Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Shinjuku Golden Gai & Shibuya Crossing

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Shinjuku Golden Gai & Shibuya Crossing

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 13:20 Shinjuku Golden Gai
    • 14:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:30 Shibuya Crossing
    • 16:10 Tour ends at Shibuya

    Title: What's a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Yurikamome, Shinjuku, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting from Oceania who had arrived late at night that morning due to a flight delay. They planned to stay in Tokyo for a few days before heading to Kyoto. They wanted to learn in detail about how to use SUICA and the Tokyo subway system. We started by taking the "Yurikamome" line from Toyosu to Shimbashi, where the guests enjoyed the spectacular waterfront views. After that, based on one of the guests' wish to see the Godzilla statue, we headed to the long-awaited Shinjuku Golden Gai. Along the way, I explained about Japanese vending machines, which impressed the guests greatly. They were delighted to learn that you can pay with SUICA, that warm beverages are available depending on the season, and that the prices are low with a wide variety of choices — they felt this alone was uniquely Japanese. The guests were very pleased with the taste of the "udon" they had in Shinjuku. At Meiji Shrine, there was a busy atmosphere with preparations underway for the New Year's first shrine visit. The guests were very interested in Japanese Shinto and asked many questions. I explained various things and they seemed to understand, but they wanted to learn even more deeply. At the final stop, the Shibuya Crossing, they were amazed at the enormous crowds. Since they wanted to buy various uniquely Japanese items, I introduced them to the main shops, explained the way back to their hotel, and ended the tour at this spot.

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

    Tour Report by Atsushi

    Hello and welcome to Tokyo!

    I have been working for business with American companies for many years. I have many experiences guiding customers from around the world in Japan and taking Japanese customers to the USA and Europe.

    I now have a national license as a guiding interpreter, and I want to introduce the unique gigantic city of Tokyo and the traditional Japanese culture, which is not shown in the guidebooks, to people worldwide who are interested in it. In addition, I want to introduce various Japanese foods you can enjoy only in Japan.
    Unique experiences such as the Sumo Training Viewing and Tea Ceremony are optionally available.
    Depending on your preference and itinerary, I can guide you in Tokyo, Kamakura, and Hakone so that you can enjoy your time in Japan.

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    Aug 18, 2026
    Heather_C
    Private tour for 4 in Tokyo – highly recommend
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide…

    Aug 8, 2026
    victoriahD2588SK
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    An action packed visit to Hakone!
    Atsushi was an…

    Jul 26, 2026
    Kevin_B
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Highly recommend this tour for first time…

    Jun 22, 2026
    Ashish_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best Tour for a Short Visit
    Atsushi-san was an incredibly well-researched and…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Market & Nezu / Yanaka

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Market & Nezu / Yanaka

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Hotel (Shiodome)
    • 10:35 – 11:15 Tsukiji Market (by taxi)
    • 11:25 Hinode Pier
    • 12:15 – 13:55 Asakusa
    • 14:35 – 16:30 Nezu / Yanaka

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Tokyo's Tsukiji, Asakusa, and Yanaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They had stayed in Kyoto for about three months over a decade ago, and had spent about a week in Hokkaido before coming here, but this was almost their first time in Tokyo. As it was the year-end period, some parks and facilities were closed, so I conducted a preliminary interview and planned a route covering Tsukiji, Asakusa, Yanaka, and Nezu. They mentioned that they would do shopping in areas like Shibuya and Shinjuku on their own on a later day. The guests wanted to take a boat to Asakusa, so making it in time for the boat's departure was the most challenging part of the day. The distance from the hotel to Tsukiji was not too far, but we took a taxi and first explored Tsukiji. Although the stay was only about 30 to 40 minutes and the market was extremely crowded, they managed to enjoy some sweets and tuna. Since we successfully caught the 11:35 boat from Hinode Pier, we were able to see everything more calmly from Asakusa onward. The ningyo-yaki did not seem to suit their taste, but they enjoyed everything else. The old houses of the Yanaka-Nezu-Sendagi area reminded them of Kyoto, where they had stayed before, and they seemed intrigued by the New Year decorations and kadomatsu displayed ahead of the new year. I guided them to Nezu Shrine, Yanaka Cemetery (including the grave of Tokugawa Yoshinobu), and Yanaka Ginza, after which they said they would head toward Shibuya on their own, and we parted ways. The weather was fine today, and I believe they were satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherHinode Pier～Asakusa1,400JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa (TX)～Nezu420JPY
    Total1,820JPY

    Tour Report by Itsuki

    Hi, My name is Itsuki. I have been working as a tour guide since 2023 in Tokyo. I was born in Chiba prefecture where Narita international airport is located. This is one of the reasons I got interested in international exchange. I currently live in the east part of Tokyo. Tokyo station, Ueno, Asakusa, Akihabara, Tokyo Skytree are within 10km from my home.
    I love travelling abroad (I have visited approximately one hundred countries) and fortunately I have had great experiences in all the countries. I hope you also have good memories here in Japan and it’s my pleasure if I could help you.
    So far, I have had a lot of guests from different countries, religions and generations. Of course their interests are all different. No worry! Will try to arrange the best itinerary for you.

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    Jul 14, 2026
    Mobile53144254562
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Bra introduktion till Tokyo
    Vi hade en intressant och varierad dag…

  • Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet at JR Nara Station　10:50 Nara Park　　11:15 Todaiji Temple　12:40 Lunch　14:00 Kasuga Taisha Shrine　15:10 Naramachi　16:00 JR Nara Station　16:40 Escort to JR Tofukuji Station and end the tour

    Can You Do a Private Day Trip to Nara? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Oceania. Nara was extremely crowded with tourists today, and there was a long queue of about 100 meters just to enter Todai-ji Temple. This was likely because there were fewer tour groups and many independent travelers. At Kasuga Taisha Shrine as well, worshippers formed a line waiting to pray. It was the first time I had seen such a scene. I feel that Nara is gradually becoming as established a tourist destination as Kyoto. Getting deer crackers was also quite a challenge; we waited in line, but they sold out partway through, so we had to go to another shop before we could finally get some. Because of all this, it took a lot of time, and we ran out of time to visit Yoshikien Garden. The photo was taken in front of the Naramachi Koshi-no-ie (lattice house).

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassJR Nara Station～JR Nara Station600JPY
    Total600JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

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    Sep 28, 2026
    Miguel_E
    Amazing Service
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful time with Kazuo.…

    Sep 27, 2026
    T
    TrailBlazer47194
    Kazuo Sumi is a great guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide Kazuo Sumi…

    Sep 1, 2026
    Steve6172014
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 7, 2026
    Pascale_Q
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Very good private tour of Kyoto with Kazuo
    We had…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Nanzen-ji Temple & Kennin-ji Temple and Zenkyoan

    Kyoto in One Day: Nanzen-ji Temple & Kennin-ji Temple and Zenkyoan

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:30 Meet at The Westin Miyako Kyoto
    • 12:30～13:00　Stroll around Nanzen-ji Temple
    • 13:00～14：00　Heian Shrine
    • 14：30～15:00　Stroll along the Shirakawa River
    • 15：00～15:10　Stroll in front of Chion-in Temple gate
    • 15：30～15:00　Yasaka Shrine
    • 15:10～15:20　Stroll around Hanamikoji Street
    • 15:20～16:00　Stroll around Kennin-ji Temple and Zenkyoan
    • 16:00　Disband at Hanamikoji Street

    Title: What's a Family-Friendly Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The itinerary had been arranged with a preference for staying close by, choosing places where the guests would not get bored, so Nishiki Market and the Pokemon Center were added to the plan above. The guests had also requested that the tour end so they could make a 17:30 reservation at the Samurai Kyoto Museum. When we actually met on the day, however, they said they wanted to return to the Hotel by 17:00 to avoid getting too tired. They also mentioned that before coming to Kyoto they had already done plenty of shopping in Tokyo, so today they wanted to experience "culture." At Nanzenji Temple I had thought it might be enough to show just the Sanmon gate, but they seemed keen to go further inside, so I showed them the dragon on the ceiling of the Hatto hall and the Suirokaku aqueduct. Although we could not enter Tenjuan, they were able to view the garden through the windows and took photographs with it as a backdrop. We then headed to Heian Shrine. Unfortunately the zoo was closed, but a giraffe and flamingos were visible along the canal, which delighted the guests. They were also moved by the great torii gate of Heian Shrine and happily took photos. When I explained that the architecture of Heian Shrine was greatly influenced by styles introduced from China during the Nara period, they were quite surprised. We then strolled along the beautiful Shirakawa. The younger of the guests was very eager to cross the bridges and was very pleased to do so, though the narrow single-plank bridge seemed too dangerous, so it was not crossed. Next, as they wished to visit Yasaka Shrine, I suggested a route entering from the north torii by going through Chionin and Maruyama Park, rather than the stair-heavy west gate. Along the way we took a break at the Sanmon gate of Chionin, and viewed herons and ducks at the gourd-shaped pond in Maruyama Park. At Yasaka Shrine, they were especially impressed by the lanterns of the dance hall. When I explained about unlucky years, it turned out that one of the guests was in such a year. We then strolled along Hanamikoji. As they showed interest in Kenninji Temple, we decided to pass through Kenninji and then walk back to the Hotel. After leaving Kenninji, one of the younger guests said they wanted to walk on their own, so I held their hand and we walked together. Although they had been running around until then, they surprisingly walked calmly hand in hand with me. We returned again to Hanamikoji, and after crossing Shijo Street, one of the guests said they could not walk any further, so we hailed a taxi and had them return to the Hotel. From the taxi window, the younger guest waved to me until I was out of sight. I have guided a few tours with children before, and generally the children would get bored, so I had felt somewhat uneasy about them, but this time the cheerful young ones made the tour enjoyable for me as well. The guests kindly agreed to have the photo posted on the web. Before the tour, they had bought T-shirts printed with "Kyoto" and wore them to join the tour.

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

    Tour Report by Satoko

    I am a 54-year-old woman, living in Kyoto for nearly 40 years. I got the license in 2001. Since then, I worked as an interpreter or a translator in several companies, secretary at universities, and now work for a company on weekdays at the international dept.I do guiding job only weekend now. I started full swing guiding career after COVID-19 pandemic. I have gotten good review from many of my guests. I love my hometown, Kyoto which has a lot of interesting and historical sites to see. Particularly, I am native to Arashiyama which is famous for bamboo forest. So, I know a lot of places where you can relax yourself around this area. Other than that, Kyoto has many attractive sites which surely interest you.Also, I like meeting many people from different cultural background. I am very happy if I learn about your culture as well. Let’s enjoy exploring around Kyoto!

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    May 18, 2026
    WENDY_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent day out
    The trip was really well planned and organised, it…

    Sep 21, 2025
    joshsJ915FC
    Super tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Really wonderful tour of markets and geisha district.…

    Jun 16, 2025
    Chanyl C
    Highly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My husband and I really enjoyed the Kyoto tour.…

    May 18, 2025
    Steve J
    A relaxing, enjoyable visit to Arashiyama.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Satori was very kind and…

  • Kyoto: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Kyoto: Sagano Bamboo Grove & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Meet at AirBnB with the address: 350 Yatsuyanagichō, Shimogyō-ku, Kyoto City
    • 09: 10 to 09:40 Tenryu-ji Sogenchi Garden
    • 09:40 to 10:00 Sagano Bamboo Grove
    • 10:30 to 11:30 Kinkaku-ji
    • 12:10 to 13:10 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 13:20 to 14:00 Lunch at Tenkaippin
    • 14:30 Disband at Kiyomizuzaka

    Title: What Can You See on a 6-Hour Private Kyoto Tour by Microbus? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. A microbus had been reserved for the day's transportation. When visiting popular spots such as the Sagano Bamboo Grove, Fushimi Inari, and Kiyomizu-dera, a microbus takes more time because the parking areas are located far from the sites. I was a little concerned about whether we would be able to visit all of the requested spots, but everyone in the group walked well, and we were able to finish in 6 hours, including lunch. We said goodbye at Kiyomizu-dera at the end, and I believe the guests enjoyed exploring on their own afterward.

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

    Tour Report by Haru

    Personal data
    Born in : May 1st, 1957
    Hobby : Visiting scenic places,
    historic spots, Japanese
    gardens and old townscape
    Former career : Worked for electric
    company and engaged in
    international sales for
    about 40 years.
    Travel history in the former career :
    Visited about 20 countries about 200 times

    Career as guide interpreter
    Acquisition of guide license : 2016
    Career of guide : 8 years
    Genre of my specialty :
    Japanese historic structures such as
    temple, shrine, castle and garden.
    Area of guide : Kyoto, Nara, Osaka &
    Himeji

    Let’s enjoy Japan with me !!

    Request Booking

    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…

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

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Kinkakuji

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Meet (@Chapter Kyoto Portofolio)
    • 9:00-9:40 Transfer (Subway; Kyoto City Hall Front→Sanjo Keihan, Keihan Train; Keihan Sanjo→Fushimi Inari)
    • 9:40-10:40 Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 10:40-11:10 Transfer (Keihan Train; Fushimi Inari→Keihan Shichijo)
    • 11:10-12:00 Visit Sanjusangendo
    • 12:10-13:00 Lunch (@Sato/Near Sanjusangendo)
    • 13:00-14:20 Transfer (Keihan Train; Keihan Shichijo→Gion Shijo, City Bus; Shijo Keihan Front→Kinkakuji Michi)
    • 14:20-15:00 Visit Kinkakuji
    • 15:00 Tour ends after visiting Kinkakuji. After the tour, we escorted the guests to the hotel and said goodbye in front of the hotel.

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Sanjusangendo, and Kinkaku-ji The guests were a group visiting from North America, and it was their first time in Kyoto. I took the group to Fushimi Inari Taisha, Sanjusangendo, and Kinkaku-ji, and every location was as crowded as, or even more crowded than, the spring or autumn peak seasons. In particular, at Kinkaku-ji the line up to the ticket purchase area is normally about 50 meters, or 100 meters at most, but today the line stretched roughly 400 to 500 meters from outside the gate (I was told this was because the ticket counters had been limited). The bus to Kinkaku-ji was also extremely packed, and since this was a tour that included traveling with a very young child, I believe the group became quite tired. The group said that Kinkaku-ji was their favorite. In addition to that, one of the guests also felt that Sanjusangendo was wonderful.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto City Hall Front～Sanjo (Kyoto Prefecture)220JPY
    Section 2TrainSanjo (Kyoto Prefecture)～Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Section 3TrainFushimi Inari～Keihan Shichijo／Princess Line180JPY
    Section 4TrainKeihan Shichijo／Princess Line～Gion Shijo180JPY
    Section 5BusShijo (Kyoto Municipal)～Kinkakuji Michi／Kyoto Municipal Bus230JPY
    Total1,050JPY

    Tour Report by Michi

    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 !

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    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.…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Greet guests at Hotel　10:40 Sensoji Temple　11:30 Kappabashi　12:30 Lunch　13:30 Imperial Palace　14:15 See them off at Hibiya Station on the Hibiya Line and say goodbye

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Walking Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a friendly group visiting Japan. They were in great spirits from the very beginning, and conversation flowed easily throughout the day. Since their main request was simply to take photos at famous spots, we first went to Senso-ji Temple for pictures. One of the guests runs a pet grooming business and wanted to buy scissors, so we walked to Kappabashi, but most of the shops were closed for the year-end holidays. Even so, the guests were delighted to be able to purchase a kitchen knife. For lunch we were able to find a traditional Japanese eatery as requested. When I explained how to eat soba and sushi, the guests were very appreciative. Afterward, we were also able to do some shopping for items the guests wanted, and everyone was satisfied. As our time came to an end while viewing the Imperial Palace, I escorted the guests to the Hibiya Line station and saw them off. We had become quite friendly by the time the tour ended.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTsukiji～Asakusa290JPY
    Total290JPY

    Tour Report by Shinji

    Before I started the guiding job in 2022, I had worked for private companies and been engaged in overseas business, which led me to be stationed in various English-speaking countries. Taking advantage of such experiences and also wishing to reciprocate the kindness extended to me during my career, I have decided to help visitors to Japan enjoy their stay and obtained a national guide license.
    I am very honored and pleased to assist guests from overseas and enjoy seeing them having a great time visiting interesting spots in Japan and learning about the country. I look forward to serving more new guests and seeing them smile at the end of my private tours.

    Request Booking

    Jun 8, 2025
    T1516LOmarkg
    Tokyo tour
    Tripadvisor review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Great tour, Shinji was great, they…

    Feb 28, 2025
    LaToya_S
    Mr. Shinji is so nice and…
    Viator review: Kamakura 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mr. Shinji is so nice and…

    Feb 27, 2025
    Edward_M
    Friendly and Knowledgeable Tour Guide
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide was knowledgeable and friendly!…

    Feb 17, 2025
    Trip29223434750
    Heavenly Hakone with an angelic guide
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    For those not wanting to…

  • Osaka: Kintetsu-Nara & Nigatsudo Hall

    Osaka: Kintetsu-Nara & Nigatsudo Hall

    Nara Day Trip from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Pick up at The St. Regis Osaka ( → 17:00 End of Guided Tour)
    • Trains: Hommachi (Osaka Metro) → Namba (transfer)
    • → Osaka-Namba (Kintetsu railway) → Yamato-Saidaiji (transfer) →
    • Nishinokyo
    • 10:00-11:00　Yakushiji Temple (UNESCO World Heritage) entrance 1000 yen
    • Trains: Nishinokyo → Yamato-Saidaiji (transfer) →
    • 11:30 Kintetsu-Nara
    • taxi 5 minutes 800 yen
    • 11:40-12:00 Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Deer Park
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 12:10-20 Todaiji Nandaimon Gate
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 12:30-13:00 Todaiji Great Buddha Hall
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 13:10-20 Todaiji Bell Tower
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 13:30-40 Nigatsudo Hall
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 14:00-50 Base of Wakakusayama Lunch (Mikasaya Honten)
    • 　　　　　taxi
    • 15:00 (End of Tour) back at Kintetsu-Nara Station

    What Is a Private Tokyo History Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was staying at a hotel, and I felt a certain sense of anticipation even before the tour began. The guest had a deep interest in Japanese history, and our conversation ranged from ancient times to the present without ever running out of topics. In particular, I received many probing questions about the relationship between Japan and North America before and after the Second World War, though I do not feel I was able to give sufficient explanations. It gave me one more subject to study.

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

    Tour Report by Junichi

    Hello! Thank you for choosing Nara! I bet you’ll love Nara. I specialize in Nara because Nara is the unique place where in one day you can cover the history and religions of Japan from the ancient times to the post war era while enjoying rambling in the UNESCO World Heritage park, having communication with lovely deer, surrounded with the beautiful nature.
    I grew up in Nara, went university in Kyoto, enjoyed teaching at high schools and a university in Osaka. The three former capitals of Japan are home to me.
    After retiring from teaching I began guiding so that I can meet various people from various corners of the world with a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Each time I guide, I find it hugely rewarding because I learn a lot from my guests sharing the history, culture and all that I know about Nara, Kyoto and Osaka.
    I used to be a marathon runner, mountain climber and skier though I am not much of them anymore.
    What I especially recommend is to stay in Nara a couple of days and enjoy communicating with friendly deer while visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nara in early morning, temples and shrines at night are well worth experiencing.

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    May 16, 2026
    I3520JTcristinat
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nara with family
    Excellent tour with Junichi!!! Perfect English speaking guide and…

    May 3, 2026
    Maria_J
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyable day in Nara
    We spent 6 hours in Nara with Junichi…

    Apr 11, 2026
    64sandig
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Osaka DEP. with Licensed Guide
    ????? Absolutely Outstanding ? Junichi Made Our Nara Day…

    Mar 30, 2026
    dpadillachavez
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
    Great day at Nara!
    Best tour on Nara, Junichi…

  • Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour

    Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour

    Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Meet　9:22 Ferry　Miyanoura Port　10:00 Naoshima New Art Museum　Tea at the Museum Cafe　11:30 Benesse House Museum　Outdoor Art　Art Viewing　Lunch　14:30 Lee Ufan　15:00 Valley Gallery　15:30 Chichu Art Museum

    What Is a Private Naoshima Art Island Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests visited the Naoshima New Art Museum primarily to see the works of Takashi Murakami, but they also greatly enjoyed a piece by Do Ho Suh and took many photographs of it. They seemed overwhelmed by Cai Guo-Qiang's "Head On." They kindly agreed to let us use the photos taken with this work for promotional purposes. They also mentioned that the cafe had a wonderful view and was very pleasant. Next, at the Benesse House Museum, which they had been looking forward to, they enjoyed the artworks, but the scenery was also spectacular, and they especially relaxed with wine at a restaurant with an excellent view. After that, they enjoyed the outdoor art at Lee Ufan Museum, which I had recommended, and also viewed Yayoi Kusama's "Narcissus Garden." They found the Chichu Art Museum wonderful, but said they liked Monet the most. The weather was fine and not too cold, and they seemed to have thoroughly enjoyed Naoshima.

    Click here for more details: Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1FerryUno～Miyanoura Port (Naoshima)590JPY
    Total590JPY

    Tour Report by Ray

    I have been a tour guide for 5 years. I always make an effort to behave as a guide with the spirit of Omotenashi, Japanese hospitality, which contains the attitude to entertain not only guests, but also myself. I specialize in art tour in Naoshima, Teshima, Inujima islands, where I have extensive knowledge about modern art. Additionally, I excel in providing historical context at popular tourist destinations like Kurashiki, Okayama, and Takamatsu.I will tailor your tour to your satisfaction , considering your priority, interest, taste. I do my best to provide as many explanations as possible based on your preferences. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to share my knowledge and enthusiasm with you.

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    May 4, 2025
    466shinc
    How to make the best of Naoshima (with Ray)
    Tripadvisor review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Ray was an…

    May 17, 2024
    Isaactim
    Sensaciónal
    Tripadvisor review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Muy buena experiencia
    Gracias Reiko, muy ágil muy buena explicación y…

    May 15, 2024
    tgalang23
    Excellent Naoshima Rei!
    Tripadvisor review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing guide Rei made the Naoshima experience one to…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet at Hotel
    • 11:40 Meiji Shrine
    • 12:45 Imperial Palace East Garden Entrance (explanation only as it is closed)
    • 13:05 Ueno Park, Ueno Toshogu Shrine, Kiyomizu Kannon-do
    • 14:10 Asakusa (Skytree photos)
    • 15:30 Dismiss at Asakusa Nishi-Sando Shopping Street

    Title: What Is a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The morning was rather cloudy, but the afternoon turned clear and sunny, making it a fine day for sightseeing. The plan had originally included the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, but since they were closed that day, I decided to add Ueno Park instead. For the East Gardens, I limited the visit to explaining Edo Castle and the Imperial Palace near the entrance. Overall we moved at a brisk pace, and although I gave plenty of explanations, there were not many questions and few photos were taken, so the tour progressed somewhat faster than expected. The plan had been to take a leisurely look around Asakusa with explanations and then return to the Hotel, but the guests expressed a wish to find a place to eat and have a meal in Asakusa, so even though it was earlier than scheduled, we parted ways at the Nishi-Sando shopping street.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOnarimon～Meiji-jingumae900JPY
    Section 2Free PassMeiji-jingumae～Otemachi0JPY
    Section 3Free PassOtemachi～Yushima0JPY
    Section 4Free PassUeno～Asakusa0JPY
    Total900JPY

    Tour Report by Koba

    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.

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    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…