Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari & Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari & Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1015: Depart from Hotel
    • Travel by JR
    • 10:40 Fushimi Inari
    • Travel by JR
    • 12:00 Arashiyama
    • Travel by taxi
    • 13:30 Kinkaku-ji

    Title: What Is a Rainy-Season Private Tour of Kyoto's Arashiyama and Kinkaku-ji Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from Europe. Unfortunately it rained, and combined with the cherry blossom season, everywhere was extremely crowded. Perhaps because of this, after walking a little way into the Arashiyama bamboo grove, one of the guests said they would take shelter from the rain and wait. After that they returned to the Hotel by taxi. Since it was their first time in Japan, we visited only the classic spots, so although it was crowded, the guests took lots of photos and seemed to be enjoying themselves. However, they did not have much Japanese cash on hand, and when they tried to withdraw cash by card, it did not work at a convenience store. They found a currency exchange machine near Kinkaku-ji and exchanged money there. We finished the tour and parted ways at Kinkaku-ji.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainInari～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Total390JPY

    Tour Report by Kei

    Hello. I’m YUASA Katsura. Call me just K(Kei). I have been a national government licensed guide interpreter since 2024. I am also teaching English at a university in Nara, so I’m good at explaining even complicated things plainly so that everyone can understand. I hope you will choose me if you would like to learn about Japanese history and traditional culture. I can not only guide you to major tourist sites such as Golden Pavillion in Kyoto and the Great Buddha in Nara but also introduce you hidden gems in Kyoto and Nara. I’m fascinated with charms of these ancient cities. Let’s make your travel to Japan enjoyable and memorable together.

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    Jul 29, 2026
    Charlotte_C
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kei was a wonderful guide…
    Kei was a wonderful…

    May 23, 2026
    allenk947
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Instagram Highlights Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Thoughtful tour with excellent support and service
    The experience and…

    Mar 11, 2026
    K
    ketchbaw
    Great Guide excellent Tour recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Instagram Highlights Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Excellent Guide fun Tour…

    May 1, 2026
    C3857WLstevenk
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour
    My wife and I had a 4hr private tour with…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Market food-walking

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Market food-walking

    Tsukiji Local Food & Culture Half-Day Tour, Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 6:30 Meet at Toyosu Market Block 7, observe the tuna auction
    • 7:00 Take a bus from in front of Shijo-mae Station to Tsukiji Market
    • 7:30 Tsukiji Market food-walking tour
    • 8:00 Take the subway from Higashi-ginza to Asakusa
    • 8:30 Explanation of the mikoshi (portable shrine) at Asakusa Station, Sensoji Temple, Kaminarimon Gate → Many shops on Nakamise were closed, but found open shops to explain → Denboin-dori Street → Hozomon Gate → Five-story Pagoda → omikuji (fortune slips) → Main Hall → Asakusa Shrine
    • 9:30 Take the bus bound for Nippori from Nitenmon Gate
    • 10:00 Stroll around Yanaka Ginza and the residential district
    • 10:30 Disband, guests continue to explore Yanaka Ginza

    What Is a 4-Hour Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a very pleasant group who got along well with one another. They kindly told me they felt lucky to have such a good guide. Since they had arrived in Tokyo earlier and had already seen various places, they were delighted when I explained the sake barrels and wine barrels at Meiji Shrine during our bus ride. From our email exchanges beforehand, I had assumed they were not very interested in history, but they were pleased to learn about the transition from the Edo period to the Meiji era, as well as the relocation of fishermen (from Tsukuda to Nihonbashi, etc.). Because it was a 4-hour tour covering four locations, the time spent at each place was somewhat short, and some of the guests expressed a wish to see more. I think I should have explained this point more clearly when making my proposal.

    Click here for more details: Tsukiji Local Food & Culture Half-Day Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusShijo-mae～Tsukiji 6-chome / Toei Bus210JPY
    Section 2TrainHigashi-ginza～Asakusa220JPY
    Section 3BusNitenmon / Toei Bus～Nippori Station / Toei Bus210JPY
    Total640JPY

    Tour Report by Nikki

    Hello! I’m Nikki, your Guide based in Tokyo.
    I have a deep knowledge of Tokyo’s major sightseeing spots, from world-famous landmarks to hidden local gems. Whether you’re looking for the iconic highlights or the off-the-beaten-path experiences, I can guide you through the city’s rich history and vibrant culture with ease.
    In addition to the classic sights, I offer a unique perspective from my professional background in the housing industry—specifically the design and functionality of Japanese water-related areas like high-tech toilets and bathrooms. If you’ve ever been curious about the secrets behind Japan’s world-famous restrooms and craftsmanship, I’m your expert!
    I am also a passionate lover of architecture as an art form and a dedicated “bakery hunter.” Japanese bread is truly unique, known for its signature fluffy and chewy textures. It has evolved into its own delicious culinary culture, and I have curated a list of the finest artisanal bakeries in Tokyo. I would love to share my favorite spots with you for a perfect snack or breakfast during our tour.
    From the nostalgic charm of local traditional shopping streets to the city’s modern wonders, I specialize in showing you the authentic, lived-in side of Tokyo. Let’s explore it all together!

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    Apr 1, 2026
    DYND30
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Culture Tour
    We had a great tour…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 15:00　Meet up @ LE CAFE V (Ginza)
    • 2. 15:30　@ Tokyo Station (station square, station building, Yaesu-side Shinkansen platform)
    • 3. 16:00　@ Shinjuku (3D cat billboard)
    • 4. 16:20　@ Shibuya (Scramble Crossing + Pepper Parlor in FUKURAS, etc., Hachiko statue, Miyashita Park)
    • 5. 17:30　@ Chidorigafuchi (around Shimizu Gate)
    • 6. 18:30　@ Nakameguro (cherry blossom viewing along the Meguro River)
    • 7. 19:15　@ Roppongi (Roppongi Hills)
    • 8. 19:30　Disband @ Grand Hyatt taxi stand (Roppongi)

    What's a Private Afternoon Sightseeing Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was visiting Japan for the first time from North America. At the guest's request, the meeting was set for 3:00 p.m. at the street-level entrance of a café in Ginza, and we met up without any trouble. It seemed the guest had chosen the destinations based on scenes introduced online. Although I had decided on a route in advance, on the day the guest expressed a wish to see the three-dimensional digital cat on a large screen. Considering an efficient visiting order, I first introduced Tokyo Station, showing the boarding area for the Shinkansen to Kyoto and the taxi stand so the guest could feel reassured, and then we took the Chuo Line to Shinjuku Station. After that, we returned to the originally planned route. The guest filmed videos of the 3D cat advertisement, the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Pepper Parlor, and more. At Chidorigafuchi, the guest seemed amazed by the beauty of the cherry blossoms. By the time we arrived in Nakameguro it had grown dark, but the guest took many photos of the cherry blossoms along the Meguro River. Since the guest would need to depart early the next morning to join a Mount Fuji tour, and above all because jet lag was making it physically demanding, the guest expressed a wish to end the tour a little early and return to the hotel by taxi. As the guest had originally wished to see Tokyo's night views, at Roppongi, which I had set as the final stop, I introduced a spot at Roppongi Hills with a view of Tokyo Tower, and the guest took many photos. The guest boarded a taxi from a hotel within the same commercial complex, and I told the driver the address so the guest could return safely and reliably to the hotel, then saw the guest off.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassYurakucho～Tokyo1,720JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo～Shinjuku0JPY
    Section 3Free PassShinjuku～Shibuya0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Hanzomon Line Shibuya Station～Kudanshita Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassTokyo Metro Tozai Line Kudanshita Station～Hibiya Line Nakameguro Station0JPY
    Section 6Free PassTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Nakameguro Station～Roppongi Station0JPY
    Total1,720JPY

    Tour Report by Noripy

    Hello, I’m Noripy.
    I am a lively woman in my 60s who loves having fun. My charm lies in my bright and approachable personality. Drawing on over 30 years of international experience, I began working as a tour guide in 2023. I have conducted over 100 tours annually, ensuring that my clients enjoy Tokyo and its surrounding areas. I have received high praise from a wide range of customers, from teenagers to people in their 80s. I cater to solo travelers, couples, newlyweds, families, and groups of up to about 10 people. Living in the heart of the city, I actively guide tours primarily in Tokyo. In addition to being certified in English, one of my strengths is being able to communicate effectively in Spanish as well.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you all in Tokyo!

    Request Booking

    Sep 10, 2026
    Sonal_G
    Noripy is just the best
    Viator review: Tokyo Vegetarian and Halal Food Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Noripy is such a…

    Jul 3, 2026
    Jody D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from Yokohama
    Best Post cruise tour ever
    It was…

    June 19, 2026
    Alec T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo in 4 hours
    Noripy was excellent! She guided us through…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Hema_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely experience. My…
    Lovely experience. My guide was an absolutely adorable lady…

  • 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

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Hotel Okura Kyoto meeting point
    • 10:20 Togetsukyo Bridge – Tenryu-ji Temple Garden – Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 12:20 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 13:50 Disband at Kyoto Station

    What Is a 4-Hour Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today I guided guests visiting from North America. Although rain was in the forecast, it was not raining in Arashiyama, and the guests enjoyed cherry blossoms in full bloom and a bamboo grove that looked especially beautiful with the fresh green after the rain. It was relatively uncrowded today, so the guests were very pleased. They were very surprised to learn that cherry blossoms only bloom for about two weeks. Afterward we went to Kinkaku-ji, which was very crowded, and the rain suddenly grew heavier, so we walked around quickly. Even so, the guests were very happy to see the beautiful Golden Pavilion. As this was a 4-hour tour, I briefly explained about Fushimi Inari, and since time had passed, we parted at the platform for the Inari direction at Kyoto Station. I believe the guests enjoyed themselves.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto City Hall Front～Uzumasa Tenjingawa260JPY
    Section 2TrainRanden Tenjingawa～Arashiyama (Keifuku Line)250JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)～Kitano-Hakubaicho250JPY
    Section 4BusKitano-Hakubaicho / Kyoto City Bus～Kinkaku-ji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 5BusKinkaku-ji-michi / Kyoto City Bus～Kitaoji Bus Terminal (Subway Kitaoji Station) / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 6SubwayKitaoji～Kyoto260JPY
    Total1,480JPY

    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.

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    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00　Meet up @The Westin Tokyo
    • 2. 10:40　@Drugstore (near Hamamatsucho Station)
    • 3. 11:00　@Zojoji Temple
    • 4. 11:30　@Tokyo Tower
    • 5. 11:50　@Ginza (Kabukiza Theatre, 4-chome Intersection, Ginza Main Street)
    • 6. 12:30　@Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge)
    • 7.13:00　@Tokyo Station (Station Plaza, Marunouchi Side of Station Building)
    • 8. 13:10　Lunch @Kamachiku Udon (Gransta Yaesu)
    • 9. 13:50　@Chidorigafuchi
    • 10. 14:30　@Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue)
    • 11. 15:00　@Meiji Shrine
    • 12. 15:50　Dismissal @In front of JR Ebisu Station ticket gate

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Sightseeing Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Zojoji, Chidorigafuchi Cherry Blossoms, and Shibuya The guests were visitors currently living in Oceania. They appeared to be seasoned travelers, having come to Tokyo directly from their previous stop in Asia. One of the guests had visited Japan many times before, while the trip marked a first visit to Japan for another in the group. The group was joining a golf-focused tour, with a friend from North America also taking part. Following this Tokyo sightseeing day, they planned to stay in Tokyo while enjoying seven days of golf at courses in nearby Kanagawa and Ibaraki Prefectures, and afterward to spend about four days in Kyoto. Shortly after the tour began, one of the guests asked me for help purchasing some specific cosmetics. At the first destination, a large drugstore near Zojoji Temple, we found the items and purchased two. One was bought duty-free, and the other, intended for use during the stay in Japan, was purchased without the tax exemption. In any case, one of their goals was achieved right away, and they seemed very pleased. When I introduced the Himalayan cedar planted by General Grant at Zojoji Temple, it turned out that the guests had a particularly deep connection to General Grant. The group shared that, having grown up in North America, they had often visited the general's birthplace and childhood home in their youth, as well as places associated with the general when traveling to a neighboring area. They took many photographs, including the scenery combining the temple with Tokyo Tower, the Jizo statues, and the cherry blossoms in full bloom in front of them. When I guided the group to Chidorigafuchi for cherry blossom viewing, they were amazed by the fully blooming cherry trees, and even asked me to confirm the name of the spot and mark it on a map so they could recommend it to their friend arriving from North America the next day. So I marked it on a map I had on hand and gave it to them. As is typical of famous cherry blossom spots, it was quite crowded, though not as much as on weekends. We walked through the path from the Kudanshita side to the Hanzomon side, and headed to our next destination, Shibuya, boarding the Hanzomon Line at Hanzomon Station.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainEbisu～Hamamatsucho210JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Kamiyacho Station～Higashi-ginza Station700JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Yurakucho Line Ginza-itchome Station～Sakuradamon Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Tozai Line Otemachi Station～Kudanshita Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassTokyo Metro Hanzomon Line Hanzomon Station～Shibuya Station0JPY
    Section 6TrainShibuya～Harajuku160JPY
    Section 7TrainHarajuku～Ebisu160JPY
    Total1,230JPY

    Tour Report by Noripy

    Hello, I’m Noripy.
    I am a lively woman in my 60s who loves having fun. My charm lies in my bright and approachable personality. Drawing on over 30 years of international experience, I began working as a tour guide in 2023. I have conducted over 100 tours annually, ensuring that my clients enjoy Tokyo and its surrounding areas. I have received high praise from a wide range of customers, from teenagers to people in their 80s. I cater to solo travelers, couples, newlyweds, families, and groups of up to about 10 people. Living in the heart of the city, I actively guide tours primarily in Tokyo. In addition to being certified in English, one of my strengths is being able to communicate effectively in Spanish as well.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you all in Tokyo!

    Request Booking

    Sep 10, 2026
    Sonal_G
    Noripy is just the best
    Viator review: Tokyo Vegetarian and Halal Food Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Noripy is such a…

    Jul 3, 2026
    Jody D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from Yokohama
    Best Post cruise tour ever
    It was…

    June 19, 2026
    Alec T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo in 4 hours
    Noripy was excellent! She guided us through…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Hema_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely experience. My…
    Lovely experience. My guide was an absolutely adorable lady…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shibuya Crossing

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shibuya Crossing

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho　Akasaka-mitsuke ~ Asakusa
    • 10:00 Asakusa
    • 11:10 TEX Asakusa ~ Nippori
    • 11:30 Yanaka
    • 12:30 From Sendagi to Meiji Shrine
    • 13:10 Meiji Shrine
    • 　　Lunch　Visit
    • 14:30 Harajuku ~ Shibuya
    • 14:40 Shibuya Crossing
    • 15:00 Disband at Ginza Line Shibuya Station

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Harajuku and Meiji Shrine The guests were visiting from North America. They were both very intelligent and curious, showing a deep interest in culture and history. Harajuku was extremely crowded, and the restaurants we had planned to visit were all full, which made things difficult. However, we quickly changed our plan and went to a restaurant at Meiji Shrine, which offered menu options and a terrace where we could dine outside, and the guests were very satisfied and pleased. Since this place also serves Japanese cuisine, I plan to add it to my repertoire from now on. The guests were in good spirits, enjoying a full and active life through travel, music, cooking, and community activities. They thanked me warmly, saying we had a very pleasant and enjoyable time together.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAkasaka-mitsuke～Asakusa210JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa (TX)～Akihabara230JPY
    Section 3TrainAkihabara～Nippori200JPY
    Section 4SubwaySendagi～Meiji-jingumae260JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku～Shibuya160JPY
    Total1,060JPY

    Tour Report by Kris

    My name is Kris,
    Before becoming a tour guide, I worked for a major steelmaking company as an engineer for many years. During my career, I lived and worked in both Germany and the United States for a total of five years. These experiences helped me understand different cultures and ways of thinking, which now helps me connect easily with guests from around the world.

    After retirement, I chose a second career as a tour guide because I truly enjoy meeting people from different countries and sharing Japanese culture, history, and daily life. I have been working as a guide for more than nine years and continue to enjoy every tour.

    I currently live in Tokyo, but I was born and raised in Kobe, near Osaka, and my family roots are in Kyoto. As a result, I have extensive knowledge not only of Tokyo but also of Kyoto, Osaka, and many other parts of Japan. I enjoy introducing both famous landmarks and hidden local gems that many visitors might otherwise miss.

    I am energetic, friendly, and very sociable. I always try to create tours that are relaxed, flexible, and tailored to my guests’ interests.

    Travel is one of my greatest passions, especially visiting hot spring resorts. I have visited more than 80 onsen destinations throughout Japan, giving me a deep appreciation of Japanese culture and regional traditions.

    Whether you are visiting Japan for the first time or returning for another adventure, I would be delighted to help you discover the real Japan from a local perspective.

    I look forward to meeting you and helping you create wonderful memories in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and beyond.

    See you in Japan!

    Kris

    Request Booking

    May 10, 2026
    Matt_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful Introduction to Tokyo
    We were so lucky to have Kris-San…

    Apr 29, 2026
    Rebecca_M
    Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour
    We had such a wonderful…

    Apr 21, 2026
    jacquir581
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We love Kris
    Kris was awesome! He was very flexible when our…

    Apr 2, 2026
    Frank_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A great day in Tokyo
    Great tour with an excellent guide, Kris.…

  • Kawagoe Half-Day Trip from Tokyo

    Kawagoe Half-Day Trip from Tokyo

    Kawagoe Half-Day Trip from Tokyo with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • Kawagoe Station　Bus departs 10:40　Kitain 10:48　　　　Kitain, Five Hundred Rakan, Senba Toshogu Shrine
    • Kitain　Bus departs 12:13　Otemachi 12:30　　　　　Toki no Kane (Bell of Time), Kurazukuri Street, Festival Hall　
    • Lunch　( Coide )13:30　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Honmaru Goten Palace　Kawagoe Museum
    • Kawagoe Museum front　Bus departs 15:43　Ichibangai　16:00　Kurazukuri Street

    What Is a Private Kawagoe Day Tour Like from Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe on an extended independent trip, and they had researched their itinerary very thoroughly, visiting one lesser-known spot after another. Since a vegan option had been requested, I had scouted the only place offering it beforehand and shared the information, and I even made a reservation by phone in the morning. However, the restaurant was so crowded that we were never shown to a table, and the reservation was effectively meaningless. When the guests said a simple café would be fine, I cancelled it. We then looked for restaurants along the way and were able to have lunch without any trouble. One of the guests found walking a little difficult, so they seemed tired toward the end, but they very much enjoyed chatting with me. Because they had reserved train tickets back to their hotel in Tokyo, the morning timing had shifted, and since the return ticket from Omiya was for a 19:00 departure, they said they would stroll around the Kurazukuri (warehouse-style) street before heading back to the station, so we parted ways there. It was extremely crowded, and even the buses were full. I later received a message via a messaging app saying they had been able to switch to an earlier return service, so it seems they made it back safely. I did not take any photos with my own camera, so I am sorry that I cannot upload any.

    Click here for more details: Kawagoe Half-Day Trip from Tokyo with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTobu Bus One-Day Pass　Kawagoe Station～Tobu Bus One-Day Pass　Kawagoe Station500JPY
    Total500JPY

    Tour Report by Mia

    Hello! I’m Mia. I’m happy to see you enjoying yourself and looking happy during the tour. I love talking with new people to exchange different cultures. I had worked with native English speakers for a long time as a junior high school teacher. Now I retired and started two new jobs, a guide for foreigners and a bus driver in the zoo. I really enjoy working both of them. One of my hobbies is traveling. I have been to more than 20 countries including living in Myanmar for 3 years. Guidance by natives can make our knowledge deeper and then our trip becomes more interesting. I just want you to be happy during the tour and help you as much as possible. All right. See you soon!

    Request Booking

    Apr 20, 2025
    John_R
    Introduction to Tokyo through Mia’s knowledge
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mia was an excellent guide. She…

    Apr 12, 2025
    Derek_R
    Mia guided us on a…
    Viator review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mia guided us on a fabulous tour…

  • Kagawa in One Day: Benesse House Park Bus & Takamatsu Port

    Kagawa in One Day: Benesse House Park Bus & Takamatsu Port

    Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:45 Benesse House Park lobby [Meet]
    • 10:02 Benesse House Park Bus Stop
    • by Benesse House Courtesy Bus
    • 10:09 Chichu Art Museum Bus Stop
    • 10:15 ~11:15 Chichu Art Museum
    • on foot
    • 11:30~12:15 Lee Ufan Museum & Valley Gallery
    • 12:17 Lee Ufan Museum Bus Stop
    • by Benesse House Courtesy Bus
    • 12:22 Benesse House Park Bus Stop (pick up your luggage)
    • by Benesse House Courtesy Bus
    • 12:27 Naoshima Honmura Port Bus Stop
    • 12:30~13:00 Lunch at “Aisunao” in the Honmura area
    • 13:05~13:25 Art House Project (“Kadoya”)
    • 13:35 Naoshima Honmura Port Bus Stop
    • by Benesse House Courtesy Bus
    • 13:42 Miyanoura Port Bus Stop
    • 13:45~14:00 Outdoor Artworks: “Red Pumpkin”
    • 14:20 Miyanoura Port (Naoshima)
    • by ferry
    • 15:20 Takamatsu Port
    • 15:40Takamatsu Port [Say goodbye]

    What Is a Private Guided Tour of Naoshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. During their stay in Japan, they planned to travel around Tokyo, Naoshima, Takamatsu, Miyajima, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, and Okinawa. They had found Naoshima through an internet search, looking for wonderful local places in Japan. After arriving in Naoshima from Tokyo, they walked about 50 minutes from Miyanoura Port to their hotel, and I was surprised to hear there were some ups and downs along the way. They were a very considerate group, and it was heartwarming to see how close they were. Because they were able to stay at the Benesse hotel, there were many aspects that helped make the tour go smoothly, such as being able to use the shuttle bus reserved for guests (with no worry of being left behind) and being able to walk from their accommodation to the Benesse museum to leisurely explore it at their preferred time in the evening. They were pleasant guests, and I was able to guide them enjoyably throughout the day. The guests also seemed to have thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1FerryMiyanoura Port / Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture～Takamatsu Port680JPY
    Total680JPY

    Tour Report by Kaji

    Hello. My name is Hisao Kaji. I was born in 1945. I was raised in Takamatsu City from 3 years old. So, I have been living in Takamatsu for around 75 years. I believe I know Takamatsu City and the Kagawa prefecture area very well. If you come to Takamatsu, Kagawa I think you can enjoy your tour with me. I started a Government Licensed Guide in 2019. So, I have been a licensed guide for about 5 years. My favorite destinations are Naoshima, Teshima, Ritsurin Garden, the top of Mt. Yashima and so on. I always show you an itinerary about one month before your tour date, and I will accept any questions, other favorite places you want to visit. Communicating with you, I would like to accommodate your request for your tour. I always listen to NPR on the internet to know how the world is moving and improve my English. I like conversation based upon it with my life. I stayed in the USA for 8 months for a Power Systems Engineering Course conducted by General Electric in New York State when I was 28 years old. I sometimes talk about my memory of those days with the guests. I am very happy to guide tourists because I can see the guests become happy and enjoy themselves when I am guiding better. Nothing is more wonderful than that. I welcome your visit to Takamatsu City and Kagawa Prefecture. I believe you will have a pleasant time through my guide.

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    Apr 19, 2026
    2Pippin2
    Tripadvisor review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A day to remember
    Perfect day! Our tour guide, Kaji,
    added so…

    Oct 23, 2025
    C
    Calli_C
    This was a great day tour…
    Viator review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was a great day…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Vanessa_A
    Lovely day on Naoshima Island
    Viator review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    It was great to relax and leave…

    Jun 1, 2025
    Pamela_F
    Highly recommend the half…
    Viator review: Okayama Half-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Highly recommend the half day tour and our…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle Park

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle Park

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Meet at JR Osaka Station
    • 13:30~14:20 Osaka Castle Park
    • 14:35~15:30 Shitennoji Temple, Isshinji Temple
    • 15:40~16:50 Shinsekai, Kuromon Market, Dotonbori
    • 17:00 Checked the times of the special rapid trains to Kyoto at JR Osaka Station, and disbanded.

    Can You Do a Private Day Trip to Osaka from Kyoto? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests traveled from North America and met me today after taking the JR line from Kyoto to Osaka Station. We first went to Osaka Castle Park. Since they had also visited Nijo Castle in Kyoto, we talked a little about the history of the Tokugawa family along the way, and as we approached Osaka Castle, they were very impressed by the vast castle grounds and the enormous stone walls, outer moat, and inner moat. The cherry blossoms within the castle grounds were also in full bloom, and with the warm temperatures, the guests kept saying how pleasant it felt. They took many photos. At Shitennoji Temple, we discussed the history of Osaka, the introduction of Buddhism, and its relationship with Shinto. At Kuromon Market, they enjoyed eating grilled wagyu beef skewers. After that, we passed through Dotonbori and I saw them back to Osaka Station, 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 1TrainOsaka～Osakajokoen180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 3SubwayEbisucho～Nippombashi (Osaka Prefecture)190JPY
    Section 4SubwayOsaka Namba～Umeda (Subway)240JPY
    Total800JPY

    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…

  • Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour

    Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour

    Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • Port 9:00 – Miho no Matsubara ~ Shimizu Station ~ Nihondaira Ropeway ~ Toshogu Shrine ~ Yume Terrace ~ Higashi-Shizuoka Station ~ Kusanagi Station ~ Funakoshi Park 14:00 ~ Kusanagi Station ~ Shimizu Station 15:30 – Kashi no Ichi ~ Port 16:30

    Title: What's a Private Shizuoka Cruise-Port Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Miho no Matsubara, Nihondaira, and Cherry Blossoms We met successfully at the port and headed to Miho no Matsubara. After explaining the Path of the Gods, the Hagoromo (feather robe) legend, and the Elena monument, we made our way to Nihondaira. The ropeway was very crowded, but we managed to get on, and we climbed all the way up to Ieyasu's grave at the Toshogu Shrine, where the guests took many photos of the cherry blossoms, the worship hall, and more. Then we visited the Yume Terrace and the statue of Kimi-chan, and returned toward the station through a tunnel of cherry blossoms. Having heard that Funakoshi Park was a famous spot for cherry blossoms, I took the guests there. This place, too, is a hidden gem, and although it was very crowded, the guests thoroughly enjoyed the cherry blossoms in nearly full bloom. Since the guests wanted to eat delicious sushi unique to Shimizu, we went to a sushi restaurant at the Kashi no Ichi market, enjoyed a late lunch, and returned to the port.

    Click here for more details: Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHatoba Verkehr Museum / Shizutetsu Just Line～Miho Matsubara Entrance / Shizutetsu Just Line340JPY
    Section 2BusMiho Matsubara Entrance / Shizutetsu Just Line～Shimizu Station / Shizutetsu Just Line440JPY
    Section 3TrainShimizu (Shizuoka Prefecture)～Higashi-Shizuoka200JPY
    Section 4BusHigashi-Shizuoka Station South Exit / Shizutetsu Just Line～Nihondaira Ropeway / Shizutetsu Just Line570JPY
    Section 5BusNihondaira Ropeway / Shizutetsu Just Line～Higashi-Shizuoka Station South Exit / Shizutetsu Just Line570JPY
    Section 6TrainHigashi-Shizuoka～Kusanagi (Tokaido Main Line)190JPY
    Section 7OtherKusanagi Station South Exit / Shizutetsu Just Line～Funakoshi Minami380JPY
    Section 8TrainKusanagi (Shizuoka Railway Line)～Shimizu (Shizuoka Prefecture)190JPY
    Section 9BusShimizu Station / Shizutetsu Just Line～Hatoba Verkehr Museum / Shizutetsu Just Line200JPY
    Total3,080JPY

    Tour Report by Acchan

    I have been teaching high school students for 40 years as an English teacher and guiding for 10years including a volunteer guide .Now I am a national government licensed guide. I have been dreaming to introduce Japanese culture including tasty Japanese food and history , our society and also some problems in it. It is a great moment of joy and excitement to be with you from all over the world. I love traveling around Japan and abroad myself. I visited East Germany ,too that does not exist any more. I am looking forward to guiding you in and around Shizuoka!

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    Jul 26, 2026
    Edward_H
    Viator review: Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour, Licensed Guide
    The only way to tour if…
    The only way to…

    Jun 30, 2026
    Louisa_B
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    My Fuji Experience and temple visit
    Great trip out…

    Apr 14, 2026
    Bret_F
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    Great Shizuoka Area Experience
    We enjoyed a memorable day…

    Mar 27, 2026
    James_M
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    Loved are guide.
    Great tour guide. We loved her…