Category: Uncategorized

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Haneda Airport

    Kanagawa in One Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Haneda Airport

    Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama by Car with Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet at Yokohama Osanbashi Pier
    • 10:00 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 11:00 Imperial Palace / Nijubashi Bridge
    • 12:00 Shibuya
    • 14:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:30 Asakusa / Sensoji Temple
    • 17:00 Haneda Airport

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Day Tour Before a Flight from Haneda? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania who had just completed a cruise around Japan. This was a Tokyo tour before their evening flight home. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guides lead private one-day tours of Tokyo like this one for international travelers. First I took them to the Tsukiji Outer Market, and they seemed amazed by the scale of the fresh fish market, which they said was on a level they had never seen before. Although they had visited fish markets in several places around the world, they commented that this was incomparable to the others, not only in size but also in its unique atmosphere. At the Imperial Palace, we first drove around the grounds so they could appreciate the scale, and then I took them to the Nijubashi Bridge, where I explained the history and current situation of the Japanese Imperial Family as well as future challenges. They were delighted to learn for the first time about a background completely different from the image of the Imperial Family they had previously held. In Shibuya, after seeing the Scramble Crossing and having lunch, we headed to Meiji Shrine. They seemed to feel the unique atmosphere of Shinto and were very moved, and they purchased several amulets. The guests appeared to be experienced international travelers, and since Tokyo was their final port of call after visiting ports all around Japan, I focused especially on showing them the city as a kind of "summary" of the cultural differences between Japan and other countries. Finally, I saw them off at Haneda Airport, where the tour concluded.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama by Car with Licensed Guide

    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

    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…

    May 27, 2026
    jackie m
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Our guide was really interesting and had…

    Apr 9, 2026
    Lindsey_W
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Atsushi, was…
    Our guide, Atsushi, was great! He met…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Nanzenji Area

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Nanzenji Area

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 vermilion cafe meet
    • 9:05 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 10:30 Nijo Castle
    • 12:00 Gion Area
    • 13:25 Nanzenji Area
    • 15:00 Tour ends at Shijo Subway Station

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like in Autumn? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided the guests who were visiting Japan. The guests had been joining guided tours in various places to learn about Japanese history. Although it rained today, the autumn foliage was at its peak and the guests enjoyed it. After visiting three locations, I asked whether they would like to have lunch or go to Nanzen-ji Temple, and since they were happy to skip lunch and wanted to see the Suirokaku aqueduct, I guided them there. The guests were overwhelmed by the Sanmon gate and the autumn foliage at Nanzen-ji Temple. They were also deeply impressed by the Suirokaku aqueduct. We walked together to Shijo Station near the station closest to their hotel, and the tour concluded there.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainInari～Nijojo-mae410JPY
    Section 2BusNijojo-mae／Kyoto City Bus～Gion-Shijo230JPY
    Section 3SubwaySanjo (Kyoto)～Keage220JPY
    Section 4SubwayKeage～Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)260JPY
    Total1,120JPY

    Tour Report by Mizu

    Hello, my name is Mizuho Yoshikawa. Please call me Mizu and my name means rice and water in Japanese.
    I’ve been a tour guide more than 200 times since the spring of 2023 in Kobe, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Wakayama and Kochi. My tour is always original and new, depending on the guest’s preferences, encounters, seasons and weather.
    In Kyoto, one of my tours is to climb Mt. Kurama. It is about 1 hour from the city of Kyoto by train, it is a very quiet and beautiful mountain.
    In Osaka, which is called the kitchen of Japan, I am also in charge of food tour.
    In Nara, in addition to the Great Budda Hall, I guide guests to the temple with a really great view and Japanese wine, sake tasting.
    Every city has a unique charming point.
    The motto of my guiding is ” Ichigo Ichie” Once in a lifetime or seize the day. I learn this concept that the moment will never be the same again through tea ceremonies.
    I like a tea ceremony that is part of the traditional Japanese culture and embodies the spirit of “omotenashi” or hospitality. Through the tea ceremony, we can feel the spirit of “omotenashi” that has been passed down to us from ancient times.
    And I like to travel abroad and domestically, and I have been to 13 overseas countries and most of the prefectures in Japan. Traveling always gives me a new perspective, which is exciting and thrilling. Nowadays, we can learn a lot from the Internet, but traveling teaches us that it is important to have direct experience. When I travel, I feel that my five senses are infinitely expanded, and through my tour, I help all guests to have the same feeling in Japan.
    I was born and raised in Kanagawa Prefecture, which is next to Tokyo Prefecture in eastern Japan. When I was little, I could see Mount Fuji from my backyard. There was also a rice field nearby, and I grew up listening to the croaking of frogs. Listening to the frogs and seeing the mountains made me feel very calm.
    I moved to the city of Kobe, one of the Kansai areas in western Japan, which includes Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and so on. I’m not from the Kansai area of western Japan, but I think that makes me sensitive to the differences between that area and the Kanto area, Tokyo, where I grew up.
    Speaking of Kobe, you might be thinking of Kobe beef. Of course you do. There are also other sake breweries in Nada in Kobe. You can also go from Kobe city to Himeji Castle, also known as the White Egret Castle, which was the first in Japan to be listed as a World Heritage Site in 1993.
    Let’s meet and enjoy Japan together!

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    Jul 27, 2026
    OscarBrisenoJr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Awesome tour of Kyoto
    Seeing the temples and shrines…

    Jul 21, 2026
    MarcL3556
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful and Memorable Tour of Osaka with Mizu…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Ranvt
    Local tour kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    I had a great experience on this local…

    Jun 11, 2026
    MamaL843
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing Kyoto with Mizu
    Mizu-San gave us an AMAZING tour of Kyoto.…

  • Kyoto: Nijo Castle & Kyoto Imperial Palace Gardens

    Kyoto: Nijo Castle & Kyoto Imperial Palace Gardens

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Gather at Hotel Kyoto Umekoji
    • 09:30 to 10:30 Nijo Castle
    • 11:10 to 12:00 Sagano Bamboo Grove
    • 13:00 to 13:50 Ginkaku-ji Temple
    • 14:10 to 14:40 Kyoto Imperial Palace Gardens
    • 15:00 Disband at Hotel Kyoto Umekoji

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. I guided them to the popular spots mentioned above, but I had originally planned to show them the Kyoto Imperial Palace rather than the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden. The Kyoto Imperial Palace is normally closed on Mondays, but because the previous day had been a substitute public holiday, it was closed today instead. Through my own carelessness, I did not realize this and brought them there, only to discover on site that it was closed—a genuine mistake on my part. I offered the guests a sincere apology and instead guided them through the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden. I feel truly sorry toward the guests.

    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…

  • Osaka: JR Nara bus 250y each & JR Namba

    Osaka: JR Nara bus 250y each & JR Namba

    Nara Day Trip from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:40 Pick up at JR Namba station.
    • 9:30 JR Nara bus 250y each
    • 10:00-20 Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Deer Park
    • 10:30　Todaiji Nandaimon Gate
    • 10:40-11:10 Great Buddha Hall
    • 11:20　Bell Tower
    • 11:30-12:00 Lunch at Emado Chaya
    • 12:10 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill:
    • former katana sword manufacturer's etc.
    • 12:20-40 Kasuga-taisha Shrine on foot
    • 13:10 Kofukuji Temple　on foot
    • 14:00 JR Nara Station
    • 15:00 JR Namba (End of Guided Tour)

    What Is a Private Nara Day Tour Like in the Rain? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America and Asia. My prior communication with the group's representative had been quite brief, which had made me a little concerned, and it turned out that the guests were not especially interested in temples and shrines, Buddhism or Shinto, or the history of Nara and Japan. In such cases I usually try to have the guests spend as much time as possible playing with the deer, but unfortunately it was raining and bitterly cold. On top of that, one of the guests had difficulty with their legs and found both going up and down stairs painful. At the guests' request, we only took a quick look at each spot and skipped places with stairs as much as possible. Following the guests' wish to "finish early because we're cold and tired from the rain," we ended the tour much earlier than planned.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainJR Namba～Nara580JPY
    Section 2BusJR Nara Station / Nara Kotsu～Todaiji Daibutsuden / Kasuga Taisha-mae / Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Section 3BusKencho-mae / Nara Kotsu～JR Nara Station / Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Section 4TrainNara～JR Namba580JPY
    Total1,660JPY

    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.

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Tokyo: Tsukiji Market

    Tokyo: Tsukiji Market

    Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 5:00 Meet at Market Station
    • 　　Tuna auction, Toyosu wholesale market
    • 7:10 Tsukiji Market
    • 8:00 Disband at Mitsumoto Cafe

    Title: What Is a Private Toyosu Fish Market Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, and this was their second time in Japan. They were very fond of Japan. Their accommodation was a private lodging in the Iriya area. When I did a preliminary site check, the street address turned out to be incorrect and I could not find the place, so at the guests' suggestion we set the meeting point in front of the market station. The guests loved Japan and were very friendly, so the tour proceeded in a warm and cheerful atmosphere. They were very satisfied to be able to see the tuna auction at Toyosu, which had been the main highlight they were hoping for. They asked me to recommend spots they had not yet visited and had not included in their current plans, so I gave them a list including Yanaka Ginza, the Asakura Museum of Sculpture, Rikugien Garden, Zojoji Temple, and the Tokyo National Museum. They were very pleased with it.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusToyosu Station Front / Toei Bus～Tsukiji / Toei Bus210JPY
    Total210JPY

    Tour Report by Kris

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    See you in Japan!

    Kris

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in One Day: Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple & Nanzen-ji Temple

    Kyoto in One Day: Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple & Nanzen-ji Temple

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:15 Meet in front of Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple (guest will be late due to bus)
    • 9:18 Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • 10:00 Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • 11:25 Lunch at a ramen shop near Nijo Castle
    • 12:20 Nijo Castle
    • 14:00 Nanzen-ji Temple
    • 15:00 Tour ends

    Title: What's a Rainy-Day Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, Nijo Castle, and Nanzen-ji The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. The tour was scheduled to start at 8:00, but the guests suggested meeting at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, so we adjusted the start to 9:00 to match the temple's opening. The guests arrived a little late, and we started the tour in unfortunate rain. Otagi Nenbutsu-ji is becoming increasingly popular, and many international visitors were lined up even before the gate opened. Next, we went to Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, though the rain made the footing a concern throughout the tour. For lunch, we stopped at a ramen shop near Nijo Castle, and fortunately the guests were able to get seats. A long line formed outside the shop shortly afterward. They seemed to enjoy the flavor of the ramen, which was a relief. After visiting the Ninomaru Palace at Nijo Castle, the rain stopped and walking became easier. At Nanzen-ji, the sky even cleared and the autumn foliage was magnificent, so the guests took many photos. Since the rain had continued, we discussed and took a taxi from Adashino Nenbutsu-ji to JR Saga-Arashiyama Station. The photo was taken in the garden of the Ninomaru Palace at Nijo Castle.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSaga-Arashiyama～Nijo200JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijo～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijojo-mae～Keage260JPY
    Total680JPY

    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

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ Hotel Kyoto
    • 9:30-10:15 @ Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 11:00-12:30 @ Arashiyama Area
    • 13:15-13:55 @ Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 14:00 Dismissal @ 7-Eleven Kinkaku-ji Store

    What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like on a Rainy Autumn Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America and were on about their fourth day in Japan. They had entered the country via Tokyo and were traveling mainly around Tokyo and Kyoto during a holiday period, focusing their trip on just these two cities. Since a light rain was falling from the start, I encouraged the guests to borrow umbrellas from their hotel before we set off. At Fushimi Inari Taisha, there were many tourists with umbrellas, and the line through the torii gates often came to a standstill. There was no line at the Omokaru-ishi (weight-testing stone), so both guests gave it a try. It was still raining when we arrived in Arashiyama, but the autumn foliage of Arashiyama, partly veiled in clouds here and there, had a charm and beauty different from usual, and the guests were delighted. In Arashiyama, we strolled around the Togetsukyo Bridge, the Kimono Forest, Tenryu-ji Temple, and the bamboo grove. By the time we reached Kinkaku-ji, the rain had almost stopped, and the golden pavilion reflected beautifully on the Kyoko-chi pond. Throughout the tour, the autumn foliage was beautiful at every site. Because the guests walked quite fast and were not the type to spend much time at each spot, about one hour of tour time remained by the time we finished at Kinkaku-ji. When I asked whether there was anywhere else they would like to go next, they said there was nowhere in particular. Instead, as they had become hungry, they asked me to recommend a place serving tantanmen, so I guided them to a shop near Kinkaku-ji. Finding that the shop accepted cash only and that they had little cash on hand, they asked me to show them somewhere with an ATM, so I took them to a nearby convenience store, and we parted ways there.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKarasuma Oike～Kyoto220JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 3TrainInari～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 4TrainSaga-Arashiyama～Enmachi180JPY
    Section 5BusNishinokyo-Enmachi (JR Enmachi Station) / Kyoto City Bus～Kinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total1,020JPY

    Tour Report by Kaz

    Hi, thank you very much for choosing the JGA tour!

    My name is Kazuhiro Yoshida, please call me “Kaz”.

    I am an English-speaking National Licensed Tour Guide in Japan, and have been guiding mainly in Kyoto and other Kansai areas since April 2023. I have guided over 1,000 tours in total so far, and I am on my way to becoming one of the best English-speaking tour guides in Japan.

    I have a great passion to show people from all over the world, the deep histories and cultures of Japan, the country I truly love.
    I am focused to take you out on a tour that will become one of the best highlights of your entire trip.

    I am glad to have an opportunity to be your guide, and I hope that we can explore many hidden gems of Japan together!

    Request Booking

    May 19, 2026
    498stephenq
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    An enjoyable visit
    Really enjoyed our visit with Kaz. Friendly, informative, and…

    Apr 11, 2026
    V5131MFjodieh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kyoto morning tour with Kaz
    Kaz (Kazuhiro) guided my family in historic…

    Oct 14, 2025
    Scenic61154406959
    Great Historical Perspective
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoshida was excellent, he had a great knowledge of…

    Sep 29, 2025
    Jea L
    Excellent Tour of Kyoto with Kaz
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kaz was an excellent tour…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Arashiyama & Fushimi Inari

    Kyoto in One Day: Arashiyama & Fushimi Inari

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Hotel Kyoto station meet-up
    • 9:20 Arashiyama
    • 11:00 Nijo Castle
    • 12:30 Nishiki Market
    • 13:40 Fushimi Inari
    • 14:30 Disband at Fushimi Inari

    What Is a 6-Hour Private Walking Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. There had been some concern beforehand about whether the full 6-hour walking tour could be completed, and while touring Nijo Castle, some of the guests began to tire, so after leaving the Ninomaru Palace we skipped the garden stroll and headed to Nishiki Market. As soon as they saw the food, they regained their energy, and after enjoying street food at three shops, we proceeded to Fushimi Inari Shrine as planned. We took two short breaks along the way and completed the planned itinerary. One of the guests was interested in the history of Kyoto and asked many questions. Everyone did very well with all the walking. From Fushimi Inari, the guests caught a taxi and returned to their Hotel.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto～Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)220JPY
    Section 2TrainKarasuma～Arashiyama (Hankyu Line)240JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)～Uzumasa-Tenjingawa230JPY
    Section 4SubwayUzumasa-Tenjingawa～Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 5TrainNijojo-mae～Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)220JPY
    Section 6TrainGion-Shijo～Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Total1,410JPY

    Tour Report by Naoki

    I am Naoki Nakatani. I live in Osaka.
    I started tour guide from 2023 after 40 years
    work experience in Japanese manufacturing company. I am currently teaching Japanese as volunteer staff to foreign residents who live in my community. I have 11 and half years work experience in overseas office and I had interacted with people of foreign countries for a long time enjoying business and friendship with them. My guide experience is still short but I will provide my best service to the guests. I am in a position to prepare the itinerary if guests request and to send any information for the guest to make plan before visit to Japan.

    Request Booking

    Jul 11, 2026
    Trevor_F
    Viator review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    4 hour Private Tour
    Naomi was our guide and did a…

    Jun 6, 2026
    May_O
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful time in Kyoto
    We had a terrific time with Naoki. He…

    May 1, 2026
    Sanfrancisco820
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Choose Naoki – you will have a great day!!
    Naoki is an…

    Mar 28, 2026
    Tanya_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great guide
    Naoki was very kind and knowledgeable He knew the best…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.13:00 Meet up @AC Marriott
    • 2.13:30 @Asakusa
    • 3.15:30 @Meiji Jingumae
    • 4.16:20 @Takeshita Street
    • 5.17:00 Disperse @Harajuku

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour of Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, and Takeshita Street Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Part of the group had just arrived the day before, so I explained things such as how to use the subway. In Asakusa, they enjoyed eating ningyo-yaki along Nakamise and drawing omikuji fortunes. Some of the guests were interested in topics such as Buddhism and Shinto. Afterward, we visited Meiji Shrine, where we were able to see people celebrating Shichi-Go-San and first shrine visits. We then went to Takeshita Street. Some of the guests bought traditional sweets at Daiso and skincare products at Matsukiyo, while others enjoyed snacks and looked at mini pigs. Some of the guests had apparently been in this area the day before as well and did not particularly enjoy crowded places, so they seemed quite tired. After leaving Takeshita Street, I guided them to a vintage shop that some of the guests had wanted to visit, and since they planned to continue enjoying the day on their own, we ended the tour there. It was a wonderful day with very nice weather.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHigashi-Ginza～Asakusa220JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa～Meiji Jingumae260JPY
    Total480JPY

    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

    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…

    Jul 10, 2026
    Jessica_A
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko was wonderful. …
    Fumiko was wonderful. You can…

    Jun 28, 2026
    alistairn2016
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fumiko is a great tour guide – informative, friendly and very well…

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Owakudani & Hakone Tozan Railway

    Kanagawa in One Day: Owakudani & Hakone Tozan Railway

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel
    • 10:00 Arrive at Lake Ashi, stroll through Onshi Hakone Park
    • 10:40 Board pirate ship (Hakonemachi Port – Motohakone Port), board pirate ship (Motohakone Port – Togendai)
    • 11:30 Ride Hakone Ropeway (Togendai Station – Owakudani Station)
    • 11:50 Stroll around Owakudani
    • 12:40 Ride Hakone Ropeway (Owakudani Station – Sounzan Station)
    • 12:50 Hakone Tozan Cable Car (Sounzan Station – Gora Station)
    • 13:10 Hakone Tozan Railway (Gora Station – Chokoku-no-Mori Station)
    • 　　　Visit The Hakone Open-Air Museum, lunch
    • 15:00 Disband at Gora Station

    Can You Do a Private Day Trip to Hakone from Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a visitor from North America, traveling in Japan. The guest was on a three-day trip to see the sights of Hakone. Under clear skies, the views of Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi were excellent, and the guest seemed very satisfied. Since the guest had a Hakone Free Pass, I suggested routes covered by the pass as much as possible. Our loop route ran Gora – Lake Ashi (Hakonemachi Port – Moto-Hakone Port – Togendai – Owakudani – Sounzan – Hakone Open-Air Museum). Departing the hotel at 9:00, we managed to stay a step ahead of the crowds. The view of Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji from Onshi Hakone Park was wonderful. On the pirate ship, we were able to relax and enjoy the scenery from the deck seats. At Owakudani, the guest was very interested in the black eggs. At this point, the guest mentioned it would be better to head from Sounzan to Gora, so we moved to Gora. We then visited the Hakone Open-Air Museum, where the guest took time to look at Tetsuya Noguchi's "A Dream Seen Wearing Armor." We had lunch at the restaurant inside the museum, where the curry rice was well received. The guest said, "I'm staying in Hakone for two more days. It was great to learn about the sightseeing spots."

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusMiyaginobashi / Hakone Tozan Bus～In front of hotel / Hakone Tozan Bus260JPY
    Section 2BusIn front of hotel / Hakone Tozan Bus～Hakonemachi Port / Hakone Tozan Bus930JPY
    Section 3OtherHakonemachi Port～Motohakone Port600JPY
    Section 4OtherTogendai～Sounzan2,000JPY
    Section 5TrainSounzan～Gora Station / Hakone Tozan Bus430JPY
    Section 6TrainGora Station / Hakone Tozan Bus～Chokoku-no-Mori Station / Hakone Tozan Bus160JPY
    Total4,380JPY

    Tour Report by Naoki

    English / Guide in English and German / Guiding areas are in Tokyo, Yokohama and my home town Okayama. (Since I’m based in Tokyo, I might not be able to guide in Okayama, depending on the timing.) My profile in German follows!
    First of all, thank you very much for your taking time to have a look at my profile. My name is Naoki Shimono. Naoki would be fine. I’m a certified tour guide in English and German. After long years of work at Japanese electronics manufacturer, always in charge of international marketing, I’m focusing on tour guide and interpreter. As of now, I did tour guide more than 50 times in English and more than 50 times in German. Not only in Tokyo but also other cities, such as Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Hakodate, Niigata, Shimizu, Fukuoka, Kagoshima, Naha etc. It is always a big pleasure for me to show around Japan to guests from abroad. I’m looking forward to seeing you in Japan!

    Deutsch / Reiseleiter auf Deutsch und Englisch / In Tokio und Yokohama sowie in meiner Heimatstadt Okayama. (Da ich in Tokio ansässig bin, kann ich je nach Zeitpunkt möglicherweise nicht in Okayama als Reiseleiter tätig sein.)
    Zunächst einmal vielen Dank, dass Sie sich die Zeit genommen haben, mein Profil anzusehen. Mein Name ist Naoki Shimono. Naoki wäre schön. Ich bin zertifizierter Reiseleiter in Englisch und Deutsch. Nach langjähriger Tätigkeit bei einem japanischen Elektronikhersteller, wo ich stets für das internationale Marketing verantwortlich war, konzentriere ich mich nun auf die Reiseleitung und Dolmetschertätigkeit. Bisher habe ich über 50 Mal auf Englisch und über 50 Mal auf Deutsch als Reiseleiter gearbeitet. Nicht nur in Tokio, sondern auch in anderen Städten wie Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Hakodate, Niigata, Shimizu, Fukuoka, Kagoshima, Naha usw. Es ist mir immer eine große Freude, Gästen aus dem Ausland Japan zu zeigen. Ich freue mich darauf, Sie in Japan zu sehen!

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    Oct 16, 2025
    Songqi_L
    Highly recommend!
    Viator review: Okayama Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Naoki san is a great guide. He’s very friendly, adaptive,…

    Oct 11, 2025
    Gizelle K
    Wonderful Experience
    Tripadvisor review: Okayama Half-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    A very organise tour, from the prompt pick up…