Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 The Thousand Kyoto Meet
    • 10:10 Nijo Castle
    • 12:00 Kimono Forest
    • 12:15 Togetsukyo Bridge
    • 12:25 Tenryu-ji Garden
    • 13:00 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Walk
    • 13:30 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Entrance Dismissal

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nijo Castle and Arashiyama Today I guided a group visiting Japan from North America. They had already traveled around Tokyo and the Mount Fuji area before coming to Kyoto. They had done thorough research and had purchased tickets for Nijo Castle online in advance. There were many school trip students, so it was quite crowded. Afterwards we moved to Arashiyama, and perhaps because it was around lunchtime, the bamboo grove was not too crowded, which was wonderful. The guests had decided to come to Japan out of a strong interest in the country. They were very fond of Japanese cuisine.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto～Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijojo-mae～Uzumasa Tenjingawa260JPY
    Section 3TrainRanden Tenjingawa～Arashiyama250JPY
    Total770JPY

    Tour Report by Kaeko

    Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

    Request Booking

    Jul 25, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Half-day with private guide in Kyoto
    We spent half a day…

    Jul 24, 2026
    J6711TVnancyb
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Family Fun Day in Kyoto with young children
    Kaeko Tanigawa was fantastic at helping us create…

    Jul 13, 2026
    elizabethtW414DU
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Private Tour
    Kaeko was absolutely amazing from start…

    Jul 12, 2026
    johnkE8649IH
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Kyoto Day Tour
    We had a wonderful experience touring Kyoto…

  • Wakayama in One Day: Waiting at Nankai Cable Koyasan Station

    Wakayama in One Day: Waiting at Nankai Cable Koyasan Station

    Mt. Koya Sacred Sites in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00～ Waiting at Nankai Cable "Koyasan Station"
    • 10:25 Meet up: "Koyasan Station" (First, stop by the accommodation, Ekoin Temple Lodging)
    • 11:00 Walking Tour (1) Okunoin⇒Gobyo Mausoleum
    • 12:45 Lunch/Break: "Rest Area" in front of Okunoin
    • 13:40 Walking Tour (2) Kongobuji Temple⇒Danjo Garan⇒Daimon Gate
    • 15:40 Return to the temple lodging
    • 16:00 Dismissal: Ekoin Temple Lodging

    Title: What Is a Private Guided Day Tour of Mount Koya (Koyasan) Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors traveling in Japan from Europe. All prior communication and itinerary coordination were handled not with the guests directly but through a local travel agency in their home region. Since direct contact had not been possible, there was some concern beforehand, but a staff member at the agency had visited Mount Koya many times, so everything appeared to have been conveyed accurately to the guests, and I was able to provide reliable service from start to finish. The itinerary was finalized as proposed by the guests and the agency: Okunoin, the Mausoleum, lunch, Kongobuji Temple, the Danjo Garan complex, and the Daimon Gate. On the day of the tour, the lowlands apparently reached a "summer day" of over 25 degrees, but at Mount Koya's elevation of 800 meters, even under clear skies the heat did not feel too strong, making for ideal touring weather. Both guests were strong walkers, so we were able to proceed smoothly through the sightseeing as planned. They had studied Japanese culture and religion in advance, so my explanations were easily understood. Especially at Kongobuji Temple, the priest on duty kindly gave a gentle explanation of Kukai's worldview, including the "mandala," which I was able to translate and convey to the guests. The weather was fine, the schedule progressed smoothly, and the guests were satisfied, making for a fulfilling day of guiding.

    Click here for more details: Mt. Koya Sacred Sites in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassWithin Koyasan area～Within Koyasan area1,100JPY
    Total1,100JPY

    Tour Report by Nori

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

    Request Booking

    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…

    Oct 16, 2025
    Michael_H
    Thoroughly enjoyed the…
    Viator review: Osaka Off the Beaten Path 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Thoroughly enjoyed the day out…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. ​9:30 Meet @ Hilton Tokyo
    • 2. 10:00 @ Meiji Shrine
    • 3. 11:00 @ Takeshita Street, Omotesando
    • 4. 12:30 @ Asakusa (Kaminarimon, Nakamise Street, Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa Shrine)
    • 5. 13:30 Disperse @ Asakusa Station

    What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, and Asakusa At the first stop, Meiji Shrine, the guests listened with great interest to explanations about the imperial family and the differences between Shinto and Buddhism. On Takeshita Street, since they had never been to a 100-yen shop, I took them to DAISO. On Omotesando, I introduced several distinctive buildings and explained their architectural concepts. We then moved to Asakusa, where the guests enjoyed eating ningyo-yaki and kibi-dango along Nakamise Street. As planned, we finished the tour with a farewell at Asakusa Station. After the tour, the guests wanted to have lunch, so I handed them a map of restaurants in Asakusa, and since they wanted to eat tempura, I recommended a tempura restaurant.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNishi-Shinjuku～Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 2TrainOmotesando～Asakusa260JPY
    Total440JPY

    Tour Report by Tak

    Hello! My name is Tak. I am a government licensed guide interpreter since March 2017. I specialize mainly in Tokyo and Kawagoe/Saitama area. I have an extensive overseas experience, starting with my study abroad in the U.S. and continuing with expatriate experiences in both U.S. and Asia. I enjoy interacting and communicating with people from overseas, so I would be happy to use my knowledge and experience to help foreign guests enjoy Japanese culture, history, rich nature, and delicious food. I look forward to guiding you in creating wonderful memories of your time in Japan.

    Request Booking

    May 30, 2026
    JamesL_S
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tak was great.
    Tak our guide was wonderful. If you could get…

    May 24, 2026
    scottdY5844QU
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Guided Tour
    Tak was an excellent guide. Very knowledgeable on all…

    May 14, 2026
    MartyCow
    Great tours of Tokyo with Tak!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We booked 2 tours with our…

    Apr 11, 2026
    M8348RDalexw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Memorable day with Takashi
    Tak was fantastic to spend the day with…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:35 Meet @all day place shibuya
    • 2. 10:40 Move∶Train
    • 3. 10:50 Stay @Meiji Shrine
    • 4. 11:40 Move∶Subway
    • 5. 12:05 Stay @Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 6. 13:20 Move∶Subway
    • 7. 13:35 Stay @Nezu Shrine
    • 8. 14:15 Move∶Subway
    • 9. 14:45 Disband @Senso-ji Kaminarimon

    What Is a Private 4-Hour Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Tokyo. Their arrival at the lobby was slightly delayed, but since I had received a message through a messaging app, we were able to start the tour without any trouble. The requested spots were three places: Meiji Shrine, the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, and Nezu Shrine. It is usually difficult to visit all of them within four hours, but the group walked at a fast pace and did not spend time shopping along the way, so everything proceeded smoothly to the end. After the tour, the group wished to enjoy street food in Asakusa, so it was very helpful that we did not need to take a meal break during the four hours. At the end, I briefly explained the history of Senso-ji Temple in front of Kaminarimon Gate before we parted ways. To save time, we took the JR line for the section from Shibuya Station to Harajuku Station at the beginning.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShibuya Station～Harajuku Station150JPY
    Section 2Free PassMeiji-jingumae Station～Otemachi Station700JPY
    Section 3Free PassOtemachi Station～Nezu Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassNezu Station～Yushima Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassUeno-hirokoji Station～Asakusa Station0JPY
    Total850JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

    Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
    I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
    I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
    One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
    Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
    I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

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    Jul 21, 2026
    G848SWmaribelm
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
    The tour experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Cezary P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour of Tokyo!
    Sam, was outstanding! Showed…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Michael_C
    Tokyo tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a wonderful guide -…

    Jun 18, 2026
    David_W
    Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Fish Market Tour
    Great tour. Got to see…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 9:00 Meet @ Mesm Tokyo Autograph Collection (Waters Takeshiba, 1-10-30 Kaigan, Minato-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 10:00 Asakusa <Nakamise-dori・Senso-ji Temple>
    • 3) 11:00 Akihabara
    • 4) 12:00 Harajuku <Takeshita-dori・Ura-Harajuku・Cat Street>
    • 5) 13:00 Lunch @ Ippudo Harajuku Harakado (5F Tokyu Plaza Harajuku "Harakado", 6-31-21 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)
    • 6) 14:00 Shibuya <Scramble Crossing・Mega Don Quijote Shibuya Main Store>
    • 7) 15:00 Disband @ Starbucks Coffee SHIBUYA TSUTAYA 2F (2F 6QFRONT, 5-1-21 Udagawacho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)

    Title: What's a Private Tour of Tokyo Like from Asakusa to Shibuya? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private tour of Tokyo for a group visiting from North America. Before the tour, they had requested places where they could "feel Tokyo," specifically mentioning Harajuku and Akihabara. At the start of the tour, I reconfirmed the itinerary. Some of the guests had already downloaded the Suica app. One of the guests is a big fan of the anime "Sailor Moon" and had spent two months learning Japanese through a social media app! For those who could not complete the download, I suggested purchasing the "Tokyo Free Ticket" (1,600 yen for adults) for convenience, which they agreed to (after I also explained that it cannot be used on the Yurikamome Line). From the pre-tour communication, I got the impression that the guests were not particularly interested in the history of Tokyo. However, since we were visiting Asakusa, I gave a brief explanation of the origins of Senso-ji Temple and Buddhism, as well as the many lanterns displayed in preparation for the Sanja Matsuri festival being held this weekend. When they showed interest in Asakusa Shrine as well, I guided them to the torii gate. They were pleased to be guided from Nitenmon Gate to Umamichi-dori, then Denbo-in-dori, Kannon-dori, and on to Asakusa Station on the Ginza Line. In Akihabara, I guided them from Chuo-dori to the Radio Kaikan building. In Harajuku, one of the guests wanted to buy shoes at a shoe store on Takeshita Street, but unfortunately the desired size was sold out. Throughout the tour, one of the guests quietly and warmly watched over the others, letting their preferences take priority. After a light meal at a crepe shop, I guided the group through Ura-Harajuku and Cat Street. However, there was a line at THE MATCHA TOKYO even on a weekday, so we gave up and I guided them to Harakado instead. After a tour of the fifth and sixth floors, they decided on a ramen shop on the fifth floor and took a lunch break. When I mentioned Washington Heights (now Yoyogi Park), one of the guests said, "My grandfather was formerly in the U.S. military. I've heard that he was assigned to Japan right after the end of the war and lived there with his family." It was the first time I had met someone with a family connection to Washington Heights, and I found it quite moving. Our final stop was Shibuya. After guiding them to the famous crossing, I suggested a walk to the Don Quijote Shibuya store, and at the request of one of the guests who wanted to look at T-shirts and other items, we went inside. Along the way, I accompanied another guest who wanted to look at FINO hair care products, and after they finished their shopping and we regrouped, the rest of the group completed their shopping as well. They said they wanted to stop by a Starbucks before heading back to the hotel, so I guided them there, confirmed the route back to the hotel, and we parted ways with smiles.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainYurikamome Line Takeshiba Station～Yurikamome Line Shimbashi Station190JPY
    Section 2TrainToei Subway Asakusa Line Shimbashi Station～Toei Subway Asakusa Line Asakusa Station220JPY
    Section 3TrainTokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station～Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Suehirocho Station180JPY
    Section 4TrainJR Chuo Line Local Akihabara Station～JR Yamanote Line Harajuku Station180JPY
    Section 5TrainJR Yamanote Line Harajuku Station～JR Yamanote Line Shibuya Station150JPY
    Total920JPY

    Tour Report by Tachi

    Hi! I’m a local guide in Tokyo and have been working as a licensed tour guide for almost 10 years. I love helping guests discover the “real Japan” beyond the guidebooks. I enjoy showing guests both famous sights and places that many tourists miss. My tours are based on your interests and can include not only famous sightseeing spots, but also local neighborhoods, culture, history, and everyday life in Japan. I also help guests enjoy Japanese cultural activities and make communication easier. If you’d like vegan or gluten-free meals, let me help you find suitable restaurants in Tokyo. If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, please feel free to let me know in advance. I look forward to showing you around Tokyo!

    Request Booking

    Jun 19, 2026
    Daniel_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 would do again!
    Our guide, Tachi was incredibly accommodating, friendly, and…

    May 24, 2026
    Meander63637687943
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Japanese Garden Lover’s Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour guide Tachi is the best!
    A most enjoyable and…

    May 19, 2026
    Jai_K
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    I would definitely…
    I would definitely recommend this tour. Our guide Tachi…

    May 5, 2026
    Gary33556
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour of the highlights of Tokyo
    Tachi was our guide. What…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace East & Sensoji Temple and Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace East & Sensoji Temple and Asakusa

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00　Meet at the hotel
    • 13:15　JR Pass exchange procedure and Shinkansen reservation
    • 14:15　Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 15:45　Lunch in Asakusa
    • 16:30　Sensoji Temple and Asakusa Shrine
    • 18:00　Guide around Ikebukuro, Sunshine City, anime, animal cafes, etc.
    • 18:50　End

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Asakusa, and Ikebukuro Anime Spots The guests were visitors from North America. To begin with, there was an issue with obtaining the JR Pass tickets, as the outcome differed from what the guests had expected. The guests planned to visit Kanazawa, Kyoto, and Osaka. In this case, the ticket is treated as a Hokuriku Shinkansen Pass, which does not allow travel on the Tokaido Shinkansen. This means that traveling to Kyoto would have to be routed via the Hokuriku Shinkansen. The guests did not seem entirely convinced, but this is the kind of thing that can happen when guests purchase online themselves. In the end, it was resolved and they agreed. I guided them around the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace and Asakusa. For lunch, they enjoyed their favorite chicken dishes — oyakodon and chicken teriyaki — along with beer, which restored their good spirits. Then I guided them to the anime spots in Ikebukuro, including Sunshine City and the Animate building.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayIkebukuro～Otemachi210JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi～Asakusa180JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa～Ikebukuro360JPY
    Total750JPY

    Tour Report by Shuji

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

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

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

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

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

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle Park & Osaka Museum of History

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle Park & Osaka Museum of History

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Hotel Meet up
    • 10:20 ~11:30 Osaka Castle Park
    • 11:40~12:30 Osaka Museum of History
    • 13:00~13:40 Kuromon Market～Dotonbori　Dismiss

    Can You Do a Private One-Day Tour of Osaka? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Kuromon Market, and Dotonbori The guests were visiting from North America, and this was their second time in Japan, though their first trip to the Kansai region, with plans to travel to Osaka, Kyoto, and Hiroshima, so they were looking forward to it. One of the guests enjoyed filming travel videos as a hobby and spent most of the time looking through the video camera. Starting from Umeda Grand Front and JR Osaka Station, they kept the camera rolling throughout Osaka Castle Park, the history museum, Kuromon Market, and Dotonbori. The weather was fine and calm, and at Osaka Castle Park they were impressed by the contrast between the surrounding modern city skyline and the outer defensive structures of Osaka Castle. At the history museum, touching the ruins of the Naniwa Palace from 1,300 years ago sparked a lively conversation about the emperors of that era and the differences with the current imperial household. At Dotonbori as well, they captured on camera and talked about the differences from the Edo-period Dotonbori they had seen at the museum.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOsaka～Osaka Castle Park180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Namba240JPY
    Total420JPY

    Tour Report by shige

    Hello, This is Shige. I was born and brought up in Osaka. I have been enjoying working as a tour guide since 2016 after retired from a manufacturing company in which I worked at the overseas department. So I experienced a lot of business with customers in Europe, Asia, Australia, and USA where my three years of living and working at the subsidiary company with my family was the most amazing experience of my life. Well, Japan has a long history including ancient remains, historic buildings and cultures at each period over 2000 years. I hope you will enjoy exploring Japan in this tour. I look forward to seeing you soon.
    Shige.

    Request Booking

    May 23, 2026
    Sarajean_s
    Viator review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful way to get acquainted with Kyoto
    Shige was a…

    May 21, 2026
    828vickeyb
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Shige is a great tour guide for Kyoto
    Shige was an excellent…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Mariana_M
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking Tour with Shige
    Shige was an amazing tour guide and companion…

    Jul 4, 2025
    Marcus_C
    Osaka tour 2025
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful tour around Osaka. Our guide…

  • Osaka: Nara Park and Todai-ji Temple & Higashimuki Shopping Street

    Osaka: Nara Park and Todai-ji Temple & Higashimuki Shopping Street

    Nara Day Trip from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:20 　 Depart from hotel (Osaka)
    • 10:45　Nara Park and Todai-ji Temple
    • 12:30 　Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 13:30 　Higashimuki Shopping Street (Lunch)
    • 14:30 　Kofuku-ji Temple ~ Shopping in the surrounding area
    • 15:45 Depart from Nara
    • 17:00　Arrive at hotel

    Title: Can You Do a Private Walking Tour of Nara? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from the Middle East. The weather was clear and sunny that day. The temperature rose from around noon and it became rather hot, but the guests loved walking, so we made smooth progress while moving on foot. We walked back from the main sanctuary of Kasuga Taisha Shrine to Kintetsu Nara Station. Along the way, the guests stopped at various souvenir shops, looking especially for gifts to bring back to family. The guests were interested in staying healthy, and at lunchtime they looked for a restaurant where they could have a vegetable salad. One of the guests also went to a supermarket to buy dried konjac noodles to take home. Unfortunately, the supermarket we stopped at did not carry the product, which left me a little concerned.

    Click here for more details: Nara Day Trip from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNishi-Umeda～Namba240JPY
    Section 2TrainOsaka-Namba～Kintetsu Nara680JPY
    Section 3BusKintetsu Nara Station～Todai-ji Daibutsuden-mae250JPY
    Section 4TrainKintetsu Nara～Osaka-Namba680JPY
    Section 5SubwayNamba～Nishi-Umeda240JPY
    Total2,090JPY

    Tour Report by Yoshi

    I am Yoshi, a Nara Local Government Licensed Guide Interpreter and also, a National Government Licensed Interepreter.
    Let’s go out! The Kansai region was the center of Japan for a long time. It was from the 4th century to 19th century. Thus the Kansai region is rich in scenic and historic interest. Why don’t we see, feel, and find so many attractions in Nara Kyoto and Osaka. I was born and raised in Nara. Also I have been to Osaka and Kyoto for working, shopping and dining. I can show you not only major tourist spots but also shops and delicious food that only locals know. I am looking forward to sharing wonderful moments with you!

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    May 29, 2025
    Dana_K
    Get ready to climb and explore
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    There is a lot of climbing…

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  • Kanagawa: Guide through Yokohama to Kannai & Tsurugaoka Hachiman

    Kanagawa: Guide through Yokohama to Kannai & Tsurugaoka Hachiman

    Kamakura Hidden Trails Day Hike with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Pick up at the new grand hotel
    • 9:00 Guide through Yokohama to Kannai
    • 9:40 Arrive at Kamakura by train
    • 9:50 Take the Enoden to Hase. Visit the Great Buddha
    • 10:30 Start hiking from the Great Buddha, Kuzuharaoka Great Buddha Hiking Course
    • 12:30 Arrive at Jochi-ji Temple
    • 12:45 Visit Kencho-ji Temple
    • 13:30 Visit Tsurugaoka Hachiman
    • 13:50 From Kamakura to Ishikawacho
    • 14:30 Disband passing through Honcho, Ishikawacho, the nearest station to the new grand hotel

    Title: What Is a Private Hiking and Temple Tour in Kamakura Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe who loved nature and mountain walking and were strong walkers. After viewing the Great Buddha, they greatly enjoyed the nature along the hiking course and the chirping of the birds. Due to rain the previous day, the shaded parts of the trail were a little damp and slippery, but they completed the course without any falls. After the hiking course, I had thought of guiding them to Meigetsuin, but since they mentioned that many hydrangeas bloom around their home, we changed the plan to Kenchoji Temple. It was memorable when they remarked that the natural soil of their home region and Kamakura are similar, so there are various kinds of trees.

    Click here for more details: Kamakura Hidden Trails Day Hike with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKannai～Kamakura410JPY
    Section 2TrainKamakura～Hase200JPY
    Section 3TrainKamakura～Ishikawacho410JPY
    Total1,020JPY

    Tour Report by Naoko

    My name is Naoko Fukai. I was born in Tokyo and grew up in Yokohama. I love Yokohama where Japanese modernity started from more than 150 years ago. I will guide you Yokohama, Kamakura, Hakone and Tokyo. Sometimes I do guide in Kyoto , Himeji and Setonaikai inland sea area near Himeji. Japan is very unique . Very traditional but very modern. Very advanced but very ancient. I will show you around Japan in that point of views. 70 percent of Japanese land is covered with forests and mountains. Our life is closely related with nature. I will show you the beautiful nature in Japan.

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  • Hakone in 1 Day by Private Car

    Hakone in 1 Day by Private Car

    Hakone in 1 Day by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet, Izuhakone Kotsu, by car to Sounzan, by ropeway to Owakudani, 9:30 view of Mt. Fuji, black eggs, after shopping, by ropeway to Togendai, by car to Mikuni Pass (view of Mt. Fuji), return to Togendai, 11:25 pirate ship, 11:50 Hakonemachi Port, 12:00 lunch at Donburi Chaya, then Maruyama Bussan, Hakone Checkpoint, cedar avenue, after strolling
    • 14:15 Hotel de Yama, viewing the azalea garden, 15:00 Hakone Shrine, red torii gate, 15:20 return to hotel and disband

    Title: What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report from Japan Guide Agency The guests were a group of four visiting Hakone. As is my custom, I made and presented a celebration board, which they said they would treasure. When Mount Fuji suddenly came into view from the ropeway, the whole group cheered, and they were delighted to see it clearly from Mikuni Pass as well. The presentation of Yosegi marquetry woodwork at Maruyama also drew applause and cheers, and they bought some souvenirs. The azaleas at the mountainside hotel were in full bloom, and they thoroughly enjoyed them. Some of the guests found the natural beauty of Hakone particularly interesting and enjoyable, while others, being knowledgeable about bonsai, especially liked the garden at the mountainside hotel. All four had a wonderful time, and since they would be staying another day, I recommended the Hakone Open-Air Museum and the Okada Museum of Art.

    Click here for more details: Hakone in 1 Day by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSounzan～Togendai1,500JPY
    Section 2TrainTogendai～Hakonemachi Port1,200JPY
    Total2,700JPY

    Tour Report by Hiro

    I am Hiroki Morikawa :Hiro:, English guide living with my wife ,just a hop skip and jump from Hakone, Kamakura, Tokyo and the Mt. Fuji.
    I am a friendly grandfather of 4 grandchildren.
    I would love to help you enjoy Japan, using my 3 strong points.
    First: I am used to dealing with any kind of matters. I have experienced various situations in the 40 years of my working life.
    Second: I am good at making a friendly atmosphere between you and local people to help you enjoy Japan. I was raised in western Japan, studied in northern Japan and now live in central Japan. So I know various local cultures and dialects to communicate with a wide variety of people.
    Third: I can explain things from a technical point of view.
    For example, how the Great Buddha was constructed, because I am a master of engineering graduated from Hokkaido University.
    Please enjoy Japan with me. See you soon!!
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