Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Hamarikyu Gardens

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Hamarikyu Gardens

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho, Hotel
    • 8:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 10:00 Rikugien Garden
    • 11:30 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center Observation Terrace, Nakamise Shopping Street, Sensoji Temple
    • 13:30 Lunch at "Tsukiji Sushisei Shinkan"
    • 14:30 Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 15:15 Disband in front of Shimbashi Station on the Ginza Line.

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Tsukiji, and Hamarikyu Gardens The guests visited Japan recently and planned to spend time in Tokyo before continuing to Kanazawa, Kyoto, and Osaka, then returning home. I had received the desired itinerary in advance, and since the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace were closed that day, I suggested Meiji Shrine instead, which they seemed very satisfied to visit. For lunch, at the guests' request, we went to a sushi restaurant in Tsukiji. They tried sea urchin for the first time, repeatedly saying "gochisousama" while taking commemorative photos with the chef. For one of the guests who does not care for fish, the chef specially prepared vegetable-based sushi, which was greatly appreciated. Because of this, we skipped the planned wagyu skewers and instead enjoyed a stroll through Hamarikyu Gardens. Finally, I guided them to Shimbashi Station on the Ginza Line, where 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 1TrainNagatacho～Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku～Komagome260JPY
    Section 3TrainKomagome～Ueno200JPY
    Section 4TrainUeno～Asakusa180JPY
    Section 5TrainAsakusa～Higashi-ginza220JPY
    Total1,040JPY

    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).

    Request Booking

    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…

  • 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

    • 1000 Meet at Hotel (directly connected to JR Tokyo Station). Tried to buy a SUICA but was flustered as credit cards couldn't be used.
    • Since they had visited the East Gardens the day before, guided them around Marunouchi, the Industry Club Hall Building, the Marunouchi Building's pine pilings, and Marunouchi Naka-dori Street
    • 1115 Tsukiji Outer Market, Kabukiza Theater, Ginza 4-chome Intersection
    • 1230 Shibuya, Hachiko Statue, Scramble Crossing
    • 1300 Harajuku, Takeshita Street, visit to Meiji Shrine, lunch at Restaurant Yoyogi
    • 1525 Asakusa, Azumabashi Bridge, Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine
    • 1615 Tour ends at Asakusa Station
    • Since their return route was the same as mine, I saw them off to Tokyo Station and we parted ways

    What Does a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who had arrived in Tokyo two days earlier. They had previously visited Hiroshima in Japan. They planned to stay three more days in Tokyo and then board a cruise ship from Yokohama. When I arrived at the Hotel, the area from the Marunouchi Central Gate of Tokyo Station along Gyoko-dori was under extremely tight security. At first I thought it might be a visiting ambassador heading to the Imperial Palace, but then a motorcade arrived from the Imperial Palace. I then recalled the news that Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress, along with Princess Aiko, were traveling to Fukushima that day. From a distance, I was able to see Their Majesties and Princess Aiko. Since I met the guests about ten minutes later, I showed them the footage and explained what had happened. They wanted to purchase a SUICA card, so we went to a JR ticket machine, but credit cards could not be used there, and they did not have much cash on hand. I took them to look for an ATM, but while debit cards were fine, they hesitated because credit card cash advances carry high fees. In the end, we decided to charge 2,000 yen each (effectively 1,500 yen excluding the deposit) within the cash they had and manage for the day. Originally, I had planned to guide them through the Imperial Palace Outer Garden as well, but they had visited the East Gardens the day before and had a reservation for the Kikyo Gate the next day, so I gave an overview but skipped the visit. At Meiji Shrine, they wanted to have a proper meal, so rather than a cafeteria we had lunch at a restaurant in Yoyogi. The timing was a bit tight, and the requested route of the Tsukiji Outer Market, the Shibuya Crossing, and Asakusa was not the easiest to cover, but we managed to see everything, and I believe the guests were satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassNijubashimae～Hibiya～Tsukiji700JPY
    Section 2Free PassGinza～Shibuya0JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya～Harajuku160JPY
    Section 4Free PassMeiji-jingumae～Omotesando～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 5Free PassAsakusa～Kanda0JPY
    Section 6TrainKanda (Tokyo)～Tokyo160JPY
    Total1,020JPY

    Tour Report by Ted

    I had worked in the international business scene for over 40 years and traveled to North America and European countries over 1000 days.
    After I retired from the business, I traveled to most of the major sightseeing spots in all 47 prefectures in Japan.

    My guide is starting from a brief history of the site where I am going to guide. I usually add a briefing about Japanese culture based on religions, such as Shinto Shrine and Buddhist temples. A geographic background behind the history is also important.
    My course includes 4 to 5 (in 6 hours) sites from the following depending on where I will pick the guests up;
    – Senso ji Temple
    – Kappabashi Kitchenware Market
    – Tokyo Skytree
    – Ueno Park
    – Nezu Shrine
    – Imperial Palace outer park
    – Tokyo Central Station, Marunouchi historic district
    – Tsukiji Fish Market
    – Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    – Ginza
    – Odaiba
    – Hama Rikyu Garden
    – Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
    – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
    – Roppongi
    – Meiji Shrine
    – Harajuku & Takeshita Street
    – Shibuya
    – and Any of your interest.

    I am happy to introduce Japanese Manga/Anime cultures such as Akihabara, Nakano Broadway and Ghibli related sites.
    Travelling along the JR central line where guests can stopover at major animation studios (it is not accepted to visit the inside). The majority of animation studios such as TMS Entertainment, SUNRISE, A1 Pictures etc. are located in this area. Suginami Animation museum, Studio Ghibli and Ghibli Museum are also located.
    Guests can feel old houses in the Spirited Away scene in the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.

    I can also provide a pilgrimage to the sacred place (shooting location) for the Shinkai Makoto animation movies such as Your name, Weathering with you, and Suzume.

    Another interesting feature is to visit authentic Japanese style pub meals such as Yakitori, Karaage, and Sushi etc.
    Asakusa Hoppy Street, Ameyoko Street, Yurakucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku Golden gai, Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho are nice to visit.

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

    In addition to the above, I am available in the neighboring cities.

    Kawagoe is an old town developed in the 17th century. It has very close relationship with the Edo central government. Kawagoe castle ruins, Kitain temple and 500 Buddha statues will welcome the guests.
    These areas are renovated and provide an old days atmosphere.
    Japanese style sweets food stands will fascinate the guests.
    Kawagoe is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    Kamakura is the first Samurai worriers government established in the late 12th century.
    The Buddhism are introduced to Japan in the 6th century, and flourished at Nara and Kyoto later. A newer Buddhism sect such as Zen has well developed at Kamakura area.
    Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Gigantic Buddha statue at Kotokuin Temple and the flower temple Hasedera Temple are must-see.
    Kamakura is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    I am also happy to develop any other site the guests have interest.

    Request Booking

    Sep 24, 2026
    Leslie_R
    Good tour on first day
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Ted, our guide was…

    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

    Jun 26, 2026
    ann r
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Educational with kind, generous guide
    My teenage sons and I learned…

    Jun 14, 2026
    141yunb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
    We…

  • Fukuoka in Half a Day: Moji West Coast Pier No.1 & 12-30 Kokura Castle

    Fukuoka in Half a Day: Moji West Coast Pier No.1 & 12-30 Kokura Castle

    Kitakyushu Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00　Moji West Coast Pier No.1
    • 10:10-10:20 Visit Mojiko Station
    • 10:20-10:45 Travel to Tanga Market (JR + Monorail)
    • 10:45-11:05 Stroll through Tanga Market
    • 11:05-11:15 Walk to Kokura Castle
    • 11:15:11:45 Cherry blossom viewing around Kokura Castle
    • 11:45-12-30 Kokura Castle
    • 12:30-12:40 Move to Kokura Castle Garden through the Yasaka Shrine grounds
    • 12:40-13:30 Tea ceremony experience, garden stroll, and exhibition hall tour
    • 13:30-13:50- Kitakyushu City Hall Rooftop Observation Room
    • Afterwards, walk to Kokura Station, and after the guests board the train bound for Mojiko, the tour ends

    Title: What Is a Private Cultural Tour in Kitakyushu Like for Cruise Ship Guests? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a visitor from North America who arrived by cruise ship. Part of the group chose to rest on board due to fatigue from the long voyage and did not join the tour. Since this tour had been planned in advance in consultation with the guest, focusing mainly on introducing and experiencing Japanese culture, it was very unfortunate that not everyone could take part. I had planned activities such as a kimono dressing experience and a Kokura-ori weaving experience, but the guest did not seem very interested in them, so we skipped those. At the Tanga Market, the guest enjoyed the atmosphere of a market unique to Japan. The cherry blossoms were in full bloom, and the guest was also able to touch the falling petals, which seemed to be thoroughly enjoyable. During the tea ceremony experience, the guest was able to encounter authentic Japanese culture and art, and appeared to take a real interest in it. As a cruise voyage reaches its later stages, some travelers seem to grow tired and may feel unwell, so I felt I should also consider how to respond in such cases.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMojiko～Kokura (Fukuoka Prefecture)340JPY
    Section 2OtherKokura～Tanga Market100JPY
    Total440JPY

    Tour Report by Chiharu

    Hallo, my name is Chiharu Horigome. I am a national government-licensed guide interpreter. I was born in Beppu City, Oita Prefecture, and living in Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture. I lived for 42 years in Chiba City until April 2023, during that time I worked as a volunteer guide for Narita Airport transit tours. I studied chemistry at university and have over 20 years of experience as a chemical patent translator, so I can also assist with factory tours. My specialty is Japanese culture, especially the tea ceremony, which I have been familiar with since I was a child. In addition, I have a license for kimono dressing. I hope people from other countries feel authentic Japanese culture. I can also help them understand hot springs and sake, including chemical explanations. I am happy to assist you during our tour. If you have any questions about our tour, feel free to ask. I am glad to answer them to the best of my ability! I am looking forward to seeing you.

    Request Booking
  • Tokyo: Chidorigafuchi & Chuo-dori in Akihabara

    Tokyo: Chidorigafuchi & Chuo-dori in Akihabara

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 　Departure from Hotel
    • 10:20 Chidorigafuchi
    • 11:00 Imperial Palace, Nijubashi Bridge
    • 11:30 Lunch at Tengoku in Ginza
    • 13:00 Tokyo Station, Marunouchi area
    • 13:40 Asakusa, Sensoji Temple
    • 14:00 Sumida River, Tokyo Skytree, photo from outside
    • 14:30 Walk along Chuo-dori in Akihabara
    • 15:30 Drive across the Rainbow Bridge by car, drive around the Odaiba area
    • 16:02 Arrival at hotel

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Tour During Cherry Blossom Season? A Licensed Guide's Report It was a sunny and warm day, and although the cherry blossoms were slightly past their peak, I believe the guests were able to enjoy the cherry blossoms fully at Chidorigafuchi. Since one of the guests had a leg support, I chose flat paths as much as possible, and the guests were able to walk without any problem and enjoyed the day. In Asakusa, the guests were not interested in shopping and wished to enjoy a little of many different places, so I shortened our time in Asakusa and we went to Akihabara and crossed the Rainbow Bridge to Odaiba. The taxi driver was very cooperative and gave us helpful advice, which was greatly appreciated.

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

    Tour Report by Tomoko

    Hello, I’m Tomoko, your tourist guide. I became a guide in 2017. Before becoming the guide, I had worked with global corporations for a long time. During that time I had many opportunities to work with people with different cultural background and to visit various countiries, that gave me new knowledge and inspiration, even changed the way of thinking. Then, I really felt like introducing the culture of Japan which I loved to people with different cultural background. So that they will experience same enjoyment I had. Then, I became a guide and am really enjoying traveling with happy travelers now. I am friendly and approachable person. Please let me know what you would like to see and do in Japan, I will try my best to make you happy.

    Request Booking

    Mar 30, 2026
    LINDAN2323
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great service and a wonderful tour!
    My family and I booked a…

  • Kochi: Kochi New Port & Katsurahama Beach

    Kochi: Kochi New Port & Katsurahama Beach

    Kochi Shore Excursion: Customized Car Tour, Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Kochi New Port
    • 10:20 Sunday Market
    • 11:00 Kochi Castle　
    • 11:20 Kochi Castle Museum of History
    • 11:45 Hirome Market
    • 12:00 Lunch @Obiya Kansuke
    • 13:00 Obiyamachi Shopping Street
    • 14:15 Chikurin-ji Temple
    • 14:50 Katsurahama Beach
    • 15:50 Kochi New Port

    Title: What Is a Private Sunday Market Walking Tour in Kochi Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Since it happened to be a Sunday, I guided the guests through the Sunday Market. They seemed to have a great time buying mandarin oranges and yakitori, and looking at bladed goods. It was my first time guiding guests using an electric wheelchair, and it was a valuable experience for the future, such as avoiding gravel paths and arranging for charging at a restaurant during lunch. The temperature was high that day and there was a lot of walking, so I suggested a cafe break, but the guests preferred to prioritize shopping. At the Obiyamachi shopping arcade, the guests enjoyed shopping, buying a wooden statue of a Bodhisattva at a Buddhist goods store and purchasing a scarf at a department store.

    Click here for more details: Kochi Shore Excursion: Customized Car Tour, Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Keiko

    Hello, I am Keiko.
    I was born and raised in Kochi Prefecture which is blessed with beautiful rivers, mountains and the ocean.
    I majored in English in college and enjoy communicating with people in English. I have also worked at a university, assisting international students from admission to graduation.
    I consider myself friendly and enjoy helping others.
    In my free time, I visit an onsen, swim, do yoga and watch TV dramas.
    I am also a big foodie! I would be happy to recommend some great restaurants and bars.
    I am looking forward to meeting you in Kochi.

    Request Booking

    Apr 5, 2026
    Giovanni_M
    Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Fantastic
    Our tour was just amazing worth every moment and…

    Mar 18, 2026
    Victor_P
    Great tour.
    Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Keiko was great. Very friendly and accommodating. The…

    Jun 19, 2025
    Brad_M
    Best Tour of our Entire Trip to Japan
    Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    We had…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Nunobiki Herb & Hakutsuru Sake Brewery

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Nunobiki Herb & Hakutsuru Sake Brewery

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Kobe Port Terminal
    • 10:45 at Nunobiki Herb Garden
    • 12:00 at Kitano Foreign Residence (Moegi House)
    • 13:15 at Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum
    • 14:30 Dismissal at Sannomiya (Steak Restaurant)

    What Does a Private Kobe Day Tour Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, and they moved around smoothly throughout the day. One of the guests seemed to enjoy photography and eagerly took photos not only at each spot but also of the cityscape and street scenes. From the top of Nunobiki Herb Garden, they were delighted to be able to see with the naked eye the cruise ship they had arrived on. At the Kitano Ijinkan area, they toured the "Moegi House," a former foreign consular residence, with great interest. At the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum, which they had been looking forward to, they listened attentively to the guide's explanations and asked many questions. In addition to the free tasting, they also enjoyed some of the paid options. After finishing each spot, they expressed a strong wish to eat authentic "Kobe Beef," which they had also been greatly looking forward to, so I guided them to a restaurant I recommended, where we parted ways. I presented one of the guests with a handmade drawstring pouch made by my family member, which was very warmly received.

    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 2SubwaySannomiya (Kobe Municipal)～Shin-Kobe210JPY
    Section 3SubwayShin-Kobe～Sannomiya (Kobe Municipal)210JPY
    Section 4TrainSannomiya～Sumiyoshi (Hyogo, Hanshin Line)200JPY
    Section 5TrainSumiyoshi (Hyogo, Hanshin Line)～Sannomiya200JPY
    Total1,030JPY

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

    This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
    I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
    real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
    if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

    Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
    that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
    and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
    foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
    Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
    explanation for these three foods.

    1) Tako-yaki
    Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
    octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
    2) Okonomi-yaki
    This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
    Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
    3) Kushi-katsu
    Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
    ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

    Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
    that you like them very much.

    I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
    and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
    great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

    Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
    Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
    Yama

    Request Booking

    Sep 27, 2026
    Ross_W
    Fun with Hidden Gems
    Viator review: Osaka Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour, Licensed Guide
    Our guide Yama was so…

    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Great experience
    Yama was great, he showed us around and explained…

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

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

  • Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera & Ryoan-ji

    Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera & Ryoan-ji

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Meet (@Hotel)
    • 9:00-10:10 Travel (Subway; Imadegawa→Sanjo Keihan, Keihan Train; Keihan Sanjo→Kiyomizu-Gojo)
    • 10:10-11:40 Kiyomizu-dera visit (including Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka, Yasaka Pagoda, Koshin-do)
    • 11:40-12:20 Travel (Keihan Train; Gion-Shijo→Keihan Sanjo, Subway; Sanjo Keihan→Nijojo-mae)
    • 12:20-13:50 Nijo Castle visit
    • 13:50-14:20 Travel (City Bus; Nijojo-mae→Waratenjin-mae)
    • 14:20-15:10 Lunch (CoCo Hanana / near Kinkaku-ji)
    • 15:10-15:40 Travel (City Bus; Waratenjin-mae→Ryoanji-mae)
    • 15:40-16:30 Ryoan-ji visit
    • 16:30-17:00 Travel (City Bus; Ryoanji-mae→Imadegawa)
    • 17:00 Tour end (We took them to Imadegawa, the nearest station to the hotel, ended the tour there, and said goodbye.

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour of Kiyomizu-dera, Nijo Castle, and Ryoan-ji Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. The tour was originally planned for a larger group, but the night before the tour, I received a message that one of the guests suddenly needed to return home, so it became a smaller party. Because of this, on the morning of the tour I contacted the restaurant to reduce the number of people by one. I took the guests to Kiyomizu-dera, Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka, the Yasaka Pagoda, Koshin-do, Nijo Castle, and Ryoan-ji. Originally, a visit to Kinkaku-ji was also planned, but during the visit to Kiyomizu-dera, the guests requested to take their time, saying that for the latter part of the day just one of either Kinkaku-ji or Ryoan-ji would be enough. So we changed the plan to visit only Ryoan-ji, which could be enjoyed relatively quietly and where the guide's explanation was more needed. Because of this, I contacted the restaurant again to ask for a change in the reservation time. At Wara Tenjin, the bus was significantly delayed, and I kept the guests waiting at the bus stop for more than 20 minutes. However, as a result, by skipping Kinkaku-ji we were able to see the guests off at their nearest station right on schedule. Both guests said the order of Ryoan-ji, Nijo Castle, and Kiyomizu-dera worked out well. It was a tour with quite a few changes to adapt to along the way.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayImadegawa～Sanjo (Kyoto)260JPY
    Section 2TrainSanjo (Kyoto)～Kiyomizu-Gojo180JPY
    Section 3TrainGion-Shijo～Sanjo (Kyoto)180JPY
    Section 4SubwaySanjo (Kyoto)～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 5BusNijojo-mae／Kyoto City Bus～Waratenjin-mae／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 6BusWaratenjin-mae／Kyoto City Bus～Ryoanji-mae／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 7BusRyoanji-mae／Kyoto City Bus～Imadegawa230JPY
    Total1,530JPY

    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 !

    Request Booking

    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.…

  • Nara in One Day: Kasuga Taisha Main Sanctuary & Nakatanidou

    Nara in One Day: Kasuga Taisha Main Sanctuary & Nakatanidou

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet @Kintetsu Nara Station
    • 10:00 @Kasuga Taisha Main Sanctuary
    • 10:30 @Wakamiya Shrine, Meoto Daikoku Shrine
    • 11:30 @Todaiji Great Buddha Hall
    • 12:00 @Tamukeyama Hachimangu Shrine
    • 12:30 @Nara Park, Kofukuji Temple (exterior only)
    • 13:00 Lunch
    • 14:00 @Naramachi Museum, Nigiwai no Ie, Goryo Shrine
    • 15:00 @Nakatanidou
    • 15:30 Dismissal @Kintetsu Nara Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Day Tour of Nara from Kyoto? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests had toured Kyoto with a guide the previous day. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide explained the differences between the temples of Kyoto and Nara: Kyoto's temples belong to many diverse Buddhist sects and feature elaborate architecture and gardens due to the deep involvement of aristocrats and the shogunate, while Nara's temples are larger in scale and strongly reflect the idea of Buddhism as protection for the nation. After visiting Kasuga Taisha Shrine and Todaiji Temple, the guests strolled through Naramachi, and were particularly interested in the Koshin "substitute monkey" charms. Afterward, at their request, they visited Nakatanidou to see its famous high-speed mochi pounding. Since it was set to begin ten minutes later, we waited and watched the powerful mochi-pounding performance. The tour concluded after seeing the guests off as they boarded a limited express train bound for Kyoto at Kintetsu Nara Station.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKintetsu Nara Station／Nara Kotsu～Todaiji Great Buddha Hall・Kasuga Taisha-mae／Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Total250JPY

    Tour Report by Yuri

    I’m Yuri Takeda, a goverment lisenced English tour guide. I’ve been working as a tour guide for about two years. I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been in Nara for about 40 years. I can guide you Kyoto, Osaka and Nara. I like visiting historical sites, eating and cooking. I also like meeting people from different backgrounds. In Japanese, we have a wonderful phrase “Ichigo Ichie”. It means we have to treasure every encounter is a once in a lifetime opportunity. This word came from the spirit of tea ceremony. I’d like to help you discover, enjoy, experience and feel Japanese culture with the heart of Japanese hospitarity, “omotenashi”.

    Request Booking

    Jun 6, 2026
    Jason_B
    Viator review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent, well rounded…
    Excellent, well rounded itinerary with pertinent facts and answers…

    Apr 13, 2026
    Dunka591
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Highly recommend.
    Yuri is an incredible woman! What an amazing experience, we…

    Jul 28, 2025
    C
    Cedric_S
    Incredible Kyoto Adventure with Yuri
    Viator review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide Yuri was the heartbeat…

    Jun 25, 2025
    983whitneym
    Beautiful Kyoto Guided Tour With Yuri
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    We loved…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shinjuku Gyoen & Asakusa/Senso-ji Temple

    Tokyo in One Day: Shinjuku Gyoen & Asakusa/Senso-ji Temple

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 9:30 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 11:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 13:30 Chidorigafuchi
    • 14:00 Asakusa/Senso-ji Temple

    What's a Private One-Day Tour of Central Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shinjuku Gyoen, Meiji Shrine, Chidorigafuchi, and Asakusa [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private one-day tour of central Tokyo for a group visiting from Asia. The guests were staying in Tokyo and had expressed an interest in Japanese history, so this became a tour covering the main highlights of central Tokyo as they had requested in advance. We first visited Shinjuku Gyoen, which the guests had requested to see first. Although the peak had passed, they were deeply impressed by the magnificent views and wished to spend more time there. Since they could return another day, we then headed to Meiji Shrine. At Meiji Shrine, I explained how Shinto, which forms part of the background of Japanese culture, has influenced Japanese culture, as well as the differences in ways of worship. The guests seemed very moved and worshiped with great sincerity. Next, we visited Chidorigafuchi, which had not originally been planned, so they could enjoy one last chance to view the rows of cherry trees. Finally, we headed to Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple. The guests seemed overwhelmed by the enormous crowds; while they found the views and atmosphere wonderful, they appeared somewhat put off by how crowded it was. They wished to remain and continue exploring the area, so we concluded the tour there.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day 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.

    Request Booking

    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…

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

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari & Kiyomizu-dera

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at ORI KYOTO
    • 10:50 Fushimi Inari
    • 13:00 Lunch in Gion
    • 14:00 Gion
    • 14:30 Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka
    • 15:00 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 16:00 End at Kiyomizu-dera

    What Is a Private Family Walking Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a family from Europe visiting Japan. Since some of the guests preferred to sit down and take breaks at their own pace, we spent a little extra time accommodating that. One of the guests had a deep interest in Japan and had studied its history, religion, and language quite extensively (they could not speak Japanese but seemed able to catch a little of it when listening). Throughout the tour, I was continually asked questions about Japan. We walked quite a lot, so toward the end the guests appeared a little tired, but even after we parted ways at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, they mentioned they would return to slowly explore Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka once more.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShijo (Kyoto Municipal)～Kyoto220JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 3TrainFushimi Inari～Gion-Shijo240JPY
    Total610JPY

    Tour Report by Kuni

    Hi I am Kunihiro ARAKAWA, National government licensed tour guide.
    Please call me first name Kuni.
    My original city is Nagoya, but I lived in Tokyo for 20 years,
    and also lived in London and Paris for work.
    Now I live in Kyoto city. I moved here because I love Kyoto.
    I like taking photos and also sell my own photos on website.
    I’d love to take memorable photos for you at great photo spots.
    I also like history and gourmet food.
    I’d love to introduce some local recommendations.
    I’ll ask your request and create your special tour.
    Please feel free to let us know your thoughts.
    Looking forward to meeting you !

    Kuni

    Request Booking

    Aug 18, 2026
    janetaF288XA
    Wonderful tour filled with history, insights and great photos!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide…

    Jul 18, 2026
    M2443VKandrewl
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Excellent guide and support
    Kuni-san was an excellent guide and…

    Jun 9, 2026
    Gail M
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Kyoto Sights; Private Guide & Driver
    The…

    Jun 5, 2026
    Rick_S
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    An afternoon in Kyoto
    We had a great time exploring Kyoto. Our…