Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 10:00 Meet up @ Hotel Tokyo Otemachi (1-2-1 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 10:45 Tokyo Tower
    • 3) 12:45 Shibuya Crossing
    • 4) 13:40 Meiji Shrine
    • 5) 14:50 The National Art Center, Tokyo
    • 6) 15:20 21_21 DESIGN SIGHT (Midtown Garden, within Tokyo Midtown, 9-7-6 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo)
    • 7) 15:30 Disband @ Tokyo Midtown (9-7-1 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo)

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tokyo Tower, Shibuya, and Minato The guests were visitors from South America. Initial communication took place through an agent, who mentioned that the guests had joined a tour two days earlier and planned to visit places such as Asakusa and the Imperial Palace, and that for the tour day they hoped to see Tokyo Tower, Harajuku, and Roppongi. When I asked, through the agent, that the guests book Tokyo Tower entry at a specified time themselves, they kindly purchased a ticket for me as well. The day before the tour, the guests contacted me via a messaging app to say they had already visited Harajuku the previous day. When I reconfirmed the itinerary at the meeting point, it seemed the plan would shift toward the agent's suggestions, such as Omotesando, the Shibuya crossing, and museums and architectural buildings in the Minato area instead of Harajuku. One of the guests had some difficulty walking, so we used escalators and elevators as much as possible. The guests decided to enjoy sightseeing in Japan after being encouraged by a family member who had visited Japan several times. Upon arriving at Tokyo Tower, one of the guests preferred to wait on the main deck, while the rest of us went up to the top deck. After that, we smoothly toured Shibuya and Meiji Shrine. The guests said they did not need a lunch break, and when I was about to guide them to Omotesando, they mentioned they had already walked around Omotesando the day before. So we headed straight to a museum in the Minato area, where they also viewed a calligraphy exhibition. When we reached the Tokyo Midtown area, the guests said they would have a late lunch there and then return to their hotel, so we could part ways at that point. There were still about 30 minutes left until the scheduled end of the tour, and although I was invited to join them for lunch, I politely declined, expressed my thanks, and we parted with smiles.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOtemachi (Tokyo)～Onarimon180JPY
    Section 2TrainAkabanebashi～Shibuya290JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya～Kitasando180JPY
    Section 4TrainMeiji-jingumae Station / Shibuya-ku, Tokyo～Nogizaka180JPY
    Total830JPY

    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!

    Request Booking

    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…

    May 5, 2026
    Gary33556
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour of the highlights of Tokyo
    Tachi was our guide. What…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 15:00 Meet at the World Heritage stone monument in front of Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 15:00-15:40 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • Travel by taxi
    • 16:20-17:20
    • Travel by taxi
    • 17:40-18:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • Disband at Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    What's a 4-Hour Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji, Kiyomizu-dera, and Fushimi Inari The guests were visitors from Europe. The tour was originally scheduled to start at 5:00 p.m., and when I asked where they wanted to go, they mentioned Kinkaku-ji, Kiyomizu-dera, and Fushimi Inari Taisha. When I informed them that Kinkaku-ji requires entry by 4:30 p.m., they had not been aware of this, so they moved the tour start time up to 3:00 p.m. Although I had originally planned to pick them up at the hotel, the guests themselves requested to begin the tour at Kinkaku-ji, so I suggested the World Heritage stone monument as an easy-to-find meeting point. In advance, since we would be fitting three popular sites with long travel distances into four hours, they agreed to travel by taxi. At this time of day, the area around the World Heritage stone monument was nicely shaded, so I was able to begin my explanation of Kinkaku-ji there. When we proceeded to the ticket booth, one of the guests realized they had no cash on hand, and asked me and the other guest to wait while they went to a nearby ATM to withdraw cash. It seemed they had come directly from another city and had not had time to withdraw cash from an ATM. At Kinkaku-ji, the guests were moved by the reflection of the golden pavilion in Kyoko-chi Pond. As one of the guests was not very confident in English, the other occasionally interpreted my explanations for them. From there we took a taxi to Kiyomizu-dera. At Kiyomizu-dera as well, they were impressed by the various structures and took many photographs. Then we headed to the main hall. They even tried lifting the iron rods there. As expected, the guests struggled with them. We then entered the main hall. When I explained that "the main hall is composed of the outer sanctuary, the inner sanctuary, and the innermost sanctuary," they told me that Catholic churches also have such a structure. When I explained that the thousand-armed Kannon transforms into 33 forms to save people, they told me that "Christ was crucified at 33 and resurrected at 33, so the number 33 seems to hold meaning across religions." Seeing sake offered in the main hall, they remarked with interest that "in Catholicism too, wine is offered to God, so regardless of East or West, alcohol seems to carry religious significance." We then walked over to the inner sanctuary on the opposite side and looked back at the main hall, but they were overwhelmed by the crowds. They remembered my earlier remark that "the lifespan of the pillars from the time of reconstruction is 800 years, so the next reconstruction will be in 2400," and said, "Will something like this really be all right in 800 years?" Even so, they liked how Kiyomizu-dera is a temple surrounded by nature. Visiting Kiyomizu-dera at this time of day is a bit cooler and pleasant, but there are many mosquitoes. For those visiting Kiyomizu-dera at this hour, I recommend applying insect repellent spray beforehand. Then we walked down Chawan-zaka slope and took a taxi to Fushimi Inari Taisha. While descending Chawan-zaka, the topic of national character came up. The guests noted that even within their own country, people from the north and the south have different temperaments, and that they themselves were from the north. I mentioned that while we in Japan sometimes hold a stereotypical impression that people from their country are relaxed about time, this guest had arrived ahead of schedule and had been very responsive by email during our preliminary arrangements, so I found their point convincing. We then arrived at Fushimi Inari Taisha by taxi. Here too, I was asked whether one bows once when entering a shrine and bows once when leaving. When I answered that this was the case, they pointed out that in Catholicism one makes the sign of the cross when entering a church and again when leaving, noting another commonality with Catholicism. I told them that I had learned a great deal from the various parallels they shared with the religion of their home region. Originally, they had planned to go to Gion after the tour, so I had intended to see them off at the Keihan station, but since they said they wanted to stay a little longer at Fushimi Inari Taisha, we parted ways a bit earlier than scheduled. The photo, though a common composition, was taken at Kinkaku-ji. Because they kindly chose a spot with no other people, it turned out to be the best photo I have taken so far. I told them that this would surely be good enough to use in the guide agency's advertising.

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

    Tour Report by Satoko

    I am a 53-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!

    Request Booking

    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

    August, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at the cruise ship exit → 9:00~9:50 Travel to Asakusa → 9:50~11:00 Stroll around Senso-ji Temple → 11:00~11:30 Travel to Tokyo Tower → 11:30~13:45 View Tokyo from the Main Deck and Top Deck → 13:45~14:10 Travel to Shibuya → Visit Shibuya Crossing and Hachiko → 2:30~3:00 Have lunch at Center Gai and disband

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tokyo Tower, and Shibuya Today's guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. They had already visited several cities in Japan by cruise ship and made Tokyo their final destination. I first took them to Asakusa and shared stories about Senso-ji Temple. Despite the heat, they actively asked many questions, and one of the guests was very keen on photography, taking pictures enthusiastically. Next, we visited Tokyo Tower and they enjoyed the views from both the Main Deck and the Top Deck. At the souvenir corner they bought postcards, and since postcards mailed from Tokyo Tower receive a special stamp, they mailed several. Finally, we visited Shibuya, where I explained how the Shibuya Crossing became so famous. Afterward, I invited them to a ramen restaurant, and we parted ways there.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTokyo International Cruise Terminal～Shimbashi390JPY
    Section 2SubwayShimbashi～Asakusa220JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa～Akabanebashi220JPY
    Section 4TrainAkabanebashi～Shibuya290JPY
    Total1,120JPY

    Select a guide: enter the WordPress Guide post ID or Guide ID in the block settings.

    Request Booking

    Oct 14, 2025
    Randi R
    Amazing tour of Tokyo with Yuji
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yuji was an amazing guide.…

    Sep 30, 2025
    K6530TRangelor
    Great tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide Yuji was excellent. He was very punctual and…

    Sep 19, 2025
    belindaf2022
    Tokyo highlights
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful day with being shown the key…

    Sep 8, 2025
    S8908ADcarolinab
    Family friendly guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great experience with our 6 hour…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera & Guide ends

    Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera & Guide ends

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meeting point: Park Hyatt Kyoto
    • 09:15 Walk (Hotel ～ Kiyomizu-dera)
    • 09:30 Sightseeing ①: Kiyomizu-dera
    • 10:30 Travel by taxi (Kiyomizu-dera ～ Fushimi Inari)
    • 11:00 Sightseeing ②: Fushimi Inari
    • 11:50 Travel by train/walk (Fushimi Inari ～ Gion-Shijo →→→ Yasaka Shrine)
    • 12:10 Sightseeing ③: Yasaka Shrine
    • 12:45 Lunch/Break (Gion, ramen restaurant)
    • 13:30 Travel by taxi (Gion ～ Nanzen-ji)
    • 13:50 Sightseeing ④: Nanzen-ji
    • 15:00 Guide ends (Nanzen-ji)

    What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Temple and Shrine Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America, traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto for sightseeing. All prior communication and itinerary discussions were handled with one member of the group. They had a deep interest in Japanese culture, religion, and history, and from the very beginning they had clear requests, choosing four destinations: two temples (Kiyomizu-dera and Nanzen-ji) and two shrines (Fushimi Inari and Yasaka Shrine). Their hotel was in an ideal location, very close to Kodai-ji and Kiyomizu-dera in the Higashiyama area. As a result, the itinerary was easy to plan, and preparations proceeded very smoothly. The only change was moving the departure time one hour earlier, from the original 10:00 to 09:00, to account for the heat. On the day, although it was somewhat cloudy, the intense heat continued. Fortunately, everyone in the group was in good health and could walk comfortably, so there were no problems with the sightseeing. The first stop, Kiyomizu-dera, was a ten-minute walk from the hotel, and by arriving early in the morning we were able to avoid the crowds and enjoy a pleasant visit. The guests enjoyed the beautiful main hall and the scenery of Kiyomizu-dera, nestled on the slopes of Higashiyama. For the second stop, Fushimi Inari, we had originally planned to travel by train, but to avoid the extreme heat we took a taxi instead. In front of the main gate, as is customary in my guiding, I asked, "Why is the fox the messenger of the deity at Fushimi Inari?" One of the guests, who had studied a great deal, answered correctly on the spot: "To protect the rice from mice," which drew great applause from everyone. For the third stop, Yasaka Shrine, we traveled as planned by train (the Keihan line). We enjoyed passing through the lively Shijo-dori shopping district before arriving at Yasaka Shrine at the end of the street. The guests understood the difference between Buddhist temples and shrines, and performed a perfect prayer with the offering, two bows, two claps, and one bow. For lunch, since some members of the group were vegetarian or vegan, I had planned a specialty restaurant focused on vegetables. However, one of the guests mentioned wanting to visit a nearby ramen shop that offered vegan options. Fortunately, I had not yet made a reservation, and the desired ramen shop was nearby, so we decided to go there. These days there are many restaurants catering to a wide variety of dietary preferences, and I truly felt how convenient this has become. For the final destination, Nanzen-ji, one of the guests thoughtfully reserved a large taxi so we could travel together in a single vehicle. The guests were deeply impressed by the scenery of Nanzen-ji, including its Sanmon gate and Hojo hall, standing majestically amid the green forest. In particular, when we climbed the Sanmon gate and looked out over the wonderful view, one guest even asked, "With such a beautiful view, why aren't there more tourists here?" and they were able to leisurely enjoy the scenery. Being able to guide such a wonderful group, guests who came fully prepared and ready to truly enjoy Japanese culture, made this a deeply rewarding tour as a guide.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainFushimi Inari～Gion-Shijo220JPY
    Total220JPY

    Tour Report by Nori

    Hi, everyone! I’m Norifumi Kamon, a government registered guide interpreter. Please call me “Nori”, or “Kamon-san”.
    Let me introdece myself. I was born on April 17th in 1952 in Miyazaki prefecture in Kyushu island. I used to be an English teacher of Osaka Prefectural high school. When I retired from a teacher ten years ago, I decided to get a professional guide license. I wanted to play a role of the bridge between Japanese people and the people from all over the world as a second life of mine. After two years efforts, I finally got the guide license. Since then, I have guided several handreds of foreign people mainly in Kyoto and Nara for about five years except Corona Pandemic period. Almost all the tourists were deeply impressed by the beauty of nature, traditoin, culture, and art of Japan. I can surely help you enjoy and be satisfied with the sightseeing in Japan. And I’m looking forward to seeing you soon.

    Request Booking

    Apr 9, 2026
    Ron_W
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We saw so much in the…
    We saw so much in the…

    Mar 24, 2026
    zackn719
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Knowledgeable guide and a great tour
    We did our private tour with…

    Oct 20, 2025
    66speech
    Highlights of Kyoto.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience with Nori. Nori exceeded our expectations with…

    Oct 16, 2025
    Michael_H
    Thoroughly enjoyed the…
    Viator review: Osaka Off the Beaten Path 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Thoroughly enjoyed the day out…

  • Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    August, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • Itinerary for Tokyo 8hr Private Tour
    • 22 August 2025
    • ＊10:30 meeting with your guide in the reception/lobby of Hotel Mira Costa
    • ☆walking to Tokyo Disney Sea Station for 10 minuets
    • ☆transfer from Tokyo Disney Sea Station to Asakusa station (taking one hour, changing trains two or three times)
    • @12:30〜13:30 Exploring Asakusa (Sensoji Temple, Nakamise shopping street, Asakusa shrine, seeing Tokyo Sky Tree at some distance)
    • @13:45〜14:15 Exploring Ueno (Ameyoko street)
    • @15:00〜17:00 Exploring Shinjuku
    • (Skyscraper area, Tokyo metropolitan government observatory deck, Kabukicho including Gozila head area)
    • ☆ transfer from Shinjuku to Harajuku by train, taking 5 minuets
    • @ 17:15〜17:45 Exploring Harajuku (Takeshita street)
    • ☆ transfer from Harajuku to Shibuya
    • by train, taking 3 minuets
    • @ 17:50〜18:40 Exploring Shibuya
    • (Shibuya crossing, statue of loyal dog
    • Hachiko)
    • ☆ transfer from Shibuya to Maihama
    • @19:30〜21:00 Dinner in Maihama
    • ☆transfer frm Maihama to Tokyo Disney Sea Station (taking one hour, changing trains
    • ☆ walking to the hotel for ten minuets
    • ＊21:30 End of the tour in the reception/lobby of Hotel Mira Costa

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Ueno, Shinjuku, and Maihama The guests were a group visiting from North America. They live in North America and had all their arrangements, including the hotel and the [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) tour, made in advance by a member of their family who had visited Japan many times before. This was the group's first visit to Japan, and they were very impressed that a huge city like Tokyo was so clean with no litter on the streets. When they asked, "Why is it so clean even though there are no trash cans?", I explained the historical background of why trash cans were removed, and that because cleaning is part of school education, people here have a strong sense of awareness about public spaces. The weather was wonderful and the group seemed to fully enjoy the tour. They thanked me warmly, saying, "Today has been the most fun since we arrived in Japan." Shopping in Ueno and sightseeing in Shinjuku took more time than expected, but since they were such lovely people, I provided the extended guiding free of charge. On the way back, they said, "You took such good care of us, so we would love to treat you to dinner," and they treated me to a meal at a restaurant in Maihama. We returned quite late, but it turned out to be a fun and fulfilling day for me as well.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKasai Rinkai Park～Asakusa470JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa Station / Taito Ward, Tokyo～Ueno180JPY
    Section 3TrainUeno～Shinjuku210JPY
    Section 4TrainShinjuku～Harajuku150JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku～Shibuya150JPY
    Section 6TrainShibuya～Shinkiba570JPY
    Total1,730JPY

    Tour Report by Taki

    My name is Takashi Koizumi. I work as a nationally licensed tour guide, based in Tokyo. Please allow me to introduce myself. I was born and raised in Hiroshima, Japan. I obtained an MA in Peace Studies at University of Ulster in Northern Ireland, UK. I worked in war-torn areas in the former-Yugoslavia, including Croatia, Macedonia, and Kosovo for 15 years between 1996and 2011, engaging in peacemaking and inter-ethnic reconciliation issues through the United Nations and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe. I worked in the Tohoku region affected by the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake for four years from 2012 and 2016, engaging in a long-term NGO recovery program.

    In 2019, I changed my career, starting to work as a licensed tour guide registered in Tokyo Metropolis. Since then, I have covered more than 180 one-day tours and 21 long tours lasting for more than 10 days. Regions where I have worked cover large parts of Japanese archipelago, including Tokyo, Kamakura, Hokkaido, Atami, Fuji, Hakone, Nagano, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Hiroshima, Okayama, Kurashiki, Marugame and Fukuoka.

    As an excellent tour guide for international tourists, I have a deep understanding and knowledge of religion, culture, and history in Japan. I pride myself on being able to provide you with a comprehensive and engaging experience that highlights the rich tapestry of these aspects.

    I tailor my tours to suit the interest and preferences of each group. By understanding your preferences through informal conversation, I curate personalized itineraries that satisfy your needs.

    Through my extensive oversea experience, I am well-versed in cross-cultural communication. I am also fully aware of the challenges that international tourists often face in Japan.

    Furthermore, I am committed to fostering cultural sensitivity and respect throughout the tour. I educate guests on appropriate behavior, dress codes, and etiquette when visiting religious and cultural facilities such as Buddhis temples, Shinto shrines, and Japanese gardens.

    In conclusion, through my in-depth knowledge of religion, culture and history, personalized itineraries, and commitment to cultural sensitivity, you can expect unforgettable and excellent experiences that deepen your understanding and appreciation of Japan’s rich religious, cultural, and historical heritage.

    I am looking forward to meeting you.

    Best regards,

    Takashi

    Request Booking

    Nov 6, 2025
    janhN5861ZU
    Excellent way to see Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Takashi was our travel guide for a…

    Aug 27, 2025
    753lourdesh
    Exploring Tokyo with Takashi
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Takashi Koizumi, was absolutely AMAZING!! Booking…

    Jun 22, 2025
    pkj1909
    Wonderful & a memorable Trip
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Private Tour from Tokyo with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    We were assigned Mr.…

    Dec 31, 2024
    andreslau84
    Fantastic tour of Tokyo !
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    What an amazing day with Takashi, he…

  • Kyoto: Nijo Castle & Kyoto Imperial Palace

    Kyoto: Nijo Castle & Kyoto Imperial Palace

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    August, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet (@Hotel Kyoto)
    • 8:30-9:00 Transfer (chartered car; Hotel → Nijo Castle)
    • 9:00-10:10 Nijo Castle visit
    • 10:10-10:50 Transfer (chartered car: Nijo Castle → Arashiyama/Togetsukyo Bridge)
    • 10:50-11:50 Arashiyama visit
    • 11:50-12:00 (Transfer (chartered car: Tenryu-ji parking lot → Restaurant/Cafe Dining Sera)
    • 12:00-12:50 Lunch (@Cafe Dining Sera)
    • 12:50-13:20 Transfer (chartered car: Restaurant → Kyoto Imperial Palace)
    • 13:20-14:10 Kyoto Imperial Palace visit
    • 14:10-14:30 Transfer (chartered car; Kyoto Imperial Palace → in front of Starbucks near Nishiki Market)
    • 14:30 Tour ends at Starbucks near Nishiki Market.　　We said goodbye there.

    What Can You See on a Private Kyoto Day Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. It was their first time in Kyoto, and they had entered Kyoto after visiting Takayama and Kanazawa. I took them to Nijo Castle, Arashiyama (Togetsukyo Bridge, the garden of Tenryu-ji Temple [Sogenchi Garden, Hyakkaen Garden], and the bamboo grove), and the Kyoto Imperial Palace. In the morning there was a little rain, which actually worked out well for the tour since it helped us avoid the extreme heat. In the afternoon, however, the tour took place in intense heat. The guests commented that they had no interest at all in shrines and temples, so although I had planned to include a visit to Nonomiya Shrine, I decided to skip it. The guests were especially very interested in Japanese gardens. Among the group, some commented that the garden of the Kyoto Imperial Palace was the best, while the others said Nijo Castle was their favorite.

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

    Tour Report by Michi

    My name is (Mr.)Michiharu Aioi and I worked at Electronic Manufacturing Company (Panasonic) for more than 40 years in charge of overseas sales.
    I learned a lot in these 40 years and now I would like to contribute to the promotion of mutual understanding with foreign countries being involved in tourism busines utilizing my long experience in my previous company. I will do my best to make each trip very fruitful for each foreign visitor.
    As for my language ability, in addition to English, I can speak Spanish which I used in my job and I can communicate with Chinese people with intermediate level. Finally It is my great pleasure if my activity could work in the mutual understang with foreign visitors. Thanks a Lot !

    Request Booking

    Jul 19, 2026
    Wander35832177180
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Kyoto temple tour
    Our Kyoto guided tour (Aioi Michiharu) was a…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Abby_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour. Highly recommend
    Michi our guide was excellent!…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Javier P
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto gems
    Michi was incredibly courteous and informative.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Beth_D
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Tour and Guide
    Michi was an excellent tour guide! He…

  • Tokyo: Meiji Shrine & Akihabara

    Tokyo: Meiji Shrine & Akihabara

    Tokyo Family-Friendly Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    August, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00　Meet up @ Hotel Otemachi
    • 08:40　Shibuya Scramble Crossing・Hachiko
    • 09:10　Meiji Shrine
    • 10:40　Imperial Palace
    • 11:20　Lunch @ Numazu Uogashi Marunouchi Building branch
    • 12:30　Senso-ji Temple
    • 13:20　Akihabara
    • 14:15　Disband @ Hotel Otemachi

    What Is a Private Tokyo Sightseeing Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, Senso-ji, and Akihabara The guests were a group from Europe visiting Japan for the first time. After sightseeing in Tokyo and Hakone, they planned to continue to Kyoto and Osaka. At Meiji Shrine, they seemed impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere, which was very different from Shibuya. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with great interest to historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo Shogunate. At Senso-ji, they were intrigued by explanations about the differences between temples and shrines and about the Kaminarimon Gate. In Akihabara, one of the guests showed great interest in game and anime shops. Since I responded to 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 1SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)～Shibuya210JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya～Harajuku150JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 4TrainTokyo～Ueno170JPY
    Section 5SubwayUeno～Asakusa180JPY
    Section 6SubwayAsakusa～Suehirocho (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 7TrainAkihabara～Tokyo150JPY
    Total1,250JPY

    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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    Jul 10, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Beautiful Tour of Kamakura
    Seizo Kamiuto was out…

    Jun 9, 2026
    stacy_grana
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with an experienced guide
    Our guide, Seizo, was amazing.…

    Jun 6, 2026
    U9351HJjakes
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Seizo Kamiuto was great and super knowledgeable. He had a…

    May 20, 2026
    HugoJ670
    Tripadvisor review: Edo Tokyo & Japanese Culture Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Tokio in de zon
    Seizo Kaminto is een uitstekende…

  • Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima & Daisho-in Temple

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima & Daisho-in Temple

    Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Miyajimaguchi Ferry Terminal Meet
    • 11:00 Miyajima
    • 13:00 Itsukushima Shrine
    • 14:00 Daisho-in Temple
    • 14:00 Miyajima Disband

    What Is a Private Miyajima Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided guests visiting from North America around Miyajima. The day before, I had sent the meeting point at Miyajima Port along with a map, but on the day the guests were mistakenly waiting at Ujina Port. Since this was not the first time such a case had happened, I kindly asked them to come to Miyajimaguchi by taxi, and they gladly agreed. After we successfully met up, we strolled through Miyajima wrapped in a refreshing breeze and enjoyed the shrines and temples at a leisurely pace. There was no awkwardness at all, and the tour proceeded in a warm and pleasant atmosphere.

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

    Tour Report by Yuji

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

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

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

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

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

  • Fukuoka in One Day: Kushida Shrine & Tenjin PARCO

    Fukuoka in One Day: Kushida Shrine & Tenjin PARCO

    Fukuoka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 11:30 Kushida Shrine
    • 12:00 Canal City Hakata
    • 15:00 Sake Merchant Sugawara
    • 16:00 Tenjin PARCO
    • 16:30 Disband

    What Is a Private Fukuoka Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Because I had learned in advance by email that the guests wanted to know about Japanese cultural customs, I made a point of carefully explaining etiquette at shrines, what shrines mean to Japanese people, and what festivals are all about. At Kushida Shrine, there was a decorative float on display, so I also explained the Yamakasa festival. During our conversation I learned that one of the guests liked azuki red beans, so I recommended the zenzai at Kawabata Shopping Arcade and the Umegae-mochi at Kushida Shrine. The guests enjoyed shopping at Canal City, and we also took purikura photo booth pictures together. In addition, I guided them to a sake shop run by a senior from my university days, where they enjoyed Japanese sake.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayMuromi～Nakasu-Kawabata260JPY
    Section 2SubwayKushida-Jinja-mae～Tenjin-Minami210JPY
    Section 3OtherTenjin～Muromi260JPY
    Total730JPY

    Tour Report by Coco

    Hello, I’m Rikako, but please call me Coco. It would be my absolute pleasure to show you around my hometown of Nagasaki. Having performed in the Nagasaki Kunchi Festival in my childhood, I developed a deep interest in history and cultural exchange. This motivated me to become a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter during my university years. Since then, I have gained valuable experience—from assisting ambassadors at the Nagasaki Peace Memorial Ceremony to handling a wide variety of tours, including private and coach tours, site inspections, international conference support, and VIP hospitality.
    Explaining about Nagasaki’s history and culture is the most important to me. It is not only about this. I would love to provide genuine care so that your time in Nagasaki remains in your heart forever.
    I’m truly looking forward to guiding you in Nagasaki 🙂

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    Jul 21, 2026
    Dawnery_V
    Viator review: Nagasaki Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Beautiful city. Great guide.
    Rikako was a great guide. She…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Todd_C
    Viator review: Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Had a very nice…
    Had a very nice experience. Coco was very…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Explore34946025848
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nagasaki
    Really good day out with a local guide, very informative about…

    Apr 4, 2026
    Giovanni_M
    Viator review: Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Good
    Nagasaki is a very interesting tour
    I would recommend…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Yasaka Shrine

    Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Yasaka Shrine

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00　Meet at the hotel
    • 9:45　Nijo Castle
    • 11:20　Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 12:30　Lunch at Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 13:10　Sannenzaka, Hokan-ji Temple Five-Story Pagoda, Yasaka Koshindo
    • 14:00　Yasaka Shrine
    • 15:15　Drop off at Kyoto Station, guide ends

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nijo Castle and Kiyomizu-dera The guests were visitors from Europe. Since I had once lived nearby, we hit it off talking about that. The plan was to start from Fushimi Inari, but as they had visited there the previous time, we changed course to Nijo Castle. I explained the castle and its palace, as well as the shogun and the emperor. They were surprised by the Japanese faith in which the emperor is regarded as a deity. They were also impressed by the magnificence. We visited Kiyomizu-dera, seeing the standing statue of the Thousand-Armed Kannon, the veranda, and the Otowa Waterfall. They said that although they had already stayed in Japan for two weeks and seen various temples, this was the most interesting one. We toasted with Japanese beer at lunch. They said it was far better than beer back home! On our stroll from Sannenzaka, they purchased a few souvenirs. Finally, I saw them off at Kyoto Station, where their accommodation was, and the guided tour came to an end.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto～Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijojo-mae～Sanjo Keihan220JPY
    Section 3TrainSanjo (Kyoto Prefecture)～Kiyomizu-Gojo170JPY
    Section 4TrainKyoto Kawaramachi～Karasuma170JPY
    Section 5SubwayShijo (Kyoto Municipal)～Kyoto220JPY
    Total1,040JPY

    Tour Report by Shuji

    My name is Shuji, meaning “Excellent Manager” in English. I was born in Hiroshima 1952. I have 2 children and 3 grandchildren.
    After graduating Kyoto Univ. I joined Mitsubishi-UFJ Bank, Osaka Branch where I met my wife who was a master of Englsih, so I started studying English.
    The bank allowed me to go to Columbia Graduate business school in New York and got MBA Degree there. I worked in London and Manchester Branch.
    During staying in U.K., I was introduced by BBC and Financial Times News Paper about my achievement there. I was selected as a personal assistant and interpreter for the President of the Bank.
    I made many business trips with him to overseas countries. I experienced as an interpreter for meeting late Henry Kissinger and the President of Citi. Corp.
    I changed the job to ORIX corporation, there I was promoted to a Board Member. When the company had acquired Dutch company, I was a member as an accountant to check the Dutch company’s statements of accounts.
    My hobbies are cooking, singing a song, playing tennis & golf, enjoy seeing arts especially opera & musical, travel. I am also busy with taking care of grandchildren. I passed Government Licensed Guide Exam. in 2016. After I retired in 2017, I started guide job as a part timer. So far, I accomplished guide job more than 500 times.
    My area coverage is from Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji to Kyoto, Nara, Oaka, Hiroshima. I am also able to guide Tea Ceremony, Maiko/Geisha, Sushi Making, Calligraphy, Sumo, Samurai, etc. I can speak excellent English. My knowledge is very wide and deep about not only sightseeing places but Japanese History, Culture, Religion, Daily Life. I know many foreign countries and people. I love talking with all kinds of people including babies with interesting humor.
    By the way, I look young for my age of 74.

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    Jul 16, 2026
    salomons666
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto fun
    Amazing with our guide Shuji very kind and acknowledge

    Jul 15, 2026
    P9099TXkennethr
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    A great day
    A great day in the Company of mr. Shuji.

    Jun 28, 2026
    A
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    AmyfromPlano
    Shuji is the best! Once we booked this tour, he reached…

    Jun 22, 2026
    yeseniag981
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Osaka Tour
    Our tour guide Shuji was amazing. He was…