Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto: Nishiki Market & JR Kyoto Station

    Kyoto: Nishiki Market & JR Kyoto Station

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Hotel
    • 9:00-10:00 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Togetsukyo Bridge
    • 10:40-12:00 Nishiki Market
    • 12:30-13:20 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 13:30 Arrive at JR Kyoto Station

    Title: What's a Private Family Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They were all very friendly and asked many questions about Japanese culture. They took many photos at the bamboo grove and along the Oi River. At Fushimi Inari, an unexpected question came up that I had not anticipated, and the driver kindly helped me answer it (about what happened to horses that were once dedicated to shrines in the past). It was a warm and cheerful group, and I was able to spend a very enjoyable time with them.

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

    Tour Report by JOY

    Hello. It is very nice to meet you. My name is Etsuko Nakaba. I am based in the Kansai Area, which includes popular sightseeing spots
    such as the old capital Kyoto with many old temples, Nara, which is well known for vowing deer, and Osaka-the city of gourmet, entertainment and commerce.

    The Kansai area was the center of Japanese culture, as this is the place where the capital of Japan was located in the olden times.
    I was born and raised in a historical city Kobe, which is also in the Kansai area.　The city is famous for its port and old residences
    of merchants from Europe and Asia, as it opened its port for forreign trade about 150 years ago.
    It is also well known for the premium quality beef-Kobe Beef.
    The melting in the mouth texture is what every tourist would like to try. It is also one of the best 3 Japanese sake producing spots.
    Sake’s refined taste goes with not only Japanese traditional quisine, but also various dishes from around the worldaround.
    I am certain of its good match with Kobe beef. Some sake breweries show traditional sake making process, which are intriguing.
    It is also renowned for being home to one of the 3 oldest hot springs in Japan, Arima.The color of the water is gold,
    as it contains a lot of iron. It was frequented by a famous warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi 500 years ago.

    I love my hometown Kobe; however, I also lived in Tokyo for 20 years. So, l know the allure
    of the representative two cities o feastern and western Japan, Tokyo and Osaka.
    As a matter of course, there are many hidden gems in each area, in the northern, middle, or southern Japan.
    For example, Himeji City, which is to the west of Kobe city is renowned for its 400 year old castle. which is a world cultural heritage site.
    It was built by a shogun, the leader of samaurai- feudal warriors and the de facto leader of the nation.
    The original structure of the castle transfers us back to the olden times governed by samurai.
    Though some people believe that they still exist, the class was abolished aobut 150 years ago due to the drastic political reform called “Meiji Restoration”.
    If you would like to, I could take you to the fascilities where you can see authentic samurai’s armor and swords.
    Ninja or secret agents, who served feudal lords, do not exist any more either. A ninja museum in Shiga prefecture was a residence of ninja before.
    It is not rennovated for the service, so you can enjoy the complicated interior with some contraptions to defeat the intruders.

    Japan has distinct four seasons, which makes this country more attractive. Each season has its own attractions.
    Spring and autumn are ideal for sightseeing, as the climate is mild and you can enjoy beautiful scenery such as cherry blossoms or autumn foliage.
    Between summer and autumn, there is the rainy season which lasts for about a month. This season feartures hydrangeas.
    A historical city Kamakura, where the first samurai government started, is embraced by a serene atomosphere in June, as the combination of the
    old temples and the delicate beauty of hydrangeas in the overcast or rainy weather is the essence of Japanese beauty.

    The southern island Kyushu was also a gate for overseas trade. Okinawa also has its own unique and rich culture, as it was not a part of Japan in the past.
    It was an independent country called ” Ryukyu Kingdom.”in the past.
    The beauty of the ocean and the unique culture and food have been captivating the hearts of the people all over the world.

    Like these, Japan is filled with historical and natural beauty.Furthermore, traditional Japanese quisene is an intangible world cultural heritage.
    It would be an honor if I could introduce you even one of them.
    I am thrilled to meet you and iintroduce the beauty of Japan to you.

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    Jun 17, 2026
    Jason_W
    Viator review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely amazing tour and guide
    This was the perfect Kyoto tour for…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Malcolm_S
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Custom Private Tour of Kyoto
    Our tour guide,…

    May 29, 2026
    Andrew_B
    Viator review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Etsuko was an exceptional…
    Etsuko was an exceptional tour guide. She catered…

    May 21, 2026
    Claire_G
    Viator review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Day Trip to Kyoto
    We could not have got around Kyoto in…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①　08:00　Meet at Hotel Kyoto Sanjo
    • ②　08:05　Explanation of the itinerary and the history of Kyoto
    • ③　08:45　Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • ④　10:00　Early lunch at a street stall near Fushimi Inari Station
    • ⑤　11:30　Gion (Shirakawa ~ Gion Corner ~ Yasui Konpiragu Shrine)
    • ⑥　12:30　Yasaka Pagoda
    • ⑦　13:30　Sanjusangendo
    • ⑧　14:15　Disband at Sanjusangendo

    # What Is a Private Kyoto Tour Like During the New Year Holidays? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan and Kyoto for the first time from North America. Their plan was to stay in Kyoto for a while after Tokyo, then travel around Hiroshima, Nara, and Osaka before returning to Tokyo and heading home. They were a lively and delightful pair. They were fluent in English, but were constantly chatting and laughing between themselves in Spanish about all sorts of amusing things. Since I couldn't understand what they were saying, when I would somewhat forcefully begin explaining at a spot, they would quiet down and look into my eyes, listening intently just like elementary school students. That extreme contrast was truly wonderful and entertaining. They loved the word "ookini," and when I mentioned that if I kept saying "ookini" a shop might give me something extra, they found it so amusing that at the stalls of Fushimi Inari they bought all kinds of food and drinks, repeatedly exclaiming "ookini," and burst into laughter with delight whenever the vendors laughed back. With such cheerful company, today was a great deal of fun in a different sense. They were deeply moved by Sanjusangendo. As you may know, North America has a culture, much like Japan's Obon, of welcoming the souls of the dead once a year, so with guests from that region we always get excited talking about this topic. While Japan's Obon feels like quietly remembering the departed, today they told me about a film called "Un Poco Loco," which depicts the local celebration of the dead (Dia de Muertos), a cheerful festival where the skeletons of the dead sing songs with guitars and the audience are skeletons too. You can watch it on YouTube. Since today was still within the first three days of the New Year, wherever we went there were overwhelmingly more Japanese people than usual, and it was a day of eating our way through the stalls and seeing how much we could make the vendors laugh.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSanjo (Kyoto Prefecture)～Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari～Gion-Shijo240JPY
    Total480JPY

    Tour Report by Kazu

    Hello, this is Kazu Akiyama, your tour guide. Nice to meet you and welcome to Japan. Thank you for joining me on the tour. Now I am a retired salaried worker, living in Osaka. I have been very much interested in not only learning Japanese history, culture, religion myself, but also talking about them (sometimes going off topics) in English with tourists from all over the world as well. I am so excited being with you as your guide on coming day! I am very much looking forward to you enjoying with me visiting the must-see places and some of the hidden gems. See you soon. Thank you – Kazu Akiyama

    Request Booking

    Jul 29, 2026
    James_G
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great guide and very…
    Great guide and very knowledgeable.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    peterhR6472GA
    Kyoto highlights with Kazu.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with Kazu…

    Jul 12, 2026
    cgalvez73
    Fantastic tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our guide in Kyoto was Kazu.…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Winni_H
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Highly recommended when in Kyoto
    Our tour guide…

  • Osaka: Wargo Kimono rental & Wrago Kimono rental

    Osaka: Wargo Kimono rental & Wrago Kimono rental

    Osaka Customized Tour & Kimono Experience, Licensed Guide

    January, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ Holiday Inn & Suites Shin Osaka By IHG
    • 11:00-11:40@ Wargo Kimono rental
    • 11:45-12:20 @ Dotonbori, Hozenji Temple
    • 12:55-14:20 @ Osaka Castle, Hokoku Shrine
    • 14:50-15:10 @ Wrago Kimono rental
    • 15:15 Disband @ Dotonbori

    Title: What Is a Private Kimono-Wearing Day Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Asia. They used a New Year holiday for their annual family trip, coming to Japan for the first time in three years, and it was their first visit to Osaka. At first, some of the guests seemed anxious, wondering whether it might look strange for visitors from abroad to walk around wearing kimono, but with some encouragement they decided to give it a try. They explored Dotonbori, Hozenji, and Osaka Castle, and enjoyed taking photos in brave, samurai-like poses. Due to the cold weather, they gave up on the planned visit to Sumiyoshi Taisha, and after changing out of the kimono earlier than scheduled, we parted ways at Dotonbori.

    Click here for more details: Osaka Customized Tour & Kimono Experience, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShin Osaka～Shinsaibashi240JPY
    Section 2SubwayNamba (Subway)～Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 3SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Namba (Subway)240JPY
    Total720JPY

    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!

    Request Booking

    Jul 30, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We spent half…

    Jul 12, 2026
    angiegI1120DY
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great tour! Great guide!
    Sachi was a great guide. She customized…

    Jul 8, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    We Miss Osaka Already
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sachiko O. was our guide…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Relax64382499520
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A memorable experience!
    Wonderful experience with an amazing guide! Ms. Sachiko Ogura,…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa via the subway Ginza Line

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa via the subway Ginza Line

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    January, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:45 Arrive at Hotel guide (Kogure)
    • 9:20 Meet the guests in the hotel lobby (conduct briefing)
    • 9:25 Depart the hotel
    • 9:30 Head to Asakusa via the subway Ginza Line
    • 9:48 Arrive at Asakusa Station
    • 9:50〜10:20 Guide through the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center 8F observation deck, Sensoji Temple Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise Shopping Street, Hozomon Gate, the giant straw sandals, five-story pagoda, main hall, and Asakusa Shrine
    • 10:23 Depart Asakusa Station, transfer at Shibuya Station and head to Harajuku Station via the JR Yamanote Line
    • 11:05 Arrive at Harajuku Station, walk to Meiji Shrine
    • 11:10 〜11:50 Guide through Meiji Shrine
    • 11:50 Depart Meiji Shrine, show the entrance to Takeshita Street on foot, and head to Harajuku Station
    • 12:03 Depart Harajuku Station, head to Shibuya Station via the JR Yamanote Line
    • 12:05 Arrive at Shibuya Station, guide through Hachiko and the scramble crossing on foot
    • 12:20〜13:20 Lunch at Sushisei Shibuya branch
    • 13:25 Guide to the subway Ginza Line Shibuya Station ticket gate entrance (for the guests' return trip)
    • 13:30 After guiding around the Shibuya Station area, part with the guests at Shibuya Station. (End of work)

    What Can You See on a One-Day Private Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, and Hachiko The guests were visiting Japan for the first time, and it was also their first trip to Asia. They had arrived the previous night and planned to stay in Tokyo before continuing their travels to another destination in Asia. Although Tokyo had its first snowfall of the year the previous night, today was clear and sunny, and the guests seemed to greatly enjoy the tour. As it was during the first three days of the New Year, both Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa and Meiji Shrine in Harajuku were extremely crowded. In particular, entry to Meiji Shrine was being restricted, but at both Senso-ji Temple and Meiji Shrine we were able to complete our visit without much waiting. I explained the differences between temples and shrines and the proper way to worship at each, which the guests seemed to learn well. They also enjoyed the sushi at lunch, which they savored with great delight. At Senso-ji Temple, Meiji Shrine, and the Hachiko statue, they took many photographs. They enjoyed getting around using public transportation such as the subway and JR, which is rarely experienced where they come from. They were very comfortable with walking and did not mind it at all, and they thoroughly enjoyed today's tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGinza～Asakusa210JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Shibuya260JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya～Harajuku150JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku～Shibuya150JPY
    Total770JPY

    Tour Report by Nobby

    Hello and how do you do?
    My name is Nobuo Kokure, and please call me Nobby for short, if you want.
    Let me introduce myself. I was born in Hayama, a beach resort area, Kanagawa prefecture, south of Tokyo. And I’m now living in Saginuma, Kawasaki city.
    When I was a university student, I had the opportunities of doing a home stay with a family In U.S.A., Australia, and England, as a youth exchange student.
    After graduation from the university, I started working at American Life Insurance Company, Japan (Alico, Japan), which is a group member company of AIG, now MetLife Insurance Company. I could have a chance to visit the head office and the field offices of U.S.A., Wilmington in Delaware, New York, Boston, Chicago, Fort Lauderdale in Florida, Los Angeles, while I was working for Alico, Japan (Now, MetLife Insurance company).
    I had been working for MetLife Insurance Company for about 38 years, in total.
    After retiring from the life insurance company, I started working as a tour guide, because I wanted to become a tour guide to introduce culture, history, and manners and customs of Japan in English. It’s so different between my previous job and the guide business, but I like guide business a lot.
    I can meet so many people from all over the world and the guide business has been thriving after the pandemic.
    I have implemented the tour over 240 times, introduced Japan to more than 4300 tourists from 53 countries.

    Not only Tokyo, but I have experienced touring around Nikko, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji & Hakone area, Takayama, Kanazawa, Nagoya, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, and Hiroshima, etc. which are all very famous as a tourist spot in Japan.
    If you go on a tour in Tokyo, you must see and visit Asakusa Sensoji Temple which is the oldest Buddhist Temple in Tokyo with histories and Nakamise Shopping Street where you can buy the souvenirs and try to taste Japanese sweets, such as doll cake which is the sponge cake in various shapes filled with red bean paste and Japanese powdered tea ice cream. Another my recommendation in Tokyo to visit is Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, and Shibuya. Meiji Shrine is one of the biggest shrines in Japan with quiet and peaceful atmosphere and magnificent site.
    Harajuku and Shibuya are both fun to visit for shopping and experience the Shibuya Crossing.
    I usually propose my tentative itinerary and ask if my plan is all right with the customer or not. My hobby is traveling around Japan and foreign countries and going to the gym for exercise.
    I would like to work as a guide as long as possible if I’m in good health and my legs are strong, because I love this job.
    I put my importance on the mind of OMOTENASHI which means sincere hospitality, though safety during the tour takes precedence, number one priority, before anything else.

    I’m very looking forward to seeing you and touring with you in Japan soon.
    Thank you!

    Best regards,

    Nobuo Kokure (Nobby)

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    Jul 20, 2026
    JEFF_D
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo In A Day Tour with Nobuo
    The excursion…

    Apr 18, 2026
    Traveler10250323486
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great day with a Japanese guide who seemed like…

    Sep 23, 2025
    johnsL7185LE
    Brilliant family day trip with Nobuo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nobuo Kokure is a wonderful guide.…

    Aug 4, 2025
    leslie_w
    Nobby was an awesome tour…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nobby was an awesome tour guide. Very…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:10 Meet at the hotel (delayed due to the guest's eldest daughter's breakfast)　10:35 Nanzen-ji Temple　12:15 Yasaka Pagoda (Higashiyama area)　12:40 Lunch (near Sannenzaka)　
    • 13:30 Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka, Ishibei-koji, Yasaka Shrine　　14:45 Gion　　15:40 Pontocho　　16:00 Return to the hotel and end the tour

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. The tour was influenced by the mood of one of the guests throughout the day. As it was colder than they were used to, the mood was not great in the latter half. After some discussion, we decided not to visit Sanjusangendo as originally planned and instead returned to the Hotel. At each destination, the guests took many photographs. One of the guests seemed to want to touch and have everything. At the first stop, Nanzenji, everyone was in good spirits, but after lunch a combination of drowsiness and the cold made things restless. After Gion, we scouted out the restaurant in Pontocho where they had reserved dinner, and then returned to the Hotel. The photos were taken at the lunch restaurant and near the Yasaka Pagoda.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherKyoto City Hall～Keage220JPY
    Section 2OtherKeage～Higashiyama220JPY
    Section 3BusHigashiyama-sanjo (Subway Higashiyama Station)／Kyoto City Bus～Kiyomizu-michi／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total670JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

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    Jul 24, 2026
    Trail65429092687
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Tour
    Kazua Sumi is a very accomplished guide.He has deep…

    Jul 23, 2026
    489caelinp
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Guided Tour
    My friend and I had a great experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    margaretsM7923ON
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Great way to see Kyoto
    Wonderful tour and exceptional guide.

    Jul 9, 2026
    Sandra_B
    Kazuo was great and…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazuo was great and provided…

  • Kyoto: Hilton Kyoto & Kyoto City Bus 207

    Kyoto: Hilton Kyoto & Kyoto City Bus 207

    Kyoto Instagram Spots Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    January, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hilton Kyoto
    • 10:14 Keihan Sanjo Station
    • 10:24 Fushimi Inari Station → About 1 hour at Fushimi Inari
    • 11:23 JR Inari Station
    • 11:28 JR Kyoto Station
    • 11:59 JR Saga-Arashiyama Station → About 1 hour at Arashiyama
    • 13:14 Hankyu Arashiyama Station
    • 13:26 Hankyu Katsura Station
    • 13:37 Hankyu Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station
    • 　　　Lunch
    • 14:30 Kyoto City Bus 207 → Kiyomizu-michi
    • 15:00 Yasaka Pagoda, Yasaka Koshindo
    • 16:00 Hotel

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like Around Shijo Kawaramachi and Gion? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather turned much warmer than the forecast had predicted, with sunshine making it a very pleasant day for this time of year. However, everywhere we went was extremely crowded. Shijo Kawaramachi in particular was so packed with people that it was difficult even to cross at the traffic lights. We had planned to have lunch in the Shijo Kawaramachi area, but every place was fully booked, and all the restaurants we had originally shortlisted were full, which took quite a lot of time. In the end, we went into a café-style restaurant, but the guests kindly said it was a nice place, which put me at ease. Afterward, we did not go to Gion as originally planned, both because the guests had already visited there the previous day and because lunch had put us behind schedule. Even so, the guests were very warm, and I even received a thank-you email after the tour. Thank you for your support. I look forward to working with you again.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Instagram Spots Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSanjo (Kyoto)～Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Section 2TrainInari～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama (Hankyu Line)～Kyoto-Kawaramachi240JPY
    Section 4BusShijo-Kawaramachi／Kyoto City Bus～Kiyomizu-michi／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total950JPY

    Tour Report by Yoko

    Hello. Thank you for your interest in Japan. I am a guide in Kansai area, the west part of Japan. There are many World Heritage sites in the west area. If you are interested in Japanese history and traditional culture, Kyoto and Nara are the two best places to visit. There are many temples. Osaka has many recreational places. Hyogo prefecture has one of the greatest castles in Japan called Himeji Castle and sake breweries. Hiroshima is famous for the Peace Memorial Park and a beautiful shrine. Also, you can taste different Japanese cuisines in each place. l will be very happy to guide families, couples, and solo travelers. I love children. I’ll do my best to make your time here unforgettable.

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  • Kyoto: Kofukuji Temple & back at Shijo station

    Kyoto: Kofukuji Temple & back at Shijo station

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    January, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:40　Start at MIMARUSUITES Kyoto Shijo→17:40 end of tour
    • 09:54 Train departs Shijo
    • 10:48 Train arrives at Kintetsu-Nara station
    • walk 5 minutes via Nakatanidou
    • 11:10-20 Kofukuji Temple
    • walk 20 minutes mochi pounding experience at Aoba Chaya
    • 12:00-20 Kasuga-taisha Shrine gave up entering due to too many people
    • walk 10 min.
    • 12:30-40 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate)
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 12:50-13:20 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall
    • 　 walk 5 minutes
    • 13:30 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 13:40-14:40 Nigatsudo Hall
    • Lunch or snack at Emado Chaya
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 14:50 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill
    • former katana sword manufacturer's, craft shop etc.
    • walk 10 minutes
    • 15:00 Kasugataisha again did not enter
    • walk through the park
    • 16:00 back at Kintetsu-Nara Station
    • 17:00 back at Shijo station

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour from Kyoto to Nara Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from South America. The high-speed mochi pounding at Nakatanidou was not happening at the right time, so we skipped it, but the guests enjoyed a free mochi-pounding experience at Aoba Chaya inside the park, just like last year. They were delighted, calling it a "once in a lifetime experience!" One of the guests wished to learn about Shinto in detail. During the train ride from Kyoto to Nara, there were plenty of questions and plenty of explanations. This was one of the few tours where I was able to explain so much, covering not only Shinto but also Buddhism. Compared to guests from Western countries, guests from this region seem to have a deeper interest in diverse cultures. The oyakodon at Emado Chaya received the highest praise, with the comment, "This is the best food I had in Japan." The guests said they will surely revisit Nara. A tour like this was guided by [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides serving all 47 prefectures.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShijo (Kyoto Municipal)～Kintetsu-Nara980JPY
    Section 2TrainKintetsu-Nara～Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)980JPY
    Total1,960JPY

    Tour Report by Junichi

    Hello! Thank you for choosing Nara! I bet you’ll love Nara. I specialize in Nara because Nara is the unique place where in one day you can cover the history and religions of Japan from the ancient times to the post war era while enjoying rambling in the UNESCO World Heritage park, having communication with lovely deer, surrounded with the beautiful nature.
    I grew up in Nara, went university in Kyoto, enjoyed teaching at high schools and a university in Osaka. The three former capitals of Japan are home to me.
    After retiring from teaching I began guiding so that I can meet various people from various corners of the world with a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Each time I guide, I find it hugely rewarding because I learn a lot from my guests sharing the history, culture and all that I know about Nara, Kyoto and Osaka.
    I used to be a marathon runner, mountain climber and skier though I am not much of them anymore.
    What I especially recommend is to stay in Nara a couple of days and enjoy communicating with friendly deer while visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nara in early morning, temples and shrines at night are well worth experiencing.

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    May 16, 2026
    I3520JTcristinat
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nara with family
    Excellent tour with Junichi!!! Perfect English speaking guide and…

    May 3, 2026
    Maria_J
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyable day in Nara
    We spent 6 hours in Nara with Junichi…

    Apr 11, 2026
    64sandig
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Osaka DEP. with Licensed Guide
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    Mar 30, 2026
    dpadillachavez
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
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  • Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

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

    January, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:53 Arriving at West Hiroshima Station
    • 2. 10:38 Taking a delayed train and arriving at Miyajima-guchi
    • 3. 12:10 Finishing a visit to the Shrine
    • 4. 12:30 Having lunch at Toriiya Restaurant
    • 5. 13:30 walking along a shopping street
    • 6. 15:15 arriving at the A-bomb dome and visiting monuments
    • 7. 16:40 Arriving at the Museum
    • 8. 17:30 Saying goodbye after showing the restaurant for their dinner

    Title: What Is a Private Snowy Day Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests had a deep interest in the atomic bombing and its aftermath, and from the moment we met I was met with many questions. Some of the guests were also interested in Miyajima and were delighted to see the island covered in snow. The train was delayed by 14 minutes due to an accident involving a car, and the approach to Itsukushima Shrine was very slippery with melting snow and ice, so I linked arms with one of the guests to avoid slipping. It was my first time walking such slippery paths in Miyajima. They were deeply impressed by the shrine built in the 12th century, now covered in snow, and by the ninth-generation torii gate built in 1875. At the Dome, they were astonished to learn that children had played there after the bombing. When I explained the reasons for the bombing of Hiroshima together with the context of Japan's expansion into Asia, they said, "It's amazing that Japanese people don't hate Americans! Mr. Trump should come here." They also seemed struck by the fact that the people of Hiroshima did not move away to safer places after the bombing.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherWest Hiroshima Station～Miyajima-guchi Station330JPY
    Section 2OtherMiyajima-guchi～In front of the A-bomb Dome240JPY
    Total570JPY

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    Request Booking

    Apr 13, 2026
    Mariana_M
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima Tour with Yoshi
    Yoshi was truly one of the…

    Apr 11, 2026
    Liesbet N
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Boeiende reis door geschiedenis
    Een boeiende rondleiding van Yoshiko…

    Oct 26, 2025
    COYS100
    Great Hiroshima experience
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    A great tour with a very informed…

    Jun 25, 2025
    O1135UVraymondp
    Highly recommended to everyone to this tour
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Joshi is…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Ginkaku-ji & Sanjusangen-do

    Kyoto in One Day: Ginkaku-ji & Sanjusangen-do

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Meet at Hotel Kuu Kyoto
    • 09:15 to 10:00 Ginkaku-ji
    • 10:40 to 11:30 Kodai-ji
    • 11:30 to 11:45 Yasaka Pagoda
    • 12:00 to 12:30 Lunch at Kiyomizu-zaka
    • 12:30 to 13:00 Kiyomizu-dera (Not entering the paid area.)
    • 13:40 to 14:20 Sanjusangen-do
    • 14:30 Disband at Keihan Railway Shichijo Station

    # What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were friends visiting from Oceania. They seemed to be close friends and planned to spend about two weeks in Japan over the New Year period. They intended to enjoy skiing in areas such as Hokkaido and Nagano. Stories about bears are quite well known among travelers coming to Japan, and the guests were rather concerned that bears have recently not been hibernating and have been appearing even in snowy regions. After this tour, they were heading to Fushimi Inari Taisha, so we parted ways at the Keihan Railway station.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKarasuma Rokujo／Kyoto City Bus～Ginkaku-ji-michi／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2BusGinkaku-ji-michi／Kyoto City Bus～Higashiyama Sanjo (Subway Higashiyama Station)／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3BusHigashiyama Sanjo (Subway Higashiyama Station)／Kyoto City Bus～Higashiyama Yasui／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4BusGojo-zaka／Kyoto City Bus～Museum Sanjusangen-do-mae／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total920JPY

    Tour Report by Haru

    Personal data
    Born in : May 1st, 1957
    Hobby : Visiting scenic places,
    historic spots, Japanese
    gardens and old townscape
    Former career : Worked for electric
    company and engaged in
    international sales for
    about 40 years.
    Travel history in the former career :
    Visited about 20 countries about 200 times

    Career as guide interpreter
    Acquisition of guide license : 2016
    Career of guide : 8 years
    Genre of my specialty :
    Japanese historic structures such as
    temple, shrine, castle and garden.
    Area of guide : Kyoto, Nara, Osaka &
    Himeji

    Let’s enjoy Japan with me !!

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    Dec 30, 2024
    shannono1010
    Haru is a Rock Star
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a fantastic guide. He explained…

    Dec 29, 2024
    Ali O
    Amazing!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was amazing on our tour of Nara. He was…

    Dec 4, 2024
    D5658ZEjohnr
    Trip to some of the Kyoto sites on our visit to Japan.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with…

    Dec 3, 2024
    Charlie_Jane00
    Kyoto Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a well organised and very informative guide. He…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Egret Himeji Rooftop & Kokoen Garden

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Egret Himeji Rooftop & Kokoen Garden

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    January, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet up @ JR Himeji Station
    • 09:45 @ Egret Himeji Rooftop
    • 10:00 @ Himeji Castle
    • 12:45 @ Kokoen Garden
    • 13:30 Disband @ Kokoen Garden

    Title: What Is a Private Himeji Castle and Koko-en Garden Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. Some of the guests seemed to enjoy photography and were eagerly taking pictures not only at each spot but also of the townscape while moving between locations. One of the guests appeared a little tired and frequently sat down to rest, so some of the group tended to fall slightly behind. That said, they showed great interest in each spot and listened attentively to the guide's explanations. They seemed to be a very close-knit group, and it was heartwarming to see how well they looked after one another. The guests were very fond of plants, and they explored Koko-en Garden with great interest. I presented one of the guests with a handmade drawstring pouch made by my sister, which was very well received. After visiting the spots, they wished to stroll around on their own, so we parted ways at Koko-en Garden.

    Click here for more details: Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
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    A wonderful time!
    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…