Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Takeshita Street & Shibuya

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Takeshita Street & Shibuya

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hotel Ryogoku
    • 10:45 Takeshita Street
    • 11:25 Meiji Shrine
    • 12:25 Shibuya (lunch, Shibuya PARCO)
    • 14:00 Disband

    Title: What Is a Private Family-Friendly Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report from Harajuku to Shibuya The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. One of the guests had worked in Japan around thirty years ago and could hold simple conversations in Japanese. However, since the group was traveling based on memories from that time, they were getting around without Suica or PASMO cards and were having considerable trouble buying tickets. I explained that the cards are easy to purchase, that the card fee is essentially free since it is a deposit, that they are very convenient, and that one no longer has to worry about ticket prices when transferring between lines, but the suggestion was declined, so today we traveled using only JR lines. We also adjusted the route and restaurant choices because one of the guests was sensitive to the heat and did not have much stamina. On the way to Harajuku, that guest became tired, so we bought a snack on Takeshita Street, but this time a bubble milk tea whose sweetness could not be adjusted led to too much sugar and the guest felt unwell. We cooled down and had fun at a capsule toy store, and after walking around Meiji Shrine it seemed the sugar had settled, so we enjoyed shabu-shabu in Shibuya. The group had been very much looking forward to visiting Shibuya PARCO, and they purchased a lot of Jujutsu Kaisen goods at the JUMP SHOP.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainRyogoku～Harajuku230JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku～Shibuya150JPY
    Total380JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

    Hi, I’m Sam.
    I am happy to welcome you all to Japan.

    Since I was a child, my parents welcomed many international students into our home and I had many opportunities to interact with them. My mother is a translator, and I have always seen her guiding foreigners around Japan, so it was natural for me to start doing the same.

    I am good at guiding people to popular places such as Shibuya, Harajuku, Shinjuku, and Asakusa, as well as photogenic spots in the Tokyo metropolitan area. Since I was a child, I’ve watched anime like Pokémon and played Nintendo games, and I still buy around 100 manga comic books a month. I love shopping in Akihabara! I currently live in Urayasu City, Chiba, so close that I can see fireworks from Disneyland from my house every night.

    Please feel free to ask me anything!

    Request Booking

    Jul 10, 2026
    Brooke_J
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo History Modernized!
    This tour was a wonderful experience.…

    Jun 19, 2026
    Catherine_S
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience!
    We had a wonderful time with Sam, who took our…

    Jun 7, 2026
    Elena_Q
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fun visit to Tokyo!
    Wonderful customized tour of Tokyo with Sam. She…

    May 12, 2026
    Leonard B
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Awesome experience with a very knowledgeable friendly guide.
    We had an…

  • Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:00 Meet @ Himeji Station Central Ticket Gate
    • 2. 09:05 @ Castle View
    • 3. 10:20 @ Mount Shosha Engyoji Temple (Maniden Hall, Daikodo Hall, Jogyodo Hall, Jikido Hall)
    • 4. 11:30 Light meal @ Hazuki Chaya
    • 5. 12:30 @ Koko-en Garden
    • 6. 13:30 @ Himeji Castle
    • 7. 14:30 Disband @ Himeji Station

    What's a 5-Hour Private Tour of Himeji Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Engyoji, Koko-en, and Himeji Castle Today's guests were visitors from Asia on their first trip to Japan. We visited Engyoji Temple on Mount Shosha, Koko-en Garden, and Himeji Castle. I had explained that this course normally takes more than six hours and would be difficult, but since the guests said, "As long as we can view the Great Keep of Himeji Castle a little, we don't need to climb all the way to the top," we carried it out as a five-hour tour (with the additional hour covered by a volunteer guide). Engyoji Temple, which we visited first, had a serene atmosphere, and the guests were very pleased. It was another hot day, and one of the guests had been perspiring heavily, and after visiting Koko-en Garden said, "I can't walk anymore, so I won't go to Himeji Castle." For this reason, one of the guests waited at Koko-en while I headed to Himeji Castle with the other guest. It seemed that visiting the entire Great Keep of Himeji Castle had not been part of the plan from the start. At Himeji Castle, the plan was to see only the basement floor of the Great Keep, so we did just that, then returned to Koko-en and took a taxi back to Himeji Station, ending the tour. The guests were very pleased.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHimeji Station (North Exit)／Shinki Bus～Shosha Ropeway／Shinki Bus320JPY
    Section 2JGA Pre-Approved Fee[Engyoji Microbus Round Trip (Shinojo Ropeway Summit Station～Below Maniden Hall)]500JPY
    Section 3BusShosha Ropeway／Shinki Bus～Himeji Station (North Exit)／Shinki Bus320JPY
    Total1,140JPY

    Tour Report by Norio

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in One Day: Ginza & Shinjuku

    Tokyo in One Day: Ginza & Shinjuku

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00　Meet at the hotel
    • 10:50 Tsukiji Outer Market, Namiyoke Shrine, Higashi Honganji Temple
    • 12:20 Ginza
    • 13:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 14:20 Takeshita Street
    • 15:00 Shibuya
    • 15:30 Shinjuku
    • 16:15 End of tour

    Title: What's a First-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like Before Traveling to Osaka? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania who had arrived in Japan just the night before. They planned to stay in Tokyo for several nights and then head to Osaka, so today's tour was intended to visit the main areas and help them plan their sightseeing for the days ahead. We visited the destinations they had requested in advance. First, I took them to the Tsukiji Outer Market and explained mainly the history and current state of Tsukiji, but since it was right after breakfast, they said they would like to try their beloved seafood tasting on another day. Next, we visited Namiyoke Shrine and Higashi Honganji Temple, where I explained the differences between Buddhism and Shinto, the influence each has had on Japanese culture, and the differences in how to worship, so they could use it as a reference when visiting shrines and temples later. In Ginza, which we visited next, I introduced the main shops and department stores for their future shopping reference. One of the guests was interested in Japanese cosmetics and purchased a few items at a drugstore along the way. At Meiji Shrine, we happened to come across a wedding procession that was taking place, and they were very delighted to see the traditional ceremony. On Takeshita Street, after I introduced a "cat cafe" that one of the guests had really wanted to visit, we headed to the Shibuya Crossing, which was crowded as it was the weekend, and they seemed amazed by the huge crowds of people. Finally, near the Hotel where they were staying, I introduced the Shinjuku Godzilla building, the 3D cat advertisement, and "Omoide Yokocho" as a place to enjoy alcohol, and the tour came to an end.

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

    Tour Report by Atsushi

    Hello and welcome to Tokyo!

    I have been working for business with American companies for many years. I have many experiences guiding customers from around the world in Japan and taking Japanese customers to the USA and Europe.

    I now have a national license as a guiding interpreter, and I want to introduce the unique gigantic city of Tokyo and the traditional Japanese culture, which is not shown in the guidebooks, to people worldwide who are interested in it. In addition, I want to introduce various Japanese foods you can enjoy only in Japan.
    Unique experiences such as the Sumo Training Viewing and Tea Ceremony are optionally available.
    Depending on your preference and itinerary, I can guide you in Tokyo, Kamakura, and Hakone so that you can enjoy your time in Japan.

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    Jul 26, 2026
    Kevin_B
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Highly recommend this tour for first time…

    Jun 22, 2026
    Ashish_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best Tour for a Short Visit
    Atsushi-san was an incredibly well-researched and…

    May 27, 2026
    jackie m
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Our guide was really interesting and had…

    Apr 9, 2026
    Lindsey_W
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Atsushi, was…
    Our guide, Atsushi, was great! He met…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Station & cruise ship terminal

    Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Station & cruise ship terminal

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

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:20 Meet at cruise terminal
    • 7:30-7:50 Transfer to Hiroshima Station by taxi
    • 8:06-8:50 Transfer to Miyajima by JR and ferry
    • 8:55-10:50 Miyajima
    • 10:55-12:00 Transfer to Peace Memorial Park by ferry, JR, and streetcar
    • 12:00-12:50 Lunch
    • 12:55-14:30 Peace Memorial Park (Dome, Museum, etc.)
    • 14:40-15:00 Transfer to cruise ship terminal by taxi
    • 15:00 Dismissal

    Can You Do a Private Day Tour of Miyajima and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. Both were gentle, kind, and polite. Timed to coincide with high tide, I took them to Miyajima in the morning and the Peace Memorial Park in the afternoon. On Miyajima, since the Kangensai music festival of Itsukushima Shrine was to be held that evening, the ceremonial boats and accompanying vessels were already out on the water, and combined with the great torii gate floating on the sea, the guests seemed to fully enjoy the enchanting scenery. On Miyajima they also had momiji manju, and for lunch they had okonomiyaki, so I believe they were satisfied with the local food as well.

    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～Yokogawa (Hiroshima Prefecture)330JPY
    Section 3TrainYokogawa (Hiroshima Prefecture)～Genbaku Dome-mae240JPY
    Total990JPY

    Tour Report by TO

    Hi! My name is Kazuhisa To. After completing graduate school, I moved to Hiroshima—and have now lived here for over 42 years. I earned a Ph.D. through a national university’s professional program while working at Mazda Motor Corporation. Five years before retiring from the company, I was seconded to Hiroshima University, a national university, where I served as a specially appointed professor. In addition to my domestic career, I spent a total of about five and a half years living and working abroad. These international experiences have given me valuable cross-cultural understanding and the ability to connect comfortably with guests from around the world. Currently, as a Hiroshima Prefectural Government Licensed Guide Interpreter, I introduce visitors not only to famous attractions such as Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima, but also to the local lifestyle, culture, and culinary delights, tailored to your interests. I hope to provide each guest with a memorable experience that stays in your heart.
    I look forward to meeting you here in Hiroshima!

    Request Booking

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

    Jun 25, 2026
    52leannei
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Amazing day trip and tour to Hiroshima
    My family…

    Jun 14, 2026
    Shannon_M
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide was amazing. He…
    Our guide was amazing. He…

    Jun 14, 2026
    Thomas L
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima Tour with a Great Guide
    Our guide Kazuhisa…

  • Kyoto: Uji Tea House & Shinbashi Area

    Kyoto: Uji Tea House & Shinbashi Area

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ Umekoji Kadensho
    • Transport: Taxi
    • 9:30-11:00 Uji Tea House Tour
    • #1) Yamamasa Koyamaen (Closed)
    • #2) ⁠Nakamura Tokichi Main Store
    • Transport: Taxi
    • 11:30-12:40 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • Transport: Taxi
    • 13:00- 14:15　 Nishiki Market
    • 　　　　Lunch @ (Forgot the restaurant name)
    • 　　　　Break @ Sawawa
    • Transport: Taxi
    • 14:45　Kinkakuji Temple　(Say goodbye to the driver here)
    • (Fumiya (4. Past Sakaimachi, on the left), Tempura Tenkatsu (1. Before Gokomachi, on the left), Fishing Port Direct Fisherman's Hut (2. Past Gokomachi, on the right), Sawawa (3. Past Yanaginobanba, on the right), Nishiki Gyoza (5. Past Sakaimachi, on the right))
    • 15:00-16:00 Kinkakuji Temple
    • Let the van driver go at the point that we reach at Kinkakuji Temple
    • 16:30-18:00 Shinbashi Area-> Hanamikoji Street -> Yasui Kompira Shrine
    • Get off the taxi at Shinbashi Area. Walk to Hanamikoji Street. Get out to Higashioji Street by way of Yasui Kompira Shrine which is famous for the god which is effective to cut the unfavorable bondage
    • 30 minutes before

    What Is a Private Kyoto and Uji Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The original plan was to proceed with the Hozugawa River boat ride, the Arashiyama bamboo grove, Kinkaku-ji, Nishiki Market, Kiyomizu-dera, Gion, and Fushimi Inari Taisha. However, three months before the tour, the guests contacted me to say they would skip the Hozugawa River ride and instead wanted to add a tea shop tour in Uji, that they had booked a separate tour for the Arashiyama bamboo grove on another day and wished to remove it, and that they would visit Kiyomizu-dera on their own. Since neither the original plan nor a revised plan including Uji could possibly fit into six hours, I explained that an extension procedure would be necessary, and they had agreed. But when the three-month mark arrived, the guests hesitated to extend due to budget considerations. As a result, with the approval of [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), the standard six hours would be covered with the assistance of a driver arranged by [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/), and I arranged to be driven to Kinkaku-ji at the end of the standard time. Since I then took on the guiding personally, separate from [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/), I will report on the activities up to the end of the standard time. For this reason, the pre-tour communication with the guests took up a considerable amount of time, and I honestly felt anxious about whether I could carry out the tour enjoyably. However, once I met the guests, the group was very friendly, and the younger members were very polite and listened intently to my explanations, so those worries were dispelled. One of the guests was originally from Asia, and since I myself am studying Chinese, we were able to converse partly in Chinese. As the guests were quite knowledgeable about Japanese culture, our conversation in the car became very lively. Being able to read kanji, they asked me questions I had never even considered, such as "Why is kimono written as gofuku? Isn't it wafuku?" and "What does the place name Fukakusa mean?" In Uji, at the request of one of the guests, we planned to visit Yamamasa Koyamaen, Kanbayashi Shunsho, and Nakamura Tokichi Honten, but Yamamasa Koyamaen was closed. The driver advised that it would be more efficient to go to Nakamura Tokichi Honten before Kanbayashi Shunsho, so we went there first. Since the purpose was shopping, there was no plan to enter the cafe, but the guests were very surprised that, even before the 10:00 opening, many people were already waiting for the cafe. The shop opened at 10:00, and the guests were quite surprised that those wishing to purchase matcha were made to line up in a separate queue. Nonetheless, they bought many items besides matcha and seemed satisfied with the shopping. However, they said they did not want to be kept waiting any longer by touring other shops, so they said the tea shop tour in Uji was enough, and we decided to head to Fushimi Inari Taisha. As it happened, the Motomiya Festival was on July 20, so special decorations were in place, and when I mentioned they were lucky to visit at this time, they were very pleased. Everyone enjoyed taking photos at the specially decorated shrine, and perhaps because of the heat there were surprisingly few people, so they were also able to experience the Omokaru-ishi stone. At Nishiki Market, they wanted to take their time with lunch and shopping. My plan was to head west from Nishiki Tenmangu, but the driver dropped us off at the midpoint, so although I had asked in advance about several preferred lunch spots, we ended up passing a few of them. I told them we had time and could go back, but they said they just wanted to have lunch anywhere, so we decided to walk west. Since one of the guests had said in advance they wanted "chirimen sansho and chili oil furikake," we decided to look for a lunch spot while shopping. At the chili oil furikake shop, one of the guests bought quite a large amount. For lunch, we settled on a place near Takakura-dori — I forget the name — where there were stalls from various shops. Nishiki Market is always crowded, so I usually avoid having lunch there myself, but fortunately the second-floor seating was open, and with no other customers around, the guests could leisurely enjoy fried chicken, gyoza, seafood tempura, and more. After that, we returned to the matcha dessert shop the guests had requested in advance, and they enjoyed ice cream and matcha warabi mochi. They also treated me to some. Overall, they seemed satisfied with Nishiki Market. Then, while pointing out the scenery visible from the car window, we headed to Kinkaku-ji. One of the younger members had just graduated from a university and appeared to be heading into a doctoral program. They had had a chance for an exchange program at Kyoto University but missed it, which was one of the reasons for coming to Japan. Since one of the guests requested that I speak to this member in Japanese as much as possible, I tried speaking a little in Japanese as well. I hoped this would be an opportunity for them to take a greater interest in Japan.

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

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    May 18, 2026
    WENDY_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent day out
    The trip was really well planned and organised, it…

    Sep 21, 2025
    joshsJ915FC
    Super tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Really wonderful tour of markets and geisha district.…

    Jun 16, 2025
    Chanyl C
    Highly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My husband and I really enjoyed the Kyoto tour.…

    May 18, 2025
    Steve J
    A relaxing, enjoyable visit to Arashiyama.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Satori was very kind and…

  • Gifu in Half a Day: Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall

    Gifu in Half a Day: Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall

    Takayama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet the customer
    • 11:00 Enjoy tempura soba at hand-made soba restaurant "Ebisu"
    • 12:00 Watch shamisen and taiko drum performance at rest teahouse "Kikaku"
    • 12:50 Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall
    • 13:30 Take a break at a coffee shop
    • 14:30 Return to "Oyado Koto no Yume" by taxi
    • 15:00 Help with shopping at a convenience store, then return again to "Oyado Koto no Yume"

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Takayama Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Having heard in advance from both the local agent and the guests that the guests could not walk for long periods at a stretch, I made sure to keep a slow walking pace and to include rest breaks along the way. For lunch, the guests requested tempura soba, so I took them to the well-known restaurant "Ebisu." In addition, the guests wished to enjoy a shamisen and taiko performance at "Kikaku," a teahouse of Takayama geisha that had been recommended by the proprietor of their accommodation, so I accompanied them there, used a taxi as requested, and repeatedly arranged places for them to sit down. By responding flexibly in this way, the guests appeared very satisfied.

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

    Tour Report by YOSHI

    Since I completely retired from my position at a railway company and started being involved in the tour guide interpreter business, I have experienced almost all types of guiding through FIT, Long Group Tours, Cruises (Shore Excursions), Incentive Tours, Special Interest Tours (Railway Travel, Pilgrimages), Familiarization Tours (Sales Promotion Tours) etc.
    However, I noticed that I am not fully satisfied to only be a general guide who just manages a tour itinerary provided by tour agents/clients.
    High-end guests have sometimes requested me to answer some enquiries that are actually challenging to answer for Japanese nationals. However, I appreciated those because they provided such a challenge and I felt that they wanted to understand my sense of beauty/values as a guide concerning a new culture for them.
    Every time I host my guest I do my best to prepare the most appropriate information based on three travel elements (appetite, logistics, accommodation). Nevertheless, I decided to aim for higher guiding skills after I was motivated by senior guides whose guiding strategies and gestures were particularly impressive.

    Request Booking

    Jul 5, 2026
    788amarpals
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Top 7 Sights Private Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Private tour Guide in Kyoto- Mr Yoshi
    Mr.…

    Mar 17, 2026
    jodonr2026
    Amazing. Go with Yoshi!
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    We had a fantastic…

    Jan 2, 2026
    Fearless67262385503
    Memorable experience
    Tripadvisor review: Takayama Half-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide, Yoshi-san, a sweet and gentle elderly…

    Oct 17, 2025
    Laura_C
    Amazing experience…
    Viator review: Nagano All Must-Sees 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Amazing experience getting to see sites outside of…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①10:00 Meet at Hotel Kyoto Hachijo-guchi
    • →Move by taxi
    • ②10:45 ~11:20 Honen-in Temple
    • ③11:20~12:00 Philosopher's Path
    • ④12:00 ~13:00 Ginkaku-ji Temple
    • ⑤13:00 Lunch (restaurant in front of Ginkaku-ji Temple's main gate)→Move by taxi
    • ⑥13:40~15:00 Nanzen-ji Temple aqueduct, Hojo→Jumbo taxi not found, so moved by subway and strolled around the Gion area on foot
    • ⑦16:00 Arrive at Gion-Shijo Station
    • ⑧16:45 Disband at Keihan Railway Kyobashi Station

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Kyoto's Higashiyama Area Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. They were staying at a hotel in Osaka, and we had planned to meet at the Kyoto Station tourist information center, but they had trouble finding the location, so we met at a hotel near the Hachijo exit instead. Since they wished to visit quiet sightseeing spots that were not crowded, we toured around the Higashiyama area using a combination of taxi, subway, and walking. As some of the guests appeared to be involved in work related to architecture and design, they seemed to greatly enjoy the tranquil Honen-in Temple, as well as the main hall of Nanzen-ji Temple and the Suirokaku aqueduct. On the way back, as they were uncertain about the train to their hotel, I escorted them to Keihan Kyobashi Station before we parted ways. Although it was a hot day, they thoroughly enjoyed a precious time in Kyoto.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKeage～Higashiyama (Kyoto Prefecture)220JPY
    Section 2TrainGion-Shijo～Yodo320JPY
    Total540JPY

    Tour Report by SAM

    Hello! I am Osamu Kitagawa , National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter(English). Please call me SAM.
    I love Japanese culture, history, and visiting historical places, scenic spots, and fashionable spots as well. I can guide you all over Japan as I have ever visited all prefectures in Japan. I have a global experience in international banking business including residing in Hong Kong and Jakarta. So I’m able to have daily conversations in Indonesian language, too. I’m looking forward to seeing you soon!

    Certification
    Certified Travel Services Manager
    Authorized Tour Conductor
    Kyoto Expert Certification

    Request Booking

    Jul 23, 2026
    svendulrikr
    Tripadvisor review: Nara Day Trip from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide
    Best of Nara
    Amazing trip to Nara with the most…

    Jul 10, 2026
    valerianos862
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Private tour of Tokyo.
    Our guide Sam is very…

    Jun 20, 2026
    Sarah B
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learned how to ride the trains and we went to…

    Apr 14, 2026
    MDMallory
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama and Kamakura 6hr Private Trip Government-Licensed Guide
    The Natural Beauty of Kamakura
    Our guide, Sam, was very knowledgeable…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel-9:45 Meiji Shrine-10:45 Harajuku Takeshita Street-12:00 Tsukiji Outer Market-13:30 Lunch-14:15 Asakusa Sensoji Temple-15:10 Disband at Kanda

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Tsukiji, and Asakusa The guests were visitors from North America, on essentially their first visit to Japan. They came to enjoy several days of sightseeing in Tokyo and Nikko. After I gave an overview of Tokyo and Japanese history, we started at Meiji Shrine in comfortable weather that stayed below 30°C. The guests were amazed by the man-made forest that had grown over about a hundred years, and they enjoyed a quiet stroll. They also experienced the lively atmosphere of the Tsukiji Outer Market and the bustle of Asakusa, and they were surprised by how delicious the ramen we had for lunch was.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHanzomon～Yoyogi Station / Shibuya-ku, Tokyo290JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji Shrine (Harajuku Station) / Shibuya-ku, Tokyo～Tsukiji280JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukiji～Asakusa210JPY
    Section 4SubwayTawaramachi (Tokyo)～Kanda (Tokyo)180JPY
    Total960JPY

    Tour Report by Michio

    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!

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    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…

  • Sendai & Matsushima Customized Half-Day Tour

    Sendai & Matsushima Customized Half-Day Tour

    Sendai & Matsushima Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ Hotel Grandbach Sendai ~ 9:20 @ Sendai Morning Market (stroll through the shopping district in central Sendai) ~ 9:56 Board the Senseki Line ~ 10:35 @ Tagajo Station shuttle bus stop ~ 11:00 Kirin Beer Sendai Factory (80-minute tour) ~ 12:45 Board the shuttle bus ~ 13:10 Board the Senseki Line ~ 13:30 Disband at Sendai Station East Exit

    Title: What's a Private Sendai Tour with a Beer Factory Visit Like? A Licensed Guide's Report When the guests did not appear at the meeting point at the Hotel, I made a phone call, and the number listed turned out to belong to a member of the group who was not joining this tour and lives in northern Japan. This resulted in a delay of only two to three minutes, so there was no problem. The guests were visitors currently based in northern Japan, joined by another member of the group traveling from North America for this tour. This was my first time guiding overseas visitors to a beer factory, but I had asked the factory in advance, at the time of booking, to prepare pamphlets in foreign languages. Since the travel time and the tour of the facility would take about three hours, we first strolled through the Sendai morning market and the shopping streets of Sendai City before heading to the factory. The guests seemed relaxed throughout and remarked, "This is a nice facility." The factory staff were very attentive and asked several times whether the guests were enjoying themselves. Because the shuttle bus schedule was not aligned with our tour timing, we ran about 30 minutes over the planned return time to Sendai, but I was able to safely see the guests to the entrance of the station near the Hotel.

    Click here for more details: Sendai & Matsushima Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSendai～Tagajo240JPY
    Section 2TrainTagajo～Sendai240JPY
    Total480JPY

    Tour Report by Riko

    Hello! I’m Riko, your local guide. During the week, I work at a local university, but on weekends, I love to guide visitors like you. This year(2024) marks my 6th year as a guide, and I’m thrilled to continue sharing the beauty of Japan with you.
    I’m a certified Sake Navigator, so I have a wealth of knowledge about Japanese sake. Additionally, I’m well-versed in the gourmet scene of Sendai, Shiogama, and Matsushima, allowing me to tailor your tour to your culinary preferences!
    I look forward to creating a memorable tour experience for you, full of fun and lasting memories of Japan. Thanks for choosing me as your guide!

    Request Booking

    May 10, 2026
    Nate_K
    Viator review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fun Day in the bay!
    Be ready to walk briskly…

    Apr 30, 2026
    Tanakainmaui
    Tripadvisor review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Riko-san is the best guide!
    I originally booked with TripAdvisor,…

    Mar 31, 2026
    NHDBuilder
    Tripadvisor review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    GO WITH “RIKO” FROM JAPAN GUIDE AGENCY
    This is our…

    Oct 3, 2025
    P
    Peggy_M
    This was a great tour with Riko
    Viator review: Sendai / Matsushima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Riko was…

  • Kyoto: Mimaru Kyoto Shijo & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto: Mimaru Kyoto Shijo & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Mimaru Kyoto Shijo
    • 9:30-10:00 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 10:20-10:30 Photo session with Togetsukyo Bridge in the background
    • 10:45-11:00 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Path
    • 11:10-11:30 Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • 11:40-12:40 Lunch (Arashiyama Daizen)
    • 13:10-13:40 Nijo Castle
    • 14:05-14:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 14:55-15:30 Photos at Gion Shirakawa, shopping at Gion Tsujiri
    • 16:00 Mimaru Kyoto Shijo

    Title: What Does a Private Full-Day Kyoto Tour Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji, Arashiyama, and Fushimi Inari The guests were a group visiting from North America. The planned itinerary was: Hotel → Kinkaku-ji → photos with Togetsukyo Bridge in the background → the Bamboo Grove path in Arashiyama → Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple → lunch in Arashiyama → Nijo Castle → Fushimi Inari Taisha → Hotel. The weather that day was hot enough to raise concerns about heatstroke, but the guests said the climate was similar to where they come from and stayed in good spirits throughout. Everyone was familiar with words like "shogun" and "Edo period," and I felt they asked many fairly in-depth questions (for example, why the Edo shogunate chose the Netherlands as a trading partner). For lunch, they requested Kyoto-style sushi and obanzai, so I took them to a restaurant in Arashiyama, where they enjoyed sushi and à la carte dishes in a nostalgic Showa-era interior. During lunch, the conversation flowed on topics such as the differences in grammar (word order) between English and Japanese, the current state of English education in Japan, energy policy in North America, our respective work and career backgrounds, and university majors. After Fushimi Inari Taisha, the guests wished to stop by Gion before returning to the Hotel, so we extended the time slightly to see the townscape of Gion Shirakawa, after which they purchased tea and matcha sweets at a well-known tea shop in Gion. It seemed they spent a very satisfying day.

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

    Tour Report by Masaki

    My name is Masaki Kitagawa, a male in the middle of 50s living in Kyoto with my wife, son and three cats. While working for a local energy company on weekdays, I’ve been a tour guide on weekends since 2019 and enjoy interacting with people coming from different worlds. It is my great pleasure to help you make your excursion time-efficient and pleasant even during the high seasons in Kyoto. Considering your interests, preferences and priorities, I want to design and make your journey fruitful one. I’m thrilled to be contacted from you. Let’s explore Kyoto !

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    Jun 3, 2026
    Nikki G
    Wonderful experience with a great guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Masaki was our guide through…

    May 24, 2026
    Pamela_C
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Perfect day in Kyoto with the best guide!…

    May 4, 2026
    TravelersHigh77
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent English speaking guide for Kyoto
    Masaki was s wonderful and patient…

    Nov 29, 2025
    vsairamkumar
    Kyoto guided tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had great fun exploring Kyoto with Masaki San.…