Category: Uncategorized

  • Kagawa in One Day: Miyanoura Port Bus & House Art Project

    Kagawa in One Day: Miyanoura Port Bus & House Art Project

    Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:03 Miyanoura Port Bus Stop [Meet]
    • 09:06 Miyanoura Port Bus Stop
    • by town bus　
    • 09:20 Tsutsujiso Bus Stop
    • visit “Yellow Pumpkin”
    • 10:05 Tsutsujiso Bus Stop
    • by Benesse bus
    • 10:12 Chichu Art Museum Bus Stop
    • 10:15~11:30 Chichu Art Museum
    • 　 on foot
    • 11:45~12:30 Lee Ufan Museum & Valley Gallery
    • on foot
    • 12:45~13:30 Benesse House Museum (including lunch)
    • 13:40~14:20 Benesse House Museum outdoor art works
    • on foot
    • 14:27 Tsutsujiso Bus Stop
    • by town bus
    • 14:33 Noukyomae Bus Stop
    • 14:40~15:15 The House Art Project (Ishibashi, Haisha)
    • 15:18 Naoshima Town Office [Say Goodbye]

    What Is a Private Naoshima Art Island Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. They shared that they walk 8 km every day and about 16 km on their days off, so they were very strong walkers. Because of this, I was surprised to hear that the day before, on November 22, they had walked on their own from Naoshima Port to the Naoshima New Museum of Art and back. They had visited Japan three times before, and this trip they were traveling Tokyo → Kyoto → Osaka → Kurashiki → Okayama → Uno → Naoshima → Uno → Tokyo. When I asked why they were not going to Nara, they told me that they have six deer at home, so they did not particularly want to see more. When I asked if their house was large, they said the land was about 8 acres but the house itself was small. They were surprised at how much the number of tourists had increased everywhere compared to when they had visited two years earlier. After seeing the Art House Project, they suggested walking from the Naoshima town hall to Miyanoura Port, which surprised me a little, but since I had already heard how strong they were as walkers, I agreed. They were very cheerful and listened attentively, and it was a pleasure to guide them. Afterward I also received a kind thank-you message via a messaging app, which was wonderful.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusMiyanoura Port / Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture～Tsutsujiso / Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture100JPY
    Section 2BusTsutsujiso / Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture～Noukyomae / Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture100JPY
    Total200JPY

    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…

  • Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 10:00 Tour starts in front of the Kanazawa Station Tourist Information Center
    • Travel by bus to Hashibacho
    • AM 10:30-11:50 Higashi Chaya District stroll, cafe, Hakuza Gold Leaf, Kazuemachi Chaya District
    • Travel by bus to Kenrokuen-shita
    • PM 12:20 – 12:40 Kanazawa Castle Park, San-no-maru only
    • PM 12:40-13:20 Kenrokuen Garden tour
    • Travel by bus to Omicho Market
    • PM 13:40-14:00　　Light meal at Omicho Market
    • Tour ends

    Title: What Is a Private Kanazawa Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was visiting Japan for the second time, traveling solo, and had stopped in Kanazawa on the way to Kyoto. It was the guest's first time visiting the Sea of Japan side of the country. In the Higashi Chaya District, the guest watched the final stage of gold leaf production at a specialty shop and enjoyed some shopping. The guest wished to take many photos at each spot, so the work felt less like guiding and more like being a photographer, but as long as the guest was happy, I was glad. The guest said they would like to return to Kanazawa someday and spend more time here. To finish, the guest enjoyed grilled eel skewers and box crab at Omicho Market, bringing the tour to an end.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKanazawa Station／Hokuriku Railroad Bus～Hashibacho／Hokuriku Railroad Bus210JPY
    Section 2BusHashibacho／Hokuriku Railroad Bus～Kenrokuen-shita・Kanazawa Castle／Hokuriku Railroad Bus210JPY
    Section 3BusKenrokuen-shita・Kanazawa Castle／Hokuriku Railroad Bus～Musashigatsuji・Omicho Market／Hokuriku Railroad Bus210JPY
    Total630JPY

    Tour Report by YOSHI

    Hello , My name is Hideharu Yoshino . Just call me” Yoshi” .
    I have been involved with many foreign Business partners through my business life for 38 years ,
    Based on my work experience , I would like to try my best to make you comfortale and Happy fruitful times during your stay in Japan .
    Not only giving you basic tourist information about famous sightseeing spot , also I would enjoy to give you the back ground inofrmation in my word.
    ” Once in a lifetime encounter ” Let’s enjoy with me Miracle time to be picked up from 6 billion in somewhere Japan!

    Request Booking

    Sep 29, 2026
    matthewsY2654UC
    Highly recommended!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Yoshi is an exceptional guide where he took us…

    Sep 28, 2026
    751juergend
    Perfect day in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the perfect guide, very…

    Sep 27, 2026
    karen_f
    YOSHI san was incredible!
    Viator review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    YOSHI met us at our…

    Sep 19, 2026
    Plumb72
    A morning in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a fab tour with Yoshi…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Shinsaibashi

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Shinsaibashi

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet @ Hilton Osaka
    • 09:45 @ Osaka Castle (exterior only)
    • 11:00 @ Shitenno-ji Temple
    • 12:00 @ Shinsaibashi
    • 12:30 Disband @ Dotonbori

    What's a Private Osaka Tour Like Including Shitennoji Temple? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, and the tour proceeded smoothly. At each spot they showed genuine interest as they explored. They also listened attentively to the guide's explanations. At Shitennoji Temple, there were many visitors coming for "Shichi-Go-San" prayers, and the temple was very lively. The guests were both very warm and kind, which made it enjoyable and rewarding for me to guide them. I presented them with a handmade drawstring pouch, which they were delighted to receive. They mentioned that they wanted to visit the "Umeda Sky Building" near their hotel on their own later in the afternoon and evening, so I gave them a brochure and explained the way back, and we parted ways about 30 minutes early.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOsaka～Morinomiya180JPY
    Section 2TrainMorinomiya～Tennoji180JPY
    Section 3SubwayShitennojimae-Yuhigaoka～Shinsaibashi240JPY
    Total600JPY

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

    This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
    I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
    real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
    if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

    Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
    that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
    and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
    foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
    Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
    explanation for these three foods.

    1) Tako-yaki
    Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
    octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
    2) Okonomi-yaki
    This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
    Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
    3) Kushi-katsu
    Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
    ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

    Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
    that you like them very much.

    I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
    and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
    great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

    Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
    Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
    Yama

    Request Booking

    Sep 27, 2026
    Ross_W
    Fun with Hidden Gems
    Viator review: Osaka Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour, Licensed Guide
    Our guide Yama was so…

    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Great experience
    Yama was great, he showed us around and explained…

    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up　The Tokyo EDITION Toranomon
    • 2. 10:20 Imperial Palace (Outer Gardens, East Gardens)
    • 3. 12:30 Nezu Shrine
    • 4. 13:10 Lunch　Menuki Shinobu
    • 5. 13:40 Yanaka Ginza
    • 6. 14:00 Senso-ji Temple
    • 7. 15:35 Meiji Shrine
    • 8. 16:15 Dismissal　Takeshita Street

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of Yanaka and Nezu in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a close-knit group visiting from North America, with one visiting Japan for the first time and another who had been to Japan many times before. I guided them according to the requests they had shared in advance, and I believe they were satisfied with the tour overall. For lunch, I took them to a noodle restaurant on the way from Nezu Shrine to Yanaka Ginza, and they were delighted, saying it was very delicious. Since they had watched "SHOGUN" on television and already had some knowledge about shoguns, I believe they understood my explanations about the emperor and the shogun very well.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKamiyacho～Hibiya180JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)～Nezu180JPY
    Section 3TrainNippori～Asakusa330JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa～Meiji-jingumae260JPY
    Total950JPY

    Tour Report by Nobu

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Nagoya / Aichi Full-day Private Custom Tour with National

    Nagoya / Aichi Full-day Private Custom Tour with National

    Nagoya / Aichi Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. Meet up @Nagoya Port Garden Pier 9:00
    • 2. Move to Nagoya Castle and tour the Honmaru Palace and the area around the castle tower 9:00～11:00
    • 3. Lunch @"Housa" near Nagoya Castle 11:00～11:45
    • 4. Move to Tokugawaen and tour Tokugawaen (Japanese garden) 11:45～12:40・・Move to Tokugawaen by taxi
    • 5. Move to Oasis 21 and tour the shopping area 12:40～13:10・・Move to Oasis 21 by taxi
    • 6. Move to Atsuta Shrine and tour the main hall, treasure hall, and Kusanagi-kan 13:10～14:30・・Move to Atsuta Shrine by subway
    • 7. Move to Nagoya Port Garden Pier and disband 14:30～15:00・・Move to Nagoya Port by subway

    What's a Private One-Day Nagoya Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of three visiting from Europe. In the itinerary agreed upon in advance with the guests, the Tokugawa Art Museum had been included, but during the previous day's guiding I confirmed that, due to a special exhibition being held at the museum, there would be long waiting times both at the entrance and inside. Therefore, I proposed to the guests that we remove the Tokugawa Art Museum from the itinerary and add Atsuta Shrine instead, and they kindly agreed. As a result, we were able to cover the entire itinerary of Nagoya Castle, lunch, Tokugawa Garden, Oasis 21, and Atsuta Shrine within the scheduled time. Since crowds were also expected at lunch, we went to the restaurant early and were able to eat without any waiting time, but in just the roughly 40 minutes during our meal, a long line of people waiting formed in front of the restaurant. Overall, I believe the guests were satisfied with the tour.

    Click here for more details: Nagoya / Aichi Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNagoya Port～Nagoya Castle270JPY
    Section 2SubwaySakae (Aichi Prefecture)～Atsuta Jingu Nishi240JPY
    Section 3TrainAtsuta Jingu Nishi～Nagoya Port270JPY
    Total780JPY

    Tour Report by Todd

    Hello, guests of JGA tours, I’m Takao (Todd) Miura, a national licensed guide of Japan.
    I have experiences as a professional guide over 5 years. The themes in which I’m well versed include castles, Japaneses landscape gardens, museums, festivals, and traditinal Japanese arts and crafts.
    Nagoya City and Aichi Prefecture, where I live, have many attractive sites to visit. I would like to introduce you to the most popular sites and spots in this area.
    I really wish to have a very nice time with you as a guide of your tour in Nagoya and Aichi Prefecture.

    Request Booking

    Feb 16, 2026
    B9190RXcolleenm
    The Nagoya walking tour was great!
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Todd was the perfect…

    Oct 2, 2025
    Jeffrey_B
    Nagoya with Todd Miura
    Viator review: Nagoya / Aichi Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    A great 4 hour…

    Sep 17, 2025
    sjhppy
    Todd Was A Fabulous Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    I highly recommend Todd! He…

    Jul 22, 2025
    guelphturfgrassinstu
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    We enjoyed this tour with a knowledgeable guide. Todd shared…

  • Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. Meet in the lobby of Hotel 11:00
    • 2. Move to Nagoya Castle and tour Honmaru Palace and the area around the castle tower 11:00-12:40・・Move to Nagoya Castle by subway
    • 3. Move to Tokugawaen and tour Tokugawaen (Japanese garden) and the Tokugawa Art Museum 12:40-14:10・・Move to Tokugawaen by taxi
    • 4. Move to Oasis 21 and tour the area around Mirai Tower 14:10-14:40・・Move to Oasis 21 by taxi
    • 5. Return to Hotel inside Nagoya Station and disband 14:40-15:00・・Move to Nagoya Station by subway

    What Is a Private Nagoya Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nagoya Castle, Tokugawa Garden, and the Tokugawa Art Museum The guests were visitors from Asia. They enjoyed viewing the Hommaru Palace at Nagoya Castle, the autumn foliage scenery of Tokugawaen Garden, and the exhibits at the Tokugawa Art Museum. On this day, the Tokugawa Art Museum was holding a special exhibition featuring the National Treasure "Tale of Genji Picture Scrolls." Because it was a weekend during the autumn sightseeing season, the museum was extremely crowded, with a 30-minute wait before entering, and there was also a wait inside due to a limit on the number of visitors allowed into the special exhibition room. For viewing in the special exhibition room, we chose to look from behind rather than from the very front row of the exhibits, so that we could view them as smoothly as possible. Although the guests had said that Oasis 21 could be removed from the list of sites to visit, since it was on the way back, we stopped by briefly so they could take some photos, and they were satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNagoya～Nagoya Castle240JPY
    Section 2SubwaySakae (Aichi Prefecture)～Nagoya210JPY
    Total450JPY

    Tour Report by Todd

    Hello, guests of JGA tours, I’m Takao (Todd) Miura, a national licensed guide of Japan.
    I have experiences as a professional guide over 5 years. The themes in which I’m well versed include castles, Japaneses landscape gardens, museums, festivals, and traditinal Japanese arts and crafts.
    Nagoya City and Aichi Prefecture, where I live, have many attractive sites to visit. I would like to introduce you to the most popular sites and spots in this area.
    I really wish to have a very nice time with you as a guide of your tour in Nagoya and Aichi Prefecture.

    Request Booking

    Feb 16, 2026
    B9190RXcolleenm
    The Nagoya walking tour was great!
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Todd was the perfect…

    Oct 2, 2025
    Jeffrey_B
    Nagoya with Todd Miura
    Viator review: Nagoya / Aichi Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    A great 4 hour…

    Sep 17, 2025
    sjhppy
    Todd Was A Fabulous Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    I highly recommend Todd! He…

    Jul 22, 2025
    guelphturfgrassinstu
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    We enjoyed this tour with a knowledgeable guide. Todd shared…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine & Shinsaibashi

    Osaka in Half a Day: Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine & Shinsaibashi

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 09:15 @ Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
    • 10:45 @ Namba Doguyasuji Shopping Street
    • 11:30 @ Kuromon Market
    • 12:15 @ Dotonbori
    • 13:00 @ Shinsaibashi
    • 13:30 Disband @ Subway Shinsaibashi Station

    Title: What Is a Private Osaka Tour Like? Visiting Sumiyoshi Taisha, Doguyasuji, and Kuromon Market — A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from North America. The group visited Sumiyoshi Taisha, which was lively with an event praying for an abundant harvest and with families celebrating Shichi-Go-San, and the guests thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere. They experienced worship at the shrine, picked up the small "Go-Dai-Riki" pebbles from the popular power spot, and purchased the small pouches used as charms. Afterward, they showed great interest while exploring Doguyasuji and Kuromon Market. I presented them with handmade drawstring pouches, which they were delighted to receive. As we moved at a somewhat slower pace, the tour was extended by about an hour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainUmeda (Subway)～Namba (Subway)240JPY
    Section 2TrainNamba (Nankai Line)～Sumiyoshi Taisha240JPY
    Section 3TrainSumiyoshi Taisha～Namba (Nankai Line)240JPY
    Total720JPY

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

    This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
    I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
    real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
    if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

    Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
    that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
    and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
    foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
    Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
    explanation for these three foods.

    1) Tako-yaki
    Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
    octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
    2) Okonomi-yaki
    This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
    Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
    3) Kushi-katsu
    Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
    ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

    Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
    that you like them very much.

    I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
    and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
    great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

    Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
    Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
    Yama

    Request Booking

    Sep 27, 2026
    Ross_W
    Fun with Hidden Gems
    Viator review: Osaka Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour, Licensed Guide
    Our guide Yama was so…

    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Great experience
    Yama was great, he showed us around and explained…

    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

  • Kyoto: Nijo Castle & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto: Nijo Castle & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ Hotel
    • 9:30-10:30 Nijo Castle
    • 11:10-12:00 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 12:10～12:40　Lunch @ Bien　
    • 13:30～14:15　Tofuku-ji Temple
    • 14:30-15:30　Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 15:30　Dismissal @ Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour of Nijo Castle, Kiyomizu-dera, Tofuku-ji, and Fushimi Inari Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. They were both strong walkers and gracious, smiling throughout the day, which made for a very pleasant guiding experience overall. All destinations followed the guests' wishes. At Nijo Castle, they asked eager questions about topics such as the shogun's family system. Today we also walked one full loop around the castle. Next, we moved on to Kiyomizu-dera. We got off the bus at Kiyomizu-zaka, but Chawan-zaka, which is usually relatively uncrowded, was even busier than usual. After arriving, when I explained the history of Kiyomizu-dera and described why one of the guardian lion-dogs has its mouth open, they understood and were satisfied. Although they were impressed by the Buddhist statues in the main hall and the construction of the stage, it was so crowded that they wished to exit via a shortcut. I suggested having lunch before heading to the next destination, and since a new ramen shop partway up Chawan-zaka was relatively empty, we decided to eat there. They enjoyed the lunch. We then moved on to Tofuku-ji. As they were strong walkers, rather than returning all the way to the bus stop, I suggested walking to the Keihan station, but this area was also more crowded than usual. When we got off at Tofukuji Station, perhaps because it was the autumn foliage season, there were quite a lot of people even along the way. Even before entering the middle gate, there were many people lined up for Tsutenkyo Bridge, so I asked, "There is an admission fee to see the bridge, the abbot's hall, and the Sanmon gate—how would you like to proceed?" They said, "Just the abbot's hall is fine," so I guided them toward the abbot's hall while showing them the tosu (temple restroom building) and the Sanmon gate. They had a good impression of the abbot's hall. Since we exited from the south gate, we decided to walk to Fushimi Inari Taisha. Along the way, they were very surprised to see a line of cars coming from the direction of Fushimi Inari Taisha. Fushimi Inari Taisha was also more crowded than usual. However, they happened to witness a kagura performance and watched it with great interest. At the inner shrine, a shrine-visit blessing was also being held, which they found interesting to observe. After they had seen everything, they said they would stay there for a while and that was enough, so we concluded the tour. The photo was taken at the Ninomaru Garden of Nijo Castle.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHorikawa Nakadachiuri／Kyoto City Bus～Nijojo-mae230JPY
    Section 2TrainNijojo-mae～Higashiyama (Kyoto)220JPY
    Section 3TrainHigashiyama Sanjo (Subway Higashiyama Station)／Kyoto City Bus～Kiyomizu-michi／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4TrainKiyomizu-Gojo～Tofukuji180JPY
    Total860JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 10:00 Meet up @ Hotel Century Southern Tower (2-2-1 Yoyogi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 10:15 Shibuya <Intersection → Shibuya Center Street → Hachiko Statue>
    • 3) 11:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 4) 12:10 Hibiya Park & Lunch @ Hibiya Sarow (1-1 Hibiya Park, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo)
    • 5) 14:00 Imperial Palace Main Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Outer Garden
    • ↓ On the way, Ueno dining district
    • 6) 15:15 Asakusa <Nakamise Street → Sensoji Temple → Nishi-Sando Street → Okuyama Omairimachi → Hanayashiki Street → Hoppy Street → Koen Street → Orange Street → Shin-Nakamise Street → Metro Street → Kannon Street>
    • 7) 16:00 Dismiss @ Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station ticket gate

    What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Covering Meiji Shrine, Hibiya Park, the Imperial Palace, and Asakusa The guests were a group visiting from North America. In their pre-tour messages, they asked, "Can we visit all the places listed on the tour website?" and "Do we need reservations to enter shrines and temples?" After I replied with my answers and a proposed itinerary, the guests happily agreed. They then contacted me saying they "might visit Skytree," so I replied with information on facilities that should be reserved and a request to "book Skytree for after 4:00." There was no further contact until the day of the tour, and when I confirmed the itinerary at the hotel meeting point, they told me they had not reserved Skytree. Freed from the strict "must finish by 4:00" constraint, I began the tour with peace of mind (though still aiming to finish by 4:00). I had the guests purchase the "Tokyo Free Ticket" (¥1,600) at JR Shinjuku Station. This was everyone's first visit to Japan. Perhaps wishing to trace their roots, they were very interested in Japan's history, traditions, and culture, as well as typical Japanese foods (sushi, tempura, omurice, wagyu beef BBQ skewers, ramen). I received questions everywhere we went and answered as appropriate (I emailed the names and addresses of restaurants). At Meiji Shrine, it was crowded due to a special chrysanthemum exhibition and other events, so we skipped the worship, but it was wonderful to see a rarely seen procession of the head priest. We took a lunch break at Hibiya Park, where the autumn foliage was magnificent. I tried to guide them to a famous restaurant in the park, but there was already a line of 20 people. While the guests waited in line, I checked the situation at other restaurants and found one with open seats. I quickly guided the guests to the other restaurant, and we enjoyed a relaxed lunch (four of the guests ordered katsu curry! By their kindness, I was treated to smoked tofu). Afterward, I guided them to the main gate of the Imperial Palace and the Nijubashi Bridge (the iron bridge was under repair). They also admired the magnificent pine trees of the outer garden. In Asakusa, we visited Senso-ji Temple. One of the guests loves sweet potatoes, so I guided them to Funawa, Oimoya-san Koshin, and Imoyasu, a shop specializing in roasted sweet potatoes. Everyone shared Koshin's candied sweet potatoes at a spot off Nakamise Street, and they were very pleased (by their kindness, I received one as well). We had some time before the parting hour, so I guided them along one street after another. One of the guests bought strawberry daifuku and strawberry candy at Asakusa Soratsuki Uranaka branch and shared them with the group. They were interested in Asakusa's animal cafes, so I showed them a few locations and then headed to Asakusa Station. Time flew by so quickly that I forgot to take a photo of all the members. I only have one photo of a guest holding a strawberry candy, but they happily consented to its use for promotional purposes. I explained the details of the route back to the hotel both verbally and by email, and we parted with smiles at the ticket gate.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Shibuya170JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya～Harajuku150JPY
    Section 3SubwayKita-sando～Kasumigaseki (Tokyo)210JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijubashimae～Yushima180JPY
    Section 5SubwayUeno-hirokoji～Asakusa180JPY
    Total890JPY

    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!

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    Sep 6, 2026
    Paullyb
    Highly professional and relaxed tour exceeding our expectations
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tachi…

    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…

  • Tokyo: Senso-ji Temple & Tsukiji Market

    Tokyo: Senso-ji Temple & Tsukiji Market

    Tokyo Family-Friendly Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    November, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:55　Meet up @ Hotel
    • 09:50　Senso-ji Temple
    • 11:00　Ueno Ameyoko
    • 12:00　Akihabara
    • 12:40　Lunch @ Kaiten Sushi Hyakkan (Akihabara)
    • 14:10　Tsukiji Market
    • 15:05　Disband @ Hotel

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They planned to travel to Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara after sightseeing in Tokyo. At Sensoji Temple, they listened with great interest to explanations about the differences between temples and shrines, as well as about Kaminarimon Gate. They also purchased a variety of souvenirs along Nakamise Street. At Ameyoko, they explored many shops, and some of the guests bought and enjoyed ice cream. In Akihabara, they showed interest in anime shops and enjoyed sushi for lunch. At Tsukiji Market, they were interested in the many shops of the outer market. Since I accommodated the guests' requests as they wished, I believe they were satisfied.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Family-Friendly Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShimbashi～Asakusa210JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Ueno180JPY
    Section 3SubwayUeno-hirokoji～Suehirocho (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 4SubwayAkihabara～Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 5SubwayTsukiji～Shimbashi180JPY
    Total930JPY

    Tour Report by Seizo

    I am Seizo Kamiuto, National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English). I was born in Kagoshima City in Kyushu (Southern part of Japan) and grew up there until the graduation from a high school. I came to Tokyo to enter a University in Tokyo and since then, I have lived in Tokyo for more than 40 years and therefore I know Tokyo and its suburbs and Kagoshima City very well. After retiring from an IT company, I have been working as a Guide Interpreter of English since March 2018. I have guided many overseas guests to the popular sightseeing spots in Tokyo, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji area (Kawaguchiko Lake etc.), Hakone, Nikko, Yokohama, Kawagoe and Kagoshima and so on. I have received good reviews from many guests. I can explain the history and the culture of Japan in detail. I look forward to an opportunity to guide you in Japan. Thank you. Seizo Kamiuto

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    Sep 27, 2026
    jonaJ5014ZK
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Seizo was a tremendously fabulous…

    Sep 11, 2026
    M7402TTsharonp
    Higly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing tour with Seizi Kaminto.…

    Sep 8, 2026
    OnAir57127583503
    Amazing Experience with Kamakura Day Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    We had an excellent time with Seizo Kamiuto as our…

    Sep 4, 2026
    B2319ZKjoseo
    Pleasant stroll through HISTORY
    Tripadvisor review: Kawagoe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a great time learning about…