Category: Uncategorized

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Peace Park

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

    October, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel meet
    • 10:25-13:20 Miyajima
    • 14:20-15:10 Shukkeien Garden
    • 15:30-16:40 Peace Park
    • 17:10 Dismissal at Hiroshima Station

    What Is a Private Miyajima and Itsukushima Shrine Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. On the day of the tour, the tide was high, so we were unable to enter Itsukushima Shrine during the originally planned time slot. We changed the plan, first visiting Daisho-in Temple, and after a light meal we toured the shrine. The guests appeared very satisfied to be able to see the Great Torii gate and the shrine during the exceptionally high tide that occurs only a few times a year. We also ate onigiri rice balls together for lunch, which was more popular than expected, and I would like to add it as one of the light-lunch options for future tours.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima～Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi～Hiroshima420JPY
    Section 3BusShukkeien-mae～Atomic Bomb Dome-mae240JPY
    Section 4BusPeace Memorial Park／Hiroshima Bus～Hiroshima240JPY
    Total1,320JPY

    Tour Report by TO

    Hi! My name is Kazuhisa To. I was born in Nagasaki Prefecture and spent a total of approximately 17 years there. After graduating from university and completing graduate school, I moved to Hiroshima in 1984. Hiroshima has been my home base for more than 42 years, including approximately five and a half years during which I was posted to Germany and the United States. I worked as an engineer at Mazda Motor Corporation for 40 years. While working at Mazda, I earned a Ph.D. in Engineering through a doctoral program designed for working professionals at a national university. During the final five years of my career at Mazda, I was assigned to Hiroshima University, where I served as a Specially Appointed Professor and Deputy Director of a research center. In this role, I led the development of the center’s organizational and operational framework and advanced more than 20 industry–university collaborative research projects across four major research programs, contributing to regional revitalization. Living in Nagasaki, Hiroshima, Germany, and the United States has deepened my appreciation for the distinct histories and cultures of different regions and broadened my international perspective. Drawing on these experiences, I strive to offer tours that allow guests from around the world to feel comfortable and relaxed while enjoying a genuinely engaging experience. After retiring from Mazda at the end of March 2024, I embarked on a new chapter in my life as a licensed local guide in Hiroshima. In addition to renowned destinations such as Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima, I am delighted to introduce guests to Hiroshima’s history, culture, natural beauty, local cuisine, and everyday life, tailoring each tour to their individual interests and preferences. It is my sincere hope that every guest will enjoy a truly personal and memorable experience while discovering the authentic spirit of Hiroshima. I very much look forward to welcoming you to Hiroshima!

    Request Booking

    Sep 28, 2026
    anita2336
    The best time in Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    This was one of…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Mostew
    Private tour with To – Hiroshima / Miyajima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    We…

    Aug 30, 2026
    644lucys
    Fantastic guide, full and wonderful day.
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Today we had…

    Jul 21, 2026
    anza
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Excellent Walking Tour with Kazuhisa To
    We had a…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Higashi-Shinjuku Station & Tsukiji Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Higashi-Shinjuku Station & Tsukiji Station

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: FC House Okubo Shinjuku
    • 10:10 Depart Higashi-Shinjuku Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • Ueno-Okachimachi
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 10:50 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • 11:30 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 11:40 Arrive Suehirocho Station
    • Akihabara Akihabara Electric Town
    • 12:10 Depart Suehirocho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 12:30 Arrive Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 13:30 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • 14:00 Arrive Higashi-Shinjuku Station
    • 14:00 Dismissal: Higashi-Shinjuku Station

    Can You Do a Family-Friendly Private Tour of Tokyo Covering Asakusa, Akihabara, and Tsukiji? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a family visiting Japan from North America. It was their first visit to Japan. They had arrived at Haneda Airport a couple of days earlier and taken a taxi to their accommodation. The previous evening, they had used a taxi to explore Shibuya and Harajuku. This time, they were staying for only about six days, and had decided to focus entirely on the Tokyo area. They planned to visit Kamakura the next day. Their wish was, "First, we would like to get used to Tokyo's transportation." It was a clear but hot and humid day for the tour. We started with Asakusa, which was extremely crowded as usual. Setting off from in front of Kaminarimon Gate, I explained about Sensoji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo, what the five-story pagoda is for, what Buddhism is, and the difference between Buddhism and Shinto. We took commemorative photos at Kaminarimon, in front of the pagoda, and at various spots, and strolled slowly along the Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as, "What are the main religions in Japan?" "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?" and "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people follow?" One of the guests also mentioned visiting temples when returning to Asia. At the guests' request, we went to Akihabara. I explained about the origins and history of Akihabara. We strolled slowly while observing the anime shops. There was a question about maid cafes: "What kind of place is it? What is its purpose?" The guests each purchased anime figures. Next we went to Tsukiji. Even though it was a closed day, it was extremely crowded with tourists, and we strolled slowly through the crowds. I explained about the history of Tokyo's fish markets since the Edo period, and the difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market. There was a question, "Does everyone in Tokyo come here to buy fish?" The guests each purchased items such as octopus crackers, pork buns, and matcha ice cream. There were also comments and questions such as, "Japanese people are all quiet and polite," "The whole city is clean with no litter," and "Why are there no trash cans on the streets?" Since they said they were not yet used to the transportation, I saw them off at Higashi-Shinjuku Station, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHigashi-Shinjuku～Ueno-Okachimachi220JPY
    Section 2TrainUeno-Okachimachi～Asakusa180JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa～Suehirocho (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 4TrainSuehirocho (Tokyo)～Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 5OtherTsukiji～Higashi-Shinjuku210JPY
    Total970JPY

    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…

  • Hiroshima: Shukkeien Garden

    Hiroshima: Shukkeien Garden

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    October, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 a.m. Meet at the lobby of the Hotel
    • 9:25 a.m. Visit Shukkeien Garden
    • 10:30 a.m. Visit Peace Memorial Park and Peace Memorial Museum
    • 12:15 p.m. Lunch
    • 1:00 p.m. End of the tour at the hotel
    • —————————————

    What Is a Private One-Day Tour of Hiroshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They were very friendly and, right after we met, shared many stories about their previous travels and their impressions of Japan. They mentioned that the day before they had gone cycling along the Shimanami Kaido, and we had a lively conversation about it. The weather was good, and they were delighted by the beautiful scenery of Shukkeien Garden, taking many photos. They also enjoyed watching the carp feeding. At the Peace Memorial Park, we visited the memorials before going to the museum. While walking around the memorials, one of the guests was moved to tears. They already knew the story of Sadako Sasaki and looked at the thousand paper cranes with great interest. At the museum, they said it was too painful to see the belongings of the children, so we moved through a little quickly, but I recommended taking time at the section dedicated to Sadako, and they looked at it carefully. They were surprised at how small the paper crane was. They also enjoyed the okonomiyaki for lunch. Since they had reserved a bullet train just after 3:00 p.m., we returned to the Hotel right after lunch and ended the tour. I received a thank-you email right after the tour, which I greatly appreciated.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHiroshima～Shukkeien-mae240JPY
    Section 2BusShukkeien-mae～Genbaku Dome-mae／JR Bus Chugoku240JPY
    Section 3BusHondori／Hiroshima Bus～Hiroshima240JPY
    Total720JPY

    Tour Report by Mari

    Hello. My name is Mari.
    I am a certified local tour guide in Hiroshima.

    I was born and grew up in Hiroshima until I entered in a university in Tokyo.
    After 6 years in Tokyo, I came back to Hiroshima because I really love my hometown and wanted to spend the rest of my life here.

    Hiroshima is very comfortable city to live in and rich in nature.
    I am so happy that I have been able to raise my kids here.

    Hiroshima is absolutely full of beautiful and historically important places and also the great food.
    I am so excited to introduce the wonderful experiences here in Hiroshima and hope you will come to love this place, too.
    Look forward to meeting you.

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    Sep 26, 2026
    F1357GRpaulg
    Hiroshima and Miyajima.
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Mari was a delightful guide. We…

    Sep 29, 2026
    Matthew_T
    Do not miss this tour of Hiroshima
    Viator review: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    This was fantastic. Mari…

    Sep 28, 2026
    Passport734191
    As good as it gets in Hiroshima!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    Mari was a very…

    Jul 27, 2026
    Jen_S21
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    The highlight of our trip!
    Mari was an excellent…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tenkubashi Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Tenkubashi Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting point: Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Haneda
    • 9:10 Depart Tenkubashi Station
    • (Tokyo Monorail)
    • Hamamatsucho Station
    • Daimon Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 9:50 Arrive Tochomae Station
    • Shinjuku West Exit Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observation Deck
    • 10:30 Depart Tochomae Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 10:40 Arrive Shinjuku Nishiguchi Station
    • Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho
    • Kabukicho
    • Shinjuku Golden Gai
    • 11:40 Depart Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • 11:50 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Break: Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • Takeshita Street
    • 12:50 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:00 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 14:20 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • Hamamatsucho Station
    • (Tokyo Monorail)
    • 15:00 Arrive Tenkubashi Station
    • 15:00 Dismissal: Tenkubashi Station

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Shibuya The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America, on a trip to mark a personal milestone. Two days before the tour, a request came in to have a longtime acquaintance, now based in Japan, join as well. The two weeks prior, they had taken a two-week cruise around Japan departing from Yokohama Port, returning to Yokohama a couple of days earlier. The previous day they had strolled around Ginza and other areas. They planned to return home from Haneda Airport the next day. The tour took place under cloudy but surprisingly humid weather. We first went to the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku, which was crowded with tourists. Amid the crowds, I explained the various landmark buildings of Tokyo. Although the view was not very clear, the comment was, "I got a good sense of the layout of Tokyo — it's a vast, sprawling city." We then moved to the east exit of Shinjuku. I explained "the origins of Shinjuku," "the differences between the east and west sides," and "the history of Kabukicho." The "Godzilla Head" and the "cat billboard" seemed to be favorites, and they were photographed enthusiastically. In "Shinjuku Golden Gai," almost all the shops were closed, but several groups of tourists were walking around. After that, we moved to Harajuku. I explained "about Shinto," "about torii gates," "about Emperor Meiji," "why sake barrels are displayed," and "why wine barrels are displayed." There were questions such as "What kind of religion is Shinto?", "This is completely different from Sensoji Temple," and "How do Buddhism and Shinto differ?" After a break at the cafe terrace at Meiji Shrine, we also strolled along Takeshita Street. From here we moved to Shibuya. We actually crossed the Scramble Crossing, and there were questions such as "Why do so many people gather here?" and "Why did it become so famous?" We also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. There were comments and questions such as "Japanese people are all quiet and polite," "There are hardly any homeless people to be seen in the city," "The streets are clean and there is no litter," "Why are there no trash cans on the streets?", and "Next time I'd like to come in early spring and stay a while longer." Here we parted from the acquaintance, and I saw the guest off at Tenkubashi Station, ending the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTenkubashi～Hamamatsucho460JPY
    Section 2TrainDaimon (Tokyo)～Tochomae220JPY
    Section 3TrainTochomae～Shinjuku Nishiguchi180JPY
    Section 4TrainShinjuku-sanchome～Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 5TrainMeiji-jingumae～Shibuya150JPY
    Section 6TrainShibuya～Hamamatsucho210JPY
    Section 7TrainHamamatsucho～Tenkubashi460JPY
    Total1,860JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.8:30 Meet up @ the b Hotel
    • 2.8:50 @ Tokyo Station
    • 3.9:10 @ East Gardens
    • 4.10:30 @ Tsukiji
    • 5.11:40 @ Asakusa
    • 6.12:30 Lunch @ Tempura Akimitsu Asakusa
    • 7.13:40 @ Ginza
    • 8.14:30 Disband @ the b Hotel

    What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tokyo Station, the East Gardens, Tsukiji, Asakusa, and Ginza The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Oceania. One of them could walk but moved slowly, so I took extra care on large streets and when boarding and getting off trains, while the other loved walking and moved at a quick pace. Since the guests wished to complete the procedures for their JR Pass, we first went to Tokyo Station, and after finishing the paperwork, we headed to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. They seemed to especially love how beautiful the gardens were. At Tsukiji, they purchased fruit, along with nail clippers and miso-flavored peanuts as souvenirs. After that, we made our way to Asakusa. The guests mentioned their faith, and they said the main hall and the other buildings were wonderful. As one of the guests preferred a meatless meal, we went to a tempura restaurant. It was delicious, though it was quite a large amount. We then guided them to shops in Ginza, the locations of department stores, and a nearby supermarket, before returning to the Hotel. We were fortunate that it hardly rained, and the tour ended without any trouble.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShimbashi～Tokyo150JPY
    Section 2TrainOtemachi (Tokyo)～Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 3TrainTsukiji～Asakusa210JPY
    Section 4TrainAsakusa～Ginza210JPY
    Total750JPY

    Tour Report by FUMIKO

    Hello, I am Fumiko, an English-speaking Tourist Guide. I have been guiding foreign visitors science 2016. Please let me know your bucket lists whiles you are staying in Japan and what you are interested in. I will make the best plan for you. This is an once in a lifetime experience for you. As for myself, I love traveling, meeting people, eating local food, drinking, history, and art. I am learning Ikebana, traditional Japanese-style flower arrangement, and tea ceremony. I also love sports, especially tennis. I like children, so I can teach them some origami, folding paper. I am looking forward to hearing from you and seeing you in Japan.

    Request Booking

    Sep 29, 2026
    W9834MZdavidn
    First Visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    We had an absolutely wonderful day…

    Sep 12, 2026
    Don_G
    Tokyo 6 hour Tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    We had a great time on…

    Jul 27, 2026
    zyarisa
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko tour good vibes only
    Mrs. fumiko was very…

    Jul 23, 2026
    734mortenp
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Nice tour of Tokyo
    Don’t visit Tokyo without a guide! You’ll…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hotel, departure ➡ Guided tour around the hotel on foot (10:00-10:20) ➡ Subway to Kyoto Station, guide to tomorrow's Shinkansen platform, etc. (10:30-10:50) ➡ JR to Fushimi Inari Taisha (11:10-11:50) ➡ Keihan train to Sanjusangendo (12:20-13:00) ➡ Taxi to Kiyomizu-dera (13:20-14:10) ➡ Lunch at a restaurant on Kiyomizu-zaka (14:20-15:10) ➡ On foot to Hokan-ji → Yasaka Shrine → Gion (15:10-15:55) ➡ Disband at Shijo Ohashi Bridge (16:00)

    What's a Private Day Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Sanjusangendo, and Kiyomizu-dera The guests were a group from Europe who had just arrived in Kyoto the night before. From the Hotel, we walked one station away and explored the surrounding area, including Nishiki Market, then took the subway and JR line to Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. One of the guests, who had previously given a bonsai as a gift, was fond of Japanese nature, culture, and old things, and was overwhelmed and deeply moved by the number of Buddhist statues at Sanjusangendo. I felt glad to have brought the group there. For lunch, they wanted to relax at a restaurant with a nice atmosphere. Given the timing, this brought us to the area around Kiyomizu-dera, where there are few restaurants with a pleasant atmosphere, so we went to a spacious restaurant. This place mainly serves yudofu (hot tofu), but also offers meat and tempura, giving plenty of options. As a result, the guests were very pleased.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShijo (Kyoto Municipal)～Kyoto220JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 3OtherFushimi Inari Station～Shichijo180JPY
    Total550JPY

    Tour Report by Emi

    Hello! I’m Emi (meaning “smile” or “laugh” in Japanese) , born, raised, and living in Osaka for more than half a century. I’ve been working as a government-licensed tour guide since 2018 after early retirement from a company. My favorite things are hiking, cooking, eating, laughing, learning different cultures, jazz, playing the chromatic harmonica, etc.
    I’ll provide you with a few suggested itineraries first, but of course I’ll be happy to provide you with a flexible itinerary according to your preferences and requests and to help you enjoy your stay in Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kobe, etc. I can also offer a tour visiting not only popular destinations but also hidden or less-crowded places.
    I’m looking forward to meeting and guiding you!!

    Request Booking

    Jul 17, 2026
    TROY_R
    Viator review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    This was a perfect tour…
    This was a perfect tour of…

    Sep 18, 2025
    L9831WKjenniferb
    4 hour Kyoto tour with English speaking guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely afternoon with English…

    Aug 15, 2025
    SuperGC68
    Great value
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a two day 6hr tour with our guide…

    Jul 4, 2025
    Inspire64445626178
    Delightful day with Emi
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a delightful day with our guide…

  • Gifu in Half a Day: Suzuki Carving & Harada Sake Brewery

    Gifu in Half a Day: Suzuki Carving & Harada Sake Brewery

    Takayama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 9:15 Suzuki Carving
    • 9:30 Hida Kokubunji Temple
    • 9:50 Miyagawa Morning Market
    • 10:00 Takumikan
    • 11:00 Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine
    • 11:30 Shokado (Stationery Store)
    • 12:30 Harada Sake Brewery
    • 13:00 Disperse

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Takayama Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a friendly group. They asked so many questions no matter where we went, and I was truly delighted that they took such an interest in Takayama, a place I love. Usually, in a 4-hour tour, we often finish after showing the Jinya, but this time, while answering each and every question, we found it hard to move forward. Even so, I believe we were able to visit all the places they hoped to see, and I feel I was able to answer their questions thoroughly. At the sake brewery at the end, they also listened attentively to the explanation of the sake-making process and the differences between each type of sake.

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

    Tour Report by Annie

    My name is Akane Ito from Takayama city.
    I started a tour guiding from 2013.
    I was guiding almost 1000 people.
    I love this job. And I love people who visit in my town. I will take a you to local place where my favorite places . I’m good about communication with the guest and always cheerful. I will take you to Local Sake brewery for tasting sake, Morning Market, Historical places (Takayama Jinya, Takayama festival float museum and Old private houses area) ands my favorite places. If you are interesting about me, please feel free to contact me.

    Request Booking

    Oct 11, 2025
    Traveler27625367943
    Outstanding, enjoyable tour!
    Tripadvisor review: Takayama Half-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Annie (Akane) was a wonderful guide…knowledgeable, engaging, fun,…

    Aug 30, 2024
    Leonie_B
    Interesting and informative
    Viator review: Takayama Half-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Annie is a delightful person and great guide.…

    Jun 29, 2024
    MarydeS
    Lovely morning tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Takayama Half-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our morning tour around the old centre of…

  • Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    October, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①　09:30　Gather at Tempozan Cruise Terminal
    • ②　09:35　Itinerary explanation
    • ③　09:45　Departure
    • ④　11:15　Sanjusangendo
    • ⑤　12:45　Nijo Castle
    • ⑥　14:00　Nishiki Market (lunch)
    • ⑦　15:45　Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • ⑧　16:30　Heiseiin (Arashiyama)
    • ⑨　18:00　Disband at Tempozan Cruise Terminal

    Title: What Is a Private Osaka Tour Like for Cruise Passengers? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, currently making a stop by cruise ship. The itinerary for this tour had been arranged by one of the guests. One of the guests was very fond of conversation and at first made a great effort to speak in fairly good Japanese, but partway through switched to English, perhaps finding it tiring. This guest seemed unable to grasp, on a practical level, the way Shinto and Buddhism coexist in the everyday lives of ordinary Japanese people, asking many questions such as: What do you actually do at a shrine? What is a temple? What about weddings, funerals, New Year's celebrations, and Shichi-Go-San? The enthusiasm behind these questions was truly remarkable. We also talked about many other topics, including Saigo Takamori, pensions, Japanese sake (especially Gekkeikan), English education in Japan, wartime Japan, and politics such as who the next prime minister might be, and various other things I have since forgotten. I even got the impression that this guest may have wanted to hear about these kinds of topics from a Japanese person more than to go sightseeing. It felt just like chatting over drinks at a traditional izakaya after work. The other guest was rather quiet, tending to read the panels and displays and ask questions only when something was unclear. At the end, in front of a ship at Tempozan, I received a somewhat personal question and we ended up talking for another ten minutes or so before saying goodbye. They are continuing their cruise, planning to visit Kochi, Kagoshima, and then continue on to other destinations. I felt a real connection with this guest and would love to meet again and, next time, talk over drinks.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOsaka Port～Shin-Osaka290JPY
    Section 2OtherShin-Osaka～Kyoto1,450JPY
    Section 3TrainNijo～Saga-Arashiyama200JPY
    Section 4OtherSaga-Arashiyama～Shin-Osaka1,710JPY
    Section 5TrainShin-Osaka～Osaka Port290JPY
    Total3,940JPY

    Tour Report by Kazu

    Hello, this is Kazu Akiyama, your tour guide. Nice to meet you and welcome to Japan. Thank you for joining me on the tour. Now I am a retired salaried worker, living in Osaka. I have been very much interested in not only learning Japanese history, culture, religion myself, but also talking about them (sometimes going off topics) in English with tourists from all over the world as well. I am so excited being with you as your guide on coming day! I am very much looking forward to you enjoying with me visiting the must-see places and some of the hidden gems. See you soon. Thank you – Kazu Akiyama

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    Jul 29, 2026
    James_G
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great guide and very…
    Great guide and very knowledgeable.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    peterhR6472GA
    Kyoto highlights with Kazu.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with Kazu…

    Jul 12, 2026
    cgalvez73
    Fantastic tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our guide in Kyoto was Kazu.…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Winni_H
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Highly recommended when in Kyoto
    Our tour guide…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • PM 12:00 Tour starts from the hotel
    • Travel by train to Arashiyama Sagano
    • PM 12:40 -14:00 Bamboo Grove, Nonomiya Shrine, Tenryu-ji Temple Garden
    • Travel by train and bus to Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • PM 14:40-15:30 Kinkaku-ji Temple visit
    • Travel by bus and train to Kyoto Station PM 16:00 Tour ends

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama and Kinkaku-ji [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private one-day Kyoto tour for a group of guests visiting Japan for the first time from North America. The original plan was to visit the bamboo grove and Fushimi Inari, then finish at Nishiki Market near the guests' hotel, but the itinerary was changed on short notice to include a visit to Kinkaku-ji. Since it became clear that there would not be enough time to see Fushimi Inari, I guided the guests to the Nara Line platform at Kyoto Station so they could go there on their own, and the tour began from there. Although rain had been forecast, we were fortunate not to be caught in any rain during the tour, and the guests enjoyed their short stay in Kyoto while taking many photos at each sightseeing spot.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKarasuma Oike～Nijo220JPY
    Section 2TrainNijo～Saga-Arashiyama200JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)～Kitano-Hakubaicho250JPY
    Section 4BusKitano-Hakubaicho / Kyoto City Bus～Kinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 5BusKinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus～Kitaoji Bus Terminal (Subway Kitaoji Station) / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 6SubwayKitaoji～Kyoto260JPY
    Total1,390JPY

    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!

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    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…

  • Kyoto: Kasuga Taisha Shrine & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto: Kasuga Taisha Shrine & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    October, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Okura Kyoto
    • 10:10 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 11:15 Todai-ji Nandaimon Gate ~ Lanterns ~ Great Buddha Hall
    • 12:40 Lunch at Todai-ji Emado Chaya
    • 13:10 Nigatsu-do Hall
    • 14:00 Isuien Garden
    • 15:40 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 16:50 Hotel Okura Kyoto

    What Is a Private Day Trip from Kyoto to Nara Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today I guided the guests visiting from Europe. They had already visited Tokyo and Hakone, and today they were exploring Nara, with plans to spend four days in Kyoto starting this morning and also to visit Okinawa. The guests had not known about the deer in Nara, so they were very surprised and thoroughly enjoyed seeing them. Compared to the crowds in Kyoto, it was not so busy, and we were able to explore at a relaxed pace while I explained things such as the difference between shrines and temples. The guests also enjoyed the beautiful garden at Isuien, and since there was time to spare, I suggested visiting Fushimi Inari Taisha on the way back, which they gladly accepted, so we stopped by Fushimi Inari Taisha. It was not too crowded, and they were able to enjoy the Senbon Torii at a leisurely pace.

    Click here for more details: Nara Day Trip from Kyoto by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Kaeko

    Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

    Request Booking

    Jul 25, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Half-day with private guide in Kyoto
    We spent half a day…

    Jul 24, 2026
    J6711TVnancyb
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Family Fun Day in Kyoto with young children
    Kaeko Tanigawa was fantastic at helping us create…

    Jul 13, 2026
    elizabethtW414DU
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Private Tour
    Kaeko was absolutely amazing from start…

    Jul 12, 2026
    johnkE8649IH
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Kyoto Day Tour
    We had a wonderful experience touring Kyoto…