Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Odaiba

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Odaiba

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Tokyo International Cruise Terminal Meet
    • 10:20 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:00 Imperial Palace: Nijubashi Bridge
    • 13:20 Shinjuku Stroll
    • 14:00 Shibuya
    • 15:00 Odaiba
    • 15:00 Tour ends at Odaiba

    タイトル欄： What's a One-Day Private Cruise Port Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report 本文欄： The guests were a group visiting from North America. They arrived on a cruise ship via Alaska, with Tokyo as their first port of call. Since the ship was docked for only one day, the tour was arranged to match their wish to see as many places as possible. First, we headed to the Tsukiji Outer Market so they could enjoy fresh sushi. At Namiyoke Shrine and Higashi Honganji Temple near the market, I explained the differences between Shinto and Buddhism and the influence each has had on Japanese culture, so it could serve as a reference for their later ports of call in Japan. At Nijubashi Bridge in front of the Imperial Palace, I talked about the modern history of Japan and Tokyo and about the Imperial Family, and they were impressed, saying it was all new to them. We had planned to go to Meiji Shrine next, but the plan changed suddenly at the request to see the "3D cat billboard" and the "Godzilla Head" in Shinjuku, so we headed there instead. At the Shibuya crossing, there was also a wish to enjoy the view from the Starbucks, so we changed the plan again and stopped by, and they happily took many photos of the crowds at the Shibuya crossing from the second floor. Finally, I showed them the "fountain show" in Odaiba, and we ended the tour at that spot. A notable stop on the tour was the Tsukiji Outer Market. Tsukiji was once home to the world's largest wholesale fish market, and while the inner wholesale market has relocated, the Outer Market remains a lively district filled with shops and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, including sushi, as well as kitchenware, dried goods, and a variety of Japanese ingredients, making it a popular destination for experiencing local food culture.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTokyo International Cruise Terminal～Shiodome330JPY
    Section 2TrainTsukiji～Hibiya180JPY
    Section 3TrainSakuradamon～Ichigaya180JPY
    Section 4TrainIchigaya～Shinjuku180JPY
    Section 5TrainShinjuku～Shibuya200JPY
    Section 6TrainShibuya～Shimbashi180JPY
    Section 7TrainShimbashi～Daiba330JPY
    Total1,580JPY

    Tour Report by Atsushi

    Hello and welcome to Tokyo!

    I have been working for business with American companies for many years. I have many experiences guiding customers from around the world in Japan and taking Japanese customers to the USA and Europe.

    I now have a national license as a guiding interpreter, and I want to introduce the unique gigantic city of Tokyo and the traditional Japanese culture, which is not shown in the guidebooks, to people worldwide who are interested in it. In addition, I want to introduce various Japanese foods you can enjoy only in Japan.
    Unique experiences such as the Sumo Training Viewing and Tea Ceremony are optionally available.
    Depending on your preference and itinerary, I can guide you in Tokyo, Kamakura, and Hakone so that you can enjoy your time in Japan.

    Request Booking

    Aug 18, 2026
    Heather_C
    Private tour for 4 in Tokyo – highly recommend
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide…

    Aug 8, 2026
    victoriahD2588SK
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    An action packed visit to Hakone!
    Atsushi was an…

    Jul 26, 2026
    Kevin_B
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Highly recommend this tour for first time…

    Jun 22, 2026
    Ashish_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best Tour for a Short Visit
    Atsushi-san was an incredibly well-researched and…

  • Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    October, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 07:00 Tour starts from the hotel
    • Travel by train to Nara
    • AM 08:00- 09:00 Walk to Yoshikien Garden via Kofukuji Temple
    • AM 09:00-09:30 Visit Yoshikien Garden
    • Travel on foot to Todaiji Temple
    • AM 09:45-10:30 Visit Todaiji Temple
    • Travel on foot to Nigatsudo Hall
    • AM 10:45-11:30 Visit Nigatsudo Hall and rest, visit Tamukeyama Hachimangu Shrine
    • Travel on foot to Kasuga Taisha Shrine via Mount Wakakusa
    • PM 12:00-12:45 Visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • Travel on foot to Naramachi via the Second Torii Gate and Ukimido Hall
    • PM 13:30-14:30 Stroll around Naramachi and lunch
    • PM 14:30 Tour disbands at Naramachi Monogatari Museum
    • Travel by train to Kyoto PM 15:45 Arrive at Kyoto Station

    Title: What Is a Private Day Trip from Kyoto to Nara Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: The guests were visiting from North America. They had relatives in Chiba Prefecture and came to visit them, and as part of their trip they added a stay in Kyoto and a day trip to Nara. Since there were no particular requests, I guided them along a typical Nara course. I believe the most enjoyable parts were Yoshikien Garden, feeding the deer, and lunch. The guests seemed to work in a design-related field, and at Todai-ji Temple they took great interest and listened carefully to my explanations about the architecture. I knew that the guests had reserved the Aoniyoshi sightseeing train departing from Kintetsu Nara Station at 15:55, so after lunch, with the guests' agreement, I concluded the tour at 14:30 and returned to Kyoto Station at 15:45. A notable stop on the tour was Todai-ji Temple in Nara. Todai-ji is one of Japan's most famous and historically significant temples, originally constructed in the 8th century. Its Great Buddha Hall (Daibutsuden) is one of the largest wooden buildings in the world and houses a monumental bronze statue of the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), standing about 15 meters tall. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a centerpiece of Nara's cultural heritage, drawing visitors interested in its remarkable architecture, history, and the surrounding deer park.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Kintetsu Nara760JPY
    Section 2TrainKintetsu Nara～Kyoto760JPY
    Total1,520JPY

    Tour Report by YOSHI

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

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    Sep 29, 2026
    matthewsY2654UC
    Highly recommended!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Yoshi is an exceptional guide where he took us…

    Sep 28, 2026
    751juergend
    Perfect day in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the perfect guide, very…

    Sep 27, 2026
    karen_f
    YOSHI san was incredible!
    Viator review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    YOSHI met us at our…

    Sep 19, 2026
    Plumb72
    A morning in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a fab tour with Yoshi…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①　09:00　Meet at hotel
    • ②　09:05　Explanation of today's itinerary & about the history of Kyoto
    • ③　10:00　Daitoku-ji Temple・Obai-in
    • ④　11:30　Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • ⑤　12:30　Nijo Castle
    • ⑥　13:40　Lunch break around the Sanjo area
    • ⑦　14:40　To-ji Temple (Kyoogokoku-ji)
    • ⑧　15:20　Disband at hotel

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Temple Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Daitoku-ji, Kinkaku-ji, and To-ji Body: The guests were visiting from Europe. Family members had traveled to Japan earlier this year and strongly recommended the trip, which encouraged them to make the journey. One of them had been very eager to come, while the other had not been especially fond of overseas travel. Beforehand I received an email with many possible destinations, and based on their main interests we settled on this itinerary. Their journey covered Tokyo, Hakone, Hida-Takayama, Kanazawa, and Hiroshima, then back to Osaka and on to Kyoto. They also planned to visit Koyasan before returning home from Kansai Airport a week later. We talked about how long the journey still was. As we chatted, we realized we were of a similar generation, even joking about which month we were born in, and despite different backgrounds there was a sense of connection as peers of the same era. Both of the guests were in the medical field, with broad interests and quick understanding. We focused mainly on temples, visiting Daitoku-ji, Kinkaku-ji, and To-ji, each a completely different type of temple. They listened with great interest to topics such as what Zen is, what wabi-sabi means, why a shogun would build such a dazzling golden temple, what a shogun even was, the difference between To-ji and Sai-ji, what a five-story pagoda is, and what Shingon esoteric Buddhism is. Over lunch the conversation turned to dialects, and we had an interesting discussion about the differences between the Kanto and Kansai languages. They mentioned that even for people from their home city, the English spoken by people in certain northern regions and islands, including Gaelic, is so distinctive that they cannot understand it at all. Hearing this, I felt quite relieved and reassured. As we parted, I asked them to remember Shingon esoteric Buddhism and Dainichi Nyorai when they visited Koyasan. Once again I was able to spend a lively, enjoyable, and meaningful day. A notable stop on the tour was Kinkaku-ji in Kyoto. Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a Zen Buddhist temple whose top two floors are covered in gold leaf. Originally built as a retirement villa for a shogun in the late 14th century, it was later converted into a temple. Set beside a reflecting pond and surrounded by a carefully designed garden, it is one of Kyoto's most iconic and frequently visited sites.

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

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    September, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel ~ 10:20 Kyoto Imperial Palace ~ 11::30 Kiyomizu-dera Temple ~ 13:30 Gion

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Kiyomizu-dera, and Gion During the pre-tour consultation, the guests mentioned that they would be staying in Kyoto for a few more days and hoped to discover something on this day that could offer hints for the rest of their trip. They had a strong interest in Japanese culture and listened attentively to the explanation of the Imperial Palace. They found it fascinating that nobles had different types of waiting rooms depending on their rank. At Kiyomizu-dera, they enjoyed the view from around the West Gate, but rather than entering the temple itself, they mainly strolled along Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka. They had long been interested in Gion, and watched with delight as people passed by wearing beautiful kimono. A notable stop on the tour was Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto. Kiyomizu-dera is a historic Buddhist temple founded in 778 and is one of the most celebrated landmarks in Kyoto. It is famous for its large wooden stage that juts out from the main hall, offering sweeping views of the surrounding cherry and maple trees as well as the city below. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the approach to it, including the sloping streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, is lined with traditional shops and tea houses that preserve the atmosphere of old Kyoto.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto～Imadegawa260JPY
    Total260JPY

    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.

    Request Booking

    Jul 30, 2026
    Donald_C
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    A Day to Remember!
    Etsuko was so knowledgeable and as…

    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…

  • Hyogo in One Day: Sanjusangendo & Port

    Hyogo in One Day: Sanjusangendo & Port

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Kobe: Private Car Tour, Licensed Guide

    October, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at the port
    • 9:30 Sanjusangendo (including the garden)
    • 11:30 Stroll through Gion Shirakawa
    • 12:20 Nijo Castle
    • 13:20 Lunch (shopping mall) 15:20 Arashiyama, bamboo grove
    • 17:00 Port

    What Can You See on a Private Kyoto Day Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests arrived from a cruise ship. Since walking long distances was difficult for part of the group, I planned the itinerary around places that were easy to access right from the parking area and where a wheelchair rental was available. They were very pleased with every location, which made me very happy. They had researched Japan before their trip and asked many questions about historical dates at the places we visited. They had also watched the film "Shogun" and showed a very deep interest in Nijo Castle. They also enjoyed the scenery of Gion Shirakawa and Arashiyama, as well as the bamboo grove, and I believe they had a very meaningful sightseeing experience even in the light rain. Along the way, they were approached by local high school students and a group wearing rental kimono, and they enjoyed the friendly interaction. A notable stop on the tour was Nijo Castle in Kyoto. Nijo Castle was built in the early 17th century as the Kyoto residence of the Tokugawa shoguns, the rulers of Japan during the Edo period. It is famous for its "nightingale floors," which were designed to chirp when walked upon as a security measure against intruders, and for the elegant Ninomaru Palace with its beautifully painted sliding doors. The castle is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and remains one of Kyoto's most popular historical landmarks.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto in 1 Day from Kobe: Private Car Tour, Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Chiyuki

    Hello, I am a tour guide, Chiyuki. If I write my name in Japanese, it means one thousand happiness. Please call me Chiyuki. I am looking forward to seeing you.
    I have been guiding many visitors from all parts of the world since I became a tour guide.
    I hope Japan can attract many people with beautiful scenery, culture, historical buildings, food and so on. What are you interested in?
    And I couldn’t be happier if I can help you to create memories of a wonderful trip.
    I will make my best effort to satisfy my guests. See you soon. Thank you very much. Chiyuki

    Request Booking

    Aug 9, 2026
    Angelika_H
    Viator review: Kyoto in 1 Day from Kobe: Private Car Tour, Licensed Guide
    Tour
    Super Tour who was Shaped for us…

    Jul 9, 2026
    727tessv
    We had the best time in Kobe
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our guide Chiyuki was…

    Jun 21, 2026
    M9524SIphilippel
    Tripadvisor review: Exploring Nada Sake Breweries Kobe Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sake tour in Kobe
    Chiyuki is one of the…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Pinoy V
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very interesting and informative.
    Chiyuki kept us informed on our itinerary…

  • Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle

    Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle

    Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at hotel
    • 10:20–12:00 Dotonbori, Hozenji Yokocho, Doguyasuji, Kuromon Market
    • 12:10–14:00 Lunch (Kobe beef)
    • 14:00–15:50 Osaka Castle
    • 15:50–16:15 Travel to the Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan)
    • 16:15 Tour ends

    Title: What's a Private Osaka Day Tour Like with Dotonbori, Osaka Castle, and the Aquarium? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: Riding the subway seemed to be a new experience for the group, and they found it quite fresh. One of them had set up a Suica card on a smartwatch, but it was for one person only, and when passing through the ticket gate the security had not been released, so it got stuck. A station attendant checked it, but since they changed their mind and would be making a round trip to Osaka Port, they purchased the one-day metro pass I recommended for everyone. Although it was a large group, the later transfers went smoothly. The guests were interested in Pokemon and Japanese anime, and had I known in advance I would have taken them to the Pokemon Center, but they still found plenty of items they liked at a shop in Namba, which was great. We also allowed time for shopping. They mentioned wanting to eat Kobe beef, so I sent a link to a restaurant, but they said they wanted to see and decide for themselves, so we looked around Dotonbori and Kuromon Market. In addition, one of them wanted to eat ramen, and we found a place that met the condition of serving both Kobe beef and ramen, so we went in, but it was very expensive. I felt that places that do not display their prices outside are risky. Still, the service was good and everyone enjoyed it. They grilled the beef with a torch right in front of us and everyone shouted "Fire." It had the feel of a maid cafe, and I learned something about hospitality, but in any case we spent more time here than expected. At Osaka Castle we only looked from the outside and took photos. Finally, I saw them off at the Kaiyukan aquarium. Along the way they were delighted by the huge Lego displays and Legoland. A notable stop on the tour was Dotonbori in Osaka. Dotonbori is one of Osaka's most famous entertainment and dining districts, running alongside the Dotonbori Canal in the Namba area. It is known for its dazzling neon signs, including the iconic running Glico man billboard, as well as its many restaurants and street food stalls. The area is a popular destination for visitors wanting to experience Osaka's vibrant food culture, often called "kuidaore," meaning to eat until you drop.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayYodoyabashi～Namba (Subway)190JPY
    Section 2SubwayNippombashi (Osaka)～Tanimachi 4-chome190JPY
    Section 3SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Osakako290JPY
    Total670JPY

    Tour Report by Yuki

    Hi! I’m an official English guide in Wakayama prefecture. I’m also a national guide as well. I’d like to expand my guide area to help tourists.
    The town of Osaka offers a different atmosphere than Tokyo. I like both exciting Osaka and nature-filled Wakayama Prefecture.
    If you stay in Osaka for 3 days, you can go to Koyasan for one day, or even for a day trip, so I recommend sightseeing at Koyasan.
    If you are tired of the hustle and bustle of the big city, the nature of Koyasan will relax you.
    I will introduce you to the unique culture, history and must-see sights.

    Request Booking

    Aug 17, 2026
    yasmintX6792FN
    Great trip
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Sites Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    It was a great time and very interesting…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Shelley_E
    Viator review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    There is much to do in…
    There is much to…

    May 28, 2026
    Duncan_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Great Tour of Kyoto
    The tour was both very informative and…

    May 28, 2026
    ignaciosilenzi
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Koyasan with Miyuki
    Miyuki was…

  • Nara Day Trip by Car: Kyoto to Osaka

    Nara Day Trip by Car: Kyoto to Osaka

    Nara Day Trip by Car: Kyoto to Osaka with Licensed Guide

    October, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Hotel meet-up　10:35 Todai-ji Temple　11:15 Nara Park (feeding the deer) 11:50 Kasuga Taisha Shrine　12:35 Yoshikien Garden　13:30 Nigiwai-no-Ie House 14:20 Lunch (tonkatsu)
    • 15:20 Harushika Brewery (sake tasting)　16:10 Departure from Nara　17:15 Arrival at Hotel

    タイトル: What's a Private One-Day Nara Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests visited Japan from North America. One of them had been to Japan once before, while it was the first visit for the other. As mentioned in the tour time section above, the weather was not good from the morning. We managed to visit Todai-ji Temple, Nara Park, and Kasuga Taisha Shrine fairly smoothly in the morning, but around Yoshikien Garden the rain began to fall in earnest. The original plan had included shopping in Naramachi, but the guests suggested they did not wish to shop, and partly because of the rain, we decided to end the tour a little earlier than planned. However, I believe they enjoyed the tour itself. Since they had eaten breakfast at 9:00, lunch was late, but they ordered two pork curries. They were also pleased with the sake tasting afterward. It was a pity that the weather was not on our side. The photo was taken in front of the Great Buddha Hall at Todai-ji Temple. A notable stop on the tour was Todai-ji Temple in Nara. Todai-ji is one of Japan's most famous and historically significant temples, originally established in the 8th century. It houses the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), a monumental bronze statue of Vairocana Buddha that stands about 15 meters tall. The Great Buddha Hall (Daibutsuden) that shelters the statue is one of the largest wooden structures in the world. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and remains a central landmark of Japan's ancient capital, drawing visitors who come to admire its scale, craftsmanship, and spiritual importance. The surrounding Nara Park, home to freely roaming deer, adds to the area's distinctive atmosphere.

    Click here for more details: Nara Day Trip by Car: Kyoto to Osaka with Licensed Guide

    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.

    Request Booking

    Sep 28, 2026
    Miguel_E
    Amazing Service
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful time with Kazuo.…

    Sep 27, 2026
    T
    TrailBlazer47194
    Kazuo Sumi is a great guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide Kazuo Sumi…

    Sep 1, 2026
    Steve6172014
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 7, 2026
    Pascale_Q
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Very good private tour of Kyoto with Kazuo
    We had…

  • Tokyo: Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine & Oshino Hakkai

    Tokyo: Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine & Oshino Hakkai

    Mt. Fuji Day Trip from Tokyo by Car with Licensed Guide

    October, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Meeting point: 2-8-6 Shibaura, Minato-ku
    • 10:30-11:10 Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine
    • 11:10-11:30 Move to Kawaguchi Asama Shrine
    • 11:30-12:15 Kawaguchi Asama Shrine + Sky Torii Gate
    • 12:30-13:30 Lunch – Sushi Yutaka
    • 13:30 – 14:00 　Move to Narusawa Ice Cave
    • 14:00 -14:30 　Narusawa Ice Cave
    • 14:30 -15:00 Move to Oshino Hakkai
    • 15:00-15:30 Oshino Hakkai
    • 15:30-17:30 Move to Tokyo 　　　　　　　Dismissal: 2-8-6 Shibaura, Minato-ku

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour from Tokyo to the Mount Fuji Area Like? A Licensed Guide's Report That morning was unfortunately cloudy, and when we climbed up to the Chureito Pagoda at Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine, Mount Fuji was completely hidden by the clouds and not visible at all. Afterward, when we returned to the parking lot, the clouds drifted away and Mount Fuji revealed itself, and the guests broke into big smiles. We hurried to the next spot, Kawaguchi Asama Shrine. At the Sky Torii gate, I was able to take wonderful group photos of the guests with Mount Fuji in the background! For lunch, the guests enjoyed sushi, and then we went to the Narusawa Ice Cave. Along with the entrance to the Aokigahara forest at the foot of Mount Fuji, the guests appreciated the history of Mount Fuji's eruptions and the beauty of nature. Finally, at Oshino Hakkai, the guests viewed the beautiful ponds, and then we headed back to Tokyo. Although there was Sunday traffic, we had an enjoyable conversation along with the driver, arrived home safely, and the tour came to an end. A notable stop on the tour was Oshino Hakkai, a set of eight clear spring-water ponds located near Mount Fuji. These ponds are fed by snowmelt from Mount Fuji that has filtered through layers of lava over many decades, resulting in remarkably clear water. The site is a designated Natural Monument and is well known for its traditional scenery, with thatched-roof buildings and views of Mount Fuji making it a popular stop for visitors exploring the region.

    Click here for more details: Mt. Fuji Day Trip from Tokyo by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Yosh

    Hi I am Yosh, very nice to meet you!
    I am a tour guide around Tokyo and surrounding areas including Nikko, Kamakura, Hakone and Mt. Fuji area with qualification of nationwide professional tour guiding.
    I have been practicing Japanese martial arts, Karate and Aikido, from my childhood and I teach kids and beginners at Dojo school as an instructor.
    From my background I am especially into a tour guiding about Samurai, Sumo and Zen style temples deeply related with Japanese martial arts.
    I was born, raised and live in Tokyo and Kanagawa prefecture for over 50 years, so I am familiar with Tokyo capital area and I can arrange the free choice tour for you based on your taste and interest.
    I also want you to enjoy Japanese cuisine and Sake at traditional or modern restaurants as part of Japanese precious culture experience.
    I really like my profession of tour guide because I am always shared with happy emotion of the guests through the tour.
    I am really look forward to seeing you soon!
    Yosh

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    Sep 28, 2026
    K3747HYmarks
    A wonderful day In Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our day in Tokyo…

    Aug 24, 2026
    kennethtK422SR
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    Great Hakone experience
    Yosh was great. Very knowledgeable, informative…

    Apr 28, 2026
    W2790JIlorih
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fun and Informative
    We had a wonderful 4hr walking tour with our…

    Mar 21, 2026
    Michael A
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    100% worth the money and time
    Amazing tour walking through beautiful…

  • Tokyo: Meiji Shrine & Yurakucho to Ginza

    Tokyo: Meiji Shrine & Yurakucho to Ginza

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    October, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hotel
    • 9:15 Purchase Welcome Suica at Shinjuku Station
    • 9:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 10:50 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 12:35 Lunch @ Tenkaippin Iidabashi Branch
    • 13:15 Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    • 14:30 Asakusa (Skytree photos)
    • 15:50 Ueno Park, Kiyomizu Kannon-do, Ueno Toshogu
    • 16:40 Yurakucho to Ginza
    • 17:10 Disband at Shinjuku Golden Gai

    Title: What Does a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather was fine, and the tour proceeded smoothly. Since one member of the group was not feeling well, the tour was conducted with the rest of the guests. We started by purchasing Welcome Suica cards at Shinjuku Station. At Meiji Shrine, it was crowded from the morning. There were people attending weddings and shrine visits for newborns, and the guests were delighted to see them. After the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, we had a meal in Iidabashi and then went to Korakuen Garden. Since it was not the usual single loop course, I was a little confused, but I was able to guide them through most of the highlights. Asakusa also had good weather, but it was quite crowded. We went around Ueno Park, and since Ginza was along the way, we briefly saw it before parting ways as planned at Shinjuku Golden Gai. A tip was received. A notable stop on the tour was Meiji Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Located in a tranquil forest of over 100,000 trees in the heart of Tokyo, it offers a peaceful escape from the busy city. Visitors often have the chance to witness traditional Shinto ceremonies, including weddings and shrine visits for newborns, which make the experience especially memorable.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Harajuku160JPY
    Section 2Free PassMeiji-jingumae～Otemachi700JPY
    Section 3Free PassTakebashi～Iidabashi0JPY
    Section 4TrainSuidobashi～Asakusa340JPY
    Section 5Free PassAsakusa～Ueno0JPY
    Section 6TrainUeno～Yurakucho200JPY
    Section 7Free PassGinza～Shinjuku-sanchome0JPY
    Total1,400JPY

    Tour Report by Koba

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

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    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Herb Garden & Sannomiya Center Street

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Herb Garden & Sannomiya Center Street

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 14:00 Meet at Port Terminal
    • 14:30 Herb Garden (Fragrance Museum, Glass House)
    • 16:15 Sannomiya Center Street
    • 17:30 Disband at Port Terminal

    What's a Private Kobe Herb Garden Tour Like on a Rainy Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests came from Oceania. We first visited the herb garden the guests had requested, but the rain was so heavy that the view from the ropeway was completely white. Even so, at the summit station they thoroughly enjoyed the fragrance museum, checking the scent of each bottle one by one. After that, we walked down to the middle station in the rain. The guests seemed quite interested in flowers and herbs, stopping here and there even in the bad weather, taking photos of flowers and walking slowly. They also spent plenty of time viewing the glass house. Afterward, they said they wanted to do some shopping, so we returned to the Sannomiya Center Gai shopping street and stopped by a shoe shop and a clothing store. I had also wanted to introduce Nankinmachi and the waterfront, but as the guests seemed tired, I saw them off at the port terminal according to their wishes. A notable stop on the tour was the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden. Located on the slopes of Mount Rokko, it is one of the largest herb gardens in Japan and is accessible by ropeway offering sweeping views of Kobe city and the harbor. The garden features a wide variety of herbs and seasonal flowers, along with greenhouses, a fragrance museum, and themed gardens where visitors can learn about and enjoy the scents and uses of many plants throughout the year.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainPort Terminal～Sannomiya210JPY
    Section 2BusSubway Sannomiya Station / Shinki Bus～Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden & Ropeway / Shinki Bus300JPY
    Section 3BusKobe Nunobiki Herb Garden & Ropeway / Shinki Bus～Subway Sannomiya Station / Shinki Bus300JPY
    Section 4TrainSannomiya～Port Terminal210JPY
    Total1,020JPY

    Tour Report by Nao

    Hello ! I’m Nao, guiding in Kansai, West Japan. I was born and raised in Himeji, near Himeji castle. I love music, watching movies, and of course taking a trip. I stayed in the US for three years, and took a trip to Hawaii, Canada and Indonesia. Those experiences are good sweet memories for me. Visiting places you don’t know much & touching new cultures are exciting and refreshing.
    Wear Kimono in Kyoto, eat Takoyaki in Osaka, feed cute deer in Nara, meet SAMURAI in Himeji (fake one though) and eat Kobe beef and drink Sake in Kobe.
    Let’s make good memories together in Japan. I’m looking forward to seeing you. Nao

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    Apr 12, 2026
    Ralf V
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    Wir hatten eine tolle Zeit mit Naoka.
    Alles mit Bus und…

    Apr 2, 2026
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    Tour the Himeji Castle with Nao San. You will enjoy more.
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    Apr 15, 2025
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    Nov 21, 2024
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    A great tour!
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    The special knowledge shared by our tour guide Noe…