Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Ginkaku-ji Temple

    Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Ginkaku-ji Temple

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 Meeting: Rin Niomon
    • 08:35 Sightseeing ①: Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 09:00 Break: Ninenzaka・Café
    • 10:20 Sightseeing ②: Kennin-ji Temple
    • 12:00 Sightseeing ③: Ginkaku-ji Temple
    • 13:00 Lunch: Ginkaku-ji・Approach
    • 14:00 Dismissal: JR Kyoto Station

    What Is a 6-Hour Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kiyomizu-dera, Kennin-ji, and Ginkaku-ji The guests were visiting Japan from North America for sightseeing. The prior contact and itinerary planning were arranged in advance with one of the guests. From the early stages of communication and coordination, their preferences for destinations were very clear, and we finalized the route as "Kiyomizu-dera ⇒ Kennin-ji ⇒ Ginkaku-ji." When creating the itinerary, I took into account the crowds at Kiyomizu-dera and the fact that Ginkaku-ji is located somewhat far away. Since it was a "6-hour course" with only three destinations, I made sure to include rest breaks in between so we could go at a relaxed pace. Also, since this route is not easy to navigate by train or subway, all transportation was done by bus. On the day of the tour, the temperature was low for late May, cool enough to feel a bit chilly at times, but this made for comfortable weather conditions for a walking tour. In the morning, when I actually met the guests at the accommodation, I learned that some care would be needed for walking and moving around. Even so, the guests said, "I can walk normally, so it's fine," and we set off in good spirits. The guests had a strong interest in Japanese culture and seemed to have studied quite a lot beforehand, so it appeared they understood nearly 100% of my explanations. At each place we visited, conversations about Japanese religion, history, and culture flowed lively, and at Kennin-ji we took our time so they could also experience meditation (zazen). In the afternoon, the guests expressed a wish to "visit Arashiyama on our own," so I recommended the JR line as the fastest way to get there, and we said goodbye at JR Kyoto Station. With almost no trouble at all, it turned out to be a fulfilling tour. Note regarding the admission fee for Kennin-ji: At Kennin-ji, guides are also required to pay admission, and I paid 800 yen, but I carelessly failed to obtain a receipt. I attached the ticket stub, but as it does not serve as proof, I am withdrawing this claim.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHigashiyama Niomon～Gojozaka230JPY
    Section 2BusGion～Ginkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 3BusGinkakuji-michi～Kyoto230JPY
    Total690JPY

    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.

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    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Ginza & Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo in One Day: Ginza & Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at hotel
    • 10:00-11:00 Ginza sightseeing
    • 11:00-13:00 Sensoji Temple
    • 13:00-15:00 Travel from Sensoji Temple, via Akihabara to Tsukiji　Tsukiji sightseeing, lunch
    • 15:10-16:30. Visit Meiji Shrine, disband

    Can You Do a 6-Hour Private Tour of Tokyo Covering Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, and Tsukiji? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Despite sending several emails, I received no response, and only after [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) kindly followed up did we finally decide to change the meeting point from Tokyo Station to the Hotel. I had thought that coordinating opinions within a larger group might be quite difficult, but when I met them on the day, the answer was "we don't know where we'd like to go." So for the time being I included the representative sights of Senso-ji Temple and Meiji Shrine, and although the schedule was tight, I also added Tsukiji, which they apparently wanted to visit. As it turned out, they had actually received a recommendation for a Tsukiji shop from a friend, and if they had told me sooner I could have put it at the very start. Although we did not manage to fit everything within the 6 hours, I was relieved that we were able to complete the visits.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGinza～Asakusa209JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa～Suehirocho178JPY
    Section 3TrainAkihabara～Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 4TrainTsukiji～Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Total774JPY

    Tour Report by Kappa

    Thank you for your entry in this tour. Nice to meet you in this mail.
    Your tour guide Kappa is my nickname. Kappa is a traditional, imaginary creature who came into being in Japan over 300 years ago. She is good at swimming, like me, for I like swimming. I would like to make our tour operated smoothly as Kappa does when she swims in the river or pond. It is my pleasure to introduce many aspects in our tour, especially cooking, for it is my hobby and I went to the professional cooking and SAKE school, respectively. If you have any questions or requests about Japanese cooking, of course our tour, I am very delighted to answer to you anytime!

    Request Booking

    Jul 30, 2025
    Michael_R
    Customized Hakone tour
    Viator review: Hakone 8 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Kappa-san, modified the typical Hakone tour…

    May 18, 2025
    Leigh_M
    Kappa, our guide met us…
    Viator review: Kamakura 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kappa, our guide met us at the…

    May 4, 2025
    panderhigs
    Kappa A+ Guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kappa was an amazing guide who created a thorough…

    May 4, 2025
    O9621SBscottp
    Kappa is a wonderful tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I were treated…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Matsuchiyama Shoden & Kappabashi Kitchenware Street

    Tokyo in One Day: Matsuchiyama Shoden & Kappabashi Kitchenware Street

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet @Hotel
    • 10:15 Matsuchiyama Shoden
    • Imado Shrine
    • Asakusa
    • 13:00 Lunch @Sansada
    • 14:00 Kappabashi Kitchenware Street
    • 15:50 Disband @Ueno Park

    What Can You See on a Private Tour of Asakusa and Kappabashi in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. At their request, they left everything up to me except for Imado Shrine, so I guided them around the Asakusa area including Imado Shrine, as well as the Kappabashi Kitchen Town. When we met, they told me they had learned about Imado Shrine through social media. They also knew about Gotokuji Temple, another birthplace of the maneki-neko (beckoning cat), but chose Imado Shrine because Gotokuji was farther away. Since arriving in Japan, the guests had been getting around by taxi and did not have an IC card, so they purchased a one-day subway pass and used public transportation on the day of the tour. While viewing the hydrangeas beginning to bloom in Sumida Park, I guided them to Matsuchiyama Shoden and Imado Shrine. They were delighted that this part of Asakusa had hardly any tourists and was quiet and relaxing. At Matsuchiyama Shoden they purchased a goshuincho (stamp book) and collected temple stamps throughout the tour. After visiting Asakusa Shrine and Sensoji Temple, we had lunch and walked to the Kappabashi Kitchen Town. There they bought an apron with a maneki-neko design and personalized chopsticks. Since the personalized chopsticks would take time to make, they arranged to have them shipped to their hotel. At Kappabashi Kitchen Town, one of the guests took a liking to the tanuki (raccoon dog) figurines rather than the kappa, and took photos of them here and there. I had never noticed before, but once I paid attention, there were tanuki figurines all over the place. Because they took their time shopping, we ran short on time, so I saw them off before the antique market at Ueno Park, which had been planned as our final stop, and we parted ways. The guests had apparently signed up for various experience tours on their own, but they said they had wanted to join a tour like this one that lets them visit places they couldn't reach by themselves, and they were very pleased with this tour, which made me happy. I hope they enjoy the rest of their trip in Japan.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassKokkai-gijidomae～Asakusa700JPY
    Section 2SubwayTawaramachi～Ueno0JPY
    Total700JPY

    Tour Report by Yoko

    I’m Yoko Kusumoto, a government lisenced English-speaking guide.
    I have been living in Tokyo for more than 20 years, and it’s my pleasure to show you around Tokyo. I recommend Meiji Shrine and Asakusa if you are first time in Japan. I also recommend off-the-beaton path spots like Fukagawa Fudodo and Gotokuji Temple(lucky cat temple).
    I was born and brought up in Kamakura, where the first shogun’s government was established. It will be my pleasure to introduce you my hometown as well.

    I live with my husband and one teenage son.
    I like traveling, flowers, sewing, quilting, scrapbooking, and exploring Tokyo.

    I’m looking forward to hearing from you soon.

    Request Booking

    Jun 2, 2026
    ericahT6840AD
    Awesome!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our day with Yoko was great! She took us to some…

    May 20, 2026
    CharKris17
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Walking Tour
    We did a six-hour walking tour of Tokyo with…

    May 3, 2026
    jefftK1794VZ
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fantastic day exploring Tokyo
    This was our first time visiting Tokyo and…

    Oct 23, 2025
    Y6401BOshaunam
    Knowledgable, engaging guide Yoko Kusmoto made day of Tokyo history, architecture and insights exceptional. le.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tochomae Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Tochomae Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meeting place: Hilton Tokyo
    • 9:40 Depart Tochomae Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • Kuramae Station
    • (Toei Subway Asakusa Line)
    • 10:40 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 11:40 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 12:00 Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Outer Market
    • Tsukiji Uogashi
    • 13:00 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 13:15 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 14:15 Depart Nijubashimae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 14:30 Arrive Hibiya Station
    • Hibiya Lunch: Tokyo Midtown Hibiya
    • 15:15 Depart Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 15:30 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • 16:20 Depart Harajuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 16:30 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 17:00 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • Shinjuku Station
    • Shinjuku-nishiguchi Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 17:30 Tochomae Station
    • 17:30 Disband: Tochomae Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, and the Imperial Palace The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They had arrived at Haneda Airport the previous afternoon via a connecting flight, then taken a taxi to their hotel. The purpose of this visit to Japan was a cruise around Japan departing from Yokohama Port, with only two days spent in Tokyo. They planned to fly home from the cruise's final port of call in Asia. The night before, they had strolled around the hotel area and enjoyed grilled meat. It was overcast, but we were able to carry out the tour without any rain. First, we headed to Asakusa. It was extremely crowded, making it difficult to move forward. We started from in front of the Kaminarimon Gate. I explained "Sensoji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo," "what the five-story pagoda is for," "what Buddhism is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." We took commemorative photos in front of the Kaminarimon Gate. There were questions such as "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?" and "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people follow?" Next, we went to the Tsukiji Market. I explained "the history of the fish market since the Edo period" and "the difference between the Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market." There were also questions like "Why are there so many people here?" and "Do all people in Tokyo come here to buy fish?" We strolled at a leisurely pace and bought and sampled "strawberry mochi" and "fried sweet potato." We then moved to the Imperial Palace and strolled through the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. There was a question, "When is the best time to see the cherry blossoms?" I explained "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 "Are there no more samurai?" and "Does the current Emperor of Japan hold political power?" Since the guests said they wanted to have lunch somewhere, we went to Tokyo Midtown Hibiya. The guests had varying preferences regarding food, so in the end we entered a soba restaurant, where each person chose according to their own taste. We moved to Harajuku and visited Meiji Shrine. I explained "about Shinto," "about the torii gate," "about Emperor Meiji," and "why wine barrels are displayed there." There were also questions such as "What kind of teachings does Shinto have?", "When did Shinto originate?", and "How many shrines are there in Japan?" We went to Shibuya. First, we took photos at the Scramble Crossing. There was a question, "Why do so many people gather here?" We also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. There were comments and questions such as "It's strange that there is no trash on the streets," "Doesn't anyone throw trash on the streets?", and "I rode the subway for the first time, and it was very comfortable and convenient." Since there was a request to be taken back to the hotel, I saw them off at Tochomae Station, where we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTochomae Station～Asakusa Station272JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa Station～Tsukiji Station209JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukiji Station～Otemachi Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijubashimae Station～Hibiya Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwayHibiya Station～Meiji-jingumae Station178JPY
    Section 6TrainHarajuku Station～Shibuya Station146JPY
    Section 7TrainShibuya Station～Shinjuku Station167JPY
    Section 8SubwayShinjuku-nishiguchi Station～Tochomae Station178JPY
    Total1,506JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    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.

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. Meeting 8:30 @ Nagoya Port Garden Pier (The scheduled meeting time was 9:00, but since the guests disembarked early, the tour started 30 minutes earlier)
    • 2. Move to Nagoya Castle and view Honmaru Palace and the area around the castle keep (8:30-10:10)・・From Nagoya Port to Nagoya Castle, travel by subway
    • 3. Move to the Oasis 21 area and view the shopping area (10:10-11:10)・・From Nagoya Castle to the Oasis 21 area (near Sakae Station), travel by subway
    • 4. Move to Atsuta Shrine and view the main shrine, treasure hall, and Kusanagi Hall (11:10-12:20)・・From the Oasis 21 area to Atsuta Shrine, travel by subway
    • 5. Return to Nagoya Port Garden Pier and disband at 13:00 (12:20-13:00)・・From Atsuta Shrine to Nagoya Port Garden Pier, travel by subway

    Title: What's a Half-Day Private Tour of Nagoya Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. As it was a half-day tour, I focused on guiding them around two of Nagoya's most representative sites, Nagoya Castle and Atsuta Shrine. The tour was originally scheduled to begin at 9:00, but since I had arrived early and was waiting on site, the guests came to the meeting point at 8:30, so we moved the start time forward and began at 8:30. To make things comfortable, we avoided using stairs at subway stations as much as possible and used elevators or escalators instead. Because of this, transfers at each location took a little extra time, and we returned to the starting point at the Port of Nagoya at 13:00. The tour ended up taking about 30 minutes longer than planned, but I believe the guests were satisfied. They mentioned that they would like to come back to Japan and take their time sightseeing again.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNagoyako Station～Nagoyajo Station270JPY
    Section 2SubwayNagoyajo Station～Sakae Station210JPY
    Section 3SubwaySakae Station～Atsuta Jingu Nishi Station240JPY
    Section 4SubwayAtsuta Jingu Nishi Station～Nagoyako Station270JPY
    Total990JPY

    Tour Report by Todd

    Hello, guests of JGA tours, I’m Takao (Todd) Miura, a national licensed guide of Japan.
    I have experiences as a professional guide over 5 years. The themes in which I’m well versed include castles, Japaneses landscape gardens, museums, festivals, and traditinal Japanese arts and crafts.
    Nagoya City and Aichi Prefecture, where I live, have many attractive sites to visit. I would like to introduce you to the most popular sites and spots in this area.
    I really wish to have a very nice time with you as a guide of your tour in Nagoya and Aichi Prefecture.

    Request Booking

    Feb 16, 2026
    B9190RXcolleenm
    The Nagoya walking tour was great!
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Todd was the perfect…

    Oct 2, 2025
    Jeffrey_B
    Nagoya with Todd Miura
    Viator review: Nagoya / Aichi Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    A great 4 hour…

    Sep 17, 2025
    sjhppy
    Todd Was A Fabulous Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    I highly recommend Todd! He…

    Jul 22, 2025
    guelphturfgrassinstu
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    We enjoyed this tour with a knowledgeable guide. Todd shared…

  • Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour

    Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour

    Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:45 Hotel – 9:20 Honmura District (visit approximately 8 locations including the Art House Project) – 11:20 Lunch – 13:20 Benesse House Museum – 15:30 Chichu Art Museum – 17:10 Miyanoura Port, Naoshima Onsen inspection – 18:30 Arrival at Hibi no Yado Hinemosu (Uno)

    The guests were visitors from Europe. From the very beginning, it was a series of surprises. Originally the guests had planned to stay at a hotel in Uno, then changed to a hotel in Naoshima, and then changed again to a hotel in Uno, so there was even a possibility that we might not have been able to meet each other if things had gone slightly differently. Initially the guests had requested rental bicycles, and although the weather was fine on the day and I informed them that bicycles were available, they changed their preference to walking instead. Then, when I suggested that the Chichu Art Museum, which we had almost given up on, might still be bookable on the same day, a reservation was made right there on a smartphone, and we were able to secure a 3:30 slot, which was truly delightful. I felt the importance of not giving up and giving things a try. The guests were deeply impressed by the group of artworks in the Honmura district. After successfully viewing both the Benesse House Museum and the Chichu Art Museum, the guests boldly decided to hike back from the Chichu Art Museum all the way to Miyanoura Port, so we walked through the mountains. The guests had remarkable physical strength and energy, which was overwhelming. The hike was wonderful, allowing us to enjoy scenery that we would not have noticed from the bus. And on our way back, we were able to raise a toast to celebrate the success of the day's tour.

    Click here for more details: Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusMiyaura～Honmura300JPY
    Section 2BusHonmura～Benesse House Museum300JPY
    Total600JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

    My name is Susumu Hiramatsu. I am a national government licensed guide interpreter. I became a guide interpreter in 1992. My educational background started with a BA in law, then an MA in English language education, and completed a doctoral course without a degree in English language teaching. My occupational career began with a bank officer, then shifted to a translation and interpretation company, finally became a freelance translator, interpreter, and college teacher. I handle conference interpretation, namely simultaneous interpretation. As for the guide interpreter, my interest covers wide areas including politics and business, but I deem cultural aspects to be fundamental. I am always encouraging myself to be filled with Japanese hospitality.

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    Jun 20, 2025
    NinjaTwins2013
    Kurashiki walking tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kurashiki Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We enjoyed our walking tour of Kurashiki. Our guide…

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

    Osaka in Half a Day: Shitennoji Temple & Osaka Castle

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:30 Hotel meet & briefing
    • 11:50 Shitennoji Temple
    • 13:30 Osaka Castle
    • 14:50 Umeda coffee break
    • 15:30 Disband at the Umeda Sky Building 39th floor ticket counter

    Can You Do a Private One-Day Tour of Osaka in the Rain? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shitennoji, Osaka Castle, and Umeda Sky Building On what was the last day in Japan, the guests remained enthusiastic about the tour despite the rain and showed no signs of fatigue. The guests were visiting from Asia. At the first stop, Shitennoji, they climbed the five-story pagoda and were very interested in the wall paintings of the Kondo (Main Hall) and Kodo (Lecture Hall), asking detailed questions. They noted that the descriptions were similar to those found in textbooks in their home region, but found the slight differences fascinating. I had also wanted to show them the Pure Land garden, but since our time at Osaka Castle was becoming limited, I consulted with the guests and we skipped it. Even on the subway, they took an interest in station names containing terms like "○○-chome" and "○○-bashi (bridge)." At Osaka Castle, they asked about Hideyoshi's rise to power from humble origins, the class system of that era, and what society was like before the Warring States period. On the way to the Umeda Sky Building, they asked about vegetarian restaurants, so I sent them information on several places. By the time we arrived at the Sky Building, we had run quite a bit over time, so we saw the see-through escalator and parted ways at the souvenir shop.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Station～Tanimachi 4-chome190JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Umeda240JPY
    Total430JPY

    Tour Report by Kelly

    Hi, everyone! Nice meeting you! I’m Yoshimi, Japan National Licenced Tour Guide.
    I live in Osaka city with my family, working for overseas trade.
    I love traveling abroad as well as in Japan regardless urban area or countryside.
    So interested in interacting with you through attractive sightseeing spots around Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, etc.
    Osaka is famous as exciting big city and delicious food, Kyoto and Nara boast more than 1000years history with lots of UNESCO world heritage site.
    I also would like to introduce Japanese culture such as Sa-do or tea ceremony, Ka-do, or flower arrangement, Kimono wearing.
    What intrigue you in Japan? Depending on your interest, I’m able to recommend anything, anywhere.
    Please let me know what kind of thing you’d like to see or experience.
    Really looking forward to seeing you soon!

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    Jun 5, 2025
    annandjamesa2025
    Great Half Day tour in Osaka with Kelly
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kelly was a great…

    May 25, 2025
    vibhutit2025
    Enjoyed
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The guide was super friendly and loving. I enjoyed my time…

    Apr 1, 2025
    S2203HDjoanneh
    Guided tour Osaka
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Today, Kelly was our guide in Osaka, and she…

  • Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • Depart Nagoya Port 9:00→Nagoya Castle 9:40-11:30→Atsuta Shrine 12:00-12:30→Arrive Nagoya Port 13:00

    What's a Private Day Tour of Nagoya Castle and Atsuta Shrine Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests had requested the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology and Nagoya Castle, but since most museums were closed on Monday, I consulted with the guests and we visited Nagoya Castle and Atsuta Shrine instead. Because the guests had different food preferences, I had them check the menus at Kinshachi Yokocho near Nagoya Castle, and we went into Yabaton, where both found something they wanted to eat and were very satisfied. At Atsuta Shrine, it was the first time the guests had entered a shrine with a guide, and they experienced how to purify their hands and how to pray. A wedding ceremony happened to be taking place, which delighted them.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNagoya Port～Nagoya Castle270JPY
    Section 2SubwayNagoya Castle～Atsuta Shrine West240JPY
    Section 3SubwayAtsuta Shrine West～Nagoya Port270JPY
    Total780JPY

    Tour Report by Elvis

    I am good at factory tours (sake, food, etc.), restaurants and entertainments for adult (pub, karaoke, snack bar, etc.).
    I have been to 91 countrires. And I traveled around the world (14 countrires) for three month in 2023.
    I like travel and I prefer vist islands in Japan. I have been to 232 islands in Japan.
    I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter. I am also Certified General Travel Services Manager, and Certified Domestic Tour Conductor.
    I had worked 35 years at Japanese beer company until last year. So, I like drinking very much.

    Welcome to Elvis’s guided tours! With a passion for Japan, I offer you an unforgettable experience exploring Japan. As a guide interpreter fluent in English, I ensure you not only see the sights but also understand the stories behind them.

    My guided tours are tailored to suit your interests, whether you’re intrigued by the ancient history of Japan, captivated by its vibrant culture, or simply want to immerse yourself in its natural beauty. With me, you’ll delve deep into the heart of [location], discovering hidden gems and local secrets that most tourists never experience.

    I bring to life the rich history of [location], narrating its tales of triumphs and tribulations with passion and flair. From the ancient ruins that whisper tales of bygone eras to the modern marvels that define its skyline, each tour is a journey through time, offering you a glimpse into the soul of Japan.

    Beyond history, I also showcase the vibrant culture of Japan, introducing you to its arts, cuisine, and traditions. Whether it’s savoring the flavors of local cuisine, exploring traditional crafts, or immersing yourself in festive celebrations, I ensure you experience the true essence of Japan.

    As a guide interpreter fluent in English, I bridge the gap between cultures, ensuring smooth communication and enriching interactions with locals. Whether you’re bargaining at a bustling market or conversing with a local artisan, I’m there to facilitate meaningful connections that enhance your travel experience.

    My guided tours are not just about sightseeing; they’re about creating lasting memories. I strive to make each tour informative, engaging, and, above all, fun! Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a group, I tailor the experience to suit your preferences, ensuring you leave with a deeper appreciation for Japan.

    So, if you’re ready to embark on a journey of discovery, join me on a guided tour that goes beyond the ordinary. Let me show you the wonders of Japan through the eyes of a passionate guide interpreter. Your adventure awaits!

    Request Booking

    Apr 2, 2026
    Paul_M
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    Fascinating Tour of historic Trail
    We recently completed this…

    Sep 28, 2025
    Colleen_E
    Totally worth the cost! Thanks Elvis!
    Viator review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Elvis was so great!…

    Apr 21, 2025
    E9436SKdrews
    great tour with Elvis
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    My wife and I…

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  • Kyoto: Kinkaku-ji & Ginkaku-ji

    Kyoto: Kinkaku-ji & Ginkaku-ji

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Hotel Grecery Kyoto Sanjyo
    • 10:00 to 10:50 Kinkaku-ji
    • 11:30 to 12:30 Nijo Castle
    • 13:15 to 14:30 Ginkaku-ji
    • 15;15 to 16:15 Nanzen-ji
    • 17:00 Dismissal JR Kyoto Station

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group of four visiting from Europe. In their home region, temperatures rarely exceed 25 degrees even in August. When they had arrived in Tokyo one week earlier, the temperature was over 30 degrees and very hot, but they were delighted that Kyoto today was around 22 degrees, making for a comfortable tour. As some of the guests had a little difficulty walking, the tour proceeded at a slow pace throughout. When boarding buses and the subway, they were very grateful that other passengers actively offered their seats.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKawaramachi Sanjo～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 2BusKinkakuji-michi～Horikawa Marutamachi230JPY
    Section 3BusHorikawa Marutamachi～Ginkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 4BusGinkakuji-michi～Nanzen-ji, Eikando-michi230JPY
    Section 5SubwayKeage～Kyoto260JPY
    Total1,180JPY

    Tour Report by Haru

    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 !!

    Request Booking

    Dec 30, 2024
    shannono1010
    Haru is a Rock Star
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
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    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…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajimaguchi & Atomic Bomb Dome

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajimaguchi & Atomic Bomb Dome

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 07:30 Meet at Sotetsu Fresa Inn
    • 08:00 Move to Miyajimaguchi
    • 08:55 Move to Miyajima
    • 09:05 Miyajima sightseeing
    • 10:55 Move to the Atomic Bomb Dome
    • 11:50 Atomic Bomb Dome & Peace Park
    • 13:30 Disband at Peace Park

    Title: What's a Private Hiroshima Tour with a Licensed Guide Like? A Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan, some of whom were returning for a repeat visit and some of whom were coming to Japan for the first time. One of the guests especially enjoyed traveling and shared photos of extended trips taken to various countries each year. This was a visit to Hiroshima, following stops in Nagoya, Osaka, and Kyoto. I guided them according to the itinerary presented in advance, but partway through the tour of the Peace Memorial Park, the guests requested to finish earlier than planned, as one member of the group was tired and wished to rest at the accommodation. In line with their request, we ended the tour a little earlier than originally scheduled.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi Station420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi Station～Genbaku Dome-mae Station240JPY
    Total660JPY

    Tour Report by Emmy

    Hi, nice to meet you! I am Emmy. I am so honored and happy to be your guide.
    I had been teaching at a local university in Hiroshima. After I got retired in March 2023, I started guiding. I was born and raised in Hiroshima. I love communicating with people all over the world more than anything, so I have been involved in home visit, homestay, volunteer guide for people from foreign countries.
    I always hope that our guests will take away lots of positive energy from Hiroshima, a city that was resilient and revived like a phoenix, in spite of its sad history.
    While realizing customers’ wishes, I will introduce you the beauty of Hiroshima, Miyajima and so on, which are tranquil and peaceful places with a unique charm that cannot be found in big cities.
    I am happy to answer any questions about things Japanese.
    I look forward to meeting you in person soon!!

    Request Booking

    Jul 3, 2026
    715rachnak
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Such a great experience in Hiroshima and Miyajima!
    We…

    Jul 2, 2026
    Janine_P
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Worth the money!
    From the moment we booked our…

    May 7, 2026
    Diane_F
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour and guide
    Our tour guide Emmy was…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Curious613511
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
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