Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto: Gion Hayakawa

    Kyoto: Gion Hayakawa

    Gion Tour & Maiko or Geisha Dinner with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 17:00 Hotel Emion Kyoto
    • 16:30. Gion Hayakawa
    • 20:45 End

    What Is a Private Kyoto Maiko Dinner Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, and since it was a very cold day, they preferred to travel by taxi. As we could not find a six-seater taxi, we went by train and arrived just in time at 6:25 pm, where the proprietress welcomed us. The guests were satisfied with the meal and told me that although they had tried many foods since arriving in Japan, they had come to love Japanese cuisine even more. They watched the maiko's dance with great interest and recorded a video, kindly assuring me that they would not post it online. They also enjoyed playing games with the maiko. At first there was quite a VIP atmosphere, but once we started talking, they were very approachable and easy to converse with, and we were able to spend a truly enjoyable time together.

    Click here for more details: Gion Tour & Maiko or Geisha Dinner with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainUmekoji-Kyotonishi～Kyoto150JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto～Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)220JPY
    Section 3TrainKarasuma～Kyoto-kawaramachi170JPY
    Total540JPY

    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…

  • Hyogo in One Day: Kobe Port Terminal & Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Hyogo in One Day: Kobe Port Terminal & Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Kobe: Private Car Tour, Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:40 Kobe Port Terminal
    • 11:10 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 12:10 (departure)
    • 12:30 Nijo Castle
    • 13:20 (departure)
    • 13:50 Arashiyama
    • (lunch)
    • 14:40 Tenryu-ji Temple
    • 15:00 Bamboo Grove
    • 15:20 (departure)
    • 15:50 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 16:40 (departure)
    • 18:00 Kobe Port Terminal

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Before a Cruise Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guides led a private one-day tour of Kyoto for guests visiting from North America. In the taxi, the guests had a lively conversation about topics such as Kobe beef, sports, sightseeing in Tokyo, and more. At the first stop, Fushimi Inari Taisha, there was some light rain, but fortunately the rain stopped by the time we reached Nijo Castle and continued to hold off afterward. For lunch, the guests ordered tempura udon and a tempura rice bowl. We admired the beautiful flowers in bloom at Tenryu-ji Temple. The driver mentioned that leaving Kinkaku-ji at 17:00 could lead to traffic congestion and a late return, so he requested that we depart by 16:40 at the latest. I explained the possibility of traffic congestion to the guests, and they kindly agreed. In the end, there was no congestion at all, we were able to drive smoothly along the expressway, and we arrived at the port terminal by 18:00.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto in 1 Day from Kobe: Private Car Tour, Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by HIDEYOSHI

    Hello, I’m HIDEo YOSHIda. Please call me HIDEYOSHI, the same name as a famous shogun who unified Japan for the first time in 1590.
    I was born in Kobe, worked in Osaka for nearly 40 years. I would like to introduce you Kansai region, including Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara and Wakayama.
    In Kyoto, I can guide you Nijojo Castle, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kinkakuji Tempe (Golden Pavilion), Gion area, and Fushimi Inari Taisha.
    In Osaka, I’ll show you Osaka Castle, Shinsekai, Dotonbori, and Umeda Sky biilding. We have locall foods such as Kushikatau, Okonomiyaki and Takoyaki.
    In Kobe, I’ll take you to former foreign residential area, Sannomiya Shopping Street, Chinese Market, and Arima Onsen.
    In Nara, I’ll guide you Todaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, Kasuga Taisha, and Yakushiji Temple.
    In Wakayama, I take you to Koyasan, the center of Esoteric Buddhism.
    I enjoy guiding foreign tourists.
    I can show you Japanese history, especially samurai period, and Shinto and Buddhism.
    I’ve been looking forward to guiding you !!

    Request Booking

    Jun 1, 2026
    Stephan_F
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great overview of the…
    Great overview of the highlights of Kyoto with…

    May 28, 2025
    terrym866
    Kyoto guided tour was as promised. Very knowledgeable guide and driver .
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full Day Tour from Kobe with…

    Oct 17, 2024
    katiya2017
    Walking visit in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Government-Licensed Guide
    We booked a full day walking…

    Sep 29, 2024
    Roy_M
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a very good private tour with…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Peace Memorial Museum

    Hiroshima in One Day: Peace Memorial Museum

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

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Hotel lobby meet
    • 8:10 Peace Memorial Museum
    • 9:55 Peace Park Memorial Monument, Atomic Bomb Dome
    • 10:55-11:40 Travel to Miyajima, World Heritage Sea Route
    • 11:45-12:40 Okonomiyaki lunch
    • 12:40-14:10 Miyajima sightseeing, Itsukushima Shrine
    • 14:25-15:20 Travel to Hiroshima Station, Ferry, JR
    • 15:30-16:15 Shukkeien Garden stroll, disband at Shukkeien Garden

    Title: What Is a Full-Day Private Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America who had been longtime friends. Since we started at 8:00, we were able to enter the Peace Memorial Museum during the early-morning reserved time slot, and the guests took their time viewing the exhibits in a quiet, calm atmosphere. They told me they had come to Hiroshima because they wanted to learn about the city's history and to see how Hiroshima has moved forward toward peace, which I found very meaningful. For lunch, the guests enjoyed okonomiyaki and oysters on Miyajima. Afterward, I guided them to Itsukushima Shrine at high tide. As one of the guests was tired and had some pain in their foot, we all sat down to rest, and once they felt better, we returned to Hiroshima City. I then guided them to Shukkeien Garden. They told me it was their favorite garden, which made me very happy.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherPeace Park Motoyasu Pier～Miyajima1,200JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi～Hiroshima420JPY
    Total1,620JPY

    Tour Report by Naomi

    Hello, and thank you very much for choosing Hiroshima for your visit!
    My name is Naomi Ueno, and I am a licensed English-speaking guide based in Hiroshima. I was born and raised here. I now live in the northern part of Hiroshima City with my husband, as my children have become independent and married. Please leave everything about Hiroshima to me—I’ll be happy to show you my hometown and share its stories, culture, and spirit with you.
    Hiroshima has two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Atomic Bomb Dome in Peace Memorial Park and the scenic Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island. Both are very impressive and well worth visiting. The city also has many other wonderful places to explore, and Hiroshima is known for its delicious local foods. Our most famous specialty is “okonomiyaki,” often described as a savory Japanese-style pancake or pizza. I hope you will enjoy Hiroshima—its beautiful places, nature, and flavors.
    I became a licensed Hiroshima Prefectural Interpreter Guide in 2022 and passed the National Government Licensed Guide Exam in 2023. I began working professionally as a guide afew years ago. Before that, I worked for many years as an English teacher at junior and senior high schools. I truly enjoy communicating with people and explaining things in a clear and easy-to-understand way. I still teach part-time twice a week at a local school, which allows me to stay active in education and continue connecting with younger generations.
    My friends and fellow guides often tell me that I have a friendly personality and can connect easily with guests. I love hearing about their countries, families, and travel experiences. Having gone through various stages in life—career, parenting, and family events—I find it natural to understand and relate to people from different backgrounds.
    Traveling has always been one of my greatest passions. I enjoy exploring new destinations both in Japan and abroad, and I often share travel stories with guests that make tours lively and personal. Studying for the guide exams gave me a deeper appreciation for Japanese history, culture, and traditions, and I enjoy sharing these topics in a warm and engaging way.
    When I was a student, I studied in the United States, and have also traveled to several other countries. During those experiences, I received great kindness and hospitality from local people. Those memories inspired me to give something back by helping visitors enjoy their time in Japan.
    As a guide, I hope to create enjoyable, comfortable, and memorable experiences for each guest by offering warm hospitality and accurate information. Although I’m still a relatively new professional guide, I am passionate about this work. Let’s create your ideal trip together—a journey designed just for you. I look forward to meeting you and guiding you through Hiroshima.

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  • Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 09:00 Tour starts from the hotel
    • Travel by foot to Higashi Chaya District
    • AM 09:20 – 11:30 Stroll around Higashi Chaya District, visit Shima, Utasu Shrine, and Kinpaku Sakuda
    • AM 11:30-PM 12:10 Tea break
    • Travel by bus to Kenrokuen-shita
    • PM 12:40- 13:30 Visit Kenrokuen Garden
    • PM 13:30- 14:15 Visit Kanazawa Castle Park, Hishi Yagura, Hashizumemon Tsuzuki Yagura, and Gojukken Nagaya
    • Travel by foot to the Nagamachi Samurai District area, via Gyokusen-in and Oyama Shrine
    • PM 14:30-15:00 Nagamachi Samurai District area, visit Takada Family Residence and Ashigaru Museum Tour ends

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Kanazawa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. They travel abroad every year, and this was their first trip to Japan. Despite the cherry blossoms being in full bloom for spring, the tour took place under the worst conditions, with a high temperature of only 9 degrees and occasional rain. Nevertheless, we were able to visit all the planned locations and the guests enjoyed themselves. When the rain grew heavier partway through the tour, we took a tea break at a Japanese sweets shop serving fruit mochi in the Higashi Chaya District, and the guests appreciated being able to relax there. We ended the tour in the Nagamachi samurai district when time ran out.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHashiba-cho / Hokuriku Railroad Bus～Kenrokuen-shita・Kanazawa Castle / Hokuriku Railroad Bus220JPY
    Total220JPY

    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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    Sep 29, 2026
    matthewsY2654UC
    Highly recommended!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Yoshi is an exceptional guide where he took us…

    Sep 28, 2026
    751juergend
    Perfect day in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the perfect guide, very…

    Sep 27, 2026
    karen_f
    YOSHI san was incredible!
    Viator review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    YOSHI met us at our…

    Sep 19, 2026
    Plumb72
    A morning in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a fab tour with Yoshi…

  • Nagasaki Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagasaki Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagasaki Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • Peace Park (traveling on foot) → Hypocenter → Atomic Bomb Museum (by taxi) → (via the One-Legged Torii Gate) Inasayama Ropeway Station (round trip to Inasayama by ropeway) → (by taxi) Yume Town Mall → (by taxi) Yamada Denki

    Title: What Is a Private Nagasaki Walking and Sightseeing Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report We met at Peace Park, a meeting point that the guests had proposed in advance. The guests arrived a little later than scheduled, but since I had sent my photo beforehand, they recognized me right away and we were able to meet without any trouble. We walked while I explained Peace Park (the Peace Statue, monuments donated by various countries, the Fountain of Peace, and so on) and the Hypocenter Park, and then arrived at the Atomic Bomb Museum. The guests viewed the inside of the Atomic Bomb Museum on their own. After finishing at the Atomic Bomb Museum, we took a taxi that was parked in front of the building, passing by the One-Legged Torii Gate on the way to the Mount Inasa ropeway station, and took the ropeway up and down Mount Inasa. We were blessed with good weather and enjoyed a wonderful view. The guests were interested in learning where the hypocenter was located. Before boarding the descending ropeway, I called the taxi we had used earlier to come pick us up, and we went by taxi to the Yume Town mall near Dejima for lunch and shopping (shaver replacement blades). First we went to an electronics store on the third floor of the mall, but unfortunately the replacement blades they wanted were not available. We decided to use the time for lunch, and agreed to meet at the taxi stand beside the mall entrance 50 minutes later. The guests arrived 10 minutes before the appointed time, and we got into the taxi. Rather than heading to Oura Church, which we had discussed and decided on in advance, they said they wanted to go to the Yamada Denki store located even further north than Peace Park. It seemed they wanted to buy the shaver replacement blades. Fortunately, Yamada Denki had the replacement blades they were looking for, and the guests were able to make their purchase. After shopping, they said, "We won't go to Oura Church, we'll head back to the ship. We can return to the terminal by taxi ourselves," and the tour ended in front of Yamada Denki.

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

    Tour Report by Junichi

    Hello, my name is Junichi Matsumoto.
    I will be your guide on this occasion. With warm hospitality, I will do my best to help you fully enjoy and appreciate the charm of Japan.

    Before becoming a guide, I worked for the Kumamoto Prefectural Government and retired in March 2023. From 2003 to 2005, I was stationed in Montana, USA, which has a sister-state relationship with Kumamoto. During that time, I actively interacted with the local community together with my family, which gave me valuable cross-cultural experiences.

    I am an easygoing person who quickly builds a friendly relationship with international guests. With a sincere smile and attentive care, I always strive to provide tours that are warm, enjoyable, and memorable. It would be my great pleasure to help you make unforgettable memories during your stay in Japan.

    Request Booking

    Sep 19, 2026
    F5041JSmathiasl
    Great experience
    Tripadvisor review: Kumamoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Despite the awful weather I had a…

    Sep 12, 2026
    adrianhP6285OW
    True tour of Nagasaki
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent customised tour which made…

    Jul 24, 2026
    mariopV3953VG
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Amazing tour by an amazing guide
    Junichi, our guide,…

    Jun 16, 2026
    andreabL155TS
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nagaski day tour
    Junichi was a great tour guide. He met us…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at Hotel Groove Shinjuku
    • 8:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 9:45 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 11:15 Break @ Doutor Takebashi Branch
    • 11:55 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 13:25 Ueno Station, purchase Welcome Suica
    • 13:45 Asakusa (Skytree photo)
    • 14:05 Disband at Senso-ji Nakamise

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shinjuku Gyoen and Asakusa Body: There was occasional light rain from morning into midday, but the tour proceeded without much difficulty. When I confirmed at the meeting point, the guests did not have a Suica-type card, so we decided to purchase one at Ueno Station and otherwise proceeded as previously arranged. Overall, many photos were taken and I received many questions. I believe the guests were largely satisfied. I offered to help take photos at the main points of interest. After leisurely walking through Shinjuku Gyoen, we went to a café at their request and took a break at a café near Takebashi Station. Because we also stopped by Ueno Station, the tour ran a little over time, and since there was no request to extend, we finished at Senso-ji Temple. I received a tip.

    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 2Free PassMeiji-jingumae～Shinjuku-sanchome700JPY
    Section 3TrainSendagaya～Iidabashi200JPY
    Section 4Free PassIidabashi～Takebashi0JPY
    Section 5Free PassOtemachi～Ueno0JPY
    Section 6Free PassUeno～Asakusa0JPY
    Total1,060JPY

    Tour Report by Koba

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…

  • Tokyo: Shimbashi Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo: Shimbashi Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meeting place: Hotel Iconic Tokyo Shiodome
    • 8:10 Depart Shimbashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 8:40 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Senso-ji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • 9:30 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Nihombashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 9:50 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 11:00 Depart Otemachi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 11:10 Arrive Kudanshita Station
    • Kudanshita Chidorigafuchi
    • 12:30 Depart Hanzomon Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 12:50 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Lunch: Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • Takeshita Street
    • Cat Street
    • 14:45 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 15:00 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Shibuya Center Street
    • 15:40 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 16:00 Arrive Shimbashi Station
    • 16:00 Disband: Shimbashi Station

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America and Oceania. It was everyone's first visit to Japan. Both parties had arrived at Narita Airport and Haneda Airport the previous day, taking taxis to the hotel and meeting up there. This time, the guests were staying in Japan for a period of time. They would stay in Tokyo for several days, then visit Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima, before returning to Tokyo and heading home. "We've been looking forward to seeing the cherry blossoms," they said. Although the sky was cloudy, we were spared any rain, and the tour took place in surprisingly warm weather. First, we headed to Asakusa. We started in front of Kaminarimon Gate. I explained "Senso-ji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo," "what the five-story pagoda is for," "what Buddhism is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." We took commemorative photos at various spots, including in front of Kaminarimon and the five-story pagoda. The weeping cherry blossoms in the temple grounds were beginning to fall. We slowly strolled through the crowded Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as "What are the main religions in Japan?" "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?" and "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people follow?" There was also a question: "We see many people wearing kimono in the temple grounds. Why is that? Are they all Japanese?" We moved to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. The cherry blossoms were nearly in full bloom. I explained "the history of Japan from Edo to Meiji," "the Meiji Restoration," "why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace," "the history of the Imperial family," "World War II and the Tokyo air raids," and "how the stone walls were built." There were questions and comments such as "Does the current Emperor of Japan hold political power?" "Who will be the next Emperor?" and "Can a woman become Emperor?" We took the Tozai Line to Kudanshita. We slowly strolled along Chidorigafuchi. Although the cherry blossoms were beginning to fall, the area was crowded with many tourists. We also saw the fallen cherry tree that had appeared in the news. We walked to Hanzomon Station. We moved to Harajuku. Meiji Shrine was full of tourists. I explained "about Shinto," "about torii gates," "about Emperor Meiji," "why sake barrels are displayed," and "why wine barrels are displayed." There were questions such as "What kind of religion is Shinto?" and "How do Buddhism and Shinto differ?" We came across a wedding procession, which the guests eagerly photographed. We also encountered a family celebrating "Shichi-Go-San," and, with their permission, took photos as well. We took a break at "Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu." We also strolled through the very crowded "Takeshita Street" and "Cat Street." We moved to Shibuya. We actually crossed the Scramble Crossing. There were questions such as "How many people cross here?" and "Why did it become famous?" We also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue and strolled through Shibuya Center Street. There were comments and questions such as "The city is clean and there's no litter on the ground," "The public restrooms are clean," "There are no trash cans on the streets. Why is that?" "Everyone is quiet on the trains," and "There are vending machines everywhere." Finally, I saw the guests off at Ginza Station, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Train新橋～浅草210JPY
    Section 2Train浅草～大手町(東京都)180JPY
    Section 3Train大手町(東京都)～九段下180JPY
    Section 4Train半蔵門～明治神宮前180JPY
    Section 5Train明治神宮前～渋谷180JPY
    Section 6Train渋谷～新橋180JPY
    Total1,110JPY

    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.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at Hotel
    • 8:30 Assist with purchasing PASMO at the Keikyu ticket machine at Shinagawa Station Takanawa Exit
    • 9:00 Commemorative photo in front of the Loyal Dog Hachiko Statue, Shibuya Scramble Crossing, purchase gachapon at the gachapon shop in Shibuya Center Street, commemorative photo in front of the anime "My Hero Academia" board at Hotel Tokyu.
    • 9:50 Meiji Shrine
    • 10:50 Harajuku Takeshita Street (purchase gachapon at gachapon shop, shopping at Sanrio shop) *Decided to revisit after the tour due to the long wait time at the dog cafe
    • 13:10 Sensoji Temple
    • 14:15 Lunch at "Tsukiji Sushisei Shinkan"
    • 15:30 Explained how to get to Harajuku Station (*dog cafe) at the Yamanote Line Shimbashi Station platform (toward Harajuku) and disbanded.

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Tour Like for First-Time Visitors from North America? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: The guests, visiting from North America, arrived in Japan the previous day and planned to stay in Tokyo, take a day trip to Universal Studios in Osaka, then return to Tokyo for a few more days before heading home. In their emails beforehand, they expressed a wish to focus mainly on the main attractions, so I planned the itinerary accordingly. They had already made reservations and purchased tickets in advance for most of the spots I had recommended by email. During the tour, they asked me many questions about recommended restaurants and other things. One of the guests seemed a little nervous and quiet at first, but as we enjoyed a Japanese culture quiz together, they opened up, and in the latter half shared a lot about school life and favorite anime characters. For lunch, at the request of one of the guests who loves sushi, we went to a sushi restaurant. One of the guests, who is not so fond of sushi, really enjoyed the "grilled eel skewers" and happily finished three plates. With a smile, they repeated the newly learned word "oishii" (delicious) to the sushi chef several times, making for a truly heartwarming moment.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinagawa～Shibuya210JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya～Harajuku160JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku～Kanda (Tokyo)210JPY
    Section 4TrainKanda (Tokyo)～Asakusa180JPY
    Section 5TrainAsakusa～Higashi-ginza220JPY
    Section 6TrainHigashi-ginza～Shimbashi180JPY
    Total1,160JPY

    Tour Report by Bruce

    Hello (Konnichiwa). My name is Masanori SUGANO. Most of my friends call me Bruce, so you can call me Bruce. It would be my pleasure to act as a guide for you as I have been a guide for over twenty years. I curate my tours to suit your quest for knowledge and make you laugh with Dad jokes as an ice breaker. I can add some of my experiences as seasoning since I’m a seasoned guide. I always gain a new perspective through my guests’ eyes, and that’s why I am passionate about my job.
    You can create your own itinerary, and when we meet, you can let me know what things you want to see. I am very flexible and can go off the beaten track on your request.
    Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. I am looking forward to meeting you.
    Thank you (Arigatou-gozaimasu).

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    Aug 25, 2026
    T8432CMjeffr
    6 hr Tokyo tour with Bruce
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    The tour was…

    Aug 5, 2026
    Polly1818
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Bruce was the best !! 5⭐️
    Bruce was our…

    Aug 3, 2026
    AJEDav
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great guide
    Bruce Sagano was terrific! He was very…

    Jul 2, 2026
    jamespmccormick
    Tripadvisor review: The Best Family-Friendly Tokyo Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Great Tokyo tour with Bruce!
    We booked a 6 hour…

  • Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. Meet at 10:30 @ In front of JR Sannomiya Station Central Ticket Gate
    • 2. 10:05 @ Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden
    • 3. 12:30 @ Ikuta Shrine
    • 4. 13:00 Break @ Nishimura Coffee Nakayamate Main Store
    • 5. 13:30 @ Sorakuen Garden
    • 6. 14:00 Lunch @ Kobe Motomachi Sushikichi
    • 7. 14:30 Disband @ Kobe Motomachi Shopping Street

    What's a Private Day Tour of Kobe Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. After meeting at JR Sannomiya Station, we visited the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, Ikuta Shrine, took a break at a long-established coffee house, then went to Sorakuen Garden and had lunch at a sushi restaurant in Kobe Motomachi, ending the tour at the Motomachi shopping arcade. It was an extremely cold day today. The Herb Garden was especially cold because of the strong wind, so we hurried along, stopping to take photos at various points. We also ended up visiting cafés and restaurants more often. I imagine the guests found it cold as well. When I asked for their impressions after the tour, they said it was "good," but I suspect their honest feeling was that it was "cold."

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherKobe Municipal Subway Seishin-Yamate Line (Sannomiya (Kobe Municipal)～Shin-Kobe)110JPY
    Section 2OtherKobe Municipal Subway Seishin-Yamate Line (Shin-Kobe～Sannomiya (Kobe Municipal))110JPY
    Total220JPY

    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!

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    Sep 29, 2026
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    X1794ZGstevew
    Kobe 4hr guided tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Norio pickup us up ontime &…

    Sep 17, 2026
    jacquelinecI8863UY
    No rush beautiful walking tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a wonderful time. Norio…

    Sep 15, 2026
    niy679
    Kobe day trip
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had an amazing tour with Norio. He…

    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…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at JR Inari Station
    • 11:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 12:30 Coffee break
    • 13:00 Gion
    • 13:45 Snack break
    • 14:30 Nijo Castle
    • 16:00 Tour ends at Nishiki Market

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like from Osaka? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests joined a private tour together. Since they were coming from Osaka, we met at Inari Station. The guests listened attentively to the guide throughout, making it a very pleasant day. At Gion and Nijo Castle, they were deeply moved by the history and culture of each site. As some of the guests were fond of Mario, I introduced the Mario figures in the underground passage, gave an overview of Nishiki Market, and concluded the tour. I understood that this was a very valuable trip for the guests, and it reminded me once again how precious such a journey can be.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainFushimi Inari～Gion-Shijo240JPY
    Section 2SubwaySanjo Keihan～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijojo-mae～Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)220JPY
    Total680JPY

    Tour Report by Mizu

    Hello, my name is Mizuho Yoshikawa. Please call me Mizu and my name means rice and water in Japanese.
    I’ve been a tour guide more than 200 times since the spring of 2023 in Kobe, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Wakayama and Kochi. My tour is always original and new, depending on the guest’s preferences, encounters, seasons and weather.
    In Kyoto, one of my tours is to climb Mt. Kurama. It is about 1 hour from the city of Kyoto by train, it is a very quiet and beautiful mountain.
    In Osaka, which is called the kitchen of Japan, I am also in charge of food tour.
    In Nara, in addition to the Great Budda Hall, I guide guests to the temple with a really great view and Japanese wine, sake tasting.
    Every city has a unique charming point.
    The motto of my guiding is ” Ichigo Ichie” Once in a lifetime or seize the day. I learn this concept that the moment will never be the same again through tea ceremonies.
    I like a tea ceremony that is part of the traditional Japanese culture and embodies the spirit of “omotenashi” or hospitality. Through the tea ceremony, we can feel the spirit of “omotenashi” that has been passed down to us from ancient times.
    And I like to travel abroad and domestically, and I have been to 13 overseas countries and most of the prefectures in Japan. Traveling always gives me a new perspective, which is exciting and thrilling. Nowadays, we can learn a lot from the Internet, but traveling teaches us that it is important to have direct experience. When I travel, I feel that my five senses are infinitely expanded, and through my tour, I help all guests to have the same feeling in Japan.
    I was born and raised in Kanagawa Prefecture, which is next to Tokyo Prefecture in eastern Japan. When I was little, I could see Mount Fuji from my backyard. There was also a rice field nearby, and I grew up listening to the croaking of frogs. Listening to the frogs and seeing the mountains made me feel very calm.
    I moved to the city of Kobe, one of the Kansai areas in western Japan, which includes Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and so on. I’m not from the Kansai area of western Japan, but I think that makes me sensitive to the differences between that area and the Kanto area, Tokyo, where I grew up.
    Speaking of Kobe, you might be thinking of Kobe beef. Of course you do. There are also other sake breweries in Nada in Kobe. You can also go from Kobe city to Himeji Castle, also known as the White Egret Castle, which was the first in Japan to be listed as a World Heritage Site in 1993.
    Let’s meet and enjoy Japan together!

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    Sep 13, 2026
    946jakobr
    Mizu, as your guide in Koyoto, is the perfect guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed…

    Sep 5, 2026
    Sightsee18435593786
    De moeite waard👍
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Mizu heeft een mooie rondleiding geheven er werd…

    Jul 27, 2026
    OscarBrisenoJr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Awesome tour of Kyoto
    Seeing the temples and shrines…

    Jul 21, 2026
    MarcL3556
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful and Memorable Tour of Osaka with Mizu…