Category: Uncategorized

  • Nagasaki in Half a Day: Nagasaki Atomic Bomb & Nagai Takashi Memorial

    Nagasaki in Half a Day: Nagasaki Atomic Bomb & Nagai Takashi Memorial

    Nagasaki Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel
    • 9:30 Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum
    • 11:30 Hypocenter Park & Peace Park
    • 12:00 Nagai Takashi Memorial Museum
    • 13:00 Lunch in Chinatown
    • 14:00 Disband at the hotel

    What Is a Private Nagasaki Tour Focused on Atomic Bomb History Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests' first destination in Japan was Nagasaki, and they specifically requested to focus on learning about the history of the atomic bomb, asking to be taken only to related sites. For this reason, I took them to the Takashi Nagai Memorial Museum, dedicated to an honorary citizen of Nagasaki. At the Atomic Bomb Museum, they carefully examined the exhibits and listened intently to my family's experience of the bombing and to stories of history that had almost been buried in darkness, spending about two hours there. At Peace Park and the Hypocenter Park, I introduced only the main highlights due to time, taking care to leave enough time for the Takashi Nagai Memorial Museum. They asked me to join them for lunch as well, so I introduced a restaurant in Chinatown that my family often visits. They treated me to lunch and asked for my business card, saying they wanted to recommend me to their friends. They were also delighted with the handmade paper cranes.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainDejima～Atomic Bomb Museum150JPY
    Section 2TrainOhashi～Nishihamamachi150JPY
    Total300JPY

    Tour Report by Coco

    Hello, I’m Rikako, but please call me Coco. It would be my absolute pleasure to show you around my hometown of Nagasaki. Having performed in the Nagasaki Kunchi Festival in my childhood, I developed a deep interest in history and cultural exchange. This motivated me to become a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter during my university years. Since then, I have gained valuable experience—from assisting ambassadors at the Nagasaki Peace Memorial Ceremony to handling a wide variety of tours, including private and coach tours, site inspections, international conference support, and VIP hospitality.
    Explaining about Nagasaki’s history and culture is the most important to me. It is not only about this. I would love to provide genuine care so that your time in Nagasaki remains in your heart forever.
    I’m truly looking forward to guiding you in Nagasaki 🙂

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    Jul 21, 2026
    Dawnery_V
    Viator review: Nagasaki Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Beautiful city. Great guide.
    Rikako was a great guide. She…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Todd_C
    Viator review: Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Had a very nice…
    Had a very nice experience. Coco was very…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Explore34946025848
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nagasaki
    Really good day out with a local guide, very informative about…

    Apr 4, 2026
    Giovanni_M
    Viator review: Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Good
    Nagasaki is a very interesting tour
    I would recommend…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Nunobiki Herb Garden & Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Nunobiki Herb Garden & Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet at Kobe Port Terminal
    • 11:15 at Nunobiki Herb Garden
    • 12:45 at Kitano Ijinkan (Moegi House)
    • 14:30 at Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
    • 15:45 Disband at Port Liner, Sannomiya Station

    Title: What Is a Private Kobe Tour Like at Nunobiki Herb Garden and Akashi Kaikyo Bridge? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were two groups visiting from North America. The tour proceeded at a fairly slow pace with frequent breaks. In addition, at the first stop, Nunobiki Herb Garden, some of the guests spent a great deal of time exploring, so the tour ran considerably behind the original schedule. At the Kitano Ijinkan foreign residences and the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, some of the guests walked partway and then rested for the remainder. Some of the guests seemed very interested in plants and explored Nunobiki Herb Garden with great enthusiasm. From the observation deck, they were able to see with the naked eye the cruise ship they were traveling on, which delighted them greatly. As noted above, the tour ran considerably behind the original schedule and ended after running about 45 minutes over time. Note) This course was somewhat demanding for those who found walking difficult. Had I known in advance about the walking difficulties, I could have considered an alternative course. (I had informed them beforehand that we would need to move somewhat briskly and would walk for about 30–45 minutes…)

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMotomachi～Maiko320JPY
    Section 2TrainMaiko～Sannomiya320JPY
    Total640JPY

    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

    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…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Diane_B
    Viator review: Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Yama was amazing!!
    Our tour guide…

    Jul 4, 2026
    Navigator661725
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful time!
    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Fukagawa Edo Museum

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Fukagawa Edo Museum

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up　ANA Inter Continental Tokyo
    • 10:50 Asakusa
    • 12:30 Yanaka Ginza lunch
    • 14:00 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 15:20 Fukagawa Edo Museum
    • 16:00 Kiyosumi-shirakawa Station　Dismissal

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour Like with a Licensed Guide? A Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace East Gardens and Fukagawa The guests were visitors from North America. It was an early summer day with temperatures exceeding 25 degrees Celsius, and since one of the guests seemed to have some difficulty walking, we took our time and used taxis when appropriate to keep the pace comfortable. One of the guests had a very strong interest in Japan and asked many questions about culture, history, and daily life. Our conversation flowed as I shared some materials along the way, and the guests appeared very satisfied. After finishing the tour of the Imperial Palace East Gardens, one of the guests became tired and returned to the hotel first by taxi. Afterward, I took the other guest to the Fukagawa Edo Museum, and they thanked me warmly for bringing them to such a wonderful place. At Kiyosumi-shirakawa Station, I received a generous word of thanks for the thoughtful guidance, and we said our goodbyes.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKamiyacho～Asakusa286JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Otemachi286JPY
    Total572JPY

    Tour Report by Kris

    My name is Kris,
    Before becoming a tour guide, I worked for a major steelmaking company as an engineer for many years. During my career, I lived and worked in both Germany and the United States for a total of five years. These experiences helped me understand different cultures and ways of thinking, which now helps me connect easily with guests from around the world.

    After retirement, I chose a second career as a tour guide because I truly enjoy meeting people from different countries and sharing Japanese culture, history, and daily life. I have been working as a guide for more than nine years and continue to enjoy every tour.

    I currently live in Tokyo, but I was born and raised in Kobe, near Osaka, and my family roots are in Kyoto. As a result, I have extensive knowledge not only of Tokyo but also of Kyoto, Osaka, and many other parts of Japan. I enjoy introducing both famous landmarks and hidden local gems that many visitors might otherwise miss.

    I am energetic, friendly, and very sociable. I always try to create tours that are relaxed, flexible, and tailored to my guests’ interests.

    Travel is one of my greatest passions, especially visiting hot spring resorts. I have visited more than 80 onsen destinations throughout Japan, giving me a deep appreciation of Japanese culture and regional traditions.

    Whether you are visiting Japan for the first time or returning for another adventure, I would be delighted to help you discover the real Japan from a local perspective.

    I look forward to meeting you and helping you create wonderful memories in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and beyond.

    See you in Japan!

    Kris

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    May 10, 2026
    Matt_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful Introduction to Tokyo
    We were so lucky to have Kris-San…

    Apr 29, 2026
    Rebecca_M
    Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour
    We had such a wonderful…

    Apr 21, 2026
    jacquir581
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We love Kris
    Kris was awesome! He was very flexible when our…

    Apr 2, 2026
    Frank_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A great day in Tokyo
    Great tour with an excellent guide, Kris.…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji jingu shrine & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji jingu shrine & Asakusa

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Hotel pickup
    • 10:15 Meiji jingu shrine
    • 11:00-13:00 Lunch at Shibuya
    • 13;30-14:00 Taukiji fish market
    • 14:30-15:30 Asakusa

    What Does a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report After the hotel pickup, the guests wanted to collect the Shinkansen tickets they had purchased online, so I guided them to the ticket machine at the JR ticket office. After that, we visited Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, Tsukiji, and Asakusa. The guests were very pleasant, and I was able to thoroughly enjoy the full-day tour. They especially loved the monjayaki restaurant in Shibuya and told me it was truly delicious. We ran out of time to visit the Nintendo shop in Shibuya, but since I shared the location on Google Maps, they said they would try to go there on their own.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Harajuku146JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku～Shibuya146JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya～Tsukiji209JPY
    Section 4TrainTsukiji～Asakusa286JPY
    Total787JPY

    Tour Report by Mami

    Hello! My name is Mami Ekuni, and I am a licensed English-speaking tour guide in Japan. With over 30 years of experience as a professional translator and more than a decade of guiding for international visitors, I am passionate about sharing the beauty, history, and culture of Japan with people from around the world. Guiding is more than just showing people around; it’s about creating memorable experiences. I strive to provide insightful, well-structured, and fun tours tailored to your interests. Whether you love history, food, architecture, or nature, I can customize a tour that suits your preferences.
    I look forward to welcoming you to Japan and sharing unforgettable moments together. Let’s explore this amazing country and create lasting memories!

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  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1030 HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU (8 min from JR Shinjuku Station) Meeting – 3D Cat Display from Godzilla Road
    • 1100 Shibuya Hachiko Statue Scramble Crossing
    • 1115 Harajuku Meiji Shrine Visit Takeshita Street
    • 1330 Tsukiji Outer Market (described later)
    • 1430 Escort to Meiji Jingumae Station and dismiss

    What's a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Tsukiji The guests were a group visiting from Oceania, arriving in Japan for the first time yesterday morning. Since they had some free time, they had tried to go to Shinjuku Gyoen but ended up heading in the opposite direction and went up to the observation deck at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. From there they spotted Shinjuku Central Park and visited it, but they seemed to realize it was not Shinjuku Gyoen. I gave them a Tokyo Travel Guide and explained the route to Shinjuku Gyoen, which they plan to visit tomorrow. Tomorrow they also plan to visit TeamLab Planets. One of the guests seemed quite shy and initially responded a bit reservedly. However, when I guided them to Takeshita Street, there was a complete transformation, and they mentioned there were about 20 shops they wanted to visit between Harajuku and Shibuya. It wasn't that they couldn't walk further, but when I asked what they would like to do about the planned visits to Tsukiji and the Imperial Palace Outer Garden, they said they especially wanted to go to Tsukiji, so I guided them there. At Tsukiji, they found strawberry daifuku, one of the items on their "things to do" list, and were very pleased. Since they did not eat fish, I had wondered about the seafood, but they did not necessarily want to eat it — they just wanted to see it. After this, the plan had been to finish at the Imperial Palace Outer Garden, but we skipped that, and I saw them off at Meiji-jingumae, where we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Shibuya167JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya～Harajuku146JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji Jingumae – Hibiya～Tsukiji209JPY
    Section 4TrainTsukiji – Hibiya～Meiji Jingumae209JPY
    Total731JPY

    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.

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shibuya

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shibuya

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 9:40 Asakusa (Kaminarimon, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Okuyama Oharai-machi, Shin-Nakamise)
    • 11:15 Shinjuku Gyoen Lunch @ Tsuburano
    • 13:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 13:45 Omotesando ~ Takeshita Street
    • 14:30 Shibuya (Hachiko ~ Scramble Crossing)
    • 15:00 Disband @ Center Gai Entrance

    What Does a Private Tokyo Day Tour Include? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Meiji Shrine The guests were a group visiting from North America, with prior experience of visiting Japan several times in the past. After confirming the itinerary agreed upon in advance, we purchased PASMO cards at Shimbashi Station and headed to Asakusa. Before 10:00, Asakusa was still relatively quiet, but the guests were surprised by how crowded it was compared to their earlier visits many years ago. In contrast, Shinjuku Gyoen had a calm atmosphere, and they enjoyed the Japanese garden section. At Meiji Shrine, we entered from the north approach and walked through the forest, which they found very relaxing. As they are a legally married couple, I took a photo of them by the paired camphor trees. These guests were also well aware of the story of "Hachi." Returning to Japan after a long time, the guests were impressed by the amount of English signage found throughout the city, but were disappointed by some behavior, such as people not acknowledging others after bumping into them, or not shifting over when an adjacent seat became free on the train. It was regrettable to see this side of things.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa Line Shimbashi～Asakusa Line Asakusa220JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa Line Asakusa～JR Sendagaya356JPY
    Section 3TrainJR Harajuku～JR Shibuya146JPY
    Total722JPY

    Tour Report by Hideki

    Hello! My name is Hideki Maruyama. I was born in Osaka and raised in the Greater Tokyo area. I obtained my National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate in February 2016.
    I spent 23 years working at a leading Japanese automotive company, including 7 years posted overseas. I then worked for a German premium automotive manufacturer for 13 years, followed by 6 years as an advisor to a British energy company. Through these roles at global corporations, I developed and refined key skills such as:
    1. Cross-cultural communication
    2. A deep understanding of business elites and affluent customers
    3. The ability to deliver impactful and impressive presentations in English
    In addition to my regular duties, I often served as an interpreter for top executives during meetings with foreign government officials. I also had opportunities to introduce aspects of Japan—such as our national character and consumer preferences—to leadership teams in both the German and British companies.
    As a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding guests from a wide range of countries especially after the pandemic, including the US, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Norway, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

    Request Booking

    Jun 14, 2026
    tiffany_w
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Phenomenal experiance
    Hideki san was an amazing guide. He was incredibly knowledgable…

    Jun 13, 2026
    Joshua_A
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The Best Guide I Had in Japan
    Hideki was, without question, my…

    May 2, 2026
    Bruce G
    Our guide (Hideki san) was a master. It was a rainy day and he suggested a new plan in anticipation…

    Apr 30, 2026
    johnbD9596UO
    Lovely Private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I had a great…

  • Kyoto: Honen-in Temple & Taizo-in Temple at Myoshin-ji

    Kyoto: Honen-in Temple & Taizo-in Temple at Myoshin-ji

    Kyoto Japanese Gardens Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo
    • 10:30 Honen-in Temple
    • 11:10 Ginkaku-ji Temple
    • 12:15 Lunch at Omen Ginkaku-ji branch
    • 13:40 Ryoan-ji Temple
    • 15:00 Taizo-in Temple at Myoshin-ji
    • 16:00 Disband in front of Taizo-in Temple at Myoshin-ji

    What Is a Private Kyoto Garden Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from Europe. They had already toured many of Kyoto's famous sights, and out of an interest in gardens, they had signed up for today's garden tour. At every location the number of tourists was small, which they were very pleased about. They seemed deeply impressed by everything: the tranquility and beautiful greenery of Honen-in, the perfected beauty of the Japanese garden at Ginkaku-ji, the beauty of the dry landscape garden at Ryoan-ji, and the contrast between the old and new garden styles at Taizo-in. I believe they also enjoyed their lunch at a restaurant near Ginkaku-ji.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Japanese Gardens Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    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…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM10:00 Meet at Hotel Campana Gojo
    • AM10:30 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • AM11:15 Nijo Castle
    • PM13:00 To-ji Temple
    • PM14:30 Disband at Nishiki Market

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nijo Castle, Toji, and the Imperial Garden The guests were visitors from Europe. They had a deep appreciation for Japanese culture, and I found them carefully observing the fine details of Japanese art and gardens. There were even moments when they made me notice things I had overlooked. At Nijo Castle, preparations for the Aoi Festival were underway, and the Imperial Palace was temporarily closed, so we ended up strolling through the Imperial Garden instead. At Toji Temple, however, we were fortunate that the interior of the five-story pagoda was open during a special viewing period, so we were able to enter. The guests were staying in Kyoto for eight nights and had prepared a list of planned destinations, so I recommended several additional places based on my own personal opinion. I could clearly sense their genuine desire to experience Japanese culture and customs.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGojo～Imadegawa260JPY
    Section 2SubwayImadegawa～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijojo-mae～Kyoto260JPY
    Section 4TrainKyoto～To-ji180JPY
    Section 5BusTo-ji-mae～Shijo-Karasuma230JPY
    Total1,150JPY

    Tour Report by Naoki

    I am Naoki Nakatani. I live in Osaka.
    I started tour guide from 2023 after 40 years
    work experience in Japanese manufacturing company. I am currently teaching Japanese as volunteer staff to foreign residents who live in my community. I have 11 and half years work experience in overseas office and I had interacted with people of foreign countries for a long time enjoying business and friendship with them. My guide experience is still short but I will provide my best service to the guests. I am in a position to prepare the itinerary if guests request and to send any information for the guest to make plan before visit to Japan.

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    Jul 11, 2026
    Trevor_F
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    Jun 6, 2026
    May_O
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful time in Kyoto
    We had a terrific time with Naoki. He…

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  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet @The Royal Park canvas→9:00 @Bamboo Grove Walk→9:20 @Tenryu-ji Sogenchi Garden→Togetsukyo Bridge (from vehicle)→10:00 @Ryoan-ji →11:00 @Kinkaku-ji → 11:50 Lunch @Washoku Sato Hirano Shrine Branch 13:00 @Nijo Castle →14:33 @Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit→14:36 Disband @Shinkansen Ticket Gate

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Taxi Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama, Nijo Castle, and a Day Trip Toward Himeji For today's itinerary, I had been asked more than a month in advance to propose some plans, so I offered four different itineraries. Last night the guests chose the itinerary above, and I guided them today. I had the taxi driver take us to the front of the Torokko Arashiyama Station, and while I guided the bamboo grove and the Sogenchi Garden at Tenryu-ji Temple, the driver waited at the Tenryu-ji parking lot. For lunch, the guests requested traditional Japanese food, but since Gontaro near Kinkaku-ji is closed on Wednesdays, we went to Washoku Sato instead. When I mentioned that this restaurant is a chain, the guests said that chain restaurants are not tasty, but added that this was the case in their home region, and we had lunch at Washoku Sato. Not only was it the first time the guests had eaten chawanmushi, but they had also never seen it before, so they first asked what it was. When I told them it was Japanese food, they said they had never seen it, and after tasting it they found it delicious and liked it. After the meal, their impression of Washoku Sato was that it was delicious, and they explained that the chain restaurants they found unappetizing were the ones back home. While I was guiding them at Nijo Castle, the guests said they wanted to get out of the taxi (end the tour) at Kyoto Station. When I asked why, they said they wanted to go to Himeji Castle. I told them that the last admission to Himeji Castle is until 16:00, but they still wanted to go. I helped them purchase non-reserved-seat limited express tickets so they could catch the 15:43 Shinkansen Hikari departing from Kyoto Station, and the tour ended there. The taxi driver said that although we went a little over time, there was no need to pay an extension fee. I have just received a message via a messaging app from the guests saying that they were able to enter Himeji Castle (they made it in time for the 4 o'clock admission).

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

    Tour Report by Keiko

    I am Keiko Ibuki, Goverment-Licensed Guide. I passed National Guide examination and registered in 2015. I started guiding job in 2016. I mainly guide Kansai area, especially Kyoto. From 2016 to 2019, I guided visitors from overseas about 50 days. In 2023, I guided visitors from overseas about 50 days. I passed 2nd grade of Kyoto Tourism and Culture examination in 2020. I passed National Examination for Certified Travel Supervisors in 1997. I can tailor my guided tour to meet your requirements. I would like to make your visit to Japan enjoyable and memorable.

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    May 15, 2025
    Christine_M
    There are SO many choices…
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
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    Dec 25, 2024
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    Well- planned, strong…

    Jul 31, 2024
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    Our tour guide Keiko was great.…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Ginza Station & Shinjuku Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Ginza Station & Shinjuku Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting point: Hotel ginza
    • 10:10 Depart Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 10:50 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Senso-ji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 11:50 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Nihombashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 12:00 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 13:00 Depart Nijubashimae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 13:20 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • 14:20 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • 14:50 Arrive Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • Shinjuku Shinjuku Golden Gai
    • Kabukicho
    • Omoide Yokocho
    • 16:00 Depart Shinjuku Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 16:30 Arrive Ginza Station
    • 16:30 Disband: Ginza Station

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and Shinjuku The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They had arrived the previous evening on a direct flight to Narita Airport, then transferred via the Narita Express and a taxi to their Hotel. They were on an extended trip through Japan, spending several days in Tokyo before continuing on to Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Hiroshima, then returning to Tokyo before heading home. They expressed a strong interest in Japanese culture and history, and wished to visit many temples, shrines, and castles. They also said they wanted to try and enjoy a variety of Japanese cuisine. It was a tour under clear skies, with weather warm enough to feel hot. We started at Asakusa, which as always was very crowded. Beginning in front of the Kaminarimon Gate, I explained the history of Sensoji Temple and the transition from Edo to Tokyo, the purpose of the five-story pagoda, the basics of Buddhism, and the differences between Buddhism and Shinto. We took commemorative photos in front of the Kaminarimon Gate and the five-story pagoda, and they purchased a good-luck charm for health. There were questions such as "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people follow?", and "Does everyone go to a temple every week?" They also asked, "We would like to buy a kimono as a souvenir—where should we go?" We then moved on to the Imperial Palace and strolled through the East Gardens. There were questions such as "When is the best time to see the cherry blossoms?" and "What flowers should we look for at this time of year?" I explained the history from the Edo period to the Meiji era, the Meiji Restoration, why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace, and why the capital moved from Kyoto to Tokyo. There were also questions such as "When did the samurai warriors come to hold power?", "Why did the Emperor and the samurai shogunate exist in parallel?", and "Does the current Emperor of Japan hold any political authority?" We continued on to Harajuku and Meiji Shrine. I explained about Shinto, the torii gates, Emperor Meiji, and why wine barrels are displayed there. There were also questions such as "What kind of teachings does Shinto have?" and "When and why did Shinto originate?" We took a break at Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu. We then headed to Shinjuku (the guests mentioned they would visit Shibuya on their own the following day). I explained the origins and history of Shinjuku and the differences between the east and west sides of the station. We walked around Shinjuku Golden Gai (mostly quiet, though a few groups of international travelers were strolling about), Kabukicho, the Godzilla Head, and Omoide Yokocho. They commented that "The atmosphere is completely different from Ginza and other parts of Tokyo" and that "It resembles Times Square in New York." They also made comments and asked questions such as: "It's amazing that there's no litter on the streets—it's completely different from other cities around the world; the streets back home are full of trash now," "Doesn't anyone throw trash on the ground?", "This was my first time riding the subway, and it was very comfortable and convenient—the public transportation network feels extremely well developed," and "Why are there no trash cans on the streets?" As the guests found it a little confusing to get back to their Hotel, I saw them off at Ginza Station, where we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGinza Station～Asakusa Station209JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa Station～Otemachi Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijubashimae Station～Meiji-jingumae Station209JPY
    Section 4SubwayMeiji-jingumae Station～Shinjuku-sanchome Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwayShinjuku Station～Ginza Station209JPY
    Total983JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

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    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
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    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
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    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
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    Jun 1, 2026
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