Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:00 Meet at The b Ginza
    • 2. 10:00 Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 3. 12:00 Tokyo Station ~ Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 4. 14:30 Asakusa (Nakamise Shopping Street, Sensoji Temple)
    • 5. 15:50 Meiji Shrine
    • 6. 16:30 Shibuya (Hachiko Statue, Scramble Crossing)
    • 7. 17:00 Disband at Shimbashi Station

    Title: What Is a First-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe, and they were planning to travel through Japan and other destinations before continuing on to Oceania. It was their first time in Japan, and since it was the first day of a stay of about ten days, they wanted to learn various things such as how to ride the trains and how to buy Shinkansen tickets. They had shared their preferred destinations in advance, so I guided them accordingly, though Koishikawa Korakuen was changed to Hamarikyu Gardens for the sake of the itinerary. They were very energetic and completed the entire itinerary without any problems. They commented that it had been a very enjoyable day and that they had learned many things, so I believe they were satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShimbashi～Tokyo150JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)～Asakusa180JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa～Meiji-jingumae260JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku～Shibuya150JPY
    Section 5SubwayShibuya～Shimbashi180JPY
    Total920JPY

    Tour Report by Nobu

    Hi, I am Nobu, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English).
    I have been an English guide in Tokyo area since January 2017.
    Tokyo is a wonderful city, and you may enjoy this city by yourselves.
    Even so, I recommend you go around with a guide, especially if it is your first time visit to Tokyo.
    A good guide will help you to understand about Tokyo and Japan as well as how to use convenient but complicated public transportations more effectively.
    I am glad if I can help you to make your tour more enjoyable.
    I am looking forward to meeting you in Tokyo soon!
    Nobu

    Request Booking

    Jun 2, 2026
    amandavW9846AW
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Tokyo day trip!
    We had a wonderfull day with Nobu! He…

    May 25, 2026
    Matthew_C
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nobu was an excellent and…
    Nobu was an excellent and informative guide…

    May 24, 2026
    Diane D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Pleasant Intro to Tokyo
    Nobu was an experienced and informative guide.…

    Apr 28, 2026
    GrandTour57165664797
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Awesome!
    It was our first visit to Japan. Nobu was very knowledgeable…

  • Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 09:00 Tour starts at hotel
    • Move on foot to the Nagamachi Samurai District area
    • AM 09:15- 11:00 Nagamachi Samurai District: Visit Takada Residence, Ashigaru Museum, Nomura Residence
    • Move by bus to Higashi Chaya District
    • AM 11:30- PM12:30 Higashi Chaya District: Visit Shima, Utasu Shrine
    • Move by bus to Kenrokuen-shita
    • PM13:00 -13:30 Lunch at a teahouse in Kenrokuen
    • PM 13:30-14:15 Visit Kenrokuen
    • PM 14:15-15:00 Kanazawa Castle Park: Visit Hishi Yagura, Gojukken Nagaya, Hashizumemon Tsuzuki Yagura, Gyokusen'an
    • Move by TAXI to Nishida Residence, tour ends at Gyokusen'en PM 15:15

    Title: What Is a Private Kanazawa Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. In the end, even after I sent an email, there was no contact until the day of the tour, and a messaging app was not in use either, so we ended up deciding the tour itinerary during our meeting on the day. The request noted that they wished to finish the tour at Gyokusenen, so I had assumed this meant the tea room at Gyokusenin, but it actually turned out to be Gyokusen-en Garden at the Nishida family residence. Since there was no reservation at Gyokusenin, I identified this by checking the reservation document prepared by a local travel agency that the guests had. After phoning the Nishida residence, we hurried there by taxi and managed to avoid any trouble, though the tour ended at 15:15. Because there was no address information and no advance contact was possible, confirming the details in advance had not been possible. The guests thoroughly enjoyed the tour itself.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKorinbo／Hokuriku Railroad Bus～Hashibacho／Hokuriku Railroad Bus210JPY
    Section 2BusHashibacho／Hokuriku Railroad Bus～Kenrokuen-shita・Kanazawa Castle／Hokuriku Railroad Bus210JPY
    Total420JPY

    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!

    Request Booking

    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。

  • Gifu: Folk Village & Observation Deck

    Gifu: Folk Village & Observation Deck

    Shirakawa-go Day Trip from Takayama by Car, Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meeting up
    • 10:30 Arrive at Shirakawa-go Seseragi Parking Lot
    • 10:40 Folk Village
    • 11:45 Head to Shirakawa-go Village
    • 12:10 Lunch at Ochudo
    • 13:00 Kanda House
    • 13:30 Observation Deck
    • 14:10 Depart from Seseragi Parking Lot
    • 15:10 Arrive in Takayama City, Hida Kokubunji Temple
    • 15:30 Dismissal

    Title: What Is a Private Autumn Tour of Takayama and Shirakawa-go Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were truly friendly and easygoing. They asked many questions, and we were able to talk about a great deal. The weather and the autumn foliage were also very beautiful, and at the open-air folk house park we were able to spend a truly relaxing time. We were also able to enjoy a free tasting of doburoku, which was being offered for a limited period, and I explained the difference in taste between amazake and doburoku, as well as some general information about Japanese sake. Although it was a busy season, the timing worked out very well, and the whole group was able to get into my favorite gassho-zukuri style café for lunch, where the guests were impressed by trying Japanese curry rice for the first time. Finally, with the time remaining, we saw the great ginkgo tree at Kokubunji Temple in Takayama before parting ways.

    Click here for more details: Shirakawa-go Day Trip from Takayama by Car, Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Annie

    My name is Akane Ito from Takayama city.
    I started a tour guiding from 2013.
    I was guiding almost 1000 people.
    I love this job. And I love people who visit in my town. I will take a you to local place where my favorite places . I’m good about communication with the guest and always cheerful. I will take you to Local Sake brewery for tasting sake, Morning Market, Historical places (Takayama Jinya, Takayama festival float museum and Old private houses area) ands my favorite places. If you are interesting about me, please feel free to contact me.

    Request Booking

    Oct 11, 2025
    Traveler27625367943
    Outstanding, enjoyable tour!
    Tripadvisor review: Takayama Half-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Annie (Akane) was a wonderful guide…knowledgeable, engaging, fun,…

    Aug 30, 2024
    Leonie_B
    Interesting and informative
    Viator review: Takayama Half-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Annie is a delightful person and great guide.…

    Jun 29, 2024
    MarydeS
    Lovely morning tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Takayama Half-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our morning tour around the old centre of…

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

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

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:30 Meet @ The Westin Miyako Kyoto
    • 8:05-8:50 @ Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 9:15-10:00 @ Kiyomizu-dera
    • 11:00-11:45 @ Nanzen-ji
    • 12:40-13:30 @ Kinkaku-ji
    • 13:30 Disband @ Near the Kinkaku-ji entrance/exit

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, Nanzen-ji, and Kinkaku-ji The guests were a group visiting from North America. They had originally planned to travel to Vietnam, but while in Seoul they were informed that their entire schedule in Vietnam had been canceled due to a typhoon, so they decided to come to Japan instead. This was their ninth day in Japan, and they had already traveled from Tokyo to Hakone to Kyoto. One of the guests had a DSLR camera and took many photographs. Fushimi Inari was relatively uncrowded, which made it easy to guide. They experienced both the Omokaru-ishi (lightness-heaviness stone) and the Neagari-no-matsu (raised-root pine). We took a taxi from Fushimi Inari to Kiyomizu-dera, entering from the Seikan-ji area behind the temple. At the Otowa Waterfall, the guests drank the water. On the approach to Kiyomizu-dera, they purchased a box of nama-yatsuhashi. At Nanzen-ji, rather than the Hojo Garden, I guided them through Tenju-an, one of the sub-temples. The autumn foliage was at its peak, and they were very delighted. After strolling through Kinkaku-ji, at the guests' request, we parted ways near the entrance of Kinkaku-ji.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKeage～Sanjo Keihan (Highway/Connecting Bus)220JPY
    Section 2TrainSanjo (Kyoto)～Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Section 3BusKiyomizu-michi / Kyoto City Bus～Higashiyama Sanjo (Subway Higashiyama Station) / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4SubwayHigashiyama (Kyoto)～Keage220JPY
    Section 5SubwayKeage～Nishioji Oike260JPY
    Section 6BusNishioji Oike / Kyoto City Bus～Kinkaku-ji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total1,400JPY

    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 Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Hotel Kyoto Kawaramachi Jokanji
    • 1 Take the Keihan train to Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • (8:30-9:20) Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 2 Take the Keihan train to Demachiyanagi
    • Take a taxi from Demachiyanagi Station to Kinkaku-ji
    • (9:50-10:30) Kinkaku-ji
    • 3 Take a taxi to Arashiyama
    • Arashiyama sightseeing (10:50-11:30)
    • Lunch (11:40-12:20)
    • Arashiyama Monkey Park (12:30-13:30)
    • 4 Take the Hankyu train to Kyoto Kawaramachi
    • 14:10 Disband at Kyoto Kawaramachi

    Title: What Does a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Kinkaku-ji, and Arashiyama The guests were a lively group visiting from North America. First, we went to Fushimi Inari Taisha. At the purification fountain, I explained how to cleanse the hands and mouth before praying. Then I guided them to the front of the main hall and taught them the proper etiquette: two bows, two claps, stating a wish, and a final bow. After passing through the Senbon Torii, we reached the Okunoin. To the right and back of it is a stone called the "Omokaru-ishi." First, you make a wish in front of the lantern. Then you lift the round stone placed on top of the lantern. The guests were fascinated by the idea that if the stone feels lighter than you expected, your wish will come true, and they enthusiastically gave it a try. Second, we went to Kinkaku-ji. They were interested to learn that the admission ticket is shaped like a talisman, and that placing it at the entrance of one's home is said to ward off misfortune. They were also moved by the beauty of the Golden Pavilion across the pond and took many photographs. Third, we visited Tenryu-ji Temple, the Sagano Bamboo Grove, and Arashiyama Park. They were impressed by the Sogenchi Garden, the historic main hall, and the view of the lush green bamboo grove, and took photographs. Finally, we went to the Arashiyama Monkey Park. They were delighted by the adorable monkeys and the view from the summit.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGion-Shijo～Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari～Demachiyanagi300JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama (Hankyu Line)～Kyoto Kawaramachi240JPY
    Total780JPY

    Tour Report by Kaji

    I have been an English teacher since 1979. In 2024, I obtained the national qualification of Certified Guide Interpreter.
    Currently, after retiring, I teach English as a part-time lecturer at a Hyogo Prefectural High School.
    My hobbies are tennis, table tennis, traveling, studying English, and Japanese history.
    I play tennis and table tennis twice a week. I love traveling because I can see beautiful scenery and learn about Japanese history.
    I chose Kyoto and Nara prefectures as my guiding locations. Both were once the capitals of Japan.
    Kyoto was the residence of emperors from 794 to 1868 and was a stage for Japanese history.
    It has beautiful scenery, Japanese history, magnificent buildings and gardens, and delicious food.
    I would like to share the charms of Japan with foreign tourists as much as possible.
    I live in Amagasaki City, which is adjacent to Osaka. Kyoto is a little far from my home,
    but I would like to leave home early in the morning and enjoy traveling with my guests.
    Thank you for your consideration.

    Request Booking

    Mar 30, 2026
    MrJames_L
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Great tour with Kaji
    We had an excellent…

    Jul 3, 2025
    Radit T
    Worthwhile private tour on our first full day in Kyoto!
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle…

    Jun 7, 2025
    Lisa_H
    Great tour guide and driver
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Overall a great…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Tobu Nikko Station & Nikko Coffee

    Tochigi in One Day: Tobu Nikko Station & Nikko Coffee

    Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Tobu Nikko Station
    • 9:15 Shinkyo Bridge
    • 9:25 Sanbutsudo
    • 9:40 Toshogu Shrine
    • 12:00 Futarasan Shrine
    • 12:30 Lunch @ Maruhide Shokudo
    • 13:45 Kanmangafuchi Abyss
    • 14:30 Nikko Coffee
    • 15:00 Tobu Nikko Station

    Title: What Is a Private Day Trip to Nikko Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan from Europe. The tour was originally scheduled to start at 10:00, but since a train reservation could not be secured, the start time was adjusted to match the earliest limited express of the morning. In the end, this worked out well, as it was peak season and everywhere was crowded, so having an earlier start was a great advantage. At Toshogu Shrine, the sacred horse happened to be in the sacred stable (I even mentioned that it was my first time seeing it myself), and a wedding ceremony was taking place, so despite the crowds, the guests were able to enjoy a special atmosphere. The shaved ice that the guests requested was also something they seemed to enjoy, as the weather was not too cold.

    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 (Express/Connecting Bus)～Shinkyo/Tobu Bus220JPY
    Section 2BusNishi-Sando Entrance (GSM)/Tobu Bus～Tobu Nikko Station/Tobu Bus430JPY
    Total650JPY

    Tour Report by YOKO

    Hello! I’m Yoko.
    I live in Tochigi Prefecture about 40 years and currently based in Utsunomiya, city near Nikko.
    I’m a mother of two kids, and a beagle dog.
    Also I’ve lived in Tennessee for 3 years until 2020.
    I was always happy whenever introducing Japanese culture to local people while living in US.
    Now I’m so excited to introduce you various attractions here in Japan.
    I love traveling, nature, food, Kimono, tea ceremony, manga etc.
    I’m looking forward to showing my guests beautiful places and interesting things related to my neighbor area.
    Let’s explore and have fun with me!

    Request Booking

    May 26, 2026
    Samuel_G
    Viator review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Informative, fun and well organized
    We had the best day with our…

    May 17, 2026
    E1320OQrobertg
    A fabulous day in Nikko!
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent day with Yoko as our guide.…

    Mar 9, 2026
    claudiomC4921YK
    The bed guide for a really amazing place
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoko was an amazing…

    Dec 21, 2025
    Earhart_Adventures
    Insight in to Japanese feudal culture
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Full Day trip from Tokyo- our…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Toshogu & Hongu Shrine

    Tochigi in One Day: Toshogu & Hongu Shrine

    Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30　Meet the guest at JR Nikko Station
    • 09:00~11:00　Toshogu sightseeing
    • 11:00~11:40　Rinnoji Temple sightseeing
    • 11:50~12:30　Toshogu Museum sightseeing
    • 12:40~13:00　Shinkyo Bridge sightseeing
    • 13:00~13:15　Hongu Shrine sightseeing
    • 13:15~14:20　Lunch
    • 14:30　Disband at JR Nikko Station

    Title: What Is a Private Group Tour in Japan Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guided a group of guests visiting from North America. The group's representative had informed me in advance of some considerations for a few members of the group, so I paid careful attention to the pace throughout the tour. As it turned out, the pace was surprisingly good, and we were able to visit considerably more sightseeing spots than I had expected. The guests also seemed very fond of the restaurant I had reserved for them. Overall, they were extremely satisfied. Planning this itinerary required a great deal of consultation and several changes, so preparation took quite a lot of time. There were also route changes on the day itself. Since this was a group with different preferences among its members, adjustments and additional time were needed to accommodate everyone. I also felt it was best to guide with sufficient care and attention to ensure everyone in the group was comfortable. That is all.

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

    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

    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…

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

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

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ The Thousand Kyoto
    • 10:25-11:30 @ Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 11:55-12:40 Shopping (looking for kimono) @ Vintage Kimono AN Gion
    • 12:45-13:15 @ Gion
    • 13:25-14:20 Lunch @ Gion Ramen Giontei
    • 14:50-15:45 @ Kinkaku-ji
    • 16:15 Disband @ The Thousand Kyoto

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? Fushimi Inari, Gion, and Kinkaku-ji with a Licensed Guide The guests were a group of friends visiting from North America. Originally, they had hoped to visit Fushimi Inari, the geisha district, Nijo Castle, and the Arashiyama bamboo grove, but before departure they said they did not need to visit Nijo Castle or the Arashiyama bamboo grove separately, so we decided to skip those. At Fushimi Inari Taisha, everyone experienced passing under the roots of the Neagari-no-Matsu pine tree. On the way to Gion, they said they wanted to visit a shop where they could buy kimono, so we stopped at a shop along Higashioji-dori called Vintage Kimono AN Gion. Regarding the geisha district, I explained its culture and traditions as we passed through Gion. For lunch, they said they wanted to eat ramen, so they had a meal at "Ramen Giontei." After lunch, I called an Uber taxi and we headed to Kinkaku-ji. In the taxi, they asked me to make a reservation at the okonomiyaki restaurant "Yamamoto Manbo," so I called the restaurant directly and made a reservation for dinner that evening. At Kinkaku-ji, the autumn foliage was beautiful, and everyone said in agreement that it was the best of all the places we visited that day. From Kinkaku-ji, I took the guests back to their hotel again by Uber taxi, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari～Kiyomizu-Gojo240JPY
    Section 3BusGojo-Yamato Oji / Higashiyama Kaiseikan-mae / Kyoto City Bus～Higashiyama Yasui / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total620JPY

    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 Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①　08:00　Meet at JR Kyoto Station Platform 33
    • ②　08:05　Itinerary explanation and about the history of Kyoto
    • ③　08:45　Arashiyama・Heisei-in (explanation about Jizo Bodhisattva and Sai-no-Kawara)
    • ④　09:00　Bamboo Grove
    • ⑤　09:45　Tenryu-ji・Garden
    • ⑥　10:30　Togetsukyo Bridge
    • ⑦　11:20　Daitoku-ji・Obaiin
    • ⑧　13:00　Nishiki Market (lunch and shopping)
    • ⑨　14:00　Disband at Gion-Shijo

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama, Nishiki Market, and Gion The guests were from North America, and this was their second visit to Japan, having previously visited Tokyo many years ago, though it was their first time in Kyoto. They said they had wanted to see the bamboo grove, Nishiki Market, and the atmosphere of geisha walking in Gion. When I explained today that, unfortunately, geisha and maiko are rarely seen during the daytime because they are attending their lessons, we changed the destinations, which led to today's itinerary. Although the guests had lived in North America from a very young age, so I assumed they would be quite Westernized at heart, the influence of their upbringing and education gave them a strong Asian outlook, and they were both Buddhists. In particular, when I spoke at a Zen temple about the transmission of Buddhism and politics, dry landscape gardens, zazen meditation, wabi-sabi, and Rikyu's cherished idea of ichigo ichie, they did not know all of it, but they took a keen and personal interest in these topics, comparing them with their own understanding of Buddhist thought and enjoying the conversation. The guests enjoyed talking about their family and showing family photos to one another, and we had a fascinating discussion about politics and economics, the differences in national character between North America and Asia, and the differences in the structures of Japanese and North American society (such as taxes and pensions). The guests loved shopping, and at Nishiki Market they sampled food and bought various items, and I was impressed by how quickly they made decisions. Drinking, eating, talking, sightseeing, taking photos, and talking again — even though I was the one guiding, I have no doubt they thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Since they were staying at a hotel in the Minami area of Osaka, we parted ways once in Gion after the tour, but in the end we traveled back together to Umeda in Osaka. As we chatted about this and that on the train, they mentioned they were going to buy a baseball glove in Umeda, so I told them where to find the MIZUNO store, and we said goodbye there.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Total240JPY

    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
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    Great guide and very…
    Great guide and very knowledgeable.…

    Jul 13, 2026
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    Kyoto highlights with Kazu.
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    Jul 12, 2026
    cgalvez73
    Fantastic tour guide
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    Our guide in Kyoto was Kazu.…

    Jun 23, 2026
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  • Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet at Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo
    • 09:50 to 10:30 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 11:10 to 12:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 13:15 to 14:00 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 14:30 　 Dismiss at Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Tour Like for Senior Travelers? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. The group traveled by minibus. Since Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine are located far from the minibus parking areas, and in particular Kiyomizu-dera required walking up the long slope and the stairs of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka from the Kodaiji parking lot, I felt that all of the guests did very well. The guests needed to ship their luggage before returning home, and since a delivery company was said to be coming to pick it up around 2:30, we returned to the Hotel by that time. As a result, we parted ways 30 minutes earlier than scheduled.

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    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
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    Amazing!
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    Haru was amazing on our tour of Nara. He was…

    Dec 4, 2024
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    Dec 3, 2024
    Charlie_Jane00
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    Haru was a well organised and very informative guide. He…