Category: Uncategorized

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel meet Take the cable car and arrive at Gora at 9:30 Via the mountain railway Enter the Hakone Open-Air Museum at 9:50 Depart the same museum by bus at 11:15 11:50 Hakone Checkpoint Maruyama Bussan, lunch at Denbei soba After visiting the checkpoint Pirate ship from Hakonemachi Port at 13:05 Arrive at Togendai at 13:50 Ropeway suspended due to thunderstorm Take the bus from Kojiri at 14:18 and arrive at Sounzan at 14:50 Hotel shuttle Boarded at 15:00 and finished

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time. Since they had experienced the ropeway on their own the previous day and were mainly looking forward to the pirate ship today, we decided to change the route on short notice and start from the Hakone Open-Air Museum, going counterclockwise. The guests had a relaxed and easygoing manner. At the Open-Air Museum, they tried a foot bath for the first time and enjoyed posing together. They showed great interest in the marquetry (yosegi-zaiku) presentation at the woodcraft shop and bought souvenirs. Unfortunately, due to thunder and for safety reasons, they were unable to go out on the deck of the long-awaited pirate ship. In addition, the ropeway they had planned to ride again was suspended due to the thunderstorm. As a result, we had no choice but to return by bus.

    Transportation cost per person

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

    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

    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…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Okochi Sanso Villa & Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Okochi Sanso Villa & Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00-11:50 Travel (Subway; Kyoto→Shijo, Hankyu Railway; Karasuma-Shijo→Arashiyama)
    • 11:50-12:40 Arashiyama stroll & visit (Togetsukyo Bridge, Tenryu-ji Garden [Sogen-chi Garden, Hyakkaen], Bamboo Grove)
    • 12:40-13:20 Visit Okochi Sanso Villa
    • 13:20-13:30 Visit Nonomiya Shrine
    • 13:30-13:40 Kimono Forest
    • 13:43-14:07 Travel (Keifuku Railway; Arashiyama→Kitano-Hakubaicho)
    • 14:10-14:20 Travel (City Bus; Kitano-Hakubaicho→Kinkakuji-michi)
    • 14:20-15:00 Visit Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 15:00 Tour ends    After the tour, we saw them off to Kyoto Station and said goodbye
    • 1

    What's a Private Day Trip from Osaka to Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama and Kinkaku-ji The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. It was everyone's first time in Kyoto. Based in Osaka, they planned a day trip to Kyoto. We met at Kyoto Station and I took the group to Arashiyama (the Togetsukyo Bridge, the garden of Tenryu-ji Temple, the bamboo grove, Okochi Sanso Villa, Nonomiya Shrine, and the Kimono Forest) and to Kinkaku-ji Temple. The tour took place in intense heat of 37°C. Some of the guests said they most enjoyed the bamboo grove, one preferred Kinkaku-ji Temple, and another enjoyed Okochi Sanso Villa the most. I gave a detailed explanation of the features of Japanese wooden architecture, which one of the guests found especially interesting.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto~Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)220JPY
    Section 2TrainKarasuma~Arashiyama (Hankyu Line)240JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)~Kitano-Hakubaicho250JPY
    Section 4OtherKitano-Hakubaicho~Kinkakuji-michi/Kyoto Municipal Bus230JPY
    Total940JPY

    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 !

    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 Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel Meet 10:30 Fushimi Inari  11:30 Short Break  12:30 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove 12:55 Tenryu-ji Temple 13:35 Lunch 14:15 Togetsukyo Bridge 15:00 Ryoan-ji Temple 
    • 16:00 Kinkaku-ji Temple 17:30 Drop off near the hotel and end of tour

    **Title:** What's an 8-Hour Private Kyoto Tour Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. They seemed to be struggling with the heat in Japan, especially the heat in Kyoto over the past few days. The assignment was an 8-hour tour, originally scheduled to start at 9:00 and end at 17:00, but at the guests' request it was changed to start at 10:00 and finish around 17:00. It felt quite hot to me as well that day, so it must have been very difficult heat for them. We first visited Fushimi Inari, after which one of the guests requested a break at a coffee shop, so we took a short rest at a nearby coffee shop. During our movements, I also tried to use elevators whenever possible. Some of the guests seemed fine, but others appeared to be suffering from the heat, so we incorporated breaks along the way. For the stretch from Ryoanji to Kinkakuji, I judged that waiting at a bus stop in the heat would be too much, so we took a taxi. The taxi fare was 800 yen, so it was not too extravagant. After Kinkakuji, since we still had some time to spare, I saw the group off near their hotel and ended the tour. The photo was taken at the Togetsukyo Bridge in Arashiyama.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKiyomizu-michi/Kyoto City Bus~Tofuku-ji/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2TrainTofuku-ji~Inari150JPY
    Section 3TrainInari~Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 4TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)~Ryoan-ji250JPY
    Section 5BusKinkaku-ji-michi/Kyoto City Bus~Nishioji-Oike/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 6SubwayNishioji-Oike~Higashiyama (Kyoto Prefecture)260JPY
    Section 7BusHigashiyama-Sanjo (Subway Higashiyama Station)/Kyoto City Bus~Kiyomizu-michi/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total1,590JPY

    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.

    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…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0800 Meet at Hyatt Regency
    • 0830 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 1000 Fushimi Inari
    • 1100 Tofuku-ji
    • 1135 Lunch "Kura Sushi"
    • 1300 Daigo-ji
    • 1500 Sagano Bamboo Forest
    • 1410 Disband at Hyatt Regency
    • Continues to extension

    What Is an 8-Hour Private Kyoto Tour with a Vehicle Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The tour was originally planned as a 6-hour private tour with a vehicle, but it was extended by two hours at the request of the guests. Since Daigo-ji Temple was located off the main route, I was concerned about the timing, so I adjusted the schedule by taking a few shortcuts in the latter half. It was a very hot day, with temperatures exceeding 36°C at midday, and the guests seemed a little tired. As they wished to take a relaxed lunch, I left the choice to them, and it ended up taking much longer than planned; they enjoyed it, but this put us behind schedule in the second half. In Sagano, we visited only the bamboo grove before returning to the Hotel. This private one-day tour in Kyoto with a vehicle was arranged through [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides serving all 47 prefectures.

    Select a guide: enter the WordPress Guide post ID or Guide ID in the block settings.

    Oct 10, 2025
    alijohn48
    Just what we were looking for
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Tomy was…

    Aug 8, 2025
    Katherine_G
    Fantastic day touring Kyoto with private tour guide & driver!
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max…

    Jul 22, 2025
    98patrickn
    early morning tour of Kyoto with guide Tomy
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We did an early…

    Jul 20, 2025
    Mark_S
    Great day in Kyoto
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    We had a great…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Ujina Port & Peace Memorial Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Ujina Port & Peace Memorial Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:30 Cruise terminal meet
    • 7:40-7:45 Transfer to Ujina Port by taxi
    • 8:25-8:57 Transfer to Miyajima by high-speed boat from Ujina Port
    • 9:00-10:45 Miyajima
    • 11:00-11:45 Transfer from Miyajima to Peace Memorial Park via the World Heritage Route (high-speed boat)
    • 12:00-12:40 Lunch
    • 12:50-15:00 Peace Memorial Park (Atomic Bomb Dome, museum, etc.)
    • 15:15 Disband at the Peace Memorial Park taxi stand (To keep the number of taxis for the guests to two, I returned to the terminal by streetcar.)

    What Is a Coordinated Private Group Tour to Naoshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Although they originally formed a single larger group, on this occasion they were divided into two separate groups that participated in the tour independently, each having made its own reservation. I guided one of these groups. However, since everyone in the larger group were friends, I coordinated closely with the guide in charge of the other group as we conducted the tour. For guiding at the sightseeing spots, each guide took full responsibility and provided attentive, detailed care. At the same time, by arranging for both groups to use the same high-speed ferry and to have lunch together, we were able to maintain a sense of unity across the whole group, even though they were technically two independent groups. As a result, the guests appeared very satisfied. I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank the [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) representative who supported the execution of this tour, as well as the guide with whom I coordinated. Thank you very much.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherUjina Port~Miyajima1,150JPY
    Section 2OtherMiyajima~Peace Memorial Park1,100JPY
    Section 3TrainChuden-mae~Kaigan-dori240JPY
    Total2,490JPY

    Hi! My name is Kazuhisa To. I was born in Nagasaki Prefecture and spent a total of approximately 17 years there. After graduating from university and completing graduate school, I moved to Hiroshima in 1984. Hiroshima has been my home base for more than 42 years, including approximately five and a half years during which I was posted to Germany and the United States. I worked as an engineer at Mazda Motor Corporation for 40 years. While working at Mazda, I earned a Ph.D. in Engineering through a doctoral program designed for working professionals at a national university. During the final five years of my career at Mazda, I was assigned to Hiroshima University, where I served as a Specially Appointed Professor and Deputy Director of a research center. In this role, I led the development of the center’s organizational and operational framework and advanced more than 20 industry–university collaborative research projects across four major research programs, contributing to regional revitalization. Living in Nagasaki, Hiroshima, Germany, and the United States has deepened my appreciation for the distinct histories and cultures of different regions and broadened my international perspective. Drawing on these experiences, I strive to offer tours that allow guests from around the world to feel comfortable and relaxed while enjoying a genuinely engaging experience. After retiring from Mazda at the end of March 2024, I embarked on a new chapter in my life as a licensed local guide in Hiroshima. In addition to renowned destinations such as Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima, I am delighted to introduce guests to Hiroshima’s history, culture, natural beauty, local cuisine, and everyday life, tailoring each tour to their individual interests and preferences. It is my sincere hope that every guest will enjoy a truly personal and memorable experience while discovering the authentic spirit of Hiroshima. I very much look forward to welcoming you to Hiroshima!

    Sep 28, 2026
    anita2336
    The best time in Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    This was one of…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Mostew
    Private tour with To – Hiroshima / Miyajima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    We…

    Aug 30, 2026
    644lucys
    Fantastic guide, full and wonderful day.
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Today we had…

    Jul 21, 2026
    anza
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Excellent Walking Tour with Kazuhisa To
    We had a…

  • Kyoto: Kintetsu-Nara taxi & Naramachi Nigiwai-no-Ie

    Kyoto: Kintetsu-Nara taxi & Naramachi Nigiwai-no-Ie

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:10 Hilton Kyoto (Start of Tour) (→17:30 End of Tour) walk 7 minutes
    •   Kyoto City Hall (front) → Kintetsu-Nara 1020
    • 10:20 Kintetsu-Nara taxi
    • 10:30-11:00 Ukigumo Enchi (Nara Park)
    •   walk 5 minutes
    • 11:10-20 Todai-ji Nandaimon Gate
    •   walk 5 minutes
    • 11:30-12:00 Todai-ji Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall)
    •   walk 5 minutes
    • 12:20-30 Bell Tower
    •   walk 5 minutes
    • 12:40-13:40 Emado Chaya (lunch)→ Nigatsu-do, Tamukeyama Hachimangu
    •   walk 5 minutes
    • 13:50-14:10 Base of Wakakusayama
    •   walk 5 minutes
    • 14:20-15:00 Kasuga Taisha → Kasuga Taisha Sando Bus Stop
    •     taxi
    • 15:20-16:00 Naramachi Nigiwai-no-Ie
    •   walk 10 minutes
    • 16:30 back at Kintetsu-Nara Station (End of Tour)

    What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like on a Hot Day? A Licensed Guide's Report When I arrived at the meeting point hotel 20 minutes ahead of schedule, the guests were already waiting in the lobby, which was an unusual pattern. Because one of the guests had twisted an ankle the previous day, I made a major last-minute change to the itinerary. I reduced the walking distance by about 2 km. Although I had asked the day before to be sure to bring hats since the temperature would rise close to body temperature, the guests came without hats. They said they were used to this kind of heat where they are from in North America and always go without hats. As expected, they began showing signs of heat fatigue, and the tour ended earlier than planned.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto City Hall (front)~Sanjo Keihan220JPY
    Section 2TrainSanjo (Kyoto)~Tambabashi280JPY
    Section 3TrainKintetsu-Tambabashi~Kintetsu-Nara680JPY
    Total1,180JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Tokyo Tower

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Tokyo Tower

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet in front of Shinjuku 16 Building
    • 8:30〜9:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 10:00〜10:15 Break at "Excelsior" in Kamiyacho
    • 10:30〜11:00 Tokyo Tower
    • 11:30〜12:30 Tsukiji Market, lunch at Sushi Zanmai conveyor belt sushi
    • 12:50〜13:30 Stop by the Asakusa Tourist Center, then Senso-ji Temple
    • 13:00〜13:45 Break at "February Kitchen" in Asakusa
    • 14:00〜14:20 Ueno Park, Shinobazu Pond
    • 14:50 Disband at the platform of Shinjuku Station

    What Does a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. Since email communication had not been possible until just before the tour and I did not know their preferred destinations, I felt quite anxious, but as soon as we met they greeted me with big smiles, which put me at ease. Since they left the choice of destinations up to me, I planned a classic Tokyo sightseeing course. As they had already visited Kyoto and Osaka, at Meiji Shrine they performed the two bows and two claps without me needing to explain the proper way to worship. At the ema area, they wrote their wishes on paper and offered them. They truly value Japanese culture. They kindly suggested taking a coffee break at Kamiyacho Station, so we were able to rest for a while and forget the heat. It is always appreciated when guests suggest this themselves. They also viewed Tokyo Tower with great interest. As one of the guests enjoyed photography, they captured the urban skyline one shot after another with a single-lens reflex camera. At Tsukiji, they experienced conveyor-belt sushi. Both of them tried various kinds of sushi and were very satisfied. In Asakusa, we took our time exploring Nakamise Street, the main hall, and Yogodo Hall. Since we had been walking around for a long time in the heat, they again suggested taking a short break themselves. They were very considerate of my well-being throughout, which I greatly appreciated. Although it was not in the original plan, since we had cooled down and regained our energy, we also stopped by Shinobazu Pond in Ueno Park. They were delighted by the large lotus leaves and flowers growing in abundance and took many photos. On the way back, I saw them off at Shinjuku Station as they headed to their hotel.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOkubo~Harajuku170JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Kamiyacho180JPY
    Section 3SubwayKamiyacho~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 4SubwayHigashi-ginza~Asakusa220JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa~Ueno180JPY
    Section 6TrainUeno~Shinjuku210JPY
    Total1,140JPY

    I’m YUMI. Japan is full of history, nature and culture. I would like to talk about them from many aspects. When you have some questions, don’t hesitate to ask me. There’re many off the beaten paths in Japan. If you want to walk in a hidden local area, I’ll tailor the special course as you wish.
    Experiencing new foods is also one of many intriguing things during your trip. I would recommend anything from street foods such as Ramen, Yakitori to authentic Sushi or elegant courses. My policy is to cherish your feelings and time. Let’s enjoy talking and walking with me!

    Jun 6, 2026
    Michelle0309
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Off the tourist track in Tokyo
    We had such a lovely time…

    May 25, 2026
    lynnv748
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hakone was a highlight of our vacation
    We loved our day…

    May 20, 2026
    Suzana F
    Tripadvisor review: Tsukiji Food and Toyosu Market with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learned and enjoyed every minut
    Yumi was a fanty…

    May 14, 2026
    Robert_L
    Excellent tour with our outstanding guide, Yumi
    Viator review: Tokyo 6 hr Private Guided Tour & Tea Ceremony Experience
    Yumi is…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①Fushimi Inari Shrine 8.30-10.00
    • ②Kyoto Imperial Palace 10.00-11.45
    • ③Nishiki market 11.45-12.30

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Kyoto Imperial Palace, and Nishiki Market The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. As they wished to see Fushimi Inari, the Kyoto Imperial Palace, and Nishiki Market, we took a taxi from Fushimi Inari to the Kyoto Imperial Palace to save time. One of the guests was especially interested in Japanese history and asked many detailed questions. It was another very hot day, but the guests took a liking to the menthol cooling sheets I offered them and even bought some at a drugstore along the way. I believe they enjoyed their first visit to Japan.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherKeihan Shichijo~Fushimi Inari170JPY
    Section 2OtherMarutamachi (Kyoto Municipal)~Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)220JPY
    Total390JPY

    Hi there, I’m Yuka. Let me tell you a little bit about myself. I live in an onsen (hot spring) town in Hyogo prefecture. When I was working at Narita international airport as well as living in Bangkok Thailand for about 10 years, I really loved talking with people from various countries. After I came back to Japan, I got interested in guiding my beautiful country to people from abroad then I got the national guide license. I’m now working as a tour leader visiting mainly Tokyo, Hakone, Takayama, Hiroshima, Himeji and Kyoto for about 2 years. I’d like to introduce my country to you as your local friend in Japan. Hope to see you soon.

    Mar 19, 2026
    dennisfH6016XT
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tolle Tour mit einer grosartigen Guide
    Yuka ist eine sehr freundliche und…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Peace Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at the hotel near Hiroshima Station
    • 8:35-9:20 Travel from Hiroshima Station to Miyajima
    • 9:30-11:45 Miyajima
    • 11:55-12:57 Travel to Peace Park
    • 13:05-13:40 Lunch
    • 13:45-14:15 Peace Park (excluding the museum; tour the Dome and other monuments)
    • 14:20-14:45 Travel from Peace Memorial Park to Hiroshima Station
    • 14:50 Disband at Hiroshima Station

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. From Hiroshima Station, I took them by JR train and ferry to Miyajima in the morning. In Miyajima, just after the end of the rainy season, the weather was clear and the temperature was high, but they walked around and thoroughly enjoyed the Great Torii Gate, Itsukushima Shrine, and Daishoin Temple. They seemed especially satisfied with the scenery of the Great Torii Gate and Itsukushima Shrine, which appear to float on the sea. After that, we transferred by ferry and JR train and had lunch at a shopping arcade in the city center. At the guests' request, they wished to travel to Tokyo on an earlier Shinkansen than originally planned, so we skipped the visit to the Peace Memorial Museum, moved to Hiroshima Station, and parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi~Shin-Hakushima330JPY
    Section 3TrainShin-Hakushima~Hondori190JPY
    Section 4BusPeace Memorial Park/Hiroshima Bus~Hiroshima Station240JPY
    Total1,180JPY

    Hi! My name is Kazuhisa To. I was born in Nagasaki Prefecture and spent a total of approximately 17 years there. After graduating from university and completing graduate school, I moved to Hiroshima in 1984. Hiroshima has been my home base for more than 42 years, including approximately five and a half years during which I was posted to Germany and the United States. I worked as an engineer at Mazda Motor Corporation for 40 years. While working at Mazda, I earned a Ph.D. in Engineering through a doctoral program designed for working professionals at a national university. During the final five years of my career at Mazda, I was assigned to Hiroshima University, where I served as a Specially Appointed Professor and Deputy Director of a research center. In this role, I led the development of the center’s organizational and operational framework and advanced more than 20 industry–university collaborative research projects across four major research programs, contributing to regional revitalization. Living in Nagasaki, Hiroshima, Germany, and the United States has deepened my appreciation for the distinct histories and cultures of different regions and broadened my international perspective. Drawing on these experiences, I strive to offer tours that allow guests from around the world to feel comfortable and relaxed while enjoying a genuinely engaging experience. After retiring from Mazda at the end of March 2024, I embarked on a new chapter in my life as a licensed local guide in Hiroshima. In addition to renowned destinations such as Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima, I am delighted to introduce guests to Hiroshima’s history, culture, natural beauty, local cuisine, and everyday life, tailoring each tour to their individual interests and preferences. It is my sincere hope that every guest will enjoy a truly personal and memorable experience while discovering the authentic spirit of Hiroshima. I very much look forward to welcoming you to Hiroshima!

    Sep 28, 2026
    anita2336
    The best time in Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    This was one of…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Mostew
    Private tour with To – Hiroshima / Miyajima
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    We…

    Aug 30, 2026
    644lucys
    Fantastic guide, full and wonderful day.
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Today we had…

    Jul 21, 2026
    anza
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    Excellent Walking Tour with Kazuhisa To
    We had a…

  • Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at Hyatt Regency Kyoto
    • 9:00 Tenryu-ji Temple ~ Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Walk ~ Nonomiya Shrine
    • 11:15 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 12:00 Disband at the entrance of Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    What's a Private Day Tour of Kyoto's Arashiyama and Fushimi Inari Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today I guided a group visiting from North America. It was surprisingly hot from early in the morning, so frequent hydration was necessary throughout the day. We began by strolling through Arashiyama, visiting Tenryu-ji Temple and the bamboo grove. There were slightly fewer people than usual, and the guests were delighted with the beautiful Tenryu-ji garden. The lotus flowers were just beginning to bloom, and they were lovely. Afterward, we moved on to Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, but it was quite hot there as well, so rather than taking our time, we needed to see the highlights efficiently. The Senbon Torii was not too crowded, and the guests were happy to be able to take some good photos. Despite the heat, I believe they enjoyed the day.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 2TrainSaga-Arashiyama~Inari240JPY
    Total480JPY

    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.

    Jul 25, 2026
    135ulrikh
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    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
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    Excellent Kyoto Day Tour
    We had a wonderful experience touring Kyoto…