Category: Uncategorized

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Namba Yasaka Shrine

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Namba Yasaka Shrine

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 14:00 Meet up @WOsaka
    • 14:35-15:20@Osaka Castle
    • 16:05-16:15＠Namba Yasaka Shrine
    • 16:35-17:10@Dotonbori, Hozenji Temple
    • 17:15-18:00@Daimaru Shinsaibashi, PARCO
    • 18:10 Disband @W Osaka

    Can You Do a Private Osaka Day Tour in the Rain? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Unfortunately, it rained continuously, and at first we continued sightseeing while wearing rain gear. However, after visiting Osaka Castle, the wind and rain grew stronger, and it became difficult even to walk, so we cut short our visits to Namba Yasaka Shrine and Dotonbori. After that, we moved to the covered Shinsaibashi shopping arcade, where the guests enjoyed shopping at places such as the Pokemon Center in Daimaru. Because of the bad weather, the guests wished to return to the hotel once to change clothes before heading out for dinner, so I saw them off near the hotel and we parted ways. I can only hope they did not catch a cold.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinsaibashi～Tanimachi 4-chome190JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Daikokucho240JPY
    Total430JPY

    Tour Report by Sachiko

    I’m Sahiko Ogura, Sachiko literally means ‘happy child’, please call me Sachiko or Sachi for short. I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been guide for 6 years mainly in Osaka, Kyoto and Nara after having worked far trading company. I love traveling and visited about 30 countries, where I had a great time and experienced something new and exciting. I also like sports, tea ceremony and gardening, I’m growing veritable and flower in my garden. Please let me know your interest and anything what you would like to do during your tour. I’m happy to make an itinerary customized for you.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you and exploring in my home town!

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    Sep 26, 2026
    Y
    yolanda552
    Sachiko the best tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Sachiko was our tour guide…

    Sep 9, 2026
    peteraI5718XP
    My First Visit to Osaka
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    I enjoyed seeing Osaka through Sachiko’s…

    Sep 4, 2026
    S
    satchithh
    Hasabnis family
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sachiko or Choko Ogura is a…

    Aug 3, 2026
    G6602NEeduardoa
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Osaka Tour with Sachiko
    We had a great Osaka…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:15　Meet in front of Hamarikyu Gardens entrance
    • 2. 9:25　＠Hamarikyu Gardens (including a break at the Nakajima Teahouse)
    • 3. 11:15　＠Tokyo Tower
    • 4. 12:10　Lunch＠Tokyo Tower 2nd floor food court
    • 5. 13:10　＠Imperial Palace (Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate, Outer Garden)
    • 6. 13:30　＠Tokyo Station Marunouchi side (from the car window)
    • 7. 13:50　＠Asakusa (Azumabashi Bridge, Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Shopping Street, Asakusa Shrine)
    • 8. 15:20　Disband＠in front of Grand Hammer near Shimbashi Station

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Sightseeing Tour Like for Senior Travelers? A Licensed Guide's Report One of the guests had visited Japan three times long ago for work, but for the others this was their first visit to Japan. The guests currently reside in North America. They became friends after meeting on a cruise about two years ago and have since enjoyed traveling together. The cruise they were currently on was a roughly three-month voyage circling the Pacific, having already visited countries in the Southern Hemisphere and Southeast Asia, and finally heading from Alaska to end in North America. During our conversation, I was surprised to hear that the cost of the three-month cruise was 50,000 dollars per person. Originally, we had planned to travel by train and meet in front of Tokyo Station, but this was changed the day before. The guests took two taxis from Yokohama and joined me at the entrance of Hamarikyu Gardens. Because walking was difficult for one of the guests, they had switched to taxi travel at short notice. We strolled slowly through Hamarikyu Gardens. At the Nakajima teahouse, they leisurely enjoyed matcha. They shared that previous optional tours had tended to be rushed, so having such a relaxed pace was very much appreciated. To keep the walking distance short, we took a route back to the exit from there. Next we visited Tokyo Tower, where after going up to the 150m main deck, we had lunch. Ramen had come up as a request, partly because there was a food court where everyone could sit together, but besides ramen some also enjoyed pizza. In addition, souvenirs could be purchased on the same floor at the same time, which greatly reduced the walking burden. At the Imperial Palace, we limited the walking route to Nijubashi Bridge and the Main Gate. In Asakusa, the guest who had difficulty walking stayed in the vehicle rather than getting out, but that guest's companion greatly enjoyed Nakamise Street and more. The final stop was the entrance of a facility in front of Shimbashi Station. A reservation had been made at a venue there where guests could experience dining with a geisha, and although it was a little early before the show began, we said our goodbyes at that point. It was memorable when the guest who had organized this Tokyo tour said: "We make friends at each stage of life — friends from school days, friends made through our children, and so on — but I never imagined that at this age I could make new friends and deepen those friendships. And yet we are actually deepening and enjoying our relationships with the new friends we met in these senior years."

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

    Tour Report by Noripy

    Hello, I’m Noripy.
    I am a lively woman in my 60s who loves having fun. My charm lies in my bright and approachable personality. Drawing on over 30 years of international experience, I began working as a tour guide in 2023. I have conducted over 100 tours annually, ensuring that my clients enjoy Tokyo and its surrounding areas. I have received high praise from a wide range of customers, from teenagers to people in their 80s. I cater to solo travelers, couples, newlyweds, families, and groups of up to about 10 people. Living in the heart of the city, I actively guide tours primarily in Tokyo. In addition to being certified in English, one of my strengths is being able to communicate effectively in Spanish as well.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you all in Tokyo!

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    Sep 10, 2026
    Sonal_G
    Noripy is just the best
    Viator review: Tokyo Vegetarian and Halal Food Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Noripy is such a…

    Jul 3, 2026
    Jody D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from Yokohama
    Best Post cruise tour ever
    It was…

    June 19, 2026
    Alec T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo in 4 hours
    Noripy was excellent! She guided us through…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Hema_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely experience. My…
    Lovely experience. My guide was an absolutely adorable lady…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji-jingumae Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji-jingumae Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up (Henn na Hotel Nishikasai)
    • 10:50 Meiji-jingumae Station (Stroll around Meiji Shrine)
    • 11:40 Harajuku (Stroll around Takeshita Street & Cat Street)
    • 13:40 Shibuya PARCO (JUMP Shop)
    • 14:00 Lunch
    • 15:00 Animate Shibuya・In front of 109 Building・Hachiko Square
    • 15:40 Shibuya Station
    • 15:50 Harajuku Station
    • 16:00 Disband at the dog cafe (RIO) on Takeshita Street

    What Is a Private Tour of Meiji Shrine and Harajuku Anime Spots in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were interested to learn that Meiji Shrine is a man-made forest and that its omikuji fortune slips are unique, containing not the usual luck rankings but poems composed by Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. One of the guests enjoyed drawing an omikuji. From our prior communication, I had heard that the guests were interested in Japanese anime such as Demon Slayer and Jujutsu Kaisen, so I guided them on a pilgrimage of related spots from Takeshita Street to Cat Street to Shibuya, along with anime-related shops. At the end, they asked to return not to the hotel but to Takeshita Street to finish at a dog cafe, so I accommodated that request and concluded the tour there. This was my first assignment through [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), and the initial guidance emails were very helpful. I look forward to working together again.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNishikasai～Meiji-jingumae260JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya～Harajuku160JPY
    Total420JPY

    Tour Report by TAKA

    Welcome to Japan! I am TAKA, English and Mandarin Chinese licensed guide. I am from Osaka but have lived in Tokyo for more than 20 years. Being a member of Tokyo City Guide Club, I am pleased to escort you to several must-see places in Tokyo, such as Meiji Jingu Shrine, Imperial Palace East Garden, Ueno Park, Asakusa and so on. Tokyo National Museum located inside Ueno Park is also a recommendable attraction if you are interested in history of Japan as well as cultures and art works such as Japanese swords and lacquer wares. My hobby is to travel all over Japan by train hence I am more than happy if I would have opportunities to accompany you to Mt. Fuji, Hakone, Kamakura, Nikko area by utilizing public transportation. See you here in Tokyo! Thank you.
    欢迎您来到日本! 我是高山干久，中文和英文国家认可导游。我出身在大阪，现住在东京已经20多年。作为东京城市导游俱乐部成员，我很高兴地陪同您去东京旅游景点例如明治神宫，皇居东御园，上野公园，浅草等等。如果您对日本的历史和文化，传统工艺包括日本刀，日本漆器等额，我推荐您也访问所在上野公园旁边的东京国立博物馆。我个人有时间喜欢坐列车旅游日本各地，所以如果您有兴趣利用公共交通访问东京郊外包括富士山，箱根，镰仓，日光等，我非常乐意陪同您去各地导游呢。希望在日本见面！

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  • Osaka: Osaka Castle & Naniwa Nipponbashi Theater

    Osaka: Osaka Castle & Naniwa Nipponbashi Theater

    Osaka Customized Tour & Geisha Performance, Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet @St Regis
    • 8:55-10:15@ Osaka Castle
    • 10:50-12:05@Shitennoji Temple, Paradise Garden
    • 12:20-13:10@Kuromon Market
    • 13:15-14:00@Naniwa Nipponbashi Theater
    • 14:00 Disband@In front of Naniwa Nipponbashi Theater

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Shitennoji, and a Geisha Experience The guests were a group visiting from North America. Since there had been no reply beforehand, I was a little concerned, but on the day they gathered early and readily agreed to the itinerary I proposed. As some in the group needed extra support with walking, we used the shuttle bus at Osaka Castle and took taxis between sightseeing spots. Everyone loved flowers and plants, and they especially enjoyed the garden at Shitennoji, taking their time to appreciate it fully. During the geisha experience, perhaps out of shyness only one of the guests tried the games, but they enjoyed taking photos in kimono and later even purchased kimono, seeming to truly enjoy Japanese culture. At the end, following their request, I introduced them to LUCUA in Umeda, saw them off in a taxi, and we parted ways.

    Click here for more details: Osaka Customized Tour & Geisha Performance, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHommachi～Tanimachi Yonchome190JPY
    Total190JPY

    Tour Report by Sachiko

    I’m Sahiko Ogura, Sachiko literally means ‘happy child’, please call me Sachiko or Sachi for short. I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been guide for 6 years mainly in Osaka, Kyoto and Nara after having worked far trading company. I love traveling and visited about 30 countries, where I had a great time and experienced something new and exciting. I also like sports, tea ceremony and gardening, I’m growing veritable and flower in my garden. Please let me know your interest and anything what you would like to do during your tour. I’m happy to make an itinerary customized for you.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you and exploring in my home town!

    Request Booking

    Sep 26, 2026
    Y
    yolanda552
    Sachiko the best tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Sachiko was our tour guide…

    Sep 9, 2026
    peteraI5718XP
    My First Visit to Osaka
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    I enjoyed seeing Osaka through Sachiko’s…

    Sep 4, 2026
    S
    satchithh
    Hasabnis family
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sachiko or Choko Ogura is a…

    Aug 3, 2026
    G6602NEeduardoa
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Osaka Tour with Sachiko
    We had a great Osaka…

  • Tokyo: Meiji Shrine & Shibuya

    Tokyo: Meiji Shrine & Shibuya

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at Tokyo International Cruise Terminal
    • 9:20 From Tokyo Station to Nijubashi Bridge at the Imperial Palace
    • 10:30 Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observation Deck
    • 11:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 13:00 Shibuya
    • 14:00 Asakusa・Senso-ji Temple
    • 16:20 Tour ends at Shimbashi Station

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Before a Cruise? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. They had arrived in Japan only the previous night, ahead of a cruise departing this evening, and wanted to see Tokyo today. I did my best to cover as many of Tokyo's major spots as possible. We first went from Tokyo Station to the Imperial Palace and Nijubashi Bridge. Along the way, I focused my explanations on how Edo Castle came to become the Imperial Palace, as well as on the Meiji Restoration. Since it happened to be a beautifully clear day, I suddenly decided to head to the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, from which you can see the whole city. Unfortunately, the haze prevented us from seeing as far as Mount Fuji, but the guests seemed amazed by the sheer scale of the city compared with their own hometown. At Meiji Shrine, I explained Shinto, and at the main hall the guests actually offered a prayer while I spoke about how Shinto is woven into everyday life in Japan. A Japanese book on the theme of "ikigai" is currently a bestseller in their country, and they had read it before their trip, so they seemed deeply moved as they reflected on it together with what they learned about Shinto. After being astonished by the crowds at Shibuya Crossing, we headed to Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple. We had lunch at a sushi restaurant they had requested, and they enjoyed the unique atmosphere of Asakusa.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Atsushi

    Hello and welcome to Tokyo!

    I have been working for business with American companies for many years. I have many experiences guiding customers from around the world in Japan and taking Japanese customers to the USA and Europe.

    I now have a national license as a guiding interpreter, and I want to introduce the unique gigantic city of Tokyo and the traditional Japanese culture, which is not shown in the guidebooks, to people worldwide who are interested in it. In addition, I want to introduce various Japanese foods you can enjoy only in Japan.
    Unique experiences such as the Sumo Training Viewing and Tea Ceremony are optionally available.
    Depending on your preference and itinerary, I can guide you in Tokyo, Kamakura, and Hakone so that you can enjoy your time in Japan.

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    Aug 18, 2026
    Heather_C
    Private tour for 4 in Tokyo – highly recommend
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide…

    Aug 8, 2026
    victoriahD2588SK
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    An action packed visit to Hakone!
    Atsushi was an…

    Jul 26, 2026
    Kevin_B
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Highly recommend this tour for first time…

    Jun 22, 2026
    Ashish_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best Tour for a Short Visit
    Atsushi-san was an incredibly well-researched and…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.　9:50　Meet up　Double Tree by Hilton Tokyo Ariake
    • 2.　10:30　Tsukiji
    • 3.　11:40　East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 4.　13:25　Nezu Shrine
    • 5.　14:15　Dismiss＠Nezu Station

    What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour of Tsukiji, the Imperial Palace, and Nezu Shrine Like? A Licensed Guide's Report We met about 10 minutes before the scheduled meeting time. For ease of transportation, we traveled to Tsukiji by taking the Yurikamome and the subway to Shintomicho, and then walked from there. At Tsukiji, I pointed out and explained seasonal bamboo shoots, as well as wasabi, and the guests looked with great interest at the many kinds of fish. They also seemed intrigued by the story about the auction and the president of Sushizanmai. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, the guests listened attentively to my explanations of the history, and since it had become the beautiful season for azaleas, they exclaimed "Beautiful!" and happily took many photos. We visited Nezu Shrine for its "Azalea Festival," and it was very well received as expected. There was a line to pass through the thousand torii gates, so we waited a little, but the guests happily said "This is cool!" and took many photos here as well, appearing very satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainAriake (Tokyo)～Toyosu260JPY
    Section 2SubwayToyosu～Shintomicho (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukiji～Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 4SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)～Nezu180JPY
    Total800JPY

    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.

    Request Booking

    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

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Meet at the hotel lobby
    • Shinjuku Station　JR Concierge (JR Pass issuance)
    • Chuo Line: Shinjuku→Tokyo, Toei Bus / Marunouchi South Exit→Tsukiji 3-chome
    • Tsukiji Outer Market→Hamarikyu→Caretta Shiodome Observation Space
    • Ginza Line / Shimbashi→Ginza
    • 4-chome Intersection→Mitsukoshi B2→Hodo Inari→Hibiya Godzilla→Nijubashi→East Gardens
    • 15:30 Tour ends at the ticket gate of Takebashi Station / Tozai Line

    What Can You See on a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Hamarikyu, and the Imperial Palace From an earlier email, I understood that the guests were still considering where to explore the following day, and from communication with the previous guide I had learned that "a sumo show could not be booked in Asakusa, so it was booked in Kyoto instead." Because I wanted them to experience the depth of sumo, as soon as we met I strongly recommended watching the morning practice at the Isegahama stable. After the booking was completed, we started the tour. When planning the route, I considered the efficiency of their walks from the following day onward. I left Asakusa, which is close to Ryogoku, as well as Shibuya and Meiji Shrine, which are relatively close to the Hotel, as candidates for later days, and instead chose Tsukiji, Hamarikyu, Ginza, the Imperial Palace Outer Garden, and the East Gardens. At Tsukiji, the guests enjoyed local specialties such as wagyu sushi, tamagoyaki, strawberries, dried goods, and beans. At a seafood shop, they were also able to see the head and central bones of a tuna, giving them a real sense of the lively atmosphere of the market. While walking through Hamarikyu, Ginza, Hibiya, and the Imperial Palace, I also spoke about the power of the Tokugawa shogunate, the lives of common people, and the transition from Edo to Tokyo. Seeing the heavily fortified moats, gates, and grand stone wall ruins of Edo Castle, together with the beautifully maintained nature, high-rise buildings, and cityscape, I believe the guests were able to feel Japan's history and present deeply. Also, today I received a thank-you email from the guests saying, "The practice viewing was very educational and wonderful," which made me very glad.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Tokyo260JPY
    Section 2TrainTokyo Station Marunouchi South Exit / Toei Bus～Tsukiji 3-chome / Toei Bus210JPY
    Section 3TrainShimbashi～Ginza180JPY
    Total650JPY

    Tour Report by Youko

    I’m Youko, a female guide. I saw your request for a guied tour on the notice board of JGA. It’s my great pleasure to show you around the city of Tokyo on the day your requested.

    I live in Saitama, about an hour north of Tokyo. My two children are grown up and are mother and father now. I enjoy grandma life here.

    Tokyo has so many wonderful sightseeing spots and attractions, art facilities, and parks. Please let me know your interests and what you would like to visit/ see/ do/ eat/ try this time. I’m so excited to start planning our itinerary and love to know your expectations.

    I look forward to hearing from you soon.

    with best regards,

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    May 12, 2026
    Terri_B
    Viator review: Tsukiji Food and Toyosu Market with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fantastic!!
    Had an issue finding Yoko but called her and figured…

    Mar 19, 2030
    Ayanna_W
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Like Exploring Tokyo with a Friend
    Yoko was…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Hotel Kyoto
    • 10:00-10:40. Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 11:10-12:00 Nijo Castle
    • 12:40-13:20 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 14:00-15:00 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 15:00-14:00 Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka
    • Tour ends

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour with a Licensed Guide Like? A Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji, and Kiyomizu-dera The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. They were a pleasant and warm group. At Fushimi Inari Taisha, they purchased amulets and paper charms, and I introduced the Omokaru-ishi stone and the Nenoue-no-matsu pine, where we took photos. We made our way through the crowds, boarded a train, and went to Nijo Castle, where they listened to the explanations. I also gave a brief explanation of the garden designed by Kobori Enshu, then we took a taxi toward Kinkaku-ji. Since they wanted to eat gyoza for lunch, I took them to a gyoza restaurant. About ten groups were waiting, so we headed to Kinkaku-ji first and had soft-serve ice cream in place of lunch. At Kinkaku-ji, I gave explanations and we tried coin tossing. We then took a taxi to the base of Kiyomizu-dera and walked up the slope for about 15 minutes. One of the guests seemed a bit carsick and low on energy, but after experiencing the womb passage (Tainai-meguri), striking the temple bell, and hearing the explanation of the stage, they felt better. I introduced Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, and then concluded the tour. I had intended to guide them to Yasaka Shrine as well, but since we were already more than 30 minutes over time, we ended there.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGion-Shijo～Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari～Sanjo (Kyoto Prefecture)240JPY
    Section 3SubwaySanjo (Kyoto Prefecture)～Nijojo-mae / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total710JPY

    Tour Report by Harumi

    Hello, my name is Harumi, and I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter in Japan. I have been actively involved in volunteer activities for many years, sharing my passion for Japanese culture and history. As a kimono dressing instructor, I can provide hands-on kimono experiences and guide tours. Additionally, I have extensive knowledge of sumo wrestling, making my tours ideal for those interested in this fascinating sport. I am also well-versed in Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings (Jūdenken) and can introduce historical townscapes dating back to the Edo period. If you are interested, I would be happy to show you around the sake brewing process in the Nada region.

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    Sep 29, 2026
    H1282JBkarinas
    Customizable tour with Harumi-san
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing tour with Harumi…

    Sep 28, 2026
    Coastal07335209891
    Kobe Delight with Harumi
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our tour was definitely customized and our…

    Sep 27, 2026
    kakeelma
    Learning is fun with Harumi san!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    My husband and I…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Cosmopolitan580857
    We had a great time! Kyoto is a beautiful city.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide…

  • Hokkaido in One Day: Hakodate Morning Market & Mount Hakodate

    Hokkaido in One Day: Hakodate Morning Market & Mount Hakodate

    Hakodate Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:45 pick up
    • 10:00 Hakodate Morning Market
    • 11:15 Goryokaku Tower
    • 12:40 Red Brick Warehouses Lunch
    • 13:50 Mount Hakodate
    • 14:50 cruise terminal dismissal

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Hakodate Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests did not appear even after 9:10, so I called them and learned that they had forgotten they had arranged for a guide. It then took some time for them to get ready, and we finally met at 9:45. The guests were a group of friends visiting from North America. They enjoyed talking, and when I mentioned that I had been to North America, they asked me all sorts of questions and the conversation flowed nicely. Since one of the guests could not walk for long distances, we agreed that it was fine to skip the areas inside Goryokaku Park and Motomachi. They were looking for souvenirs for family and were very pleased to be able to find some at the shop in the Red Brick Warehouse. They also enjoyed the cheesecake from Snaffle's, a Hakodate specialty, and were delighted with how delicious it was.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherHakodate Station～Goryokaku-koen-mae800JPY
    Total800JPY

    Tour Report by Akira

    Hello, my name is Akira Matsumoto, a national government-licensed guide in Hakodate and Sapporo. I’m a retired public school science teacher and have been working as a professional tour guide for more than five years. (Before retirement, I used to work as a volunteer guide mainly in Hakodate for more than 10 years) So I know every corner of Hakodate and its history, culture, and food.
    During the COVID-19 pandemic, I got into the graduate school of Hokkaido University, and in Japan’s modern history.
    So I am well-versed in Japanese history, Hokkaido’s local history, and the Ainu aborigine people’s culture.
    I can offer you an informative and enjoyable tour with a polite and hospitable atmosphere.
    I like to interact and communicate with foreign people and introduce my guests to Japan’s beautiful scenery, wonderful culture,
    and best food. I assure you that I will welcome you with my best hospitality and make every effort to make your tour a good memory.

    Request Booking

    May 22, 2026
    Leanne S
    Tripadvisor review: Hakodate 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Cruise port must
    Akira was our tour guide and was great.…

    May 7, 2026
    Narayanan_V
    Viator review: Otaru 6hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Akira san is a wonderful…
    Akira san is a wonderful guide. Very…

    May 1, 2026
    Maria R
    Tripadvisor review: Hakodate 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best of Hakodate
    Akira was a very knowledgeable guide who showed…

    Feb 18, 2026
    Danielle_S
    An insider’s tour of Otaru
    Viator review: Otaru 6hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    My guide Akira was knowledgeable, kind, patient,…

  • Hokkaido: Hakodate Morning Market & Goryokaku Park

    Hokkaido: Hakodate Morning Market & Goryokaku Park

    Hakodate Shore Excursion: Custom Car Tour, Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:55
    • 10:15 Hakodate Morning Market　
    • 10:45 Mount Hakodate　
    • 11:30 Motomachi District (Church Group, Former Hakodate Public Hall, etc.)　
    • 12:50 Bay Area　
    • 14:10 Goryokaku Park (Goryokaku Tower, Magistrate's Office)
    • 15:55 Finish at Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden

    What Is a Private Car Tour of Hakodate Like? A Licensed Guide's Report At the guests' request, the tour started one hour earlier than usual. The weather was excellent, allowing for comfortable sightseeing at every spot. One of the guests seemed interested in filming videos and recorded footage as well as spoken comments at many locations. Since the road leading to the summit of Mount Hakodate opened this week, we drove to the summit by car instead of taking the ropeway, and the scenery along the way was superb, making the most of the advantages of a tour with a vehicle. Although the cherry blossom season arrived earlier than usual this year, the tour took place two days before the official blooming announcement. We were able to see cherry blossoms in part, but in a sense it was slightly unfortunate timing. On the other hand, during full bloom, long lines are expected especially for entry to Goryokaku Tower, so it could also be said that we came at a good time.

    Click here for more details: Hakodate Shore Excursion: Custom Car Tour, Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Tom

    I was born and raised in Hokkaido and have been a resident of Sapporo for over 30 years. I have been actively involved in guiding tourists around the scenic spots of Hokkaido, primarily focusing on Sapporo. Even before becoming a licensed interpreter guide, I engaged in volunteer activities to assist and guide foreigners, providing me with valuable opportunities to delve into the rich culture and history of Hokkaido.
    Hokkaido is renowned for its exceptional culinary scene, and I am well-versed in gourmet information. I believe I can offer an excellent experience by guiding individuals through the highly acclaimed food experiences that Hokkaido has to offer.

    Request Booking

    Aug 15, 2026
    I654RPsandib
    Great experience
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We thoroughly enjoyed our 6 hours touring Sapporo with…

    Apr 22, 2026
    Agent PT A
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Super Sapporo in April with Tom.
    Tom was kind…

    Feb 10, 2026
    Alan_C
    Very enjoyable and well…
    Viator review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Very enjoyable and well worth it. Our…

    Sep 24, 2025
    saratW9816BN
    Tour up to the Moiwa mountain and lots more
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We’ve had…