Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at Hyatt Regency Tokyo→9:00 Cherry blossom viewing at Shinjuku Gyoen→10:00 Worship at Akasaka Hie Shrine→11:00 Origami experience at Ochanomizu Origami Kaikan→12:20 Worship at Sensoji Temple→13:30 Akihabara Electric Town→14:00 Farewell at Don Quijote Akihabara Store

    What Is a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shinjuku Gyoen, Asakusa, and Akihabara After meeting at the Hotel, we began at our first destination, Shinjuku Gyoen, where we strolled through the garden while admiring cherry blossoms in full bloom, enjoying Japan in the pleasant spring weather. At the next destination, Hie Shrine, we took commemorative photos against the backdrop of the red torii gates, fully savoring an atmosphere that felt quintessentially Japanese. After that, at one of the main destinations, the Origami Kaikan in Ochanomizu, the guests received a lecture from the director and tried making origami themselves, becoming captivated by its charm. Combined with the following visits to Sensoji Temple and a game arcade in Akihabara, the guests seemed impressed by the many different faces that Japan has to offer.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherNishi-Shinjuku~Shinjuku-gyoemmae178JPY
    Section 2OtherShinjuku-gyoemmae~Akasaka-mitsuke178JPY
    Section 3OtherOchanomizu~Ueno155JPY
    Section 4OtherUeno~Asakusa178JPY
    Section 5OtherAsakusa~Kanda178JPY
    Section 6OtherKanda~Akihabara155JPY
    Total1,022JPY

    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.

    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…

    Apr 11, 2026
    Brandon2116
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Personalized Tokyo Experience
    Booking a private tour with Kaz was the perfect…

    Mar 29, 2026
    Stacy_A
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Thanks, Kaz! We recommend this tour.
    Great experience – it was…

  • Miyagi in Half a Day: Zuihoden by Loople Sendai

    Miyagi in Half a Day: Zuihoden by Loople Sendai

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ Sendai Station
    • 9:20-9:33 Move to Zuihoden by Loople Sendai
    • 9:40 @ Zuihoden
    • 10:33-10:38 Move to Sendai City Museum by Loople Sendai
    • 10:50 @ Sendai City Museum
    • 11:38-12:03 Move to Osaki Hachimangu by Loople Sendai
    • 12:10 @ Osaki Hachimangu
    • 12:43-13:07 Move to Sendai Station by Loople Sendai
    • 13:10 @ Disband in front of Sendai Station

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Sendai Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests had lived in the Shiogama and Sendai area about thirty years ago, and we enjoyed talking about many things. During our email exchanges, when I mentioned that Shiogama was the neighboring town, they asked "Which town?" and when I answered, they said "Shichigahama? I've been there. I once taught English at a kindergarten." I replied, "Was it near the sea? That's the kindergarten I graduated from!" What an amazing coincidence. They said they would go to Shiogama and Matsushima on their own later, so for this tour they asked me to focus on Sendai. As we traveled, we reminisced about their life in Miyagi and about how a kindergarten teacher had asked them to teach English there. When they wondered whether Shiogama had changed a lot, I answered, "The basic places haven't changed. New shops and a museum have opened." Perhaps because today was a weekday with cloudy skies, the Loople bus was much emptier than the last time I rode it. As the vehicle is small, we still couldn't get seats, though. At Zuihoden, the guests were very knowledgeable about history and had read a book about Japanese history in advance. They looked at the exhibits in the museum with great enthusiasm. Incidentally, unlike a few years ago, this time when a guide-interpreter accompanied the guests we received "complimentary tickets." I showed my guide license just in case. A few years ago guides also had to pay the admission fee, so perhaps the policy has changed. The guests had brought their goshuin (temple stamp) books to both Zuihoden and Osaki Hachimangu and wished to receive stamps, so I inquired at the counters, but both offered only pre-written slips. At Osaki Hachimangu, a set of five goshuin cost a suggested donation of 1,000 yen, which I thought was expensive. I wish it were like other temples and shrines where you can choose the stamp you like and offer a smaller donation. By the way, when I mentioned that Shiogama Shrine, Zuiganji, and Entsuin write the stamps by hand in your book, they said they were looking forward to visiting after thirty years. On the way back, we took the same train; I got off at Tagajo Station and the guests got off at Hon-Shiogama Station, where we parted ways. They asked me how to get to the Sendai Daikannon the next day, and where they could eat gyoza near Hon-Shiogama. I told them time was tight, but that a certain restaurant should still be open, so they should hurry after getting off. When I told them that early-blooming cherry blossoms had been in bloom at Shiogama Shrine the day before, so they should look forward to it, they seemed very happy.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassIn front of Sendai Station~In front of Zuihoden630JPY
    Section 2Free PassIn front of Zuihoden~In front of Museum・International Center・Ryokusaikan0JPY
    Section 3Free PassIn front of Museum・International Center・Ryokusaikan~In front of Osaki Hachimangu0JPY
    Section 4Free PassIn front of Osaki Hachimangu~In front of Sendai Station0JPY
    Total630JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Yanaka Ginza

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Yanaka Ginza

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:50 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 09:30 Shibuya Scramble Crossing & Hachiko
    • 10:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:20 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:30 Lunch @ Tanaka Soba Asakusa Branch
    • 13:10 Senso-ji Temple
    • 14:10 Yanaka Ginza
    • 15:15 Disband @ Hotel

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of friends visiting Japan for the first time from North America. After sightseeing in Tokyo, they planned to depart on a cruise tour. At Meiji Shrine, they seemed impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere, which was very different from Shibuya. They listened with interest to the historical explanation about Emperor Meiji and the Meiji Restoration. At Tsukiji, they were surprised by the many shops in the outer market and the large number of tourists. At Sensoji Temple, they listened with interest to the explanation about the difference between temples and shrines and about Kaminarimon Gate. At Yanaka Ginza, they showed interest in the atmosphere of an old Japanese shopping street. Although it unfortunately began to rain in the afternoon, I responded according to the guests' wishes, so I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNishi-Shinjuku~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya~Harajuku160JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-Jingumae~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa~Ueno180JPY
    Section 6TrainUeno~Nippori160JPY
    Section 7TrainNippori~Shinjuku260JPY
    Section 8SubwayShinjuku~Nishi-Shinjuku180JPY
    Total1,540JPY

    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

    Jul 10, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Beautiful Tour of Kamakura
    Seizo Kamiuto was out…

    Jun 9, 2026
    stacy_grana
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with an experienced guide
    Our guide, Seizo, was amazing.…

    Jun 6, 2026
    U9351HJjakes
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Seizo Kamiuto was great and super knowledgeable. He had a…

    May 20, 2026
    HugoJ670
    Tripadvisor review: Edo Tokyo & Japanese Culture Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Tokio in de zon
    Seizo Kaminto is een uitstekende…

  • Kyoto in 1 Day from Kobe: Customized Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Kobe: Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Port Terminal ~8:00~ Fushimi Inari 9:40 ~ Gion-Shijo 11:20 ~ Hanamikoji 11:30 ~ Nishiki Market 13:40 ~ Nijo Castle 14:30 ~ Kyoto Station 16:00 ~ Shin-Kobe 17:00

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Nijo Castle, and Gion The guests were visitors from North America, traveling with a travel agency. It was their first time in Japan, so I guided them to some of the most representative sightseeing spots. I took them to Fushimi Inari, Nijo Castle, and Gion, and they enjoyed every destination. Partway through, it began to rain, so some of the sightseeing was done from the car, but they were impressed by the elegant scenery of the cherry blossoms and willow trees along Gion Shirakawa. They also said that Nijo Castle was very interesting. Around noon the rain became heavier, so much of the sightseeing was done from the car. On the way back, since there was a plan to take the Shinkansen, I quickly arranged Shinkansen tickets from Kyoto to Shin-Kobe. They said it was very comfortable.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSannomiya~Inari1,300JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari~Gion-Shijo240JPY
    Section 3TrainKyoto~Shin-Kobe1,110JPY
    Total2,650JPY

    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.

    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…

    May 21, 2026
    Claire_G
    Viator review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Day Trip to Kyoto
    We could not have got around Kyoto in…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Otemachi Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Otemachi Station & Shibuya Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: Hotel Otemachi
    • 10:10 Hotel
    • (walk)
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 10:20 Arrive at Otemachi Station
    • 11:00 Depart from Otemachi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 11:30 Arrive at Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • Shinjuku-gyoemmae Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 12:30 Depart from Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 12:40 Arrive at Shinjuku Station
    • Shinjuku Kabukicho
    • Lunch: Okonomiyaki
    • 13:30 Depart from Shinjuku Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • 13:50 Arrive at Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • 14:40 Depart from Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 15:00 Arrive at Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 15:30 Depart from Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line)
    • 16:00 Arrive at Otemachi Station
    • 16:00 Dismissal: Otemachi Station

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Walking Tour of Tokyo Like in Cherry Blossom Season? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America, enjoying travel after retirement. They arrived at Haneda on a direct flight two days earlier, and the previous day they had visited Disneyland/DisneySea (though they mentioned, "The park was extremely crowded, so we could only ride a very few attractions."). This visit to Japan was a long trip in total. In addition to Tokyo, they planned to visit Hakone, Hida-Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Nara, Naoshima, and Hiroshima one after another. After returning to Tokyo, they planned to return home. They said, "We are looking forward to seeing a festival in Hida-Takayama and enjoying the atmosphere of Kyoto." They also said, "We want to fully enjoy the cherry blossoms." The tour took place under a continuous light rain. First, we walked to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. The cherry blossoms within the gardens were almost in full bloom. Despite the rain, there were many tourists. I explained about "Japan's history from the Edo to the Meiji period," "the Meiji Restoration," "why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace," "the history of the Imperial Family," "World War II and the air raids on Tokyo," and "how the stone walls were built." There were questions and comments such as "Does the current Emperor of Japan hold any political power?", "Who will be the next Emperor?", and "Can a woman become Emperor?" We moved on to Shinjuku Gyoen. Here too, despite the rain, there were many tourists. I explained about "the history and current state of Shinjuku Gyoen." Here too, the cherry blossoms were almost in full bloom. They eagerly took commemorative photos in front of the cherry trees here and there. They also said, "The pine trees in the garden are wonderful," and eagerly took photos in various spots. They also said, "The Japanese garden is wonderful. I am creating a Japanese garden in my own yard as well." We moved to the east exit of Shinjuku. I explained "the history of Shinjuku" and "the difference between the east and west exits of Shinjuku." We strolled through Kabukicho. They eagerly photographed the "3D cat billboard" and the "Godzilla Head." Since they said, "We really want to eat 'okonomiyaki' for lunch," we went to a restaurant in Kabukicho. They also enjoyed some beer. We moved to Harajuku. Meiji Shrine was also full of tourists despite the rain. I explained about "Shinto," "torii gates," "Emperor Meiji," "why sake barrels are displayed," and "why wine barrels are displayed." There were questions such as "What kind of religion is Shinto?" and "How is Buddhism different from Shinto?" We took a break at "Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu." We moved to Shibuya. After viewing Scramble Square from the platform at Inokashira, we actually crossed the intersection. There were questions such as "How many people gather at the busiest times?" and "Why did it become so famous?" We also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. We also strolled along Shibuya Center-Gai. There were comments and questions such as "Tokyo is clean throughout the city with no litter," "The public toilets are clean and free, which is much appreciated," "There are no trash bins around the city. Why is that?", "Everyone is quiet on the trains," and "We don't see any homeless people." I saw the guests off at Otemachi Station, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherOtemachi~Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station210JPY
    Section 2TrainShinjuku-gyoemmae~Shinjuku180JPY
    Section 3TrainShinjuku (Tokyo Metro)~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 4TrainMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 5TrainShibuya~Otemachi (Tokyo)210JPY
    Total960JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in One Day: Arashiyama Monkey Park & Kinkakuji

    Kyoto in One Day: Arashiyama Monkey Park & Kinkakuji

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Hotel Meet (@Hyatt Place Kyoto)
    • 12:00-13:00 Travel (Subway; Marutamachi→Shijo, Hankyu Railway; Karasuma→Arashiyama)
    • 13:10-14:00 Arashiyama Monkey Park
    • 14:00-15:20 Arashiyama Walk (Arashiyama Park, Togetsukyo Bridge, Kameyama Park, Bamboo Grove, Nonomiya Shrine)
    • 15:20-16:10 Travel (Keifuku Railway; Arashiyama→Kitano-Hakubaicho, City Bus; Kitano-Hakubaicho→Kinkakuji-michi
    • 16:10-17:00 Kinkakuji Visit
    • 17:00-17:30 Travel (Taxi; Kinkakuji→Hotel/Hyatt Place Kyoto)
    • 17:30 Based on the customer's request, the tour ended early. We said goodbye in front of the hotel

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Kyoto Day Tour of Arashiyama and Kinkaku-ji? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Some of the guests had been to Japan before, but it was their first time sightseeing in Kyoto. One of the guests was a fan of Japanese anime. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led the group to the Arashiyama Monkey Park, Arashiyama Park, Kameyama Park, the Bamboo Grove, and Kinkaku-ji. Although it was unfortunately rainy, the weather was not too bad, and a good number of cherry blossoms still remained in Arashiyama Park. One of the guests especially liked the scenery along the Oi River during the Arashiyama stroll and the cherry blossoms in Arashiyama Park. Another said the Bamboo Grove was the highlight. Another commented that the cedar trees seen on the way up to the Monkey Park were wonderful. The photo was taken beneath the cherry blossoms in full bloom at Arashiyama Park.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayMarutamachi (Kyoto Municipal)~Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)220JPY
    Section 2TrainKarasuma~Arashiyama (Hankyu Line)240JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)~Kitano-Hakubaicho250JPY
    Section 4BusKitano-Hakubaicho~Kinkakuji-michi / Kyoto Municipal Bus230JPY
    Total940JPY

    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 !

    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.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Beth_D
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Tour and Guide
    Michi was an excellent tour guide! He…

  • Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 13:00 Meet @ Himeji Station Central Ticket Gate
    • 2. 13:10 @ Castle View
    • 3. 13:35 @ Himeji Castle (Nishinomaru, Naga-tsubone Hyakken Corridor, Main Keep)
    • 4. 16:00 @ Koko-en Garden
    • 5. 17:00 Disband @ Omizosuji Shopping Street

    Himeji Castle Private Tour Report: What Can You See on a Half-Day Guided Visit? Today's guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. The tour was originally planned for a slightly larger group, but some of the guests were unable to join due to work. Today we visited Castle View, Himeji Castle (the West Bailey and the Hyakken Roka corridor, and the Main Keep), and Koko-en Garden. On the way back to Himeji Station, the guests said they would like to have a meal, so I guided them to the Omizosuji shopping street before ending the tour. It was a chilly day with rain today. The cherry blossoms were in bloom, but neither Himeji Castle nor Koko-en Garden was particularly crowded, and the guests toured both sites with great interest. Since the tour started in the afternoon, there was not much time to spare (due to the facilities' closing hours), and the tour ended without taking a break. When I asked the guests for their impressions at the end of the tour, they said they had a great time.

    Hello, my name is Norio Oki, a Government-Certified Tour Guide in Japan.
    I specialize in guiding visitors through the beautiful and historic regions of Himeji and Kobe.

    My expertise includes Japanese history, traditional culture, castles, and sake. I enjoy sharing not only facts, but also the stories and spirit behind each place.

    In Himeji, I offer guided tours of Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden, Shoshazan Engyoji Temple, and Nadagiku Sake Brewery.
    In Kobe, I guide guests through the Nada Sake Breweries area, Mt. Rokko, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, Harborland, Meriken Park, the Kitano District, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, and the lively Motomachi Shopping Street.

    Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local experiences, I will create a personalized tour tailored to your interests.

    If you’re planning to visit Himeji or Kobe, I would be delighted to be your guide.
    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Jul 7, 2026
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  • Hakone in 1 Day by Private Car

    Hakone in 1 Day by Private Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet, by car, 9:05 Owakudani, by ropeway to Togendai, arrive 10:05, 10:10 by pirate ship, disembark at Hakonemachi Port 10:35. Since it's not raining yet, after visiting Hakone Shrine, Maruyama Bussan presentation and shopping, tour Hakone Checkpoint, 12:00 purchase light meal at Hotoriya Coffee Stand, head to The Hakone Open-Air Museum, eat in the car while traveling, 12:30 enter the museum, after strolling, 14:00 by car to the hotel, 14:45 disperse at the hotel

    Title: What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour Like on a Rainy Day? A Licensed Guide's Report We headed straight to Owakudani hoping to show the guests Mount Fuji, but unfortunately it was not visible. Even so, the guests understood our good intentions, and together with the driver we all had an enjoyable time. As the guests were celebrating a milestone anniversary, we created our usual celebration board and took photos. After visiting Hakone Shrine, we stopped by a local specialty shop, whose presentation always delights guests, and the guests purchased some traditional marquetry (yosegi-zaiku) craftwork. As the rain grew heavier, I suggested visiting the indoor Okada Museum of Art, and the guests agreed, but when we arrived we found it had been closed for a while starting that day (this was not noted online). Once the rain eased, we went to the Hakone Open-Air Museum. There were cherry blossoms there, and the guests took photos from many different angles, so in the end they were very satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOdawara Station~Odawara Station0JPY
    Total0JPY

    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

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  • Hyogo: Akashi Kaikyo Bridge & Nankinmachi Chinatown

    Hyogo: Akashi Kaikyo Bridge & Nankinmachi Chinatown

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:15 Meet @ Naka Pier Passenger Terminal
    • 09:45 @ Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
    • 12:00 @ Kitano Ijinkan (Foreigners' Residences) District (Moegi House, Weathercock House) & Kitano Tenmangu Shrine (exterior only)
    • 13:00 @ Nunobiki Herb Garden
    • 14:30 @ Nankinmachi Chinatown
    • 15:15 Dismissal @ Sannomiya Center Gai

    What Is a Private Kobe Day Tour Like for Cruise Ship Guests? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America. Both the guests and the driver gathered a little early, and although the weather was unfortunately poor, everything proceeded smoothly. Regrettably, due to the bad weather, we were unable to see the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge or the panoramic view of Kobe from Nunobiki Herb Garden. In the Nankinmachi Chinatown, the guests enjoyed the authentic "Kobe beef" recommended by the guide, as well as the steamed pork buns at "Roushouki," said to be the birthplace of pork buns in Japan, and they commented that they were very satisfied. They were also delighted to receive a handmade drawstring pouch made by the guide's sibling. After finishing the visits to each spot, the guests wished to enjoy shopping on their own, so we parted ways with about 15 minutes remaining. Today's driver was very polite in both driving and manner, which was very pleasant. The vehicle used was of a higher class than the guide had ever experienced before, and its wonderful ride comfort also greatly satisfied the guests. Note) This time the guests again arrived by cruise ship. The docking location was listed as "Kobe Port Terminal," but the correct location was the "Naka Pier Cruise Terminal." Since I had confirmed the ship's name in advance and checked the local port authority website, there was no particular problem, but this kind of issue seems to have become common recently.

    Dear my guests,

    This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
    I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
    real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
    if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

    Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
    that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
    and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
    foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
    Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
    explanation for these three foods.

    1) Tako-yaki
    Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
    octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
    2) Okonomi-yaki
    This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
    Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
    3) Kushi-katsu
    Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
    ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

    Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
    that you like them very much.

    I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
    and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
    great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

    Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
    Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
    Yama

    Jul 25, 2026
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  • Tokyo in One Day: Tokyo Tower

    Tokyo in One Day: Tokyo Tower

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at lobby of HOTEL MYSTAYS PREMIER Hamamatsucho
    • <move by train >
    • 10:30 – 12:00 Tsukiji Fish outer market and early lunch
    • <move by train>
    • 12:30- 01:30 Tokyo Tower
    • <move by train>
    • 02:10 – 03:30 Asakusa Sensoji Buddism temple and shopping street
    • <move by train>
    • 03: 30 – 04:00 back to Daimon Sta.

    # What's a Private Food-Focused Tour of Tsukiji, Tokyo Tower, and Asakusa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private tour for a group supported by a wish-granting organization. The guests were mainly looking forward to enjoying food in Japan, so I first showed them around Tsukiji. They enjoyed grilled egg skewers and grilled eel skewers, and since some of the guests grew tired, we had lunch at a sushi restaurant. From Tokyo Tower we passed by Zojoji Temple, returned to Daimon Station, and headed to Asakusa. There they enjoyed various tastings and street food, such as fried rice cakes. Asakusa was quite crowded, and because the schedule ran long due to rest breaks, we did not view the cherry blossoms at Shiba Rikyu Garden, and instead parted ways at Daimon Station so they could head to their dinner restaurant.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainDaimon (Tokyo)~Tsukiji Market180JPY
    Section 2TrainTsukiji~Kamiyacho180JPY
    Section 3TrainDaimon (Tokyo)~Asakusa220JPY
    Section 4TrainAsakusa~Daimon (Tokyo)220JPY
    Total800JPY

    Hi I am Yosh, very nice to meet you!
    I am a tour guide around Tokyo and surrounding areas including Nikko, Kamakura, Hakone and Mt. Fuji area with qualification of nationwide professional tour guiding.
    I have been practicing Japanese martial arts, Karate and Aikido, from my childhood and I teach kids and beginners at Dojo school as an instructor.
    From my background I am especially into a tour guiding about Samurai, Sumo and Zen style temples deeply related with Japanese martial arts.
    I was born, raised and live in Tokyo and Kanagawa prefecture for over 50 years, so I am familiar with Tokyo capital area and I can arrange the free choice tour for you based on your taste and interest.
    I also want you to enjoy Japanese cuisine and Sake at traditional or modern restaurants as part of Japanese precious culture experience.
    I really like my profession of tour guide because I am always shared with happy emotion of the guests through the tour.
    I am really look forward to seeing you soon!
    Yosh

    Apr 28, 2026
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