Category: Uncategorized

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Atomic Bomb Museum

    Hiroshima in One Day: Atomic Bomb Museum

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hiroshima Station/Station tour (North exit & South exit)/Customer charges SUICA online
    • 10:30/11:00 Hiroshima Station/Miyajimaguchi SUICA payment trouble JR 420 yen
    • 11:20/11:30 Miyajimaguchi/Miyajima Nishikido (Pineapple Momiji)・Oyster curry bread・Kimuraya (Momiji)・Fujiiya・Arcade street stroll・Torii・Toyokuni Shrine・Five-story pagoda・Back street stroll・Ice cream (Miya Rikyu)
    • 13:25/13:35 Miyajima/Miyajimaguchi Okonomiyaki lunch at Etto
    • 14:49/15:07 Miyajimaguchi/Nishi-Hiroshima JR 330 yen
    • 15:15/15:30 Nishi-Hiroshima/Peace Park front Bus 240 yen
    • 15:35/16:30 Atomic Bomb Museum
    • 16:35/16:50 Peace Park front/Hiroshima Station Minamoa rooftop・Orange juice
    • 17:05 Tour ends

    Title: What's a Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. One of the guests had loaded a SUICA card into a phone app, but as the balance was insufficient, they topped it up from a bank account. This procedure seemed to take a little time. Also, at Hiroshima Station, when passing through the ticket gate, one of the guests went through first, and when another tried to pass through using a phone, an alarm sounded. We reported this to a staff member and settled the fare using a machine at the station. At that time, I asked what to do when exiting at Miyajimaguchi, and was told that touching once would allow both to exit. Since I was a little worried, I accompanied them when exiting at Miyajimaguchi. As expected, it did not go smoothly, and it took a little time to exit at Miyajimaguchi Station. Since the guests looked a little anxious, I explained what the station staff had said. When I mentioned that each person needs their own SUICA card, one of the guests installed the SUICA app on their own phone while we walked to the ferry terminal. After that, there were no problems, and we were able to ride both the JR and the bus without issue. At various places, one of the guests picked up litter that had fallen on the street. At first I thought it was environmentally conscious behavior, but next they picked up a mask in the Miyajima shopping street. Concerned that the guest might catch something, I explained that a mask could easily have a virus on it and asked them to be careful. The forecast for today was rain, but for some reason it was almost clear during our walk around Miyajima. It only rained for a very short while during the tour, so I was truly grateful. Today, before I knew it, we ended up enjoying a food walk of Hiroshima's local specialties. We also had ice cream, partly as a measure against heatstroke. Inside the Atomic Bomb Museum, the sign that used to say "Please be quiet inside the museum" had been removed. After reading the stories and letters of individual atomic bomb survivors inside, one of the guests was moved to tears. Both guests viewed the exhibits very attentively. At the start of the tour, when I mentioned that there is a fresh-squeezed orange vending machine on the rooftop of the newly renovated Hiroshima Station, one of the guests became very interested. When we returned to Hiroshima Station, there were 10 minutes left until the end of the tour, so I asked if they would like to go drink the orange juice, and they said they would like to try it, so we bought it on the rooftop and drank it inside the station. When the tour ending time came and I said goodbye, one of the guests suddenly offered words of thanks. I also received words of thanks from the other, and the tour ended on a warm note. That is all.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi~Nishi-Hiroshima330JPY
    Section 3BusNishi-Hiroshima~Peace Park front240JPY
    Section 4BusPeace Park front~Hiroshima Station240JPY
    Total1,230JPY

    Dear guests,
    Hello! My name is Miki. I was born and brought up in Hiroshima. I enjoy traveling around Inland Sea areas and I enjoy chatting with guests from overseas!

    In Hiroshima, you can see many beautiful rivers and old bridges. Lately, I often take photos of Hiroshima city including bridges and rivers. There are not many tall buildings here, but I know some places you can visit and see the view for free. By the atomic bomb dome, there is a building called Orizuru(paper crane) Tower. You need to pay to go up to the top floor but you can see the view of Hiroshima city and the Miyajima Island(Itsukushima).

    Many tourists from overseas as well as Japan want to visit Miyajima Island. You can see a beautiful shrine from Heian Period which is around 12th century and a huge Torii gate in front of the shrine and it is in the water. There are several ways to visit the island from Hiroshima city. If you are going to stay near JR Hiroshima Station, we will visit the island by JR train and JR ferry. If you are staying in the city area, we can go there by streetcar and ferry, or there is a high-speed boat from Peace Memorial Park pier directly to the island and vise versa.

    Hoping to see you in the near future!

    Miki
    Your tour guide in Hiroshima

    May 20, 2026
    Barbgal
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Walking tour of Hiroshima – 4 hours
    It was a…

    May 16, 2026
    E8055FUjamesg
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Great day in sunny Hiroshima
    We were with Miki Nakashima,…

    Apr 5, 2026
    jacquid804
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Miki was amazing
    Miki was fabulous very informative and knowledgeable…

    Aug 19, 2025
    J
    Jemma H
    Excellent tour of Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Miyuki was a very…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①8:30 Meet at the hotel
    • ②9:00 Sagano Bamboo Grove → Tenryu-ji Temple
    • ③10:20 Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • ④11:00 Ryoan-ji Temple
    • ⑤12:00 Kura Sushi (lunch)
    • ⑥12:40 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • ⑦13:40 Ginkaku-ji Temple
    • ⑧14:30 Disband at the supermarket FRESCO near the hotel
    • ☆3 people will disband at Ginkaku-ji Temple, after which they will explore the Philosopher's Path, Honen-in Temple, and Nanzen-ji Temple on their own before heading back.

    What's a Private Family Day Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. Although heavy rain fell during the first half of the day, we toured according to the itinerary they had requested in advance. At every sightseeing spot, they listened to my explanations with great interest and seemed very satisfied. They were a very close-knit group, and they appeared to enjoy the conveyor-belt sushi restaurant we visited for lunch, allowing us to visit all the planned sightseeing spots. Since the rain had let up and some of the guests wanted to keep walking, we parted ways at Ginkaku-ji Temple.

    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

    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…

  • Kyoto: Fushimiinari & Kiyomizudera

    Kyoto: Fushimiinari & Kiyomizudera

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Hotel Kyoto
    • 09:00 Fushimiinari
    • 10:30 Kinkakuji
    • 11:40 Lunch(Kura Sushi Kinkakuji branch)
    • 12:30 Miffy Sakura Kitchen
    • 13:00 Tenryuji garden by walking
    • 13:10 Bamboo Grove by walking
    • Arashiyama area by walking
    • 14:10 Kiyomizudera
    • 14:30 End of the tour

    What Is a Rainy-Day Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. The first destination was Fushimi Inari. The sky looked threatening as if it would rain at any moment, but since it was not raining when we arrived at Fushimi Inari, we entered without umbrellas. However, around the point where we passed the main hall, it began to rain, so I had the guests wait in the shade of the trees while I went back to the taxi to get umbrellas. After that the rain grew heavier, thunder rolled, and it turned into a downpour. Because the rain was so severe, we turned back just after passing through the Senbon Torii. The next destination was Kiyomizu-dera, but the driver kindly advised that it was also raining heavily at Kiyomizu-dera and suggested going to Kinkaku-ji instead, so we went to Kinkaku-ji, where it was only a light drizzle and we did not get soaked. I thought about taking some snapshots, but the guests did not seem particularly fond of photos, so I did not take many. One of the guests was a big fan of Miffy and greatly enjoyed the Miffy Sakura Kitchen in the Arashiyama shopping street. Finally, since the guests wanted to visit Kiyomizu-dera, I guided them to the ticket counter and we parted ways there.

    I’m Ryoichi Kazuma and my nickname is “Kazz”. I live in Kyotanabe city next to Kyoto city. I want guests to enjoy Kyoto by seeing and experiencing not only from outside but also from inside. I offer various information from daily matters to traditional cultures. Most destinations in Kyoto are located on the eastern side or the western side. As I want to guide guests to as many destinations as possible, I make an efficient itinerary and recommend a taxi use to save time. Additionally, I take pictures at various spots and finally share the link to my storage. By doing so, guests can download their favorite pictures from my storage. Please enjoy Kyoto night and day!

    Jul 14, 2026
    T6871WWricharde
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kazz gave a great one on one 8 hour custom tour…

    Jun 5, 2026
    mateoe216
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Would book again
    The tour with Kazuma-san was absolutely great. As someone…

    May 27, 2026
    Leah_D
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely recommend!
    I definitely recommend seeing some of the sights with a…

    May 26, 2026
    sheilacL3330KS
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very enthusiastic and knowledgable guide. Much appreciated
    Kazz was an excellent guide…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Kyoto Station by shuttle bus

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Kyoto Station by shuttle bus

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:05 Meet at hotel
    • 10:30 Arrive at Kyoto Station by shuttle bus
    • 13:00 Arashiyama area
    • 15:00 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 16:00 Tour ends in Gion

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like on a Rainy Day? A Licensed Guide's Report Because it was raining heavily at the meeting time, at the request of the guests we traveled to Kyoto Station by shuttle bus. In the Arashiyama area, the guests bought a music box and enjoyed the natural scenery, including the bamboo grove, an observation deck, and the Togetsukyo Bridge. I gave consideration to walking speed and pacing throughout the tour. At Fushimi Inari, the guests explored the Senbon Torii and even tried the Omokaru Ishi stone. In Gion, the guests were impressed by the traditional old buildings. The Higashiyama area was also on the itinerary, but since we were running over time, I provided directions to a recommended sushi restaurant and to the bus back to Kyoto Station, and ended the tour there.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 2TrainArashiyama~Karasuma240JPY
    Section 3SubwayShijo~Kyoto220JPY
    Section 4TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 5TrainFushimi Inari~Gion-Shijo220JPY
    Total1,070JPY

    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!

    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 in Half a Day: Imperial Palace sightseeing Otemon Gate

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Imperial Palace sightseeing Otemon Gate

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet at hotel
    • 10:40 Subway travel 
    •   Bakurayokoyama→Jimbocho→Otemachi
    • 11:10 Imperial Palace sightseeing Otemon Gate→Nijubashi Bridge→Sakuradamon Gate
    • 12:00 Subway travel
    •   Sakuradamon→Nagatacho→Omotesando→Meiji-jingumae
    • 12:20 Meiji Shrine
    • 12:30〜13:00 Short break at cafe, souvenir shopping
    • 13:00 Meiji Shrine sightseeing
    • 13:45 Takeshita Street
    • 14:15 Lunch at hamburger restaurant
    • 14:30 Disband

    Title: What Is a Private Family Group Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Because there was little contact from the guests before the tour, the tour day began without fully complete preparations. The guests were a group visiting from North America. It was their first visit to Japan, and since they had arrived the previous evening, they seemed a little tired, but there were many things they wanted to see, places they wanted to go, and items they wanted to buy, along with many questions. The guests were eager to try Japanese food, and they enjoyed the rice crackers, gummies, and salt-replenishment snacks I had brought for the group. During lunch, I also explained how to get to places they wanted to visit after the tour. Both the guests and I were able to spend an enjoyable time together.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayBakurayokoyama~Meiji-jingumae900JPY
    Total900JPY

    Hello!! My name is Noriko Sakurai. I’m 51 years old. I started working as a travel guide in 2018. I usually guide around Tokyo area.

    My hobbies are reading books, traveling cooking & baking , and eating! I like to read books about Japanese history, and visit historical places. I also enjoy visiting new places, trying new dishes, then after coming back home, reproducing the dishes by myself.
    I love breads , so I enjoy visiting new bakeries.

    I really want foreign visitors to enjoy staying in Japan comfortably. I would like to help you to have wonderful times and make fantastic memories in Japan!!

    Apr 9, 2025
    Karen_N
    The best guide in Tokyo!
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Noriko, was fabulous. She made…

    Oct 27, 2024
    tanjuha
    Great 4 hr Tokyo tour with Noriko Sakurai
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:09 Meet (@Kyoto Station Shinkansen Platform)
    • 10:09-11:00 Transfer (City Bus; Kyoto Station→Gojozaka)
    • 11:00-12:10 Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple (including Yasaka Pagoda, Koshin-do)
    • 12:10-12:30  Visit Yasaka Shrine
    • 12:30-12:50 Transfer (City Bus: Yasaka Shrine Front→Higashiyama Shichijo)
    • 12:50-13:30 Lunch (Sato)
    • 13:40-14:30 Visit Sanjusangen-do Temple
    • 14:30-14:50 Transfer (Keihan Train; Keihan Shichijo→Fushimi Inari Taisha)
    • 14:50-15:40 Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 15:40-16:00 Transfer (Keihan Train; Fushimi Inari Taisha→Gion-Shijo)
    • 16:00 Say goodbye at Gion-Shijo Station

    タイトル: Can You Do a Private Day Trip from Tokyo to Kyoto? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, and this was their first time in Japan. They arranged a one-day trip to Kyoto as part of their travels while based in Tokyo. Based on the weather forecast, I had prepared for very rough conditions, but the rain was not as heavy as expected. Although it was hot and humid, we were able to proceed with the tour without getting too wet. I took them to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Sanjusangendo, and Fushimi Inari Shrine. Unfortunately, one of the guests slipped on the stairs at Kiyomizu-dera and got their clothes wet, which seemed to be quite a shock. I had advised them to be careful because it was slippery due to the rain, but the fall still happened. Fortunately, there did not appear to be any injury, and the tour continued to the end. Perhaps I should have given a stronger warning. I felt sorry that this happened during such a special trip. The guests said that the 1,001 statues of the thousand-armed Kannon at Sanjusangendo were their favorite. After the tour, they had a restaurant reservation near Kodai-ji Temple, so I took them to the nearby Gion-Shijo area, where we ended the tour and said our goodbyes.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKyoto Station~Gojozaka230JPY
    Section 2BusYasaka Shrine Front~Higashiyama Shichijo230JPY
    Section 3TrainKeihan Shichijo~Fushimi Inari170JPY
    Section 4TrainFushimi Inari~Gion-Shijo220JPY
    Total850JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto: Shimogamo Shrine & Iwatayama Monkey Park Driver finishes

    Kyoto: Shimogamo Shrine & Iwatayama Monkey Park Driver finishes

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet @Vischio Kyoto by Granvia
    • 9:00 @Shimogamo Shrine
    • 10:15 @Nijo Castle
    • 11:30 @Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
    • 12:20 @Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • 13:00 @Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • 13:45 Light meal at the Arashiyama food court
    • 14:00 @Iwatayama Monkey Park Driver finishes
    • 15:00 Dismissal @Arashiyu

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour with a Licensed Guide Like? A Guide's Report on Nijo Castle and Arashiyama Monkey Park The guests had already visited Fushimi Inari Taisha, Sanjusangendo, Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji, and the Sagano Bamboo Grove on a group bus tour the previous day. They had a solid basic knowledge of Kyoto and tended to prefer relatively minor or quieter spots. Due to heavy rainfall in the morning, I proposed Nijo Castle as an indoor sightseeing destination. The guests seemed interested in history and carefully appreciated the exhibits. As the weather improved in the afternoon, we were also able to visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park as planned, and the guests appeared to thoroughly enjoy the view from the observation deck and the interaction with the wild monkeys. Since the guests had already reserved a foot bath and foot massage at Arashiyu, we parted ways there.

    I’m Yuri Takeda, a goverment lisenced English tour guide. I’ve been working as a tour guide for about two years. I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been in Nara for about 40 years. I can guide you Kyoto, Osaka and Nara. I like visiting historical sites, eating and cooking. I also like meeting people from different backgrounds. In Japanese, we have a wonderful phrase “Ichigo Ichie”. It means we have to treasure every encounter is a once in a lifetime opportunity. This word came from the spirit of tea ceremony. I’d like to help you discover, enjoy, experience and feel Japanese culture with the heart of Japanese hospitarity, “omotenashi”.

    Jun 6, 2026
    Jason_B
    Viator review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent, well rounded…
    Excellent, well rounded itinerary with pertinent facts and answers…

    Apr 13, 2026
    Dunka591
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Highly recommend.
    Yuri is an incredible woman! What an amazing experience, we…

    Jul 28, 2025
    C
    Cedric_S
    Incredible Kyoto Adventure with Yuri
    Viator review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide Yuri was the heartbeat…

    Jun 25, 2025
    983whitneym
    Beautiful Kyoto Guided Tour With Yuri
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    We loved…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Senso-ji Temple

    Tokyo in One Day: Senso-ji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:15 Tsukiji Hongan-ji Temple, Outer Market, Fish Market, Namiyoke Shrine
    • 10:40 Hamarikyu Gardens, Nakajima Teahouse
    • 12:20 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
    • 12:40 Lunch @ Ganso Sushi
    • 13:20 Senso-ji Temple
    • 14:10 Akihabara, Don Quijote, Gamers, Bic Camera, Radio Kaikan, Yodobashi Camera
    • 15:10 Dismissal @ Akihabara Station

    Title: What Is a Private Family Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Hamarikyu, Asakusa, and Akihabara The guests were a group from North America whom I guided through Tokyo. Once again, the heat and humidity were a concern today, but we managed to get through the day safely with proper hydration, meals, and rest breaks. At Tsukiji, the guests enjoyed ice cream and satsuma-age (fried fish cake), and were delighted to see the fish market area, which they had not been able to find on their own. At Hamarikyu, at the guests' request, we first rested and had ice cream at the arbor, walked in the shade as much as possible, and enjoyed matcha and sweets at the Nakajima teahouse. Since the guests felt they could walk a bit more, we went around the duck hunting grounds and saw the 300-year-old pine tree. As the guests wished to buy a handheld fan, we stopped by a variety store in Shiodome along the way and purchased one together with batteries. In Asakusa, I asked what they would like for lunch, and they chose conveyor-belt sushi, where some of the guests had tuna rolls while others mainly enjoyed cucumber rolls, inari sushi, and egg. In Akihabara, one of the guests was a self-described computer and game enthusiast, so after visiting a few game shops, we went to the Radio Kaikan building so the guests could look at figures and other items. We searched for a cable for one of the guests' smartwatch; at one electronics store they were told the Shinjuku and Shibuya branches might have it, and at another electronics store they were told the manufacturer now sells it online only, which I relayed to the guests. I was impressed that one of the guests had studied Japanese for two years in preparation for this trip and had learned conversational phrases useful for traveling. Although it was before the scheduled end time, the guests said they were tired and wished to head back to the hotel, so we ended the tour at JR Akihabara Station with kind words of thanks.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShimbashi~Asakusa220JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Suehirocho180JPY
    Total400JPY

    Hello!! I’m Takako. Thank you for seeing my page. I’ve been showing guests around Tokyo, Yokohama and Kamakura for over six years. There are various things from historic sites, shrines and temples to cultural spots, good restaurants and anime shops in Japan.
    I love watching sumo wrestling, Japanese traditional sport.
    My favorite place is Tsukiji food market. It’s really exciting and you can enjoy a variety of delicious foods.
    I also like visiting Japanese gardens such as Hama-rikyu Gardens and Rikugien Gardens.
    Please let me know what interests you.
    I would be happy to make a suitable tour for you and help you stay in Japan comfortably.
    Looking forward to meeting you!!

    Jul 21, 2026
    Z222TCshannonr
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    6 hour guided tour of Tokyo
    Our wonderful guide,…

    Jul 9, 2026
    cronima2
    Perfectly guided day
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing day with…

    Jul 3, 2026
    johnoD792VT
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely Guide!
    Takako was an amazing guide! She gave strong insights on…

    Jul 3, 2026
    71nidhim
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Takako was extremely knowledgeable and showed us all the main…

  • Osaka: Kofukuji Temple & Kasuga Taisha Shrine

    Osaka: Kofukuji Temple & Kasuga Taisha Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Hotel
    • 09:50 to 10:30 Kofukuji Temple
    • 10:30 to 11:15 Nara Park
    • 11:15 to 12:15 Todaiji Temple
    • 12:15 to 13:00 Nara Park
    • 13:15 to 14:00 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 14:20 to 15:00 Lunch at Higashimuki Shopping Street (Ramen))
    • 16:10 Dismissal JR Osaka Station

    What Is a Private Nara Park Deer and Temple Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. The guests' main goal was not sightseeing at the shrines and temples of the ancient capital of Nara, but rather spending time with the deer. Over the morning and afternoon combined, they spent about 10,000 yen on deer crackers. We also visited the three popular spots in Nara Park mentioned above, but they devoted much of their time to interacting with the deer. Since one of the guests was unable to climb stairs, we skipped Nigatsudo. We spent that time with the deer instead. For this group, that seemed to be much more enjoyable.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainJR Osaka Station~Tsuruhashi Station200JPY
    Section 2TrainKintetsu Tsuruhashi Station~Nara Station590JPY
    Section 3BusNara Kotsu Bus Kenchomae, Kofukuji Temple~Daibutsuden-mae, Kasuga Taisha Shrine250JPY
    Section 4BusNara Kotsu Bus Kasuga Taisha Honden~Kintetsu Nara Station250JPY
    Section 5TrainKintetsu Nara Station~Tsuruhashi Station590JPY
    Section 6TrainJR Tsuruhashi Station~Osaka Station200JPY
    Total2,080JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Kyoto Sanjo
    • 9:20 Kiyomizu-dera Temple  Arrival
    • 10:20 Kiyomizu-dera Temple  Departure
    • 10;40 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine Arrival
    • 11:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine Departure
    • 12:10 Tenryu-ji Temple・Sagano Bamboo Grove Arrival
    • 12:40 Tenryu-ji Temple・Sagano Bamboo Grove Departure
    •    Lunch
    • 13:50 Kinkaku-ji Temple   Arrival
    • 14:40 Kinkaku-ji Temple   Departure
    • 15:00 Hotel Kyoto Sanjo

    Title: What Does a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kiyomizu-dera, Fushimi Inari, Arashiyama, and Kinkaku-ji The private one-day tour of Kyoto began at Kiyomizu-dera Temple. It started raining heavily along the way. However, the guests were amazed to hear that the main hall was donated by Tokugawa Iemitsu in 1633, and that 234 people once jumped from the famous Kiyomizu stage, of whom about 200 survived. The second stop was Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. I explained how to purify one's hands and mouth at the water pavilion before praying. I then guided the group to the front of the main hall and explained the proper etiquette: two bows, two claps, stating one's wish, and a final bow. After passing through the Senbon Torii (thousands of vermilion gates), we reached the "Okunoin." To the far right there is a stone called the "Omokaru-ishi." First, you make a wish in front of the lantern. Then you lift the round stone placed on top of the lantern. The idea is that if the stone feels lighter than you expected, your wish will come true, and the guests found this fascinating and tried it eagerly. The rain began to ease a little. The third stop was Tenryu-ji Temple, the Sagano Bamboo Grove, and Arashiyama Park. The rain stopped and it turned into an enjoyable hike. The final stop was Kinkaku-ji Temple. The guests were especially moved by the golden shimmer of the Golden Pavilion. They also purchased many items at the souvenir shops. It was a wonderful group who got along very well.

    I have been an English teacher since 1979. In 2024, I obtained the national qualification of Certified Guide Interpreter.
    Currently, after retiring, I teach English as a part-time lecturer at a Hyogo Prefectural High School.
    My hobbies are tennis, table tennis, traveling, studying English, and Japanese history.
    I play tennis and table tennis twice a week. I love traveling because I can see beautiful scenery and learn about Japanese history.
    I chose Kyoto and Nara prefectures as my guiding locations. Both were once the capitals of Japan.
    Kyoto was the residence of emperors from 794 to 1868 and was a stage for Japanese history.
    It has beautiful scenery, Japanese history, magnificent buildings and gardens, and delicious food.
    I would like to share the charms of Japan with foreign tourists as much as possible.
    I live in Amagasaki City, which is adjacent to Osaka. Kyoto is a little far from my home,
    but I would like to leave home early in the morning and enjoy traveling with my guests.
    Thank you for your consideration.

    Mar 30, 2026
    MrJames_L
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Great tour with Kaji
    We had an excellent…

    Jul 3, 2025
    Radit T
    Worthwhile private tour on our first full day in Kyoto!
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle…

    Jun 7, 2025
    Lisa_H
    Great tour guide and driver
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Overall a great…