Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: 20 @Takeshita Street

    Tokyo in One Day: 20 @Takeshita Street

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.11:00 Meet up @Airbnb Iwamotocho
    • 2.12:00 @Shimokitazawa
    • 3:11:20 @Takeshita Street
    • 4.13:30 Lunch @Jojoen Shibuya
    • 5.14:30 @Shibuya
    • 6.15:30 @Cat Street
    • 7.17:00 Disband @Airbnb Iwamotocho

    Title: What's a Family-Friendly Private Tokyo Tour Away From the Crowds Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They wanted to avoid crowded places. Some of the guests were interested in thrift shopping and anime, but did not want to go to Akihabara because it was too crowded. First, we went to Shimokitazawa, where the whole group enjoyed buying clothes and accessories. (They seemed to particularly like Japanese-made clothing rather than secondhand items.) In Shibuya, we had lunch at Jojoen. They liked the pleasant atmosphere and found the meat delicious. They purchased anime goods at Village Vanguard and Parco. We walked along Cat Street, bought clothes at another vintage shop, and picked up stickers at B-Side Label before heading back to Iwamotocho. The rain stopped right around 11:00 and even gave way to some sunshine, so I believe the guests enjoyed themselves.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainIwamotocho～Shimokitazawa430JPY
    Section 2TrainShimokitazawa～Shibuya140JPY
    Section 3TrainMeiji-jingumae～Iwamotocho290JPY
    Total860JPY

    Tour Report by FUMIKO

    Hello, I am Fumiko, an English-speaking Tourist Guide. I have been guiding foreign visitors science 2016. Please let me know your bucket lists whiles you are staying in Japan and what you are interested in. I will make the best plan for you. This is an once in a lifetime experience for you. As for myself, I love traveling, meeting people, eating local food, drinking, history, and art. I am learning Ikebana, traditional Japanese-style flower arrangement, and tea ceremony. I also love sports, especially tennis. I like children, so I can teach them some origami, folding paper. I am looking forward to hearing from you and seeing you in Japan.

    Request Booking

    Jul 27, 2026
    zyarisa
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko tour good vibes only
    Mrs. fumiko was very…

    Jul 23, 2026
    734mortenp
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Nice tour of Tokyo
    Don’t visit Tokyo without a guide! You’ll…

    Jul 10, 2026
    Jessica_A
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko was wonderful. …
    Fumiko was wonderful. You can…

    Jun 28, 2026
    alistairn2016
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fumiko is a great tour guide – informative, friendly and very well…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Hotel
    • 09:40 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:00 Imperial Palace Outer Garden, Inui Street Walkthrough
    • 12:30 Asakusa

    What Is a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and Asakusa We met at the hotel. The guests had not purchased an IC card, so after discussing options, we bought a PASMO at the ticket machine at Higashi-Shinjuku Station. As planned, we visited Meiji Shrine at a relaxed pace. We came across a family holding a traditional shrine visit ceremony, and the guests seemed to thoroughly enjoy the atmosphere of the shrine set within the forest. Some of the guests became quite absorbed in the shop at a rest house we stopped by, which took a little time. We then headed to the Imperial Palace. Since the Inui-dori passage was being opened to the public, we discussed the viewing route in detail and decided to view the main gate of the Imperial Palace from a distance before heading to the passage. The guests enjoyed the atmosphere of the Imperial Palace grounds, which are not usually accessible. As the cherry blossoms toward Chidorigafuchi were not yet in bloom, we skipped that area and headed from Takebashi to Asakusa. By the time we reached the tourist and cultural center, the guests were a little tired. I gave an overview of Senso-ji Temple from the 8th-floor terrace, and since our time was nearly up, we ended the tour there for the time being. As the guests had mentioned wanting to buy a Japanese kitchen knife during the tour, I took them to Kappabashi on the way back before saying goodbye.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Shinjuku～Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae Station / Shibuya-ku, Tokyo～Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 3SubwayTakebashi～Asakusa290JPY
    Total680JPY

    Tour Report by MATT

    Hi,I’m Matt.
    Let’s enjoy together and learn a little bit more about Tokyo and Japan.
    I have many experiences in private tour and can be flexible in planning the tour itinerary. To see everything in Tokyo may be difficult in few days. Historical points,seasonal view point,most trendy places,there are so many to choose. Please let me know your interest or whatever you want to see,and I will try my best to fulfill your request.Off course those who do not have a choice is most welcome. I will come up with the most recommended points to visit at the time.
    So,see you soon.

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    Apr 18, 2025
    S3270IProbertj
    MATT is a great guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We were guided the whole day by…

    Mar 25, 2025
    R
    Resort23969735918
    Amazing experience with an amazing guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing experience. Matt is extremely…

    Oct 15, 2024
    Vacation651871
    Tokyo walking around
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a very interesting and detailed tour wirh…

    Aug 30, 2024
    Peter_G
    Great tour with Matt
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Matt our tour guide was great, very knowledgeable…

  • Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 11:00 In front of the hotel　Tour start
    • Transfer　Bus　Hashibacho
    • AM 11:30-PM 12:30 Strolling around Higashi Chaya District　Utasu Shrine　Hakuichi　Gold leaf ice cream
    • Transfer　Bus　Kenrokuen-shita
    • PM 12:45 -13:45 Kutani ware shop　Kanazawa Castle Park　　Hishi Yagura　Gojukken Nagaya　Hashizumemon Tsuzuki Yagura tour
    • Transfer　Walk　Nagamachi Samurai District　　Via Gyokusen-in, Oyama Shrine
    • PM 14:00-14:50 Nagamachi Samurai District　Shopping at cutlery shop
    • Transfer　Bus　Tour ends at Kanazawa Station

    Title: What's a Private Kanazawa Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a visitor from Europe. They had been traveling as part of a group but chose to explore independently and join the tour on their own. At the start of the tour, they mentioned that they had visited Kenrokuen Garden on their own the previous day, and that they hoped to buy craft souvenirs for their family, as well as a kitchen knife for themselves if they could find one they liked. Based on these wishes, I planned an itinerary that would let us visit shops offering those items. They found a Kutani-yaki piece they liked at a shop near Kenrokuen Garden, and at a shop in the Nagamachi district they spent about 30 minutes carefully choosing before purchasing a kitchen knife they were very happy with.

    Click here for more details: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKanazawa Station／Hokuriku Railroad Bus～Hashibacho／Hokuriku Railroad Bus220JPY
    Section 2BusHashibacho／Hokuriku Railroad Bus～Kenrokuen-shita・Kanazawa Castle／Hokuriku Railroad Bus220JPY
    Section 3BusKorinbo／Hokuriku Railroad Bus～Kanazawa Station／Hokuriku Railroad Bus220JPY
    Total660JPY

    Tour Report by YOSHI

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

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    Jul 25, 2026
    Ann W
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Incredible tour, one of the highlights of my…

    Jul 18, 2026
    Geert73
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Well-Organized and Informative Tour of Kanazawa
    We, a…

    Jul 15, 2026
    G5010ZVmelodys
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Local Food & Tea Culture Tour with Licensed Guide
    Number one guide for personalised touring of Kanazawa
    Our…

    Jul 11, 2026
    rikkes490
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Rigtig god guidet tur
    Rigtig god oplevelse og gode forklaringer

    とても良いガイドツアーでした。
    とても良い体験でした。説明も分かりやすく、とても良かったです。

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0930 Meet at Hilton Tokyo Odaiba (1 min from Yurikamome Daiba Station)
    • 1010 Okachimachi, Ameyoko, Shogitai Monument, Hanazono Shrine, Kiyomizu Kannon-do
    • 1130 Asakusa, Azumabashi, Kaminarimon, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine
    • 1250 Otemachi, Otemon Gate, Tatsumi Yagura, Gyoko-dori Avenue, Maru Building Pine Piles, Tokyo Station
    • 1340 See off at Shimbashi Station and disband

    What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Cherry Blossom Tour in Spring? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who had arrived in Japan for the first time the previous night. They live in different regions during different seasons and had come from one of them this time. Their connecting flight had been delayed, and the journey had taken nearly a full day, so they were somewhat tired. They mentioned they would go food hopping the following evening, and the day after that they planned to board a cruise ship from Yokohama. In our earlier conversation, the guests had expressed a wish to see cherry blossoms, but the Somei-Yoshino were less than one-third in bloom. However, the weeping cherry trees beside Keisei Station at Ueno Park and in front of the Hozomon Gate at Sensoji Temple were nearly in full bloom, which delighted the guests. Since one of the guests had some difficulty going up and down stairs, we used elevators and escalators as much as possible. The Imperial Palace was lively with the special public opening of the Inui Gate, but as a short rest was needed, we took a break beside a Starbucks. Afterward, we strolled through the Marunouchi area. The guests had also considered a walk in Ginza in the morning, but decided to rest at the hotel instead, so I saw them off at Shimbashi Station, ending the tour.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainDaiba～Shimbashi330JPY
    Section 2TrainShimbashi～Okachimachi200JPY
    Section 3SubwayUeno～Asakusa180JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa～Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 5TrainTokyo～Shimbashi160JPY
    Total1,050JPY

    Tour Report by Ted

    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.

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    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…

    May 18, 2026
    B
    Beth56646
    Great tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Ted and I agreed upon what we would see…

  • Tokyo in One Day: East Gardens & Ginza

    Tokyo in One Day: East Gardens & Ginza

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet @ Hotel
    • 10:40 East Gardens
    • 12:30 Lunch @ Asakusa Gonpachi & Sensoji Temple & Asakusa Shrine
    • 14:10 Ueno
    • 15:20 Ginza (Intersection)
    • 16:00 Disband @ Shibuya

    What Can You See on a Private Cherry Blossom Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe, and their main goal for this visit was to see the cherry blossoms. I first took them to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. I had explained in advance that you cannot view the palace up close the way you can at other famous palaces abroad, but since only the ruins of the castle keep remain, they seemed a little disappointed. Even so, they took many photos in the Ninomaru Garden and enjoyed themselves. After that, we went to Senso-ji Temple, where they selected and purchased various jinbei (traditional summer garments) as gifts at the Nakamise shopping street. We walked along the row of cherry trees in Ueno Park, then saw the Ginza crossing, and parted ways at the Hotel in Shibuya.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShibuya～Otemachi (Tokyo)210JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)～Asakusa290JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa～Ueno180JPY
    Section 4SubwayUeno～Ginza180JPY
    Section 5SubwayGinza～Shibuya210JPY
    Total1,070JPY

    Tour Report by Rumi

    Hello,
    I’m Rumi.Welcome to Japan!!
    I’m a government-licensed guide in the Tokyo area.
    I’m so excited to have a chance to show you my favorite places in Tokyo.
    Tokyo is a fantastic city with many aspects like history,culture and food.
    What interests you about Tokyo?
    What kind of Japanese food would you like to try?
    I’ll take you to various places according to your request.
    My favorite spot is Meiji Shrine.
    It’s so peaceful that I’m sure you like it.
    I really like to talk with foreigners about various topics.So, I love my job.
    I look forward to meeting and guiding you soon.

    Request Booking

    Jun 29, 2026
    898clausw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Really helpfull guide
    Extremely helpfull to have a friendly and competent guide…

    Jun 27, 2026
    sallypO7128PM
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo- family with older teens
    My family had an excellent…

    Jun 15, 2026
    Scott P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Terrific Tour and Guide
    We had an incredible day! Rumi was…

    Jun 12, 2026
    Tonya O
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Rumi is a great guide!
    Rumi was a wonderful guide. She…

  • Kobe Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kobe Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kobe Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 08:30 Meet @ Kobe Port Terminal
    • 2. 08:50 @ Kobe Harborland
    • 3. 09:20 @ Sorakuen Garden
    • 4. 10:05 @ Kitanocho Ijinkan Street
    • 5. 10:35 @ Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden Ropeway Sanroku Station
    • 6. 11:05 @ Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum
    • 7. 12:40 Lunch @ Kura Sushi Kasuganomichi Branch
    • 8. 13:30 Disband @ Kobe Port Terminal

    What Can You See on a Private Kobe Tour Before a Cruise Departure? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. The tour was originally planned from 9:00 to 15:00, but because the guests' cruise ship was departing at 15:00, we changed the schedule to run from 8:30 to 14:00. Also, since many facilities open only after 9:00, we started the tour from Kobe Harborland. The weather was lovely that day, and we pleasantly toured Harborland, Sorakuen Garden, and the Kitano Ijinkan foreign residences district, then went to the base station of the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden ropeway. However, there was a long line of people waiting for the elevator here. The guests said, "We don't want to wait long, so let's go somewhere else," so we headed to our next destination, the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum. The guests learned in detail about the sake brewing process, enjoyed a tasting that included junmai daiginjo sake, and purchased the Japanese sake they wanted as well as a gift for family. It was just about lunchtime. The guests said, "We'd like to eat sushi and sashimi," so we went to a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant and had a meal. The guests enjoyed their meal here. There was a plan to go shopping afterward, but the guests wished to return to the cruise ship, so we headed back to the port terminal and ended the tour a little early. The guests were very pleased.

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

    Tour Report by Norio

    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!

    Request Booking

    Jul 7, 2026
    77guye
    The best way to experience Himeji Castle
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    What a great way to…

    May 30, 2026
    karenpG5549XU
    Loved our tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour with Norio, would highly…

    May 28, 2026
    TrailBlazer741528
    Kobe Variety.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our delightful guide, Norio, was knowledgeable and a master at…

    May 23, 2026
    sarahpR5911DJ
    Himeji castle with Norio
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learnt lots about Himeji castle and it…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Kyoto Imperial Palace Garden

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Kyoto Imperial Palace Garden

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:15-8:10 @ Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 8:45-10:00 @ Sagano Arashiyama
    • 10:30-11:30 @ Nijo Castle
    • 11:45-12:45 @ Kyoto Imperial Palace Garden
    • 13:00 Dismissal @ Toraya Karyo Kyoto Ichijo Store

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Arashiyama, and Kyoto Imperial Palace The guests were a group visiting from North America. To avoid crowds as much as possible, we began with a stroll around Fushimi Inari. Since the guests were students, I mentioned that the auxiliary shrine, Higashimaru Shrine, is dedicated to the deity of academics, and the whole group offered their prayers there. At Nonomiya Shrine in Arashiyama, which is known for blessings related to safe childbirth and children, one of the guests dedicated an ema votive plaque and received a goshuin stamp. Originally, the plan was to explore Nijo Castle and then Gion, but since the guests had already visited Gion on a separate tour the previous day, they said they would rather go to the Kyoto Imperial Palace. So we changed our plans on the spot and headed to the Kyoto Imperial Palace. The Konoe cherry blossoms at Kyoto Gyoen were in full bloom, which delighted the guests greatly, but unfortunately the Kyoto Imperial Palace itself was closed, and we were unable to view the interior. Even though it was a sudden change, it was a painful mistake to have taken them there without checking the viewing status, and I deeply regret it. After strolling through Kyoto Gyoen, the guests asked me to recommend a tea house where they could drink matcha, so I guided them to a nearby traditional Japanese confectionery tea room, Toraya Karyo Kyoto Ichijo, and we parted ways there.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGojo (Kyoto Municipal)～Kyoto220JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 3TrainInari～Sagano Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 4TrainSagano Arashiyama～Nijo200JPY
    Section 5SubwayNijo～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 6SubwayNijojo-mae～Imadegawa220JPY
    Total1,250JPY

    Tour Report by Kaz

    Hi, thank you very much for choosing the JGA tour!

    My name is Kazuhiro Yoshida, please call me “Kaz”.

    I am an English-speaking National Licensed Tour Guide in Japan, and have been guiding mainly in Kyoto and other Kansai areas since April 2023. I have guided over 1,000 tours in total so far, and I am on my way to becoming one of the best English-speaking tour guides in Japan.

    I have a great passion to show people from all over the world, the deep histories and cultures of Japan, the country I truly love.
    I am focused to take you out on a tour that will become one of the best highlights of your entire trip.

    I am glad to have an opportunity to be your guide, and I hope that we can explore many hidden gems of Japan together!

    Request Booking

    May 19, 2026
    498stephenq
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    An enjoyable visit
    Really enjoyed our visit with Kaz. Friendly, informative, and…

    Apr 11, 2026
    V5131MFjodieh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kyoto morning tour with Kaz
    Kaz (Kazuhiro) guided my family in historic…

    Oct 14, 2025
    Scenic61154406959
    Great Historical Perspective
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoshida was excellent, he had a great knowledge of…

    Sep 29, 2025
    Jea L
    Excellent Tour of Kyoto with Kaz
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kaz was an excellent tour…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 11:00 Meet at Hilton Tokyo
    • 2. 11:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 3. 13:30 Imperial Palace Outer Garden & East Garden
    • 4. 15:00 Lunch @ Otemachi
    • 5. 16:15 Asakusa
    • 6. 17:10 Disband @ Asakusa

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and Asakusa Body: We met as scheduled at the Hotel in Shinjuku slightly before the meeting time. The morning rain had mostly cleared, and we headed to JR Shinjuku Station. When we tried to buy a Suica together at the ticket machine, the guest was not quite sure, but it turned out they had already purchased 3,000 yen of Mobile Suica on their phone, so we used that and started the tour. At Meiji Shrine, the guest repeatedly praised the atmosphere surrounded by forest, made a proper prayer, bought an omamori charm, and also bought an ema plaque to write a wish. Fortunately there was a wedding taking place, and they were very pleased to be able to take photos up close. At the Imperial Palace, we went aiming for the "Inui Street" walkthrough, where early-blooming cherry blossoms were out, and the guest happily took photos. Likewise at the East Gardens, they were very satisfied with the fully-bloomed early cherry blossoms and took photos. Because we started late, we had a late lunch, but at Otemachi they had katsu curry and katsudon, nearly finishing both and enjoying them very much. For our final stop in Asakusa, we were a bit short on time and had to move quickly, but they enjoyed the view of the Sumida River from Azumabashi Bridge (the cherry blossoms here were not yet out) and the view of the Asahi Beer headquarters, then went from Kaminarimon Gate through Nakamise to the main hall of Sensoji Temple, which I believe they found satisfying. On the way back, the guest wanted to stop by Akihabara. The official tour had already concluded, but since taking the Ginza Line from Asakusa to Suehirocho matched my own way home, we rode together and parted inside the train at Suehirocho Station. I handed over a printed set of directions for the route from Suehirocho back to the Hotel in Shinjuku, and the guest seemed reassured as they headed off to Akihabara.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Harajuku160JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 3SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)～Asakusa290JPY
    Total660JPY

    Tour Report by Mac

    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.

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    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…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera & Chishaku-in

    Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera & Chishaku-in

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Hotel Meet(@Resol Kyoto)
    • 8:30-9:20 Transfer (City Bus; Gojo → Gojozaka)
    • 9:20-10:40 Kiyomizu-dera visit (including Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka, Koshin-do, Yasaka Pagoda)
    • 10:40-11:00 Yasaka Shrine visit
    • 11:00-11:30 Transfer (City Bus; in front of Yasaka Shrine → Keihan Shichijo)
    • 11:30-12:20 Lunch (@VegOut / near Keihan Shichijo)
    • 12:20-12:30 Transfer (on foot; restaurant → Sanjusangendo)
    • 12:30-13:20 Sanjusangendo visit
    • 13:20-13:30 Transfer (on foot; Sanjusangendo → Chishaku-in)
    • 13:30-14:30 Chishaku-in visit
    • 14:30 Tour end We parted with the guests in front of Chishaku-in.

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Temple Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kiyomizu-dera, Sanjusangendo, and Chishaku-in The guests were visitors from Oceania, and it was their first time in Japan. They were very interested in Japanese architecture. I guided them to Kiyomizu-dera, Sanjusangendo, and Chishaku-in. I made an effort to explain as much as I could about Japanese architecture, including the cliff-hanging construction of Kiyomizu-dera and the earthquake-resistant structure of Sanjusangendo. Among the highlights, one of the guests was most impressed by the cliff-hanging construction of Kiyomizu-dera, while another was most struck by the 1,001 statues of Kannon at Sanjusangendo.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusGojo (Kyoto Municipal)～Gojozaka / Kyoto Municipal Bus230JPY
    Section 2BusGion / Kyoto Bus～Keihan Shichijo / Queen Line230JPY
    Total460JPY

    Tour Report by Michi

    My name is (Mr.)Michiharu Aioi and I worked at Electronic Manufacturing Company (Panasonic) for more than 40 years in charge of overseas sales.
    I learned a lot in these 40 years and now I would like to contribute to the promotion of mutual understanding with foreign countries being involved in tourism busines utilizing my long experience in my previous company. I will do my best to make each trip very fruitful for each foreign visitor.
    As for my language ability, in addition to English, I can speak Spanish which I used in my job and I can communicate with Chinese people with intermediate level. Finally It is my great pleasure if my activity could work in the mutual understang with foreign visitors. Thanks a Lot !

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    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…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Mount Shosha / Engyoji & Food court inside Himeji

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Mount Shosha / Engyoji & Food court inside Himeji

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet @ JR Himeji Station
    • 10:30 @ Mount Shosha / Engyoji Temple
    • 12:45 @ Koko-en Garden
    • 13:15 @ Himeji Castle (from the outside only)
    • 14:00 @ Food court inside Himeji Station

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Himeji and Mount Shosha Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: The guests were visitors from North America. Since walking was difficult for one of them, we proceeded at a relaxed pace throughout the day. At Engyoji Temple on Mount Shosha, some of the guests waited at spots that involved stairs rather than climbing them. They were very interested in visiting the buildings that served as a major filming location for the Hollywood film "The Last Samurai," starring Tom Cruise. They also showed great interest in the autographed cards of Tom Cruise and Ken Watanabe displayed at the ropeway station. I shared some episodes from the time of filming, which they greatly enjoyed. Unfortunately, due to the walking condition and the extra time we spent at our first stop, Engyoji Temple on Mount Shosha, we were only able to stay about 15 minutes at Himeji Castle. They said they would very much like to visit again. After the tour, the guests wished to have a light meal before heading to Okayama, so I recommended "Ekisoba," a Himeji specialty (Chinese-style noodles in Japanese dashi), at the food court inside Himeji Station, where we parted ways. When I presented one of the guests with a handmade drawstring pouch made by [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide's sister, they were very interested and delighted. The guests kindly said, "When you visit San Francisco, I will guide you for free," which was a warm and heartwarming remark that made me very happy. Today's driver was very polite and friendly, both in driving and in manner, and was also very knowledgeable about the local area.

    Click here for more details: Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Yama

    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

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    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Diane_B
    Viator review: Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Yama was amazing!!
    Our tour guide…

    Jul 4, 2026
    Navigator661725
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful time!
    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…