Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Fish Market & Shibuya crossing

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Fish Market & Shibuya crossing

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting up
    • 9:30-10:50 Tsukiji Fish Market
    • 11:10-11:30 Omotesando Street
    • 11:30-12:10 Takeshita Street
    • 12:10-12:40 Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 12:50-13:00 Shibuya crossing

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour of Tsukiji, Harajuku, and Shibuya Like? A Licensed Guide's Report This tour was booked through a travel agency, but I was able to communicate directly with the guests via a messaging app the day before, which resulted in a change to the tour start time. Since the guests had already visited Kyoto, Osaka, and Kiso, we discussed their overall plans during their stay in Tokyo, and based on their wishes, today we visited Tsukiji, Harajuku, and Shibuya. As the guests both enjoy cooking, at Tsukiji they purchased knives, matcha, and dashi, and we had a lively conversation about cooking. I shared various shopping tips, including vintage shops around Omotesando. They were not particularly familiar with the differences between Shinto (shrines) and Buddhism (temples), but they listened carefully to my guiding and asked many questions.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShiodome~Tsukiji Market180JPY
    Section 2TrainTsukiji~Omotesando180JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku~Shibuya160JPY
    Total520JPY

    Hi,
    Thank you for contacting the Japan Guide Association to request a licensed guide for your upcoming visit to Japan. My name is Motoko Tanaka. I’m so happy to be assigned to you.
    Let me introduce myself. I was born and raised in Tokyo, so it is nice to hear that you are excited about your visit to this wonderful city. There is much to be excited about here in Tokyo. I have really enjoyed guiding in Tokyo and the surrounding areas for more than 10 years.
    I live with my husband and a dog named Alice. She was a rescue dog and I adopted her about 4 years ago. Now she is a very precious family member. I have two daughters, the elder one has a child and the younger has a aroma shop in a town near Mr. Fuji. I sometimes visit there with Alice.
    I look forward to hearing from you and working with you to create a special day.
    Regards,
    Motoko

    Sep 21, 2026
    Keith_S
    Wonderful Experience
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful guide, Motoko, who…

    Apr 25, 2026
    catvila
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Primeira vez em Tóquio
    A Motoko foi excelente para nos guiar pelos…

    Apr 22, 2026
    72breannaj
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour highly recommend! And loved our guide
    We had an amazing…

    Apr 17, 2026
    denisemD3032GY
    Tripadvisor review: Kawagoe 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide (Tokyo/Kawagoe dep)
    Tokyo walking tour
    Our guide Motoko was so polite &…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Groove Shinjuku
    • 9:40 Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, Outer Market, Fish Market, Namiyoke Shrine
    • 11:00 Asakusa
    • 12:00 Ueno – Statue of Saigo Takamori, Tomb of the Shogitai, Kiyomizu Kannon-do Temple, Toshogu Shrine
    • 12:50 Lunch @ Hinazushi
    • 14:00 Yanaka Cemetery, Yanaka Ginza
    • 15:10 Dismissal @ Kokkai-gijidomae Station

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Ueno, and Yanaka I guided a group from Europe on a private one-day tour of Tokyo. They had eaten a large breakfast, so they did not eat anything at Tsukiji, but they explored the area with great interest. Fond of flowers and plants, they entered the peony garden at Ueno Toshogu Shrine and were moved by the magnificent blooms. Afterward, they finally became hungry and requested sushi, so we went into a sushi restaurant. Rather than a set menu, they preferred to order individual pieces, and enjoyed a small amount of sushi along with miso soup. Just when I thought they had a light appetite, they immediately bought a crepe (which they called a pancake) right afterward, and we enjoyed it together. At Ueno Station, I helped them issue their Shinkansen tickets to Kanazawa for the following day. They especially liked the quiet, local atmosphere of Yanaka. I accompanied them to the transfer station on the way to their hotel, and the tour came to an end.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinjuku (Tokyo Metro)~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Asakusa290JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Ueno180JPY
    Section 4TrainUeno~Nippori160JPY
    Section 5SubwaySendagi~Kokkai-gijidomae210JPY
    Total1,050JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji & Gion

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji & Gion

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at Seiouro
    • 10:00 Kinkaku-ji
    • 11:20 Arashiyama (Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji, Togetsukyo Bridge)
    • 12:50 Lunch near Kiyomizu-dera
    • 13:30 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 14:45 Gion
    • 15:30 End at Kawaramachi

    What Is a Private Kyoto Family Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. They spoke their native language among themselves. The itinerary progressed smoothly without any traffic. Since the group wished to visit the Nintendo shop in the Takashimaya department store at the end, we concluded the tour in the Kawaramachi area. For lunch, I guided them to a noodle restaurant. As one of the guests preferred not to have pork, they chose beef udon and enjoyed it. The driver was also very cooperative, which was greatly appreciated.

    Hi I am Kunihiro ARAKAWA, National government licensed tour guide.
    Please call me first name Kuni.
    My original city is Nagoya, but I lived in Tokyo for 20 years,
    and also lived in London and Paris for work.
    Now I live in Kyoto city. I moved here because I love Kyoto.
    I like taking photos and also sell my own photos on website.
    I’d love to take memorable photos for you at great photo spots.
    I also like history and gourmet food.
    I’d love to introduce some local recommendations.
    I’ll ask your request and create your special tour.
    Please feel free to let us know your thoughts.
    Looking forward to meeting you !

    Kuni

    Aug 18, 2026
    janetaF288XA
    Wonderful tour filled with history, insights and great photos!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide…

    Jul 18, 2026
    M2443VKandrewl
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Excellent guide and support
    Kuni-san was an excellent guide and…

    Jun 9, 2026
    Gail M
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Kyoto Sights; Private Guide & Driver
    The…

    Jun 5, 2026
    Rick_S
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    An afternoon in Kyoto
    We had a great time exploring Kyoto. Our…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0900 Meet at ANA Holiday Inn Tokyo Bay (3 minutes from Tennozu Isle Station on the Tokyo Monorail)
    • 0930 Tsukiji Outer Market, Kabukiza Theater, Ginza 4-chome Intersection
    • 1050 Asakusa, Azumabashi Bridge, Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine
    • 1245 Return to hotel and disband

    What Can You See on a Half-Day Private Tokyo Tour Before a Cruise? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Although they had been to Japan a long time ago, they said they had almost no memory of it. In recent years they had been enjoying cruise trips around Southeast Asia, and this time their journey brought them to Japan. They had arrived in Japan the previous night. Since they were scheduled to board their cruise ship in the evening and needed to return to their hotel by 1:00 PM, I planned the tour with this in mind. At Tsukiji Market, they were interested but did not sample any food, as they were concerned about jet lag and the meals they would have after boarding the ship. In Asakusa as well, they were interested but did not purchase any souvenirs, since their cruise was about to begin. As we had a little time to spare, I suggested we might stop somewhere else, but they were mindful of their hotel departure time and decided to head back early.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherTennozu Isle~Hamamatsucho230JPY
    Section 2SubwayDaimon (Tokyo)~Tsukijishijo180JPY
    Section 3SubwayGinza~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa~Daimon (Tokyo)220JPY
    Section 5OtherHamamatsucho~Tennozu Isle230JPY
    Total1,070JPY

    I had worked in the international business scene for over 40 years and traveled to North America and European countries over 1000 days.
    After I retired from the business, I traveled to most of the major sightseeing spots in all 47 prefectures in Japan.

    My guide is starting from a brief history of the site where I am going to guide. I usually add a briefing about Japanese culture based on religions, such as Shinto Shrine and Buddhist temples. A geographic background behind the history is also important.
    My course includes 4 to 5 (in 6 hours) sites from the following depending on where I will pick the guests up;
    – Senso ji Temple
    – Kappabashi Kitchenware Market
    – Tokyo Skytree
    – Ueno Park
    – Nezu Shrine
    – Imperial Palace outer park
    – Tokyo Central Station, Marunouchi historic district
    – Tsukiji Fish Market
    – Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    – Ginza
    – Odaiba
    – Hama Rikyu Garden
    – Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
    – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
    – Roppongi
    – Meiji Shrine
    – Harajuku & Takeshita Street
    – Shibuya
    – and Any of your interest.

    I am happy to introduce Japanese Manga/Anime cultures such as Akihabara, Nakano Broadway and Ghibli related sites.
    Travelling along the JR central line where guests can stopover at major animation studios (it is not accepted to visit the inside). The majority of animation studios such as TMS Entertainment, SUNRISE, A1 Pictures etc. are located in this area. Suginami Animation museum, Studio Ghibli and Ghibli Museum are also located.
    Guests can feel old houses in the Spirited Away scene in the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.

    I can also provide a pilgrimage to the sacred place (shooting location) for the Shinkai Makoto animation movies such as Your name, Weathering with you, and Suzume.

    Another interesting feature is to visit authentic Japanese style pub meals such as Yakitori, Karaage, and Sushi etc.
    Asakusa Hoppy Street, Ameyoko Street, Yurakucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku Golden gai, Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho are nice to visit.

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

    In addition to the above, I am available in the neighboring cities.

    Kawagoe is an old town developed in the 17th century. It has very close relationship with the Edo central government. Kawagoe castle ruins, Kitain temple and 500 Buddha statues will welcome the guests.
    These areas are renovated and provide an old days atmosphere.
    Japanese style sweets food stands will fascinate the guests.
    Kawagoe is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    Kamakura is the first Samurai worriers government established in the late 12th century.
    The Buddhism are introduced to Japan in the 6th century, and flourished at Nara and Kyoto later. A newer Buddhism sect such as Zen has well developed at Kamakura area.
    Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Gigantic Buddha statue at Kotokuin Temple and the flower temple Hasedera Temple are must-see.
    Kamakura is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    I am also happy to develop any other site the guests have interest.

    Sep 24, 2026
    Leslie_R
    Good tour on first day
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Ted, our guide was…

    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

    Jun 26, 2026
    ann r
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Educational with kind, generous guide
    My teenage sons and I learned…

    Jun 14, 2026
    141yunb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
    We…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera & Nijo Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Hotel meet up
    • 9:10 Yasaka Pagoda ~ Yasaka Koshindo ~ Sannenzaka ~ Kiyomizu-dera
    • 9:30 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 11:10 Stroll along Gion Hanamikoji Street
    • 11:40 Stroll along Pontocho
    • 11:55 Lunch at Ukiya Pontocho Main Store
    • 13:00 Nijo Castle
    • 14:30 Disband in front of Sanjusangendo

    What Does a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report Today I guided a group of friends visiting from Oceania. They were traveling to many places including Tokyo and Kyoto, and yesterday they had walked part of the Nakasendo from Nagoya in the rain. Today we went first to Kiyomizu-dera, which was expected to be very crowded, and by arriving early we avoided the worst of the crowds, though Sannenzaka was quite busy. After that we strolled through the Gion district and had lunch at a soba restaurant. We then visited Nijo Castle, which was fairly empty, so we were able to take our time and look around comfortably. When we reached Sanjusangen-do, it was time for the tour to end, so I gave a brief explanation before finishing. I believe the guests enjoyed themselves.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKyoto~Kiyomizu-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2SubwaySanjo Keihan~Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijojo-mae~Sanjo Keihan220JPY
    Section 4TrainSanjo (Kyoto Prefecture)~Shichijo180JPY
    Total850JPY

    Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

    Jul 25, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Half-day with private guide in Kyoto
    We spent half a day…

    Jul 24, 2026
    J6711TVnancyb
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Family Fun Day in Kyoto with young children
    Kaeko Tanigawa was fantastic at helping us create…

    Jul 13, 2026
    elizabethtW414DU
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Private Tour
    Kaeko was absolutely amazing from start…

    Jul 12, 2026
    johnkE8649IH
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Kyoto Day Tour
    We had a wonderful experience touring Kyoto…

  • Hokkaido in One Day: Goryokaku Park & back at port

    Hokkaido in One Day: Goryokaku Park & back at port

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 meet at the port
    • 10:15-11:00 Goryokaku Park
    • 11:15-12:15 Mount Hakodate Ropeway
    • 12:15-13:00 Motomachi stroll
    • 13:00-13:45 Lunch
    • 13:45-14:00 Red Brick Warehouse stroll
    • 14:15-15:30 Goryokaku Tower
    • 16:00 arrive back at port

    Title: What Is a Private Cherry Blossom Tour in Hakodate Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who arrived by cruise ship. The cherry blossoms at Goryokaku were in full bloom, and they were truly moved by the sight. In Hakodate, when I explained how apple-pruning techniques from Hirosaki have been applied to carefully cultivate many cherry trees, some of which are over 100 years old, they were very impressed. They were delighted by the magnificent trees, saying they were the finest they had ever seen. Blessed with fine weather, they enjoyed the view from Mount Hakodate and saw many cherry blossoms, and seemed very satisfied. Since Goryokaku Tower was crowded in the morning, we saved it for the afternoon, and luckily we were able to go up without any wait, which pleased them greatly.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSuehirocho (Hokkaido)~Uoichiba-dori250JPY
    Total250JPY

    National Government Licensed Guide-Interpreter | 20+ Years of Expertise
    Hello, my name is Noriko.
    As a veteran guide covering all of Japan for 20 years, I specialize in creating seamless, high-quality travel experiences.
    While I offer nationwide coverage, I have a profound passion for Hokkaido.
    Hokkaido is a land of incredible contrast—spacious, serene, and strikingly beautiful. I pride myself on introducing travelers not only to its magnificent scenery but also to its culinary excellence. Whether it’s navigating the rich history of our northern cities or savoring the finest local delicacies, I ensure my guests experience the very best of what Japan’s northern star has to offer. Guiding in Hokkaido is not just my job; it is my greatest joy.
    I am so happy to guide my most favorite place to the guests. I am looking forward to meeting you!!

    Apr 25, 2026
    Josh_K
    Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Hakodate Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Cherry blossoms!
    Our guide Noriko was just TERRIFIC!!! She helped…

    Apr 23, 2026
    James_B
    Viator review: Hakodate 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fun day in Hakodate
    It was customized to exactly what we wanted…

  • Mie in Half a Day: Geku & Naiku

    Mie in Half a Day: Geku & Naiku

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 – 09:45 Travel from Ise-shi Station to Geku
    • 09:45 – 11:00 Visit Geku
    • 11:00 – 12:00 Tour Sengukan Museum
    • 12:00 – 12:30 Travel to Naiku
    • 12:30 – 14:00 Lunch
    • 14:00 – 15:30 Visit Naiku

    What Is a Private Guided Tour of Ise Jingu Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. This was a trip to offer various experiences to mark a milestone, and it included a visit to Ise Jingu, a shrine the guests had wished to visit for many years. I provided careful explanations about the various areas within Ise Jingu, and I believe I was able to help them deepen their understanding. At the Sengukan Museum, they were able to see up close things that cannot normally be viewed, such as the main sanctuary structures, the timber, and the construction methods, and I believe they came to understand the significance and details of the Shikinen Sengu ritual.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusIse-shi~Geku-mae / Mie Kotsu200JPY
    Section 2BusGeku-mae / Mie Kotsu~Naiku-mae / Mie Kotsu520JPY
    Total720JPY

    Hi, I am your guide Henry. Henry Kurata
    I have experience of visiting more than 40 different countries in the world and stayed in USA and UK more than total of 10 years as for expats of Automotive components manufacturer. Since I have decent knowledge about Japanese culture and history. I am pretty much for sure I can be your assistant wherever you go, whatever your interest is. I would help you to have unforgettable experience either in popular place or off the beaten track throughout in Japan.
    If you care about flowering cherry in Japan, I am right person you can trust since I am an enthusiast on researching and watching many different species throughout in Japan. I hope I can meet you in Japan in near future.
    Your wish for wonder is my command.
    Thank you very much!

    Jun 23, 2026
    Andrew_M
    Viator review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Henry is a wonderful guide
    We had a fantastic…

    May 6, 2026
    albypoo
    Tripadvisor review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Unforgettable day at Ise Jingu with Henry
    We were…

    May 6, 2026
    s0ranet
    Tripadvisor review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    充実したツアーでありがとうございました!
    GW期間中で他のツアーがすべて満席だったため、こちらからプライベートガイドを申し込みました。予約サイトから英語のメールが届き、ガイドの倉田さんと直接やり取りをして進める流れでした。

    プライベートツアーを利用するのは初めてだったのですが、ガイドの倉田さんが本当に「神対応」でした!GWの混雑などで私たちが2時間も遅刻してしまったのですが、スケジュールを柔軟に調整してくださり、とても親切に迎えてくださいました。

    伊勢神宮の外宮から内宮をご案内いただいたのですが、知識が大変豊富で、こちらの質問にも的確に答えてくださり、とても充実した時間を過ごすことができました。ユーモアたっぷりでウィットに富んだ素晴らしいお人柄なので、一緒にお話ししていて本当に楽しいです!

    日本語と英語の両方でご対応いただけるそうなので、このサイトを利用する海外の旅行者の方にも強くおすすめします。今回このツアーに申し込んで大正解でした。最高の旅行の思い出をありがとうございました。

    May 1, 2026
    J1543OM_
    Tripadvisor review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    初お伊勢さん
    本日は大変貴重なお時間をいただきありがとうございました。とてもわかりやすい倉田さんのガイドで4時間とても充実した時間を過ごさせていたきました。はじめての伊勢神宮をとても満喫できました。また何かの機会があったら、倉田さんよろしくお願いします。

  • Mie in Half a Day: Geku worship & Naiku worship

    Mie in Half a Day: Geku worship & Naiku worship

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:15 – 08:30 Travel from Ise-shi Station to Geku
    • 08:30 – 09:30 Geku worship
    • 09:30 – 10:15 Visit Sengukan
    • 10:15 – 10:45 Travel to Naiku
    • 10:45 – 12:15 Naiku worship

    What Is a Private Ise Jingu Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan. Some of the guests showed a strong interest in Ise Jingu and had studied about it in advance, so I gave a careful explanation of the origins and history of the shrine. On the day of the tour, preparations for the "Mokuzo Hajime Sai" ceremony (held on the 21st) had begun, and I explained the purpose and significance of the Shikinen Sengu (the periodic rebuilding of the shrine) in response to the guests' questions. The weather was fine, and the sacred grounds of the shrine and the surrounding mountains were beautiful with fresh green foliage, so I believe the guests were able to fully enjoy the atmosphere of Ise Jingu. At the Sengukan museum, they were able to see a full-scale model of the main sanctuary, which I believe helped deepen their understanding of the shrine.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusIse-shi~Geku-mae/Mie Kotsu200JPY
    Section 2BusGeku-mae/Mie Kotsu~Naiku-mae/Mie Kotsu520JPY
    Total720JPY

    Hi, I am your guide Henry. Henry Kurata
    I have experience of visiting more than 40 different countries in the world and stayed in USA and UK more than total of 10 years as for expats of Automotive components manufacturer. Since I have decent knowledge about Japanese culture and history. I am pretty much for sure I can be your assistant wherever you go, whatever your interest is. I would help you to have unforgettable experience either in popular place or off the beaten track throughout in Japan.
    If you care about flowering cherry in Japan, I am right person you can trust since I am an enthusiast on researching and watching many different species throughout in Japan. I hope I can meet you in Japan in near future.
    Your wish for wonder is my command.
    Thank you very much!

    Jun 23, 2026
    Andrew_M
    Viator review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Henry is a wonderful guide
    We had a fantastic…

    May 6, 2026
    albypoo
    Tripadvisor review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Unforgettable day at Ise Jingu with Henry
    We were…

    May 6, 2026
    s0ranet
    Tripadvisor review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    充実したツアーでありがとうございました!
    GW期間中で他のツアーがすべて満席だったため、こちらからプライベートガイドを申し込みました。予約サイトから英語のメールが届き、ガイドの倉田さんと直接やり取りをして進める流れでした。

    プライベートツアーを利用するのは初めてだったのですが、ガイドの倉田さんが本当に「神対応」でした!GWの混雑などで私たちが2時間も遅刻してしまったのですが、スケジュールを柔軟に調整してくださり、とても親切に迎えてくださいました。

    伊勢神宮の外宮から内宮をご案内いただいたのですが、知識が大変豊富で、こちらの質問にも的確に答えてくださり、とても充実した時間を過ごすことができました。ユーモアたっぷりでウィットに富んだ素晴らしいお人柄なので、一緒にお話ししていて本当に楽しいです!

    日本語と英語の両方でご対応いただけるそうなので、このサイトを利用する海外の旅行者の方にも強くおすすめします。今回このツアーに申し込んで大正解でした。最高の旅行の思い出をありがとうございました。

    May 1, 2026
    J1543OM_
    Tripadvisor review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    初お伊勢さん
    本日は大変貴重なお時間をいただきありがとうございました。とてもわかりやすい倉田さんのガイドで4時間とても充実した時間を過ごさせていたきました。はじめての伊勢神宮をとても満喫できました。また何かの機会があったら、倉田さんよろしくお願いします。

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Meeting point: Osaka Tempozan (Cruise Ship Terminal)
    • 13:15 Travel to Osaka Castle by subway
    • 13:50 Sightseeing ①: Tour of "Osaka Castle"
    • 15:00 Travel to Kuromon Market by subway
    • 15:20 Sightseeing ②: Stroll and tour of "Kuromon Market"
    • 16:00 Walk to Dotonbori
    • 16:10 Sightseeing ③: Stroll and tour of "Dotonbori"
    • 16:50 Travel to "Dobutsuen-mae" by subway (starting point of another tour)
    • 17:00 End of guided tour and dismissal

    What's a Rainy-Day Private Osaka Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Kuromon Market, and Dotonbori The guests this time were a group who came to Japan from Europe and were sightseeing while traveling on a cruise ship. Prior consultations, such as deciding which places to visit, were handled through one of the guests. The assignment had been decided more than a year in advance, but there was no contact until this April, which made me a little concerned. However, when I reached out again, I received a prompt reply, and their desired destinations were clear — "Osaka Castle → Kuromon Market → Dotonbori" — so we confirmed those three places as a four-hour course from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Unfortunately, the forecast for the day called for steady rain throughout, and it turned out to be exactly that — the worst possible conditions. We met at the building of the cruise ship terminal in Tempozan, exchanged brief greetings, and discussed the itinerary. I asked everyone once more for their thoughts, saying, "As forecast, it will rain steadily the whole time. Osaka Castle and Kuromon Market have roofs, so there is no problem sightseeing there, but walking between the destinations and touring Dotonbori will require umbrellas, so it will be sightseeing under very poor conditions. We could change to places unaffected by rain, such as an aquarium or a museum — what would you like to do?" The guests replied in unison that they wanted to sightsee as planned, so we set out using umbrellas and raincoats. Because I wanted to keep both hands free, I wore a raincoat the entire time, while the guests used plastic umbrellas. Since we used the subway for all transportation, we managed to stay dry for most of the travel, but the walks from the starting point to Osaka Castle, from Osaka Castle to the subway station, and from the subway station to Kuromon Market and Dotonbori were, without exaggeration, made in a downpour. Sightseeing at each location was fine inside buildings and in covered arcades, but only the main street of Dotonbori had to be toured in the rain. Even under these worst-case conditions, the guests listened well to my explanations, asked questions, and seemed to enjoy themselves. Usually in cases like this the schedule tends to fall behind, but this time we completed almost the entire itinerary as planned and were able to finish right on time at 5:00. (As for photos, I received consent to publish them, but due to the rain it was difficult to take pictures outdoors, so there was only a single snapshot taken at the covered Kuromon Market.)

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOsaka Port~Tanimachi 4-chome290JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Nippombashi (Osaka)190JPY
    Section 3SubwayNippombashi (Osaka)~Dobutsuen-mae190JPY
    Total670JPY

    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.

    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
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    We saw so much in the…
    We saw so much in the…

    Mar 24, 2026
    zackn719
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    Knowledgeable guide and a great tour
    We did our private tour with…

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    66speech
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    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience with Nori. Nori exceeded our expectations with…

  • Mie in Half a Day: Naiku & Mikimoto Pearl Island

    Mie in Half a Day: Naiku & Mikimoto Pearl Island

    Tour Itinerary

    • 07:00-07:20 Travel from hotel to Naiku
    • 07:20-09:00 Visit Naiku
    • 09:00-10:00 Tour Sengukan Museum
    • 10:00-10:30 Travel to Naiku
    • 10:30-12:00 Visit Naiku
    • 12:00-13:30 Lunch (Oharai-machi)
    • 13:30-14:30 Travel from Naiku to Toba
    • 14:30-15:30 Mikimoto Pearl Island
    • 15:30-16:00 Travel from Toba to Iseshi Station

    What Is a Private Ise Jingu and Mikimoto Pearl Island Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Due to the rain, we moved the start time earlier, which allowed the guests to observe the morning Higoto Asayu Omike ritual at the Outer Shrine (Geku) from 07:50 to 08:20, and they were very pleased. In addition to the main sanctuary within the Outer Shrine, the guests also visited the auxiliary shrines and smaller affiliated shrines. At the Sengukan Museum, they gained a deeper understanding of the Shikinen Sengu (the periodic rebuilding of the shrine) and of Jingu itself. At the Inner Shrine (Naiku), the guests worshipped at all the shrines within the sacred precinct, and I explained the origins of Jingu and the reasons why the Shikinen Sengu is carried out, responding to the guests' questions along the way. In the afternoon, as there was interest in the ama (traditional female divers), I guided the guests to Mikimoto Pearl Island. Although the rain limited our movements, I took care to ensure that the guests could spend the day comfortably.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusIseshi Station / Mie Kotsu~Geku-mae / Mie Kotsu200JPY
    Section 2BusGeku-mae / Mie Kotsu~Naiku-mae / Mie Kotsu520JPY
    Section 3BusNaiku-mae / Mie Kotsu~Isuzugawa Station / Mie Kotsu300JPY
    Section 4TrainIsuzugawa~Toba360JPY
    Section 5TrainToba~Iseshi390JPY
    Total1,770JPY

    Hi, I am your guide Henry. Henry Kurata
    I have experience of visiting more than 40 different countries in the world and stayed in USA and UK more than total of 10 years as for expats of Automotive components manufacturer. Since I have decent knowledge about Japanese culture and history. I am pretty much for sure I can be your assistant wherever you go, whatever your interest is. I would help you to have unforgettable experience either in popular place or off the beaten track throughout in Japan.
    If you care about flowering cherry in Japan, I am right person you can trust since I am an enthusiast on researching and watching many different species throughout in Japan. I hope I can meet you in Japan in near future.
    Your wish for wonder is my command.
    Thank you very much!

    Jun 23, 2026
    Andrew_M
    Viator review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Henry is a wonderful guide
    We had a fantastic…

    May 6, 2026
    albypoo
    Tripadvisor review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Unforgettable day at Ise Jingu with Henry
    We were…

    May 6, 2026
    s0ranet
    Tripadvisor review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    充実したツアーでありがとうございました!
    GW期間中で他のツアーがすべて満席だったため、こちらからプライベートガイドを申し込みました。予約サイトから英語のメールが届き、ガイドの倉田さんと直接やり取りをして進める流れでした。

    プライベートツアーを利用するのは初めてだったのですが、ガイドの倉田さんが本当に「神対応」でした!GWの混雑などで私たちが2時間も遅刻してしまったのですが、スケジュールを柔軟に調整してくださり、とても親切に迎えてくださいました。

    伊勢神宮の外宮から内宮をご案内いただいたのですが、知識が大変豊富で、こちらの質問にも的確に答えてくださり、とても充実した時間を過ごすことができました。ユーモアたっぷりでウィットに富んだ素晴らしいお人柄なので、一緒にお話ししていて本当に楽しいです!

    日本語と英語の両方でご対応いただけるそうなので、このサイトを利用する海外の旅行者の方にも強くおすすめします。今回このツアーに申し込んで大正解でした。最高の旅行の思い出をありがとうございました。

    May 1, 2026
    J1543OM_
    Tripadvisor review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    初お伊勢さん
    本日は大変貴重なお時間をいただきありがとうございました。とてもわかりやすい倉田さんのガイドで4時間とても充実した時間を過ごさせていたきました。はじめての伊勢神宮をとても満喫できました。また何かの機会があったら、倉田さんよろしくお願いします。