to Mount Fuji Like? A Licensed Guide's Report After meeting at Shimizu Port, we headed to Shiraito Falls. The strong winds and rain from the previous night had cleared, and Mount Fuji appeared crisp and clear, which delighted the guests. After enjoying plenty of mist at the falls, we visited the Mount Fuji World Heritage Centre and admired the majestic Mount Fuji from the rooftop deck. After lunch, we headed to Fujinomiya Sengen Shrine. It happened to be the day of the shrine's festival, so we enjoyed the lively atmosphere with rows of food stalls amid a large crowd. We were also able to watch a rehearsal of yabusame (horseback archery) and witness a traditional Japanese event. The guests appeared to genuinely enjoy both Mount Fuji and the Japanese festival.

    My name is Kazunori Honma, I live in Odawara city near Hakone facing Pacific Ocean, so I am familiar with Mt. Fuji and Hakone area. In particular, nature, history, culture and food in the region are my specialty. I know a lot of Shinto shrines, temples, and hiking trails. Plus, I love art, so I am able to guide you to a wide variety of art museums in Mt. Fuji and Hakone area. If you are an art lover, you will be able to spend a fulfilling time with me.
    I thoroughly make preparations for your interests and needs to satisfy you with all my effort in advance. I’m sure you will definitely be happy with spending a day with me.

    Sep 25, 2026
    scottrE3713WR
    Great Mt. Fuji experience!
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kaz was amazing! Great communication before…

    Aug 27, 2026
    H694KFjoannet
    Great Day in Shimizu
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    We had a great experience with…

    Jun 4, 2026
    Companion12422328239
    Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Shizuoka Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Great views of Mt Fuji and local tea
    We had…

    May 28, 2026
    kam_g
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    The guide was very nice…
    The guide was very…

  • Osaka 6hr Private Guided Tour & Sushi Making Experience

    Osaka 6hr Private Guided Tour & Sushi Making Experience

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 Hotel ~ Osaka Castle 8:20-10:00 ~ Shinsaibashi Doguyasuji 10:20-10:50 ~ Dotonbori 11:00-11:20 ~ Shinsaibashi Shopping Street ~ 11:45 Sushi Making Studio

    Title: What's a Private History-Focused Walking Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America and had a strong interest in history. Their original plan did not include entering the main keep of Osaka Castle, but as we talked, they decided they wanted to see the exhibits inside. Since it was still early in the morning, the queue was not very long, so we were able to enter quickly, and they enjoyed the view from the top floor as well as exhibits on the life of Hideyoshi and displays of authentic armor. Afterwards, at Doguyasuji, they were amazed by the wider-than-expected variety of kitchen tools on offer. It rained that day, but we walked to Dotonbori, where they took in the many famous signs, and after I introduced some popular shops, we strolled through the Shinsaibashi shopping arcade and I guided them to a sushi-making studio to end the tour. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. Winner of Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

    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.

    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…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Karasuma Oike & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto in One Day: Karasuma Oike & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:15 meet @nol Kyoto Sanjo
    • 8:33-8:42 Karasuma Oike → Uzumasa Tenjingawa, subway 260 yen
    • 8:53-9:07 Randen Tenjingawa → Arashiyama, Randen 250 yen
    • 9:10-10:30 Tenryu-ji Temple & Bamboo Grove Path sightseeing
    • 10:47-10:54 Saga-Arashiyama → Enmachi, JR 180 yen
    • 11:20-12:00 Kinkaku-ji Temple sightseeing
    • 12:10-12:32 Enmachi → Inari, 200 yen
    • 12:40-13:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine sightseeing
    • 13:37-13:46 Fushimi Inari → Gion-Shijo, Keihan 240 yen
    • 14:00-14:40 Lunch at Burger POLICE KYOTO, disperse after lunch

    What Does a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji, and Fushimi Inari The guests were a group visiting from North America. We had been unable to reach them until the day before, so I was even prepared for a no-show, but it turned out that a messaging app malfunction was the cause, and once it was reinstalled we were able to communicate, so the tour went ahead without any trouble. We toured the Arashiyama area, Kinkaku-ji, and Fushimi Inari Taisha. The guests enjoyed photography and, in addition to my photo album, took many pictures of their own. For lunch, they wanted to visit a burger restaurant that had been recommended by a friend, so we went to a place in the Gion-Shijo area. The weather held up until the very end, and we were able to finish without being caught in the rain.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKarasuma Oike~Uzumasa Tenjingawa260JPY
    Section 2TrainRanden Tenjingawa~Arashiyama (Keifuku Line)250JPY
    Section 3TrainSaga-Arashiyama~Enmachi180JPY
    Section 4TrainEnmachi~Inari200JPY
    Section 5TrainFushimi Inari~Gion-Shijo240JPY
    Total1,130JPY

    Hello! I am Andy Murao. I love this job as I can visit various destinations with the people from all over the world. I am always thinking that I could help you know more about Japan and understand the attractiveness of Japan.

    I would like to provide a tour in accordance with your request and preference. Please let me know what you want to see, eat, experience, etc. and then I will propose a schedule based on them.

    There is one point to note. I like walking very much, so I might be a guide who forces you to take long walks.

    I look forward to attending you in Japan.

    Best regards,

    Andy Murao

    Sep 20, 2026
    Bobby_B
    A great Kyoto guide.
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Andy was very nice and…

    Jul 13, 2026
    webstere2025
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent
    Andy(Atsushi) was great and communicated with us beforehand about our…

    Jun 21, 2026
    Catherine_D
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in Osaka
    Andy was great . On time and patience…

    Jun 6, 2026
    eyeessess
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour!
    Andy Murao was an amazing and wonderful tour guide.…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up @Hotel Tokyo
    • 2. 10:30 View from car window @Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 3. 10:45 @Meiji Shrine
    • 4. 12:00 @Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate, Outer Garden)
    • 5. 12:30 Lunch @Sapporo Taruzen (inside Shin-Marunouchi Building)
    • 6. 14:00 @Asakusa (Sensoji Temple)
    • 7. 15:00 Disband @Hotel Tokyo

    What Is a Private Family Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and Asakusa The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. Before coming to Japan, they had spent a few days in Asia, and they came from there to Japan, a nearby country they had never visited. After Tokyo, they were also planning to visit Kyoto. I provided explanations in English, but only occasionally did some of the guests converse with me in English, and much of the time the guests spoke among themselves in their own language. To keep the guests comfortable, I refrained from actively interjecting in English. At Meiji Shrine, we happened to come across a bride at a wedding ceremony, and one of the guests in particular was surprised. One of the guests was a smoker and smoked at the smoking area after visiting Meiji Shrine. While waiting, one of the guests, who had not originally intended to stop at a souvenir shop, looked into one and purchased a teapot. For the Imperial Palace visit, we walked from Sakuradamon to Nijubashi. We tried to approach the main gate, but the guests preferred not to even walk up from the stone bridge to the main gate, so we headed to the car waiting on Hibiya Street. Each time the guests got out of the car, one of them was concerned about the distance we would walk next, so I arranged the route to minimize walking as much as possible. I offered to help take photos of the whole group together, or in pairs, but for the most part each person took selfies. After that, the guests wished to have sushi for lunch, so I guided them to a sushi restaurant inside the Shin-Marunouchi Building. Seating a table for five would have meant a considerable wait, whereas a table for four could be seated right away, so I decided to wait outside and let the guests enjoy their sushi. There was an English menu, so there was no problem, but regarding wasabi, after confirming with the guests, I asked the staff in advance to serve it on the side of the plate. They spent about 40 minutes on the meal and seemed very satisfied. There happened to be a smoking area on the same floor, so one of the guests had a smoke after the meal. Next, we went to Asakusa. The atmosphere among the guests had brightened a little, and they were talking and laughing in the car. However, at Asakusa, when we tried to enter the Nakamise shopping street of Senso-ji, one of the guests seemed overwhelmed by the crowds and wanted to take a back street. We managed to proceed through areas with as few people as possible. However, the guests did not enter the main hall; only one of the guests entered the main hall with me. In the end, without touring Senso-ji or its surroundings any further, we exited through the Nitenmon gate and, at a pharmacy located there, I helped the guests purchase the cosmetics and medicines they had been looking for. There was also an idea to go to Ginza Street at the end, but ultimately, out of consideration for the guest who had been overwhelmed by the crowds, we decided to return to the hotel.

    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
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  • Kyoto in One Day: Sanjusangendo & Yasaka Shrine

    Kyoto in One Day: Sanjusangendo & Yasaka Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet up @ Hyatt Regency Kyoto
    • 11:15~12:30 Sanjusangendo
    • 12:30~13:00 Toyokuni Shrine, Hoko-ji Temple
    • 13:30~14:00 Lunch @ Satsukitei
    • 14:00~14:40 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 14:40~15:00 Kiyomizu-zaka
    • 15:25 Yasaka Pagoda
    • 15:30~15:45 Yasaka Shrine
    • 16:30 Dismissal @ Hyatt Regency Kyoto

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Walking Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of three visiting Japan. Since they were staying at a hotel near Sanjusangendo, we started there. All three were deeply moved by the carved Kannon statues inside the hall and listened attentively to my explanations. They appeared to be spiritually devout, offering candles and placing donations before the large Buddha statues as they prayed. They also listened enthusiastically to my explanation of the exhibits at the back. Most guests do not touch the model of the Thousand-Armed Kannon at the end, but one of the guests, seeing others touching it, felt it was acceptable and actually turned it to view its various features. Few guests usually show interest when I explain the Taiko-bei wall, but they had visited Osaka Castle the day before and knew of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. So when I later took them to the actual Taiko-bei wall, they took photographs. They were also interested in the Inari shrine on the grounds, and all three made an offering and prayed. It was generally a quiet place, and everyone liked it very much. Since they knew of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, I suggested visiting Toyokuni Shrine and Hoko-ji Temple. Of course, they made offerings and prayed here as well. We then moved on to Hoko-ji. In the past, one could climb the bell tower, but at some point a rope had been placed to prevent access. There was nothing to be done, so I explained the "Kokka Anko" story from a distance. Next we moved by bus to Kiyomizu-dera. On the way, at Chawanzaka, one of the guests bought a souvenir. For lunch they had udon dishes at a restaurant, along with desserts such as mitarashi dango, hiyashi-ame, and Uji matcha shaved ice. Since it was not midsummer, they left about half of the shaved ice. Then on to Kiyomizu-dera. I felt sorry that there were so many people, but I guided them there as a must-see of Kyoto sightseeing. Everything is a reconstruction by the Tokugawa shogunate, but they were still surprised that it was architecture from the 1600s. At last we reached the main hall. Perhaps because it was crowded, the metal railing had been removed. There was a long line, and I thought it was for the railing, but it turned out to be for worshipping Daikokuten. As usual, they made an offering and prayed. They also lined up to ring the keiko inside the main hall. One of the guests found it curious that sake was offered and asked, "Why is sake offered here?" After visiting the main hall, opinions were divided on whether to go all the way around or take a shortcut, but since they wanted to see the scenery, we decided to go all the way around. Many of the guests I have attended recently choose the shortcut, and seeing this crowd, that is understandable. After visiting the Koyasu Pagoda, one of the guests was quick to find an Inari shrine and, as usual, made an offering and prayed. Finally we saw the Otowa Waterfall. They joked that since the group already got along well, there was no need to line up, but perhaps there was a need to line up for their friend — that they could just put the water in a plastic bottle and take it home! Next we moved down Kiyomizu-zaka. Perhaps because it was Golden Week, it was especially crowded, so I urged them to be careful not to get separated. One of the guests had taken a liking to the Hotei figure seen at Sanjusangendo and bought a Hotei figurine for the group at a Buddhist goods shop. Behind me, some of the group kept talking about wanting to eat ice cream, and one of them bought matcha ice cream. It was a very cute ice cream, and when I pointed that out, they said that this guest loved ice cream and was always like this. Since they had also had matcha-flavored shaved ice for dessert at lunch, it seemed they were fond of matcha. Having done plenty of shopping, we continued down Kiyomizu-zaka, turned partway, and headed to Yasaka Pagoda. Here too one of the guests asked when it was built. As it was already 3:30, we headed to Yasaka Shrine. Just as I was about to have a leisurely conversation at Yasaka Shrine, it suddenly began to rain. For the moment, all four of us squeezed under my small folding umbrella, and I explained things hurriedly. I suggested visiting the Kanji Museum to see the Gion Festival floats, but the group said they wanted to return to the hotel, so we boarded a bus and headed back. We returned to the hotel before the scheduled tour time, and when I asked how they would like to proceed, they said, "It's because of the rain, so it's fine to end here. It was a fun tour. Thank you," and we said goodbye. Everyone was calm and relaxed, and I was able to guide them comfortably.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHakubutsukan Sanjusangendo-mae/Kyoto City Bus~Gojo-zaka/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2BusGion/Kyoto City Bus~Higashiyama Shichijo/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total460JPY

    I am a 54-year-old woman, living in Kyoto for nearly 40 years. I got the license in 2001. Since then, I worked as an interpreter or a translator in several companies, secretary at universities, and now work for a company on weekdays at the international dept.I do guiding job only weekend now. I started full swing guiding career after COVID-19 pandemic. I have gotten good review from many of my guests. I love my hometown, Kyoto which has a lot of interesting and historical sites to see. Particularly, I am native to Arashiyama which is famous for bamboo forest. So, I know a lot of places where you can relax yourself around this area. Other than that, Kyoto has many attractive sites which surely interest you.Also, I like meeting many people from different cultural background. I am very happy if I learn about your culture as well. Let’s enjoy exploring around Kyoto!

    May 18, 2026
    WENDY_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent day out
    The trip was really well planned and organised, it…

    Sep 21, 2025
    joshsJ915FC
    Super tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Really wonderful tour of markets and geisha district.…

    Jun 16, 2025
    Chanyl C
    Highly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My husband and I really enjoyed the Kyoto tour.…

    May 18, 2025
    Steve J
    A relaxing, enjoyable visit to Arashiyama.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Satori was very kind and…