Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 09:00 Tour starts from the hotel
    • Transfer by train & bus to Ninna-ji Temple
    • AM 10:00 -10:50 Visit Ninna-ji Temple
    • Transfer by bus to Ryoan-ji Temple
    • AM 11:10-PM 11:50 Visit Ryoan-ji Temple
    • Transfer by bus to Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • PM 12:10-12:50 Visit Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • Transfer by bus to Kyoto Imperial Palace Light meal on the way
    • PM 14:30 -15:20 Visit the Imperial Palace
    • Transfer by subway to Nijo Castle
    • PM 15:40-16:40 Visit Nijo Castle
    • Transfer by subway & train PM 17:00 Tour ends at Gion-Shijo Station

    What Is an 8-Hour Private Historical Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. During the pre-tour discussion, they requested an 8-hour tour visiting as many historical sites as possible. I had been a little concerned that this might be somewhat difficult, but everyone was very well behaved, joined the tour without any complaints, and enjoyed themselves. It rained heavily on the day of the tour, but I was glad that we were able to cover the entire planned course as scheduled. According to the weather forecast, a typhoon was expected to approach, so the guests asked for advice about places to visit during their stay in Kyoto, and after providing guidance the tour came to an end.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKiyomizu-Gojo～Sanjo (Kyoto)180JPY
    Section 2BusSanjo Keihan-mae／Kyoto City Bus～Omuro Ninna-ji／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3BusOmuro Ninna-ji／Kyoto City Bus～Ryoan-ji-mae／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4BusRyoan-ji-mae／Kyoto City Bus～Kinkaku-ji-michi／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 5BusKinkaku-ji-michi／Kyoto City Bus～Karasuma Imadegawa (Imadegawa Subway Station)／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 6SubwayImadegawa～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 7SubwayNijojo-mae～Sanjo Keihan220JPY
    Section 8TrainSanjo (Kyoto)～Gion-Shijo180JPY
    Total1,720JPY

    Tour Report by YOSHI

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: @ Egret Himeji Rooftop & @ Nadagiku Sake Brewery

    Hyogo in Half a Day: @ Egret Himeji Rooftop & @ Nadagiku Sake Brewery

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • Meet at 13:00 @ JR Himeji Station
    • 13:15 @ Egret Himeji Rooftop
    • 13:30 @ Himeji Castle
    • 15:30 @ Kokoen Garden
    • 16:15 @ Nadagiku Sake Brewery
    • Disband at 17:00 @ JR Himeji Station

    What Is a Rainy-Day Private Tour of Himeji Castle and a Sake Brewery Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, and the day's travel went very smoothly. Although it happened to be rainy, each spot was therefore less crowded, allowing for a relaxed and unhurried visit. The guests seemed to have a strong interest in Japan, listening attentively to the guide's explanations at each spot and asking quite in-depth questions. At Himeji Castle, they enthusiastically browsed for souvenirs at the gift shop. At Nadagiku Sake Brewery, which the guests had been especially looking forward to, they enjoyed a tasting and purchased sake and yuzu liqueur as souvenirs. The guests are very fond of Japanese sake, and mentioned that they would love to visit a sake brewery in Kobe recommended by the guide on their next trip. I presented a handmade drawstring pouch made by my sister, which the guests were very pleased to receive.

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

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    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…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Diane_B
    Viator review: Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Yama was amazing!!
    Our tour guide…

    Jul 4, 2026
    Navigator661725
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful time!
    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…

  • Osaka in One Day: Hilton Osaka & Kyoto Station

    Osaka in One Day: Hilton Osaka & Kyoto Station

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Hilton Osaka
    • Osaka Sta. →　SagaArashiyama Sta. by JR train
    • 10:30 Gioji (500) by taxi
    • 11:00 Nison-in (600) by walking
    • 11:40 Bamboo Path by walking
    • 12:30 Nishiki Market for lunch by taxi cash is necessary
    • 　　Lunch（Otowa Sushi）
    • 　　Pig House
    • koe dounut
    • 15:20 Ippodo by walking
    • 16:20 Fushimiinari by taxi
    • 17:00 Kyoto Station
    • End of the tour

    What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour from Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America. After meeting them in Osaka, we began the Kyoto tour at Giouji Temple in Sagano. It rained all day, but the green of the rain-soaked moss garden was very beautiful. Nisonin Temple was also relatively uncrowded. Despite the rain, a large number of tourists had flocked to the bamboo grove. We went to Nishiki Market intending to have lunch, but after the guests had only some fried chicken and a fried sweet potato slice snack, they said they wanted a proper lunch, so we went to a sushi restaurant that was not crowded with tourists. After that, the guests went to a pig cafe across the street, and when they came out, they said that after coffee they had to have dessert, so they went to Koe Donuts. As time was getting tight, I thought about skipping Ippodo to go to Kiyomizu-dera, but instead we skipped Kiyomizu-dera and went to Ippodo. They drank both koicha and usucha and were very pleased. Finally, we passed through the Senbon Torii at Fushimi Inari, came out at Kyoto Station, and I guided the guests to the special rapid train bound for Osaka, ending the tour.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOsaka～Saga-Arashiyama960JPY
    Section 2TrainInari～Kyoto150JPY
    Total1,110JPY

    Tour Report by Kazz

    I’m Ryoichi Kazuma and my nickname is “Kazz”. I live in Kyotanabe city next to Kyoto city. I want guests to enjoy Kyoto by seeing and experiencing not only from outside but also from inside. I offer various information from daily matters to traditional cultures. Most destinations in Kyoto are located on the eastern side or the western side. As I want to guide guests to as many destinations as possible, I make an efficient itinerary and recommend a taxi use to save time. Additionally, I take pictures at various spots and finally share the link to my storage. By doing so, guests can download their favorite pictures from my storage. Please enjoy Kyoto night and day!

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    Jul 14, 2026
    T6871WWricharde
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kazz gave a great one on one 8 hour custom tour…

    Jun 5, 2026
    mateoe216
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Would book again
    The tour with Kazuma-san was absolutely great. As someone…

    May 27, 2026
    Leah_D
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely recommend!
    I definitely recommend seeing some of the sights with a…

    May 26, 2026
    sheilacL3330KS
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very enthusiastic and knowledgable guide. Much appreciated
    Kazz was an excellent guide…

  • Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hotel → Take the bus to Hiroshima Station, retrieve the iPad at the lost and found center
    • 11:00 Depart from Hiroshima Station Shinkansen Exit on the Orange Route to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
    • 11:50 Leave the museum, explain the Cenotaph → Flame of Peace → Peace Axis, then Rest House → Children's Peace Monument → Peace Bell → Peace Clock Tower → Aioi Bridge → Atomic Bomb Dome → Hiroshima Castle Ninomaru → Castle Keep
    • 15:30 Tour ends, the guests headed to Miyajimaguchi via the Hotel (to pick up the luggage left at the front desk) by a taxi that had been reserved in advance.

    What Is a Private Hiroshima Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The day before the tour, the guests contacted me to say they had left an iPad on the Shinkansen. We tried various things, but the lost and found center was already closed, so it could not be retrieved that day. After discussing with the guests, we changed the 9:00 start time to a 10:00 meeting at the Hotel front desk, timed so that we could contact the lost and found center. We started the tour from Hiroshima Station. The iPad was successfully recovered, and the guests were very pleased. Since they seemed tired from the iPad situation, I arranged some time to sit and relax at a rest house. The guests looked at the museum very carefully, so I introduced John Hersey's "HIROSHIMA," and to a member of the group who was familiar with kendama, I shared some history about kendama. One of the guests, who enjoys coffee, asked, "Is there good coffee in Hiroshima?" so I recommended Itsuki Coffee on Miyajima, which they were planning to visit after the tour. They went the next day, seemed very satisfied, and sent me some photos.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusTanakamachi / Hiroshima Electric Railway Bus～Hiroshima Station / Hiroshima Electric Railway Bus240JPY
    Section 2BusHiroshima Station / JR Bus Chugoku～Peace Park (Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum) / JR Bus Chugoku240JPY
    Total480JPY

    Tour Report by kazuko

    I was born in Fukuyama and have lived in Hiroshima most of my life. After graduating from university, I worked for a company for three years before I got married. Since 1991 I have been an instructor of a tutorial school. I also have been studying English and Chinese as a credited auditor at university. I love traveling abroad and have visited more than 20 countries. And I learned that it is an encounter with people while traveling that made my visit unforgettable. So through my own experience, I want to be a supporter for tourists to Hiroshima and help them make their travel special. My favorite places are Peace Park, Miyajima, Hiroshima Castle and Shukkeien Garden. I also recommend green tea from Sera. Actually I know a tea master who grows tea plants without agricultural chemicals and fertilizers. You will find wonders of green tea and learn how to make delicious tea.

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    Jun 23, 2026
    Patricia_M
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kazuko was amazing!
    Great tour and amazing tour guide. Can’t…

    Jun 11, 2025
    Edward_T
    Hiroshima more than the A Bomb
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima is a good…

    Jun 8, 2025
    E
    eggtan
    Best short tour of Hiroshima Peace Park
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Booked Private 4…

    May 18, 2025
    B
    Brian_S
    Don’t miss Miyajima!
    Viator review: Miyajima Half-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Kazuko Kuwata, is a delightful…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Imperial Palace East & Yanaka Ginza ~ Sendagi

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Imperial Palace East & Yanaka Ginza ~ Sendagi

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet up @ Hotel Ginza 6-chome
    • 11:00 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 11:30 Asakusa (Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Okuyama, Hoppy Street, Shin-Nakamise)
    • 12:15 Lunch @ Nyorosuke Tonanya
    • 14:00 Yanaka Ginza ~ Sendagi
    • 15:30 JR Yurakucho Station ~ Mitsukoshi Ginza ~ Higashi-Ginza
    • 16:00 Disband @ Miharabashi Intersection

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Asakusa, and Yanaka The guests were visitors from Oceania. They had arrived at Narita the previous evening and woke up to an earthquake on the morning of the tour. Their plan was to spend a night at Fujikawaguchiko, then travel on to Kyoto, Osaka, and Naoshima. At the Imperial Palace, I explained the history from the Edo period to the Meiji era. Even though it was unfortunately rainy, the Ninomaru Garden was more than enough to charm the guests. In Asakusa, I explained the development of Edo culture and the pros and cons of Japan's period of national isolation, which left the country behind during the Industrial Revolution. We took plenty of time over lunch, and I advised them on whether the trip to Mount Fuji should be canceled with the approaching typhoon, and if so, whether to move on to Kyoto a day earlier or extend their stay in Tokyo. We extended our time visiting Yanaka Ginza, and the guests seemed to enjoy the atmosphere of Yanaka and Sendagi, including the back streets. At JR Yurakucho Station, I showed them how to purchase Shinkansen tickets, guided them through the underground passage to avoid the rain, showed them the location of the Ginza Mitsukoshi, and ended the tour at the Miharabashi intersection in Higashi-Ginza. The guests had been prepared for the rainy season at this time of year, but had not expected a typhoon, and I felt sorry for them.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Ginza～Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 2TrainOtemachi (Tokyo)～Asakusa180JPY
    Section 3SubwaySendagi～Hibiya180JPY
    Total540JPY

    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, Norway, 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

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Market & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Market & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:50　Meet up @ Hotel
    • 10:30　Tsukiji Market
    • 11:20　Imperial Palace
    • 12:20　Lunch @ Kaiten Sushi Maguro Ton'ya Megumi Harakado (Harajuku)
    • 13:00　Takeshita Street
    • 13:25　Meiji Shrine
    • 14:15　Disband @ Hotel

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, the Imperial Palace, and Meiji Shrine The guests were a group from North America visiting Japan for the first time. After sightseeing in Tokyo, they planned to travel to Kyoto and Osaka. At Tsukiji, they showed great interest in the many shops of the outer market and the tuna stores at Tsukiji Uogashi. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with interest to historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo shogunate. At Meiji Shrine, the guests seemed impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere, which was very different from Takeshita Street. They also listened with interest to explanations about the differences between shrines and temples. Although it was unfortunately rainy today, I responded exactly as the guests wished, so I believe they were satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShibuya～Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji～Nijubashimae180JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijubashimae～Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku～Shibuya160JPY
    Total760JPY

    Tour Report by Seizo

    I am Seizo Kamiuto, National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English). I was born in Kagoshima City in Kyushu (Southern part of Japan) and grew up there until the graduation from a high school. I came to Tokyo to enter a University in Tokyo and since then, I have lived in Tokyo for more than 40 years and therefore I know Tokyo and its suburbs and Kagoshima City very well. After retiring from an IT company, I have been working as a Guide Interpreter of English since March 2018. I have guided many overseas guests to the popular sightseeing spots in Tokyo, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji area (Kawaguchiko Lake etc.), Hakone, Nikko, Yokohama, Kawagoe and Kagoshima and so on. I have received good reviews from many guests. I can explain the history and the culture of Japan in detail. I look forward to an opportunity to guide you in Japan. Thank you. Seizo Kamiuto

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    Jul 10, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Beautiful Tour of Kamakura
    Seizo Kamiuto was out…

    Jun 9, 2026
    stacy_grana
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with an experienced guide
    Our guide, Seizo, was amazing.…

    Jun 6, 2026
    U9351HJjakes
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Seizo Kamiuto was great and super knowledgeable. He had a…

    May 20, 2026
    HugoJ670
    Tripadvisor review: Edo Tokyo & Japanese Culture Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Tokio in de zon
    Seizo Kaminto is een uitstekende…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①　09:00　Meet at Hilton Kyoto
    • ②　09:05　Itinerary confirmation and about the history of Kyoto
    • ③　09:30　Departure
    • ④　10:10　Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • ⑤　11:00　Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • ⑥　11:50　Stroll through the Bamboo Grove and Nonomiya Shrine
    • ⑦　12:15　Stroll through Tenryu-ji Temple Garden
    • ⑧　13:10　Disband at Hotel

    Title: What Is a 4-Hour Private Walking Tour of Kyoto's Sagano Area Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time, coming from North America. Their itinerary included a few days in Tokyo, several days in Osaka and Kyoto, and then a return to Tokyo before heading home. The guests were wonderfully cheerful and talked non-stop wherever we went. It reminded me of the lively chatter at home, and I laughed thinking this must be universal. There was hardly a moment to break into the conversation, and the guests would immediately start joking with each other. Since I lacked the background context and they spoke so rapidly, I often couldn't quite catch what was being said. Yet whenever I firmly stepped in, they listened intently, as if they had been waiting for it. It was a 4-hour course with little time to spare, so it took a while to find my rhythm. In the Sagano area, at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji and Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, there are many old and beautiful Japanese folkloric customs and stories — for example, the 1,200 rakan statues, the Obon festival, the Sento Kuyo thousand-lantern memorial service, and the stone-stacking of Sai-no-Kawara. Today I shared these kinds of stories, and the guests listened quietly and attentively. The Kansai region was hit by heavy rain due to the influence of a typhoon, and all of us, myself included, got thoroughly soaked. By the end, the guests were understandably a little tired and wanted to return to the hotel soon. Since we had agreed in advance to skip lunch, once we finished the planned itinerary we hurried by taxi to the hotel. When I asked what their plans were next, they said they wanted to eat, then have a bath and a massage. Judging by how tired they seemed, I imagine they went straight to sleep afterward. I hope they will share the story of Obon with the children at school — that Japan has customs similar to those found elsewhere.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto City Hall～Nijo220JPY
    Total220JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 – Meet in Asakusa
    • * Visit Kaminarimon Gate
    • * Walk through Nakamise Shopping Street
    • * Explore Senso-ji Temple
    • 09:40 – Travel to Harajuku / Meiji Jingu
    • 10:15 – 11:00
    • * Visit Meiji Jingu
    • * Walk along the forested approach
    • * Visit the main shrine
    • 11:00 – 11:30
    • * Explore Takeshita Street
    • * Experience the lively atmosphere of Harajuku
    • 11:30 – 12:00
    • * 30-minute break for coffee or a light meal
    • 12:00 – 13:00
    • * Visit Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • * See the Hachiko Statue
    • * Walk around central Shibuya

    What Is a Rainy-Day Private Family Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I was worried because I could not reach the guests until the morning of the tour, but I felt relieved when we finally got in touch that morning. The guests were a group visiting from North America. Because a typhoon was approaching, I also prepared an alternative schedule in case of heavy rain. When we left the Hotel it was only drizzling, so we proceeded as planned. Although some of the guests had only arrived in Japan the night before, they were energetic and eager throughout the day. It was raining quite hard on Takeshita Street, but we also made our way to Meiji Shrine. At the end, since it was pouring in Shibuya, I gave my explanations from inside a building. The guests were very pleased.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTawaramachi (Tokyo)～Asakusa180JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa～Meiji Jingu (Harajuku Station) / Shibuya Ward, Tokyo360JPY
    Section 3TrainYoyogi～Shibuya160JPY
    Total700JPY

    Tour Report by Mitch

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Support at Kyoto Station

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Support at Kyoto Station

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:20 Meet at Kyoto Station
    • 10:50 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 12:30 Lunch
    • 13:30 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 14:15 Support at Kyoto Station
    • 14:30 Tour ends at the Shinkansen ticket gate

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Fushimi Inari and Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group who arrived in Kyoto by Shinkansen on the day of the tour, coming from Shizuoka. Communication had been handled in advance, and although there had been talk of canceling the tour due to unstable weather, they arrived as planned. I guided them to Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and for lunch, upon request, I took them to a gluten-free ramen shop. As they were visiting from Europe, they were struggling with jet lag and appeared quite tired. I also helped resolve a PASMO error and assist with changing a Shinkansen ticket at Kyoto Station, then saw them off at the Shinkansen ticket gate to conclude the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari～Gion-Shijo240JPY
    Section 3BusKiyomizu-michi / Kyoto City Bus～Kyoto Station / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total620JPY

    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.…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo sightseeing & Futarasan Shrine sightseeing

    Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo sightseeing & Futarasan Shrine sightseeing

    Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 　　　 Meet the guest at JR Nikko Station
    • Travel by bus to Shinkyo
    • 11:40~11:55　Shinkyo sightseeing
    • 12:00~13:00 Lunch
    • 13:00~15:00 Toshogu sightseeing
    • 15:00~15:40　Rinnoji Temple sightseeing
    • 15:40~16:10　Taiyuin sightseeing
    • 16:10~16:30　Futarasan Shrine sightseeing
    • Travel by bus to Tobu Nikko
    • 17:00　　　　 Disband at Tobu Nikko Station

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Nikko's World Heritage Sites Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests initially hoped to visit Toshogu Shrine, Rinnoji Temple, the Shinkyo Bridge, and Kegon Falls. However, since the arrival time in Nikko was 11:00, I consulted with the guests and we decided to focus on the World Heritage area. To help them enjoy this area as much as possible, I planned for them to have a meal at a traditional Japanese restaurant located just past the Shinkyo Bridge, at the entrance of the World Heritage area, where they could dine while looking out over the garden. We then took about two hours to explore Toshogu Shrine, the highlight of Nikko, at a leisurely pace. The guests had high expectations before the tour, so they were captivated by its beauty. They were also very interested in the drama Shogun, so they listened intently to the stories about the historical background. Afterward, at Rinnoji Temple, they appreciated a different side from the shrine as well as the Japanese garden, and seemed very satisfied. I believe it turned out to be a Nikko tour that will remain in the guests' hearts.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusTobu Nikko Station／Tobu Bus～Shinkyo／Tobu Bus220JPY
    Section 2BusTaiyuin Futarasan Shrine-mae／Tobu Bus～Tobu Nikko Station／Tobu Bus350JPY
    Total570JPY

    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.

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    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…

    Jun 30, 2026
    Rolando_A
    Viator review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A fantastic day!
    We had an amazing day. Our guide was Taka.…

    Jun 25, 2026
    N8851CTrebeccaf
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We cannot recommend Taka highly…

    Jun 21, 2026
    kevin L
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing personal tour where you get to choose or have a…