Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Tokyo Station & Ameyoko

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tokyo Station & Ameyoko

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00　Pick up @ Shin-Nihombashi
    • 9:10　Tokyo Station
    • 9:20　Marunouchi
    • 9:30～10:10　Imperial Palace Outer Garden・Nijubashi Bridge
    • 10:20～11:30　Nezu Shrine・Yanaka
    • 11:40～12:20　Ameyoko
    • 12:30～13:00　Asakusa・Sensoji Temple

    What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Walking Tour from Tokyo Station to Asakusa? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, who had arrived on a flight the previous day. We started from Tokyo Station, passing through the Marunouchi district, and visited the Imperial Palace Outer Gardens and Nijubashi Bridge. Along the way, we admired cherry blossoms that had not yet fallen while I explained the imperial family and the flow of history from the Edo period to the Meiji Restoration, and the guests actively asked many questions, showing great knowledge of history. At Nezu Shrine, we were fortunate that a local festival was being held, and the guests watched with great interest as portable shrines and children dressed in traditional costumes passed by. I explained the thousand torii gates and the origins of the Inari deity and foxes, and the guests fully enjoyed the tranquil atmosphere of the shrine, with some taking photographs within the precincts. During the walk in Yanaka, they enjoyed brown sugar manju and menchi-katsu, and some of the guests had fun with the capsule toy machines. At Ameyoko, after enjoying matcha soft-serve ice cream, one of the guests, who liked cars, purchased a T-shirt printed with a classic car design. Afterward, we moved to Asakusa, where we walked through Nakamise to Senso-ji Temple to pay our respects, and the guests tried drawing omikuji fortunes. Perhaps due to jet lag and travel fatigue, they seemed a little tired toward the end, but we concluded the tour after their visit to the temple. Finally, I recommended some good places for lunch and Japanese desserts before taking my leave.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShin-Nihombashi～Tokyo160JPY
    Section 2TrainOtemachi (Tokyo)～Nezu180JPY
    Section 3TrainNippori～Ueno160JPY
    Section 4TrainUeno～Asakusa180JPY
    Total680JPY

    Tour Report by Tomoya

    Hello, and welcome to Japan.
    My name is Tomoya Kimura, and I will be your licensed guide for this tour.
    It is a great pleasure to meet you.

    I obtained my National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter qualification in February 2025.
    I am actively participating in professional training programs and have recently started my guiding work.

    Before becoming a guide, I worked for 13 years at a major Japanese trading company, specializing in international sales.
    I also lived and worked overseas for a total of five years in Germany and Thailand.
    Through that experience, I learned how to work closely with people from different cultural backgrounds, to understand their perspectives, and to build trust through clear and respectful communication.
    I believe these skills are equally important when guiding guests from abroad.

    I am also a passionate traveler myself and have visited around 40 countries so far.
    My particular interests are Shintoism, Japan’s hot spring culture, and regional food traditions.
    During our time together, I hope not only to show you places, but also to share the stories behind them like why hot springs are so important to Japanese people, and how local food cultures have developed over time.

    I always try to adapt my guiding style to each guest’s interests and pace, so that you can feel comfortable, relaxed, and truly enjoy your time in Japan.
    I hope this journey will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper connection to the places we visit.

    Thank you very much, and I look forward to spending a wonderful time with you.

    Request Booking

    Apr 18, 2026
    N9452DMrebeccaa
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A beautiful day in Tokyo
    Tomo was wonderful and a great guide!

    Mar 30, 2026
    MarieC
    Viator review: Tsukiji Food and Toyosu Market with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tomoya was a fantastic…
    Tomoya was a fantastic guide. Very knowledgeable…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Imperial Palace East Gardens & Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Imperial Palace East Gardens & Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hotel Takanawa
    • 10:40 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 12:10 Asakusa (Skytree photos)
    • 12:45 Lunch at Raamen Men
    • 13:10 Sensoji Temple
    • 13:45 Ueno Park, Ueno Toshogu Shrine
    • 14:15 Disband at Tokyo National Museum

    What Is a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace East Gardens, Asakusa, and Ueno Park The weather was good; while it was not fully sunny, there was no wind and it was a warm, calm day. Both the Imperial Palace East Gardens and Asakusa were very crowded. At the Imperial Palace East Gardens, the guests enjoyed taking photos of cherry blossoms and camellias. At Sensoji Temple, after passing through the Nakamise shopping street, the guests suddenly said they wanted to have a meal. Since this was outside the plan discussed in the morning, it was difficult to find an available restaurant, but at a ramen shop we were able to eat without waiting, which taught me something useful. We returned to Sensoji Temple, where the guests enjoyed drawing omikuji fortunes. Because lunch was added unexpectedly, we had to move through Ueno Park at a very quick pace. The tour ended as scheduled, and I received a tip.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTakanawadai～Otemachi (Tokyo)220JPY
    Section 2TrainTakebashi～Asakusa210JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa～Ueno180JPY
    Total610JPY

    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.

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    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 in One Day: Meguro River Cherry Blossom Promenade

    Tokyo in One Day: Meguro River Cherry Blossom Promenade

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 09:45 Meguro River Cherry Blossom Promenade
    • 10:45 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 11:00 Takeshita Street Mini Pig Cafe
    • 11:40 Lunch @ Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • 12:30 Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 14:00 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 14:45 Dismissal @ Don Quijote Ginza Store

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: The guests were visitors from North America who had arrived in Japan the day before, planning to stay in Tokyo for a few more days before boarding a cruise. Today was likely the last chance to see the cherry blossoms along the Meguro River in full glory, so I was glad we were able to enjoy them. The guests wanted to visit the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, so I took them there, but as expected, for someone accustomed to bustling city centers, it was underwhelming, and we moved on quickly. With the extra time, we visited a mini-pig cafe on Takeshita Street. At Meiji Shrine, the guests were thrilled to see a long procession for a wedding ceremony. At the Imperial Palace, they repeatedly exclaimed "gorgeous" while admiring the stone walls and gardens. Since one of the guests was fond of history, I wove historical anecdotes into our conversation throughout the day. Over lunch, I offered advice on how to spend the rest of their time in Tokyo and at the cruise ship's ports of call. In the morning, the guests confidently mentioned being used to getting around by subway and on foot, but by the end of the day they were understandably tired. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. Winner of Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHibiya～Nakameguro210JPY
    Section 2TrainNakameguro～Shibuya140JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya～Harajuku160JPY
    Section 4SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Otemachi (Tokyo)210JPY
    Total720JPY

    Tour Report by Hideki

    Hello! My name is Hideki Maruyama. I was born in Osaka and raised in the Greater Tokyo area. I obtained my National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate in February 2016.
    I spent 23 years working at a leading Japanese automotive company, including 7 years posted overseas. I then worked for a German premium automotive manufacturer for 13 years, followed by 6 years as an advisor to a British energy company. Through these roles at global corporations, I developed and refined key skills such as:
    1. Cross-cultural communication
    2. A deep understanding of business elites and affluent customers
    3. The ability to deliver impactful and impressive presentations in English
    In addition to my regular duties, I often served as an interpreter for top executives during meetings with foreign government officials. I also had opportunities to introduce aspects of Japan—such as our national character and consumer preferences—to leadership teams in both the German and British companies.
    As a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding guests from a wide range of countries especially after the pandemic, including the US, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Ireland, Norway, Sweden, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

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    Jun 14, 2026
    tiffany_w
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Phenomenal experiance
    Hideki san was an amazing guide. He was incredibly knowledgable…

    Jun 13, 2026
    Joshua_A
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The Best Guide I Had in Japan
    Hideki was, without question, my…

    May 2, 2026
    Bruce G
    Our guide (Hideki san) was a master. It was a rainy day and he suggested a new plan in anticipation…

    Apr 30, 2026
    johnbD9596UO
    Lovely Private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I had a great…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Sushi Making Tokyo

    Tokyo in One Day: Sushi Making Tokyo

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Grand Hyatt Tokyo
    • 10:10 Through Roppongi Sakurazaka to Azabu-Juban Station
    • 10:30 From Azabu-Juban to Shiodome, Hama-rikyu Gardens
    • 11:00 Stroll through Hama-rikyu, take a break at Nakajima Teahouse with a matcha and Japanese sweets set
    • 12:30 From Shimbashi Station take the Toei Asakusa Line to Asakusa Station
    • 13:10 From Komagatado to Kaminarimon, Hozomon, Yogodo
    • 13:55 Sushi Making Tokyo
    • 15:40 Via the Asakusa Line and Higashi-Ginza to Roppongi Station, Mori Garden, Grand Hyatt
    • 16:20 End at the hotel lobby

    What's a Rainy-Day Private Cherry Blossom Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Hamarikyu, Asakusa, and Sushi Making Since rain was forecast for the afternoon, I focused the day on seeing cherry blossoms, and proposed starting at Hamarikyu, then heading to Ueno, and visiting the Tokyo National Museum if it started to rain. We walked along Roppongi Sakurazaka, which begins right beside the Hotel, and made our way to Azabu-Juban. The guests were delighted by the rows of cherry trees and the falling blossoms that had begun to scatter, and I took several photos for them. Just before we reached Azabu-Juban, it began to rain earlier than forecast. By the time we arrived at Shiodome Station it was raining quite hard, but the guests said they didn't mind the rain, so we continued on to Hamarikyu. A volunteer guide at Hamarikyu (a licensed guide-interpreter I know) told us that the cherry blossoms in front of the inner gate were beautiful, so we headed straight there. As the rain did not let up, we discussed what to do next at a rest area. When I mentioned the Tokyo National Museum or, if there was availability, a sushi-making experience, the guests preferred the latter, so I booked the 2:00 p.m. session at Sushi Making Tokyo. Since that would mean a late lunch, we moved to the Nakajima Teahouse and took a break with a matcha and Japanese sweets set. After that, we moved to Asakusa, where I first told the story of the origin of Sensoji Temple at Komagatado, then passed through Kaminarimon and Hozomon to Yogodo, so the guests could obtain the goshuincho (temple stamp book) they had requested in our earlier exchanges. Then, five minutes before the reservation, we arrived at Sushi Making Tokyo. The guests had mentioned, "We were asked to bring back KitKats from Japan, but we don't know where they're sold and we have no time to go and buy them," so during the experience I went to the Don Quijote in the Rokku district and bought them on their behalf. On the way back, we made a short detour to view the cherry blossoms at Mori Garden before parting ways in the Hotel lobby. The weather was not on our side, but the guests seemed very satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAzabu-Juban～Shiodome180JPY
    Section 2SubwayShimbashi～Asakusa220JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa～Roppongi290JPY
    Total690JPY

    Tour Report by Tatsuki

    I am Tatsuki Endo, English speaking guide, as well as Kikisake-shi (Sommelier of Sake) and Beer navigator.
    My usual activity is walking tours around Tokyo area, including Yokohama, Kamakura and Hakone. There are a lot to see, just let me know what your interests are and I can suggest where to visit.

    If you are interested in hidden gem, here are some examples;

    Kawasaki, located between Tokyo and Yokohama near Haneda Airport, is the second station of the fifty-three stations of the Tokaido, the 400 years old highway towards Kyoto from Edo (old name of Tokyo). You can do Hand-cut glass experiment, stopping at a bar for sake tasting, visiting Kawasaki-Daishi temple that receives 3 million worshippers in the new year period.

    Another spot is Echigo-Yuzawa in Niigata prefecture, 75 minutes from Tokyo by Shinkansen train. Echigo-Yuzawa is “Onsen” (hot springs) town. You can enjoy visiting Sake brewery, skiing in winter, veiwing Sakura (cherry blossom) in spring. Appreciation of contemporary art displays in open air and old carvings at temples, in neighboring towns will be also memorable experience.

    I am so excited to show you around !

    Tatsuki
    Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English)
    Kikisake-shi (Sommelier of Sake)
    Beer Navigator

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    Aug 30, 2026
    EMLDavisCA
    Great private walking tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tatsuki Endo was…

    Jul 22, 2026
    melanierK3084ZH
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Memorable!
    Our private tour with Tatsuki was fabulous! He was friendly,…

    Jun 28, 2026
    Narzahni_C
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent Tour Guide
    I had a wonderful experience with Tatsuki. He was…

    May 27, 2026
    nomadicmongrel
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great introduction to the city
    Tatsuki Endo showed us around some Tokyo…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Tofuku-ji Temple & Otesuji Shopping Arcade

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Tofuku-ji Temple & Otesuji Shopping Arcade

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30　Meet at the hotel
    • 9:00　Tofuku-ji Temple
    • 10:00　Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 11:20　Otesuji Shopping Arcade
    • 12:00　Tour ends at Otesuji

    What Is a Private Kyoto Tour of Tofukuji and Fushimi Inari Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group from Europe. The night before, they had enjoyed sake until around 2 a.m. with friends who were also visiting Japan from Europe, so they appeared somewhat tired overall. At Tofukuji Temple, they looked a little sleepy at first, but they showed strong interest in the scale and beauty of the temple buildings and took many photographs. They also appreciated that the crowds were relatively light. At Fushimi Inari Taisha, the crowds were noticeable as it was a Saturday, but when I explained the legends of the "Omokaru-ishi" stone and the "Neagari-no-matsu" pine, they were intrigued and enjoyed the experience. The lunch originally planned at the sake brewery street in Fushimi and at a restaurant there was canceled, as the guests did not wish to have sake, and instead I guided them to an udon restaurant and a matcha cafe as requested. Since they had not eaten breakfast, they wished to eat early, and the tour ended a little earlier than scheduled. The atmosphere was pleasant throughout, and overall the guests seemed satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Tofuku-ji150JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari～Momoyama-goryo-mae240JPY
    Total390JPY

    Tour Report by Umi

    Hello! My name is Umi. I was born and raised in Kyoto, and I still live here today.

    I have always loved traveling. When I visit another country, I enjoy learning about its history, culture, and way of life from local people. Talking with locals helps me understand a place much better than simply visiting famous sights. That’s why I became a tour guide.

    Through my tours, I hope to help visitors gain a deeper understanding of Japan. In addition to its beauty and traditions, I am also happy to talk about modern life in Japan. My goal is for my guests to leave Japan with wonderful memories and a deeper appreciation of the country.

    I’m looking forward to meeting you!

    Request Booking

    Jun 29, 2026
    U3009CHlaurad
    Kyoto 4 Hour walking Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Umi was a great tour guide, very…

    May 9, 2026
    Adventurer745194
    Lovely intro to Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a lovely morning guided by Umi.…

    Apr 30, 2026
    jonathangG3501FZ
    4 hour private tour in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Umi was a lovely tour guide…

    Apr 27, 2026
    Jennifer_S
    Wonderful, thoughtful guide
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Umi was absolutely wonderful. She…

  • Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 09:00 Tour Start
    • Travel on foot to Kenrokuen
    • AM 09:15-10:00 Tour Kenrokuen Garden
    • AM 10:00- 11:00 Kanazawa Castle Park: Tour Hishi Yagura, Gojukken Nagaya, Hashizumemon Tsuzuki Yagura
    • Travel on foot via Gyokusen'in and Oyama Shrine to the Nagamachi Samurai District
    • AM 11:30- PM 12:45 Nagamachi Samurai District: Tour Nomura Family Residence and Takada Family Residence
    • Travel by bus to Omicho Market PM 13:00 Tour End

    Title: What's a Private Cherry Blossom Tour of Kanazawa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. There had been only a single contact from a travel agency, with an email saying the guests' preferred destinations would be shared at a later date, but no further communication followed. Even so, I was able to meet the guests without any trouble at the hotel pickup location. On the day of the tour, I asked about their preferred destinations, and they enjoyed Kanazawa with the cherry blossoms in full bloom. Toward the end of the tour, the guests wished to have lunch at Omicho Market, so I guided them there and the tour concluded.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKorinbo / Hokuriku Railroad Bus～Musashigatsuji・Omicho Market / 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…

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

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

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Gather at Hotel Monterey Kyoto
    • 9:20 Yasaka Pagoda ~ Yasaka Koshindo ~ Sannenzaka
    • 9:50 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 11:35 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 12:20 Lunch at Tonkatsu Katsurai
    • 14:10 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 15:00 Disband at the Second Torii Gate of Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like from a Licensed Guide? A JGA Guide's Report Today I guided a group visiting from Europe on a private one-day tour of Kyoto, part of a larger journey covering Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, and Takayama. In contrast to yesterday's rain, the weather was clear and sunny, and the falling cherry blossoms were beautiful, making it a perfect day for sightseeing. Since we started early in the morning, both Sannenzaka and Kiyomizu-dera were not very crowded, so we were able to look around at a relaxed pace. We then moved on to Kinkaku-ji, which was also not too crowded, and the guests were very pleased to be able to take many beautiful photos. We had a tonkatsu lunch at a restaurant near Kinkaku-ji, which the guests seemed to enjoy. Finally, we visited Fushimi Inari Taisha, which fortunately was also not very crowded, so we could explore it at a leisurely pace, and I believe the guests were delighted.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusShijo Karasuma (Subway Shijo Station) / Kyoto City Bus～Kiyomizu-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2BusKinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus～Kitaoji Bus Terminal (Subway Kitaoji Station) / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3SubwayKitaoji～Kyoto260JPY
    Section 4TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Total870JPY

    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 Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Hotel ~ Walk ~ 8:56 Kyoto Station ~ JR ~ 9:01 Inari Station ~ Fushimi Inari Taisha ~ 10:14 Fushimi Inari Station ~ Keihan ~ 10:19 Shichijo Station ~ 10:30 Sanjusangendo ~ Taxi ~ 11:30 Yasaka Pagoda, Konpira ~ 12:00 Yasaka Shrine ~ Gion 12:40 End

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Sanjusangendo, and Geisha Culture The guests were very lovely visitors from Europe. They were polite and friendly, and they listened attentively to the explanations. They had a keen interest in Japanese culture and enjoyed appreciating the shrines, temples, and geisha culture. They also asked many questions, such as what the Kannon statues at Sanjusangendo are made of, how much it costs to donate a torii gate at Fushimi Inari, and the differences between Buddhism and Shinto. They took many photographs as well. They mentioned that they had learned about Japanese culture through anime.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari～Shichijo180JPY
    Total330JPY

    Tour Report by Hiromi

    I would like to show you Japanese old temples, shrines and castles. Kansai area that covers Kyoto, Nara and Osaka has a long history. Each sites has a old interesting story. Let me tell you about it. And I will show you unique local landscapes.
    Japan is proud of its culture. I have learned tea ceremony, Japanese archery, calligraphy and Japanese dancing. I will tell you some parts of them.
    I love nature. Japan is also a country of beauiful nature. Since I love bird watching and growing plants, I would like to see flowers, trees and birds with mountains and rivers.
    I was born and brought up in Osaka. I have been working as a tour guide for many years. I enjoy guiding my guests in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka. I am waiting for you!

    Request Booking

    Apr 5, 2026
    Climber41386953072
    Perfect personalized Tour!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    It was a great private Tour with a kind…

    May 13, 2025
    G1042AProbertg
    Fantastic Way to See Kyoto with a Local!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hiromi was such a…

    Apr 18, 2025
    Emma C
    Wonderful day with Hiromi
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful day with Hiromi!…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Peace Memorial Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Peace Memorial Park

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

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at the Cruise Ship Terminal
    • 11:00-13:50 Miyajima
    • 15:10-15:40 Shukkeien Garden
    • 16:00-17:20 Peace Memorial Park
    • 17:50 Disband at the Cruise Ship Terminal

    Can You Do a Private Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They often travel the world by cruise ship, and this time as well they continued their journey by cruise ship after arriving in Japan. The weather was excellent, with no wind—perfect conditions for sightseeing—and they thoroughly enjoyed Miyajima, Shukkeien Garden, and the cherry blossoms in full bloom at Miyajima. One of the guests enjoys playing golf and watching Japanese sumo on television, was very knowledgeable about Japanese sumo wrestlers, and mentioned being a fan of Ura. At the Peace Memorial Park, since the guests originally came from Asia, I felt they resonated with the idea that, while Hiroshima was indeed a victim, we must not forget that Japan as a whole also had aspects of being an aggressor toward other Asian countries.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherUjina Port～Miyajima1,150JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi～Hiroshima420JPY
    Section 3BusShukkeien-mae～Kamiyacho / JR Bus Chugoku240JPY
    Total1,810JPY

    Tour Report by TO

    Hi! My name is Kazuhisa To. I was born in Nagasaki Prefecture and spent a total of approximately 17 years there. After graduating from university and completing graduate school, I moved to Hiroshima in 1984. Hiroshima has been my home base for more than 42 years, including approximately five and a half years during which I was posted to Germany and the United States. I worked as an engineer at Mazda Motor Corporation for 40 years. While working at Mazda, I earned a Ph.D. in Engineering through a doctoral program designed for working professionals at a national university. During the final five years of my career at Mazda, I was assigned to Hiroshima University, where I served as a Specially Appointed Professor and Deputy Director of a research center. In this role, I led the development of the center’s organizational and operational framework and advanced more than 20 industry–university collaborative research projects across four major research programs, contributing to regional revitalization. Living in Nagasaki, Hiroshima, Germany, and the United States has deepened my appreciation for the distinct histories and cultures of different regions and broadened my international perspective. Drawing on these experiences, I strive to offer tours that allow guests from around the world to feel comfortable and relaxed while enjoying a genuinely engaging experience. After retiring from Mazda at the end of March 2024, I embarked on a new chapter in my life as a licensed local guide in Hiroshima. In addition to renowned destinations such as Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima, I am delighted to introduce guests to Hiroshima’s history, culture, natural beauty, local cuisine, and everyday life, tailoring each tour to their individual interests and preferences. It is my sincere hope that every guest will enjoy a truly personal and memorable experience while discovering the authentic spirit of Hiroshima. I very much look forward to welcoming you to Hiroshima!

    Request Booking

    Sep 28, 2026
    anita2336
    The best time in Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    This was one of…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Mostew
    Private tour with To – Hiroshima / Miyajima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    We…

    Aug 30, 2026
    644lucys
    Fantastic guide, full and wonderful day.
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Today we had…

    Jul 21, 2026
    anza
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Excellent Walking Tour with Kazuhisa To
    We had a…

  • Mie in Half a Day: Worship at Geku & Worship at Naiku

    Mie in Half a Day: Worship at Geku & Worship at Naiku

    Ise Jingu Shrine Half-Day Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 07:45-08:00　Move from hotel to Geku (Outer Shrine)
    • 08:00-09:00　Worship at Geku (Outer Shrine)
    • 09:00-09:30　Move from Geku to Naiku (Inner Shrine)
    • 09:30-11:15　Worship at Naiku (Inner Shrine)
    • 11:15-11:45　Rest at Akafuku, then finish

    What Is a Private Ise Jingu Shrine Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. Despite the unfortunate wind and rain, I was able to explain the Geku (Outer Shrine) and Naiku (Inner Shrine) of Ise Jingu. I received many questions, such as why the Shikinen Sengu (periodic rebuilding of the shrine) is carried out and why it takes place every 20 years, and I answered each one carefully and thoroughly. In addition to explaining the main highlights, I also pointed out interesting spots that many visitors tend to overlook. I believe the guests gained a good understanding of the origins of Ise Jingu, why so many people come to worship there, and the meaning of the Sengu, and that they spent a meaningful and enjoyable time.

    Click here for more details: Ise Jingu Shrine Half-Day Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherFukiage／Mie Kotsu～Geku-mae／Mie Kotsu200JPY
    Section 2BusGeku-mae／Mie Kotsu～Naiku-mae／Mie Kotsu520JPY
    Total720JPY

    Tour Report by Henry

    Hi, I am your guide Henry. Henry Kurata
    I have experience of visiting more than 40 different countries in the world and stayed in USA and UK more than total of 10 years as for expats of Automotive components manufacturer. Since I have decent knowledge about Japanese culture and history. I am pretty much for sure I can be your assistant wherever you go, whatever your interest is. I would help you to have unforgettable experience either in popular place or off the beaten track throughout in Japan.
    If you care about flowering cherry in Japan, I am right person you can trust since I am an enthusiast on researching and watching many different species throughout in Japan. I hope I can meet you in Japan in near future.
    Your wish for wonder is my command.
    Thank you very much!

    Request Booking

    Jun 23, 2026
    Andrew_M
    Viator review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Henry is a wonderful guide
    We had a fantastic…

    May 6, 2026
    albypoo
    Tripadvisor review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Unforgettable day at Ise Jingu with Henry
    We were…

    May 6, 2026
    s0ranet
    Tripadvisor review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    充実したツアーでありがとうございました！
    GW期間中で他のツアーがすべて満席だったため、こちらからプライベートガイドを申し込みました。予約サイトから英語のメールが届き、ガイドの倉田さんと直接やり取りをして進める流れでした。

    プライベートツアーを利用するのは初めてだったのですが、ガイドの倉田さんが本当に「神対応」でした！GWの混雑などで私たちが2時間も遅刻してしまったのですが、スケジュールを柔軟に調整してくださり、とても親切に迎えてくださいました。

    伊勢神宮の外宮から内宮をご案内いただいたのですが、知識が大変豊富で、こちらの質問にも的確に答えてくださり、とても充実した時間を過ごすことができました。ユーモアたっぷりでウィットに富んだ素晴らしいお人柄なので、一緒にお話ししていて本当に楽しいです！

    日本語と英語の両方でご対応いただけるそうなので、このサイトを利用する海外の旅行者の方にも強くおすすめします。今回このツアーに申し込んで大正解でした。最高の旅行の思い出をありがとうございました。

    May 1, 2026
    J1543OM_
    Tripadvisor review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    初お伊勢さん
    本日は大変貴重なお時間をいただきありがとうございました。とてもわかりやすい倉田さんのガイドで4時間とても充実した時間を過ごさせていたきました。はじめての伊勢神宮をとても満喫できました。また何かの機会があったら、倉田さんよろしくお願いします。