Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Guided tour of Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Guided tour of Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00-9:20 Strolling through Tsukiji Outer Market, visiting shrines
    • 9:20-9:40 Guided tour of Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple
    • 10:00-10:20 Guided tour of Akihabara
    • 10:40-11:25 Strolling through Asakusa, guided tour of Senso-ji Temple and Asakusa Shrine, cherry blossom viewing along the Sumida River
    • 11:35-12:00 Guided tour of Nihonbashi

    What's a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, and Nihonbashi The guests were visitors from Oceania who had previously been to Japan four years earlier. We met at Tsukiji Station at 8:00 in the morning, and they arrived right on time. Since they had not eaten breakfast, we enjoyed a variety of foods at the Tsukiji Outer Market. They listened with great interest to my explanations about the fish and the dishes. One of the guests had lost their glasses and asked me to help find an optician, so we got off at Akihabara to look, but could not find one. In the end, we headed to Asakusa, found an optician, and purchased a new pair. They showed interest in my explanations of Senso-ji Temple and Asakusa Shrine. One of the guests wanted to try a sake tasting, so we visited a shop I know in Nihonbashi, sampled several kinds of sake, and they purchased some Japanese sake to take with them. They were very satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTsukiji~Akihabara180JPY
    Section 2TrainAkihabara~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa~Nihonbashi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Total540JPY

    I am certified as a Top Guide by the JGA.
    Drawing on my past experience as a guide, where I have consistently received positive feedback from guests, I will focus on the following key points in my guiding:
    Explain the historical transition from Edo to Tokyo through engaging episodes and stories.
    Offer a cross-cultural perspective on why concepts such as honji suijaku (the idea of local deities being manifestations of Buddhist figures), as seen at places like Meiji Shrine, represent a worldview that Japan can be proud of.
    Provide warm and humorous interaction, incorporating the spirit of hospitality I learned while studying at Columbia University in the United States.
    Use my experience working at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government to explain Tokyo’s present-day situation with the support of statistical data.

    Jul 7, 2026
    Ruppa_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great guide and first experience in Tokyo
    It was our first time…

    Jun 8, 2026
    TAMARA_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience!
    Great experience, learning a lot. Get to see a lots…

    May 7, 2026
    Marianela25
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great customized Itinerary with Mitch!
    Mitch was a fantastic tour guide. He…

    Apr 29, 2026
    163neilh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Asakusa Sensouji Temple, Imperial Palace & Meiji Shrine.
    We had a fantastic…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel Pickup 12:00
    • Lunch @ Asakusa 12:15-13:15
    • Nezu Shrine 14:15
    • Akihabara 15:00
    • Imperial Palace 15:30

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Nezu Shrine, Akihabara, and the Imperial Palace Lunch at Asakusa: I reserved a lunch of wagyu yakiniku. Along with the grilled beef, the beef stew also seemed novel to the guests, and they enjoyed it very much. Nezu Shrine: Compared to Asakusa, it was not too crowded, and the guests were very relaxed watching the turtles and koi in the stream within the grounds. They did not formally pray but enjoyed the atmosphere. The mild weather made it easy to walk around. Akihabara: The guests seemed overwhelmed by the enormous crowds. They said it was like Times Square, but it was hard to move around, so we did not stay long. Imperial Palace: Since there were no particular requests, I took them to Nijubashi. They had already done quite a bit of walking, so I thought something simpler than the East Gardens would be better. The guests had only arrived the day before and I imagine they were still tired, but they said they did not need any breaks, and they were energetic and very pleasant. It was their first time visiting Japan, and they had requested a guide because they wanted to learn about customs and such. Rather than the detailed origins and history of each place, they seemed to enjoy the atmosphere.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainJimbocho~Asakusa220JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa~Ueno-hirokoji180JPY
    Section 3TrainYushima~Nezu180JPY
    Section 4TrainNezu~Akihabara Station (Highway/Connecting Bus)380JPY
    Section 5TrainAkihabara~Tokyo160JPY
    Section 6TrainOtemachi (Tokyo)~Jimbocho180JPY
    Total1,300JPY

    Hello and welcome to Tokyo! My name is Risa, a licensed tour guide and professional marketer in the sports industry.
    My background is rooted in a global perspective—I studied abroad in San Diego and earned my MBA in Barcelona in a multicultural environment. Having traveled to over 35 countries (and speaking some Spanish!), I understand the excitement of discovering a new culture. This experience inspired me to become a guide and bridge the gap between Japan and the world.

    In my daily life, I work in the sports industry as a marketer and specialize in creating memorable experiences. Instead of just visiting famous landmarks, I love showing you the “real” Tokyo—the local neighborhoods, coool Japanese fashion, authentic food culture, and the everyday life that locals truly enjoy. My goal is to make you feel like you are exploring the city with a knowledgeable local friend.
    I am friendly, relaxed, and curious about people from all backgrounds. Whether it’s your first time in Japan or you’re a frequent visitor, I’m here to help you discover Tokyo in a meaningful, personal way.
    I look forward to meeting you and being a part of your Japan story!

    Apr 9, 2026
    Samantha_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Risa, was…
    Our guide, Risa, was absolutely amazing! She customized…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Hotel Kaminarimon by Hulic
    • 2. 9:00 Asakusa (including Senso-ji Temple and Asakusa Shrine)
    • 3. 10:15 Ueno Park
    • 4. 11:40 Imperial Palace Outer Garden・East Gardens
    • 5. 13:00 Dismissal Otemon Gate

    What Does a Private Cherry Blossom Walking Tour of Asakusa, Ueno, and the Imperial Palace in Tokyo Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report We were able to meet slightly earlier than the scheduled time and set off on foot. At Azuma Bridge we took in views of the Tokyo Skytree, the Asahi Beer building, and other landmarks, though the cherry blossoms were only about half in bloom. We strolled through Asakusa, which was still relatively uncrowded, while I explained the sights. The weeping cherry tree just before the Hozomon Gate was in full bloom, and the guests took photos. While I was explaining omikuji fortunes and omamori charms, the guests mentioned that a new grandchild would soon be born and said they would later buy a charm for a safe delivery. We visited the main hall and Asakusa Shrine, then took the Ginza Line to Ueno. In Ueno the cherry blossoms were close to full bloom, and we walked along the main avenue (since it was morning, the crowds were not yet severe). I explained Toshogu Shrine, the stone monument to General Grant, and the National Museum of Western Art, then went from JR Ueno Station to Tokyo Station. We exited the Marunouchi Central Gate, went straight ahead, and proceeded to the baggage and security check for the Inui Street passageway. As it was a Saturday, I had somewhat anticipated a wait, but the wait was minimal and we entered Inui Street smoothly. The guests happily took photos of the cherry blossoms. After that we entered the East Gardens, enjoyed the view from the top of the former castle keep foundation, admired the cherry blossoms in various spots, and the guests were delighted to take photos here and there in the Ninomaru Garden as well. We concluded the tour at the Otemon Gate, and I recommended visiting Meiji Shrine and explained how to get there, walking with the guests to the ticket gate of Otemachi Station on the Chiyoda Line before parting ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa~Ueno180JPY
    Section 2TrainUeno~Tokyo200JPY
    Total380JPY

    Hello, I’m Masaaki Kurata. I have been conducting walking tours in Asakusa, Ueno, Yanaka and the East Garden of Imperial Palace since I joined an English guide volunteer club in 2016. I worked for 2 U.S. based companies in Tokyo for 41 years and retired in 2023. I developed good communication skills with people from other countries in my long career in those 2 companies. I was born in the suburb of Tokyo and I’m familiar with Tokyo pretty much. Since I retired and do not work for a company any longer, I can be flexible in making itineraries. I really want to make tourists happy by making fun and interesting communication.

    Jun 5, 2026
    Flyer544764
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Extraordinary submersion into Japanese history and culture~
    What an extraordinary 6 hr…

    Apr 27, 2026
    Eric_K
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mac was a very good tour…
    Mac was a very good tour…

    Apr 23, 2026
    O4598GUpatriciat
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Exceptional Private Guide – Discovering the Hidden Side of Tokyo
    We had…

    Apr 2, 2026
    V742WEsusans
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Highly recommended tour
    Excellent friendly guidance from Mac. He greeted us at…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①9:00〜11:00 Take a taxi from the hotel to the Imperial Palace. After viewing Nijubashi Bridge, walk from Sakashita Gate to Inui Gate. Head to Kudanshita Subway Station via Kitanomaru Park.
    • ②11:00〜12:30 Strolling around Kagurazaka
    • ③12:30〜13:50 Lunch at Kagurazaka Royal Host
    • ④13:50〜15:00 Take a taxi to Nezu Shrine. After the visit, walk through Nezu, Sendagi, and Yanaka. Disband upon arriving at Yanaka Ginza right at 15:00.

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Central Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Kagurazaka, Nezu, and Yanaka The guests were a group visiting Japan from Africa for sightseeing in central Tokyo. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) arranged this private tour, which efficiently covered the requested destinations of the Imperial Palace, Kagurazaka, Nezu, and Yanaka, using taxis where convenient. On this day there happened to be a special spring opening of the Inui Street at the Imperial Palace, so the group enjoyed strolling through it with great interest. They were delighted to see the weeping cherry trees in full bloom. In Kagurazaka, I guided them through areas such as Hyogo Yokocho and Honda Yokocho. The guests spent a very enjoyable time throughout the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKudanshita~Kagurazaka180JPY
    Total180JPY

    Hello! I am Osamu Kitagawa , National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter(English). Please call me SAM.
    I love Japanese culture, history, and visiting historical places, scenic spots, and fashionable spots as well. I can guide you all over Japan as I have ever visited all prefectures in Japan. I have a global experience in international banking business including residing in Hong Kong and Jakarta. So I’m able to have daily conversations in Indonesian language, too. I’m looking forward to seeing you soon!

    Certification
    Certified Travel Services Manager
    Authorized Tour Conductor
    Kyoto Expert Certification

    Jul 23, 2026
    svendulrikr
    Tripadvisor review: Nara Day Trip from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide
    Best of Nara
    Amazing trip to Nara with the most…

    Jul 10, 2026
    valerianos862
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Private tour of Tokyo.
    Our guide Sam is very…

    Jun 20, 2026
    Sarah B
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learned how to ride the trains and we went to…

    Apr 14, 2026
    MDMallory
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama and Kamakura 6hr Private Trip Government-Licensed Guide
    The Natural Beauty of Kamakura
    Our guide, Sam, was very knowledgeable…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet up at the hotel
    • 09:30 Stroll through the Imperial Palace Inui Street cherry blossom path
    • 11:00 Goma prayer ritual at Fukagawa Fudoson Temple
    • 12:00 Lunch and shopping at Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 13:30 Explore Asakusa
    • 15:00 See off at Tameike-Sanno and disband

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Fukagawa, Tsukiji, and Asakusa Body: 1. The tour and the guests' reactions The guests were a group from North America who had arrived in Japan the previous night. They had initially requested a 10:30 start, but when I let them know in advance that the cherry blossom walkway through the Imperial Palace grounds would be open only this week, they kindly changed the start time to 9:00 to adjust the tour plan. Thanks to this, the guests were able to enjoy the cherry blossoms along the path from Sakashita Gate to Inui Gate inside the Imperial Palace, and they were very pleased. At Fukagawa Fudo-do, they were amazed by the power of the goma fire ritual and were delighted, saying it was very memorable. At Tsukiji, we had lunch at a standing sushi restaurant I know well. When one of the guests requested that the chef make four pieces each of tuna gunkan separately with medium-fatty tuna and lean tuna, the head chef happily obliged, and the guests were very satisfied. At Asakusa, the crowds became tiring, so we decided to wrap up a little early. 2. Other impressions, notes, and requests The Imperial Palace walkway was open only for a limited nine-day period, so it worked out well that our schedule matched. The areas inside the Imperial Palace grounds that cannot usually be seen, and the East Gardens viewed from the inside, were especially impressive. For future reference, I would like to share that at the security check, visitors need to take a sip of their drink to prove it is not an explosive. Also, if you carry bladed items in your bag—such as after purchasing a Japanese kitchen knife—entry may be refused.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKokkai-gijidomae~Nijubashimae180JPY
    Section 2TrainTakebashi~Monzen-nakacho180JPY
    Section 3TrainMonzen-nakacho~Tsukijishijo180JPY
    Section 4TrainTsukiji~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 5TrainAsakusa~Tameike-Sanno210JPY
    Total960JPY

    Hello, I am Toru, a certified National Guide. I have been guiding since 2017, primarily in the Tokyo area, which includes Hakone, Kamakura, and Yokohama. To make your stay in Japan unforgettable, I always discuss a tour plan with my guests via email before their arrival. Please share your preferences, including the places you’d like to visit and the experiences you’d like to try during your stay in Tokyo. If this is your first visit to Japan, I’m excited to help make your time in Tokyo even more enjoyable by suggesting sample itineraries and offering travel tips.

    For more information about me, please visit my profile site.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/hello-welcome-to-japan/
    For your reference, please feel free to visit my blog, which features popular sightseeing spots and interesting experiences.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/

    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    July 2, 2026
    David S
    Tripadvisor : Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Incredible experience at the Markets!
    Toru…

    Jun 6, 2026
    meltemg957
    Unique experience with a highly knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

    Jun 4, 2026
    bluejerky1
    Turo was knowledgeable and the tour was fun and fun and informative. Highly recommend.
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction…

    May 29, 2026
    Eva P
    Fabulous experience with Toru!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Toru was…

  • Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour

    Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Before leaving the hotel, we had a brief meeting about the day's itinerary. In Ueno Park, we saw the cherry blossom festival, Toshogu Shrine, and Shinobazu Pond, then had a meal and toured Ameyoko. After that, we moved to Asakusa, saw the observation deck of the tourist information center, Sensoji Temple, and the surrounding shops, then took the train to Tokyo Skytree. After entering the observation deck at 4:00 PM, we took the train back to Yokohama, and from there put you in a taxi to return to the hotel on your own. 9:30 gather at InterContinental, 10:30 Ueno (cherry blossom festival, Shinobazu Pond, Toshogu Shrine, lunch), 12:30 Ameyoko, 14:00 Asakusa (Sensoji Temple), 15:30 Skytree, 17:30 disband at Yokohama Station (to the hotel by taxi)

    Title: What Is a Private 8-Hour Tokyo Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of four visiting Japan for the first time from North America and Oceania. They seemed to be travel companions who had journeyed through various countries together in the past, but since their walking paces differed within the group, I took care to adjust the schedule accordingly. All of them were visiting Japan for the first time, having arrived the previous evening, so the tour day was their first day of sightseeing. As they had many places they wanted to see, they had chosen an 8-hour tour, but lack of sleep due to jet lag took its toll, and one of the guests became tired around Asakusa. At Skytree, we withdrew shortly after entering, and since they wished to return by taxi from Yokohama, I saw them off there. Before the fatigue set in, they were able to enjoy the cherry blossom festival and antique market in Ueno, as well as a lunch of wagyu beef and Japanese sake.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMinato Mirai~Ueno820JPY
    Section 2TrainUeno Hirokoji~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa~Oshiage180JPY
    Section 4TrainOshiage~Yokohama630JPY
    Total1,810JPY

    Hi! I’m Akiho. I live in a small seaside town about an hour from Tokyo. I moved here from Tokyo about 10 years ago because I wanted to raise my children in a quiet, nature-rich environment. I love exploring local shopping streets and hidden shrines around Tokyo and Kanagawa, so I especially enjoy introducing small, family-run food shops and local traditions.
    I specialize in planning tours based on what my guests want to see or buy. If there’s anything special you’re interested in, please feel free to let me know! My daughters are teenagers now, so I’m also pretty familiar with the latest trendy shops and fun spots in Tokyo.

    Mar 26, 2026
    Uberais
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Great Introduction to Tokyo
    This is a super tour since it…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Left the hotel and headed to Harajuku. At 11:30, after visiting Meiji Shrine, we looked at the entrance of Takeshita Street and then went toward Omotesando. At 12:30, we strolled along Cat Street to Shibuya, and at 13:30 we saw Hachiko and the Scramble Crossing. After that, we took the train to Nippori and from 14:00 to 14:45 we peeked into Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street, then I saw you off to Shimbashi Station and finished at the ticket gate.

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Harajuku, Omotesando, and Yanaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Although it rained that day, we started fully prepared with raincoats on. The guests were visiting Japan from Europe on an extended holiday. They were on the seventh day of their stay in Japan, and were planning a grand journey westward using flights and the Shinkansen, traveling all the way from Okinawa to Hokkaido. As we walked through Harajuku and Shibuya, I shared information about Japanese trends and brands popular among international visitors, offering suggestions on what might be worth buying during the rest of their trip. Since the guests preferred the tranquility of Meiji Shrine, we kept our time on Takeshita Street to a minimum and focused mainly on the back streets and Cat Street. At the final stop in Yanaka, the guests purchased a vintage kimono as a memento.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShimbashi~Harajuku260JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya~Nippori260JPY
    Section 3TrainNippori~Shimbashi210JPY
    Total730JPY

    Hi! I’m Akiho. I live in a small seaside town about an hour from Tokyo. I moved here from Tokyo about 10 years ago because I wanted to raise my children in a quiet, nature-rich environment. I love exploring local shopping streets and hidden shrines around Tokyo and Kanagawa, so I especially enjoy introducing small, family-run food shops and local traditions.
    I specialize in planning tours based on what my guests want to see or buy. If there’s anything special you’re interested in, please feel free to let me know! My daughters are teenagers now, so I’m also pretty familiar with the latest trendy shops and fun spots in Tokyo.

    Mar 26, 2026
    Uberais
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Great Introduction to Tokyo
    This is a super tour since it…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • • 8:00 AM: Pickup at Weekenders Coffee Tominokoji
    • • 8:30 AM–9:40 AM: Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • • 10:00 AM–11:15 AM: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • • 12:00 PM–12:50 PM: Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • ・1:10 PM–1:40 PM: Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • • 2:00 PM: Dismissal at Hikiniku to Kome (Kyoto)

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kiyomizu-dera, Fushimi Inari, and Kinkaku-ji The guests were a group visiting from North America and the Middle East. Blessed with fine weather, it turned out to be a wonderful trip. First, we visited Kiyomizu-dera Temple. They were amazed by the story that the main hall was donated by Tokugawa Iemitsu in 1633, and that 234 people had jumped from the Kiyomizu stage, of whom 200 survived. They were moved by the view from the observation deck. Second, we went to Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. The guests were very energetic and walked all the way up to the Yotsutsuji observation point, enjoying the scenery. Next was Kinkaku-ji. They were especially impressed by the golden shimmer of Kinkaku-ji and took many photos. They purchased a number of items at the souvenir shop. Finally, since we had some time left, we visited the Kyoto Imperial Palace. The cherry blossoms were in full bloom, and the guests seemed delighted.

    I have been an English teacher since 1979. In 2024, I obtained the national qualification of Certified Guide Interpreter.
    Currently, after retiring, I teach English as a part-time lecturer at a Hyogo Prefectural High School.
    My hobbies are tennis, table tennis, traveling, studying English, and Japanese history.
    I play tennis and table tennis twice a week. I love traveling because I can see beautiful scenery and learn about Japanese history.
    I chose Kyoto and Nara prefectures as my guiding locations. Both were once the capitals of Japan.
    Kyoto was the residence of emperors from 794 to 1868 and was a stage for Japanese history.
    It has beautiful scenery, Japanese history, magnificent buildings and gardens, and delicious food.
    I would like to share the charms of Japan with foreign tourists as much as possible.
    I live in Amagasaki City, which is adjacent to Osaka. Kyoto is a little far from my home,
    but I would like to leave home early in the morning and enjoy traveling with my guests.
    Thank you for your consideration.

    Mar 30, 2026
    MrJames_L
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Great tour with Kaji
    We had an excellent…

    Jul 3, 2025
    Radit T
    Worthwhile private tour on our first full day in Kyoto!
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle…

    Jun 7, 2025
    Lisa_H
    Great tour guide and driver
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Overall a great…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1)8:30    Meet (hotel), then go to Ginkaku-ji by subway and bus
    • 2)9:10~9:50 Ginkaku-ji, then to the Philosopher's Path and Honen-in
    • 3)10:00~10:40 Philosopher's Path, Honen-in, then to Nanzen-ji
    • 4)11:00~11:40 Nanzen-ji・Suirokaku, then to Sanjo by subway
    • 5)12:00~12:40 Lunch near Sanjo Station, then to Nijo Castle by subway
    • 6)13:00~14:15 Nijo Castle, then to the hotel by subway
    • 7)14:40    Farewell in front of the hotel

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Cherry Blossom Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were from the Middle East and were visiting Japan for the first time. Based on the guests' request beforehand for spots that would not be too crowded, I set a course covering Ginkaku-ji, the Philosopher's Path, Honen-in, Nanzen-ji, and finally Nijo Castle. After touring Ginkaku-ji, they enjoyed some shopping at the shops. This year the cherry blossoms bloomed early, and the blossoms along the Philosopher's Path were already open, which delighted them. They climbed the Sanmon gate at Nanzen-ji and enjoyed the view. The guests followed a vegetarian diet but said they eat cooked fish, so for lunch I guided them to a restaurant serving nishin soba (herring soba), which they finished completely, saying it was delicious. I chose a different dish, and they treated me to lunch. Since the guests seemed interested in Japanese food, in return I had them try strawberry daifuku, which they said was delicious. They remarked that the wall paintings of the Ninomaru Palace in the two gardens of Nijo Castle were beautiful. In the garden they were also able to see cherry blossoms in near-full bloom, which pleased them. We finished touring Nijo Castle at around 14:10, and when I asked what they would like to do next, they said they wanted to return to the Hotel, so I accompanied them to the Hotel and said goodbye there. On the day, we were blessed with clear weather, it was not too crowded, and cherry blossoms could be seen in many places, so it seems they enjoyed themselves.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGojo (Kyoto Municipal)~Imadegawa260JPY
    Section 2BusKarasuma Imadegawa (Subway Imadegawa Station)/Kyoto City Bus~Ginkaku-ji-michi/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3SubwayKeage~Sanjo Keihan220JPY
    Section 4SubwaySanjo Keihan~Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 5SubwayNijojo-mae~Gojo (Kyoto Municipal)220JPY
    Total1,150JPY

    Nice to meet you.
    My name is Hiroki Muramoto, please call me Hiro.
    Hiro in Japanese means large or big. Although I’m neither large nor big, you can call me Hiro. How are you doing ?
    I lived in a city nearby Kobe city. Do you know Kobe ? Kobe is famous for Kobe beef and pearl. If you have not yet had Kobe beef, you should taste the authentic Kobe beef. It is very satisfying taste. But I have recently moved to a city in Kyoto prefecture, so I can be in Kyoto city in about one hour. By the way, I am a family of four. I have a son and a daughter. My son now works in Tokyo. I sometimes go to Tokyo to see him. Tokyo is a huge city, but too crowded, so it seems not to suit me. I seem to be better suited to a small city than a big one. Where do you live in ? How many families do you have ? If you like, please tell me about them. I worked in the quality assurance department of a pharmaceutical company and visited the factories of foreign affiliated companies, so I became interested in foreign cultures and obtained a qualification as an interpreter guide in 2015.

    I have been a guide for about eight years. During that time, I have guided in Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara, Kochi and so on, although I could do little guiding work between 2020 and 2022 due to COVID-19. However, since last year, my guiding work has been back! So, I am happy to be able to meet different people again. My hobby is travelling, but sadly, I am not in a position to travel abroad easily at the moment due to the very weak yen, and I hope to travel abroad again when the situation eases a bit more.
    How many countries have you been to so far ? Which countries have you liked so far? Another hobby is watching sports – baseball and football. Do you like the baseball ? Do you know Otani, Japanese baseball player ? He has joined Dodgers in Los Angeles this year. I look forward to another successful year for Otani.

    By the way, what interests you in Japan? Food, history, scenery ? As far as tourist attractions are concerned, famous places are too crowded. If you like, I also would like to show you some less crowded places. Are you interested in experiencing something ? If you want to experience something, I can suggest an experience plan for you. If so, please contact me as early as possible. As for food, what kind of food do you like? There are many kinds of delicious food. Of course, you can get good food in fine restaurants, but you can also get good food in downtown restaurants. If you like alcohol, why don’t you try Japanese sake? It can range from light and fragrant to rich in flavor, so you’re sure to find a Japanese sake you like.

    My motto is “Be content with life.” However, I find myself complaining all the time. If you like, please tell me your motto. I want to treat all guests who visit Japan with the spirit of “Treasure every encounter” and guide them so that they can enjoy themselves and have good memories of Japan.
    You only live once (YOLO). So, I also want to enjoy it with you.

    I look forward to meeting you.
    Best regard.

    Nov 27, 2024
    Julianne_A
    Book it
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was a wonderful experience with our guide Hiro. He…

  • Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour

    Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Meet at Shimizu Port → Chartered taxi → 14:30 Shiraito Falls → 16:00 Sake tasting at Fuji Takasago Sake Brewery → 16:30 Mount Fuji World Heritage Centre → 17:00 Tea tasting at Tokiwaen Tea Shop → 18:30 Farewell at Shimizu Port

    Title: What's a Private Mt. Fuji Day Tour from a Cruise Port Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests' cruise ship arrived two hours late at 1:00 p.m., which caused a bit of a rush, but we headed to our first destination, Shiraito Falls. The guests took countless photos while enjoying the mist from the falls on their skin. At the next stop, Fuji Takasago Sake Brewery, they enjoyed a sake tasting and then browsed for souvenirs. After visiting the Mount Fuji World Heritage Centre, we went to a nearby specialty tea shop called Tokiwaen for a tasting of green tea and matcha. Not only the shop owner but the whole family joined in to teach us everything from the different tea varieties to how to prepare a delicious cup, which delighted the guests. At the end, everyone took a photo together, and despite the busy schedule, we wrapped up an enjoyable Mt. Fuji tour.

    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…