Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa Station & Shimbashi Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa Station & Shimbashi Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:45 Meeting place: Tokyo International Cruise Terminal
    • 10:00 Tokyo International Cruise Terminal Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • Shimbashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 10:30 Arrive at Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • 11:00 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 11:10 Arrive at Suehirocho Station
    • Akihabara Akihabara Electric Town
    • 12:00 Depart Suehirocho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Nihombashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 12:30 Arrive at Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • Shop
    • 13:30 Nijubashimae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 14:00 Arrive at Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Lunch: Hidakaya
    • Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Irish Pub
    • 16:00 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 16:20 Shimbashi Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • 16:50 Arrive at Tokyo International Cruise Terminal Station
    • 16:50 Disband: Tokyo International Cruise Terminal Station

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Cruise Port Tour Like for a Solo Guest? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a solo traveler from North America, visiting Japan for the first time. This trip was a retirement celebration. The guest had boarded a cruise ship in Asia, spent 12 days traveling around various parts of Japan, and arrived this morning at the Tokyo International Cruise Terminal. After this, the day after next, the ship would call at various ports in Japan again before returning to a port in Asia, from which the guest planned to fly home. The guest had mobility limitations that made fast walking difficult and found being in crowds for long periods stressful. Because of this, we arranged the tour to use elevators and escalators as much as possible. The cruise ship docked earlier than scheduled. The guest expressed a wish to buy various souvenirs for family members during the tour. The tour took place under cloudy skies, with some rain along the way. First, we headed to Asakusa. As usual, it was very crowded, especially with large foreign tour groups and school excursion students. We started from in front of Kaminarimon Gate. I explained about Sensoji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo, what the five-story pagoda is for, what Buddhism is, and the differences between Buddhism and Shinto. We took a commemorative photo in front of Kaminarimon Gate. Along Nakamise shopping street, the guest bought chopsticks and a T-shirt as souvenirs. Because of the dislike of crowds, we did not enter the main hall. There were questions such as "What are Japan's main religions?", "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", and "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people follow?" There was also a question about whether people go to temples every week. We then moved to Akihabara. I explained about the history of Akihabara. The guest bought several character figures as souvenirs for family. The guest also wanted to buy a digital camera for personal use, but gave up because the price was not right. We moved to the Imperial Palace and strolled through the East Gardens. There was a question about when the cherry blossoms are at their best. I explained about the history of Edo, the history from the Edo period to the Meiji era, the Meiji Restoration, why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace, and why the capital moved from Kyoto to Tokyo. There were questions such as "What happened to the shoguns and samurai after the Meiji Restoration?" and "Does the current Emperor of Japan hold political power?" At the shop, the guest bought a small accessory case as a souvenir for family. From here we moved to Shibuya. Since the guest wanted to eat ramen, we went to a ramen restaurant for lunch. At this point the rain began. We took photos at the Scramble Crossing. The guest said, "I don't want to walk into the middle of the crossing," and also asked, "Why do so many people gather here?" We also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. Mentioning a friend who collects Irish Pub T-shirts from around the world, the guest wanted to visit an Irish Pub near the top of Dogenzaka, so we went there. The guest made comments and asked questions such as, "It's strange that there's no litter on the streets," "Doesn't anyone throw trash on the streets?", and "Why are there no trash cans on the streets?" The guest also remarked that the Tokyo subway is hard to understand. I saw the guest off at the Tokyo International Cruise Terminal Station on the Yurikamome line, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherTokyo International Cruise Terminal Station~Shimbashi Station388JPY
    Section 2SubwayShimbashi Station~Asakusa Station209JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa Station~Suehirocho Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwaySuehirocho Station~Otemachi Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwayNijubashimae Station~Shibuya Station209JPY
    Section 6SubwayShibuya Station~Shimbashi Station178JPY
    Section 7OtherShimbashi Station~Tokyo International Cruise Terminal Station388JPY
    Total1,728JPY

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Wakayama in Half a Day: Mani Pagoda & Okunoin Walk 20-cho

    Wakayama in Half a Day: Mani Pagoda & Okunoin Walk 20-cho

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meeting・East of the Koya town area on Prefectural Route 53
    • 11:10- 11:25 Visit Mani Pagoda
    • 11:35- 12:15 Visit Kongo Sanmai-in
    • 12:20- 13:10 Visit Danjo Garan (Tour inside Konpon Daito)
    • 13:25- 13:40 Visit Tokugawa Mausoleum
    • 13:55- 14:10 Visit Kongobu-ji
    • 14:20- 15:10 Okunoin Walk 20-cho→In front of Okunoin
    • 15:10 Dismissal・Okunoin parking space
    • (All travel uses the guest's rental car)

    Title: What Is a Private Koyasan Tour Like from Totsukawa Onsen? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests stayed two nights at Totsukawa Onsen and then visited Koyasan. Although the road is narrow, I designated a meeting point at a wide, open spot at the entrance to the Koyasan town area, using the shortest route via Prefectural Route 53. During the guiding, when I showed a photo of the Tanize Suspension Bridge, the guests became very interested and decided they wanted to head back before it got late (the Tanize Suspension Bridge cannot be seen when taking the bypass tunnel). First, we visited the Mani Pagoda. While there are some cultural questions about it, it allows one to convey topics such as Theravada Buddhism and Japan's wartime expansion into Asia during World War II. It also offers unique experiences, such as a Buddhist statue faintly visible in a pitch-dark basement and a bridge that served as the model for the film "The Bridge on the River Kwai." At Kongo Sanmai-in, we saw a building that, unusually for Koyasan, escaped fire damage, along with a distinctive Aizen Myoo statue. At the Danjo Garan, we also viewed the interior of the Konpon Daito. Next we visited the Tokugawa Mausoleum, and viewed Kongobuji from the outside. By going over the mountain, we were able to visit these three sites without traveling the same road twice. We then moved to Okunoin, starting from a roadside parking space and taking an approximately 1 km walk along the approach lined with gravestones.

    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!

    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,…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Guide to the cat cafe and end the

    Tokyo in One Day: Guide to the cat cafe and end the

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:50 Meet at the hotel
    • 9:35 Hibiya Park, Imperial Palace Plaza
    • 10:30 Ueno Park, Shinobazu Pond, Benzaiten, Kiyomizu Kannon-do, Saigo Takamori Statue, etc.
    • 12:20 Lunch in Asakusa. Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Street, Asakusa Shrine, etc.
    • 14:40 Akihabara. Introduce Radio Kaikan, Don Quijote, etc.
    • 15:10 Guide to the cat cafe and end the tour

    What Is a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. I guided them through Hibiya Park, mentioning the Imperial Hotel and the site of the Rokumeikan, and explained their contribution to Japan's modernization. From the Sakuradamon Gate we walked to the plaza in front of the Imperial Palace, where I explained Japanese castles, the emperor, and the shogun. We then moved to Ueno Park, where I explained that Kan'ei-ji Temple was built here to protect Edo Castle and later became a park. I guided them around Shinobazu Pond, Bentendo Hall, and Kiyomizu Kannon-do, which were modeled after Kyoto, and introduced Saigo Takamori. Moving on to Asakusa, the guests were delighted with casual Japanese food such as oyakodon, makunouchi bento, and katsudon with beer. At Senso-ji Temple and Asakusa Shrine, I explained Buddhism and Shinto and their influence on Japanese life. In Akihabara, as the guests seemed a little tired, I gave brief explanations while walking through the town and took them to the cat cafe they had been looking forward to.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOnarimon~Hibiya180JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijubashimae~Yushima180JPY
    Section 3SubwayUeno~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa~Akihabara180JPY
    Total720JPY

    My name is Shuji, meaning “Excellent Manager” in English. I was born in Hiroshima 1952. I have 2 children and 3 grandchildren.
    After graduating Kyoto Univ. I joined Mitsubishi-UFJ Bank, Osaka Branch where I met my wife who was a master of Englsih, so I started studying English.
    The bank allowed me to go to Columbia Graduate business school in New York and got MBA Degree there. I worked in London and Manchester Branch.
    During staying in U.K., I was introduced by BBC and Financial Times News Paper about my achievement there. I was selected as a personal assistant and interpreter for the President of the Bank.
    I made many business trips with him to overseas countries. I experienced as an interpreter for meeting late Henry Kissinger and the President of Citi. Corp.
    I changed the job to ORIX corporation, there I was promoted to a Board Member. When the company had acquired Dutch company, I was a member as an accountant to check the Dutch company’s statements of accounts.
    My hobbies are cooking, singing a song, playing tennis & golf, enjoy seeing arts especially opera & musical, travel. I am also busy with taking care of grandchildren. I passed Government Licensed Guide Exam. in 2016. After I retired in 2017, I started guide job as a part timer. So far, I accomplished guide job more than 500 times.
    My area coverage is from Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji to Kyoto, Nara, Oaka, Hiroshima. I am also able to guide Tea Ceremony, Maiko/Geisha, Sushi Making, Calligraphy, Sumo, Samurai, etc. I can speak excellent English. My knowledge is very wide and deep about not only sightseeing places but Japanese History, Culture, Religion, Daily Life. I know many foreign countries and people. I love talking with all kinds of people including babies with interesting humor.
    By the way, I look young for my age of 74.

    Jul 16, 2026
    salomons666
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto fun
    Amazing with our guide Shuji very kind and acknowledge

    Jul 15, 2026
    P9099TXkennethr
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    A great day
    A great day in the Company of mr. Shuji.

    Jun 28, 2026
    A
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    AmyfromPlano
    Shuji is the best! Once we booked this tour, he reached…

    Jun 22, 2026
    yeseniag981
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Osaka Tour
    Our tour guide Shuji was amazing. He was…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Rikugien Garden & Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Tokyo in One Day: Rikugien Garden & Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU
    • 10:50 Rikugien Garden
    • 12:10 Ueno Toshogu Shrine
    • 12:50 Yanaka
    • 13:20 Lunch @ Wosakana Shokudo
    • 14:55 Meiji Shrine
    • 16:00 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 16:30 Disband at Onitsuka Tiger Omotesando

    What Is a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shinjuku, Ueno, Yanaka, and Harajuku It was a day with occasional direct sunlight that made it warm, but it was not too hot, so the tour progressed smoothly. I gave an overview of the tour in Shinjuku and then headed to Rikugien Garden. The guests took many photos there. At Ueno Toshogu Shrine, many questions came up about religion and history. The guests were quite knowledgeable about Tokugawa Ieyasu. From Ueno we went to Yanaka, where I explained the old townscape and temples, and we had lunch at a restaurant in Nezu that I did not know well, but it turned out to be a wonderful place, surprising both the guide and the guests. At Meiji Jingu Shrine, the guests also took many photos and enjoyed themselves. On Takeshita Street they bought tapioca drinks and had a great time. The guests were very interested in animal cafes. When I guided them to Onitsuka Tiger Omotesando as requested, they indicated that we could finish there, so the tour ended. Tip received.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Komagome178JPY
    Section 2TrainKomagome~Ueno167JPY
    Section 3TrainNezu~Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Total554JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in One Day: Soraniwa Terrace Kyoto & JRKyoto Sta

    Kyoto in One Day: Soraniwa Terrace Kyoto & JRKyoto Sta

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Soraniwa Terrace Kyoto
    • 13:40 Kinkakuji by 5-seater taxi
    • 14:50 Ryoanji by walking
    • 16:40 Randen Arashiyama Sta.
    • Togetsukyo
    • Arashiyama
    • Kameyama Park
    • 17:10 Bamboo Grove by walking
    • 17:00 Arashiyama by walking
    • 18:15 SagaArashiyama Sta. by walking
    • 18:40 JRKyoto Sta. by JR train
    • 18:50 Subway Kyoto Sta.
    • End of the tour

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji, Ryoan-ji, and Arashiyama The guests were a group visiting from North America. Since there were several guests, we called a taxi through a rideshare app to get to Kinkaku-ji. We walked to Ryoan-ji, but it was extremely hot and humid today, and the sweat would not stop. The guests were very taken with the atmosphere of Ryoan-ji and purchased a paperweight featuring the design of the rock garden. There were many water lily buds, but none were in bloom. We took the Randen tram to Arashiyama. Its relaxed atmosphere suited the guests well, and I think it was a good choice. They moved at a leisurely pace and enjoyed various snacks along the way, so partly because we were running short on time and partly due to some fatigue, they decided not to extend the tour to the final planned destination of Fushimi Inari and instead returned to the Hotel by subway. It was a fun atmosphere everywhere we went.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainRyoanji~Arashiyama250JPY
    Section 2TrainSaga-Arashiyama~Kyoto240JPY
    Total490JPY

    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 One Day: Tofuku-ji Temple & Sagano Bamboo Grove

    Kyoto in One Day: Tofuku-ji Temple & Sagano Bamboo Grove

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meeting Dusit Thani Kyoto
    • 09:30 to 10:15 Tofuku-ji Temple
    • 11:00 to 11:30 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 12:00 to 12:30 Gion
    • 12:45 to 13:15 Nishiki Market
    • 14:00 to 14:30 Sagano Bamboo Grove
    • 15:00 Dismissal JR Kyoto Station

    What Is a Private Kyoto Tour Like for Guests with Limited Mobility? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from Europe. The weather forecast indicated that it would be another hot day. There was some concern about whether the whole group would be able to make it up to Kiyomizu-dera Temple. When we reached the Nio-mon Gate, one of the guests said it was no longer possible to continue climbing, so we did not enter the paid area. I had hoped to use the bus as much as possible so that we could somehow continue the tour to the end. With their perseverance, we were able to complete the planned itinerary. I was glad that we were able to see it through to the finish.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKyoto Station~Tofuku-ji Temple230JPY
    Section 2BusTofuku-ji Temple~Gojozaka230JPY
    Section 3BusKiyomizuzaka~Gion230JPY
    Section 4BusGion~Shijo Kawaramachi230JPY
    Section 5BusShijo Takakura~Shijo Omiya230JPY
    Section 6TrainRanden Shijo Omiya~Arashiyama250JPY
    Section 7TrainJR Saga-Arashiyama~Kyoto180JPY
    Total1,580JPY

    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: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30  Depart from Fauchon
    • 8:45 Arrive at Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 9:50 Depart from Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 10:10 Arrive at Kodai-ji Temple
    • 10:40 Depart from Kodai-ji Temple
    • 11:10 Arrive at Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 12:00 Depart from Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 12:20~13:20  Lunch
    • 13:40 Arrive at Ginkaku-ji Temple
    • 14:20 Depart from Ginkaku-ji Temple
    • 14:30 Arrive at Nanzen-ji Temple
    • 15:00 Depart from Nanzen-ji Temple
    • 15:30 Arrive at Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 16:10 Depart from Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 16:30 Disband at Fauchon

    What Is a Full-Day Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji, and Fushimi Inari The first stop was Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The guests were amazed to learn that the main hall was donated by Tokugawa Iemitsu in 1633, and that more than 200 people had jumped from the famous Kiyomizu stage, with over 85% of them surviving. The second stop was Kodai-ji Temple. The guests were moved by the story that it was founded in 1606 by Nene, the principal wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, to pray for the soul of her late husband, and by the beauty of the bamboo grove. The third stop was Kinkaku-ji Temple. The guests had visited 25 years earlier and seemed nostalgic. They were especially moved by the golden shimmer of Kinkaku-ji. The fourth stop was Ginkaku-ji Temple. The guests were impressed by the view of the temple buildings and gardens seen from the observation point. The fifth stop was Nanzen-ji Temple. The guests went up to the main gate and enjoyed the pleasant breeze. At the Suirokaku aqueduct, they only fully understood the story that it was built to carry water from Lake Biwa to Kyoto after climbing the stairs and viewing it from above. The last stop was Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. At the purification fountain, I explained how to cleanse the hands and mouth before worship. I then guided them to the front of the main hall and explained the etiquette of bowing twice, clapping twice, making a wish, and bowing once. After that came the famous Senbon Torii. Passing through the Senbon Torii, one reaches the "Okusha." To the back right, there is a stone called "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 guests were intrigued by the story that if the stone feels lighter than you expected, your wish will come true, and they took on the challenge enthusiastically.

    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet up @ Yotsuya-sanchome Station
    • 9:40 Asakusa
    • 11:30 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 12:00 Harajuku Lunch @ Gonpachi
    • 12:50 Meiji Shrine, Break @ Forest Cafe
    • 14:30 UNIQLO & Takeshita Street
    • 15:20 Disband @ Pig Cafe

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Highlights Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Shibuya, and Meiji Shrine The guests were a group visiting from North America. Since it was their first time in Japan, we visited the highlights of Asakusa, Shibuya, and Meiji Shrine. At Nakamise, the guests tried samples of kaminari-okoshi and bought some as souvenirs. They were surprised that Sensoji Temple was even more crowded than New York, but they enjoyed browsing the souvenir shops. Because it was very hot, after walking around Meiji Shrine we took a break at the Forest Cafe before heading to Harajuku. The guests bought T-shirts at UNIQLO, and along Takeshita Street they peeked into various animal cafes. As time had passed, we said our goodbyes in front of a pig cafe, and the guests mentioned that they planned to explore a bit more of Harajuku.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayYotsuya-sanchome~Asakusa252JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Shibuya252JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya~Harajuku146JPY
    Total650JPY

    Hello,
    I’m Rumi.Welcome to Japan!!
    I’m a government-licensed guide in the Tokyo area.
    I’m so excited to have a chance to show you my favorite places in Tokyo.
    Tokyo is a fantastic city with many aspects like history,culture and food.
    What interests you about Tokyo?
    What kind of Japanese food would you like to try?
    I’ll take you to various places according to your request.
    My favorite spot is Meiji Shrine.
    It’s so peaceful that I’m sure you like it.
    I really like to talk with foreigners about various topics.So, I love my job.
    I look forward to meeting and guiding you soon.

    Jun 29, 2026
    898clausw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Really helpfull guide
    Extremely helpfull to have a friendly and competent guide…

    Jun 27, 2026
    sallypO7128PM
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo- family with older teens
    My family had an excellent…

    Jun 15, 2026
    Scott P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Terrific Tour and Guide
    We had an incredible day! Rumi was…

    Jun 12, 2026
    Tonya O
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Rumi is a great guide!
    Rumi was a wonderful guide. She…

  • Kyoto: Guide to Kinkaku-ji & Guide to Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Kyoto: Guide to Kinkaku-ji & Guide to Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00: Meet the client @ Hotel Okura
    • 9:30: Guide to Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 11:00: Guide to Tenryu-ji Temple
    • 13:00: Guide to Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 14:30: Lunch @ "Gontaro"
    • 15:00: Disband @ Teramachi Street

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report Today was extremely hot and humid, making it a challenging day for sightseeing. The guests were a group from North America. They had visited Japan once about ten years ago, so this was a nostalgic return visit to Kyoto for them. When I guided them around Kinkaku-ji, they were a cheerful group and we enjoyed pleasant conversation. At Tenryu-ji, I explained the Japanese garden while they enjoyed the botanical scenery, and then we moved on to the bamboo grove, where they took many photos and created lots of memories. From the bamboo grove we moved on to Fushimi Inari Taisha, and although the weather was hot, they enjoyed drawing "omikuji" fortunes and walking through the Senbon Torii, taking many photos here as well. When we reached Fushimi Inari, the conversation turned to lunch, so I guided them to a soba restaurant, where they enjoyed a meal along with more conversation. After lunch, the guests wished to go shopping, so we parted ways at Teramachi Street. As the guide, I had injured my foot, so I feel I may have inconvenienced the guests, but I am grateful that it was a relaxed and pleasant day of sightseeing throughout.

    After a rather long teaching experience at Japanese college, I converted my career about 6 years ago into working as a tour guide for the tourists visiting Japan.
    As my career overseas, I’ve been in the UN and the Japanese Embassy, all in the USA, totaling more than 6 years.
    And then I had made a big change in my career from a diplomat to an academic researcher. For that career to achieve, I studied abroad and won a doctorate degree in linguistics from Indiana University and landed a teaching position at college in Japan.
    With all these interesting and exciting experiences I’ve made myself ready to enrich your tour and make it both enjoyable and worthwhile.

    Apr 26, 2026
    39ferdinandr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Exceptional and entertaining
    Great tour better the tour guide Toshi.

    Apr 9, 2026
    X1429XKclaudiam
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sehr zu empfehlen
    Wir haben als Familie diese 6-stundige Tour durch Kyoto…

    Jun 28, 2025
    WilliamAlfonso_R
    Toshi is a very eloquent, knowledgeable, and diligent tour guide.
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Toshi was…

    May 30, 2025
    Z
    ZevP5
    Best Tour Guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the best guide!! He was so…

  • Nara in One Day: JR Nara station & Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall

    Nara in One Day: JR Nara station & Todaiji’s Great Buddha Hall

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:51 JR Nara station (Start of Guided Tour)
    • (bus 10 minutes, 250 yen per person)
    • 11:10-40 Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Deer Park
    • We will be in the park almost to the end of tour
    • (walk 5 minutes)
    • 12:00-13:00 Kasuga-taisha Shrine (UNESCO World Heritage)
    • entrance 700 yen
    • 13:15-40 lunch at Mizuya Chaya ?
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • 14:00-30 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill:
    • former katana sword manufacturer's
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • 14:50-15:40 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall
    • (walk 5 minutes)
    • 15:50 Bus stop: Todaiji Great Buddha Hall・National Museum
    •     bus
    • 16:20 (End of Tour) back at JR Nara Station

    What Is a Private Buddhist and Shinto Temple Tour in Japan Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests came from North America, and I was looking forward to meeting them. As expected, the guests were very engaged. I had never before received such a steady stream of precise and insightful questions about Buddhism and Shinto. I only wished we had had more time. Because of the harsh conditions of 35°C and high humidity, we finished a little earlier than planned, but it seemed they enjoyed the tour immensely. A foreign visitor who had been listening in on my explanations even told me, "Next time I come, I would definitely like to ask you to be my guide."

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusJR Nara Station~Todaiji Great Buddha Hall・Kasuga-taisha Shrine Front250JPY
    Section 2BusTodaiji Great Buddha Hall・National Museum~JR Nara Station250JPY
    Total500JPY

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

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

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

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

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