Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 08:50 Meet @Hotel 〈Shinjuku Gyoen-mae〉
    • 2. 09:00 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 09:40 Stay @Nezu Shrine
    • 4. 10:15 Travel: Subway
    • 5. 10:35 Stay @Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 6. 11:50 Travel: Train
    • 7. 12:20 Stay @Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 8. 13:10 Disband @Hamarikyu Gardens Otemon Gate

    Title: What Can You See on a 4-Hour Private Tokyo Walking Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Although they did not have a messaging app account, we were able to stay in touch easily through text messages sent from a mobile phone number. The private tour by a [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide covered three locations in Tokyo: Nezu Shrine, the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, and Hamarikyu Gardens. Although it rained heavily in the afternoon, we were able to get through most of the tour without using umbrellas. One of the guests loved plants and, at both the East Gardens and Hamarikyu, took keen interest not only in the cherry blossoms but also in the camellias, eagerly taking photographs. We spent a bit longer at the East Gardens, but since the guests were both strong walkers, we were able to visit all three locations comfortably within four hours. After strolling through Hamarikyu, I guided them to the restaurant floor of Caretta Shiodome across the way before we parted.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinjuku Gyoen-mae～Nezu210JPY
    Section 2SubwayNezu～Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 3TrainTokyo～Shimbashi160JPY
    Total550JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

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

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    Sep 29, 2026
    Y9791IZnicks
    Making the most of a rainy day
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Sam was a wonderful…

    Sep 25, 2026
    910lorig
    Best experience for a perfect day in Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Best…

    Sep 15, 2026
    R8612KOjanicea
    Highly recommend 👍
    Tripadvisor review: Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Sam, was amazing!!…

    Sep 1, 2026
    greasygrandpa
    First Day In Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our tour guide Sam was very knowledgeable…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Shibuya

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Shibuya

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at Hotel
    • 8:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 10:20 Nezu Shrine
    • 12:00 Shibuya
    • 12:20 Lunch
    • 13: 10 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 14:00 End at Shinjuku Station East Exit

    What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like in Cherry Blossom Season? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. We met at the hotel as scheduled, and the tour proceeded without any issues, following the plan we had confirmed in advance. Although the weather was less than ideal in the morning with cold rain, we visited tranquil places such as Meiji Shrine and Nezu Shrine, so the rainy atmosphere was not unpleasant at all. In the afternoon the weather recovered, and the guests were surprised by the lively, bustling atmosphere of Shibuya, which was the complete opposite of the morning. By the time we reached Shinjuku Gyoen, the weather had improved, and I was able to have them fully enjoy the cherry blossoms in full bloom. Afterward, we walked together to Shinjuku Station, where the tour concluded.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHibiya～Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nezu210JPY
    Section 3SubwayNezu～Shibuya210JPY
    Section 4SubwayShibuya～Shinjuku-gyoemmae180JPY
    Total780JPY

    Tour Report by Takeshi

    Welcome to Japan!
    My name is Takeshi Yamada, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter based in the vibrant city of Yokohama, Kanagawa.
    Born and raised in Minamiuonuma City, Niigata Prefecture, renowned for its exquisite rice and sake, I deeply appreciate Japan’s culinary delights. I love sharing laughs, exploring diverse cultures and histories, and playing tennis.
    I specialize in guiding tours around Yokohama, Kamakura, Fuji-Hakone, Tokyo, and the surrounding Kanto areas. With years of experience in multinational corporations, I excel in English communication and making foreign visitors feel at home.
    Whether you’re interested in historical landmarks, authentic cultural experiences, savoring Japanese cuisine, enjoying lively Izakaya spots, or soaking in urban energy, my tours are tailored to your interests. I am committed to providing exceptional service, ensuring each guest receives personalized attention and creates unforgettable memories.
    My greatest joy is seeing my guests fall in love with Japan, taking home cherished memories and a deeper understanding of this beautiful country.
    I look forward to meeting you and being your friendly, knowledgeable guide.

    See you soon!

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    Jun 5, 2026
    cathywB8167WE
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Great 8 hour tour of Tokyo
    Takeshi was great with…

    May 13, 2026
    Kim_T
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Experience Tokyo like a local…,
    It was a wonderful way…

    May 11, 2026
    Trenee_J
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Takeshi did an amazing…
    Takeshi did an amazing job helping us plan…

    Apr 17, 2026
    Dianne_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Takeshi was our guide. He…
    Takeshi was our guide. He…

  • Tokyo: Tsukiji

    Tokyo: Tsukiji

    Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 05:00 Meet in front of the main gate of Toyosu Market
    • 05:00-05:30 Advance explanation of related information such as tuna catching methods, how the auction proceeds, collection methods, and the roles of wholesalers and intermediate wholesalers
    • 05:30-06:00 Watch the tuna auction
    • 06:00-07:00 Sushi breakfast at a sushi restaurant inside Toyosu Market
    • 07:00-07:15 Move to Tsukiji
    • 07:15-08:00 Stroll through Tsukiji Inner Market
    • 08:00 Disband at Tsukiji

    Title: What's a Private Tsukiji Tuna Auction and Sushi Tour Like in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. Some of the guests were looking forward to the tuna auction, and they asked many questions right after we met. Because it was very early in the morning, some of the guests seemed sleepy at first and a little low on energy, but once the auction began, they leaned in and watched intently. When we left the auction area, they happily told me how interesting it had been. At the sushi restaurant after the auction, some of the guests enjoyed a tuna-focused meal while others had grilled eel over rice, and everyone seemed to enjoy it in their own way. Those who had the tuna enjoyed comparing the flavors of the different cuts, and they said that medium-fatty tuna (chutoro) was their favorite. At Tsukiji, I showed the group the wholesalers' shops, and I believe they came to understand how tuna is prepared and sold to restaurants and sushi shops. Since one of the guests enjoys cooking, I guided them to a specialty shop for Japanese kitchen knives. They picked up the knives to feel the difference in weight balance between Japanese and Western knives, as well as the difference in the grip, and in the end they happily purchased one Japanese knife for cutting meat. Finally, they enjoyed a strawberry daifuku. Since they planned to head to teamLab in Kamiyacho after this tour, I explained how to get from Tsukiji Station to Kamiyacho and ended the tour. At the end of the tour, the guests gave me a gift. It was completely unexpected, so I was truly moved. When I thought about how they had brought a tote bag and chocolate all the way from overseas, I felt that I had never received a greater thank-you. Since some of the guests are still young, they declined to have their photos published, so instead I am uploading a photo of the souvenir I received. After viewing it, please feel free to delete it as appropriate.

    Click here for more details: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusToyosu Market／Toei Bus～Tsukiji 6-chome／Toei Bus210JPY
    Total210JPY

    Tour Report by Toru

    Hello, I am Toru, a certified National Guide. I have been guiding since 2017, primarily in the Tokyo area, which includes Hakone, Kamakura, and Yokohama. To make your stay in Japan unforgettable, I always discuss a tour plan with my guests via email before their arrival. Please share your preferences, including the places you’d like to visit and the experiences you’d like to try during your stay in Tokyo. If this is your first visit to Japan, I’m excited to help make your time in Tokyo even more enjoyable by suggesting sample itineraries and offering travel tips.

    For more information about me, please visit my profile site.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/hello-welcome-to-japan/
    For your reference, please feel free to visit my blog, which features popular sightseeing spots and interesting experiences.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/

    I look forward to meeting you soon!

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    Sep 25, 2026
    robert_s
    Fantastic experience!
    Viator review: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide
    We had a tour booked with Toru…

    Sep 24, 2026
    Pamela_S
    Ask for Toru!
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our travel date for this tour…

    Sep 13, 2026
    S4579HLmaxf
    An unforgettable morning at Toyosu
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide
    Outstanding experience at the…

    Sep 7, 2026
    Victor_G
    All the temples and…
    Viator review: Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    All the temples and shrines were fantastic.…

  • Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour

    Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour

    Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9：00 Hotel ー9:42 Miyanoura Port ー10:30 Chichu Art Museum ー13:30 Lee Ufan Museum ー14:30 Valley Gallery ー15:50 Benesse House Museum ー16:30 Outdoor Exhibition ー16：50 Hotel Park

    What's a Private Naoshima Art Island Tour Like on a Rainy Day? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. The two younger members of the group were lively and got along wonderfully, which was a pleasure to see. It rained all day today, but the group did not mind and enjoyed the tour together. While younger travelers sometimes lose interest easily, these guests were different — they were very curious and listened attentively to the educational explanations shared among the group. What surprised me even more was one member's excellent sense of direction, so strong that I wondered if they had an internal compass. The one disappointing point was that the popular exhibit, the yellow "Pumpkin" by Yayoi Kusama, had been temporarily removed since the previous day. The reason was to protect it from the strong winds. Come to think of it, this pumpkin was destroyed by a typhoon more than seven years ago. What made me break out in a cold sweat was the realization that if these strong winds had occurred today, the ferry from Uno to Naoshima would surely have been suspended, even if only for a few hours. Thinking about it this way, I was truly relieved that we were able to carry out the tour safely.

    Click here for more details: Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherUno Port～Miyanoura Port (Naoshima)740JPY
    Total740JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

    My name is Susumu Hiramatsu. I am a national government licensed guide interpreter. I became a guide interpreter in 1992. My educational background started with a BA in law, then an MA in English language education, and completed a doctoral course without a degree in English language teaching. My occupational career began with a bank officer, then shifted to a translation and interpretation company, finally became a freelance translator, interpreter, and college teacher. I handle conference interpretation, namely simultaneous interpretation. As for the guide interpreter, my interest covers wide areas including politics and business, but I deem cultural aspects to be fundamental. I am always encouraging myself to be filled with Japanese hospitality.

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    Jun 20, 2025
    NinjaTwins2013
    Kurashiki walking tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kurashiki Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We enjoyed our walking tour of Kurashiki. Our guide…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Enter Meiji Shrine & Asakusa Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Enter Meiji Shrine & Asakusa Shrine

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00　Meet at Hilton Tokyo (Shinjuku)
    • 08:00–08:20　Travel by taxi to Harajuku Station (Takeshita Exit)
    • 08:20–08:30　Assistance purchasing IC card (Suica) at Harajuku Station
    • 08:35　Enter Meiji Shrine
    • 08:35–09:30　Meiji Shrine visit and guided tour
    • 09:30　Exit via the North Approach Gate
    • 09:30–09:50　Walk to Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 09:50　Enter Shinjuku Gyoen (Sendagaya Gate)
    • 09:50–10:45　Stroll through Shinjuku Gyoen (cherry blossoms, Japanese garden, etc.)
    • 10:45　Exit via the Shinjuku Gate
    • 10:45–11:00　Walk to Shinjuku Station
    • 11:00　Depart Shinjuku Station (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 11:25　Arrive at Shibuya Station
    • 11:25–11:35　View the Shibuya Scramble Crossing (from the overhead walkway)
    • 11:40　Depart Shibuya Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 12:15　Arrive at Tawaramachi Station
    • 12:30–13:20　Lunch (Asakusa Soba Tempura Towada)
    • 13:40　Visit Senso-ji Temple
    • 13:50　Visit Asakusa Shrine
    • 14:00–14:20 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center (Observation Deck)
    • 14:30　Tour ends on the 1st floor of the same facility

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Shibuya, and Asakusa The tour started in light rain, but the cherry blossoms were in full bloom at both Meiji Shrine and Shinjuku Gyoen, and at Meiji Shrine we were also able to see a ceremony. Overall, the first half received a very positive response. On the other hand, since we continued on foot from Meiji Shrine to Shinjuku Gyoen and then to Shinjuku Station, and because it was the day after their arrival in Japan, some signs of fatigue became apparent toward the latter half. In particular, the reaction at the scramble crossing upon arriving in Shibuya was not as strong as I had expected. When boarding the Ginza Line, I chose to wait for a train departing from the terminal so that everyone could be seated, but they appeared a little tired as soon as they sat down. We arrived in Asakusa around 12:15, as planned. Initially the plan was to have a light meal along Nakamise-dori and similar areas, but after discussing it during the Ginza Line ride to Asakusa, the guests expressed a preference to dine at a restaurant, so I took them to a tempura soba shop. Due to the crowding at the shop and the cooking time, it took a while for the food to be served, resulting in a stay of about one hour. As a result, the sightseeing time in Asakusa was limited, so I changed the original route of "Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center → Kaminarimon → Nakamise-dori → main hall" and guided them to the main hall first instead. In the end, I guided them through Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, and the observation deck of the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, ending the tour at that facility, but overall the latter half proceeded at a somewhat rushed pace. Based on this experience, I recognized that, especially for tours with an early morning start, it is important to set a break at a midpoint and to manage meal times. Going forward, I will make an effort to communicate more clearly about meal content and required time, both in advance and on the day, in order to maintain overall balance in the tour operation. The guests were visitors from Europe, and after Tokyo they were also planning private tours in Kyoto and Osaka, and they appeared accustomed to overseas travel and guided tours. In the preliminary discussions as well, they left the itinerary entirely up to the guide, and I sensed a high level of expectation for the guiding content. There are no special notes regarding the work.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Shibuya200JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya～Tawaramachi (Tokyo)260JPY
    Total460JPY

    Tour Report by HelloTakeshi

    Hello, my name is Takeshi. I am a national government licensed guide interpreter with over 35 years of professional experience in Japan. Through my long career, I have developed a deep understanding of modern Japan, including its business culture, social customs, and everyday life. Originally from Kobe, I have lived in more than 20 places across Japan and the United States, which has given me a broad and flexible perspective on regional cultures and lifestyles. I am also deeply interested in historical Japan, especially Japanese religion and Buddhism, and I enjoy sharing cultural background in an easy-to-understand way. I am looking forward to meeting you and exploring Japan together.

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    Sep 25, 2026
    olivier_F
    Enrichissante visite
    Viator review: Tsukiji & Toyosu Market Local Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Une visite très enrichissante que je conseille…

    Sep 13, 2026
    710anhc
    Tokyo Tour .
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Takeshi is very friendly and kind,…

    Aug 26, 2026
    N
    nahomiep824
    Takeshi, Our Tour Guide, Made All The Difference!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    My visit…

    Aug 5, 2026
    xanthyh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Expert tour guide
    Takeshi is an outstanding guide whose…

  • Osaka: Kofuku-ji Temple & Kasuga Taisha Shrine

    Osaka: Kofuku-ji Temple & Kasuga Taisha Shrine

    Nara Day Trip from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meeting point: AirBnB (Nihonbashi)
    • 09:40 Travel from Osaka (Kintetsu Nihonbashi) to Nara (Kintetsu Nara)
    • 10:20 Sightseeing ①: Visit Kofuku-ji Temple
    • 11:20 Sightseeing ②: Nara Park & deer viewing
    • 12:30 Lunch & break
    • 13:45 Sightseeing ③: Visit Todai-ji Great Buddha Hall
    • 15:00 Sightseeing ④: Visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 16:50 Travel from Nara (Kintetsu Nara) to Osaka (Nihonbashi)
    • 17:30 Guide ends in front of the hotel

    What Is a Private 8-Hour Day Trip from Osaka to Nara Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests this time were a group visiting Japan from North America. Discussions about the destinations were carried out with one of the guests. There was only one day between when the assignment was confirmed and the tour day itself, so I was a little worried about whether we would be able to communicate smoothly, but the guests kept in touch efficiently, and I was able to confirm the itinerary, including the destinations, on the very day the assignment was confirmed. On the day, when I went to pick up the guests at the hotel in Osaka about 20 minutes before the meeting time, they were already waiting at the entrance. We exchanged brief self-introductions and greetings, and confirmed the itinerary. Some of the guests still used a buggy (stroller) for getting around. At this point, I understood that this group was punctual, that we should allow plenty of time and move at a relaxed pace, and that we should use elevators and escalators as much as possible at stations and other places. The full itinerary was "8 hours, round trip from Osaka, sightseeing in Nara." Excluding the round-trip travel time between Osaka and Nara (about 2 hours in total), this left "6 hours of sightseeing in Nara," and starting from the closest to Kintetsu Nara Station, the route was: Kofuku-ji Temple → Nara Park → lunch and break (at "Yume Kaze Hiroba," near Todai-ji) → Todai-ji Temple → Kasuga Taisha Shrine → bus to Kintetsu Nara Station. The weather forecast for the day was "cloudy with occasional rain," and I was worried about heavy rain, but fortunately, except for a downpour at Kasuga Taisha at the very end, we were not troubled by rain. Guiding "effectively 6 hours of sightseeing in Nara" presents quite a challenging task in terms of making sure every one of the guests is fully satisfied. Talking about Japanese culture and history is a matter of course, but such stories can be hard to grasp for younger members of the group. I have always considered guiding groups with young children to be one of my strengths, but in practice it can be quite difficult. Fortunately, Nara has "wild deer," an "entertainer" that everyone can enjoy, which was a great help. After lunch, we took about 30 minutes for "time to play with the deer," and after I explained the precautions for feeding the deer crackers, the group enjoyed it to the fullest. Finally, let me share a "heartwarming incident" that happened on the train to Nara. On the Kintetsu train bound for Nara, a fellow passenger seated next to me was watching the group of sightseeing guests, including myself, with a smile. When that passenger got off, they placed a "strawberry-shaped piece of origami" into the hand of one of the guests. It happened in an instant, and although I said thank you, I was not able to ask their name, but the guests were delighted by this sudden gift from a stranger. After that, the origami strawberry was held in hand throughout the Nara tour. It was a small, unexpected happening on the train, but it seems to have become a memorable episode for the guests as well. Guided tours with young children come with many challenges, but they are fundamentally enjoyable. This time, too, I reaffirmed that.

    Click here for more details: Nara Day Trip from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNihonbashi (Osaka)～Kintetsu Nara680JPY
    Section 2BusKasuga Taisha Main Shrine／Nara Kotsu～Kintetsu Nara Station／Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Section 3TrainKintetsu Nara～Nihonbashi (Osaka)680JPY
    Total1,610JPY

    Tour Report by Nori

    Hi, everyone! I’m Norifumi Kamon, a government registered guide interpreter. Please call me “Nori”, or “Kamon-san”.
    Let me introdece myself. I was born on April 17th in 1952 in Miyazaki prefecture in Kyushu island. I used to be an English teacher of Osaka Prefectural high school. When I retired from a teacher ten years ago, I decided to get a professional guide license. I wanted to play a role of the bridge between Japanese people and the people from all over the world as a second life of mine. After two years efforts, I finally got the guide license. Since then, I have guided several handreds of foreign people mainly in Kyoto and Nara for about five years except Corona Pandemic period. Almost all the tourists were deeply impressed by the beauty of nature, traditoin, culture, and art of Japan. I can surely help you enjoy and be satisfied with the sightseeing in Japan. And I’m looking forward to seeing you soon.

    Request Booking

    Aug 10, 2026
    Paul_H
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kind and knowledgeable guide – highly recommended
    Nori communicated…

    Apr 9, 2026
    Ron_W
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We saw so much in the…
    We saw so much in the…

    Mar 24, 2026
    zackn719
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Knowledgeable guide and a great tour
    We did our private tour with…

    Oct 20, 2025
    66speech
    Highlights of Kyoto.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience with Nori. Nori exceeded our expectations with…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Doshisha University Campus

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Doshisha University Campus

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:30 Meet at Double Tree by Hilton Kyoto Station.
    • 13:00 Nijo Castle
    • 14:30 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 16:00　Doshisha University Campus Tour
    • 16:30 Farewell at JR Kyoto Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Kyoto Day Tour by Subway? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nijo Castle and the Imperial Palace The guests were a group visiting from North America, and it was their tenth day of sightseeing in Japan. I had asked in advance through a messaging app about the places they wished to visit. They requested Nijo Castle, the Kyoto Imperial Palace, and Gion, so we traveled around by subway. They seemed captivated by the beauty of the wall paintings and gardens at Nijo Castle. When one of the younger guests asked, "Who is the shogun?" I answered, "He was both a President and a General," and the others nodded in agreement. From the very beginning of our visit to the Kyoto Imperial Palace, I explained that the residence of the Japanese Emperor is not as opulent as Buckingham Palace, and as I spoke about the Japanese sense of beauty, they understood and agreed, saying, "not flashy." They remarked on how beautiful the palace garden was. Through the messaging app, they had mentioned wanting to see cherry blossoms. Some blossoms still remained at both Nijo Castle and the Kyoto Imperial Palace, and they took photographs. As we were about to head to Gion, they said they had already gone there the day before, so they preferred not to go and instead wished to return to their hotel in Osaka. Therefore, wanting to offer something additional, I guided them through the campus of Doshisha University, located across from the Imperial Palace. They greatly enjoyed the many charming brick buildings and the atmosphere of the campus. I spoke about Joseph Hardy Neesima, the founder of Doshisha University, and let them take a look inside the cafeteria. Before boarding the subway, I guided them to the nearby Reizei family residence, the only remaining aristocratic descendant's house in Kyoto. They were interested to learn that it had produced a renowned poet a thousand years ago. I guided them to the platform for Osaka at JR Kyoto Station and saw them off.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto Station Hachijo Exit／Keihan Kyoto Kotsu～Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 2TrainNijojo-mae～Imadegawa220JPY
    Section 3SubwayImadegawa～Kyoto260JPY
    Total740JPY

    Select a guide: enter the WordPress Guide post ID or Guide ID in the block settings.

    Request Booking

    Apr 4, 2026
    Amaninder_B
    Viator review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Had a nice tour, enjoyed…
    Had a nice tour, enjoyed our time…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Dusit Thani Kyoto Meeting point
    • 10:40~11:30 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 12:00~13:30 Tenryu-ji Temple, Bamboo Grove, Nonomiya Shrine, Togetsukyo Bridge
    • 14:00 Disband at Shijo Kawaramachi

    What Does a Private Kyoto Day Tour Include? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji and Arashiyama The guests came from North America and reached Kyoto via Tokyo and Hakone. Today, following their requests, we visited Kinkaku-ji, Tenryu-ji, the bamboo grove, and Nonomiya Shrine. Although there was some light rain, the atmosphere at Kinkaku-ji was calm and moist, and the guests were deeply moved by the elegant and majestic Kinkaku-ji standing before Kyoko-chi Pond, taking many commemorative photos. At Tenryu-ji, they were impressed while looking at the Sogen-chi Garden with Arashiyama borrowed as scenery, and they took many photos with the cherry blossoms in full bloom in the background. After that, we visited the bamboo grove and Nonomiya Shrine, and they took many photos at the Togetsukyo Bridge and along the rows of cherry trees in Arashiyama Park. I saw them off at Kawaramachi Shijo, and since they planned to head from Pontocho to Kiyomizu-dera on their own, we parted ways there.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGojo (Kyoto Municipal)～Kitaoji260JPY
    Section 2TrainArashiyama (Hankyu Line)～Kyoto Kawaramachi240JPY
    Total500JPY

    Tour Report by shige

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

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

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

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

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

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Dotonbori

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Dotonbori

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet @ Citadines Namba Osaka
    • 10:30-12:00 @ Osaka Castle
    • 12:30-13:00 @ Kuromon Market
    • 13:15-13:40 @ Shinsekai
    • 13:55-14:15 @ Dotonbori
    • 14:20 Dismiss @ Sennichimae Doguyasuji

    Title: What's a Private Family Tour of Osaka Castle and Shinsekai Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. The booking was made through a travel agency. The night before, heavy rain was forecast for the 9:00 tour start time, so we delayed the start by one hour, but fortunately it only drizzled during the tour. At Osaka Castle, the guests viewed the exhibits attentively and took photos wearing helmets and kimono. In Shinsekai, they took photos with Billiken, enjoyed strawberry candy and ice cream, and it turned into a day full of smiles from start to finish. After the tour, since they wished to purchase kitchen knives, I guided them to Doguyasuji, a shopping street near the hotel, where we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNipponbashi (Osaka)～Tanimachi 4-chome190JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Nipponbashi (Osaka)190JPY
    Section 3SubwayNipponbashi (Osaka)～Ebisucho190JPY
    Section 4SubwayDobutsuen-mae～Namba (Subway)180JPY
    Total750JPY

    Tour Report by Sachiko

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

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

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

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

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

  • Hiroshima in One Day: on Miyajima Island & Sakura Spots Sakura spot

    Hiroshima in One Day: on Miyajima Island & Sakura Spots Sakura spot

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

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:20 a.m. Meet at the Shinkansen exit of Hiroshima Station
    • 10:30 a.m. Arrive on Miyajima Island
    • 10:45 a.m. Visit Itsukushima Shrine
    • 11:20 a.m. Visit Sakura Spots Sakura spot
    • 11;40 a.m. Visit Daishoin Temple
    • 12:40 p.m. Take the direct ferry to the city center (¥2,400 per person)
    • 1:30 p.m. Lunch at Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki restaurant
    • 2:40 p.m. Visit Peace Memorial Park and Peace Memorial Museum
    • 5:15 p.m. End the tour at Hiroshima Station

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima Like During Cherry Blossom Season? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Some of the guests were interested in Japanese culture and anime, and had chosen Japan for their first trip abroad. Although rain had been forecast, the weather improved throughout the day, and they were delighted to enjoy cherry blossoms in full bloom with occasional sunshine. They took many photos of the shrine, the torii gate, the pagoda, and the cherry blossoms. They told me the weather was wonderful, and that compared to Kyoto, Osaka, and Tokyo, which they had visited earlier, there were fewer people, the cherry blossoms were beautiful, and it was the best day of their trip. For lunch, the guests loved the okonomiyaki, saying it was the most delicious thing they had eaten on the entire trip, and I will never forget their beaming smiles. At the Peace Park, they listened attentively to my explanations, and even though the museum was crowded, they viewed the exhibits carefully. Since we had an hour before the bullet train, I guided them to the platform and the souvenir shops, and ended the tour at the Pokémon Center, which the guests loved. They were a very warm group who took photos of many places, including me, and I was truly touched when they said they wanted to include me in their photos because I was an important part of their trip too.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima～Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2OtherMiyajima～Peace Memorial Park1,200JPY
    Total1,620JPY

    Tour Report by Mari

    Hello. My name is Mari.
    I am a certified local tour guide in Hiroshima.

    I was born and grew up in Hiroshima until I entered in a university in Tokyo.
    After 6 years in Tokyo, I came back to Hiroshima because I really love my hometown and wanted to spend the rest of my life here.

    Hiroshima is very comfortable city to live in and rich in nature.
    I am so happy that I have been able to raise my kids here.

    Hiroshima is absolutely full of beautiful and historically important places and also the great food.
    I am so excited to introduce the wonderful experiences here in Hiroshima and hope you will come to love this place, too.
    Look forward to meeting you.

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    Sep 26, 2026
    F1357GRpaulg
    Hiroshima and Miyajima.
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Mari was a delightful guide. We…

    Sep 29, 2026
    Matthew_T
    Do not miss this tour of Hiroshima
    Viator review: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    This was fantastic. Mari…

    Sep 28, 2026
    Passport734191
    As good as it gets in Hiroshima!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    Mari was a very…

    Jul 27, 2026
    Jen_S21
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    The highlight of our trip!
    Mari was an excellent…