Category: Uncategorized

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Namba & Shitenoji Temple

    Osaka in Half a Day: Namba & Shitenoji Temple

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 meet at the cruise tarminal
    • 12:00-12:30 move to Namba
    • 12:30-14:35 Dotombori / Kuromon Market
    • 14:50-15:40 Shitenoji Temple
    • 15:40-16:20 Osaka Port near the cruise tarminal （End of the tour）

    Can You Do a Relaxed Private Walking Tour of Dotonbori and Kuromon Market in Osaka? A Licensed Guide's Report Since I had been told that one of the guests preferred to avoid stairs, we took our time enjoying a leisurely food walk through Dotonbori and Kuromon Market. The guests enjoyed takoyaki and beer, and at Hozenji Yokocho we offered candles and incense to the Fudo statue and poured water over it. At Kuromon Market, while one of the guests rested on a chair in front of a shop, we sampled tempura and other foods and looked at the fish on display and swimming in the tanks. Shitennoji Temple is also quite large, so while one of the guests sat in the shade, the rest of us strolled around the temple grounds. On the way back, we passed a station near Osaka Castle, so I let the guests know we could go to a spot where the castle is visible, but they felt that a little sightseeing per day was enough, and since they had learned how to use the subway, they said they would go tomorrow if possible. I saw them off at a spot with a view of the cruise ships at Osaka Port, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOsaka Port～Namba290JPY
    Section 2SubwayNippombashi～Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 3SubwayShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka～Osaka Port290JPY
    Total770JPY

    Tour Report by Yuki

    Hi! I’m an official English guide in Wakayama prefecture. I’m also a national guide as well. I’d like to expand my guide area to help tourists.
    The town of Osaka offers a different atmosphere than Tokyo. I like both exciting Osaka and nature-filled Wakayama Prefecture.
    If you stay in Osaka for 3 days, you can go to Koyasan for one day, or even for a day trip, so I recommend sightseeing at Koyasan.
    If you are tired of the hustle and bustle of the big city, the nature of Koyasan will relax you.
    I will introduce you to the unique culture, history and must-see sights.

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    Aug 17, 2026
    yasmintX6792FN
    Great trip
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Sites Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    It was a great time and very interesting…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Shelley_E
    Viator review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    There is much to do in…
    There is much to…

    May 28, 2026
    Duncan_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Great Tour of Kyoto
    The tour was both very informative and…

    May 28, 2026
    ignaciosilenzi
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Koyasan with Miyuki
    Miyuki was…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0900 Meet at Hotel Ginza (5 min from Ginza Station on the Ginza Line)　Kabukiza Theater　Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 1015 Asakusa　Nakamise　Sensoji Temple　Asakusa Shrine　
    • 1200 Ueno　Lunch at Hinazushi in Sakura Terrace　Shogitai Monument　Statue of Saigo Takamori　Kiyomizu Kannon-do　View the Tokyo National Museum and more on the way to Ueno Station
    • 1330 Nippori　Yuyake Dandan　Yanaka Ginza　Yomise-dori　Nezu Shrine
    • 1430 Tokyo Station　Marunouchi Building pine pillars　Marunouchi　Gyoko-dori　Tatsumi Yagura Turret
    • 1515 Guide to the Hibiya Line platform at Hibiya Station and disperse

    The guests were a group visiting from North America. After traveling around the Kansai region, they arrived in Tokyo the previous night. One of the guests had visited Japan long ago but had only faint memories of it, while the others were visiting for the first time. One of the guests had recently completed studies and said this was a graduation trip to make up for a student period spent unable to travel due to the pandemic, with plans to pursue further advanced studies. Another guest was also engaged in research and hoped to pursue advanced studies in the future. Unlike many groups, only one of the guests took photographs, while the others were not particularly keen on it. Since one of the guests needed to avoid gluten, I gave them a Japanese-made gluten-free soy sauce as a gift. They brought it along on the tour, and we had lunch at Hina Sushi in Ueno, where they enjoyed plenty of sushi. However, I let them know that the marinated toppings and the omelet might contain regular soy sauce, so those were exchanged for fatty tuna with another guest. They love mochi, so at a dango shop called "Akitaya" in Nezu, after confirming that no wheat flour was used, they thoroughly enjoyed kusa-mochi. As an aside, I was impressed that they understood exactly why it was necessary to ask whether wheat flour was used even at such a shop. The "Matsugui" (wooden pile) exhibit at the Marunouchi Building, which had been closed for some time, had reopened, so I was able to explain it again after a long while.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTsukiji to Ueno～Asakusa700JPY
    Section 2Free PassAsakusa～Ueno0JPY
    Section 3TrainUeno～Nippori146JPY
    Section 4Free PassNezu～Nijubashimae0JPY
    Section 5Free PassNijubashimae～Hibiya0JPY
    Total846JPY

    Tour Report by Ted

    I had worked in the international business scene for over 40 years and traveled to North America and European countries over 1000 days.
    After I retired from the business, I traveled to most of the major sightseeing spots in all 47 prefectures in Japan.

    My guide is starting from a brief history of the site where I am going to guide. I usually add a briefing about Japanese culture based on religions, such as Shinto Shrine and Buddhist temples. A geographic background behind the history is also important.
    My course includes 4 to 5 (in 6 hours) sites from the following depending on where I will pick the guests up;
    – Senso ji Temple
    – Kappabashi Kitchenware Market
    – Tokyo Skytree
    – Ueno Park
    – Nezu Shrine
    – Imperial Palace outer park
    – Tokyo Central Station, Marunouchi historic district
    – Tsukiji Fish Market
    – Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    – Ginza
    – Odaiba
    – Hama Rikyu Garden
    – Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
    – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
    – Roppongi
    – Meiji Shrine
    – Harajuku & Takeshita Street
    – Shibuya
    – and Any of your interest.

    I am happy to introduce Japanese Manga/Anime cultures such as Akihabara, Nakano Broadway and Ghibli related sites.
    Travelling along the JR central line where guests can stopover at major animation studios (it is not accepted to visit the inside). The majority of animation studios such as TMS Entertainment, SUNRISE, A1 Pictures etc. are located in this area. Suginami Animation museum, Studio Ghibli and Ghibli Museum are also located.
    Guests can feel old houses in the Spirited Away scene in the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.

    I can also provide a pilgrimage to the sacred place (shooting location) for the Shinkai Makoto animation movies such as Your name, Weathering with you, and Suzume.

    Another interesting feature is to visit authentic Japanese style pub meals such as Yakitori, Karaage, and Sushi etc.
    Asakusa Hoppy Street, Ameyoko Street, Yurakucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku Golden gai, Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho are nice to visit.

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

    In addition to the above, I am available in the neighboring cities.

    Kawagoe is an old town developed in the 17th century. It has very close relationship with the Edo central government. Kawagoe castle ruins, Kitain temple and 500 Buddha statues will welcome the guests.
    These areas are renovated and provide an old days atmosphere.
    Japanese style sweets food stands will fascinate the guests.
    Kawagoe is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    Kamakura is the first Samurai worriers government established in the late 12th century.
    The Buddhism are introduced to Japan in the 6th century, and flourished at Nara and Kyoto later. A newer Buddhism sect such as Zen has well developed at Kamakura area.
    Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Gigantic Buddha statue at Kotokuin Temple and the flower temple Hasedera Temple are must-see.
    Kamakura is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    I am also happy to develop any other site the guests have interest.

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    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

    Jun 26, 2026
    ann r
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Educational with kind, generous guide
    My teenage sons and I learned…

    Jun 14, 2026
    141yunb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
    We…

    May 18, 2026
    B
    Beth56646
    Great tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Ted and I agreed upon what we would see…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Ryoan-ji

    Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Ryoan-ji

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Hotel Meet (@Mercure Kyoto Station)
    • 8:20-8:50 Travel (Subway; Kyoto Station → Nijojo-mae)
    • 8:50-10:00 Visit Nijo Castle
    • 10:00-10:40 Travel (City Bus; Nijojo-mae → Kinkakuji-michi)
    • 10:50-11:40 Visit Kinkaku-ji
    • 11:50-12:50 Lunch (Japanese Cuisine Joy)
    • 12:50-13:10 Travel (City Bus: Kinkakuji-michi → Ryoanji-mae)
    • 13:10-14:00 Visit Ryoan-ji
    • ※Tour ends after visiting Ryoan-ji.　　　After the tour, we saw the guests off to their hotel and said goodbye

    What Can You See on a Private Kyoto Day Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji, and Ryoan-ji The guests were a group visiting from North America. When I met the guests, I reviewed the schedule that had been confirmed in advance, but the guests commented that they had not been informed of this schedule, so we discussed and reworked the itinerary together. It appears that the local travel agency had not communicated the details well. This was a case where, despite repeated attempts to make contact with no reply, cancellation had been under discussion with [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/); the connection was made only because the local travel agency happened to reach out just before the actual cancellation, and even the previously agreed content had not been conveyed to the guests. As a result of our discussion, we decided to visit Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji, and Ryoan-ji. For the Kyoto Imperial Palace, which had originally been agreed upon, I recommended using the English guide service there, and swapped it for Ryoan-ji, which the guests had requested. Regarding Fushimi Inari, which the guests had also requested, I explained its historical background and highlights during lunch, and they were satisfied to visit it on their own. Since the guests were particularly interested in Ryoan-ji, I explained it in detail. In the end, I am glad that I was able to take the guests to Ryoan-ji and help them gain at least some understanding of Japanese culture rooted in Zen.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto Station～Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 2BusNijojo-mae～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 3BusWaratenjin-mae～Ryoanji-mae230JPY
    Total720JPY

    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 !

    Request Booking

    Aug 4, 2026
    Elie_S
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Wonderful and informative walking tour with Michi
    We had a lovely…

    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.…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizudera & Kyoto Station

    Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizudera & Kyoto Station

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Hotel Vischio Kyoto by Granvia
    • 12:30 Kiyomizudera (500) by taxi
    • Sannenzaka by walking
    • Yasaka-no-to by walking
    • 15:20 Kinkakuji (500) by taxi
    • 16:30 Bamboo grove by taxi
    • 17:50 Fushimi inari (0) by JR train
    • 19:00 Kyoto Station by JR train
    • End of the tour

    What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The departure time was ultimately changed from 10:30 to 12:00. A travel agency was involved between [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) and the guests, and I communicated directly with the guests on the day of the tour. The guests were visiting from Asia. They were a family who loved photography, striking poses here and there and taking many photos. They were more interested in food than in crafts, so I recommended various things to sample, and they seemed to really like Ochanokosaisai, purchasing quite a lot of it. We completed the entire itinerary, but with all the shopping, photo-taking, and ice cream along the way, the guests had no sense of time at all, and the tour ended up running one hour over. Still, I was glad they enjoyed it.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSaga-Arashiyama～Inari240JPY
    Section 2TrainInari～Kyoto150JPY
    Total390JPY

    Tour Report by Kazz

    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!

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    Aug 27, 2026
    M6034YWthomasm
    Worth it
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    The day went by so quickly, a…

    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Awesome experience
    Tour guide Kazz was great. Very informative and showed…

    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…

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:50 Meet　10:13 Depart Yumoto Nakajuku by bus　via Motohakone　Arrive Hakone Sekisho-ato 11:05　Hakone Checkpoint　Old Tokaido cedar avenue　After Maruyama Bussan　13:10 Pirate ship from Hakone Port　13:50 Togendai　By ropeway　via Owakudani　Depart Sounzan 15:03 cable car　via Gora, Arrive Hakone Yumoto 16:08　Walk to hotel, after picking up luggage 17:05 Depart Hakone Yumoto by bus, Arrive Odawara 17:25　After guiding to the Shinkansen platform 17:35　Dismissal　The guest, after dining, 19+:35 to Kyoto by Kodama

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests had traveled to many places around the world, but Japan was their first destination in Asia. They had studied a great deal using Japanese guidebooks. In that sense, Hakone was an ideal place from both a historical and natural perspective, and they enjoyed it very much. In particular, they were delighted by the marquetry (yosegi-zaiku) presentation at a local specialty shop, and they purchased souvenirs. It was a shame that only a small part of the foothills of Mount Fuji was visible, but I told them the legends of Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi, and they also listened with great interest to talks about Shinto, Buddhism, the Japanese way of life, and kanji, so we spent a pleasant day together. After consulting with the guests and receiving their consent, we skipped lunch to focus on sightseeing.

    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!!
    dummy

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    Aug 24, 2026
    Deb_K
    Viator review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Well organised tour
    Hiro is obviously an experienced guide.…

    Aug 6, 2026
    Marcus_J
    Viator review: Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing day with…
    Had an amazing day with Hiro.…

    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…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Shitennoji Temple

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Shitennoji Temple

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meeting point: Country Yard Shin-Osaka Station
    • 10:15 Sightseeing ①: Osaka Castle
    • 11:30 Sightseeing ②: Dotonbori
    • 12:30 Sightseeing ③: Shitennoji Temple
    • 13:30 Dismissal: Namba

    Title: What Can You See on a 4-Hour Private Tour of Osaka? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, sightseeing in Japan. This was my first time guiding a group visiting on consecutive days. Most of the prior communication and itinerary discussion was handled through a travel agency. As it was their first visit to Japan, they requested that I "carefully select and guide them through the highlights of Osaka," so we finalized the route as Osaka Castle → Dotonbori → Shitennoji Temple. On the day of the tour, the sunshine was strong and the weather felt like early summer, but the air was dry and it was comfortable in the shade. When I actually met the guests, I found that they had a deep interest in Japanese culture and history and seemed to have studied quite a lot in advance. One of the guests had also been studying Japanese and understood the language fairly well. At Osaka Castle I explained Japanese society during the samurai era, at Dotonbori the common culture and food culture of Osaka as a "merchant city," and at Shitennoji Temple the relationship between the Japanese people and Buddhism since ancient times. The guests listened to my explanations with great interest and asked many questions. Initially, the plan was to use trains and subways for the entire route, but since one of the guests was a little tired in the latter half, we used a taxi for part of the way. Although it was the shortest "4-hour course," it turned out to be a very fulfilling tour, and the guests seemed satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShin-Osaka～Osakajokoen200JPY
    Section 2TrainOsakajokoen～Nipponbashi310JPY
    Total510JPY

    Tour Report by Nori

    Hi, everyone! I’m Norifumi Kamon, a government registered guide interpreter. Please call me “Nori”, or “Kamon-san”.
    Let me introdece myself. I was born on April 17th in 1952 in Miyazaki prefecture in Kyushu island. I used to be an English teacher of Osaka Prefectural high school. When I retired from a teacher ten years ago, I decided to get a professional guide license. I wanted to play a role of the bridge between Japanese people and the people from all over the world as a second life of mine. After two years efforts, I finally got the guide license. Since then, I have guided several handreds of foreign people mainly in Kyoto and Nara for about five years except Corona Pandemic period. Almost all the tourists were deeply impressed by the beauty of nature, traditoin, culture, and art of Japan. I can surely help you enjoy and be satisfied with the sightseeing in Japan. And I’m looking forward to seeing you soon.

    Request Booking

    Aug 10, 2026
    Paul_H
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kind and knowledgeable guide – highly recommended
    Nori communicated…

    Apr 9, 2026
    Ron_W
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We saw so much in the…
    We saw so much in the…

    Mar 24, 2026
    zackn719
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Knowledgeable guide and a great tour
    We did our private tour with…

    Oct 20, 2025
    66speech
    Highlights of Kyoto.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience with Nori. Nori exceeded our expectations with…

  • Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day

    Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day

    Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.9:00 Meet up @ Hyatt Regency
    • 2.9:50 @ Nezu Shrine
    • 3.10:40 @ Snake Road
    • 4.11:20 @ Yanaka Ginza
    • 5.12:00 @ Edo Taito Traditional Crafts Museum
    • 6.12:50 Lunch @ Nishi-Asakusa Monja Shichigosan
    • 7.13:50 @ Kappabashi Kitchen Town
    • 8.15:00 Disband @ Nishi-Shinjuku Station

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Yanaka and Asakusa Like in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The tour was originally planned as a Tsukiji food and culture course, but since the guests preferred to avoid crowds and waiting in lines, and were interested in nature, crafts, and local food, we decided to skip Tsukiji and instead visit Nezu Shrine, Yanaka Ginza, and West Asakusa. At Nezu Shrine, the guests enjoyed watching the carp and turtles in the pond and remarked on the beauty of the shrine's carvings. They bought some candy at a Kintaro-ame candy shop and ate taiyaki in Nezu, saying it was very sweet and delicious. On Snake Road (Hebi-michi), some shops were not yet open, but the guests seemed to love the atmosphere. At Yanaka Ginza, they tried Genki menchi-katsu and said it was delicious. Afterward, we went to West Asakusa, where we viewed traditional crafts at the Edo Taito Traditional Crafts Museum before enjoying okonomiyaki and fried rice. Then, at Kappabashi, one of the guests found a shop they liked and purchased Japanese-patterned pants. They seemed to like all of the shop's items, including the bags and jeans. At Kappabashi, we also enjoyed visiting specialty shops for knives, food samples, Edo Kiriko cut glass, and confectionery molds before heading back. We parted ways at Nishi-Shinjuku Station. The weather was very nice, and I believe the guests had a wonderful time.

    Click here for more details: Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNishi-Shinjuku～Nezu252JPY
    Section 2TrainNippori～Akihabara167JPY
    Section 3TrainAkihabara～Asakusa210JPY
    Section 4SubwayTawaramachi～Nishi-Shinjuku252JPY
    Total881JPY

    Tour Report by FUMIKO

    Hello, I am Fumiko, an English-speaking Tourist Guide. I have been guiding foreign visitors science 2016. Please let me know your bucket lists whiles you are staying in Japan and what you are interested in. I will make the best plan for you. This is an once in a lifetime experience for you. As for myself, I love traveling, meeting people, eating local food, drinking, history, and art. I am learning Ikebana, traditional Japanese-style flower arrangement, and tea ceremony. I also love sports, especially tennis. I like children, so I can teach them some origami, folding paper. I am looking forward to hearing from you and seeing you in Japan.

    Request Booking

    Jul 27, 2026
    zyarisa
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko tour good vibes only
    Mrs. fumiko was very…

    Jul 23, 2026
    734mortenp
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Nice tour of Tokyo
    Don’t visit Tokyo without a guide! You’ll…

    Jul 10, 2026
    Jessica_A
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko was wonderful. …
    Fumiko was wonderful. You can…

    Jun 28, 2026
    alistairn2016
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fumiko is a great tour guide – informative, friendly and very well…

  • Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at RIHGA GRAN Kyoto
    • 10:00 Tenryu-ji Garden〜Arashiyama Bamboo Grove〜Nonomiya Shrine
    • 12:00 Lunch at Ukiya Pontocho Main Store
    • 12:45 Pontocho〜Gion Hanamikoji〜Yasui Konpiragu
    • 13:20 Yasaka Pagoda〜Yasaka Koshindo〜Sannenzaka
    • 13:45 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 15:15 Sanjusangendo
    • 16:10 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 17:00 Disband at the entrance of Fushimi Inari Taisha

    What Is a Private One-Day Walking Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today I guided guests visiting from Europe. The temperature did not rise very much and it was cloudy, making it a very convenient day for walking around. When we visited Arashiyama, there were not yet many tourists, so the guests were pleased to be able to stroll leisurely. Since the lunch spot was in Pontocho, we reviewed the evening Gion tour they had joined two days earlier by walking from Pontocho to the Kabuki theater and Hanamikoji, and then headed to Yasui Konpiragu Shrine. We went to Kiyomizu-dera Temple by the usual route, and I felt it was a little less crowded than usual. From Sanjusangendo we headed to Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, where the guests took many photos at the Senbon Torii. I believe they enjoyed themselves.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 2TrainArashiyama～Randen Tenjingawa250JPY
    Section 3SubwayUzumasa Tenjingawa～Sanjo Keihan260JPY
    Section 4BusGojozaka～Higashiyama Shichijo230JPY
    Section 5TrainShichijo～Fushimi Inari170JPY
    Total1,150JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • １．11:00　Meet up ＠Hotel Nishi-Shinjuku Premier
    • ２．11:30　＠Ginza (Mitsukoshi underground food hall, Kyukyodo, Wako, Kimuraya)
    • ３．12:20　＠Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • ４．13:20　＠Meiji Shrine + Gyoen Garden
    • ５．14:45　Shibuya
    • ６．15:15　Disband ＠Pokemon Center in Shibuya PARCO

    What's a Private Family Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Ginza, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. Another member of the group had been staying in Japan for about a month for a study program, and it seemed the whole group would reunite during this trip, so they kept in touch via video calls even during the tour. After Tokyo, they planned to visit Kyoto and Osaka as well. They compared the cleanliness of the Tokyo subway to their local subway back home, saying they were impressed, remarking that their own subway smelled of sewage whenever wind blew through the station. At the basement food hall of a department store in Ginza, they were fascinated by the wide variety of delicious-looking foods. At Meiji Shrine, since they expressed interest in Japanese gardens, we also visited the inner garden. The irises were only about twenty percent in bloom, but the water lilies blooming in the pond stood out beautifully against the blue sky, and they took many photos with that lovely scenery as a backdrop. We were also able to reach the water of Kiyomasa's Well smoothly without any wait. The group had arrived in Japan early that morning and started the tour without being able to check into their accommodation, so they became somewhat tired in the latter half. We decided to end the tour in Shibuya, and after they enjoyed crossing the scramble intersection, at the strong request of one of the guests who was a big Pokémon fan, we headed to the Pokémon Center inside Shibuya PARCO, where we said goodbye.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line Nishi-Shinjuku Station～Ginza Line Ginza Station700JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Yurakucho Line Ginza-itchome Station～Sakuradamon Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Nijubashimae Station～Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Meiji-jingumae Station～Shibuya Station0JPY
    Total700JPY

    Tour Report by Noripy

    Hello, I’m Noripy.
    I am a lively woman in my 60s who loves having fun. My charm lies in my bright and approachable personality. Drawing on over 30 years of international experience, I began working as a tour guide in 2023. I have conducted over 100 tours annually, ensuring that my clients enjoy Tokyo and its surrounding areas. I have received high praise from a wide range of customers, from teenagers to people in their 80s. I cater to solo travelers, couples, newlyweds, families, and groups of up to about 10 people. Living in the heart of the city, I actively guide tours primarily in Tokyo. In addition to being certified in English, one of my strengths is being able to communicate effectively in Spanish as well.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you all in Tokyo!

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    Jul 3, 2026
    Jody D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from Yokohama
    Best Post cruise tour ever
    It was…

    June 19, 2026
    Alec T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo in 4 hours
    Noripy was excellent! She guided us through…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Hema_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely experience. My…
    Lovely experience. My guide was an absolutely adorable lady…

    Jun 3, 2026
    Sara B
    Tokyo walking tour with Noripy. A+!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Noripy gave a 5/5 tour!…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel 8:45 ~ Hamamatsucho 9:23 Kyu Shiba Rikyu ~ Zojoji Temple 10:40 ~ Meiji Shrine 12:00 ~ Lunch 13:00 ~ Takeshita Street 14:00 ~ Dismissal 14:50

    What Are Some Less-Crowded Tokyo Sights for a Repeat Visitor? A Licensed Guide's Private Tour Report I guided the guests again today, following the previous day. They are staying in Tokyo from mid-May to early June, and then heading to the Kansai region afterward. My assignment was for two days around the tenth day of their stay, so in advance I emailed to ask which places they had already visited so we could avoid overlaps, but the response was unclear. After a while, I received a reply saying they had already been to the places I had suggested. There were several occasions where I had to hurriedly change the course. When guests have just arrived in Japan, they haven't been anywhere yet, so they are less likely to go on their own even if you suggest a place, but after ten days they can get around by themselves. I confirmed repeatedly and guided them to places they said they had not yet visited. Today, Gotokuji Temple was originally the first stop, but since they had already been there, we discussed it and added the Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden and Zojoji Temple. They were deeply moved, saying they had never visited a Japanese garden before and had never seen such a beautiful place. At Zojoji Temple, following the question about Jizo Bosatsu they had asked the previous day, I also talked about mizuko kuyo (memorial services for children). Since it is the family temple of the Tokugawa shogunate, I was able to talk about the shoguns and daimyo in relation to the garden as well. As I had explained the syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism at Asakusa the previous day, at Meiji Shrine they listened with interest to the history, the story of Emperor Meiji and his consort, and waka poetry. On Takeshita Street they enjoyed a plush toy shop, an animal cafe, and Korean food. Since we started early both yesterday and today, I ended a little earlier today to make up for it (by about ten minutes). I handed them a map of Omotesando and we said our goodbyes.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMinami-Senju～Hamamatsucho230JPY
    Section 2SubwayKamiyacho～Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Total410JPY

    Tour Report by Sally

    Hello, I’m Hizuru.
    I have a passion for sharing my knowledge and love for Japan with visitors from all over the world.
    After teaching English and Japanese to Elementary school and Junior high school students for about 15
    years, I got the National License of Guide and Interpreter in 2014 which allowed me to officially guide
    tourists around Japan.
    I have guided many tourists around Tokyo and its vicinities, helping them to discover the hidden gems of the
    city and learn about its rich history and traditions.
    Whether you’re interested in visiting historical landmarks, trying delicious Japanese cuisine, or experiencing
    the vibrant pop culture scene, I can tailor a tour suit your interests.
    My experience as a teacher greatly helped me in this role as I was able to efficiently communicate and engage
    with people from different backgrounds and cultures.
    I am dedicated to providing an unforgettable and insightful experience for all my guests.
    I look forward to welcoming you to in and around Tokyo and sharing the wonders of Japan with you.

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    Oct 14, 2025
    vanessajK6787GS
    Great day out and about in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hizuru was an absolute delight.…

    May 23, 2025
    Inspire25413313092
    Tokyo walking tour 2025
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sally did a great job putting together a…

    May 3, 2025
    davidfZ3537PI
    Great tour with Hizuru!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great private tour with Hizuru! Prior to the…

    Apr 17, 2025
    Sharon_F
    Sampling of everything in one day!
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great sampling of lots of different…