Category: Uncategorized

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

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

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Hotel Meet
    • 09:30 Miyajima
    • 12:30 Lunch
    • 13:30 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 16:30 Atomic Bomb Dome (dismissal)

    Can You Do a Private Family-Friendly Tour of Miyajima? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. The tour began in a warm and relaxed atmosphere, with the guests smiling as we chatted about coffee. To ease physical strain during the tour, we prioritized using elevators and escalators for getting around. It began to drizzle partway through, but at Miyajima we avoided slopes as much as possible and carefully selected the sites to visit, keeping the itinerary comfortable and manageable. Throughout the day, the tour was designed with safety and comfort in mind.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusTakaramachi Kita / Hiroshima Bus～Hiroshima240JPY
    Section 2TrainHiroshima～Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 3TrainMiyajimaguchi～Nishi-Hiroshima330JPY
    Section 4BusNishi-Hiroshima～Atomic Bomb Dome240JPY
    Total1,230JPY

    Tour Report by Yuji

    Originally, I’m a cycling guide doing cycling tours all over Japan.
    But, already done Hiroshima & Miyajima tour more than 400 times.
    I traveled many countries in my younger days. I traveled Europe, US, China, India, US, Mexico, Peru Australia, NZ, and so on.
    I decided to use this experience to become a guide.
    I’m afraid but no tipping required, because cycling guides are not allowed to have tipping in my association. And you do not need to pay for my lunch, because my lunch is prepared by our group.
    Please do not hesitate to ask me anything, I’ll change the plan according to your requests.
    Thank you for your understanding and please stay connected.

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    Jun 1, 2026
    John_W
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    A top day with a top guide
    My wife…

    May 27, 2026
    Annabelle_C
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima in a day
    Yuji was a great communicator…

    May 12, 2026
    satishp656
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    HIROSHIMA HALF DAY TOUR
    Yuji is a warm, knowledgeble…

    May 10, 2026
    StephanieB6076
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Incredible Experience
    We had an incredible experience visiting Hiroshima…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Kyoto Imperial Palace & Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Kyoto Imperial Palace & Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Hotel Glad One Kyoto Shichijo Meet-up
    • 10:10 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 11:55 Nijo Castle
    • 13:30 Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
    • 14:20 Lunch at Togenkyo
    • 15:20 Disband at Kyoto Station Bus Terminal

    What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today I guided the guests visiting from Europe. They had already traveled through Hiroshima, Osaka, and Nara, and were planning to head to Tokyo next. They were interested in the Japanese language and had been studying it on their own, and I was surprised at how many words they already knew. The Kyoto Imperial Palace was not very crowded, so we were able to take our time going around, which was nice. Nijo Castle also happened to be at a good time and was not too crowded, so I was able to give explanations at a relaxed pace, which was great. In the garden the cherry blossoms were already in bloom, and the guests were delighted. Kinkaku-ji Temple also had relatively few people, perhaps because it had started to rain, so we were able to go around slowly. Since lunch had become late, I suggested ramen, and the guests said they very much wanted to try it, so we went together to Togenkyo. Afterward they asked if there were any recommended places, and when I suggested Sanjusangendo, they said they wanted to go and asked me to explain how to get there, so I accompanied them to the Kyoto Station bus stop and gave directions. As a result the tour ran considerably over time, for which I apologize.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGojo (Kyoto Municipal)～Imadegawa260JPY
    Section 2SubwayImadegawa～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 3BusNijojo-mae / Kyoto City Bus～Kinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4BusKinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus～Kitaoji Bus Terminal (Subway Kitaoji Station) / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 5SubwayKitaoji～Kyoto260JPY
    Total1,200JPY

    Tour Report by Kaeko

    Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

    Request Booking

    Jul 25, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Half-day with private guide in Kyoto
    We spent half a day…

    Jul 24, 2026
    J6711TVnancyb
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Family Fun Day in Kyoto with young children
    Kaeko Tanigawa was fantastic at helping us create…

    Jul 13, 2026
    elizabethtW414DU
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Private Tour
    Kaeko was absolutely amazing from start…

    Jul 12, 2026
    johnkE8649IH
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Kyoto Day Tour
    We had a wonderful experience touring Kyoto…

  • Tokyo: Ueno Park & Asakusa

    Tokyo: Ueno Park & Asakusa

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ Strings InterContinental
    • 9:30 Ueno Park (Hirokoji Exit ~ Kiyomizu Kannon ~ Toshogu Shrine)
    • 10:30 Tokyo National Museum
    • 12:30 Kappabashi Shopping Street
    • 13:00 Asakusa (Nakamise ~ Sensoji Temple / Golden Dragon Dance)
    • 15:10 Disperse @ Strings InterContinental

    Title: What Is a Two-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Ueno, Kappabashi, and Asakusa Today was the second day with the same guests. We strolled through Ueno Park in pleasantly comfortable weather. The Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms were only blooming a few flowers at a time, but the number of food stalls and the size of the trash bins prepared gave the guests a good sense of the lively crowds expected from this coming weekend. One of the guests enjoys history, so they took their time appreciating the exhibits, and we stayed longer than planned at the Tokyo National Museum. At Kappabashi, they found a knife they liked and purchased it. At the Nakamise shopping street in Asakusa, they were able to buy souvenirs for family, freeing them from the burden of gift shopping. Adjusting the schedule between the 17th and 18th to coincide with the Golden Dragon Dance at Sensoji Temple in March worked out well, and the guests appeared very satisfied. When the same guide handles a two-day multi-day tour, it is convenient and flexible for both the guests and the guide. This was the second time pairing up with today's driver, which made things go smoothly.

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

    Tour Report by Hideki

    Hello! My name is Hideki Maruyama. I was born in Osaka and raised in the Greater Tokyo area. I obtained my National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate in February 2016.
    I spent 23 years working at a leading Japanese automotive company, including 7 years posted overseas. I then worked for a German premium automotive manufacturer for 13 years, followed by 6 years as an advisor to a British energy company. Through these roles at global corporations, I developed and refined key skills such as:
    1. Cross-cultural communication
    2. A deep understanding of business elites and affluent customers
    3. The ability to deliver impactful and impressive presentations in English
    In addition to my regular duties, I often served as an interpreter for top executives during meetings with foreign government officials. I also had opportunities to introduce aspects of Japan—such as our national character and consumer preferences—to leadership teams in both the German and British companies.
    As a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding guests from a wide range of countries especially after the pandemic, including the US, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Ireland, Norway, Sweden, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

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    Jun 14, 2026
    tiffany_w
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Phenomenal experiance
    Hideki san was an amazing guide. He was incredibly knowledgable…

    Jun 13, 2026
    Joshua_A
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The Best Guide I Had in Japan
    Hideki was, without question, my…

    May 2, 2026
    Bruce G
    Our guide (Hideki san) was a master. It was a rainy day and he suggested a new plan in anticipation…

    Apr 30, 2026
    johnbD9596UO
    Lovely Private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I had a great…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Nanzen-ji Temple & Sannenzaka

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Nanzen-ji Temple & Sannenzaka

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00　Depart from hotel
    • 10:30　Nanzen-ji Temple
    • 12:00　Yasaka Koshindo・Yasaka Pagoda・Sannenzaka
    • 12:30　Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 13:40　Sannenzaka
    • 14:00　End at Sannenzaka

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nanzenji and Kiyomizudera I guided a group of guests visiting from Europe. They had informed me that they had already visited Fushimi Inari Taisha the previous day, so we changed the plan on short notice and went to Nanzenji Temple instead. There were relatively few tourists, and the guests were able to relax and enjoy the quiet atmosphere of the Sanmon gate, the Hojo Garden, and the Suirokaku aqueduct. Nanzenji in particular received high praise, and the change turned out to be a good decision. At Kiyomizudera, the guests appeared a little tired from the crowds, but they showed strong interest in the explanation of the Yasaka Pagoda and the earthquake-resistant structure of the Kiyomizu stage. At the end, they expressed their satisfaction with the tour. I have also been informed that a review was kindly written via chat, so I would appreciate it if this could be checked.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKawaramachi Sanjo／Kyoto City Bus～Nanzenji Eikando-michi／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2SubwayKeage～Higashiyama (Kyoto Prefecture)220JPY
    Section 3BusHigashiyama Sanjo (Subway Higashiyama Station)／Kyoto City Bus～Kiyomizu-michi／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total680JPY

    Tour Report by Umi

    Hello! My name is Umi. I was born and raised in Kyoto, and I still live here today.

    I have always loved traveling. When I visit another country, I enjoy learning about its history, culture, and way of life from local people. Talking with locals helps me understand a place much better than simply visiting famous sights. That’s why I became a tour guide.

    Through my tours, I hope to help visitors gain a deeper understanding of Japan. In addition to its beauty and traditions, I am also happy to talk about modern life in Japan. My goal is for my guests to leave Japan with wonderful memories and a deeper appreciation of the country.

    I’m looking forward to meeting you!

    Request Booking

    Jun 29, 2026
    U3009CHlaurad
    Kyoto 4 Hour walking Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Umi was a great tour guide, very…

    May 9, 2026
    Adventurer745194
    Lovely intro to Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a lovely morning guided by Umi.…

    Apr 30, 2026
    jonathangG3501FZ
    4 hour private tour in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Umi was a lovely tour guide…

    Apr 27, 2026
    Jennifer_S
    Wonderful, thoughtful guide
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Umi was absolutely wonderful. She…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum & Ikuta Shrine

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum & Ikuta Shrine

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet @ Kobe Port Naka Pier
    • 09:45 @ Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum
    • 11:15 @ Nishimura Coffee Shop
    • 12:30 @ Ikuta Shrine
    • 13:00 Disband @ Ikuta Shrine

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Kobe Walking Tour from a Cruise Ship? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private tour in Kobe for guests visiting from North America. One of the guests used a cane but moved around smoothly throughout the day. On the way, I took the group to "Hokodo," said to be the oldest coffee shop in Japan (opened in 1878), located in the Kobe Motomachi shopping arcade, and the guests were very interested. I also explained that Kobe is the place where the first Hollywood film in Japan was screened and where jazz was first performed in the country. At the "Hakutsuru Sake Museum," the guests were particularly interested and toured it enthusiastically, asking many questions. On the way back, we visited "Ikuta Shrine," where the guests also offered a prayer. However, since one of the guests seemed a little tired, they requested a break at the long-established local coffee house "Nishimura Coffee Shop," and afterward decided to return to their ship. As a result, we ran short of time and were unable to visit the "Kitano Ijinkan (Foreign Residences) area" and "Nankinmachi Chinatown" as originally planned, which was a little disappointing. I presented a handmade drawstring pouch made by my sister, which the guests were delighted to receive. Although in practice we only visited one main site, the guests toured the Hakutsuru Sake Museum with great interest, and were very satisfied with the wonderful coffee at "Nishimura Coffee Shop." In the end, the guests commented that it was "the most enjoyable tour ever," which I truly appreciated. Note) Today, a mix-up occurred regarding the meeting location. I had confirmed with the guests, both previously and on the day itself, that we would meet at "the 3rd-floor lobby of the Kobe Port Terminal," but in reality it was the "Naka Pier Terminal." Fortunately, these two locations are close to each other, and since I had arrived early to wait, I was able to take a taxi from the "Kobe Port Terminal" to the "Naka Pier Terminal" and managed to start the tour as originally scheduled. While there was some lack of confirmation and awareness on the guests' side, I deeply reflect that a major cause was also my own failure to confirm the name of the ship, and I will make sure to carry out thorough advance confirmation in the future.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMotomachi (Hyogo Prefecture)～Sumiyoshi (Hyogo Prefecture, Hanshin Line)200JPY
    Section 2TrainSumiyoshi (Hyogo Prefecture, Hanshin Line)～Sannomiya200JPY
    Total400JPY

    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

    Request Booking

    Sep 27, 2026
    Ross_W
    Fun with Hidden Gems
    Viator review: Osaka Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour, Licensed Guide
    Our guide Yama was so…

    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Great experience
    Yama was great, he showed us around and explained…

    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

  • Tokyo in One Day: 00 @ Tsukiji

    Tokyo in One Day: 00 @ Tsukiji

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.12:00 Meet up @ Hotel Tokyo
    • 2.12:30 @ Tsukiji Market
    • 3:13:00 @ Tsukiji
    • 4.14:10 @ Asakusa
    • 5.15:50 @ Meiji Shrine
    • 6.16:40 @ Takeshita Street
    • 7.17:10 @ Cat Street
    • 8.17:40 @ Shibuya Crossing
    • 9.18:00 Disband @ Shibuya

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya The guests were visitors from Europe. The tour was originally scheduled to start at 9:00, but due to a conflict in the Middle East, their flight was changed. They arrived on the morning of the 17th, so the tour began at 12:00 instead. Since they had already had lunch, at Tsukiji they enjoyed salmon nigiri at a stand-up sushi bar. They said it was very fresh. They walked around and looked at various shops, and seemed to want to come back on their own. In Asakusa, they purchased subway tickets and remarked how beautiful the buildings of Senso-ji were. They also found the forest of Meiji Shrine wonderful and took many photos. After that, on Takeshita Street, they enjoyed a different atmosphere with animal cafes and crepes. They were very fit and did not mind walking at all, so we strolled along Cat Street, experienced the Shibuya Crossing, and ended the tour in Shibuya. They were lovely guests who could enjoy anything.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShimbashi～Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 2TrainTsukiji～Asakusa290JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa～Meiji-jingumae260JPY
    Total730JPY

    Tour Report by FUMIKO

    Hello, I am Fumiko, an English-speaking Tourist Guide. I have been guiding foreign visitors science 2016. Please let me know your bucket lists whiles you are staying in Japan and what you are interested in. I will make the best plan for you. This is an once in a lifetime experience for you. As for myself, I love traveling, meeting people, eating local food, drinking, history, and art. I am learning Ikebana, traditional Japanese-style flower arrangement, and tea ceremony. I also love sports, especially tennis. I like children, so I can teach them some origami, folding paper. I am looking forward to hearing from you and seeing you in Japan.

    Request Booking

    Sep 29, 2026
    W9834MZdavidn
    First Visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    We had an absolutely wonderful day…

    Sep 12, 2026
    Don_G
    Tokyo 6 hour Tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    We had a great time on…

    Jul 27, 2026
    zyarisa
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko tour good vibes only
    Mrs. fumiko was very…

    Jul 23, 2026
    734mortenp
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Nice tour of Tokyo
    Don’t visit Tokyo without a guide! You’ll…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Naka Pier Terminal & Nankinmachi

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Naka Pier Terminal & Nankinmachi

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Naka Pier Terminal
    • 10:00-10:30 Kobe Earthquake Memorial Park
    • 10:45-11:45 Nunobiki Herb Garden
    • 12:05-12:40 Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum
    • 13:10-13:30 Ikuta Shrine
    • 13:45 Nankinmachi (Chinatown)
    • Tour ends

    What's a Private Day Tour of Kobe Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Herb Gardens, Sake Museums, and Nankinmachi The guests were visitors from Europe. After seeing the Earthquake Memorial Park, we took a taxi from the Hotel to Nunobiki Herb Garden. We rode the ropeway to the top, and although there were not many flowers in bloom, we walked back down. At Shin-Kobe Station we took a taxi to the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum (4,000 yen), where the guests asked interesting questions with great curiosity. We then took a taxi to Ikuta Shrine and walked to Nankinmachi, where the tour concluded as the guests planned to take a coffee break. Since it started to rain, I thought it was fortunate that we could walk from Ikuta Shrine through the covered arcade street and stay relatively dry.

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

    Tour Report by Harumi

    Hello, my name is Harumi, and I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter in Japan. I have been actively involved in volunteer activities for many years, sharing my passion for Japanese culture and history. As a kimono dressing instructor, I can provide hands-on kimono experiences and guide tours. Additionally, I have extensive knowledge of sumo wrestling, making my tours ideal for those interested in this fascinating sport. I am also well-versed in Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings (Jūdenken) and can introduce historical townscapes dating back to the Edo period. If you are interested, I would be happy to show you around the sake brewing process in the Nada region.

    Request Booking

    Sep 29, 2026
    H1282JBkarinas
    Customizable tour with Harumi-san
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing tour with Harumi…

    Sep 28, 2026
    Coastal07335209891
    Kobe Delight with Harumi
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our tour was definitely customized and our…

    Sep 27, 2026
    kakeelma
    Learning is fun with Harumi san!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    My husband and I…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Cosmopolitan580857
    We had a great time! Kyoto is a beautiful city.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo Bridge & Tamozawa Imperial Villa

    Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo Bridge & Tamozawa Imperial Villa

    Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00　　　　Meet the guests at Tobu Nikko Station
    • 09:10~09:20　Shinkyo Bridge sightseeing
    • 09:30~11:20　Toshogu Shrine sightseeing
    • 11:25~11:40　Futarasan Shrine sightseeing
    • 11:55~12:40　Lunch
    • 12:40~13:20　Hotel History Museum sightseeing
    • 13:25~14:30　Tamozawa Imperial Villa sightseeing
    • 15:00　　　 Disband at Tobu Nikko Station

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Nikko's World Heritage Sites Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guest was a visitor from North America. As the guest wished to see recommendations related to World Heritage sites and architecture, I guided them to the two shrines and one temple of Nikko, the Tamozawa Imperial Villa, and the Kanaya Hotel History Museum. The guest was very curious and listened attentively to my explanations about the World Heritage sites. Since the guest was interested in architecture-related sightseeing, I allocated a little extra time at the Tamozawa Imperial Villa and the Kanaya Hotel History Museum and gave an overview of Japanese architectural styles, which the guest seemed to greatly enjoy. I believe they were very satisfied with the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTobu Nikko Station～Shinkyo Bridge600JPY
    Section 2Free PassTamozawa Imperial Villa～Tobu Nikko Station0JPY
    Total600JPY

    Tour Report by Taka

    I am a licensed guide based in the Nikko area of Tochigi Prefecture, with a passion for sharing the depth and beauty of this remarkable region.
    In particular, I take great pride in introducing the magnificent World Heritage area, home to Toshogu Shrine, Futarasan Shrine, Rinnoji Temple, and the iconic Shinkyo Bridge. The rich history, spiritual atmosphere, and masterful craftsmanship found there are truly inspiring.
    But Nikko has much more to offer beyond the World Heritage zone. The region is uniquely spread across three different elevation zones: the central town area, the Lake Chuzenji area at higher altitude, and the remote Yumoto Onsen area in the mountains. Each of these areas offers a different charm—from historic sites and sacred spaces to scenic lakes, waterfalls, and hot springs.
    However, due to the area’s wide geography, limited public transit options, and seasonal congestion, even navigating efficiently within a single area can be challenging without local knowledge.
    That’s why local expertise is essential. With in-depth knowledge of Nikko’s layout, transportation network, and crowd patterns, I help my guests make the most of their time, while focusing on the area that suits their interests best.
    I don’t just recite what’s written in guidebooks—I offer deeper insights rooted in Japanese history, religion, and culture. From the legacy of Tokugawa Ieyasu to the spiritual symbolism behind shrine architecture, I aim to provide meaningful and memorable experiences.
    If you’re looking to discover the real Nikko, from its iconic landmarks to hidden gems, I’d be honored to guide you.

    Request Booking

    Sep 5, 2026
    Adventure06097262461
    Wonderful day in Nikko
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This tour was a truly…

    Aug 30, 2026
    inbyten
    A perfect day in Nikko with Taka
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Taka crafted…

    Jul 27, 2026
    Onno_P2000
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Very interesting and joyful day trip with Taka
    We…

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    Viator review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A fantastic day!
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  • Osaka in Half a Day: Citadines Namba Osaka & Shitennoji Temple

    Osaka in Half a Day: Citadines Namba Osaka & Shitennoji Temple

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00@ Citadines Namba Osaka
    • 11:05-11:20@Kuromon Market
    • 11:40-12:10@Shinsekai
    • 12:25-12:45@Harukas Garden
    • 13:05-14:00@Shitennoji Temple
    • 14:30-15:00@Dotonbori, Hozenji Temple
    • 15:00 Dismissal@Hozenji Temple

    What Can You See on a Private Osaka Walking Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who had traveled through other destinations in Asia and Japan before arriving in Osaka the day before the tour. Since they had already visited Osaka Castle the previous day, the itinerary was changed from Osaka Castle to Kuromon Market and Shinsekai. They were bright and easygoing, laughing off even a wrong train transfer during the trip and saying it was "no problem at all," which kept the conversation lively. At Shitennoji Temple, they meditated for a while in the incense-scented grounds and seemed to be deeply moved by the experience. Along the way they also tried 551 pork buns and takoyaki, and although our time together was short, they were delighted that it became a wonderful memory of their trip.

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    Tour Report by Sachiko

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in One Day: Whole family gathers & Tsukiji subway station

    Tokyo in One Day: Whole family gathers & Tsukiji subway station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00　Meet with father and discuss the schedule
    • 11:15　Whole family gathers
    • 11:25　Take the hotel shuttle bus to Shinjuku Station
    • 11:40　Arrive at Harajuku Station　Visit Meiji Shrine
    • 13:00　Visit Takeshita Street
    • 13:40　Depart from Meiji-jingumae subway station
    • 14:00　Arrive at Nijubashimae subway station　Visit the Imperial Palace Nijubashi
    • 14:30　Depart from Sakuradamon subway station
    • 15:00　Arrive at Tsukiji Outer Market via Shintomicho subway　Visit the market (including a visit to Tsukiji Hongan-ji along the way)
    • 16:00　Depart from Tsukiji subway station
    • 16:30　Arrive at Asakusa subway station　Visit Nakamise from Kaminarimon
    • 17:00　Disband at Nakamise

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report on Harajuku, the Imperial Palace, Tsukiji, and Asakusa [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private one-day tour of Tokyo for a group visiting Japan from North America. The guests had a strong interest in Japanese culture and religious architecture. The first stop was Harajuku, where the group visited Meiji Shrine and Takeshita Street. They were very intrigued by the contrast between the solemn atmosphere of Meiji Shrine and the lively, youthful energy of Takeshita Street, and stayed for about two hours. Next, we traveled by subway to the Imperial Palace and Nijubashi Bridge, where we took commemorative photos. We then took the subway from Sakuradamon Station to Shintomicho Station and walked toward the Tsukiji Outer Market area. Along the way, we visited Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, which features an Indian-style exterior. The guests found it especially interesting, observing the similarities with Indian temple architecture. After that, we had a somewhat late lunch at the Tsukiji Outer Market, where the guests enjoyed Japanese dishes such as sashimi and sushi and were very pleased. We then transferred by subway to Asakusa. I guided the group from Kaminarimon Gate through Nakamise Street, allowing them to experience Japan's traditional atmosphere. As about six hours had passed since the start of the tour, we concluded the tour in Asakusa. The guests had a dinner reservation at 6:30 p.m. and planned to make their own way there by taxi afterward. Although the guests had only recently arrived in Japan, the entire group showed a strong interest in sightseeing and appeared satisfied throughout the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Harajuku160JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae Station／Shibuya-ku, Tokyo～Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 3SubwaySakuradamon～Shintomicho (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji～Asakusa210JPY
    Total760JPY

    Tour Report by Toshi

    Self-Background

    During my university years, I lived in a dormitory for four years and had the opportunity to live with many international students.
    Of course, we spoke English.
    After graduating from university, I started working as an English teacher at a junior high school.
    I was able to have a fun teaching life while interacting with many students. During that time, I continued to study English on my own and obtained the pre-1st grade English proficiency test.
    After that, I worked for the Board of Education as a supervisor in charge of English education, and then managed a school as a vice principal, and later principal.
    After retiring from teaching, I took the TOEIC (L&R) and achieved my highest score of 945.
    I also obtained a license as a national guide-interpreter, and began working as a guide for overseas visitors in English.
    Currently, I guide tourists to several places around the country.
    Many customers have told me that I am a good guide, saying that my guidance is easy to understand and that I have a lot of knowledge about sightseeing spots and history.
    Furthermore, I will continue to improve my skills and make efforts to give you a better experience in Japan, so please come and enjoy your trip in Japan with me.

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