Category: Uncategorized

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: castle keep & Kokoen Garden

    Hyogo in Half a Day: castle keep & Kokoen Garden

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:50　Meet at the hotel where you are staying. Since you had prepared early, we departed early.
    • 10:20　Arrived at the castle passing through the old shopping district.
    • 10:30~12:20　Tour of the castle keep
    • 12:30~13:10　Nishinomaru Hyakken Corridor
    • 13:20～13:50　Kokoen Garden
    • 14:15　Arrived at the hotel (because luggage was left there) and disbanded
    • After this, the guests will head to Hiroshima by Shinkansen

    What Is a Private Himeji Castle Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was traveling alone and had visited many countries, and was very fond of Japan. The guest showed particular interest in the architecture of the castle. During a special public opening, there was a corner explaining the castle keep with a screen presentation, so I took the guest there. The guest watched the video explaining the structure with great enthusiasm, and I was glad to have shown it. During the visit, the guest said "so interesting!!" many times, so I believe the beauty and appeal of castle architecture came across well. Since I had asked about the reserved time for the bullet train, we toured Koko-en Garden and returned to the Hotel with plenty of time to spare.

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

    Tour Report by Chiyuki

    Hello, I am a tour guide, Chiyuki. If I write my name in Japanese, it means one thousand happiness. Please call me Chiyuki. I am looking forward to seeing you.
    I have been guiding many visitors from all parts of the world since I became a tour guide.
    I hope Japan can attract many people with beautiful scenery, culture, historical buildings, food and so on. What are you interested in?
    And I couldn’t be happier if I can help you to create memories of a wonderful trip.
    I will make my best effort to satisfy my guests. See you soon. Thank you very much. Chiyuki

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    Jul 9, 2026
    727tessv
    We had the best time in Kobe
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our guide Chiyuki was…

    Jun 21, 2026
    M9524SIphilippel
    Tripadvisor review: Exploring Nada Sake Breweries Kobe Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sake tour in Kobe
    Chiyuki is one of the…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Pinoy V
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very interesting and informative.
    Chiyuki kept us informed on our itinerary…

    Jun 11, 2026
    Sharon G
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Full-Day Private Tour with Nationally-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day!!
    After getting off to a rocky start our…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Kobe Station & Sannomiya Station

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Kobe Station & Sannomiya Station

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Kobe Station
    • 12:15 Harborland
    • Lunch
    • 14:30 Hakutsuru Sake Museum
    • 17:00 Sannomiya Station

    Title: What's a Private Kobe Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Harborland and a Sake Museum There was a schedule change that shifted our timing by one hour, and as a member of the group had recovered, the tour proceeded smoothly. However, since it was extremely hot outside, we visited Harborland and had lunch together. While chatting about various topics and how to eat soba, more than an hour passed, and because of the intense heat we skipped Nankinmachi. We went directly to the Hakutsuru Sake Museum, where the guests enjoyed a tasting and did some shopping. Afterward, we returned to Sannomiya and did some shopping together. Since the guests were going to meet a friend after the tour, I took them to that location and ended the tour there. We went over by one hour, but it was a pleasure to spend the time together.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHanshin Kobe Station～Sumiyoshi Station530JPY
    Total530JPY

    Tour Report by Harumi

    Hello, my name is Harumi, and I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter in Japan. I have been actively involved in volunteer activities for many years, sharing my passion for Japanese culture and history. As a kimono dressing instructor, I can provide hands-on kimono experiences and guide tours. Additionally, I have extensive knowledge of sumo wrestling, making my tours ideal for those interested in this fascinating sport. I am also well-versed in Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings (Jūdenken) and can introduce historical townscapes dating back to the Edo period. If you are interested, I would be happy to show you around the sake brewing process in the Nada region.

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    Jul 11, 2026
    Rahul_P
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Private Tour
    Highly recommended if looking for a comfortable tour…

    Jul 7, 2026
    782MarkS782
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Harumi and Kyoto
    This was amazing – truly memory making. Harumi is…

    Jun 25, 2026
    JenCBear
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great visit with a great guide Harumi
    Harumi was a fantastic guide…

    Jun 21, 2026
    Andrew_M
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Amazing guided experience
    Harumi is an amazing guide.…

  • 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, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel
    • 9:40 Meiji Shrine, Gyoen Garden
    • 11:40 Ueno Station, Statue of Saigo Takamori, Shogitai Grave, Kiyomizu Kannon-do, Toshogu Shrine
    • 12:40 Lunch @ Haruka
    • 14:00 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, Sensoji Temple, etc.
    • 15:20 Dismissal @ Toei Asakusa Line Asakusa Station

    What's a Private Family Tour of Meiji Shrine and Ueno in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from Asia. Due to the extreme heat continuing from the previous day, I changed the plan from Rikugien Garden to the shaded Meiji Shrine and began the tour. The group showed interest in the irises and the Kiyomasa Well in the Meiji Shrine Inner Garden, so I showed them around. Along the way, they bought water several times from vending machines and also enjoyed ice cream. Since they wanted to activate Shinkansen tickets they had purchased online, we exchanged the QR codes for paper tickets for the entire route at a ticket machine in Ueno Station, and I added English readings next to the station names shown in Japanese. We decided to have lunch in Ueno, and since the guests eat only fish and vegetables, I suggested a Japanese restaurant with set meals, but they preferred an Asian restaurant that had suitable menu options, so we went there. The group seemed quite tired from the heat, but they were very well-behaved and did not complain at all. At Meiji Shrine, they dedicated an ema votive plaque, and the guests listened attentively to the historical explanations. I saw them off at the ticket gate of the Toei Asakusa Line, received words of gratitude, and the tour came to an end.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Harajuku150JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku～Ueno210JPY
    Section 3SubwayUeno～Asakusa180JPY
    Total540JPY

    Tour Report by Takako

    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!!

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    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…

  • Wakayama in One Day: Nonaka no Shimizu and Ippou-sugi

    Wakayama in One Day: Nonaka no Shimizu and Ippou-sugi

    Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage in 1 Day by Car with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • ' 7:45 Meet at Hotel Sanrakuso
    • 8:30- 9:30 Kumano Kodo, walk near Takijiri-oji
    • 10:00- 10:20 Visit Nonaka no Shimizu and Ippou-sugi
    • 10:45- 11:15 Visit former Hongu Taisha and Oyunohara
    • 11:45- 12:00 Dorokyo Post Office
    • 12:00- 12:15 Totsukawa Village Tourism Ambassador
    • 12:25- 12:45 Yamabiko Bridge, lunch
    • 12:55- 14:00 Sightseeing boat, board the Kawasemi
    • 15:10- 16:20 Daimonzaka walk, Nachi Taisha, Seiganto-ji, Three-Storied Pagoda, visit Nachi Falls
    • 18:20 Arrive at Hotel, dismissal
    • 　　　　(Vehicle surcharge to be paid by guest directly to driver)

    What Is a Private Kumano Kodo and Nachi Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I was able to meet the guest in the hotel lobby about 30 minutes early, and the vehicle also arrived 15 minutes ahead of schedule, so we were able to depart right away. Since the guest lives in a modern, large-city environment, we first experienced the steep mountain trail behind Takijiri-oji. I aimed to let them enjoy as much of the thrill as possible while staying prepared to respond in case of a stumble or fall. As this was before the tour buses arrived, the environment was very quiet. The guest enjoyed the unique natural surroundings of Nonaka-no-Shimizu spring and the Ipposugi cedars. At Hongu, due to time constraints, we only visited Oyunohara, the site of the former grand shrine. At Dorokyo Gorge on the Kitayama River, there were many unique experiences. Since the guest wished to purchase a souvenir at a post office, we went into the Dorokyo post office. Although it seems only a few houses are within walking distance, it is a traditional and relatively large post office, and the guest bought a postcard with a unique same-day postmark (photo). Despite being a post office in the mountains, a staff member responded in English. We spent some time with the local police officer and the cat cared for by the owner of the Kawasemi boat, the "Totsukawa Village Tourism Ambassador" (photo). We had lunch at Yamabiko Bridge, where I explained the level reached by the 2011 flood. From the bridge, we tossed Uradajiro (fern) into the air (in the photo, at the far left, at the height of the guest's hand). Although it was not planned at all, since the timing worked out and there was space in the seats, we took a sightseeing ride on the Kawasemi boat. We moved on to Nachi, walked the upper half of Daimonzaka, visited the waterfall, and toured Kumano Nachi Taisha, Seiganto-ji Temple, and the Three-Storied Pagoda, before heading to Shirahama. Since the guest had told me in advance that they would pay an overtime fee, we ran considerably behind schedule, but I accommodated their wishes as much as possible. When I consider that most guests will likely never visit the same place twice in their lifetime, I believe that the chance of "now" is irreplaceable and precious, and I want to meet the guests' wishes as much as I can. Due to time constraints, we passed by Kushimoto and Hashigui-iwa without stopping.

    Click here for more details: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage in 1 Day by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Hira

    I grew up in the mountain village. I learned many things from my family, especially my grandmother. I can give you many interesting experiences in the wild nature. We eat wild strawberries or “Sukanpo ” the edible grass, fly ferns or cross a suspension bridge.
    I walked all of Kumano Kodo, Koyasan pilgrimage roads and other ancient highways, total length is more than 600km ( 400 miles).
    I want you to show the interesting spots beyond the guide book. Kii mountain range has old history as well as beautiful land scapes. I’ll take you the excellent places you can do Facebook bragging.
    My experiences for guiding foreigners are, town of Koyasan, pilgrimage road to Koyasan, Kumano Kodo Nakahechi, hot springs, Shingu city and Nachi Katsuura town, Kushimoto area, Shirahama area so on.
    I wish to meet you soon!

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    May 12, 2025
    andrewgT8079NS
    Wonderful guide and magical scenery and locations.
    Tripadvisor review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip with Government Licensed Guide
    Wonderful, interesting…

    Apr 29, 2025
    farmahel
    A truly magnificent journey through the Kumano Kodo with a wonderfully kind Hira
    Tripadvisor review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip…

    Apr 27, 2025
    Sofia_N
    Had a great time. Guide…
    Viator review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip with Government Licensed Guide
    Had a great time.…

    Mar 23, 2025
    G
    GoPlaces681850
    Wonderful time with a local.
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Hira,…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Tour itinerary consultation & Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto in One Day: Tour itinerary consultation & Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet
    • 10:45 Tour itinerary consultation
    • 12:00 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 14:00 Nijo Castle / Cafe break
    • 15:45 Kinkaku-ji
    • 16:35 Disperse at Shijo Kawaramachi

    **Title:** What Is a Private Walking Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Although [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) provided assistance, I was unable to make contact with the guests before the day of the tour. We were able to meet successfully at the hotel, so I asked about their wishes. In addition to the planned destinations, Kiyomizu-dera Temple was also included, but since it was close to the hotel, I recommended that they visit early the next morning before it becomes crowded. It was a very hot and humid day, and because I was guiding them through places without air conditioning, I included frequent breaks and plenty of hydration. The guests listened with great interest to my explanations, particularly about the relationship between the shogun and the emperor. As they wished to do some shopping, we parted ways at Shijo Kawaramachi.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKiyomizu-Gojo～Sanjo170JPY
    Section 2SubwayKeihan Sanjo～Imadegawa260JPY
    Section 3SubwayImadegawa～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 4BusNijojo-mae～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 5BusKinkakuji-michi～Shijo Kawaramachi230JPY
    Total1,110JPY

    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!

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    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.…

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet at Odawara Station 10:50 Depart Odawara by mountain train, via Hakone-Yumoto and Gora, arrive Sounzan 12:14 Ropeway, at Owakudani Ropeway arrive Togendai 13:55 By pirate ship 14:20 Disembark at Hakonemachi Port Lunch at Donburi Chaya Maruyama Bussan Watch marquetry (yosegi) presentation 15:36 By bus from Sekisho-ato (checkpoint ruins), get off at Hakone-Yumoto
    • Depart this station 16:36 By train, arrive Odawara Station Accompany to the Shinkansen ticket counter and disband at 16:55

    A Private Day Tour of Hakone: What Can a Licensed Guide Show You? A Guide's Report One of the guests was feeling slightly unwell with a cold, so we purchased cough medicine at a convenience store. Since the group was hoping to see Mount Fuji, I explained at the outset that it would be difficult today, but we set off saying that we would take routes where there was a possibility of seeing it. The group enjoyed shopping and had a great time at Owakudani. The guests mentioned that their home region in Asia is very green and reminded them of Hakone. On the pirate ship, they thoroughly enjoyed the scenery from on board. Lunch was at a donburi restaurant, and because it was rather late, there were fewer other customers, which may have worked in our favor. When one of the guests wanted an omelet, which was not on the menu, the owner kindly made one specially. The guests were also interested in the Japanese language and asked me what "ikigai" (a reason for living) means, which I found quite challenging to explain.

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

    Transportation cost per person

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

    Tour Report by Hiro

    I am Hiroki Morikawa :Hiro:, English guide living with my wife ,just a hop skip and jump from Hakone, Kamakura, Tokyo and the Mt. Fuji.
    I am a friendly grandfather of 4 grandchildren.
    I would love to help you enjoy Japan, using my 3 strong points.
    First: I am used to dealing with any kind of matters. I have experienced various situations in the 40 years of my working life.
    Second: I am good at making a friendly atmosphere between you and local people to help you enjoy Japan. I was raised in western Japan, studied in northern Japan and now live in central Japan. So I know various local cultures and dialects to communicate with a wide variety of people.
    Third: I can explain things from a technical point of view.
    For example, how the Great Buddha was constructed, because I am a master of engineering graduated from Hokkaido University.
    Please enjoy Japan with me. See you soon!!
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    Jun 30, 2026
    G2432BLtimothyc
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Full Day Tour with Guide and Vehicle
    6 hour tour of Hakone
    we had a great experience with…

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at Kyoto Umekoji Kaden-sho
    • 10:10 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Walk ~ Tenryu-ji Garden
    • 12:00 Kinkaku-ji
    • 12:50 Lunch at Togenkyo
    • 14:35 Disband in front of Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. It was quite hot from the morning, with a high of 36 degrees. I asked them to stay hydrated as frequently as possible. None of the sites were particularly crowded today, which made for a very comfortable experience. They took their time strolling through the bamboo grove and gardens, taking many photos. One of the guests especially enjoyed photography and took pictures with their own camera. At Kinkaku-ji, perhaps because it was around lunchtime, there were surprisingly few people, and the guest was very pleased to have taken many good photos. Since it was very hot and they were getting tired, I suggested lunch as a chance to take a short break, and as they wanted ramen, we went to a nearby restaurant. They were very happy with it. Although we had gone over the scheduled tour time, I finally guided them to Fushimi Inari Taisha, gave a brief explanation, and we parted ways. I believe they enjoyed themselves.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainUmekoji-Kyotonishi～Sagaarashiyama200JPY
    Section 2TrainArashiyama～Kitano-Hakubaicho250JPY
    Section 3BusKitano-Hakubaicho～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 4BusKinkakuji-michi～Kitaoji Bus Terminal230JPY
    Section 5SubwayKitaoji～Kyoto260JPY
    Section 6TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Total1,320JPY

    Tour Report by Kaeko

    Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

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    Jul 25, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Half-day with private guide in Kyoto
    We spent half a day…

    Jul 24, 2026
    J6711TVnancyb
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Family Fun Day in Kyoto with young children
    Kaeko Tanigawa was fantastic at helping us create…

    Jul 13, 2026
    elizabethtW414DU
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Private Tour
    Kaeko was absolutely amazing from start…

    Jul 12, 2026
    johnkE8649IH
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Kyoto Day Tour
    We had a wonderful experience touring Kyoto…

  • Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Meet (@Double Tree by Hilton Kyoto Station)
    • 9:00-9:30 Travel (contracted car: Hotel→Kiyomizu-dera/Chawanzaka)
    • 9:30-10:40 Kiyomizu-dera visit (including Yasaka Pagoda and Koshin-do)
    • 10:40-10:55 Travel (contracted car; Yasaka Pagoda parking→Sanjusangendo)
    • 10:55-11:40 Sanjusangendo visit
    • 11:40-11:55 Travel (contracted car; Sanjusangendo→Restaurant Sato)
    • 11:55-12:45 Lunch (Sato)
    • 12:45-13:05 Travel (contracted car; Restaurant→Fushimi Inari Taisha)
    • 13:05-14:00 Fushimi Inari Taisha visit
    • 14:00-14:30 Travel (Fushimi Inari Taisha→Hotel)
    • ※Tour ended a little early with the customer's agreement.　　14:30 Said goodbye to the customer in front of the hotel

    Title: What Is a Private Guided Day Tour of Kyoto Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. One member was very knowledgeable about history, and the reason the group had booked a guided tour was so that questions about history could be answered during the visit. I took the group to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Sanjusangen-do Temple, and Fushimi Inari Shrine. Unfortunately, the temperature rose to 36°C during the tour, and the afternoon visit to Fushimi Inari in particular took place in extreme heat. Fortunately, we traveled by contracted vehicle, which made things much easier. After consulting with the guests, we ended the tour a little earlier than planned. Some of the guests said Fushimi Inari was their favorite, while another preferred Sanjusangen-do Temple. After the tour, I received several photos taken during the day from one of the guests.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherHotel (Double Tree by Hilton Kyoto Station)～Kiyomizu-dera (Chawanzaka)0JPY
    Section 2OtherYasaka Pagoda parking～Sanjusangendo0JPY
    Section 3OtherSanjusangendo～Restaurant Sato0JPY
    Section 4OtherRestaurant (Sato)～Fushimi Inari Taisha0JPY
    Section 5OtherFushimi Inari Taisha～Hotel (Double Tree by Hilton Station)0JPY
    Total0JPY

    Tour Report by Michi

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Sumida park and Sumida RiverWalk

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Sumida park and Sumida RiverWalk

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 meeting with your guide ouside the entrance of Hotel
    • 9:10〜9:50 transfer Osuka→Asakusa
    • (JR train ➕Tokyo metro)
    • 9:50〜10:50 Sensoji temple, Nakamise shoping street, and Asakus shrine
    • 10:50〜12:00 walking through Sumida park and Sumida RiverWalk
    • 12:00〜13:00 Sky Tree shoping floor
    • 13:00 End of the tour in a restaurant in the 7th floor of Sky Tree

    Title: What's a Half-Day Private Tour of Asakusa and Tokyo Skytree Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America. After exchanging messages in advance, they said they wanted to fully enjoy Asakusa and Tokyo Skytree (shopping and dining), so the itinerary was arranged accordingly. The guests actively asked a variety of questions, which made it a participatory tour driven by questions and answers. Since they seemed genuinely interested, I explained the Japanese sense of religion in considerable detail. At Tokyo Skytree, I took them to an official character goods shop they had wanted to visit for a long time. They were delighted and thoroughly enjoyed their shopping. Although it was only a half-day tour, they seemed to have had a wonderful time.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOtsuka～Ueno178JPY
    Section 2SubwayUeno～Asakusa178JPY
    Total356JPY

    Tour Report by Taki

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    I am looking forward to meeting you.

    Best regards,

    Takashi

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Glanz Kei Kyoto Station　Departure
    • 9:10 Tenryuji Temple　Arrival
    • Sagano Bamboo Grove　Arashiyama Park　Stroll　
    • 10:20 Tenryuji Temple　　Departure
    • 10:50 Nijo Castle Arrival
    • 11:50 Nijo Castle　Departure
    • 12:00～13:00　Lunch
    • 13:10 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine　Arrival
    • 13:50 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine　Departure
    • 14;10 Toji Temple Tour
    • 14:30 Glanz Kei Kyoto Station　Arrival

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama, Nijo Castle, and Fushimi Inari The first stop of this private day tour of Kyoto was Tenryu-ji Temple. From the north gate of Tenryu-ji, the guests were moved by the beautiful views of the Arashiyama bamboo grove, the observation deck at the park, and the scenery along the Katsura River. Next, we visited Nijo Castle. When I explained that the Ninomaru Palace consists of five buildings — the first and second for imperial envoys, the third for the outer feudal lords, the fourth for the hereditary feudal lords, and the fifth for the shogun, with 33 rooms and 800 tatami mats in total — the guests seemed very surprised. They were also interested in and asked questions about the nightingale floors, the Kano school wall paintings, and the large nail covers. In the Ninomaru Garden, they seemed interested in the large pond and the story of the stones shaped like a turtle and a crane, which symbolize longevity. For lunch, we went to eat udon, and they were amused by the robot serving the food. After that, we went to Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. Passing through the Senbon Torii, there is a stone called the "Omokaru Ishi" in the back right of the "Okunoin." First, you make a wish in front of the lantern. Then, you lift the round stone placed on top of the lantern. The guests were interested in the story that if the stone feels lighter than expected, your wish will come true, and they tried very hard at it. It was a hot day, but the guests told me it had been a wonderful trip.

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

    Tour Report by Kaji

    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.

    Request Booking

    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…