Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji-jingumae Station & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji-jingumae Station & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00　Depart from Tokyo Station, Marunouchi, North Exit, and start walking to the Imperial Palace tour
    • 13:15-14:10　Tour around the Imperial Palace, guide through the East Gardens.
    • 14:50　Arrive at Meiji-jingumae Station
    • 15:00-16:00　Meiji Shrine tour
    • 16:10-17:00　Shopping along Takeshita Street.
    • 18:00　Arrive at Hotel JAL Kannai

    Title: What's a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo's Imperial Palace and Meiji Shrine Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. Their accommodation was located in Kannai, which is about one hour each way from Tokyo, so I explained that a four-hour tour would spend about two hours just on travel. As a result, they decided to come to Tokyo Station instead. From there, we walked to the Imperial Palace and the East Gardens. Since the guests were interested in Japanese gardens, we spent a good deal of time exploring them. At Meiji Shrine, there were many questions of a religious nature, and the guests showed a strong interest in comparative culture. The guests had been looking forward to shopping on Takeshita Street. When I suggested that we part ways there, they said they had no idea how to get back to their hotel in Kannai and asked if I could guide them there, offering to pay an extension fee. Without charging any additional fee, I escorted the guests to their hotel in Kannai. They were very grateful.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOtemachi (Tokyo)～Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku～Kamata320JPY
    Total530JPY

    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.

    Request Booking

    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 Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • Depart from hotel at 15:00 ~ 15:20 Fushimi Inari ~ 17:00 Yasaka Pagoda ~ 18:00 Yasui Konpiragu Shrine ~ 18:30 Gion Stroll ~ 19:00 Disband

    What Is a Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Yasaka Pagoda, and Gion The guests were a lovely group visiting from Europe. Everyone seemed very fond of Japanese culture and asked many questions. At Fushimi Inari, they bought several good-luck charms and drew omikuji fortunes. They also enjoyed trying the Omokaru-ishi stone. They took many photos not only of the torii tunnel but also of the bamboo grove and pond on the mountainside. When we reached the next stop, the Yasaka Pagoda, the moon had risen above it, and the guests were moved by how beautiful it looked. At Yasui Konpiragu, some of the guests passed through the hole beneath the stone. They asked about the history of the shrine and why it is considered a power spot. One of the guests remarked that they were rather superstitious. After we walked a short distance and I guided them along Hanamikoji Street, they said they would walk on their own to a kaiseki restaurant, Kinmata, near Nishiki Koji, so we parted ways there.

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

    Tour Report by JOY

    Hello. It is very nice to meet you. My name is Etsuko Nakaba. I am based in the Kansai Area, which includes popular sightseeing spots
    such as the old capital Kyoto with many old temples, Nara, which is well known for vowing deer, and Osaka-the city of gourmet, entertainment and commerce.

    The Kansai area was the center of Japanese culture, as this is the place where the capital of Japan was located in the olden times.
    I was born and raised in a historical city Kobe, which is also in the Kansai area.　The city is famous for its port and old residences
    of merchants from Europe and Asia, as it opened its port for forreign trade about 150 years ago.
    It is also well known for the premium quality beef-Kobe Beef.
    The melting in the mouth texture is what every tourist would like to try. It is also one of the best 3 Japanese sake producing spots.
    Sake’s refined taste goes with not only Japanese traditional quisine, but also various dishes from around the worldaround.
    I am certain of its good match with Kobe beef. Some sake breweries show traditional sake making process, which are intriguing.
    It is also renowned for being home to one of the 3 oldest hot springs in Japan, Arima.The color of the water is gold,
    as it contains a lot of iron. It was frequented by a famous warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi 500 years ago.

    I love my hometown Kobe; however, I also lived in Tokyo for 20 years. So, l know the allure
    of the representative two cities o feastern and western Japan, Tokyo and Osaka.
    As a matter of course, there are many hidden gems in each area, in the northern, middle, or southern Japan.
    For example, Himeji City, which is to the west of Kobe city is renowned for its 400 year old castle. which is a world cultural heritage site.
    It was built by a shogun, the leader of samaurai- feudal warriors and the de facto leader of the nation.
    The original structure of the castle transfers us back to the olden times governed by samurai.
    Though some people believe that they still exist, the class was abolished aobut 150 years ago due to the drastic political reform called “Meiji Restoration”.
    If you would like to, I could take you to the fascilities where you can see authentic samurai’s armor and swords.
    Ninja or secret agents, who served feudal lords, do not exist any more either. A ninja museum in Shiga prefecture was a residence of ninja before.
    It is not rennovated for the service, so you can enjoy the complicated interior with some contraptions to defeat the intruders.

    Japan has distinct four seasons, which makes this country more attractive. Each season has its own attractions.
    Spring and autumn are ideal for sightseeing, as the climate is mild and you can enjoy beautiful scenery such as cherry blossoms or autumn foliage.
    Between summer and autumn, there is the rainy season which lasts for about a month. This season feartures hydrangeas.
    A historical city Kamakura, where the first samurai government started, is embraced by a serene atomosphere in June, as the combination of the
    old temples and the delicate beauty of hydrangeas in the overcast or rainy weather is the essence of Japanese beauty.

    The southern island Kyushu was also a gate for overseas trade. Okinawa also has its own unique and rich culture, as it was not a part of Japan in the past.
    It was an independent country called ” Ryukyu Kingdom.”in the past.
    The beauty of the ocean and the unique culture and food have been captivating the hearts of the people all over the world.

    Like these, Japan is filled with historical and natural beauty.Furthermore, traditional Japanese quisene is an intangible world cultural heritage.
    It would be an honor if I could introduce you even one of them.
    I am thrilled to meet you and iintroduce the beauty of Japan to you.

    Request Booking

    Jun 17, 2026
    Jason_W
    Viator review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely amazing tour and guide
    This was the perfect Kyoto tour for…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Malcolm_S
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Custom Private Tour of Kyoto
    Our tour guide,…

    May 29, 2026
    Andrew_B
    Viator review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Etsuko was an exceptional…
    Etsuko was an exceptional tour guide. She catered…

    May 21, 2026
    Claire_G
    Viator review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Day Trip to Kyoto
    We could not have got around Kyoto in…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Shrine & Kinkakuji Temple

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Shrine & Kinkakuji Temple

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30AM meeting in the lobby of Hotel Kyoto
    • 9:30-9:45 walk to Kyoto Station
    • 9:45-9:50 JR train from Kyoto to Inari
    • 9:50-10:40 Fushimi Inari Shrine
    • 11:15-11:20 JR train from Inari to Kyoto
    • 11:42-11:59 JR train from Kyoto to Saga-Arashiyama
    • 11:59-12:10 walk
    • 12:10-1:00PM Lunch at Ramen Arashiyama-Chikurintei
    • 1:00-1:45 stroll in Bamboo Grove and Tenryuji
    • 1:45-2:00 Walk
    • 2:02-2:09 JR train from Saga-Arashiyama to Enmachi
    • 2:15-2:30 Bus
    • 2:40-3:30 Kinkakuji Temple
    • 3:30 End of the Tour

    What Should You See on a First-Time Private Kyoto Day Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. Since it was their first time in Japan and in Kyoto, they wanted to see the must-visit spots, so I set an itinerary covering Fushimi Inari, Arashiyama, and Kinkaku-ji. Because some of the guests had dietary needs, I chose a favorite ramen restaurant in Arashiyama that offers a vegan menu for lunch. One of the guests wanted to have a Kobe beef set, and everyone ordered different dishes, so even though we all had "ramen," each person enjoyed a completely different meal. This reminded me once again how important it is to be able to accommodate such a variety of ingredients and preferences when serving international visitors. After the delicious ramen, we took a walk through the nearby bamboo grove and the grounds of Tenryu-ji as a bit of post-meal exercise. They were deeply impressed by the bamboo grove. As it was the middle day of a three-day weekend, there were many Japanese tourists as well, and Fushimi Inari, the bamboo grove, and Kinkaku-ji were all crowded with visitors. In particular, the bus heading from Enmachi to Kinkaku-ji was completely packed, but all of us managed to squeeze in and board. We were blessed with good weather throughout, and Kinkaku-ji glittered in the evening sun, with everyone holding their breath as they took photos. I heard they wrote a review right away (though "Kyoto" ended up as "Tokyo"…), and I was glad they seemed to return home with good memories (they moved to Narita the next morning and departed in the evening).

    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 2TrainInari～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 3TrainSaga-Arashiyama～Enmachi180JPY
    Section 4BusNishinokyo-Enmachi (JR Enmachi Station)／Kyoto City Bus～Kinkakuji-michi／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total800JPY

    Tour Report by Nabet

    “He was easy to talk to, friendly, and knowledgeable and even made sure we successfully navigated the public transit back to our hotel. If we are ever back in Kyoto, we’d love to book a tour with him again! ”

    “At every side we got an indepth explanation to any minor detail and every question we asked was answered and explained really well. It felt like a relaxing and wholesome walk through Kyoto even while it was pouring rain. We can absolutely recommend choosing Nabet!”

    “Nabet’s English is just perfect, he knows the way around sights, little streets and hidden secrets, he is very authentic…just a perfect tour!”

    Here are just a few of the many kind reviews I’ve received from the more than 100 groups I’ve guided through Kyoto and other cities.

    I’m deeply thankful for the chance to connect with my guests and contribute to a memorable tour experience!

    +Current Occupation+
    • Associate Professor specially appointed for Entrepreneurship Education and University-Based Startup Support
    • Management Consultant for SMEs and startups
    • Government-Licensed Interpreter Guide

    +Hobbies+
    Travel, music, sake, ice hockey, squash, watching soccer

    Request Booking

    May 29, 2026
    Tamara M
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kyoto bei Nacht – faszinierende Einblicke in Kultur und Spiritualität
    Ich…

    Oct 21, 2025
    Jana_C
    4-hour private tour with Nabet was ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
    Viator review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing experience…

    Oct 16, 2025
    987kayeh
    Knowledgeable guide who was will to respond to our multiple questions
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Thankyou…

    Oct 16, 2025
    janiec555
    Significant sites in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nabet is an excellent guide. He explained Japanese…

  • 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)12:00 Meet at the hotel, then take the subway to Nijo Castle
    • 2)12:30-13:30 Nijo Castle, then take the subway to Nishiki Market
    • 3)13:50-14:10 Nishiki Market, then walk to Pontocho (Pontocho Park)
    • 4)14:20-14:50 Pontocho (Pontocho Park), then take a break
    • 5)14:50-15:20 Break at a cafe, then take a taxi to Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 6)15:40-16:30 Kiyomizu-dera Temple, then to Yasaka Pagoda
    • 7)16:40-17:10 Yasaka Pagoda, Ghibli Shop, Yasaka Shrine, then to Gion
    • 8)17:20-17:50 Gion Kobu, Shirakawa area, then say goodbye

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather was cold that day, with sudden rain at times. The guests seemed to enjoy the wall paintings and other artworks at Nijo Castle. Since they followed a vegan diet, they were unable to eat anything at Nishiki Market. There had been a request beforehand to visit Pontocho Park, and when I asked the reason, they said they had happened to come across it on social media. I explained that Pontocho is one of the traditional geisha districts, and we took a break at a nearby cafe. I guided them to a cafe that serves vegan dishes, which they were very happy about. At Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of the guests tried lifting Benkei's iron staff. I also had the guests ring the orin bell and take part in pouring water over the Kannon statue while getting wet. Afterward, we stopped by a Ghibli shop, where they purchased several items. At Yasaka Shrine, I taught them how to worship at a shrine, and they made their prayers. We then walked through the Gion and Shirakawa areas, and by around 17:50 I asked where they would like to go. They said they wanted to have dinner around that area, so we parted ways there. I believe they enjoyed the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto～Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijojo-mae～Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)220JPY
    Total480JPY

    Tour Report by Hiro

    Nice to meet you.
    My name is Hiroki Muramoto, please call me Hiro.
    Hiro in Japanese means large or big. Although I’m neither large nor big, you can call me Hiro. How are you doing ?
    I lived in a city nearby Kobe city. Do you know Kobe ? Kobe is famous for Kobe beef and pearl. If you have not yet had Kobe beef, you should taste the authentic Kobe beef. It is very satisfying taste. But I have recently moved to a city in Kyoto prefecture, so I can be in Kyoto city in about one hour. By the way, I am a family of four. I have a son and a daughter. My son now works in Tokyo. I sometimes go to Tokyo to see him. Tokyo is a huge city, but too crowded, so it seems not to suit me. I seem to be better suited to a small city than a big one. Where do you live in ? How many families do you have ? If you like, please tell me about them. I worked in the quality assurance department of a pharmaceutical company and visited the factories of foreign affiliated companies, so I became interested in foreign cultures and obtained a qualification as an interpreter guide in 2015.

    I have been a guide for about eight years. During that time, I have guided in Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara, Kochi and so on, although I could do little guiding work between 2020 and 2022 due to COVID-19. However, since last year, my guiding work has been back! So, I am happy to be able to meet different people again. My hobby is travelling, but sadly, I am not in a position to travel abroad easily at the moment due to the very weak yen, and I hope to travel abroad again when the situation eases a bit more.
    How many countries have you been to so far ? Which countries have you liked so far? Another hobby is watching sports – baseball and football. Do you like the baseball ? Do you know Otani, Japanese baseball player ? He has joined Dodgers in Los Angeles this year. I look forward to another successful year for Otani.

    By the way, what interests you in Japan? Food, history, scenery ? As far as tourist attractions are concerned, famous places are too crowded. If you like, I also would like to show you some less crowded places. Are you interested in experiencing something ? If you want to experience something, I can suggest an experience plan for you. If so, please contact me as early as possible. As for food, what kind of food do you like? There are many kinds of delicious food. Of course, you can get good food in fine restaurants, but you can also get good food in downtown restaurants. If you like alcohol, why don’t you try Japanese sake? It can range from light and fragrant to rich in flavor, so you’re sure to find a Japanese sake you like.

    My motto is “Be content with life.” However, I find myself complaining all the time. If you like, please tell me your motto. I want to treat all guests who visit Japan with the spirit of “Treasure every encounter” and guide them so that they can enjoy themselves and have good memories of Japan.
    You only live once (YOLO). So, I also want to enjoy it with you.

    I look forward to meeting you.
    Best regard.

    Request Booking

    Nov 27, 2024
    Julianne_A
    Book it
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was a wonderful experience with our guide Hiro. He…

  • Okayama in Half a Day: Okayama Ekimae Sta & Kurashiki-Bikanchiku

    Okayama in Half a Day: Okayama Ekimae Sta & Kurashiki-Bikanchiku

    Okayama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:13 JR Okayama Station [Meet at Shinkansen SAKURA 544 Platform]
    • 　 on foot
    • 11:30 Okayama Ekimae Sta.
    • by Tramway
    • 11:40 Shiroshita Sta.
    • on foot
    • 12:00~12:40 Okayama Castle
    • 12:50~13:30 Korakuen Garden
    • by taxi (2 taxis)
    • 13:40 JR Okayama Station
    • 13:50 JR Okayama Station
    • by train
    • 14:07 JR Kurashiki Station
    • on foot
    • 14:30~15:40 Kurashiki-Bikanchiku (including lunch)
    • 　on foot
    • 16:00 JR Kurashiki Station
    • 16:02 JR Kurashiki Station
    • by train
    • 16:21 JR Okayama Station
    • 16:25 JR Okayama Station [Say goodbye]

    What Is a Private Okayama Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Okayama Castle, Korakuen, and Kurashiki The tour was a guided visit around Okayama, covering Okayama Castle, Korakuen Garden, and the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, for a group of guests. Some of the guests were visiting from Africa, and the others were from the Middle East; although they lived far apart, they had been longtime friends. The different parts of the group arrived in Japan in October, meeting up together, and were scheduled to leave Japan in November. This group came to Okayama as part of a larger group, while the others visited Naoshima. During their time in Japan, their itinerary took them around Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Okayama, Osaka, and back to Tokyo. Some of the guests had a little difficulty walking, so we unavoidably skipped the stairs at Okayama Castle and the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, which is a bit far from the station, and instead spent the time comfortably in another way. The rest of the guests were in good health and we were able to enjoy the tour together. The group's leader could speak English, while the others were not always fully comfortable with it, so the leader interpreted my English explanations into their own language. We were blessed with good weather and had a pleasant tour. Everyone was very friendly, which made it a wonderful experience.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOkayama Ekimae～Shiroshita (Okayama Prefecture)160JPY
    Section 2TrainOkayama～Kurashiki330JPY
    Section 3TrainKurashiki～Okayama330JPY
    Total820JPY

    Tour Report by Kaji

    Hello. My name is Hisao Kaji. I was born in 1945. I was raised in Takamatsu City from 3 years old. So, I have been living in Takamatsu for around 75 years. I believe I know Takamatsu City and the Kagawa prefecture area very well. If you come to Takamatsu, Kagawa I think you can enjoy your tour with me. I started a Government Licensed Guide in 2019. So, I have been a licensed guide for about 5 years. My favorite destinations are Naoshima, Teshima, Ritsurin Garden, the top of Mt. Yashima and so on. I always show you an itinerary about one month before your tour date, and I will accept any questions, other favorite places you want to visit. Communicating with you, I would like to accommodate your request for your tour. I always listen to NPR on the internet to know how the world is moving and improve my English. I like conversation based upon it with my life. I stayed in the USA for 8 months for a Power Systems Engineering Course conducted by General Electric in New York State when I was 28 years old. I sometimes talk about my memory of those days with the guests. I am very happy to guide tourists because I can see the guests become happy and enjoy themselves when I am guiding better. Nothing is more wonderful than that. I welcome your visit to Takamatsu City and Kagawa Prefecture. I believe you will have a pleasant time through my guide.

    Request Booking

    Apr 19, 2026
    2Pippin2
    Tripadvisor review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A day to remember
    Perfect day! Our tour guide, Kaji,
    added so…

    Oct 23, 2025
    C
    Calli_C
    This was a great day tour…
    Viator review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was a great day…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Vanessa_A
    Lovely day on Naoshima Island
    Viator review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    It was great to relax and leave…

    Jun 1, 2025
    Pamela_F
    Highly recommend the half…
    Viator review: Okayama Half-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Highly recommend the half day tour and our…

  • Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto
    • 10:25-11:00 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 11:45-12:15 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 12:20-13:20 Lunch (Egao Gohan Coco Hana)
    • 13:45-13:55 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Path
    • 14:30-15:00 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 15:10-15:40 Nijo Castle
    • 16:00 Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto

    What Does a Private Full-Day Kyoto Tour with a Licensed Guide Look Like? A Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. The itinerary was: Hotel → Fushimi Inari Taisha → Kinkaku-ji → lunch (Egao Gohan Coco Hana) → the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove → Nijo Castle → Hotel. Originally the Kyoto Imperial Palace was also planned, but since the group walked at a relaxed pace, I reduced the sightseeing spots to four and adjusted the schedule to be more leisurely. At each destination the guests were moved by the beauty of the scenery, viewing individual landscapes and structures from various angles and taking photographs. For lunch, since one member of the group followed a vegan diet, I took them to "Egao Gohan Coco Hana," and they were very satisfied. Everyone had come from North America, and we had a lively conversation about a sports championship that had been won the previous day. We also talked about the wildfires that occurred there earlier this year, the current state of public safety and gun culture, health insurance in Japan and North America, real estate prices, and comparisons regarding retirement. The guests mentioned that many people around them in their daily lives had traveled to Japan, and that virtually all of them had become repeat visitors. As reasons for this, they cited the excellent public safety, the cleanliness of the streets, and the efficiency of the railway system.

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

    Tour Report by Masaki

    My name is Masaki Kitagawa, a male in the middle of 50s living in Kyoto with my wife, son and three cats. While working for a local energy company on weekdays, I’ve been a tour guide on weekends since 2019 and enjoy interacting with people coming from different worlds. It is my great pleasure to help you make your excursion time-efficient and pleasant even during the high seasons in Kyoto. Considering your interests, preferences and priorities, I want to design and make your journey fruitful one. I’m thrilled to be contacted from you. Let’s explore Kyoto !

    Request Booking

    Jun 3, 2026
    Nikki G
    Wonderful experience with a great guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Masaki was our guide through…

    May 24, 2026
    Pamela_C
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Perfect day in Kyoto with the best guide!…

    May 4, 2026
    TravelersHigh77
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent English speaking guide for Kyoto
    Masaki was s wonderful and patient…

    Nov 29, 2025
    vsairamkumar
    Kyoto guided tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had great fun exploring Kyoto with Masaki San.…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Gion-Shijo & Nishiki Market and Gion area

    Kyoto in One Day: Gion-Shijo & Nishiki Market and Gion area

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet up @ Hotel Kyoto
    • 9:07-9:17 Gion-Shijo → Fushimi-Inari　240 yen　Keihan
    • 9:30-10:30 Sightseeing at Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 10:38-11:13 Inari → Saga-Arashiyama　240 yen　JR
    • 11:30-12:20 Lunch @ Gyatei
    • 12:30-13:50 Sightseeing in the Arashiyama area (Tenryu-ji, Bamboo Grove Path, Kimono Forest, Togetsukyo Bridge, etc.)
    • 14:14-14:32 Arashiyama → Karasuma　240 yen　Hankyu
    • 14:40-15:00 Stroll around Nishiki Market and Gion area
    • 15:15 Disband @ Hotel Kyoto

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Full-Day Kyoto Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Arashiyama, and Gion The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. I took them to Fushimi Inari, and even in the early morning hours they were surprised by the crowds. Next we moved to Arashiyama, where they enjoyed a set meal while checking the menu at a restaurant, and then strolled through the Kimono Forest, Tenryu-ji Temple, and the Bamboo Grove Path. They took many photos in the gardens and the bamboo grove. We crossed the Togetsukyo Bridge and took the Hankyu train, then walked through Nishiki Market. Taking a slight detour, we also walked through the Gion Shirakawa area and Hanamikoji Street before returning to the Hotel.

    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 2TrainInari～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama (Hankyu Line)～Karasuma240JPY
    Total720JPY

    Tour Report by AndyMurao

    Hello! I am Andy Murao. I love this job as I can visit various destinations with the people from all over the world. I am always thinking that I could help you know more about Japan and understand the attractiveness of Japan.

    I would like to provide a tour in accordance with your request and preference. Please let me know what you want to see, eat, experience, etc. and then I will propose a schedule based on them.

    There is one point to note. I like walking very much, so I might be a guide who forces you to take long walks.

    I look forward to attending you in Japan.

    Best regards,

    Andy Murao

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    Jul 13, 2026
    webstere2025
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent
    Andy(Atsushi) was great and communicated with us beforehand about our…

    Jun 21, 2026
    Catherine_D
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in Osaka
    Andy was great . On time and patience…

    Jun 6, 2026
    eyeessess
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour!
    Andy Murao was an amazing and wonderful tour guide.…

    Jun 5, 2026
    Janice_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 9hr Private Tour (Kobe Dep. ) with Licensed Guide
    Great tour of Kyoto
    It was a good tour…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Shimbashi station & Shibuya station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Shimbashi station & Shibuya station

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:40 Shimbashi station (starts early)
    • 10:00 Asakusa
    • 11:15 Asakusa station
    • 11:40 Tokyo station
    • 12:10 Imperial Palace
    • 13:00 Ohtemachi station
    • 13:30 Shibuya station
    • 14:00 Shimbashi Yurikamome station to drop off

    What Are Common Conversation Topics on a Private Tour in Japan? A Licensed Guide's Report 1. We build houses on the landfilled, too. 2. I drove 40 minutes each way. The person took a bus and a train for 35 minutes to work in schools in North America. 3. The person had saved money over the years to travel while still able to walk. 4. 100-year war. History repeats itself. 5. Shibuya crossing is equivalent to Times Square. 6. We have bamboo, too, but we must cut the top off, they spread and go wild. 7. We don't have problems with monkeys or bears, we have deer. 8. (Someone is watching your house while you are cruising?) No one cares. Family lives about 5 minutes' drive away to pick up mail. No one cares while we are here. 9. We have 50 states; how many do you have? 10. We have two houses, very large, and stairs, we don't need them. The guests have grandchildren. I made a will. You have to have a good lawyer in North America. 11. Scam? – we have the same problem. A relative received a call saying "Hello grandma, I'm your grandson" asking for money. The person recognized it and said "I don't have a grandson," even though there are grandchildren.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShimbashi～Asakusa220JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Tokyo330JPY
    Section 3SubwayOhtemachi (Tokyo)～Shibuya210JPY
    Section 4SubwayShibuya～Shimbashi180JPY
    Total940JPY

    Tour Report by Hideaki

    Hello, welcome to Japan you all.

    I’m a resident of Ebina, Kanagawa, and am a national government licensed guide and interpreter.
    I enjoy showing travelers both the new and old of central Honshu, primarily Tokyo and Kanagawa, ranging from Meiji Shrine, Edo Castle, Tsukiji Outer Market, Ueno, Asakusa, Ginza, Ginza Sky Farmstead, Shibuya Zebra Crossings, Yokohama, Kamakura, to Hakone, not to mention Mt. Fuji, and sharing views with my guests on Japanese homes and their surroundings, Japan’s labor productivity and labor market, among others.

    I also enjoy introducing travelers to Japanese culture through home visits with Japanese families, touring Zen temples, and explaining the intricacies of Japanese culture.

    I am happy to arrange personalized tours to other places of your interest.
    I am making the most of my long experience as a foreign language education service, escorting VIPs at the Sony showroom in Ginza, Tokyo.
    I also offer services to help families and individuals relocating to Japan with immigration VISA applications.

    My hobbies are movies, strolling along the river in my neighborhood and am a novice at la lingua Italiano.
    Let’s enjoy touring together, shall we?

    Request Booking

    Jul 16, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Private guide – a very good experience
    We spent a half…

    Jun 21, 2026
    CJW324
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Guided Tour & Tablet Guided Origami Experience
    Unforgettable day in Tokyo with Hideaki — incredible with…

    May 20, 2026
    olgalA154QQ
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience with an excellent guide
    Great experience! Our guide WADA Hideaki…

    Apr 19, 2026
    Sightseer57474900023
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hideaki’s perfect first day in Tokyo!
    Hideaki was an incredible guide and…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 13:00 Meet up@Conrad Tokyo (1-9-1 Higashi-Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo)
    • ↓20 min by car
    • 2) 13:20 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace <Hirakawamon Gate→Ninomaru Garden→Otemon Gate>
    • ↓20 min by car
    • 3) 14:30 Yanesen <Nezu Shrine→Snake Road→Yanaka Ginza Shopping Street>
    • ↓20 min by car
    • 4) 16:10 Asakusa <Sensoji Temple・Nakamise Street>
    • ↓20 min by car
    • 5) 17:00 Disband@Sancha Shobo Co., Ltd. (1-1 Kanda-Jimbocho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo)

    Title: What's a Private Car Tour of Tokyo Like on a National Holiday? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private car tour of Tokyo for a group visiting from North America. The number of participants turned out to be one fewer than expected, which became clear on the day itself. Before the tour, the guests had requested the use of a vehicle they had already arranged, as well as a drop-off at their hotel. Because the tour took place on a national holiday, time was limited, so we decided to skip Meiji Shrine and instead focused on other main highlights along with a recommendation to visit the Yanesen area. Shortly before the tour, the guests contacted me with a new request to be dropped off at the Jimbocho secondhand bookstore district, so I confirmed with the driver assigned for the day whether this change was possible and then shared the information with the guests. On the day, I confirmed the itinerary with the driver about 20 minutes before the meeting time and then successfully met the guests. Inside the vehicle, they kindly shared a variety of topics, including the recent visit of a U.S. president to Japan (they did not know of the figure skater Ilia Malinin), a story about meeting a relative working at a U.S. base camp near a Self-Defense Forces base in Zama City, and the TV drama "Shogun" (both the 1980s version and the latest version). They had arrived in Japan just two days earlier and planned to visit not only Tokyo but also Kyoto (both the city and Uji). Even though it was afternoon, the wind was a little cold, and the guests mentioned that they had struggled to prepare for the trip. Before long, we arrived at the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace and I guided them there. We got back into the vehicle across from the Palace Hotel and headed to Yanesen. On the way, we passed through Akihabara, and the guests seemed surprised by the crowds, so I provided commentary as appropriate. After guiding them to Nezu Shrine and two other shrines, we walked along Hebi-michi (the "snake path") to Yanaka Ginza. One of the guests tried to buy some light snacks such as yakitori, but gave up due to the long line. However, they successfully got a "Takahashi croquette (with minced chicken)" from Kyushudo and the group enjoyed eating it together. (Since we had kept the driver waiting a while in Yanesen, I bought a croquette myself and gave it to them as a gift so they would drive comfortably.) On the way to Asakusa, we passed through Ueno and Kappabashi with commentary as appropriate. Asakusa was less crowded than expected, so I gave a quick tour of Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise-dori (our stay in Asakusa was within 15 minutes). The guests said they found the contrast between the three areas interesting, which was reassuring. After getting back into the vehicle across from Nitenmon, the driver kindly took us past the front of Kanda Myojin Shrine, and I provided commentary as appropriate (as anticipated). Toward the end of the tour, the guests were understandably a little tired. Looking for an interesting topic, I managed to finish telling the story of the burial mound of Taira no Masakado's head, its associated curse, and its connection to GHQ, just as we passed through Ochanomizu and arrived at the Jimbocho secondhand bookstore district five minutes before the end time. We took a photo together with the driver and parted ways with smiles.

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

    Tour Report by Tachi

    Hi! I’m a local guide in Tokyo and have been working as a licensed tour guide for almost 10 years. I love helping guests discover the “real Japan” beyond the guidebooks. I enjoy showing guests both famous sights and places that many tourists miss. My tours are based on your interests and can include not only famous sightseeing spots, but also local neighborhoods, culture, history, and everyday life in Japan. I also help guests enjoy Japanese cultural activities and make communication easier. If you’d like vegan or gluten-free meals, let me help you find suitable restaurants in Tokyo. If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, please feel free to let me know in advance. I look forward to showing you around Tokyo!

    Request Booking

    Jun 19, 2026
    Daniel_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 would do again!
    Our guide, Tachi was incredibly accommodating, friendly, and…

    May 24, 2026
    Meander63637687943
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Japanese Garden Lover’s Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour guide Tachi is the best!
    A most enjoyable and…

    May 19, 2026
    Jai_K
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    I would definitely…
    I would definitely recommend this tour. Our guide Tachi…

    May 5, 2026
    Gary33556
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour of the highlights of Tokyo
    Tachi was our guide. What…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Shimbashi & Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Shimbashi & Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Tsukiji Local Food & Culture Half-Day Tour, Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet at hotel lobby
    • 10:00 Shimbashi (SL Square → Old Railway Station → Caretta Shiodome Observation Deck → Nittele Big Clock) → Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:00 Ginza (Kabukiza / from car window / → Ginza Place → Kyukyodo)
    • 12:30 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 12:55 Disband at Marion Crepe

    Title: What Is a Private Tour of Tsukiji, Ginza, and Harajuku Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Because it was a market holiday, I focused the tour on shops that were open. Entering the Tsukiji Outer Market from Namiyoke Street, the guests first spotted and enjoyed wagyu skewers and fatty tuna sushi, quickly fulfilling one of their main goals for visiting Japan. After that, they enjoyed shine muscat grapes and candied fruit, stamped a Tsukiji stamp onto a paper they had brought, purchased personalized chopsticks on Nishi Street, and then moved on to Ginza. I also explained the origins of Tsukiji as well as Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple and Namiyoke Shrine, but they did not seem particularly interested. At Kyukyodo in Ginza, the guests purchased a stamp book and a goshuin book, and right away stamped the metro stamp at Ginza Station. One of the guests seemed very pleased at being able to press three types at once, though what they had stamped was actually the goshuin book. Since the group gave off an atmosphere of not minding, I chose not to insist and left it as it was. Since the guests wanted to eat crepes without fail while traveling, I changed the originally planned Asakusa to Harajuku. Along the way, the main focus of their interest seemed to be where to go next rather than historical explanations. The liveliness of Takeshita Street was just as they had hoped. As we walked, I pointed out a dog cafe, and one of the guests said, "That's right, we also wanted to go to a hedgehog cafe and an otter cafe." The guests were also satisfied with a Nutella-only crepe that one of them particularly wanted.

    Click here for more details: Tsukiji Local Food & Culture Half-Day Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAkasaka-mitsuke～Shimbashi180JPY
    Section 2SubwayShiodome～Tsukiji Market180JPY
    Section 3BusTsukiji 3-chome / Toei Bus～Ginza 4-chome / Toei Bus210JPY
    Section 4SubwayGinza～Shibuya210JPY
    Section 5TrainShibuya～Harajuku150JPY
    Total930JPY

    Tour Report by Youko

    I’m Youko, a female guide. I saw your request for a guied tour on the notice board of JGA. It’s my great pleasure to show you around the city of Tokyo on the day your requested.

    I live in Saitama, about an hour north of Tokyo. My two children are grown up and are mother and father now. I enjoy grandma life here.

    Tokyo has so many wonderful sightseeing spots and attractions, art facilities, and parks. Please let me know your interests and what you would like to visit/ see/ do/ eat/ try this time. I’m so excited to start planning our itinerary and love to know your expectations.

    I look forward to hearing from you soon.

    with best regards,

    Request Booking

    May 12, 2026
    Terri_B
    Viator review: Tsukiji Food and Toyosu Market with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fantastic!!
    Had an issue finding Yoko but called her and figured…

    Mar 19, 2030
    Ayanna_W
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Like Exploring Tokyo with a Friend
    Yoko was…