Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:25 Meet up @ Tokyo Tower
    • 2. 10:30 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 11:30 Visit @ Ueno Park
    • 4. 11:45 Visit @ Tokyo National Museum
    • 5. 13:10 Lunch @ Obon de Gohan
    • 6. 14:05 Travel: Subway
    • 7. 14:15 Visit @ Asakusa, Matsuchiyama Shoten (Rickshaw Experience)
    • 8. 15:25 Visit @ Sensoji Temple
    • 9. 16:25 Disband @ Tobu Asakusa Station

    What Is a Private Tokyo Cultural Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Ueno and Asakusa This was a very fulfilling and enjoyable tour. I guided the group mostly along the itinerary that had been prepared in advance, and the time allocation turned out to be close to ideal. The group was based in North America. Since the guests seemed to have a particular interest in Japanese culture and history, I studied in advance before visiting the Tokyo National Museum. Some of the guests also showed interest in artifacts related to archaeology. Because some of the guests preferred kosher food, I took care with the meal arrangements. The restaurant we used in Ueno is a place that often has a line on weekends, but on this day we were able to get in without much of a wait. Since we seemed to have some extra time in Asakusa, I arranged a rickshaw experience at the request of the guests. Because the course included Matsuchiyama Shoten, a spot I do not usually visit, I chose that one. I rode along with one of the guests, and I could clearly tell how delighted they were. As I heard the group planned to visit Tokyo Skytree after the tour, I saw them off at Tobu Asakusa Station at the end and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKamiyacho~Ueno210JPY
    Section 2SubwayUeno~Asakusa180JPY
    Total390JPY

    Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
    I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
    I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
    One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
    Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
    I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

    Jul 21, 2026
    G848SWmaribelm
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
    The tour experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Cezary P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour of Tokyo!
    Sam, was outstanding! Showed…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Michael_C
    Tokyo tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a wonderful guide -…

    Jun 18, 2026
    David_W
    Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Fish Market Tour
    Great tour. Got to see…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 08:50 Meet up@Shangri-La Tokyo
    • 2. 09:00 Travel∶On foot
    • 3. 09:15 Stay@Imperial Palace East Garden
    • 4. 10:25 Travel∶Subway
    • 5. 10:50 Stay@Tsukiji
    • 6. 11:50 Lunch@Tsukiji Sushisei Tsukiji Shinkan
    • 7. 12:25 Travel∶Subway
    • 8. 13:00 Stay@Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 9. 13:10 Travel∶Subway
    • 10. 13:20 Stay@Meiji Shrine
    • 11. 14:30 Stay@Takeshita Street
    • 12. 14:50 Disband@Uniqlo Harajuku Store

    What Does a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace East Gardens, Tsukiji, Meiji Shrine, and Takeshita Street The guests were a group from North America. The English of one of the guests had a slight accent that was a little hard to follow, but we managed to communicate reasonably well. Since they had a one-day pass valid only for the Tokyo Metro, we made all of our movements using the Tokyo Metro. I used my own Suica. The first stop, the Imperial Palace East Gardens, was a bit of a distance away, but since it was within walking distance of the hotel, we walked there through the underground passage. The guests were interested in historical places, and it was quite well received. As they seemed to like seafood, we had lunch in Tsukiji. I had planned to decide on the destination after Meiji Shrine once I understood the makeup of the group, and since one of the guests seemed likely to be interested in the shops in Harajuku, I also guided them along Takeshita Street. Because the various spots were relatively close to one another, we ended up with some extra time in the latter half. After the tour, the guests wanted to go shopping at UNIQLO, so after strolling along Takeshita Street I took them once again to the UNIQLO Harajuku store, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Shibuya210JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Total570JPY

    Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
    I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
    I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
    One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
    Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
    I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

    Jul 21, 2026
    G848SWmaribelm
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
    The tour experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Cezary P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour of Tokyo!
    Sam, was outstanding! Showed…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Michael_C
    Tokyo tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a wonderful guide -…

    Jun 18, 2026
    David_W
    Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Fish Market Tour
    Great tour. Got to see…

  • Tokyo Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour

    Tokyo Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 15:00 Akasaka Restaurant – 16:00 Fukagawa Fudodo – 17:00 Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine – 18:00 Nihonbashi – 19:00 Kanda Myojin Shrine – 20:00 Ameyoko – 21:00 Disband at Ueno Station

    What's a Private Family Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private tour of Tokyo for guests visiting from North America. The tour started from a specified restaurant in Akasaka. We headed to Fukagawa, where a summer festival was taking place, and experienced a "goma fire ritual" at a temple. Although the loud beat of the taiko drums came as a surprise, the guests enjoyed this out-of-the-ordinary experience. At Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine, we came across the mikoshi portable shrines for the "Water-Throwing Festival," whose main event was scheduled two days later. After savoring this seasonal summer sight, we moved to Nihonbashi to enjoy matcha. Following a cup of tea, we strolled through Kanda Myojin Shrine and Ameyoko, giving the guests a full taste of the many different faces of Tokyo.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTameike-Sanno Station / Minato-ku, Tokyo~Monzen-Nakacho180JPY
    Section 2SubwaySuehirocho (Tokyo)~Ueno-Hirokoji180JPY
    Total360JPY

    Welcome to Japan. My name is Michio, your tour guide in Tokyo and Japan. I was born and grown up in Tokyo, and still living in western suburb of Tokyo with my wife, except for 10 years outside of Japan travelling and living in 60 countries. So I might have visited your country and still remember a few words.
    Japan has unique history, nature and culture, and there are plenty of secrets and wonders behind them such as food culture, Zen and Ninja.
    So please explore and discover the hidden and most beautiful part of Japan together. Let’s experience!

    Oct 25, 2025
    Carla_G
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking…
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking tour was fantastic! Michio…

    Oct 24, 2025
    410trishab
    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 10/10 — Outstanding Tour with Michio and Nobuhiko!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from…

    Oct 11, 2025
    GoPlaces52694049181
    We enjoyed our time in Tokyo with Michio our tour guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We…

    Oct 10, 2025
    PiscesV
    Sushi for breakfast at 630am? Yes please!!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Sanjusangendo & Kiyomizu-dera

    Kyoto in One Day: Sanjusangendo & Kiyomizu-dera

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet @ Hyatt Regency Kyoto
    • 9:40-10:50 Sightseeing at Sanjusangendo
    • 11:00-11:15 Museum Front → Kiyomizu-michi, Bus 230 yen
    • 11:30-12:45 Sightseeing at Kiyomizu-dera
    • 13:15-14:45 Lunch @ Ishibei-koji Mamecha
    • 14:50-15:20 Sightseeing at Yasaka Pagoda, Sannenzaka
    • 15:30 Disband @ Kiyomizu-dera approach

    Can You Do a Private Day Trip in Kyoto? A Licensed Guide's Report on Sanjusangendo, Kiyomizu-dera, and a Kaiseki Lunch The guests were a group visiting from North America. Since they were staying at a hotel nearby, we started at the adjacent Sanjusangendo Temple. They seemed to grasp the Eight Legions easily, and they were deeply moved by the solemnity of the more than one thousand Buddhist statues. After that, we took a bus to Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The approach was so crowded that it was difficult even to move around. For lunch, we went to a restaurant I have been using often recently. In a calm and relaxed atmosphere, the guests enjoyed a Japanese kaiseki meal. We had planned to visit Kodai-ji Temple after lunch, but since the guests were tired, we finished a little early and they returned to the hotel by taxi.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusMuseum Sanjusangendo-mae/Kyoto City Bus~Kiyomizu-michi/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total230JPY

    Hello! I am Andy Murao. I love this job as I can visit various destinations with the people from all over the world. I am always thinking that I could help you know more about Japan and understand the attractiveness of Japan.

    I would like to provide a tour in accordance with your request and preference. Please let me know what you want to see, eat, experience, etc. and then I will propose a schedule based on them.

    There is one point to note. I like walking very much, so I might be a guide who forces you to take long walks.

    I look forward to attending you in Japan.

    Best regards,

    Andy Murao

    Jul 13, 2026
    webstere2025
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent
    Andy(Atsushi) was great and communicated with us beforehand about our…

    Jun 21, 2026
    Catherine_D
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in Osaka
    Andy was great . On time and patience…

    Jun 6, 2026
    eyeessess
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour!
    Andy Murao was an amazing and wonderful tour guide.…

    Jun 5, 2026
    Janice_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 9hr Private Tour (Kobe Dep. ) with Licensed Guide
    Great tour of Kyoto
    It was a good tour…

  • Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 09:00 Kanazawa Cruise Terminal Start
    • Transfer Taxi Kanazawa Station
    • Transfer Bus Hashibacho
    • AM 10:40- AM 11:30 Higashi Chaya District ( Gold Leaf Ice Cream, Shima, Utasu Shrine )
    • Transfer Bus Kenrokuen-shita
    • AM 11:50 -PM12:30 Kenrokuen Garden Tour
    • PM 12:30- 13:10 Kanazawa Castle Park Hishi Yagura Gojikken Nagaya Hashizumemon Tsuzuki Yagura Gyokusen'inmaru Tour
    • Transfer Bus To Omicho 
    • PM 13:30- 14:00 Lunch break at Omicho
    • Transfer Bus Korinbo
    • PM14:20- 15:00 Nagamachi Samurai District Nomura Family Residence, Takada Family Residence, Ashigaru Museum Tour
    • PM 15:00 Tour End

    Title: What Is a Private Cruise Port Tour from Kanazawa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report We met at the Kanazawa Cruise Terminal. Today the taxi stand was relatively empty, so after discussing options, the guests took a taxi while I drove my own car to Kanazawa Station, where we met up again. Since there is almost no public transportation from Kanazawa Port to Kanazawa Station, we usually advise guests to come to Kanazawa Station via a cruise-arranged shuttle bus before starting the tour, but because it was the group's first visit to Japan, we met at the cruise terminal instead. Incidentally, when the number of participants is a multiple of four, most taxis cannot accommodate the guide alone, which is why we handle it this way. I wonder whether it might be possible to set pricing in advance that takes additional taxi costs into account. The cost of a cruise-arranged shuttle bus is at least 20 USD round trip per person. It was crowded due to the Obon holiday period, but the tour itself went smoothly, travel was easy, and the guests enjoyed themselves. We saw the guests off in a taxi to Kanazawa Port at Nagamachi, ending the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKanazawa Station/Hokuriku Railroad Bus~Hashibacho/Hokuriku Railroad Bus210JPY
    Section 2BusHashibacho/Hokuriku Railroad Bus~Kenrokuen-shita・Kanazawa Castle/Hokuriku Railroad Bus210JPY
    Section 3BusKorinbo/Hokuriku Railroad Bus~Musashigatsuji・Omicho Market/Hokuriku Railroad Bus210JPY
    Section 4BusMusashigatsuji・Omicho Market/Hokuriku Railroad Bus~Korinbo/Hokuriku Railroad Bus210JPY
    Total840JPY

    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!

    Jul 25, 2026
    Ann W
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Incredible tour, one of the highlights of my…

    Jul 18, 2026
    Geert73
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Well-Organized and Informative Tour of Kanazawa
    We, a…

    Jul 15, 2026
    G5010ZVmelodys
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Local Food & Tea Culture Tour with Licensed Guide
    Number one guide for personalised touring of Kanazawa
    Our…

    Jul 11, 2026
    rikkes490
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Rigtig god guidet tur
    Rigtig god oplevelse og gode forklaringer

    とても良いガイドツアーでした。
    とても良い体験でした。説明も分かりやすく、とても良かったです。

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Odawara Station, 10:27 Train from Odawara Station, 11:09 Train from Hakone-Yumoto, Gora Station 12:08 Cable car to Sounzan, Ropeway to Owakudani, Sightseeing, Ropeway to Togendai, 14:20 Pirate ship, 14:55 Hakonemachi Port, Lunch at Hotoriya, then visit and shopping at Maruyama Bussan, After shopping, at customer's request, arrange taxi to Odawara Station, 16:05 Board and disband
    •  
    • Sounzan

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Owakudani, Lake Ashi, and Fuji Views The guests came to Hakone as their final sightseeing destination before spending one relaxing day in Tokyo and then returning to North America. Due to the holiday season, the ropeway had a very long line, and we had no choice but to spend time waiting, so lunch at Hakonemachi Port ended up being at 3:00. Even so, we enjoyed a delicious meal that also served as a chance to introduce kanji characters. The presentation at the local products shop was enjoyed with applause, and the guests made various purchases. The guests had visited Japan several times before and had previously bought puzzle boxes as souvenirs, but coming to the place of origin this time, they were very satisfied. Today the foothills of Mount Fuji were visible, and we were just barely able to take photos. From the pirate ship, the guests were able to enjoy the view of the red torii gate.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOdawara Station~Odawara Station5,000JPY
    Total5,000JPY

    I am Hiroki Morikawa :Hiro:, English guide living with my wife ,just a hop skip and jump from Hakone, Kamakura, Tokyo and the Mt. Fuji.
    I am a friendly grandfather of 4 grandchildren.
    I would love to help you enjoy Japan, using my 3 strong points.
    First: I am used to dealing with any kind of matters. I have experienced various situations in the 40 years of my working life.
    Second: I am good at making a friendly atmosphere between you and local people to help you enjoy Japan. I was raised in western Japan, studied in northern Japan and now live in central Japan. So I know various local cultures and dialects to communicate with a wide variety of people.
    Third: I can explain things from a technical point of view.
    For example, how the Great Buddha was constructed, because I am a master of engineering graduated from Hokkaido University.
    Please enjoy Japan with me. See you soon!!
    dummy

    Jun 30, 2026
    G2432BLtimothyc
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Full Day Tour with Guide and Vehicle
    6 hour tour of Hakone
    we had a great experience with…

    Jun 25, 2026
    T7734IPbrandons
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in hakone
    Niro was perfect for us. He was…

    Jun 8, 2026
    JasonB6980
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hiro-san knows Hakone!
    Our guide, Hiro-san, did a wonderful job introducing…

    Jun 7, 2026
    Tourist31988989961
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura 8 hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide from Tokyo
    Great Day and Tour
    Kamakura was amazing. Enjoyed…

  • Hyogo in One Day: Koko-en Garden & Himeji Castle

    Hyogo in One Day: Koko-en Garden & Himeji Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet @ JR Himeji Station
    • 11:45 @ Mount Shosha, Engyoji Temple
    • 14:15 @ Koko-en Garden
    • 15:00 @ Himeji Castle
    • 17:00 Disband @ JR Himeji Station

    Can You Do a Private Day Tour of Himeji Castle and Engyoji Temple? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe, and today's tour again took place in very high temperatures. Communication in English was somewhat difficult for most of the group. Some of the guests seemed very interested in Japan and spoke a little Japanese. Rather than focusing on each spot, the group appeared to enjoy photography, taking many pictures with a high-end Japanese camera. At Engyoji Temple, however, everyone visited with genuine interest and even rang the temple bell on the grounds. Around the time we finished touring inside Himeji Castle, we were caught in heavy rain. On the way back to Himeji Station, we stopped about three times to take breaks and shelter from the rain. Most of the group seemed quite tired from the heat and humidity. After the tour, the group planned to return to Kyoto and had reserved tickets, but since we arrived at the station early, I helped them change the departure time before we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherJR Himeji Station~Ropeway Shosha Station1,700JPY
    Total1,700JPY

    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

    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: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Gion

    Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Gion

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 to 10:20 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 10:45 to 11:30 Sanjusangendo
    • 12:00 to 12:40 Nanzenji Temple
    • 13:30 to 14:15 Ginkakuji Temple
    • 14:45 to 15:30 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 16:15 to 17:00 Gion

    Title: What's a Private History-Focused Day Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. Some of the guests had come to Japan for a long-awaited reunion. One of the guests had an interest in Japanese history, and the destinations chosen reflected this, including Sanjusangendo, the Kyoto Imperial Palace, and Ginkaku-ji, all sites connected to Japanese history. They said they were very glad to have come to Kyoto. They were looking forward to visiting Nara the next day to enjoy interacting with the deer. The private one-day tour of Kyoto was led by a government-licensed guide from [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides serving all 47 prefectures.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari~Keihan Shichijo/Princess Line170JPY
    Section 3BusHigashiyama Shichijo/Kyoto City Bus~Higashiyama Sanjo (Higashiyama Subway Station)/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4SubwayHigashiyama (Kyoto)~Keage220JPY
    Section 5BusNanzenji・Eikando-michi/Kyoto City Bus~Ginkakuji-michi/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 6BusGinkakuji-michi/Kyoto City Bus~Karasuma Imadegawa (Imadegawa Subway Station)/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 7BusKarasuma Imadegawa (Imadegawa Subway Station)/Kyoto City Bus~Gion/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total1,460JPY

    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 !!

    Dec 30, 2024
    shannono1010
    Haru is a Rock Star
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a fantastic guide. He explained…

    Dec 29, 2024
    Ali O
    Amazing!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was amazing on our tour of Nara. He was…

    Dec 4, 2024
    D5658ZEjohnr
    Trip to some of the Kyoto sites on our visit to Japan.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with…

    Dec 3, 2024
    Charlie_Jane00
    Kyoto Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a well organised and very informative guide. He…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace East & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace East & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hotel Nishishinjuku
    • 9:55 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 11:30 Asakusa (Skytree photos)
    • 12:15 Lunch @ Coffee Shop Sunny
    • 13:55 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 14:30 Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observatory
    • 15:15 Disband in front of Shinjuku Isetan

    What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report There was not much sunlight in the morning, but it grew stronger in the afternoon. I offered the guests a parasol, but they bought one for themselves in Asakusa. They did not take many photos on their own, so I often offered to take pictures for them. After visiting Sensoji Temple, they wanted to have something light at a coffee shop, so I took them to one. It was an old-fashioned shop, and they enjoyed sandwiches. The plan had been to see them off at the Hotel to end the tour, but this was changed, and they wished to go to a department store and finish there instead. I took them to Isetan, where the tour concluded.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassNishishinjuku~Takebashi700JPY
    Section 2Free PassOtemachi (Tokyo)~Asakusa0JPY
    Section 3Free PassAsakusa~Shibuya0JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya~Tochomae330JPY
    Section 5Free PassNishishinjuku~Shinjuku-sanchome0JPY
    Total1,030JPY

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…

  • Nara in One Day: Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Deer Park & Nakatani-do

    Nara in One Day: Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Deer Park & Nakatani-do

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Kintetsu-Nara Station (Start of Tour → 16:30 end of tour)
    • (bus 250y each)
    • 10:50-11:10 Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Deer Park
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • 11:20-50 Kasuga-taisha Shrine (UNESCO World Heritage)
    • entrance 700 yen
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • 12:20-30 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill:
    • former katana sword manufacturer's etc.
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • 12:50- Todaiji Temple (UNESCO World Heritage)
    • 12:50-13:20 lunch at Emado-chaya
    • 13:20-40 Todaiji's Nigatsudo Hall
    • (walk 5 minutes)
    • 13:50 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • 14:00-30 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall
    • entrance 800 yen   (walk 5 minutes)
    • 14:40-50 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate)
    • (walk 20 minutes)
    • 15:30- Naramachi: Sake tasting, Traditional house of merchant etc.
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • 16:50 Nakatani-do
    • (walk 5 minutes)
    • 17:00 (End of Tour) back at Kintetsu-Nara Station

    What Is a Private Family-Friendly Kyoto and Tokyo Tour Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. I had wondered what the local Italian dialect might sound like, but it sounded like ordinary Italian to me. One member of the group, who was studying applied physics at a university in Japan, kindly translated my explanations into Italian as needed. The rest of the group seemed to understand only basic English. Perhaps due to the high temperature and humidity, part of the group found the day tiring, and our schedule fell behind. Even though I had told them in advance that a hat was essential, they came without one. When I offered one of the hats I always keep in my backpack for guests to use, they would not wear it, which was troubling. I would appreciate it if [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) could inform guests of something along these lines: "A hat is absolutely necessary during the Japanese summer. Many overseas travelers are taken to the hospital by ambulance for heatstroke. Guides are also responsible for the health and safety of their guests, so if a guide judges it necessary, they will recommend wearing a hat. In such cases, please do wear it; otherwise, [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/) cannot take responsibility."

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKintetsu-Nara Station/Nara Kotsu~Todaiji Great Buddha Hall・Kasuga-taisha Shrine (front)/Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Total250JPY

    Hello! Thank you for choosing Nara! I bet you’ll love Nara. I specialize in Nara because Nara is the unique place where in one day you can cover the history and religions of Japan from the ancient times to the post war era while enjoying rambling in the UNESCO World Heritage park, having communication with lovely deer, surrounded with the beautiful nature.
    I grew up in Nara, went university in Kyoto, enjoyed teaching at high schools and a university in Osaka. The three former capitals of Japan are home to me.
    After retiring from teaching I began guiding so that I can meet various people from various corners of the world with a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Each time I guide, I find it hugely rewarding because I learn a lot from my guests sharing the history, culture and all that I know about Nara, Kyoto and Osaka.
    I used to be a marathon runner, mountain climber and skier though I am not much of them anymore.
    What I especially recommend is to stay in Nara a couple of days and enjoy communicating with friendly deer while visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nara in early morning, temples and shrines at night are well worth experiencing.

    May 16, 2026
    I3520JTcristinat
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nara with family
    Excellent tour with Junichi!!! Perfect English speaking guide and…

    May 3, 2026
    Maria_J
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyable day in Nara
    We spent 6 hours in Nara with Junichi…

    Apr 11, 2026
    64sandig
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Osaka DEP. with Licensed Guide
    ????? Absolutely Outstanding ? Junichi Made Our Nara Day…

    Mar 30, 2026
    dpadillachavez
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
    Great day at Nara!
    Best tour on Nara, Junichi…