Category: Uncategorized

  • Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:30 Meet @ Himeji Station Central Ticket Gate
    • 2. 09:35 @ Castle View
    • 3. 10:10 @ Himeji Castle (Nishinomaru Hyakken Corridor, Main Keep)
    • 4. 12:30 @ Kokoen Garden
    • 5. 13:30 Disband @ Egret Himeji (Rooftop)

    Title: What's a Private Himeji Castle Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests today were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. While the guide was waiting at the meeting point ahead of the scheduled start time, the guests suddenly appeared, so we were able to begin the tour earlier than planned. First, at Castle View I explained the historical background of the construction of Himeji Castle and the layout of the castle grounds. We then visited Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden, and Egret Himeji, ending the tour on the rooftop of Egret Himeji. At Himeji Castle we walked quite a lot, including the Nishinomaru Hyakken Corridor and the main keep, but the guests remained energetic. The guide had considered taking a short break after touring Himeji Castle, but it seemed the guests did not need one. The day before, they had walked about 30 km in Hiroshima, including Itsukushima Shrine and Mount Misen. Since they wanted to have lunch after the tour, I explained where to find a sushi restaurant and we parted ways. They kindly told me that they had enjoyed the tour.

    Click here for more details: Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Norio

    Hello, my name is Norio Oki, a Government-Certified Tour Guide in Japan.
    I specialize in guiding visitors through the beautiful and historic regions of Himeji and Kobe.

    My expertise includes Japanese history, traditional culture, castles, and sake. I enjoy sharing not only facts, but also the stories and spirit behind each place.

    In Himeji, I offer guided tours of Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden, Shoshazan Engyoji Temple, and Nadagiku Sake Brewery.
    In Kobe, I guide guests through the Nada Sake Breweries area, Mt. Rokko, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, Harborland, Meriken Park, the Kitano District, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, and the lively Motomachi Shopping Street.

    Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local experiences, I will create a personalized tour tailored to your interests.

    If you’re planning to visit Himeji or Kobe, I would be delighted to be your guide.
    I look forward to meeting you soon!

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    Jul 7, 2026
    77guye
    The best way to experience Himeji Castle
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    What a great way to…

    May 30, 2026
    karenpG5549XU
    Loved our tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour with Norio, would highly…

    May 28, 2026
    TrailBlazer741528
    Kobe Variety.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our delightful guide, Norio, was knowledgeable and a master at…

    May 23, 2026
    sarahpR5911DJ
    Himeji castle with Norio
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learnt lots about Himeji castle and it…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:00 Meet at Hotel Tokyo
    • 2. 8:45 Tsukiji
    • 3. 10:30 Asakusa
    • 4. 12:30 Lunch (Asakusa Umaimon Azuma)
    • 5. 13:15 Kappabashi Kitchenware Street
    • 6. 14:00 Dismissal in front of Asakusa Hat Coffee

    Tour Route: 09:00 Meeting point: Tsukiji Tour report: The guests were a group of four visiting from North America. They had arrived in Japan two days earlier and were spending about two weeks in the country, visiting Hakone, Kyoto, and other destinations in addition to Tokyo. It was everyone's first visit to Japan. The tour covered Tsukiji, Asakusa, and Kappabashi Kitchen Town. During our advance discussion, the guests had expressed a wish to visit many places in Asakusa, such as Flower Miffy, so I allocated a longer stay in Asakusa. It was drizzling when the tour began, but fortunately by the time we started exploring Tsukiji it had cleared up enough that umbrellas were hardly needed. The guests enthusiastically took photos and enjoyed each location while listening to my explanations. When I asked about their lunch preferences, one of the guests wanted sushi, while the others said they did not eat much sushi, so we went to Azuma in Asakusa, which offers a wide-ranging menu. Since they had a reservation at Hat Coffee in Asakusa at 14:00, I guided them there at the end and concluded the tour. They also had a reservation for a Sumo Show with Dinner in Asakusa at 18:00, so during lunch I explained how to return from Asakusa to their hotel by subway.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTochomae～Tsukiji Market280JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji～Asakusa290JPY
    Total570JPY

    Tour Report by Haru

    Hello, I’m Haruhiko Yokota, a certified tour guide based in Tokyo and a top-ranked guide registered with JGA Inc. Please feel free to call me Haru.
    I’ve been living in Tokyo for about 30 years and conducted close to 200 tours between 2023 and 2025. I’m very familiar with most major sightseeing spots in and around Tokyo, ranging from traditional temples and shrines to modern attractions. I also enjoy traveling throughout Japan, which has given me extensive knowledge of popular destinations across the country.
    I’m happy to customize your tour to match your interests and preferences. If you have any requests or questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. I’ll do my best to make your tour both enjoyable and memorable!

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    Jul 13, 2026
    529gregj
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Haru is an excellent guide in Tokyo
    Haru (Haruhiko…

    Jul 12, 2026
    Felice R
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Touring gardens in Tokyo with the perfect guide , Haru…

    Jul 9, 2026
    mariee530
    An incredible walking tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This tour was beyond expectations!…

    Jun 30, 2026
    simonegN55VE
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fabulous walking tour with Haru
    Haru was fabulous! We booked the tour…

  • Kyoto: to 09:50 Kiyomizu-dera Temple & to 13:10 Lunch at Sushiro

    Kyoto: to 09:50 Kiyomizu-dera Temple & to 13:10 Lunch at Sushiro

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Meet at Hotel Kyoto Sanjyo Premier
    • 08:50 to 09:50 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 10:10 to 10:50 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 11:30 to 12:25 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 12:35 to 13:10 Lunch at Sushiro
    • 13:30 to 14:10 Sagano Bamboo Forest
    • 14:30 Dismiss at Arashiyama Monkey Park

    What's a Private Family-Friendly Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. They originally came from Europe, a region I visited many times for work in the past, so at first we talked more about that region than about the tour itself. During the tour, one of the guests wanted to return to the hotel, so instead of going to Gion as planned, we decided to head to the monkey park. As there was not enough time for me to accompany the group all the way to the monkey park, we said our goodbyes near the entrance.

    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 !!

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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…

  • Kyoto: Kyoto Station & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto: Kyoto Station & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:45. Kyoto Station
    • 10:15-11:50 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Path, Tenryu-ji Temple
    • 12:30-13:15 Nijo Castle
    • 13:30-14:20 Lunch
    • 14:45-14:15 Nishiki Market
    • 14:45-15:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 15:55-16:00 Gion, Zuikogama

    What Does a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama, Nijo Castle, and Fushimi Inari The guests were a group visiting from North America. They were very calm and gentle, and since one of them had studied Japanese at school for three years, we occasionally spoke in Japanese as we headed to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. We viewed the hydrangeas at Tenryu-ji Temple, crossed the Togetsukyo Bridge, and made our way to Nijo Castle. After seeing the Ninomaru Palace and its gardens, and since the guests had never been to a Japanese conveyor-belt sushi restaurant, I took them to a sushi restaurant. They were delighted, and after buying souvenirs at Nishiki Market, we headed to Fushimi Inari Taisha. I guided them to the Omokaru-ishi stones and the Nenoue-no-Matsu pine, they bought souvenirs, and we then headed to Gion. As we were short on time, we simply viewed the area from the car, and I took them to a pottery studio where they already had a reservation, which concluded the tour. They were very pleased and kindly gave the driver and me a souvenir from their home region as a token of thanks.

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

    Tour Report by Harumi

    Hello, my name is Harumi, and I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter in Japan. I have been actively involved in volunteer activities for many years, sharing my passion for Japanese culture and history. As a kimono dressing instructor, I can provide hands-on kimono experiences and guide tours. Additionally, I have extensive knowledge of sumo wrestling, making my tours ideal for those interested in this fascinating sport. I am also well-versed in Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings (Jūdenken) and can introduce historical townscapes dating back to the Edo period. If you are interested, I would be happy to show you around the sake brewing process in the Nada region.

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    Jul 11, 2026
    Rahul_P
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Private Tour
    Highly recommended if looking for a comfortable tour…

    Jul 7, 2026
    782MarkS782
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Harumi and Kyoto
    This was amazing – truly memory making. Harumi is…

    Jun 25, 2026
    JenCBear
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great visit with a great guide Harumi
    Harumi was a fantastic guide…

    Jun 21, 2026
    Andrew_M
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Amazing guided experience
    Harumi is an amazing guide.…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: @ Egret Himeji Rooftop & @ Himeji Castle

    Hyogo in Half a Day: @ Egret Himeji Rooftop & @ Himeji Castle

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet @ JR Himeji Station
    • 10:15 @ Egret Himeji Rooftop
    • 10:30 @ Himeji Castle
    • 13:30 Disband @ Himeji Station Underground Restaurant District

    Can You Do a Private Himeji Castle Tour from Himeji Station? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Although there was a message that they would be a little late on the day, we managed to meet at the scheduled time. One of the guests had difficulty walking, so the group moved very slowly with frequent rests along the way. I was quite worried about whether it would be possible to use the steep stairs inside Himeji Castle, but with support we managed to climb all the way up to the main keep. However, since the guests were tired and hungry, we decided to end the tour after finishing the visit to Himeji Castle. As one of the guests wanted to eat "udon," we headed toward a popular udon restaurant near Himeji Castle, but it was closed, so I guided them to a sushi and udon restaurant in the dining area under Himeji Station, where we parted ways about 30 minutes early. I presented them with a handmade drawstring pouch, and they were very pleased and said they loved the pattern.

    Click here for more details: Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    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

    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…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Diane_B
    Viator review: Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Yama was amazing!!
    Our tour guide…

    Jul 4, 2026
    Navigator661725
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful time!
    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…

  • Kyoto: Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion & Kinkakuji (500)

    Kyoto: Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion & Kinkakuji (500)

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion
    • 09:00 Fushimiinari (0)
    • 10:30 Kiyomizudera (500)
    • Sannenzaka by walking
    • Lunch（Tamejiro Kiyomizuzaka Store）
    • 　　 Yasaka-no-to by walking
    • Yasakakoshindo
    • 13:30 Kinkakuji (500)
    • 14:30 Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion
    • 　　End of the tour

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kiyomizu-dera and Sightseeing The guests were a group visiting from North America. Originally the group had planned to skip lunch, but after finishing at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, some of the guests appeared tired, so we took a break and had lunch. For shopping, the guests bought various small items, including some Kiyomizu-yaki pottery. One of the guests tried lifting the iron staff that had been relocated to the entrance of Kiyomizu-dera Temple, but was unable to lift it. In the end, since we were running short on time, we skipped the visit to the tea shop, and as some of the guests seemed a little tired, I escorted them back to their hotel and concluded the tour there.

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

    Tour Report by Kazz

    I’m Ryoichi Kazuma and my nickname is “Kazz”. I live in Kyotanabe city next to Kyoto city. I want guests to enjoy Kyoto by seeing and experiencing not only from outside but also from inside. I offer various information from daily matters to traditional cultures. Most destinations in Kyoto are located on the eastern side or the western side. As I want to guide guests to as many destinations as possible, I make an efficient itinerary and recommend a taxi use to save time. Additionally, I take pictures at various spots and finally share the link to my storage. By doing so, guests can download their favorite pictures from my storage. Please enjoy Kyoto night and day!

    Request Booking

    Jul 14, 2026
    T6871WWricharde
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kazz gave a great one on one 8 hour custom tour…

    Jun 5, 2026
    mateoe216
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Would book again
    The tour with Kazuma-san was absolutely great. As someone…

    May 27, 2026
    Leah_D
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely recommend!
    I definitely recommend seeing some of the sights with a…

    May 26, 2026
    sheilacL3330KS
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very enthusiastic and knowledgable guide. Much appreciated
    Kazz was an excellent guide…

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Hakone-Yumoto Station & Odawara Station

    Kanagawa in One Day: Hakone-Yumoto Station & Odawara Station

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meeting point: Hakone-Yumoto Station
    • 11:09 Depart Hakone-Yumoto Station
    • (Hakone Tozan Railway)
    • 11:40 Chokoku-no-Mori Station
    • The Hakone Open-Air Museum The Hakone Open-Air Museum
    • 12:50 Depart Chokoku-no-Mori Station
    • (Hakone Tozan Railway)
    • Gora Station
    • (Hakone Tozan Cable Car)
    • Sounzan Station
    • (Hakone Ropeway)
    • 13:15 Arrive Owakudani Station
    • Owakudani Owakudani Observation Deck
    • Owakudani Kuro-tamago Hall
    • 14:00 Depart Owakudani Station
    • (Hakone Ropeway)
    • 14:20 Arrive Togendai Station
    • 14:30 Depart Togendai Port
    • (Hakone Pirate Ship)
    • 15:10 Arrive Moto-Hakone Port
    • Moto-Hakone Lunch: Bakery & Table
    • Hakone Shrine
    • 16:15 Depart Moto-Hakone Port Bus Stop
    • (Hakone Tozan Bus)
    • 17:00 Arrive Odawara Station
    • 17:00 Disband: Odawara Station, Shinkansen Ticket Gate

    What's a Private Day Trip from Tokyo to Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. Three days ago, they arrived at Narita Airport via connecting flights and took a taxi to their hotel. They are staying at a hotel in Shinjuku. Today was a day trip to Hakone from Tokyo. Until yesterday, they had been sightseeing around the city. This is a 12-day visit to Japan. Tomorrow they plan a day trip to Nikko. From the day after next, they will travel around Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara, and plan to return home from Kansai Airport. They said, "We really wanted to see Mount Fuji from Hakone," and "We wanted to go somewhere a little quieter rather than Tokyo." We were not caught in the rain, but the clouds were thick, so we were unable to see Mount Fuji. First, we went to the Hakone Open-Air Museum. I explained "the origins and current state of the Open-Air Museum." Since one of the guests loves art, the sculptures were viewed with great enthusiasm. In particular, they mentioned being a fan of "Henry Moore," who is from England, and eagerly took photographs. At the shop, they purchased "postcards" as a souvenir. After this, we went to Owakudani via Gora and Sounzan. Mist had settled in, and the weather was almost cold. I explained "the origins of Hakone" and "an overview and history of Owakudani." There were questions such as "Is Owakudani an active volcano? Has it ever erupted?" and "Is Mount Fuji also an active volcano? When did it erupt?" They purchased and sampled the "black eggs." They said, "The smell of sulfur is incredible." Furthermore, we took the ropeway to Togendai Port. We boarded the Hakone Pirate Ship. I explained "the history and current state of Lake Ashi." Although it was a little chilly, we went up to the topmost observation deck. They said, "It's a beautiful lake and it feels wonderful." There were also questions such as "Can you swim in it?" "What kind of fish are there?" and "Does it freeze in winter?" We arrived at Moto-Hakone Port and had a light lunch. After this, we walked to Hakone Shrine. I explained "the history of Hakone Shrine." We visited the main hall, and I explained the method of worship. The torii gate on the lake had a long line of people waiting their turn for photographs, so we took photos from the side. They asked, "Why do so many people line up just to take a photo?" They also commented, "Everywhere in Japan the towns are clean. There's no litter lying around," and "Everyone is so polite." Since they said, "We have a JR Pass, so we'd like to return by Shinkansen from Odawara," I saw them off at the Shinkansen entrance of Odawara Station, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassHakone Free Pass～Hakone Free Pass6,000JPY
    Total6,000JPY

    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…

  • Kanagawa: Hase & Motomachi

    Kanagawa: Hase & Motomachi

    Kamakura from Yokohama by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: Hotel New Grand, Yokohama
    • 10:10 Hotel
    • (Minivan)
    • 11:00 Arrive Hase
    • Hase Kotoku-in Temple・Great Buddha of Kamakura
    • 11:30 Depart Hase
    • (Minivan)
    • via Yuigahama
    • 12:00 Arrive Kenchoji Temple
    • Kenchoji Temple Kenchoji Temple
    • 12:30 Depart Kenchoji Temple
    • (Minivan)
    • 12:45 Arrive Hachimangu-mae
    • Hachimangu-mae Lunch: Soba restaurant: Minemoto
    • Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
    • 14:00 Depart Hachimangu-mae
    • (Minivan)
    • 14:15 Arrive Jomyoji-mae
    • Hokokuji Temple Hokokuji Temple
    • 15:00 Depart Jomyoji-mae
    • (Minivan)
    • 16:00 Arrive Motomachi
    • 16:00 Disband: Hotel New Grand, Yokohama

    Title: What Is a Private Minivan Day Tour of Kamakura Like for Cruise Passengers? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They had arrived at Haneda Airport the previous day and taken a taxi to their hotel in Yokohama. The main purpose of this visit to Japan was a 12-day cruise around Japan departing from Yokohama Port, starting the next day. They planned to go sightseeing at various places at each port of call. For today, the request was to enjoy sightseeing in Kamakura. Some members of the group had difficulty walking and could only move slowly, needing assistance from the driver and myself when getting in and out of the vehicle. In addition, since it was sometimes hard for the guests to hear, I often had to repeat explanations loudly several times. From the hotel, we first went to Kotokuin as requested. As it was a weekend, Kamakura was extremely crowded and traffic was heavy. Along the way, I explained about the history of Kamakura, the history of Edo and Tokyo, the Meiji Restoration, and so on. I also explained the differences between Buddhism and Shinto. There were questions such as, "Do all Japanese people believe in Buddhism?", "What other religions do people follow?", "When was this built?", and "What is it made of?" They enthusiastically took photos in front of the Great Buddha. The site was very crowded with many tourists. Along the way, they also mentioned, "We plan to go to Nara from Kobe Port, so we would like to see the Great Buddha of Nara too." Thanks to the driver's arrangement, we viewed Yuigahama Beach from the car and then went to Kenchoji. This was also very crowded with tourists. I explained about the history and origins of Kenchoji. However, the main hall was under renovation and repair, so we were unable to go inside. As the guests had requested in advance, we took a lunch break. We went to a soba restaurant near Tsurugaoka Hachimangu that the driver had introduced and reserved. Everyone relaxed while having a beer. From there, we walked slowly to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu. As it was difficult for them to climb the stairs to the main hall, we strolled slowly up to the bottom of the stairs. Here I again explained about the history of Kamakura, the Kamakura shogunate, and the samurai government. The relationship between the Emperor and the shogunate and samurai proved somewhat difficult to convey. From in front of the shrine, we took the minivan to Hokokuji. I explained about the history and current state of Hokokuji. This too was very crowded. We walked slowly through the bamboo grove within the temple grounds. The guests commented, "It feels very safe," "There is no litter on the streets," "There are no trash cans around," and "Everyone is so polite." I saw the guests off at the hotel, and the tour ended.

    Click here for more details: Kamakura from Yokohama by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    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.

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    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…

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    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

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  • Kyoto: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Gion

    Kyoto: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Gion

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Hotel meetup
    • 9:10 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 9:30 Tenryu-ji Temple
    • 10:20 Togetsukyo Bridge
    • 11:00 Fushimi Inari
    • 12:00 Lunch
    • 13:10 Yasaka Pagoda
    • 13:30 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 14:15 Higashiyama Area
    • 15:10 Gion
    • 16:25 Drop off near the hotel and end the tour

    What's a Private Family Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. There were some concerns because the group included young children, but things went smoothly since one of the guests kept the children well-behaved and another younger member of the group stayed calm and composed. The itinerary naturally centered around the children. It was helpful that we were often able to secure seats on buses and other transport. The morning was comfortable, but it became hot in the afternoon. The food court at Fushimi Inari was nicely uncrowded. Overall, there were relatively few tourists. However, school excursions were at their peak, and groups of junior high school students were noticeable everywhere. After Gion, I saw the group off near their accommodation, ending the tour. The photo was taken at Ryoanji Temple.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 2TrainSaga-Arashiyama～Inari240JPY
    Section 3TrainFushimi Inari～Tofukuji180JPY
    Section 4OtherTofukuji / Kyoto City Bus～Kiyomizu-michi230JPY
    Section 5OtherGion～Kyoto Station230JPY
    Total1,120JPY

    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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    Jul 24, 2026
    Trail65429092687
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Tour
    Kazua Sumi is a very accomplished guide.He has deep…

    Jul 23, 2026
    489caelinp
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Guided Tour
    My friend and I had a great experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    margaretsM7923ON
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Great way to see Kyoto
    Wonderful tour and exceptional guide.

    Jul 9, 2026
    Sandra_B
    Kazuo was great and…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazuo was great and provided…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Itinerary check & Ramen

    Kyoto in One Day: Itinerary check & Ramen

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 14:05 Meet
    • 14:10 Itinerary check
    • 15:00 Kinkaku-ji
    • 16:20 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 17:50 Nishiki Market
    • 18:20 Ramen
    • 19:13 Disband at the Kyoto Station platform

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like from Nara? A Licensed Guide's Report I had heard the group was coming from Nara, so we arranged to meet at the JR Kyoto Station Shinkansen Central Gate. However, it seemed the guests were waiting at the JR Central Ticket Gate. Since we could not find each other, they sent me photos of the surrounding area via a messaging app, and we were able to meet up. As I had heard that one of the guests could not walk long distances, I recommended traveling by taxi at key points. I had contacted Kiyomizu-dera in advance and received permission to go up to the temple grounds above Chawanzaka, so I was able to guide all of the guests there. We had planned to visit Fushimi Inari Taisha after having ramen, but as some of the guests were tired, I responded to their request and we parted ways at the JR platform.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto～Kitaoji260JPY
    Section 2SubwayKitaoji Bus Terminal (Kitaoji Subway Station) / Kyoto City Bus～Kinkaku-ji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3SubwayShijo (Kyoto Municipal)～Kyoto220JPY
    Section 4OtherKyoto Station～Kyoto Station150JPY
    Total860JPY

    Tour Report by Mizu

    Hello, my name is Mizuho Yoshikawa. Please call me Mizu and my name means rice and water in Japanese.
    I’ve been a tour guide more than 200 times since the spring of 2023 in Kobe, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Wakayama and Kochi. My tour is always original and new, depending on the guest’s preferences, encounters, seasons and weather.
    In Kyoto, one of my tours is to climb Mt. Kurama. It is about 1 hour from the city of Kyoto by train, it is a very quiet and beautiful mountain.
    In Osaka, which is called the kitchen of Japan, I am also in charge of food tour.
    In Nara, in addition to the Great Budda Hall, I guide guests to the temple with a really great view and Japanese wine, sake tasting.
    Every city has a unique charming point.
    The motto of my guiding is ” Ichigo Ichie” Once in a lifetime or seize the day. I learn this concept that the moment will never be the same again through tea ceremonies.
    I like a tea ceremony that is part of the traditional Japanese culture and embodies the spirit of “omotenashi” or hospitality. Through the tea ceremony, we can feel the spirit of “omotenashi” that has been passed down to us from ancient times.
    And I like to travel abroad and domestically, and I have been to 13 overseas countries and most of the prefectures in Japan. Traveling always gives me a new perspective, which is exciting and thrilling. Nowadays, we can learn a lot from the Internet, but traveling teaches us that it is important to have direct experience. When I travel, I feel that my five senses are infinitely expanded, and through my tour, I help all guests to have the same feeling in Japan.
    I was born and raised in Kanagawa Prefecture, which is next to Tokyo Prefecture in eastern Japan. When I was little, I could see Mount Fuji from my backyard. There was also a rice field nearby, and I grew up listening to the croaking of frogs. Listening to the frogs and seeing the mountains made me feel very calm.
    I moved to the city of Kobe, one of the Kansai areas in western Japan, which includes Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and so on. I’m not from the Kansai area of western Japan, but I think that makes me sensitive to the differences between that area and the Kanto area, Tokyo, where I grew up.
    Speaking of Kobe, you might be thinking of Kobe beef. Of course you do. There are also other sake breweries in Nada in Kobe. You can also go from Kobe city to Himeji Castle, also known as the White Egret Castle, which was the first in Japan to be listed as a World Heritage Site in 1993.
    Let’s meet and enjoy Japan together!

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    Jul 27, 2026
    OscarBrisenoJr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
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    Seeing the temples and shrines…

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    Amazing Kyoto with Mizu
    Mizu-San gave us an AMAZING tour of Kyoto.…