Category: Uncategorized

  • Ishikawa in Half a Day: Shinkansen platform

    Ishikawa in Half a Day: Shinkansen platform

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • Early this morning in the middle of the night, the customer's agent contacted me on WhatsApp, which I rarely use, and at the customer's request, today's start time was 12:00 and the end was until boarding the Kanazawa-to-Tokyo Shinkansen departing at 15:57.
    • The itinerary is as follows
    • 12:00 Meet at the hotel, and at the grandchild's request, walk to the Starbucks at Kanazawa Station.
    • 12:30 From Starbucks, take a taxi from the Kenrokuen Exit to Ishikawa Gate
    • 12:50 Enter Kanazawa Castle Ruins Park from Ishikawa Gate and stroll.
    • 13:30 Enter Kenrokuen from the Katsurazaka Gate and stroll
    • 14:10 Walk from the Mayumizaka Gate of Kenrokuen to the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa
    • 14:20 Enjoy all the installations on the lawn outside the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa. After that, enjoy the free zone inside the museum
    • 15:00 Return to the hotel by taxi, pick up the luggage, and head to Kanazawa Station.
    • 15:30 Arrive at the Shinkansen platform
    • 15:57 See off the customer boarding the Kagayaki No. 510 and conclude the tour.

    What Can You See on a Private Kanazawa Walking Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Although they came from a region where the official language is Spanish, they spoke English. One of the requests was Kanazawa Castle Park and another was Kenrokuen Garden, so we visited these two places first. The guests enjoyed strolling around while taking many photos. Then, since the group had mentioned an interest in art, we visited the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa, and the guests were delighted. In particular, they enjoyed stepping inside several of the installations set on the lawn outside the museum, taking photos and enjoying the art. At the entrance to Kanazawa Castle Park, one of the staff members handed over an origami flapping crane and an origami shuriken, which the guests were pleased with and played with. For the visit to the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, the weather was fine, and the outdoor installations were unexpectedly beautiful. The guests also found the free zone inside interesting and enjoyable.

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

    Tour Report by Masayo

    Hello.
    My name is Masayo Shirai.
    I have been a national licensed tour guide of English since April in 2014.
    I was born. raised, and still living near the Higashi Chaya District in Kanazawa.
    I have guided lots of foreign guests in my hometown Kanazawa, Gokayama, Shirakawago, Takaymam, Kaga, Fukui, and Toyama.
    I have guided FIT, highend FIT, group tour, and bus tours.
    I have been learning tea cemoney, flower arrangement, and noh performance of noh chanting and playing the hand drum.
    I can take you to the experience spot of such traditional cultural spots in my hometown, Kanazawa,

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    Oct 5, 2025
    L
    LightPacker147788
    Kanazawa visit
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Very interesting tour with Masayo. She took us…

    Jun 27, 2025
    H6092PZsuem
    Pleasant and interesting morning
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Masayo was our guide for the morning.…

    Mar 16, 2025
    952bonnieh
    Wonderful!!!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We loved our time with Masayo! Thank you for a…

    Jan 3, 2025
    U5110ZKjades
    A day in Kanazawa with Masayo!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Masayo Shirai was an excellent…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Hamarikyu Gardens & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Hamarikyu Gardens & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 10:05 Take the JR Keiyo Line to Shimbashi Station via Tokyo Station
    • 10:35 Walk to Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 10:45-11:30 @ Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 11:50 Commemorative photo @ in front of Kabukiza Theater
    • 12:10 @ Stroll along Ginza Main Street, visit the Nissan Showroom, etc.
    • 12:20 Take the Ginza Line to Meiji-jingumae via Omotesando
    • 12:30-13:10 @ Stroll along Takeshita Street
    • 13:20-14:00 @ Visit Meiji Shrine
    • 14:00 Take the Yamanote Line to Shibuya
    • 14:10 @ Shibuya: Hachiko Statue, Scramble Crossing, Center Street
    • 14:30 Disband @ Keika Shibuya Center Street branch

    What's a Private Tokyo Cultural Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They were a very close-knit group and got along wonderfully. The guide booking had originally been made for one person, but the night before, I received an email saying there would actually be four. The office kindly handled the change in the number of guests. (Thank you very much for the swift response!) Since the guests were interested in traditional Japanese culture, they explored Hamarikyu Gardens, the Kabukiza Theatre building, and Meiji Shrine with great interest. At the same time, they seemed amazed by the contrast with the crowds in areas like Ginza, Takeshita Street, and Shibuya Center Gai. Along the way, I bought them some Yukimi Daifuku at a convenience store, which they were delighted with. Finally, after the tour had ended, I guided them to Keika Ramen in Center Gai. When I asked for their impressions after we parted ways, they were thrilled, saying, "This ramen is perfect! So delicious!" They told me they would like to stay in touch going forward, so I believe they were very satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShiomi～Shimbashi180JPY
    Section 2SubwayGinza～Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku～Shibuya150JPY
    Total510JPY

    Tour Report by May

    Hi, I’m May, your guide in Tokyo. Welcome to Japan!
    I have been grown up in Tokyo and working here for more than 45 years, so I’m sure I can share the best attraction of Tokyo with you, such as food, cultural and historic sites, sub-culture, shopping, and nightlife.
    Besides the tour guide, I have been working for a travel agent for more than 30 years, I can advise you the travel plan of not only in Tokyo but all over Japan.
    I had lots of guests from all over the world here in Tokyo, and most of them gave me great and wonderful review.
    I’m sure I can meet all of your demand and expectations, and am ready to welcome you to Japan with the best “Omotenashi” mind, or hospitality.

    Request Booking

    Sep 19, 2026
    Plumb72
    Introduction to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide ‘May’ had emailed us several times…

    Aug 31, 2026
    Charlene_E
    You get to experience…
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    You get to experience moving…

    Aug 31, 2026
    labrinir2016
    Excellent- best in class.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We booked a private tour…

    Jul 16, 2026
    fernandorM8865OM
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Fuji Five Lakes Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    Memorable day
    We had a great time. Our guide Meiji…

  • Kumamoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kumamoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kumamoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel Nikko Kumamoto → One Piece Nami Statue (Nishihara Village) → One Piece Franky Statue (Takamori Town)
    • → Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine (Takamori Town) → One Piece Usopp Statue (Aso City)
    • → One Piece Robin Statue (Minamiaso Village) → Purchase Zoro Statue Figure at Roadside Station Ozu (Ozu Town) → One Piece Zoro Statue (Ozu Town) → Kumamoto Prefectural Government Office (One Piece Luffy Statue and purchase of the same figure)
    • → Kato Shrine (Kumamoto City) → Disband at Amu Plaza Kumamoto (in front of Kumamoto Station)

    What Is a Private One Piece Statue Tour in Kumamoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Through messaging app exchanges the day before, they had expressed a strong wish to visit as many One Piece statues as possible, as they were big fans. The guests arranged a taxi themselves, and we visited six One Piece statues and two shrines, ending the tour at a building next to Kumamoto Station. The guests, who said it was their dream to tour the One Piece statues, were bright and energetic, and they were very happy and grateful to have been able to see five or six of the statues. They were wonderful guests who made the time together very pleasant, and it was a joy to guide them.

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

    Tour Report by Junichi

    Hello, my name is Junichi Matsumoto.
    I will be your guide on this occasion. With warm hospitality, I will do my best to help you fully enjoy and appreciate the charm of Japan.

    Before becoming a guide, I worked for the Kumamoto Prefectural Government and retired in March 2023. From 2003 to 2005, I was stationed in Montana, USA, which has a sister-state relationship with Kumamoto. During that time, I actively interacted with the local community together with my family, which gave me valuable cross-cultural experiences.

    I am an easygoing person who quickly builds a friendly relationship with international guests. With a sincere smile and attentive care, I always strive to provide tours that are warm, enjoyable, and memorable. It would be my great pleasure to help you make unforgettable memories during your stay in Japan.

    Request Booking

    Sep 19, 2026
    F5041JSmathiasl
    Great experience
    Tripadvisor review: Kumamoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Despite the awful weather I had a…

    Sep 12, 2026
    adrianhP6285OW
    True tour of Nagasaki
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent customised tour which made…

    Jul 24, 2026
    mariopV3953VG
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Amazing tour by an amazing guide
    Junichi, our guide,…

    Jun 16, 2026
    andreabL155TS
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nagaski day tour
    Junichi was a great tour guide. He met us…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Tenryu-ji Temple

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Tenryu-ji Temple

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at JR Kyoto Station
    • 10:40 to 11:30 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 12:00 to 12:30 Ryoan-ji Temple
    • 13:10 to 13:40 Tenryu-ji Temple
    • 14:00 Disband at Randen Arashiyama Station

    Title: What Can You See on a 4-Hour Private Kyoto Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. They stayed in Tokyo for a few days, and since they had a little time on their way to Hiroshima, they decided to stop by Kyoto. As we only had a limited window of four hours, I guided them through three popular spots in the western part of Kyoto, and after the tour they planned to explore the Monkey Park, the Bamboo Grove, and the Arashiyama Togetsukyo Bridge area on their own. Since the autumn foliage had already fallen, they were quite disappointed about missing it.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto～Kitaoji Bus Terminal (Subway Kitaoji Station)／Kyoto City Bus260JPY
    Section 2BusKitaoji Bus Terminal (Subway Kitaoji Station)／Kyoto City Bus～Kinkaku-ji-michi／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3BusKinkaku-ji-michi／Kyoto City Bus～Ryoan-ji-mae／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4BusRyoan-ji-mae／Kyoto City Bus～Omuro Ninna-ji／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 5TrainOmuro Ninna-ji～Arashiyama (Keifuku Line)250JPY
    Total1,200JPY

    Tour Report by Haru

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

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

    Let’s enjoy Japan with me !!

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    Dec 30, 2024
    shannono1010
    Haru is a Rock Star
    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…

  • Tokyo: Toyosu Market & Tsukiji Outer Market

    Tokyo: Toyosu Market & Tsukiji Outer Market

    Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 5:00 Meet @ Hotel
    • 5:20 @ Toyosu Market (tuna auction, intermediate wholesale market)
    • 7:30 @ Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 8:00 Disband @ Tsukiji Outer Market

    What's a Private Tokyo Tour of Toyosu and Tsukiji Markets Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided the group visiting from North America to Toyosu Market and Tsukiji Outer Market. Some of the guests enjoy fishing, while others enjoy cooking fish, so at the intermediate wholesalers' section of Toyosu, they purchased cooking utensils for preparing fish dishes. At the tuna auction, they were amazed to see hundreds of tuna all sold off within just one hour. At Tsukiji Outer Market, I gave an overview of the area over about 30 minutes, after which we parted ways on site.

    Click here for more details: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Seky

    Hi friends, I’m Seky, a tour guide in Tokyo, but I cover all over Japan, namely from Hokkaido to Kyushu. I have lived overseas for more than 15 years in total, such as US, UK, Singapore and others, and enjoyed local culture there. Back in Japan, I wish I could help travelers to Japan enjoy Japanese culture, and this is why I became a tour guide.
    In Tokyo, my favorite places are Shibuya, Harajuku, Asakusa, and if you are interested in fish market, I’d love to take you to the world largest Tuna auction and/or if you are sports lovers, I’ll go to ball games (baseball) too.

    Request Booking

    May 8, 2025
    J
    jeanne_c
    Sell was very…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sell was very knowledgeable and willing to talk…

    Mar 2, 2025
    Joe_F
    Excellent Custom Tokyo Tour
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour, customized to my interests, Edo period…

    Mar 1, 2025
    R2911ISjoef
    Excellent Custom Tours, Great Guides, Reasonable Prices.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a friendly…

    Oct 27, 2024
    Jennifer_G
    Great day touring Tokyo !
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Government Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 7 persons)
    We had…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Azabu-juban Station & Jomyoji bus

    Tokyo in One Day: Azabu-juban Station & Jomyoji bus

    Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meeting place: Hotel & Apartments Tokyo Azabu
    • 8:10 Azabu-juban Station
    • (Toei Oedo Line)
    • Aoyama-itchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Shibuya Station
    • (Shonan-Shinjuku Line)
    • 9:33 Arrive at Kamakura Station
    • 9:40 Depart Kamakura Station
    • (Enoshima Electric Railway)
    • 9:50 Arrive at Hase Station
    • Hase Kotoku-in / Great Buddha of Kamakura
    • Hase-dera Temple
    • 11:00 Depart Hase Station
    • (Enoshima Electric Railway)
    • 11:10 Arrive at Kamakura Station
    • 11:20 Depart from Kamakura Station bus stop
    • (Keikyu Bus)
    • 11:40 Arrive at Jomyoji bus stop
    • Jomyoji Hokoku-ji Temple
    • 12:20 Depart Jomyoji bus stop
    • (Keikyu Bus)
    • 12:30 Arrive at Kamakura Station bus stop
    • Kamakura Komachi-dori Street
    • Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
    • Break: Cafe
    • 13:40 Depart Kamakura Station
    • 13:50 Arrive at Kita-Kamakura Station
    • Kita-Kamakura Meigetsu-in Temple
    • Engaku-ji Temple
    • 14:40 Depart Kita-Kamakura Station
    • (Shonan-Shinjuku Line)
    • Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Aoyama-itchome Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 15:58 Arrive at Azabu-juban Station
    • 16:00 Dismissal: Azabu-juban Station

    What's a One-Day Private Tour of Kamakura Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, and it was their first time in Japan. This was part of a longer trip to Japan. After spending several days in Tokyo, they planned to travel to Hakone, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima, before returning to Tokyo and then heading home. They mentioned, "Tokyo was crowded everywhere and tiring. We thought Kamakura might be quieter and more relaxing." Today, they wished to "visit as many of Kamakura's main spots as possible, even in a short time." It was a pleasant tour under clear skies with comfortable weather. However, all the spots were crowded with tourists. First, we took the Enoden train from Kamakura Station to Hase. Along the way, I explained "the history of Kamakura," "the history of Edo and Tokyo," "the feudal system," "the Meiji Restoration," and related topics. I also explained "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." They asked questions such as, "Do all Japanese people believe in Buddhism?" "What other religions are practiced here?" "Are there Catholics?" "Are there various sects within Buddhism?" They also went inside the Great Buddha and said, "Now I understand well how the Great Buddha was made." They also asked, "Which is bigger, this one or the Great Buddha in Nara? And which was made first?" We moved on to Hasedera Temple. They said, "The garden within the temple is wonderful. I'd like to create a garden like this at home," and "The view of Kamakura from the hilltop is magnificent." We returned to Kamakura Station and took a bus to Hokokuji Temple. We strolled slowly through the temple and its bamboo grove, taking photos. They said, "I love the calm atmosphere," and "I definitely want to visit the bamboo path in Sagano in Kyoto as well." They asked, "What sect is this temple?" "What kind of sect is Zen Buddhism?" "When was it built?" We returned to Kamakura Station and headed to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, which was crowded with many tourists. A wedding ceremony was being held on the stage, which they enthusiastically photographed. There were also many visitors for Shichi-Go-San. I explained "about Shinto," "how to worship," "amulets," "ema votive tablets," and related topics. We also visited the Inari Shrine within the grounds. We walked along Komachi Street back toward Kamakura Station. We strolled slowly through the very crowded street. They seemed particularly interested in "curry bread." We returned to Komachi Street and took a short break at a café along the way. From Kamakura Station, we went to Kita-Kamakura Station. We quickly visited "Meigetsuin" and "Engakuji." They said, "I love the quiet atmosphere," and "I'd like to try zazen meditation someday." They commented, "Japan is very safe. I'd love to come back again," "There's no litter on the streets," "I don't see any homeless people," and "Everyone is so polite." They also commented, "The transportation network, including trains and subways, is so sophisticated." We headed back from Kita-Kamakura Station. I saw them off at Azabu-Juban Station, where we parted ways.

    Click here for more details: Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainAzabu-juban～Shibuya290JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya～Kamakura950JPY
    Section 3TrainKamakura～Hase (Kanagawa Prefecture)200JPY
    Section 4TrainHase (Kanagawa Prefecture)～Kamakura200JPY
    Section 5BusKamakura Station (East Exit) / Keikyu Bus～Jomyoji / Keikyu Bus220JPY
    Section 6TrainJomyoji / Keikyu Bus～Kamakura Station (East Exit) / Keikyu Bus220JPY
    Section 7TrainKamakura～Kita-Kamakura150JPY
    Section 8TrainKita-Kamakura～Shibuya830JPY
    Section 9TrainShibuya～Azabu-juban290JPY
    Total3,350JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Ryoanji & Kinkakuji

    Kyoto in One Day: Ryoanji & Kinkakuji

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Meet (@Hotel )
    • 9:00-9:55 Travel (Subway; Karasuma Oike→Shijo, Hankyu Train; Karasuma→Arashiyama)
    • 9:55-11:10 Arashiyama walk & visit (Togetsukyo Bridge, Tenryuji Garden, Bamboo Grove, Nonomiya Shrine)
    • 11:10-12:00 Travel (Keifuku Train; Arashiyama→Ryoanji)
    • 12:00-12:50 Ryoanji visit
    • 12:50-13:10 Travel (City Bus; Ryoanji-mae→Waratenjin-mae)
    • 13:10-14:00 Lunch (CoCo Kana・near Kinkakuji)
    • 14:10-15:00 Kinkakuji visit
    • 15:00 Tour ends. After visiting Kinkakuji, we escorted you to the station nearest your accommodation (Karasuma Oike Station) and said goodbye.

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Kyoto Day Tour of Arashiyama, Ryoanji, and Kinkakuji? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. It was their first time in Kyoto. I took them to Arashiyama, Ryoanji Temple, and Kinkakuji Temple. The cold was not too severe, and some autumn foliage still remained. There were not many crowds, so we were able to proceed with the tour at a relaxed pace. Some of the guests commented that the view from Togetsukyo Bridge was wonderful, while others said they especially enjoyed the rock garden at Ryoanji Temple. During the tour, some of the guests mentioned there was a shop they wanted to visit, and when I looked it up, I found it was near Kiyomizu Temple, where I was scheduled to take them the day after next, so I decided to include it in that day's tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKarasuma Oike～Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)220JPY
    Section 2TrainKarasuma～Arashiyama (Hankyu Line)240JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)～Ryoanji250JPY
    Section 4BusRyoanji-mae／Kyoto Municipal Bus～Waratenjin-mae／Kyoto Municipal Bus230JPY
    Total940JPY

    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 !

    Request Booking

    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: Kinkaku-ji Temple & 15;45 Sanjusangendo

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & 15;45 Sanjusangendo

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 　 Meet at Dhawa Yura Kyoyo
    • 10:50 to 11:30 　Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 11:50 to 12:15 Sagano Bamboo Forest
    • 12:15 to 13:0 Lunch around Arashiyama Randen Station
    • 14:00 to 14:40 Kodai-ji Temple
    • 15:00 to 15;45 Sanjusangendo
    • 16:00 Disband at Keihan Shichijo Station

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Kyoto Like for a Returning Visitor to Japan? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest today was a visitor from Oceania. They had been to Japan once three years earlier, but that trip had covered only the Tokyo area, so this time they planned to focus on western Japan, visiting Kanazawa, Takayama, and Hiroshima in addition to Kyoto. The recent appearances of bears in urban areas across Japan have become a topic of conversation even among international tourists, and some travel agencies reportedly hand out bear hazard maps. The guest was also aware that a bear had been sighted in Kyoto. They wondered whether Takayama, being deep in the mountains, might also have bears.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwaySanjo Keihan～Nishioji Oike260JPY
    Section 2BusNishioji Oike／Kyoto City Bus～Kinkakuji-michi／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)～Shijo Omiya250JPY
    Section 4BusShijo Omiya～Higashiyama Yasui／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 5BusHigashiyama Yasui／Kyoto City Bus～Hakubutsukan Sanjusangendo-mae／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 6BusHakubutsukan Sanjusangendo-mae／Kyoto City Bus～Shichijo Keihan-mae／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total1,430JPY

    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…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Hotel Meet
    • 10:00 Miyajima
    • 13:00 Lunch
    • 14:00 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 17:00 In front of Atomic Bomb Dome, dismissal

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Hiroshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from Oceania on a full-day tour of Hiroshima. For lunch, the group enjoyed my usual okonomiyaki restaurant and ordered "koune," a beef specialty unique to Hiroshima, à la carte. They seemed to really enjoy its distinctive, chewy texture. At each facility and station, I discreetly pointed out the locations of restrooms so that the guests could feel at ease throughout the day. They were a friendly and warm group, and it was a relaxed and pleasant day from start to finish.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainIn front of Atomic Bomb Dome～Nishi-Hiroshima240JPY
    Section 2TrainNishi-Hiroshima～Miyajimaguchi330JPY
    Section 3TrainMiyajimaguchi～Nishi-Hiroshima330JPY
    Section 4BusNishi-Hiroshima～In front of Atomic Bomb Dome240JPY
    Total1,140JPY

    Tour Report by Yuji

    Originally, I’m a cycling guide doing cycling tours all over Japan.
    But, already done Hiroshima & Miyajima tour more than 400 times.
    I traveled many countries in my younger days. I traveled Europe, US, China, India, US, Mexico, Peru Australia, NZ, and so on.
    I decided to use this experience to become a guide.
    I’m afraid but no tipping required, because cycling guides are not allowed to have tipping in my association. And you do not need to pay for my lunch, because my lunch is prepared by our group.
    Please do not hesitate to ask me anything, I’ll change the plan according to your requests.
    Thank you for your understanding and please stay connected.

    Request Booking

    Jun 1, 2026
    John_W
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    A top day with a top guide
    My wife…

    May 27, 2026
    Annabelle_C
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima in a day
    Yuji was a great communicator…

    May 12, 2026
    satishp656
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    HIROSHIMA HALF DAY TOUR
    Yuji is a warm, knowledgeble…

    May 10, 2026
    StephanieB6076
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Incredible Experience
    We had an incredible experience visiting Hiroshima…

  • Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at The Machiya Ebisuya
    • 10:40 to 11:40 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 12:10 to 13:15 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 13:30 to 13:50 Lunch at Dragon Burger
    • 14:40 to 15:20 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 16:00 Disband at The Mahciya Ebisuya

    Title: What Is a 6-Hour Private Microbus Tour with a Licensed Guide Like? A Guide's Report Today's guests were a group of colleagues visiting from Europe. Since this tour involved travel by microbus, movement tended to take extra time. In order to make the most of the 6 hours for the tour itself, I had suggested a quick lunch such as sandwiches from a convenience store to finish eating early. However, this may not have been well received, as an email came in the day before the tour requesting to cancel only the guide, since they wished to enjoy a more leisurely lunch. In the case of a tour that includes a vehicle, canceling only the guide is not possible, and finding a new guide the day before the tour is difficult, so in the end I was asked to serve as the guide as planned. However, on the day of the tour, many of the guests seemed dissatisfied that I had come without a change of guide. According to the tour leader, they wanted the tour itself to go ahead, the microbus was needed, and a guide was needed, but they would have preferred a different guide. I carried out the above tour itinerary as the guests requested, but it was a long 6 hours.

    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…