Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11.30 Tsukiji Station platform, 11.50-12.50 Asakusa, 13.10-15.20 Yanaka/Asakura Museum of Sculpture, 15.30-16.20 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, 16.40 Fukagawa Edo Museum, 17.00-18.00 Jimbocho Used Bookstore District

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Yanaka and Tokyo's Old Town Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a visitor from North America who came to Japan to visit a friend, and since the friend had work on weekdays, I served as the guide for the day. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guides lead private tours across Japan, and this full-day private walking tour covered Yanaka and Tokyo's old-town neighborhoods. The guest was very interested in the Asakura Museum of Sculpture in Yanaka. We had lunch at "TAYORI" (https://hagiso.com/tayori/), which calls itself "the postal service of food," and the guest really liked both the restaurant's concept and the meal. At Isetatsu, the guest bought a mini letter set. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, we collected stamps at two locations. Finally, we headed to the Fukagawa Edo Museum, but we did not make it in time for the last admission at 16:30. Since the guest had mentioned a love of books, we quickly went to Jimbocho instead, took a 30-minute break at a cafe, and explored the secondhand bookstore district, visiting Bundodo, Otani Shoten, and Roko Shobo. The guest was scheduled to meet the friend at a Korean restaurant in Kanda at 18:40, so I saw them off to Awajicho and we parted ways. The guest said they would come back to the Fukagawa Edo Museum with the friend on Saturday, so I recommended visiting Kiyosumi Garden together as well.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTsukiji～Asakusa290JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Nippori330JPY
    Section 3SubwaySendagi～Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 4SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)～Kiyosumi-shirakawa180JPY
    Section 5SubwayKiyosumi-shirakawa～Jimbocho180JPY
    Total1,160JPY

    Tour Report by Lance

    I have been working as a tour guide once a week since 2024.
    I grew up in Osaka and studied in Kyoto,
    I have been working for the lvestock division of the national organization of agricultural cooperatives.
    Japan depends on imports for most of its livestock feed ingredients.
    I visited 10 countries on business and stayed in New Orleans working for a subsidiary company for 3 years.
    I visited 10 other countries with my wife for sightseeing.
    I also started writing Haiku, Japanese traditional poem, after retiring.
    One of my favorite is ” Bundled up, you are like a Matryoshka.”
    Looking forward to see you!

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    Sep 24, 2026
    benoitlJ9021HN
    Perfect guide tour in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Lance was very nice…

    Sep 19, 2026
    H1282JBkarinas
    Great tour with Lance from Japan Guide Agency!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Lance our tour…

    Sep 10, 2026
    Silver_F
    amazing 8-hour walking tour with Lance!
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Lance was our…

    Jul 4, 2026
    317roxaneh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great time in Tokyo!
    We had a great day with Lance! He…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0830 The Westin Tokyo (5 min from JR Ebisu Station East Exit) Meet
    • 0900 Tsukiji Outer Market　Kabukiza Theatre　Ginza 4-chome Intersection
    • 1015 Asakusa　Culture Tourism Center 8F Terrace　Nakamise　Senso-ji Temple　Asakusa Shrine
    • 1230 Imperial Palace Otemon Gate　Tatsumi Yagura Turret　Gyoko-dori Avenue　Marunouchi Building Pine Piles　Tokyo Station
    • 1335 Harajuku　Meiji Shrine Visit　Lunch at Forest Terrace
    • 1440 Guide to the entrance of Takeshita Street and disband

    What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like With a Licensed Guide? A Report Covering Tsukiji and Asakusa The guests were visitors from North America on a leisure trip, and this was their first visit to Japan. They had arrived the previous day, walked around the Shibuya area, and had a meal there. They mentioned that they planned to visit Disney Sea the next day, then travel to Kyoto the day after, and go to the Osaka Expo over the weekend. I handed them a Tokyo Travel Guide and explained the possible places to visit later in the day. At Tsukiji, more shops now open on weekends, so conversely more shops are now closed on Wednesdays. Even so, quite a few were open, which pleased the guests. Since it was not long after breakfast, they did not eat anything. In Asakusa, the high humidity from the morning combined with the emerging sunshine made it extremely hot and muggy. They used the folding umbrella they had brought in case of rain as a parasol instead. As I did myself, the guests drank more than two bottles of water to stay hydrated, and we were able to complete the planned course on schedule.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassEbisu～Tsukiji700JPY
    Section 2Free PassGinza～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 3Free PassAsakusa – Nihombashi～Otemachi0JPY
    Section 4Free PassNijubashimae～Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Total700JPY

    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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    Sep 24, 2026
    Leslie_R
    Good tour on first day
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Ted, our guide was…

    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…

  • Kyoto: Kofuku-ji Temple & Kyoto Imperial Palace

    Kyoto: Kofuku-ji Temple & Kyoto Imperial Palace

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 to 11:15 Kofuku-ji Temple
    • 11:15 to 11:45 Nara Park
    • 11:45 to 12:30 Todai-ji Temple
    • 12::45 to 13:30 Lunch at Higashimuki Shopping Street (Pizza-La)
    • 15:00 to 16:00 Kyoto Imperial Palace

    What Is a Private Kyoto and Nara Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from Europe. In their home area the current temperature is around 20 degrees, and even in midsummer it reaches only about 25 degrees, so both Kyoto and Nara, where temperatures approached 35 degrees, left them very tired. Japan's August heat is well known even overseas, so they had come to Japan in late June to early July to avoid it, yet they were quite worn out by the unexpected heat. They mentioned they would be heading to Osaka the next day, so I explained in detail how vast Osaka Castle is and advised them to stay well hydrated.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Kintetsu Nara760JPY
    Section 2BusKintetsu Nara～Todai-ji Daibutsuden / Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Section 3BusKasuga Taisha Honden / Nara Kotsu～Kintetsu Nara Station / Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Section 4TrainKintetsu Nara～Kyoto760JPY
    Section 5SubwayKyoto～Imadegawa260JPY
    Section 6SubwayMarutamachi (Kyoto Municipal)～Kyoto260JPY
    Total2,540JPY

    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 !!

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    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 in One Day: Gion Oyado Kikutani & Nishiki Market entrance

    Kyoto in One Day: Gion Oyado Kikutani & Nishiki Market entrance

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:20 Gion Oyado Kikutani,
    • 09:30 Kiyomizudera (500) by taxi
    • 11:30 Ginkakuji (500) by taxi
    • Lunch（Fumiya）
    • Philosopher’s walk
    • 14:20 Bamboo forest by taxi
    • 15:00 Arashiyama by walking
    • 15:20 Kimono Forest by walking
    • 16:00 Nishiki Market entrance
    • End of the tour

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama and Nishiki Market The guests were visitors from Oceania. They mentioned being quite busy, which unfortunately limited their time. They said they hoped to bring a group of about fifteen to Ginkaku-ji in October. As for shopping, they only bought some furikake seasoning, keeping it very simple. Since they had a small camera of their own and did not seem to need many commemorative photos, I did not take many pictures. At Ogura Pond in Sagano, the lotus flowers had just begun to bloom and were beautiful. They photographed a frog sitting on a lotus leaf and another frog by the small stream at Tenryu-ji Temple. I explained that frogs are considered lucky creatures in Japan. After the tour, they said they wanted to visit Nishiki Market, so I guided them to the entrance of Nishiki Market and we parted ways there.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)～Shijo-Omiya250JPY
    Section 2TrainOmiya (Kyoto)～Karasuma170JPY
    Total420JPY

    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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    Sep 25, 2026
    Marvin_F
    Kazz is an outstanding…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Kazz is an outstanding experiencedand friendly…

    Sep 21, 2026
    Laura_K
    Day in Kyoto with Kazz
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazz was an amazing…

    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…

  • Wakayama in One Day: Ohyunohara & Gas station

    Wakayama in One Day: Ohyunohara & Gas station

    Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage in 1 Day Hike with Licensed Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet guide at Shirahama Station., move to Renta car shop
    • 10:00 Visit Ohyunohara
    • 10:20 Hongu Taisha
    • 11:20 Hayatama Taisha
    • 11:50 Lunch at Hamazushi
    • 13:00 Daimonzaka Walk
    • 13:20 Seiganto-ji
    • 13:40 Nachi Taisha
    • 14:00 Pagoda
    • 14:30 Nachi Waterfall
    • 15:30 Hashigui Iwa Rocks
    • 16:20 Susami Road Station
    • 17:10 Gas station
    • 17:30 Shirahama Station, Renta Car Shop

    What's a Private Day Trip Along the Kumano Kodo from Shirahama Like? A Licensed Guide's Report We had a meeting the day before, and since there were no other guests on the day, I was able to meet the guests right away at Shirahama Station. The rental car procedures took a little time, but we set off without trouble. We traveled from Shirahama to Hongu without stopping. The guests were visitors from Asia, and they mentioned that they both often go hiking. However, since the rainy season had just ended and it had become very hot, we kept the walking to a minimum. At Oyunohara, they were moved by the great torii gate. We visited and I gave explanations at Hayatama, and then had lunch at a conveyor belt sushi restaurant. They both said they loved sushi and sashimi. At Daimonzaka, after taking photos, I moved the car while they walked the path. It was a hot day, but at the waterfall it was cool, and they enjoyed taking photos and having a good time. On the way back we stopped at Hashigui-iwa, which they also seemed to like very much. We took some extra time switching drivers, stopping at the Susami roadside station, and stopping at a gas station, but they told me they were glad to have been able to see so many places in one day. They said that if they have the chance, they would like to walk the ancient trail next time.

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

    Tour Report by Kiyoko

    Hello, my name is Kiyoko. I have been a local English guide since 2016. I have studied the history and folklore at a local guide club and have an experience of guiding guests from various countries. I am good at Takijiri Oji-Takahara Jinja, Hosshinmon Oji-Hongu Taisha and Daimonzaka-Nachi Taisha, Seiganto-ji, Nachi Fall. Besides Kumano, I can guide Koyasan, Okunoin, Kongobu-ji, Danjo Garan, Niutsuhime Jinja and Jison-in. I have been to Koyasan 30-40 times . My aim is sharing a great time with guests while guiding. See you in Kumano or in Koyasan.

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    May 23, 2026
    Cecile_V
    Viator review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip with Government Licensed Guide
    A great and manageable hike with Kiyoko!
    This is…

    Apr 20, 2026
    rosesinthorns
    Tripadvisor review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip with Government Licensed Guide
    The best way to experience the Kumano Kudo in…

    Mar 26, 2026
    22luisandr_sm
    Tripadvisor review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle
    Amazing experience in Kumano kodo
    Kiyoko was amazing. We are…

    Apr 4, 2025
    robrP6297MQ
    Beautiful Tour with detailed Tour Guide!!
    Tripadvisor review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle
    We had a great…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • ① 09:30　Meet at Hotel Celestine Kyoto Gion
    • ② 09:35　Explanation of the itinerary and the history of Kyoto
    • ③ 10:00　Nijo Castle
    • ④ 11:15　Lunch break at the park in Kyoto Imperial Palace (light)
    • ⑤ 11:30　Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • ⑥ 12:45　Kennin-ji Temple
    • ⑦ 13:30　Disband in front of Kennin-ji Temple

    ### Route: 09:30 Meeting point at Hotel — A private one-day tour of Kyoto was arranged for a group visiting from Oceania. After spending a few days in Tokyo, the guests continued to Kyoto. Since there were no specific requests about where to go during our email exchanges beforehand, I prepared four written plans organized by area and proposed them to the guests. Explaining various options on the spot, asking about their interests, and deciding together on where to visit turned out to be quite enjoyable. As the guests were interested in history, we decided to visit Nijo Castle and the Kyoto Imperial Palace. At the end, I added Kenninji Temple, which is located right next to their accommodation. The guests were pleased because they could return to the hotel immediately after the tour. As there was not enough time for lunch, we bought sandwiches at a convenience store and ate them on a park bench within the grounds of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, and during that time we had a long and lively conversation. Starting from the topic of how the same convenience store chain stocks quite different products in Japan compared to Oceania, I also heard about the history of Anzac biscuits, which were sent during the First World War from Oceania to family members serving overseas, and apparently such biscuits are still sold at convenience stores there. Talking about Japan also means listening to stories about the guests' own country, which is fascinating. At Kenninji Temple, an admission fee is now required for guides as well, so a separate receipt is attached. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. Winner of Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

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

    Tour Report by Kazu

    Hello, this is Kazu Akiyama, your tour guide. Nice to meet you and welcome to Japan. Thank you for joining me on the tour. Now I am a retired salaried worker, living in Osaka. I have been very much interested in not only learning Japanese history, culture, religion myself, but also talking about them (sometimes going off topics) in English with tourists from all over the world as well. I am so excited being with you as your guide on coming day! I am very much looking forward to you enjoying with me visiting the must-see places and some of the hidden gems. See you soon. Thank you – Kazu Akiyama

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    Jul 29, 2026
    James_G
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great guide and very…
    Great guide and very knowledgeable.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    peterhR6472GA
    Kyoto highlights with Kazu.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with Kazu…

    Jul 12, 2026
    cgalvez73
    Fantastic tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our guide in Kyoto was Kazu.…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Winni_H
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Highly recommended when in Kyoto
    Our tour guide…

  • Osaka: Osaka Castle & Kuromon Market

    Osaka: Osaka Castle & Kuromon Market

    Osaka Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet @ Hotel Osaka
    • 09:30 @ Osaka Castle (exterior only)
    • 11:15 @ Pokemon Shop inside Shinsaibashi Daimaru (including a break at a cafe)
    • 12:00 @ Dotonbori
    • 12:45 @ Kuromon Market (including light meals at several shops)
    • 14:00 Disband @ Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

    Title: What's a Private Osaka Food Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. The itinerary that had been confirmed in advance through a local travel agency was almost entirely changed at the start of the tour. In addition, spots that had once been decided were further changed, which caused a little confusion. I also felt that the greatest wish and interest of the guests this time was in food. There was also a comment that visiting shrines and temples was not necessary. In Shinsaibashi, the guests enjoyed matcha at a café, and at Kuromon Market they had sea urchin, crab, pickles, takoyaki, gyoza, and fatty tuna sushi, and were very satisfied. They purchased pickles as a souvenir. I also presented a handmade drawstring pouch, which was received with delight. The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, which had not been included in the original plan, was to be visited by the guests on their own, so we parted ways with more than about an hour remaining after arriving at the site. The driver of the private vehicle today provided very courteous service and driving.

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

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

    This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
    I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
    real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
    if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

    Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
    that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
    and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
    foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
    Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
    explanation for these three foods.

    1) Tako-yaki
    Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
    octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
    2) Okonomi-yaki
    This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
    Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
    3) Kushi-katsu
    Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
    ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

    Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
    that you like them very much.

    I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
    and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
    great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

    Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
    Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
    Yama

    Request Booking

    Sep 27, 2026
    Ross_W
    Fun with Hidden Gems
    Viator review: Osaka Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour, Licensed Guide
    Our guide Yama was so…

    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Great experience
    Yama was great, he showed us around and explained…

    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet in front of the Kinkakuji entrance map　9:05 Kinkakuji　10:50 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove　12:15 Fushimi Inari　13:00 Lunch (ramen, rice bowls, etc.)　14:30 Ginkakuji
    • 15:30 At Ginkakuji-michi, guests take a taxi to the hotel, tour ends

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji, Arashiyama, and Fushimi Inari The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They were staying near Kinkaku-ji, so I started the tour at 9:00 to coincide with the opening of Kinkaku-ji. Today was another very hot day, reaching 35 degrees, and since the guests had only arrived in Japan the day before and were still dealing with jet lag, they became quite tired from the afternoon onward. To purchase transportation IC passes, we got off at Kyoto Station on the way from Arashiyama to Fushimi Inari and stopped by the ticket office. Because of this, an additional fare was incurred again from Kyoto to Inari. Finally, we went to Ginkaku-ji, but the guests only took photos around Ginkaku and did not climb the hill behind it. Then they took a taxi to the Hotel, and the tour ended. An interesting topic that came up in conversation today was that schools in that region begin their summer vacation the earliest in the country, with the break starting around the end of May. The photo was taken at Kinkaku-ji. For tours during this season, considering the heat, it may be best to start as early in the morning as possible and finish in the early afternoon.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherKinkakuji-michi／Kyoto City Bus～Enmachi230JPY
    Section 2TrainEnmachi～Saga-Arashiyama180JPY
    Section 3TrainSaga-Arashiyama～Kyoto240JPY
    Section 4TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 5OtherFushimi Inari～Demachiyanagi280JPY
    Section 6BusDemachiyanagi Station／Kyoto City Bus～Ginkakuji-michi／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total1,310JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

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    Sep 28, 2026
    Miguel_E
    Amazing Service
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful time with Kazuo.…

    Sep 27, 2026
    T
    TrailBlazer47194
    Kazuo Sumi is a great guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide Kazuo Sumi…

    Sep 1, 2026
    Steve6172014
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 7, 2026
    Pascale_Q
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Very good private tour of Kyoto with Kazuo
    We had…

  • Shizuoka Green Tea Farm Tour by Car

    Shizuoka Green Tea Farm Tour by Car

    Shizuoka Green Tea Farm Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • Shimizu Port – Moriuchi Tea Farm – Motoyama Tea Manufacturing – Kashi no Ichi – Shimizu Port

    Title: What Is a Private Shizuoka Tea Farm Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report We met at the port on schedule and boarded the waiting jumbo taxi to head for the Moriuchi Tea Farm. Upon arrival, Mr. Moriuchi and the day's local guide welcomed us. First, following the guide's car by taxi, we visited two tea fields. We listened to detailed explanations about how tea is grown and about varieties such as Yabukita and Saemidori. Mr. Moriuchi is the ninth generation, and during the Edo period the family presented tea to the shogunate. We then returned to Mr. Moriuchi's home, where, admiring the pillars of a Japanese house said to be over 100 years old, we enjoyed a comparative tasting of four kinds of tea (sencha, lightly fermented tea, oolong tea, and black tea). The guests were quite knowledgeable about green tea, and their sharp questions impressed both the local guide and me as the interpreter. They took many photos, and since they also wanted to buy matcha, the farm introduced us to a wholesale shop on the way back, which we stopped by. After that, at the riverside market they ordered and thoroughly enjoyed plenty of the fish dishes they had been looking forward to. On the way back from the matcha shop, Mount Fuji briefly showed itself from within the taxi, and it was also visible for a short while at the restaurant, so everyone cheered with delight.

    Click here for more details: Shizuoka Green Tea Farm Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Acchan

    I have been teaching high school students for 40 years as an English teacher and guiding for 10years including a volunteer guide .Now I am a national government licensed guide. I have been dreaming to introduce Japanese culture including tasty Japanese food and history , our society and also some problems in it. It is a great moment of joy and excitement to be with you from all over the world. I love traveling around Japan and abroad myself. I visited East Germany ,too that does not exist any more. I am looking forward to guiding you in and around Shizuoka!

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    Jul 26, 2026
    Edward_H
    Viator review: Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour, Licensed Guide
    The only way to tour if…
    The only way to…

    Jun 30, 2026
    Louisa_B
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    My Fuji Experience and temple visit
    Great trip out…

    Apr 14, 2026
    Bret_F
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    Great Shizuoka Area Experience
    We enjoyed a memorable day…

    Mar 27, 2026
    James_M
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    Loved are guide.
    Great tour guide. We loved her…

  • Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. Meet 11:00 @Nagoya Port Garden Pier
    • 2. Move to Atsuta Shrine and view the main hall, Kokoro no Komichi, the Treasure Hall, and Kusanagi-kan 11:00-12:40・・Move from Nagoya Port to Atsuta Shrine by subway
    • 3. Move to the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology and view the Textile Machinery Pavilion and the Automobile Pavilion 12:40-14:30・・Move from Atsuta Shrine to the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology by Meitetsu
    • 4. Return to Nagoya Port Garden Pier and disband 15:00

    What's a Half-Day Private Tour of Nagoya Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Toyota Museum and Atsuta Shrine The guests were a group visiting from Africa. During our prior communication, they had especially requested the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology and Atsuta Shrine, so I arranged an itinerary that matched their wishes. Since the group was fairly large, I guided them smoothly through the entire itinerary using public transportation and on foot rather than by taxi, which they were very pleased with. At the Toyota Commemorative Museum, with the cooperation of the museum staff, detailed explanations were given about the exhibits in the Textile Machinery Pavilion and the Automobile Pavilion, which helped the guests deepen their understanding. For a half-day guide, the content was more than full and rich, and the guests were very happy with it.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNagoya Port～Atsuta Jingu Nishi270JPY
    Section 2TrainJingu-mae～Sako270JPY
    Section 3TrainSako～Kanayama (Aichi)250JPY
    Section 4SubwayKanayama (Aichi)～Nagoya Port240JPY
    Total1,030JPY

    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.

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    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…