Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①　08:30　Meet at Hotel MOGANA
    • ②　08:35　Itinerary explanation and about the history of Kyoto
    • ③　09:30　Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • ④　10:45　Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • ⑤　11:30　Tenryu-ji Temple and Garden
    • ⑥　12:30　Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • ⑦　13:30　Disband at JR Nijo Station

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America, and this was their first time in both Japan and Kyoto. They traveled from Tokyo to Hida-Takayama, stopped at a small island in the Seto Inland Sea, and then came to Kyoto. They planned to spend a night in my home city of Osaka before returning to Tokyo and heading home to North America. Having attended school where all lessons were taught in English from an early age, they spoke very clear English. Since they had apparently explored Tokyo and Hida-Takayama on their own, they still knew relatively little about Japanese history, culture, and customs, and everything I explained seemed to be new to them, so I ended up talking quite a lot. At Kinkaku-ji, I explained the Gozan no Okuribi bonfire and the Obon tradition, and since there is a very similar custom of welcoming ancestors once a year in their home region, the conversation became lively as we agreed how alike they were. Talks about how living habits, dialects, and even temperaments differ from region to region always spark good conversation, and today too we enjoyed discovering that the same is true in their home region. The guests had a refined and easygoing manner, listened attentively, and asked questions at just the right moments, and I too spent a truly enjoyable time. The other day I had the pleasure of attending the Japan Guide Awards. I was able to greet President Fujiwara and the staff of [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), and although it was only a short time, I was able to deepen my connections with guides from my own region as well as from the Kanto area, making it a very meaningful day. Thank you very much. Perhaps in part because assignments have become fewer since December, no matter how hard I try, I have been completely unable to secure any assignments from December through February other than those over the year-end and New Year period. The moment an assignment email arrives at 7:00 or 15:00, no matter how quickly I open it, it already shows as "being assigned." Has the number of guides during these time slots increased sharply? I wonder whether everyone else is receiving assignments fairly evenly and I alone am unable to, as it feels a little unusual compared to previous years. I am doing what I can within my means, including paying attention to my internet environment, but as things stand I am effectively at a loss.

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

    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

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    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…

  • Toyama in One Day: Glass Museum & Toyama Castle Park

    Toyama in One Day: Glass Museum & Toyama Castle Park

    Toyama Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 AM: Meeting
    • o Meet at Hotel Toyama Ekimae.
    • o Walk to the "Toyama Ekimae" tram stop.
    • 09:15 AM – 10:30 AM: Glass Museum (KIRARI)
    • o Take the Tram (Loop Line) to the "Nishicho" stop.
    • o Explore the Toyama Glass Art Museum. The morning light in the atrium is beautiful for photos.
    • 10:30 AM – 11:15 AM: Ikedaya Yasubei Shoten
    • o Walk about 5–8 minutes from the museum to this historic medicine shop.
    • o Watch the traditional pill-making demonstration.
    • 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Toyama Castle Park
    • o Walk about 10 minutes toward the station to reach Toyama Castle Park.
    • o Walk through the grounds and see the castle keep and the moat.
    • Afternoon Segment
    • • 12:00 PM – 12:45 PM: Lunch at Marutakaya Ramen
    • o Walk or take a short tram ride back to Toyama Station.
    • o Lunch: Go to Marutakaya for Toyama Black Ramen.
    • • 1:15 PM – 2:45 PM: Iwase Historic District
    • o Catch the Portram (Light Rail) from the North side of Toyama Station.
    • o Explore: Walk the old merchant streets of Iwase.
    • o Note: Keep an eye on the clock; you will need to board the return tram by approximately 2:30 PM to be safe.
    • • 3:00 PM: Back at Toyama Station
    • o The Portram arrives directly back at the station.

    What's a Private Day Tour of Toyama City Like? A Licensed Guide's Report This was my final guiding assignment of the year, and I showed the guests around Toyama City. As a guide with [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), I found this to be a fitting and enjoyable way to close out the year. The guests were a group visiting from Oceania, and meeting up at the hotel went very smoothly. First, I helped them purchase a digital one-day tram pass, and then we headed to the Toyama Glass Art Museum. On the tram, we had a lively conversation about my past experiences in Oceania and our shared hobby of fishing. Morning: City Sightseeing Toyama Glass Art Museum: We viewed the permanent exhibition by Dale Chihuly as well as a special exhibition of Gallé works. One of the guests was especially interested in glass and looked at the works very intently, purchasing a piece by a Toyama artist as a souvenir. Ikeda Yasubei Shoten: The guests received an explanation of traditional medicine and enjoyed a hands-on experience making Hangontan pills. Toyama Castle Park: I explained the history of the Warring States period and the former Chitose Palace. Although the cloudy sky meant we could not see the distant scenery, the guests were delighted by the silver-white castle still dusted with the previous night's snow, describing it as having a wonderful atmosphere. Lunch: Local Cuisine On the way to the station, we had lunch at a local restaurant. Most of the guests enjoyed the requested "Toyama Black Ramen," praising it as delicious. Afternoon: Iwase Area In the afternoon, we took the Portram to Iwase. The Baba Family Residence (a former shipping agent for the Kitamaebune trade): I explained that the Lafcadio Hearn (Koizumi Yakumo) collection donated to the University of Toyama was made possible through the support of the Baba family. The guests showed a strong interest in the architectural style, which made explaining it very rewarding as a guide. The Streetscape of Iwase and Local Sake: At another sake brewery, the guests chose the now-popular collaboration sake "Link 8888" (Masuizumi x Chivas Regal) as a souvenir. We boarded the 14:45 Portram and safely concluded the tour at Toyama Station around 15:05. The guests and I had a great deal in common, making it a fun day and a fitting way to end the year.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassToyama Station～Toyama Station – Nishicho – Higashi-Iwase – Toyama Station650JPY
    Total650JPY

    Tour Report by Naoto

    With a unique professional background encompassing both academia and international affairs, I offer a distinctive and enriching guiding experience for visitors to the Hokuriku region, specializing in Toyama and Kanazawa. My approach goes beyond standard sightseeing; I focus on providing a deep, comparative cultural understanding of Japan and its traditions.
    For many years, I served as an English Language Instructor at various junior colleges and universities. This extensive experience has honed my ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and to engage with people from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. Furthermore, I have had valuable exposure to high-level international communication through my work accompanying delegations for international conferences and official inspection tours. This has equipped me with a strong foundation in professional protocol and a refined sense of hospitality essential for serving international guests.
    My professional strengths are notably multifaceted. Having worked in art galleries, I possess a detailed knowledge of art and aesthetics, allowing me to offer nuanced explanations of local crafts, museum exhibits, and artistic traditions. Complementing this, my knowledge of real estate provides a solid understanding of architecture, enabling me to discuss the historical context and structural significance of both traditional Japanese buildings—such as those found in Gokayama—and modern regional developments. By weaving together art, history, and architecture, I can present a holistic narrative of the region’s development.
    I am proud to be a certified Regional Licensed Tour Guide, having obtained my qualification in January 2025. Since then, I have successfully guided tours through key areas of Toyama Prefecture, including the UNESCO World Heritage site of Gokayama, the historical castle town of Takaoka, the stunning natural beauty of Kurobe, and the modern vibrancy of Toyama City. Given the deep historical connections between the prefectures, my guiding extends to the famous cultural capital of Kanazawa City in Ishikawa Prefecture. Moving forward, my goal is to cover the entire Hokuriku region (Toyama, Ishikawa, and Fukui), providing comprehensive itineraries that connect these culturally rich areas.
    What truly sets my tours apart is my passion for the natural environment. I am an enthusiast of outdoor activities and deeply familiar with Toyama’s spectacular landscapes. For travelers who wish to connect with nature, I can seamlessly integrate activities such as hiking in the mountains or fishing excursions into a custom itinerary. This allows my guests to not only witness the region’s natural beauty but to actively experience it.
    My commitment is to utilize my overseas guiding experience to introduce the unique charm of Toyama and the Hokuriku region from a comparative cultural perspective, ensuring every international visitor gains an appreciation that resonates personally. Book a tour with me to unlock a deeper, more personalized, and adventurous journey through the heart of Japan.

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  • Ishikawa in One Day: Kenrokuen Garden and begin

    Ishikawa in One Day: Kenrokuen Garden and begin

    Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet in the lobby of Hotel Nikko Kanazawa
    • Purchase 6 one-day free bus passes at the Hokuriku Railway ticket counter in front of Kanazawa Station and board the bus.
    • 9:20 Arrive at Kenrokuen Garden and begin strolling.
    • 10:00 Visit the Kaga Honda Museum near Kenrokuen Garden.
    • 10:30 Visit the Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Traditional Arts and Crafts next to Kenrokuen Garden, and do some shopping.
    • 11:00 Return to Kenrokuen Garden and continue strolling, then visit Ishikawa Gate.
    • 11:30 Head from the Kenrokuen bus stop to Korinbo.
    • 11:45 From Korinbo, walk into the Nagamachi Samurai District, stroll along the canal, and visit the Takada Family Residence Ruins and the Ashigaru Museum.
    • 12:30 Take the Kanazawa Flat Bus that runs along the canal toward Omicho Market.
    • 12:45 Have Kanazawa curry for lunch at a restaurant in the basement of Meitetsu M'za across from Omicho Market.
    • 13:25 Stroll through Omicho Market, buy grilled eel skewers and wagyu beef skewers, and eat them at the market's eat-in spot.
    • 13:50 Take the bus from the Musashigatsuji bus stop toward the Higashi Chaya District.
    • 14:00 Stroll through the Higashi Chaya District and have gold leaf soft serve at Hakuichi. Visit Shima and learn about Kanazawa's geisha culture.
    • 15:00 After the tour, explain to the 5 people who have reservations how to get to the Ninja Temple, then conclude the tour.

    Title: Can You Do a Private Winter Day Tour of Kanazawa in the Snow? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Asia. One of them had previously come to Japan for a short period to teach English at an elementary school in Tachikawa City, so they spoke a little Japanese. The others were visiting Japan for the first time, but they were very knowledgeable about Japanese history, culture, and food. At first they were surprised by the cold and snow in Kanazawa and worried whether the tour would really be possible, but they gradually got used to it and walked a great deal. They were deeply impressed by the snow-covered yukitsuri ropes in Kenrokuen Garden and took many photos, and they showed keen interest in the exhibits at the Kaga Honda Museum and the crafts at the Ishikawa Museum of Traditional Arts and Crafts. For lunch they requested Kanazawa curry, as well as eel skewers and wagyu skewers at Omicho Market, and they also asked to try gold leaf soft serve ice cream in the Higashi Chaya District. Since all of these wishes were fulfilled, they seemed very satisfied. They were interested not only in the food but also in the samurai of Kanazawa, so I made a 4:00 reservation at the Ninja Temple, and the group planned to visit it together after the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherKanazawa Station／Hokuriku Railway Bus～Kenrokuen-shita・Kanazawa Castle／Hokuriku Railway Bus800JPY
    Total800JPY

    Tour Report by Masayo

    Hello.
    My name is Masayo Shirai.
    I have been a national licensed tour guide of English since April in 2014.
    I was born. raised, and still living near the Higashi Chaya District in Kanazawa.
    I have guided lots of foreign guests in my hometown Kanazawa, Gokayama, Shirakawago, Takaymam, Kaga, Fukui, and Toyama.
    I have guided FIT, highend FIT, group tour, and bus tours.
    I have been learning tea cemoney, flower arrangement, and noh performance of noh chanting and playing the hand drum.
    I can take you to the experience spot of such traditional cultural spots in my hometown, Kanazawa,

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    Oct 5, 2025
    L
    LightPacker147788
    Kanazawa visit
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Very interesting tour with Masayo. She took us…

    Jun 27, 2025
    H6092PZsuem
    Pleasant and interesting morning
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Masayo was our guide for the morning.…

    Mar 16, 2025
    952bonnieh
    Wonderful!!!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We loved our time with Masayo! Thank you for a…

    Jan 3, 2025
    U5110ZKjades
    A day in Kanazawa with Masayo!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Masayo Shirai was an excellent…

  • Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • PM 12:00 Tour starts from the hotel
    • Transfer: Keihan & Subway, Nippombashi
    • PM 12:30 – 13:15 Kuromon Market, lunch
    • Transfer: Subway, Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka
    • PM 13:45-14:45 Visit Shitennoji Temple
    • Transfer: Subway & JR, Nankai, Sumiyoshi Taisha
    • PM 15:30-16:10 Visit Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
    • Transfer: Nankai, Namba
    • PM 16:30-17:30 From Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street via Hozenji Temple to Dotonbori
    • 　　　　　　　After that, head north through Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street.　
    • PM 17:40 With the guest's consent, after viewing the illumination of Midosuji, the tour ends at Yodoyabashi.

    What's a Private Day Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kuromon Market, Shitennoji, and Dotonbori The guests were a family visiting from North America. Following the itinerary specified by a local travel agency, we carried out the tour, but confirmed that they needed to return to their Hotel before 6:00 p.m. due to a dinner reservation. For lunch, we visited Kuromon Market, where I guided them to reasonably priced shops as we walked back and forth through the market, and they enjoyed skewers of grilled wagyu beef as well as fried sweet potato and strawberry skewers. After that, we visited Shitennoji and Sumiyoshi Taisha. Since it was before the New Year, they were able to sightsee in a quiet environment, and the guests were very pleased. We then moved to Namba, walking from the Sennichimae Doguyasuji shopping street to Dotonbori, and also stopped by Hozenji before enjoying takoyaki and kushikatsu. After that, since there was a little time left, at the guests' request we walked along Shinsaibashi-suji up to Yodoyabashi, ending the tour. It was quite a full day, but I was glad we were able to see the illumination along Midosuji.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainWatanabebashi～Naniwabashi240JPY
    Section 2SubwayKitahama (Osaka)～Nippombashi (Osaka)190JPY
    Section 3SubwayShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka～Tennoji190JPY
    Section 4TrainTennoji～Shin-Imamiya150JPY
    Section 5TrainShin-Imamiya～Sumiyoshi Taisha240JPY
    Section 6TrainSumiyoshi Taisha～Namba (Nankai Line)240JPY
    Total1,250JPY

    Tour Report by YOSHI

    Hello , My name is Hideharu Yoshino . Just call me” Yoshi” .
    I have been involved with many foreign Business partners through my business life for 38 years ,
    Based on my work experience , I would like to try my best to make you comfortale and Happy fruitful times during your stay in Japan .
    Not only giving you basic tourist information about famous sightseeing spot , also I would enjoy to give you the back ground inofrmation in my word.
    ” Once in a lifetime encounter ” Let’s enjoy with me Miracle time to be picked up from 6 billion in somewhere Japan!

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    Jul 25, 2026
    Ann W
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Incredible tour, one of the highlights of my…

    Jul 18, 2026
    Geert73
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Well-Organized and Informative Tour of Kanazawa
    We, a…

    Jul 15, 2026
    G5010ZVmelodys
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Local Food & Tea Culture Tour with Licensed Guide
    Number one guide for personalised touring of Kanazawa
    Our…

    Jul 11, 2026
    rikkes490
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Rigtig god guidet tur
    Rigtig god oplevelse og gode forklaringer

    とても良いガイドツアーでした。
    とても良い体験でした。説明も分かりやすく、とても良かったです。

  • Tokyo: ZOJOJI TEMPLE & Edo Calligraphy Workshop

    Tokyo: ZOJOJI TEMPLE & Edo Calligraphy Workshop

    Edo Tokyo History & Culture Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hotel Indigo Tokyo Shibuya
    • 9:30 1 ZOJOJI TEMPLE
    • 10:45 2 FUKAGAWA EDO MUSEUM
    • 11:30 3 KIYOSUMI GARDENS
    • 12:30 4 Edo Calligraphy Workshop
    • 15:00 See off at the Imperial Palace Starbucks

    What Is a Private Edo-Tokyo Themed Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report This was my first time leading the Edo-Tokyo program, and since I had no prior experience with it, going on a preliminary visit one week beforehand allowed me to guide with confidence. However, two of the sites listed in the standard What to See could not be visited due to renovations and other reasons, and despite the Edo-Tokyo theme, a key attraction was closed. I believe the OTC needs to improve its handling of such cases. I also had some difficulty in the advance correspondence with the guests. As a result, I booked and guided an Edo-moji calligraphy workshop that was not on the What to See list, and one of the guests was so delighted that they were moved to tears at the end.

    Click here for more details: Edo Tokyo History & Culture Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShibuya～Shiba Park390JPY
    Section 2SubwayOnarimon～Kiyosumi-shirakawa290JPY
    Section 3SubwayKiyosumi-shirakawa～Kinshicho180JPY
    Section 4SubwayKinshicho～Otemachi (Tokyo)210JPY
    Total1,070JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    Welcome to Japan. I hope you are going to enjoy your stay.

    Who am I?
    I am a Licensed Guide Interpreter at an age of 61.
    I got an early retirement from 36 yrs of the employment in a Japanese financial sector.
    I hope I can attend to you with the Japanese politeness, hospitality and smile.

    What can I be expected?
    I would like to introduce the photogenic sites, the indigenous experiences
    and good Japanese local food around Tokyo, Hakone/Mt Fuji.
    I might be able to show you the features of shrine and temple with a religious manner if you’d like.
    As a matter of fact, I don’t have a specific religion to believe, though.
    I love Japan and that’s why I started a new career as a guide.

    What do I love?
    Most of all, my family. I have a wife 56 yrs old, a son 28 yrs old and a daughter 25 yrs old.
    I like eating raw fish and sushi, buckwheat noodles and curry rice.

    How do I spend my spear time?
    I run for 5 km in the morning listening to my favorite music.
    I might have a chance to go to a studio program in the fitness club nearby once a week.

    I look forward to meeting you soon.
    Thank you.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    Sandra_U
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Individualized Tour!
    Our tour guide, Masa, was wonderful. The tour…

    Apr 3, 2026
    Celal_S
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour even…
    We had a great tour even…

    Mar 30, 2026
    Johanna H
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6 hour Guided Tour of Tokyo
    We booked the 6…

    Mar 26, 2026
    Chica717
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing private tour with Masa!
    We had the absolute pleasure of spending…

  • Tokyo: Toyosu Market & Tsukiji Outer Market

    Tokyo: Toyosu Market & Tsukiji Outer Market

    Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 5:00 Meet @Hotel
    • 6:20 @Toyosu Market
    • 7:20 @Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 8:00 Disband @Tsukiji Outer Market

    Can You Visit Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market on a Private Tokyo Tour? A Guide's Report I guided a group visiting Japan for the first time to Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market. One of the guests enjoys sushi, and their favorite is medium-fatty tuna (chu-toro), so at Toyosu Market they watched with great excitement as many tuna were auctioned off one after another. The tuna auction viewing had been one of the top items on their sightseeing list, and they were very satisfied with it. At the Tsukiji Outer Market, I gave an overview of the shopping street, recommended several shops for tuna and tamagoyaki (rolled omelet), and then we parted ways on site.

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

    Tour Report by Seky

    Hi friends, I’m Seky, a tour guide in Tokyo, but I cover all over Japan, namely from Hokkaido to Kyushu. I have lived overseas for more than 15 years in total, such as US, UK, Singapore and others, and enjoyed local culture there. Back in Japan, I wish I could help travelers to Japan enjoy Japanese culture, and this is why I became a tour guide.
    In Tokyo, my favorite places are Shibuya, Harajuku, Asakusa, and if you are interested in fish market, I’d love to take you to the world largest Tuna auction and/or if you are sports lovers, I’ll go to ball games (baseball) too.

    Request Booking

    May 8, 2025
    J
    jeanne_c
    Sell was very…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sell was very knowledgeable and willing to talk…

    Mar 2, 2025
    Joe_F
    Excellent Custom Tokyo Tour
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour, customized to my interests, Edo period…

    Mar 1, 2025
    R2911ISjoef
    Excellent Custom Tours, Great Guides, Reasonable Prices.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a friendly…

    Oct 27, 2024
    Jennifer_G
    Great day touring Tokyo !
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Government Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 7 persons)
    We had…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace and East Gardens

    Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace and East Gardens

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at the Marunouchi side, north exit of Tokyo Station, then walk to Otemon Gate and the East Gardens
    • 10:15-11:30　Stroll through the Imperial Palace and East Gardens.
    • 11:50-12:50　Stroll through Ueno Ameyoko, then have lunch at a sushi restaurant
    • 13:00-13:50　Stroll around Shinobazu Pond, Kaneiji Temple, and the campus of Tokyo University of the Arts
    • 14:15-15:30　Sightseeing in Asakusa. Guide around Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, and the surrounding area.
    • 16:00　Guide to Kagurazaka Station near the accommodation, then part ways.

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Tour of Ueno and Asakusa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They had a strong interest in Japanese history and culture, and asked some remarkably in-depth questions. They listened attentively to my explanations. When I took the group to a sushi restaurant in Ueno that I often visit, everyone was truly impressed. Ameyoko was very crowded, but they said they felt they were seeing the real face of Japan. In Asakusa, we spent a good deal of time, exploring not only Senso-ji Temple and Asakusa Shrine but also the surrounding area. They showed great interest in the history of Asakusa and in religious topics such as honji suijaku.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTokyo～Ueno170JPY
    Section 2TrainUeno～Asakusa180JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa～Kagurazaka210JPY
    Total560JPY

    Tour Report by Mitch

    I am certified as a Top Guide by the JGA.
    Drawing on my past experience as a guide, where I have consistently received positive feedback from guests, I will focus on the following key points in my guiding:
    Explain the historical transition from Edo to Tokyo through engaging episodes and stories.
    Offer a cross-cultural perspective on why concepts such as honji suijaku (the idea of local deities being manifestations of Buddhist figures), as seen at places like Meiji Shrine, represent a worldview that Japan can be proud of.
    Provide warm and humorous interaction, incorporating the spirit of hospitality I learned while studying at Columbia University in the United States.
    Use my experience working at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government to explain Tokyo’s present-day situation with the support of statistical data.

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    Jul 7, 2026
    Ruppa_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great guide and first experience in Tokyo
    It was our first time…

    Jun 8, 2026
    TAMARA_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience!
    Great experience, learning a lot. Get to see a lots…

    May 7, 2026
    Marianela25
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great customized Itinerary with Mitch!
    Mitch was a fantastic tour guide. He…

    Apr 29, 2026
    163neilh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Asakusa Sensouji Temple, Imperial Palace & Meiji Shrine.
    We had a fantastic…

  • Hokkaido in Half a Day: Odori Park & Sapporo Beer Museum

    Hokkaido in Half a Day: Odori Park & Sapporo Beer Museum

    Sapporo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:55 Meet up @ Nijo Market
    • 13:40 Odori Park
    • 14:20 Former Hokkaido Government Office
    • 16:10 Sapporo Beer Museum
    • 17:00 Tour ends @ Sapporo Beer Museum

    **Title:** What Is a Private Walking Tour of Sapporo Like in Winter? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America. Having personally enjoyed and visited their home region several times in the past, I was glad to be able to talk quite a lot about that area, which helped build a good rapport. On this day, the temperature had dropped suddenly after a warm day the day before, making the roads slippery, so we walked with great care. We took a taxi from the former Hokkaido Government Office to the Sapporo Beer Garden, but the roads were slippery there as well, so the trip took longer than usual. Originally I had planned to also visit the Sapporo Clock Tower, but since we ended up spending quite a long time outdoors and one of the guests appeared to feel the cold, I decided to skip that stop and instead moved to the former Hokkaido Government Office by walking through the underground shopping arcade.

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

    Tour Report by Tom

    I was born and raised in Hokkaido and have been a resident of Sapporo for over 30 years. I have been actively involved in guiding tourists around the scenic spots of Hokkaido, primarily focusing on Sapporo. Even before becoming a licensed interpreter guide, I engaged in volunteer activities to assist and guide foreigners, providing me with valuable opportunities to delve into the rich culture and history of Hokkaido.
    Hokkaido is renowned for its exceptional culinary scene, and I am well-versed in gourmet information. I believe I can offer an excellent experience by guiding individuals through the highly acclaimed food experiences that Hokkaido has to offer.

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    Apr 22, 2026
    Agent PT A
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Super Sapporo in April with Tom.
    Tom was kind…

    Feb 10, 2026
    Alan_C
    Very enjoyable and well…
    Viator review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Very enjoyable and well worth it. Our…

    Sep 24, 2025
    saratW9816BN
    Tour up to the Moiwa mountain and lots more
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We’ve had…

    Sep 2, 2025
    roxannerW1499FK
    Great experience!
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful city tour with Tom in…

  • Nara in One Day: Kintetsu-Nara Station's EAST ticket gate & Nara-machi

    Nara in One Day: Kintetsu-Nara Station’s EAST ticket gate & Nara-machi

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:18 の予定がゲストの電車乗り換え間違いで
    • 10:30 Kintetsu-Nara Station's EAST ticket gate (Start of Guided Tour)
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 10:35 Nakatanidou
    • 10:40-11:10 Kofukuji Buddhist Temple Museum　entrance 900y
    • walk 20 minutes
    • 11:40-12:10 Kasuga-taisha Shinto Shrine (UNESCO World Heritage)
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 12:20-30 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill:
    • Former katana sword manufacturer's, etc.
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 12:40- Todaiji Buddhist Temple (UNESCO World Heritage):
    • 12:40-13:10 Todaiji's Nigatsudo Hall (Lunch at Emado Chaya)
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 13:20-30 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 13:40-14:10 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 14:20-30 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate)
    • walk 15 minutes
    • 15:20- Nara-machi (Old Quarters of the town):
    • Sake tasting, shopping street etc.
    • walk 10 minutes
    • 17:00 (End of Tour) back at Kintetsu-Nara Station

    Title: What Is a Private Nara Tour Like with a Licensed Guide? A Japan Guide Agency Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Some of the guests spoke several languages, including English, Russian, Kazakh, Hebrew, and a little Yiddish, while others in the group were bilingual in English and Russian and also understood a fair amount of Chinese. Our conversation ranged widely and never ran dry — we talked about Nara, Einstein, and Buddhism, about how "Fiddler on the Roof" enjoyed a record-breaking long run in Japan, and the story of the world-renowned violinist David Oistrakh, who, after seeing the Japanese production of "Fiddler on the Roof," assumed that its leading actor was Jewish. I learned a great deal from them. The way one of the guests spoke was logical, assertive, concise, and clear. I am told they would love to visit Nara again.

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

    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
    ????? Absolutely Outstanding ? Junichi Made Our Nara Day…

    Mar 30, 2026
    dpadillachavez
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
    Great day at Nara!
    Best tour on Nara, Junichi…

  • Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Kiyomizu-dera

    Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Kiyomizu-dera

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet at Hyatt Regency Kyoto
    • 09:15 to 10:05 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 10:40 to 11:30 Kinkaku-ji
    • 12:00 to 12:30 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 12:35 to 13:20 Lunch at Washoku Sato
    • 14:00 to 14:50 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 15:00 Disband at Kyatt Regency Kyoto

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Sightseeing Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group of seven visiting from North America. The tour was arranged through [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. Some of the guests had come from a warmer region and some from a colder region, so their preferences for the car's air conditioning differed considerably. Those used to warmer weather found Kyoto cold and wanted the heating on, while those used to colder weather felt warm and preferred light air conditioning. There was some friendly disagreement, and at first the group settled on light air conditioning for a while. However, at the request of the driver and myself, we eventually switched to light heating. Kyoto today was cold even for me. The tour was able to cover all of the requested spots within the allotted time, just as the guests had hoped.

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

    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…