Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: 00 @Hamarikyu Gardens

    Tokyo in One Day: 00 @Hamarikyu Gardens

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.8:00 Meet up @Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
    • 2.8:20 @Meiji Shrine
    • 3:10:00 @Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 4.11:30 @Asakusa
    • 5.12:30 @Kappabashi
    • 6.13:40 @Shibuya Crossing
    • 7.14:00 Disband @Shibuya PARCO

    What Does a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Include? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Hamarikyu, Asakusa, and Shibuya The guests were a group of friends visiting from North America. Most of them were visiting Japan for the first time. They said that Meiji Shrine was very beautiful and that it was wonderful to have such a place in the middle of the city. At Hamarikyu Gardens, they enjoyed matcha and Japanese sweets at the Nakajima Teahouse while taking in the beautiful scenery. In Asakusa, they bought ningyo-yaki at Nakamise Street and had fun drawing omikuji fortunes. At Kappabashi, they were very interested in the knives and ceramics, and each purchased a favorite kitchen knife or piece of tableware. After experiencing the Shibuya Crossing, I guided them to Parco and ended the tour. They were a very close-knit and cheerful group, and with the relatively warm weather, I believe they had an enjoyable time.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku~Shiodome370JPY
    Section 3TrainShimbashi~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 4TrainTawaramachi (Tokyo)~Shibuya260JPY
    Total990JPY

    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.

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Gion

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Gion

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:00 Hotel Meet (@Hotel Kyoto Sanjo)
    • 7:00-7:40 Travel (Keihan Railway; Keihan Sanjo → Fushimi Inari)
    • 7:40-8:40 Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 8:40-9:10 Travel (Keihan Railway; Fushimi Inari → Keihan Shichijo)
    • 9:10-10:00 Visit Sanjusangendo
    • 10:00-10:30 Travel (City Bus: Sanjusangendo-mae → Gojozaka)
    • 10:30-12:00 Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple (including Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka, Yasaka Pagoda, Koshindo)
    • 12:00-12:30 Visit Yasaka Shrine
    • 12:30-13:00 Stroll around Gion (Hanamikoji, Gion Shirakawa)
    • 13:00 Tour ends. Said goodbye to the guests in Gion.

    Title: What Does a Private Winter Day Tour of Kyoto Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were an older group visiting from Oceania. It was their first time in Japan, and the trip was to mark a special milestone. I took them to Fushimi Inari Taisha, Sanjusangendo, Kiyomizu-dera (including Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka, the Yasaka Pagoda, and Koshin-do), Yasaka Shrine, and Gion. When we met and were reviewing the schedule again, a request came in to cancel the previously agreed visit to Kinkaku-ji and instead head to the venue for a tea ceremony experience that had been booked earlier than expected. Because of this, I quickly changed the destination from Kinkaku-ji to Sanjusangendo and reorganized the schedule so that we could travel to the tea ceremony location with plenty of time to spare. In places with sunshine it felt warm, making it a fairly comfortable climate for a midwinter tour. Since this was an early-morning tour, Fushimi Inari was not yet very crowded, but Kiyomizu-dera was quite busy due to the Lunar New Year. The guests said they especially enjoyed Kiyomizu-dera, particularly its cliffside architecture. In addition, one of the guests noted that Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka were also very enjoyable.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSanjo (Kyoto Prefecture)~Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari~Keihan Shichijo / Princess Line180JPY
    Section 3BusHigashiyama Shichijo / Kyoto City Bus~Gojozaka / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total650JPY

    My name is (Mr.)Michiharu Aioi and I worked at Electronic Manufacturing Company (Panasonic) for more than 40 years in charge of overseas sales.
    I learned a lot in these 40 years and now I would like to contribute to the promotion of mutual understanding with foreign countries being involved in tourism busines utilizing my long experience in my previous company. I will do my best to make each trip very fruitful for each foreign visitor.
    As for my language ability, in addition to English, I can speak Spanish which I used in my job and I can communicate with Chinese people with intermediate level. Finally It is my great pleasure if my activity could work in the mutual understang with foreign visitors. Thanks a Lot !

    Aug 4, 2026
    Elie_S
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Wonderful and informative walking tour with Michi
    We had a lovely…

    Jul 19, 2026
    Wander35832177180
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Kyoto temple tour
    Our Kyoto guided tour (Aioi Michiharu) was a…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Abby_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour. Highly recommend
    Michi our guide was excellent!…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Javier P
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto gems
    Michi was incredibly courteous and informative.…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kitano Tenmangu Shrine & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto in One Day: Kitano Tenmangu Shrine & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet at the central ticket gate of Kyoto Station
    • 10:20 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove・Tenryu-ji Temple・Togetsukyo Bridge
    • 12:30 Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
    • 13:00 Lunch
    • 14:10 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 15:50 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 16:45 Fushimi Inari Station (Tour ends)

    Title: What Is a Private Full-Day Kyoto Tour Like? Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji, and Fushimi Inari — A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Having arrived in Kyoto only the previous night, we set up the SUICA app after meeting, so the tour started a little later than planned. In Arashiyama, three sightseeing stops had been scheduled, so one hour was not enough to cover them all. Combined with the time spent taking photographs, we arrived at Kitano Tenmangu about an hour behind schedule. Unfortunately, the plum blossoms were not blooming very much. Afterward, since the guests wished to have Japanese cuisine, I took them to a nearby restaurant, but there were very few dishes suitable for their dietary preferences, which resulted in some inconvenience. Next, we visited Kinkaku-ji. As the schedule had fallen significantly behind, I checked the guests' plans for after the tour, and they replied that they had nothing in particular scheduled and did not mind if we ran a little late. So we visited Fushimi Inari Taisha as originally planned, and ultimately finished the tour about one hour and twenty minutes behind schedule.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 2TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)~Kitano-Hakubaicho250JPY
    Section 3BusKinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus~Enmachi230JPY
    Section 4TrainEnmachi~Inari200JPY
    Total920JPY

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

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

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

    I’m looking forward to meeting you!

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.9:00 Meet up @1 Chome-5  Minowa, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0011, Japan (Airbnb)
    • 2.9:10 @Minowabashi (Toden Arakawa Line Sakura Tram Station, Joyful Minowa Shopping Street)
    • 3.10:00 @Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 4.11:15 @Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue, Pepper PARLOR inside FUKURAS)
    • 5.11:45 Lunch @Handmade Soba Takenouchi
    • 6.12:45 @Takanawa Gateway Station + Nowoman 28th-29th floors
    • 7.13:20 @Zojoji Temple
    • 8.13:40 @Tokyo Tower
    • 9.14:10 @Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • 10.14:35 @Tokyo Station (Station Plaza, Marunouchi Side Station Building)
    • 11.15:10 @Roppongi (Aoyama Cemetery, National Art Center)
    • 12.15:55 Disband @In front of a restaurant just before Roppongi Crossing

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Takanawa Gateway, Aoyama Cemetery, Shibuya, and Roppongi The guests were a group of three visiting from North America. One of the guests had been to Japan as a child, but the others were visiting for the first time. Over about two weeks, they planned to travel around Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, and finally enjoy skiing and snowboarding in Myoko Kogen. Regarding the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, one of the guests who snowboards said, "Japan is amazing!" As for the itinerary, the guests were interested in both major sightseeing spots and hidden gems, and wished to visit as many places as possible. Since they seemed full of energy and not much affected by jet lag, and because we were also blessed with good weather, I included a somewhat ambitious program as their guide. They were greatly impressed by every place we visited, making them very rewarding guests to lead. In particular, they cheered at the greenery of the sky garden at the commercial facility in front of Takanawa Gateway Station and the views seen from there. They were also surprised by the presence of a foreigners' section at Aoyama Cemetery, where the plum blossoms happened to be in full bloom, and they greatly enjoyed the scene, including the fragrance. They took many photos themselves, and I also took many photos with my smartphone and shared them with the guests. For lunch in Shibuya, we entered a restaurant a little early so we did not have to wait in line. The guests chose a handmade soba restaurant. When they tried the shrimp tempura, it was crisply fried, and they commented that it was the most delicious tempura they had ever had. There are also Japanese restaurants where they live, and one of the guests said they love sushi, kakiage, and curry. The final stop was Roppongi, but since one of the guests followed a gluten-free diet, we happened to find a gluten-free café, and we parted ways in front of it after visiting Aoyama Cemetery.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Minowa~Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae900JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku~Shibuya150JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya~Takanawa Gateway180JPY
    Section 4TrainTakanawa Gateway~Hamamatsucho150JPY
    Section 5Free PassTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Kamiyacho~Kasumigaseki0JPY
    Section 6Free PassTokyo Metro Marunouchi Line Tokyo~Hibiya Line Roppongi0JPY
    Total1,380JPY

    Hello, I’m Noripy.
    I am a lively woman in my 60s who loves having fun. My charm lies in my bright and approachable personality. Drawing on over 30 years of international experience, I began working as a tour guide in 2023. I have conducted over 100 tours annually, ensuring that my clients enjoy Tokyo and its surrounding areas. I have received high praise from a wide range of customers, from teenagers to people in their 80s. I cater to solo travelers, couples, newlyweds, families, and groups of up to about 10 people. Living in the heart of the city, I actively guide tours primarily in Tokyo. In addition to being certified in English, one of my strengths is being able to communicate effectively in Spanish as well.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you all in Tokyo!

    Sep 10, 2026
    Sonal_G
    Noripy is just the best
    Viator review: Tokyo Vegetarian and Halal Food Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Noripy is such a…

    Jul 3, 2026
    Jody D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from Yokohama
    Best Post cruise tour ever
    It was…

    June 19, 2026
    Alec T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo in 4 hours
    Noripy was excellent! She guided us through…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Hema_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely experience. My…
    Lovely experience. My guide was an absolutely adorable lady…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Kyoto Machiya Ryokan Sakura Urushitei Meeting
    • 8:50 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 10:00 Sannenzaka ~ Yasaka Pagoda ~ Yasaka Koshindo ~ Yasui Konpiragu Shrine
    • 10:30 Gion Hanamikoji District
    • 11:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 12:30 Dismissal at the entrance of Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kiyomizu-dera and Fushimi Inari Today I guided the group visiting from Oceania. It was their first time in Kyoto, and Kiyomizu-dera and Fushimi Inari Taisha were on their must-see list. Since one of the guests found walking a little difficult, we started at Kiyomizu-dera and planned a route heading downhill. As it was not yet peak season, there were relatively few visitors, and I believe the guests were able to fully enjoy Kiyomizu-dera. They were happy to listen to detailed explanations as well. I also think they thoroughly enjoyed the Higashiyama district, where there were few people. Fushimi Inari Taisha was also relatively uncrowded, which was excellent. I believe the guests had a wonderful time.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGion-Shijo~Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Total240JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Jingu Shrine & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Jingu Shrine & Asakusa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Meet at The Ritz-Carlton > Buy a 24-hour pass at Nogizaka Station and start
    • 12:40 Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 13:50 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 15:20 Nezu Shrine
    • 15:45 Break @Couzt Café — 2 people felt tired and went home from here
    • 16:45 Ueno Toshogu Shrine
    • 17:10 Asakusa (Skytree photo)
    • 18:20 Disband at The Ritz-Carlton

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Full-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace East Gardens, and Asakusa The sky remained overcast throughout the day, but it did not rain, so the tour proceeded smoothly. Some of the guests were feeling tired after work. We discussed the itinerary at the Hotel and settled on the route above. At Meiji Shrine, there were many questions about religion, and the guests showed great interest in the sake barrels and the surrounding forest. At the Imperial Palace East Gardens, the guests were interested in the long-finned nishikigoi carp. After visiting Nezu Shrine, we took a break at a café in Nezu, but some of the guests, affected by jet lag and fatigue, said they would head back and left at that point. I continued the tour with the remaining guest. We visited Ueno Toshogu Shrine and Asakusa at a slightly quicker pace, and after seeing them back to the Hotel, the tour came to an end. A tip was received.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassNogizaka~Meiji-jingumae700JPY
    Section 2Free PassMeiji-jingumae~Otemachi0JPY
    Section 3Free PassOtemachi~Nezu0JPY
    Section 4Free PassUeno~Asakusa0JPY
    Section 5Free PassAsakusa~Roppongi0JPY
    Total700JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • ① 09:00 Meet at Osaka Tempozan Cruise Terminal
    • ② 09:05 Transfer (Osaka Port~Kyoto)
    • ③ 11:15 Arashiyama・Bamboo Grove~Kameyama Park~Togetsukyo Bridge
    • ④ 12:30 Daitoku-ji Temple・Obai-in
    • ⑤ 13:50 Ninenzaka・Yasaka Pagoda・Ishibei-koji Alley・Yasaka Shrine・Gion Shinbashi・Pontocho
    • ⑥ 15:20 Teramachi Street~Nishiki Market (lunch)~Shopping
    • ⑦ 17:00 Disband at Osaka Tempozan Cruise Terminal

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like for Guests Who Speak Little English? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from Europe, and this was their first trip to Japan. Since their home area is known for a football team that a famous Japanese player once played for, we chatted a little about football. The guests did not speak much English, so although I offered a brief explanation of Kyoto's history in the morning, they seemed to find it difficult to follow, and I had to stop partway through. This time, the request was to see Gion and the bamboo grove, so I had prepared an itinerary that also included Tenryu-ji and Sanjusangendo. When I explained it on the day, however, they said they had already seen many temples in Southeast Asia and did not need more. Since detailed explanations were hard to convey, we simply walked around to photogenic spots one after another. Daitoku-ji and Obaiin are Zen temples, but rather than calling them temples, I introduced them as places to see a Japanese garden and a dry landscape garden. Although I did not explain much, I believe they enjoyed the simple beauty of the Zen temple. The attached photo is a little unusual, but one of the guests always looks away from the lens, so this was the only kind of photo I could get. I think it conveys something of their personality. The other guest was a quiet and gentlemanly person. The language barrier was significant, but the atmosphere was far from silent; since one of the guests was very lively, we talked about many things even without full understanding. At times, one of them would manage to interpret for the other. Both of the guests are technical specialists who handle the base preparation process before color is applied to craftwork, and I was able to hear about this in connection with the golden decorations on the buildings at Yasaka Shrine. Even that came through by translating into German on a smartphone and asking again and again, but in any case we had a lively time together. I hope they were able to enjoy their day. At Nishiki Market they had wagyu beef steak and loved wasabi, but eel apparently made them shudder. They also disliked chirimen-jako and takoyaki. They bought matcha and rice crackers as souvenirs and headed back to Osaka Port. Tomorrow they are going to Kochi, and I hope they will enjoy the seared bonito there.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOsaka Port~Shin-Osaka290JPY
    Section 2OtherShin-Osaka~Kyoto1,450JPY
    Section 3TrainKyoto~Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 4TrainShijo (Kyoto Municipal)~Kyoto220JPY
    Section 5OtherKyoto~Shin-Osaka1,450JPY
    Section 6TrainShin-Osaka~Osaka Port290JPY
    Total3,940JPY

    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

    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…

  • Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima Island & Daishoin Temple

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima Island & Daishoin Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 a.m. Meet at the lobby of Hotel
    • 9:30 a.m. Take a direct ferry to Miyajima Island
    • 10:15 a.m. Arrive at Miyajima Island
    • 10:30 a.m. Visit Itsukushima Shrine
    • 11:10 a.m. Visit Daishoin Temple
    • 12:15 p.m. Lunch and time to explore the shopping street
    • 1:40 p.m. Take the direct ferry back to the city center
    • 2:25 p.m. Arrive at the pier near Peace Memorial Park and end of the tour

    Title: What Is a Private Miyajima and Daisho-in Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Since this was the second day of guiding the same guests following the previous day's city tour, our conversation flowed easily, and we talked a great deal even while traveling between locations. The guests love animals and, right after arriving, took many photos of the deer. They mentioned that after Hiroshima they would head to Nagano to visit a monkey park. The weather was excellent and unusually warm for February, so the guests were able to take their time photographing the torii gate from various spots. The guests enjoy photography and shot with both a DSLR and a phone. At Daisho-in Temple, they enjoyed the underground passage of darkness and the Henjokutsu cave, taking many photos as well. The guests shared that this trip to Japan was a special journey to celebrate a milestone, and it was an honor to guide them on such a memorable trip.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherPeace Memorial Park~Miyajima2,400JPY
    Total2,400JPY

    Hello. My name is Mari.
    I am a certified local tour guide in Hiroshima.

    I was born and grew up in Hiroshima until I entered in a university in Tokyo.
    After 6 years in Tokyo, I came back to Hiroshima because I really love my hometown and wanted to spend the rest of my life here.

    Hiroshima is very comfortable city to live in and rich in nature.
    I am so happy that I have been able to raise my kids here.

    Hiroshima is absolutely full of beautiful and historically important places and also the great food.
    I am so excited to introduce the wonderful experiences here in Hiroshima and hope you will come to love this place, too.
    Look forward to meeting you.

    Sep 26, 2026
    F1357GRpaulg
    Hiroshima and Miyajima.
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Mari was a delightful guide. We…

    Sep 29, 2026
    Matthew_T
    Do not miss this tour of Hiroshima
    Viator review: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    This was fantastic. Mari…

    Sep 28, 2026
    Passport734191
    As good as it gets in Hiroshima!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    Mari was a very…

    Jul 27, 2026
    Jen_S21
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    The highlight of our trip!
    Mari was an excellent…

  • Tokyo: Tsukiji Market

    Tokyo: Tsukiji Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 05:00 Meet in front of the Toyosu Market main gate
    • 05:00-05:30 Advance explanation of related information such as tuna catching methods, how the auction proceeds, collection methods, and the roles of primary and intermediate wholesalers
    • 05:30-06:00 Watch the tuna auction
    • 06:00-07:00 Sushi breakfast at a sushi restaurant inside Toyosu Market
    • 07:00-07:15 Travel to Tsukiji
    • 07:15-08:00 Stroll through the Tsukiji Market
    • 08:00 Disband at Tsukiji

    What Is a Private Tsukiji and Tuna Auction Morning Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan from North America. One of the guests was less comfortable with English, so whenever I gave a more detailed explanation, the other would kindly translate it into another language, and it was clear how close and warm they were together. At the tuna auction, they observed, "Everything proceeds so systematically and smoothly. This must be because they are Japanese," showing their appreciation for the Japanese temperament. Next to us was another group from Europe who had just been told at the last minute that their guide had fallen ill and could not join their tour, and they were stunned. Seeing this, my guests kindly said, "Let's listen to Toru's explanation together," and the two groups enjoyed a lively conversation while watching the auction. I stood behind the four of them and gave a live commentary of the auction from the back — a new experience that I thoroughly enjoyed as a guide. I had made a reservation at a sushi restaurant after the auction, but my guests requested that we invite the other group to join us as well, so I quickly called the restaurant to arrange two more seats, and a total of five of us enjoyed a sushi breakfast. The two groups exchanged information about sightseeing in Japan and enjoyed their conversation, and by listening, I was able to learn what kinds of things guests find interesting. At Tsukiji, a wholesaler at the Tsukiji Uogashi happened to be cutting up tuna, so I bought a little of the nakaochi and negotiated, saying, "It's fine to take a photo if we buy something, right?" The wholesaler allowed it, saying, "Just two or three shots," which delighted my guests. After visiting several shops in the outer market, since the guests liked raw oysters, I took them to a seafood shop that shucks and serves fresh oysters on the spot, and they enjoyed Akkeshi oysters. The Akkeshi oysters had a natural sweetness, and they were delighted, saying it was a flavor they could not find back home. By chance, we came across tourists who were at a loss after being suddenly abandoned by their guide, and it made me realize once again how much trouble I could cause my guests if I were to suddenly fall ill. Keeping in mind the faces of those guests who were at a loss, and the beaming smiles they showed when my guests reached out to them, I was reminded that my duty is simply to make my guests smile.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusToyosu Market / Toei Bus~Tsukiji 6-chome / Toei Bus210JPY
    Total210JPY

    Hello, I am Toru, a certified National Guide. I have been guiding since 2017, primarily in the Tokyo area, which includes Hakone, Kamakura, and Yokohama. To make your stay in Japan unforgettable, I always discuss a tour plan with my guests via email before their arrival. Please share your preferences, including the places you’d like to visit and the experiences you’d like to try during your stay in Tokyo. If this is your first visit to Japan, I’m excited to help make your time in Tokyo even more enjoyable by suggesting sample itineraries and offering travel tips.

    For more information about me, please visit my profile site.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/hello-welcome-to-japan/
    For your reference, please feel free to visit my blog, which features popular sightseeing spots and interesting experiences.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/

    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Sep 25, 2026
    robert_s
    Fantastic experience!
    Viator review: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide
    We had a tour booked with Toru…

    Sep 24, 2026
    Pamela_S
    Ask for Toru!
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our travel date for this tour…

    Sep 13, 2026
    S4579HLmaxf
    An unforgettable morning at Toyosu
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide
    Outstanding experience at the…

    Sep 7, 2026
    Victor_G
    All the temples and…
    Viator review: Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    All the temples and shrines were fantastic.…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kyoto Imperial Palace & Sanjusangendo

    Kyoto in One Day: Kyoto Imperial Palace & Sanjusangendo

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:45 Meet at JR Kyoto Station
    • 10:10 to 10:50 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 11:20 to 12:10 Ginkaku-ji
    • 12:40 to 13:10 Gion
    • 13:30 to 14:30 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 14:50 to 15:20 Sanjusangendo
    • 15:45 Disband at JR Kyoto Station

    What Can You See in a 6-Hour Private Kyoto Tour from Osaka? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. The area they come from is home to many semiconductor manufacturing plants, and one of them works in that industry. Since I was also in the same industry during my working years and had visited the region many times, it brought back many fond memories for me. The guests came from Osaka, and Kyoto was their only day in the city, so we visited five of the popular spots mentioned above over six hours. I believe they enjoyed the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto~Imadegawa260JPY
    Section 2BusKarasuma Imadegawa (Subway Imadegawa Station)/Kyoto City Bus~Ginkaku-ji-michi/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3BusGinkaku-ji-michi/Kyoto City Bus~Gion/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4TrainKiyomizu-michi/Kyoto City Bus~Museum Sanjusangendo-mae/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 5BusMuseum Sanjusangendo-mae/Kyoto City Bus~Kyoto230JPY
    Total1,180JPY

    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 !!

    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…