Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet
    • 11:50 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 13:30 Nishiki Market, lunch, coffee break
    • 15:30 Nijo Castle
    • 17:00 End

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like in the Rain? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting Japan for the first time. The guests left the itinerary up to me. We had lunch around Nishiki Market, which meant travel took some time. Although it rained during the tour, I believe the guests enjoyed themselves without being bothered by the weather. At Nijo Castle, I showed them the carp feeding, the gardens, and the site of the former castle keep. Since they planned to visit Arashiyama the next day, I explained how to get there and gave some recommendations. I would have liked to guide them around Gion as well if there had been time. We parted ways at the exit of the station nearest to the guests.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShijo (Kyoto Municipal)～Kitaoji260JPY
    Section 2BusKitaoji Bus Terminal (Subway Kitaoji Station)／Kyoto Municipal Bus～Kinkaku-ji-michi／Kyoto Municipal Bus230JPY
    Section 3BusKinkaku-ji-michi／Kyoto Municipal Bus～Kawaramachi Sanjo／Kyoto Municipal Bus230JPY
    Section 4SubwayShijo (Kyoto Municipal)～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 5SubwayNijojo-mae～Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)220JPY
    Total1,160JPY

    Tour Report by Mizu

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

    Request Booking

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

    Jul 21, 2026
    MarcL3556
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful and Memorable Tour of Osaka with Mizu…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Ranvt
    Local tour kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    I had a great experience on this local…

    Jun 11, 2026
    MamaL843
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing Kyoto with Mizu
    Mizu-San gave us an AMAZING tour of Kyoto.…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①10:30〜11:30 Meet at the cruise terminal, travel to Asakusa via Yurikamome and subway
    • ②11:30〜12:30 Asakusa・Sensoji Temple
    • ③12:45〜14:00 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • ④14:30 Guide to Omotesando vintage shop【Q O O Tokyo】and disband

    What Can You See on a 4-Hour Private Tokyo Cruise-Port Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests visited Japan for the first time, arriving by cruise ship from Europe. During our correspondence beforehand, they left the choice of sightseeing spots to me, with one request: to be guided to a vintage brand-bag shop at the end of the tour. From the Tokyo International Cruise Terminal, we traveled by the Yurikamome line and subway to visit Asakusa. After that, we moved by taxi to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. The Japanese irises were in beautiful full bloom, which delighted the guests greatly. We then went to a vintage shop in Omotesando before parting ways. They seemed very satisfied with this fulfilling 4-hour course.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherTokyo International Cruise Terminal～Shimbashi390JPY
    Section 2OtherShimbashi～Asakusa220JPY
    Section 3OtherNijubashimae～Omotesando180JPY
    Total790JPY

    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: コートヤード・バイ・マリオット東京ステーション（お迎え） & コートヤード・バイ・マリオット東京ステーション（お送り）

    Tokyo: コートヤード・バイ・マリオット東京ステーション（お迎え） & コートヤード・バイ・マリオット東京ステーション（お送り）

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 コートヤード・バイ・マリオット東京ステーション（お迎え）
    • 10:15 浅草文化観光センター
    • 11:50 インテルフォーラムビル
    • 12:30 皇居（朝食をたっぷり食べたので、昼食はなし）
    • 14:20 明治神宮
    • 15:43 コートヤード・バイ・マリオット東京ステーション（お送り）

    What Is a Private Walking Tour with a Licensed Guide in Japan Like? A Guide's Report 1. The guests mentioned that where they live there are two seasons, summer and a little winter, along with hurricanes. I explained that in Japan we have summer, winter, and a little spring, too. 2. The guests said that where they live, cormorants and a related bird called the anhinga dive into the water to catch fish. 3. We talked about scooters. The guests noted that it used to be mandatory to wear a helmet, but that rule was removed where they live, and that it differs from region to region. They also mentioned that people don't always observe traffic signals there. 4. One of the guests said they are retired and don't fight over the kitchen, but make their own lunch. 5. The guests shared that they have been married for 61 years, having married when they graduated from college. They also spoke about their past work lives. 6. One of the guests mentioned having retired some years ago and being fortunate to have good retirement arrangements and a pension. 7. The guests said they have five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, with another one coming soon. 8. The guests mentioned using a ramp so they don't have to worry about steps, and asked whether people avoid stepping on the threshold. 9. The guests said they would be leaving later in the month after an international cruise. 10. The guests showed me a pedometer on the phone, noting they had made 8,190 steps that day, and that they usually aim for 10,000 but often manage between 5,000 and 6,000. 11. The guests kindly said I had made it a beautiful day, and thanked me.

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

    Tour Report by Hideaki

    Hello, welcome to Japan you all.

    I’m a resident of Ebina, Kanagawa, and am a national government licensed guide and interpreter.
    I enjoy showing travelers both the new and old of central Honshu, primarily Tokyo and Kanagawa, ranging from Meiji Shrine, Edo Castle, Tsukiji Outer Market, Ueno, Asakusa, Ginza, Ginza Sky Farmstead, Shibuya Zebra Crossings, Yokohama, Kamakura, to Hakone, not to mention Mt. Fuji, and sharing views with my guests on Japanese homes and their surroundings, Japan’s labor productivity and labor market, among others.

    I also enjoy introducing travelers to Japanese culture through home visits with Japanese families, touring Zen temples, and explaining the intricacies of Japanese culture.

    I am happy to arrange personalized tours to other places of your interest.
    I am making the most of my long experience as a foreign language education service, escorting VIPs at the Sony showroom in Ginza, Tokyo.
    I also offer services to help families and individuals relocating to Japan with immigration VISA applications.

    My hobbies are movies, strolling along the river in my neighborhood and am a novice at la lingua Italiano.
    Let’s enjoy touring together, shall we?

    Request Booking

    Jul 16, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Private guide – a very good experience
    We spent a half…

    Jun 21, 2026
    CJW324
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Guided Tour & Tablet Guided Origami Experience
    Unforgettable day in Tokyo with Hideaki — incredible with…

    May 20, 2026
    olgalA154QQ
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience with an excellent guide
    Great experience! Our guide WADA Hideaki…

    Apr 19, 2026
    Sightseer57474900023
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hideaki’s perfect first day in Tokyo!
    Hideaki was an incredible guide 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

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 8:00 Meet up @ ASA Takasago, 5-39-1 Takasago, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo
    • 2) 8:30 Asakusa <Senso-ji Temple・Nakamise Shopping Street>
    • 3) 9:50 East Gardens <Hirakawa Gate → Ninomaru Garden → Ote Gate>
    • 4) 11:00 Tsukiji Market
    • 5) 13:00 Shibuya <Crossing・Starbucks Coffee SHIBUYA TSUTAYA 2F Store>
    • 6) 13:40 Meiji Shrine
    • 7) 14:10 Disband @ CHRISTIE Harajuku Main Store (1-16-1 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, Shibuya, and Meiji Shrine The guests were a group visiting from North America. They were said to be staying at a private lodging near Keisei-Takasago Station, but since the meeting point was listed as being in front of a newspaper delivery office, I asked [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) for assistance and received confirmation that the meeting-point address was correct. However, the main guest was not using any messaging app, so I could not reach them individually. Two days before the tour I received a personal email address and sent a greeting along with some notes and a request for any preferences, but received no reply. On the morning of the tour I also emailed about the guide's attire, what to bring, and my plan to arrive ten minutes before the meeting time, but again received no reply, so I felt somewhat uneasy as the meeting time approached in front of the newspaper delivery office. At the meeting, I asked whether they had received my emails and messages, and the main guest explained that the WiFi had been unreliable and they had not been able to receive email properly. During the tour the WiFi seemed to improve, as they were able to receive an email with photos I had taken and recommended information attached, which was reassuring. I presented the itinerary I had prepared, and with the guests' agreement we began the tour. Three of the guests had already purchased a "Welcome SUICA," and two had downloaded the SUICA app in advance. Since we started at 8:00, Nakamise-dori was still before opening, with few people around and a refreshing atmosphere. As I was about to guide them to the main hall of Sensoji and we were walking beside the incense burner, a local elderly person who appeared to have just finished praying bumped into me while shouting something. It was unexpected and a little startling, but since all sorts of people are out and about, I decided it required no particular response and let it pass (I explained this to the guests as well, and they understood), and we continued to the main hall. In hindsight, my way of guiding may have been in the elderly person's way. Since many local worshippers likely visit Sensoji early in the morning, I resolved to be more careful going forward. At the East Gardens we admired the irises and toured briefly. Having learned on the day of the tour that cash would be needed, the guests withdrew cash from an ATM inside a station on the way to Tsukiji. At Tsukiji they enjoyed wagyu skewers, yakitori, sushi (lunch at a sushi restaurant), and ice cream. Since one or two of them occasionally went off on their own, I took care not to lose sight of anyone in the crowds (and asked the guests to be mindful of each other as well) as we headed to Shibuya. We crossed the Shibuya scramble crossing and I guided them to the second floor of a Starbucks. When I looked away for a moment, I lost sight of everyone for a few minutes (I had assumed they would be by the window, but before I knew it they were gone). I sent an email asking where they were and searched around outside the building and on the second floor of the Starbucks, and it turned out that four of them were taking a restroom break or ordering at the cafe, while one was at an anime pop-up store on the fifth floor of the same building. It gave me quite a scare, but I then guided them to our final stop, Meiji Shrine. Afterward, they said they were tired because it was their first trip abroad, the flight had been long, and they had arrived at their lodging late the previous night, so I guided them to a cafe in Harajuku, and we parted ways safely and with smiles.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKeisei-Takasago～Asakusa380JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Takebashi290JPY
    Section 3SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)～Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji Market～Shibuya290JPY
    Section 5TrainShibuya～Harajuku160JPY
    Total1,300JPY

    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…

  • Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour

    Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour

    Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • Port 9:00 – Shimizu Station ~ Fujinomiya Station ~ Mount Fuji World Heritage Center ~ Fujisan Hongu Sengen Shrine 12:30 – Fujinomiya Station ~ Shimizu Station ~ Kashi no Ichi Market ~ Shimizu Station ~ Dream Plaza ~ Port 15:00

    What Is a Private Day Tour from Shimizu Port to Mount Fuji Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I met the guests at the port and we decided to visit the Mount Fuji World Heritage Centre. We took our time with the touch-panel exhibits and the video presentation, and then visited Sengen Shrine. The guests listened attentively to explanations about the omikuji fortune slips, ema votive plaques, and Wakutama Pond, and took many photos. Afterwards, at a souvenir shop, we enjoyed Fujinomiya yakisoba and matcha ice cream before returning to Fujinomiya Station. On the way there we took a limited express train, but on the return there happened to be a local train, so we took a leisurely ride, changed at Fuji Station, and returned to Shimizu Station. We visited the Kashi-no-Ichi market, where the guests were impressed by the cleanliness of Japanese markets compared with those in other countries. After that we headed from the station to Dream Plaza, where the guests bought souvenirs and enjoyed some tonkatsu, before returning to the port where we said our goodbyes.

    Click here for more details: Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherShimizu Station～Fujinomiya Station1,350JPY
    Section 2TrainFujinomiya Station / Fujinomiya City, Shizuoka Prefecture～Shimizu (Shizuoka Prefecture)590JPY
    Total1,940JPY

    Tour Report by Acchan

    I have been teaching high school students for 40 years as an English teacher and guiding for 10years including a volunteer guide .Now I am a national government licensed guide. I have been dreaming to introduce Japanese culture including tasty Japanese food and history , our society and also some problems in it. It is a great moment of joy and excitement to be with you from all over the world. I love traveling around Japan and abroad myself. I visited East Germany ,too that does not exist any more. I am looking forward to guiding you in and around Shizuoka!

    Request Booking

    Jul 26, 2026
    Edward_H
    Viator review: Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour, Licensed Guide
    The only way to tour if…
    The only way to…

    Jun 30, 2026
    Louisa_B
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    My Fuji Experience and temple visit
    Great trip out…

    Apr 14, 2026
    Bret_F
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    Great Shizuoka Area Experience
    We enjoyed a memorable day…

    Mar 27, 2026
    James_M
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    Loved are guide.
    Great tour guide. We loved her…

  • Nagasaki Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagasaki Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagasaki Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Hotel → 10:00 Peace Park → 10:40 Hypocenter Park → 11:00 Atomic Bomb Museum → 12:30 Dejima → 13:30 Disband after touring Dejima

    What Is a Private Nagasaki History Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe and appeared to be enjoying the tour. The guests were aware of the historical relationship between the Netherlands and Nagasaki, had researched it thoroughly in advance, and asked quite detailed questions. The guests also showed interest in the situation of the atomic bombing damage and the circumstances of the survivors. At Dejima, there were questions about Siebold and his daughter (Japan's first female doctor). Since the guests did not know that there is a Siebold Memorial Museum in Nagasaki, I explained how to get there. They mentioned that they would visit it on their own after the tour ended. As they wished to visit Huis Ten Bosch the following day, I informed them that there is a highway bus service to Huis Ten Bosch and showed them the boarding location.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinchi Chinatown～Peace Park150JPY
    Section 2TrainPeace Park～Dejima150JPY
    Total300JPY

    Tour Report by Hiro

    Hello, I’m Hiroshi Kuribayashi, but you can just call me Hiro. I’m thrilled to be your guide around my hometown, Sasebo City, and the neighboring areas, such as Nagasaki, Omura, Hirado, Arita, Imari, and more. I love showing guests around these beautiful places, including their nature, history, food, and more.

    Before I ventured into guiding, I worked as a businessman, handling international business affairs with various countries such as the U.S.A., U.K., Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, India, Egypt, and more. Drawing from my business background, I offer interpretation services for business meetings and translation services for engineering and contractual documents. If there’s something specific you’d like assistance with, feel free to let me know.

    Request Booking

    Jun 15, 2026
    GGuy_M
    Viator review: Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Excellent guide with good knowledge
    Excellent guide with good knowledge…

    Mar 4, 2026
    S943KUrobertb
    The best of Nagasaki
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Our tour guide Hiro, was just…

    Oct 16, 2025
    Ian_M
    Walking with Hiro
    Viator review: Nagasaki Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our Guide, Hiro, was very knowledgeable and engaging. We…

    Sep 3, 2025
    BdaVisitor
    Nagasaki Full Day Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    We had a lovely day exploring…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Imperial Palace East Gardens

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Imperial Palace East Gardens

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at TOKYU STAY Shinjuku Eastside
    • 10:40 Meiji Shrine
    • 12:45 Asakusa (Skytree photo)
    • 14:10 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 14:15 Disband at Imperial Palace East Gardens rest area

    What Is a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Asakusa, and the East Gardens Because the itinerary had not been firmly decided in advance, we spent some time talking at the Hotel first, and the tour ended not at the Hotel but at the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. The weather was fine, and the guests had Mobile Suica, so the tour proceeded smoothly. At Meiji Shrine, we were able to see two wedding processions. The guests also took their time carefully choosing omamori charms. As this was a tour for a group, it naturally took a fair amount of time. In Asakusa, they enjoyed shopping along Nakamise Street, but from around this point time became tight, so we hurried on toward the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. As we had run past the scheduled time, I concluded the tour at the Honmaru rest area. I received a tip.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHigashi-Shinjuku～Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 2TrainMeiji-jingumae～Asakusa260JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa～Takebashi210JPY
    Total650JPY

    Tour Report by Koba

    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.

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • Kyoto Station 1000→1140 Nijo Castle 1220→1250 Kinkaku-ji Temple 1340→1440 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine 1540→1600 Kyoto Station

    What Is a Private Day Trip from Tokyo to Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. On this day they took a private day trip from Tokyo to Kyoto, selecting three destinations that matched their individual interests, and they greatly enjoyed exploring the facilities that appealed most to each of them. To accommodate everyone in the group, we borrowed a wheelchair where available for getting around, and took care to walk slowly and rest as needed. Even so, the guests were full of energy and eager to experience Kyoto by train and bus, which made it a wonderful experience.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 2BusNijojo-mae / Kyoto City Bus～Kinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3BusKinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus～Enmachi230JPY
    Section 4TrainEnmachi～Inari200JPY
    Section 5TrainInari～Kyoto150JPY
    Total1,070JPY

    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 in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Nishiki Market

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Nishiki Market

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at Genji Kyoto
    • 9:00-10:00　Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 10:45-11:30　Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 12:00-12:30　Nishiki Market
    • 12:30　Disband at Nishiki Market

    What's a 4-Hour Private Kyoto Tour by Taxi Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests came from North America. From the time of assignment, their responses to inquiries were quick, and they even provided the itinerary above in advance. When I explained that the planned route could not possibly be completed within four hours using public transportation, they suggested using a taxi. One of the guests wore a T-shirt featuring the anime Naruto and kept holding a Naruto figure that had been purchased in Japan the whole time. Apparently it had cost 7,700 yen. When I expressed surprise, they explained that the hands, feet, and face could be swapped out. After getting out of the taxi near Fushimi Inari Taisha, there was a Pokémon card vending machine at the entrance of a drugstore along the way. One of the guests asked to buy Pokémon cards. They seemed to have visited Tokyo before coming to Kyoto, but this appeared to be their first time at a Shinto shrine. So I explained the proper way to worship at a shrine, and they paid their respects at the main hall as well. They found the torii-shaped ema plaques and said they wanted to write one themselves, so they wrote a wish and took it home. We also passed through the Senbon Torii, and whenever a favorite scene was found, the guests would stand together and ask me to take a photo. After passing through the outbound path of the Senbon Torii, I asked what they would like to do, and they said they wanted to walk a bit further up, so we continued walking. Around this point one of the guests seemed to get a little bored, grumbling somewhat while going back several times to take photos at the torii even when told, "Just one more photo here and then we're done." Next we moved to Kinkaku-ji. Here too, they took photos of the golden pavilion and the Rikushu Pine, though they mentioned it was a shame there were so many people. Around the carp near the Ryumon waterfall, when I connected the carp to the Pokémon character Magikarp, it seemed to spark their interest. I also had them sit on the Kijin-toh stone to take a photo. Next we moved to our following destination, Nishiki Market. The taxi driver was a cheerful person who told jokes in broken English, so there was constant laughter in the car as well. And then to Nishiki Market. Since I could not accompany them all the way to the end due to time constraints, I guided them through the key spots, and at the end one of the guests enjoyed a chocolate-covered strawberry, getting chocolate around the mouth so it looked like a mustache, which prompted laughter and photos. As the time came, we said our goodbyes. The photo was taken in front of the fox statue by the Nenoagari Pine at Fushimi Inari Taisha.

    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 in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Kappabashi

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Kappabashi

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet at the hotel
    • 11:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 1250 Harajuku
    • 13:40 Asakusa
    • 14:10 Kappabashi
    • 14:30 Tour ends at Kappabashi

    What Does a First-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, Asakusa, and Kappabashi The guests were visiting from Europe. They said this trip to Japan was a long-held dream they had finally been able to realize after ten years. They had arrived the previous night after a journey of 26 hours, and today was their first day in Tokyo. As requested in advance, we visited Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, Asakusa, and Kappabashi. Since they wanted to use the day as a reference for sightseeing in Tokyo on the following days, I made an effort to explain how to use the trains and subway, as well as the geographical relationships between each destination, as we went along. Both were extremely eager to learn, asking a variety of questions throughout the tour—not only about Japanese culture and customs, but even about how to type Japanese on a smartphone. At Meiji Shrine, I explained how Shinto has influenced Japanese culture, and they were also able to see a wedding ceremony taking place in the precincts, which delighted them greatly. In Harajuku, they said they would like to return later and spend more time there, so I only introduced the main spots. At our final stop, Kappabashi, they wanted to take their time shopping, so we concluded the tour there.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainAzabu-juban～Yoyogi220JPY
    Section 2TrainOmotesando～Asakusa260JPY
    Total480JPY

    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.

    Request Booking

    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…