Category: Uncategorized

  • Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hotel the Leben Osaka
    • 10:30~11:15 Osaka Castle Park, Naniwa-no-miya Ruins Park
    • 11:10~12:00 Shitennoji Honbo Garden, Shitennoji Kondo
    • 12:15~13:15 Isshinji Temple, Shinsekai
    • 13:30~14:30 Namba Yasaka Shrine, Hozenji Yokocho, ending at Dotonbori.

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Day Tour of Osaka? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were friends visiting Japan for the first time from North America, arriving in Osaka the previous day after traveling through Tokyo and Kyoto. The weather had not been very good over the past week and temperatures had fluctuated, but today was clear and warm, so we were able to set off on the tour in high spirits. Although much of the cherry blossom had fallen due to the previous day's rain and strong winds, the falling petals at Osaka Castle Park and the Shitennoji Honbo Garden created a magical scene, and the guests enjoyed the Japanese spring and took many photos. In Shinsekai, they enjoyed the unique downtown Osaka atmosphere with the Billiken statue and street stalls, taking a break and having a meal while taking many photos. At Namba Yasaka Shrine, they were impressed by the lion-shaped hall and took many photos as well. I guided them all the way to Dotonbori, where the tour concluded.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNagahoribashi～Tanimachi 4-chome190JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 3SubwayDobutsuen-mae～Osaka Namba190JPY
    Total570JPY

    Tour Report by shige

    Hello, This is Shige. I was born and brought up in Osaka. I have been enjoying working as a tour guide since 2016 after retired from a manufacturing company in which I worked at the overseas department. So I experienced a lot of business with customers in Europe, Asia, Australia, and USA where my three years of living and working at the subsidiary company with my family was the most amazing experience of my life. Well, Japan has a long history including ancient remains, historic buildings and cultures at each period over 2000 years. I hope you will enjoy exploring Japan in this tour. I look forward to seeing you soon.
    Shige.

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    May 23, 2026
    Sarajean_s
    Viator review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful way to get acquainted with Kyoto
    Shige was a…

    May 21, 2026
    828vickeyb
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Shige is a great tour guide for Kyoto
    Shige was an excellent…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Mariana_M
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking Tour with Shige
    Shige was an amazing tour guide and companion…

    Jul 4, 2025
    Marcus_C
    Osaka tour 2025
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful tour around Osaka. Our guide…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Port Terminal & Maiko

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Port Terminal & Maiko

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ Port Terminal
    • 9:05-9:10 Port Terminal→Sannomiya Port Liner 210 yen
    • 9:20-9:41 Sannomiya→Maiko JR 320 yen
    • 10:00-10:50 Sightseeing at Maiko Park & Maiko Marine Promenade
    • 11:10-11:29 Maiko→Kobe JR 320 yen
    • 11:40- Stroll around Harborland & Meriken Park
    • 12:40 Disband @ KOBE BEEF RED ONE

    What Can You See on a Private Day Tour from a Cruise Ship to Kobe and the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. After disembarking from the cruise ship, we first headed to the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. The weather was wonderful, and they enjoyed the spectacular views at Maiko Park and the sea-level promenade. I had proudly explained that Japan's "trains are punctual," but the train was delayed both on the way there and on the way back, so with a bit of self-deprecating humor we made our way to Kobe Station. We walked from Harborland to Meriken Park. Finally, at the earthquake memorial facility, I explained about the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake. After that, we headed to Nankinmachi, where I guided them to the restaurant I had reserved, KOBE BEEF RED ONE, and we said our goodbyes.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainPort Terminal～Sannomiya (Kobe New Transit)210JPY
    Section 2TrainSannomiya～Maiko320JPY
    Section 3TrainMaiko～Kobe (Hyogo Prefecture)320JPY
    Total850JPY

    Tour Report by AndyMurao

    Hello! I am Andy Murao. I love this job as I can visit various destinations with the people from all over the world. I am always thinking that I could help you know more about Japan and understand the attractiveness of Japan.

    I would like to provide a tour in accordance with your request and preference. Please let me know what you want to see, eat, experience, etc. and then I will propose a schedule based on them.

    There is one point to note. I like walking very much, so I might be a guide who forces you to take long walks.

    I look forward to attending you in Japan.

    Best regards,

    Andy Murao

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    Sep 20, 2026
    Bobby_B
    A great Kyoto guide.
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Andy was very nice and…

    Jul 13, 2026
    webstere2025
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent
    Andy(Atsushi) was great and communicated with us beforehand about our…

    Jun 21, 2026
    Catherine_D
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in Osaka
    Andy was great . On time and patience…

    Jun 6, 2026
    eyeessess
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour!
    Andy Murao was an amazing and wonderful tour guide.…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kyoto Imperial Palace & Shinsen-en

    Kyoto in One Day: Kyoto Imperial Palace & Shinsen-en

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30　Meet @ Hotel
    • 9:00-10:30 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 11:00-11:45 Kinkaku-ji
    • 12:30 – 14:00 Nijo Castle
    • 14:30　Shinsen-en
    • 15:00　Disband @ JR Nijo Station

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Kinkaku-ji, and Nijo Castle The guests were two groups from Oceania, all around the same age. It seemed that some of the guests were friends with each other. One of them had a strong accent, and at first there were moments when I had difficulty understanding what was being said. When we first boarded the subway, one of the guests praised me for having "good core strength" because I was standing without holding onto a strap. It was the first time anyone had said such a thing to me, so I was quite surprised. Then we headed to the Kyoto Imperial Palace. The guests were overwhelmed by its vast size, and once inside, they were captivated by the beautiful architecture and gardens. One of the guests, who seemed to have a passion for photography, carried a serious camera and took photos freely. At the rest area, when I introduced a list of annual court events, they were very surprised by how many there were. Also, upon exiting the Gishumon Gate, we spotted two retro-style fire engines (one red and one white) marked "Imperial Palace Police." I had never seen them before myself, so when I told everyone how rare they were, the guests happily took photos. At Kinkaku-ji, everyone was overwhelmed by the crowds. In advance, since there is nowhere to eat around our next destination near Nijo Castle, I had suggested having lunch near Kinkaku-ji. We tried to enter a ramen shop on Nishioji Street, but they only accepted cash, and the guests did not have much cash on hand. The ramen shop two doors down had customers waiting outside, so we decided to head straight to Nijo Castle. After arriving in front of Nijo Castle, I reconfirmed whether they wanted to eat around the area, and since they did not, we decided to tour the castle. The guests were especially impressed by the intricate carvings of the Karamon Gate. Then I guided them through the Ninomaru Palace. They seemed very satisfied with the Ninomaru Palace, and upon exiting, I received the kind words, "You taught us so much, it was really helpful." We then continued through the Ninomaru Garden and the Honmaru Palace, making a full loop of the castle grounds. We were then supposed to move to Shinsen-en, but since some of the guests had skipped lunch and wanted something to eat, I suggested buying something from a stall within the grounds or eating at a food court, but nothing seemed to appeal to them, so we left Nijo Castle promptly. One of the groups decided not to stop at Shinsen-en and to return to their hotel by subway on their own, so we said goodbye. I went to Shinsen-en with the remaining group, and although it is small, they enjoyed the beautiful, picturesque scenery. When I showed them a photo I had taken the previous week next to a small statue of Benten, one of the guests wanted to take a photo in the same spot, and did so with the large camera they had brought. I too am fond of the red Hojo Bridge, and the guests liked it as well, requesting a photo of two of them standing there together. Then we walked to Nijo Station, and since I was heading toward the Saga-Arashiyama area, I explained that they should take the train on the opposite side, and we said goodbye. The photo was taken in front of a rare variety of cherry blossom that was in bloom at the Kyoto Imperial Palace.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Imadegawa260JPY
    Section 2BusKarasuma Imadegawa (Imadegawa Subway Station)／Kyoto City Bus～Kinkakuji-michi／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3BusKinkakuji-michi／Kyoto City Bus～Nijojo-mae230JPY
    Total720JPY

    Tour Report by Satoko

    I am a 54-year-old woman, living in Kyoto for nearly 40 years. I got the license in 2001. Since then, I worked as an interpreter or a translator in several companies, secretary at universities, and now work for a company on weekdays at the international dept.I do guiding job only weekend now. I started full swing guiding career after COVID-19 pandemic. I have gotten good review from many of my guests. I love my hometown, Kyoto which has a lot of interesting and historical sites to see. Particularly, I am native to Arashiyama which is famous for bamboo forest. So, I know a lot of places where you can relax yourself around this area. Other than that, Kyoto has many attractive sites which surely interest you.Also, I like meeting many people from different cultural background. I am very happy if I learn about your culture as well. Let’s enjoy exploring around Kyoto!

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    May 18, 2026
    WENDY_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent day out
    The trip was really well planned and organised, it…

    Sep 21, 2025
    joshsJ915FC
    Super tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Really wonderful tour of markets and geisha district.…

    Jun 16, 2025
    Chanyl C
    Highly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My husband and I really enjoyed the Kyoto tour.…

    May 18, 2025
    Steve J
    A relaxing, enjoyable visit to Arashiyama.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Satori was very kind and…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Hotel pickup
    • 10:00 Walk to the Peace Memorial Museum
    • 11:00 Peace Memorial Park, visit various monuments
    • 12:20 Head to Miyajima via the World Heritage Sea Route
    • 13:05 Arrive at Miyajima
    • 13:30 Lunch
    • 14:30 Itsukushima Shrine, other historical buildings, Omotesando shopping street
    • 17:00 World Heritage Sea Route Motoyasu Pier
    • 17:30 Tour ends in front of the dinner venue

    Title: What's a Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. Since the Peace Memorial Museum has recently been extremely crowded, we decided to visit the museum first thing in the morning and then take our time exploring the various monuments in the Peace Memorial Park. In an email after we parted, the guests mentioned that they were especially deeply moved by the museum and the Children's Peace Monument. We then took the World Heritage Sea Route to Miyajima, where the guests seemed soothed by the gentle deer and enjoyed taking many photographs.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1FerryPeace Park Motoyasu Pier～Miyajima Port2,500JPY
    Total2,500JPY

    Tour Report by Hiroshi

    Welcome to Hiroshima.
    My name is Hiroshi Tsuji, a licensed guide based in Hiroshima and Miyajima. My family has been connected to Miyajima for more than 300 years, and I am pleased to share the history, culture, and daily life of this unique island with visitors from around the world. Please feel free to call me Hiroshi.
    With a background in outdoor sports—including rock climbing, scuba diving, and long-distance triathlons—I have completed several Ironman races abroad. I studied in Kyoto and later worked in management at a publicly listed company, which allowed me to live in many different regions of Japan and develop a deeper understanding of the country’s diverse culture and history.
    In Hiroshima, I guide guests through the Peace Memorial Park, including the Atomic Bomb Dome, and share perspectives on the history of Hiroshima and modern Japan.
    In Miyajima, I introduce Itsukushima Shrine, Mount Misen, the island’s beautiful scenery, and its local cuisine. As someone whose family has been connected to Miyajima for generations, I also enjoy sharing local insights and experiences that offer a more personal connection to the island’s culture and way of life.
    I look forward to welcoming you to Hiroshima and Miyajima.
    Hiroshi

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    Sep 25, 2026
    philiprA2432ZA
    Hiroshima & Miyajima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Our guide Hiroshi picked us up…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Sygeplejersken78
    The best guide – Thank you 🙏🇯🇵🇩🇰
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    We had…

    Sep 21, 2026
    Pioneer19650761736
    You Won’t Regret Booking with Hiroshi
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had the most amazing…

    Sep 11, 2026
    stephanie782022
    Fantastic tour experience
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had such a fantastic day with Hiroshi,…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Arashiyama & Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto in One Day: Arashiyama & Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet (@Kyoto Station Shinkansen Platform)
    • 10:30-11:10 Travel (Subway; Kyoto Station→Karasuma Shijo, Hankyu Train; Karasuma→Arashiyama)
    • 11:10-12:40 Arashiyama Stroll (Togetsukyo Bridge, Tenryu-ji Garden [Sogenchi Garden, Hyakkaen], Bamboo Grove, Nonomiya Shrine)
    • 12:40-13:30 Lunch (CafeDining Sera/near Shakado)
    • 13:30-14:00 Travel (Keifuku Train; Arashiyama→Ryoan-ji)
    • 14:00-14:50 Ryoan-ji Visit
    • 14:50-15:10 Travel (City Bus; Ryoan-ji-mae→Kinkaku-ji-michi)
    • 15:10-16:00 Kinkaku-ji Visit
    • 16:00-16:30 Travel (City Bus; Kinkaku-ji-michi→Imadegawa, Subway; Imadegawa→Kyoto Station)
    • 16:30 Tour End We said goodbye to the guests in front of the JR ticket gate at Kyoto Station

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Cruise Excursion Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama, Ryoan-ji, and Kinkaku-ji The guest was a cruise ship visitor from North America. The guest had originally been scheduled to join with the group, but on the day of the tour, the guest ended up participating alone. Although the meeting was arranged for 11:00 at Kyoto Station, information came in that the guest would arrive 30 minutes early, so we started the tour 30 minutes ahead of schedule. I took the guest to Arashiyama, Ryoan-ji, and Kinkaku-ji. The weather felt like early summer, warm enough to break a sweat, and some cherry blossoms still remained here and there. As it was the April sightseeing season and also a weekend holiday, there were large crowds, and all of the sites we visited were congested. The guest said the garden of Tenryu-ji and the rock garden of Ryoan-ji were wonderful, but the crowds were just as had been heard about in advance. In addition, the city buses used for getting around were extremely packed, and I believe this made the experience uncomfortable. It might have been better to recommend traveling by taxi.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto～Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)220JPY
    Section 2TrainKarasuma～Arashiyama (Hankyu Line)240JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)～Ryoan-ji250JPY
    Section 4TrainRyoan-ji-mae/Kyoto Municipal Bus～Kinkaku-ji-michi/Kyoto Municipal Bus230JPY
    Section 5BusKinkaku-ji-michi/Kyoto Municipal Bus～Imadegawa230JPY
    Section 6SubwayImadegawa～Kyoto260JPY
    Total1,430JPY

    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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    Aug 4, 2026
    Elie_S
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Wonderful and informative walking tour with Michi
    We had a lovely…

    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.…

  • Kyoto: Hilton Garden Inn Kyoto Shijo Karasuma & Gion Tatsumi Bridge

    Kyoto: Hilton Garden Inn Kyoto Shijo Karasuma & Gion Tatsumi Bridge

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Hilton Garden Inn Kyoto Shijo Karasuma
    • 8:45 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 10:50 Nara Park
    • 11:20 Todai-ji Great Buddha Hall
    • 13:00 Lunch at Higashimuki Shopping Street
    • 14:45 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 16:00 Gion Tatsumi Bridge
    • 16:30 Hilton Garden Inn Kyoto Shijo Karasuma

    What's a Private Day Tour of Kyoto and Nara Like in the Rain? A Licensed Guide's Report Today, as with yesterday, I guided a group visiting from Oceania. Unfortunately, it was a rainy day, with heavy rain at times. Since Kiyomizu-dera Temple had only light rain first thing in the morning, there were fewer people and the guests enjoyed it. Afterward, the rain became quite heavy at Nara Park, but when it eased up a little, they enjoyed feeding the deer outside. They were amazed by the scale of the Great Buddha Hall at Todai-ji Temple. At Higashimuki Shopping Street, they enjoyed lunch and shopping. I had been worried about the crowds at Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, but perhaps because of the rain, there were relatively few people, which was fortunate. Tatsumi Bridge was as crowded as ever, but I believe the guests enjoyed it.

    Click here for more details: Nara Day Trip from Kyoto by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Kaeko

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①　08:00　Meet at Gion Fukuzumi
    • ②　08:05　About today's itinerary and the history of Kyoto
    • ③　09:00　Stroll through Gion and Shinbashi (explanation about Gion and teahouses)
    • ④　10:00　Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • ⑤　12:00　Depart from JR Inari Station
    • ⑥　12:20　Explanation about Arashiyama at JR Saga-Arashiyama Station
    • ⑦　12:35　Lunch break (standing meal)
    • ⑧　12:50　Stroll through the bamboo grove
    • ⑨　13:20　Stroll through Tenryu-ji Temple garden
    • ⑩　14:15　Disperse in front of Tenryu-ji Temple

    What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like with a Licensed Guide? A Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. It was their first time in Japan. They spent about four days in Tokyo and one day in Kyoto, and were planning one day in Osaka the next day before returning to Tokyo and heading home. They were a lively and delightful group. From early in the morning at the Hotel, they listened to my explanations with great interest and enjoyment. One of the guests had studied a little Japanese and had some knowledge of Japanese history, which made it easy to talk with them. They even knew the term "Meiji Restoration" and were explaining it to the rest of the group, though a little off the mark, so I would offer a corrected explanation. They also knew a bit about feng shui and onmyodo (yin-yang cosmology), but not quite enough, so I would add to what they said, and in this way we happily went over our schedule from the morning. One of the guests taught me that people who study Japanese find the pronunciation of "dou itashimashite" difficult, so they remember it as "Don't touch my mustache." Many people may already know this, but I did not, and I burst out laughing when I heard it while walking through the thousand torii gates of Fushimi Inari. I thought it was quite clever. Come to think of it, there seem to be similar tricks going from Japanese to English as well. In the end, we spent the whole day like this and unfortunately did not make it to the Philosopher's Path as planned, but the guests were quite talkative themselves, so they understood the atmosphere and we parted happily. Today too, we said goodbye with my favorite word, "ookini." Don't touch my mustache!

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

    Tour Report by Kazu

    Hello, this is Kazu Akiyama, your tour guide. Nice to meet you and welcome to Japan. Thank you for joining me on the tour. Now I am a retired salaried worker, living in Osaka. I have been very much interested in not only learning Japanese history, culture, religion myself, but also talking about them (sometimes going off topics) in English with tourists from all over the world as well. I am so excited being with you as your guide on coming day! I am very much looking forward to you enjoying with me visiting the must-see places and some of the hidden gems. See you soon. Thank you – Kazu Akiyama

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    Jul 29, 2026
    James_G
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great guide and very…
    Great guide and very knowledgeable.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    peterhR6472GA
    Kyoto highlights with Kazu.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with Kazu…

    Jul 12, 2026
    cgalvez73
    Fantastic tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our guide in Kyoto was Kazu.…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Winni_H
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Highly recommended when in Kyoto
    Our tour guide…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Ninna-ji Temple & Randen Arashiyama

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Ninna-ji Temple & Randen Arashiyama

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 　Hotel
    • 9:40　Ninna-ji Temple (Omuro)
    • 11:30 Randen Arashiyama
    • 　　 Tenryu-ji Temple Garden
    • 　　　Bamboo Grove
    • 13:00　Disband at Arashiyama. Returned by taxi.

    Title: What Is a Private Cherry Blossom Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Ninna-ji and Arashiyama The guests were a group from North America. Since the cherry blossoms at Ninna-ji Temple were in full bloom, I suggested we visit. There were so many people that the bus on the way was extremely crowded, and the guests had to endure about 30 minutes of it. I reflected that my planning had been a bit too optimistic on this point. Still, the guests told me that the temple buildings, the garden, and the cherry blossoms at Ninna-ji were lovely. At Arashiyama Station, some of the guests enjoyed chicken and other food. It was a somewhat warm day.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusShijo Horikawa / Kyoto City Bus～Omuro Ninna-ji / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2TrainOmuro Ninna-ji～Arashiyama (Keifuku Line)250JPY
    Total480JPY

    Tour Report by Mimmy

    Bye bye smart phone!! Let’s enjoy Japan without bothering to check up your phone all the time with not AI but a local guide like me. Hi, my name is Mimmy. You may think this sounds like a kitten’s name.
    I use this nickname because it sounds cute and easy to remember. However,
    I actually look rounded, a middle aged woman more like a yellow character of M&Mchocolate, which reminds you of my name easily when you see me.
    I was born in Osaka, went to school in Kobe, went to work in Kyoto and married but still live in Osaka. I am a local, native Osakan. My 3 children are all grown up and live separately except one son. Now I live with one son and a husband in suburbs of the Osaka city.
    I like travelling, walking around the town and anything new.
    I got my guide license in 2017 and started guiding after that. I wasn’t able to work during Covid period but start guiding in 2022 again. I guide Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Kobe and have experienced more than100 tours including bus tours.
    I would like to tell you about the itineraries I usually have in each area.
    In Osaka, we usually go to Osaka castle, Shinsekai and Dotonbori Namba area.
    I think most important part you should see is Dotonbori Namba in Osaka.
    This place is vibrant , energetic, full of 3D signs and different from any other place in Japan.
    In Kyoto, we cannot see all famous sightseeing spots in one day.
    It will be better to visit each area respectively. I recommend guests who come to Kyoto first time to visit East area, Kiyomizu Temple>Sannenzaka>Ninenzaka>Ishibeikouji>Yasaka shrine> Gion area. This area has an atmosphere of traditional old Kyoto. The most Kyoto like places which suit Kimono. You can rent Kimono in a lot of places around here.
    The second place I recommend you is West area: Golden temple and Arashiyama area where Bamboo forest , Tenryuji temple, mountains and a river. There are several nice gardens in this area. If you want to enjoy the nature quietly, you
    should come here when it is not crowded (Winter is the most quiet)
    In Nara which used to be a capital even older than Kyoto, we visit Todaiji Temple where a huge Buddha is sitting inside of one of the largest wooden hall and you can play with deer everywhere in Nara. Naramachi: a small town in this area is a local place where small interesting shops are.
    In Kobe, a port city, you can visit Japanese Sake breweries, Herb garden and the top of Mt.Rokko for viewing Kobe city. A small China town is there, too.

    Now I bet you want to leave home to explore somewhere else you do not know.
    Not only going to somewhere else, we can help you to do several experiences: making tea, making Japanese sweet, making Takoyaki(food), wearing Kimono, making food samples, attending a tea ceremony, throwing Shriken like Ninja, Using bow and arrow like Samurai, , , ,
    I am very happy indeed if I can help you find things impressive enough and have once in a life time experience during our tour.
    I am looking forward to sharing a good time with you.

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    Mar 24, 2025
    Jennie_N
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  • Tokyo: Cerulean Tower Tokyu Shibuya & Kanmangafuchi Abyss

    Tokyo: Cerulean Tower Tokyu Shibuya & Kanmangafuchi Abyss

    Nikko Day Trip from Tokyo by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:00 Meeting place: Cerulean Tower Tokyu Shibuya
    • 7:00 Depart Cerulean Tower Tokyu Shibuya
    • (Hired car)
    • 9:30 Arrive at Lake Chuzenji
    • Lake Chuzenji Café: Break
    • 10:00 Depart Lake Chuzenji
    • (Hired car)
    • 10:30 Arrive at Kegon Falls
    • Kegon Falls
    • 11:45 Depart Kegon Falls
    • (Hired car)
    • 12:30 Nikko city center Futarasan Shrine
    • Nikko Toshogu Shrine
    • Rinnoji Temple
    • 13:00 Depart Rinnoji Temple
    • (Hired car)
    • Arrive at Shinkyo Bridge
    • Shinkyo Bridge Shinkyo Bridge
    • Lunch: Nikko Asaya
    • 13:45 Depart Shinkyo Bridge
    • (Hired car)
    • 14:00 Kanmangafuchi Abyss
    • Kanmangafuchi Abyss Kanmangafuchi Abyss
    • 14:30 Depart Kanmangafuchi Abyss
    • 17:00 Arrive at Cerulean Tower Tokyu Shibuya
    • Disband: Cerulean Tower Tokyu Shibuya

    Title: What Is a Private Day Trip from Tokyo to Nikko Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. Both worked in fields related to healthcare, and both were very interested in Japanese history and culture. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led this private one-day tour of Nikko. Two weeks earlier, they had arrived in Japan and joined a group tour of about 20 people, visiting various parts of the country (Osaka, Kyoto, Kanazawa, Sendai, Matsushima, Oirase Gorge, and others). After that, on a friend's recommendation, they said they really wanted to visit Nikko, which led to today's trip. They plan to return home by air from Haneda tomorrow. It was a pleasant tour under clear, comfortable weather. We departed from a hotel in Shibuya. In the car, I explained topics such as "the origins and history of Nikko," "Japan's Edo period, including the Edo period and Tokugawa Ieyasu," and "the five highways and the sankin-kotai system of alternate attendance." We passed through the Irohazaka winding road and first headed to Lake Chuzenji. We took a short break at a cafe near the entrance (there was a request for a light bite since they had not had breakfast at the hotel). I explained that Nikko has been a summer retreat both in the past and today. We moved on to Kegon Falls. There were few tourists around, and the volume of water flowing down was extremely low, so it lacked its usual power. One of the guests took many photos. From there, we went into the city of Nikko. First, we visited Futarasan Shrine, where I again explained the origins and history of Nikko. We walked to Toshogu Shrine. Despite it being a weekday, this area was quite crowded with group visitors from abroad and students on school trips. We toured the Yomeimon Gate, the main hall, the crying dragon, and other sights in turn. The "three wise monkeys" and the "sleeping cat" seemed to be favorites, and the guests took their time photographing them. They mentioned they had heard about the "three wise monkeys" beforehand, and had also heard about the "sleeping cat" beforehand. They purchased a large number of amulets as gifts for their grandchildren. We walked around Rinnoji Temple. A goma fire ritual was being performed, and we observed it for a while. I explained topics such as "Buddhism" and "Buddhism and Shinto." At Rinnoji, they admired the Japanese garden and took photos at a leisurely pace. From there, they wanted lunch, so we went to a restaurant in front of the Shinkyo Bridge. They enjoyed soba and tempura. We moved to the Shinkyo Bridge and took photos here and there at a relaxed pace. From there, we went to Kanmangafuchi Abyss and strolled slowly. There were many questions about the Jizo statues. On the way back, in the car there were many questions about "the succession of shoguns from the Kamakura period" and "Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and others." There were also comments and questions such as: "Everywhere in Japan, the towns are clean and there is no litter." "The public restrooms are clean." "There are no trash cans on the streets. Why?" "Everyone is quiet on the trains." We saw them off at their hotel and parted ways.

    Click here for more details: Nikko Day Trip from Tokyo by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Masa

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

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    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
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  • 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

    • 1. 09:50 Meet up @ Hotel Tokyo
    • 2. 10:00 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 10:35 Visit @ Hanazono Shrine, Shinjuku Golden Gai
    • 4. 11:10 Travel: Subway
    • 5. 11:20 Visit @ Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building North Observatory
    • 6. 11:50 Travel: Subway, Train
    • 7. 12:15 Visit @ Shibuya Scramble Crossing, MAGNET by SHIBUYA 109
    • 8. 13:00 Travel: Subway
    • 9. 13:35 Visit @ Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, Outer Market
    • 10. 14:10 Lunch @ Tsukiji Sushi Sei Shinkan
    • 11. 14:50 Travel: Subway
    • 12. 15:30 Visit @ Kappabashi Kitchen Town
    • 13. 15:50 Travel: Subway
    • 14. 16:15 Disband @ Hotel Tokyo

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. We set off after they downloaded Mobile Suica at their hotel. The guests enjoyed drinking, so I first took them to Shinjuku to show them Golden Gai and Omoide Yokocho. Since there did not seem to be enough time to visit Nezu, which had been among their requested spots, we also stopped by Hanazono Shrine here. After that, I took them to two observation decks—the north observatory of the Metropolitan Government Building and MAGNET in Shibuya—though the occasionally heavy rain was a bit disappointing. At lunch, preferences differed within the group, as some liked nigiri sushi while others were not fond of raw fish, so at the sushi restaurant I arranged for steamed shrimp, cucumber rolls, and similar items to be enjoyed. I had originally planned to part ways at Kappabashi Kitchen Town, but on this day they decided to check the location of the shops and return another day, so I kept the tour there brief, saw the guests back to their hotel, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGinza～Shinjuku-sanchome210JPY
    Section 2SubwayShinjuku West Exit～Tochomae180JPY
    Section 3SubwayTochomae～Yoyogi180JPY
    Section 4TrainYoyogi～Shibuya160JPY
    Section 5SubwayShibuya～Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 6SubwayTsukiji～Tawaramachi (Tokyo)210JPY
    Section 7SubwayTawaramachi (Tokyo)～Ginza210JPY
    Total1,360JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

    Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
    I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
    I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
    One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
    Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
    I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

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    Sep 29, 2026
    Y9791IZnicks
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