Mar 30, 2026
MrJames_L
Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
Great tour with Kaji
We had an excellent tour today in Kyoto at a number of different stops. We went to monkey park, bamboo Grove, tenryuji temple, Arashayama park and the Golden Temple. It was a packed schedule but our guide made sure we got everywhere and transited smoothly. He was also very helpful with our young kids and a food allergy. This was our third tour with JGA and we highly recommend them for Kyoto.

Jul 3, 2025
Radit T
Worthwhile private tour on our first full day in Kyoto!
Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
We had a wonderful day with Kaji and our driver seeing many sights during our first time in Kyoto!

To start, Japan Guide Agency (operator) went above and beyond to help us even have the tour on our requested day. Despite all of their regular rental vehicles being unavailable, they were able to secure a driver and minivan for the 5 of us and Kaji, our guide. Excellent communication and responsiveness by email as we worked through to resolve the challenge and confirmed the planned itinerary.

Kaji arrived at our hotel ahead of schedule to be ready for our pickup. From there, he led us with interesting facts and helpful tips to Tenryu-ji Temple, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Park, Nijo Castle, and a delicious casual udon lunch as requested at Tokutoku Fushimi Takeda. Lastly, we visited Fushimi Inari Taisha and for a bonus, quickly saw To-ji Temple before getting dropped back off at our hotel.

Overall, time and money well spent. We covered so much ground on this tour and it was a worthwhile experience with help from Kaji and our driver. Definitely recommend!

Jun 7, 2025
Lisa_H
Great tour guide and driver
Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
Overall a great experience. The team is extremely professional and knowledgeable of the Kyoto area. Having a driver was great in the heat and on getting around to the various stopping points efficiently. Our guide was also very helpful and knowledgeable of each place we visited and knew of appropriate spots for pictures, info etc.

Great experience overall.

Sep 29, 2026
Darrin_T
Tokyo Tour with Rumi
Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Local tour guide Rumi took us on an efficient and enjoyable afternoon tour. Very much enjoyed it and would absolutely recommend the tour

Sep 29, 2026
anettesoegaardn
Rumi Hosoya is a very good tour-guide.
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
Our guide was Rumi Hosoya, and it was a real pleasure. She introduced us to Japaneese culture and was a very skilled guide, indeed.

Sep 25, 2026
Frances_K
Rumi was a wonderful…
Viator review: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
Rumi was a wonderful guide that provided a comprehensive overview and tour of the highlights of Tokyo, navigating the complex subway system with ease. It was a long day but well worth it!

Sep 19, 2026
K6328IFcarolinel
Tokyo highlights
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Had a great day
Rumi was very knowledgeable and took us to major tourist attractions like Meiji Shrine Senso ji temple as well as Gina shopping district. She helped us navigate the confusing train and subway system

Apr 9, 2026
X1429XKclaudiam
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Sehr zu empfehlen
Wir haben als Familie diese 6-stundige Tour durch Kyoto mit unserem Guide Toshi verbracht. Er hat uns so viel Hintergrundwissen zu den einzelnen Sehenswurdigkeiten und daruber hinaus vermittelt! Wir haben in den 6 Stunden 4 Spots erreichen konnen.
Diese Tour durch Kyoto konnen wir jedem zum Einstieg in die Kultur, Religion und Tradition nur empfehlen. Wir wurden sie jederzeit wieder buchen.

とてもおすすめです
私たちは家族で、ガイドのトシさんと一緒に京都の6時間ツアーに参加しました。彼は各観光地についての背景知識だけでなく、それ以上に多くのことを教えてくれました！6時間の中で、4つのスポットを訪れることができました。
この京都ツアーは、日本の文化・宗教・伝統を知る入門として、どなたにも強くおすすめできます。ぜひまた参加したいと思える内容でした。

Jun 28, 2025
WilliamAlfonso_R
Toshi is a very eloquent, knowledgeable, and diligent tour guide.
Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Toshi was very eloquent, knowledgeable, and patient. He diligently guided us through the Deer Park and various important Buddhist and Shinto landmarks in the area. He answered each question with clear detail. We often saw other tourists trying to overhear the historical context explanations he shared. We were very lucky to have him.

May 30, 2025
Z
ZevP5
Best Tour Guide!
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Yoshi was the best guide!! He was so kind, patient and knowledgeable. He took us on a very
fun tour filled with detailed knowledge of each location and patience to answer all of our
questions including my two kids.

※こちら、「Yoshi」との記載がございますが、ゲストのニックネーム「ZevP5」およびレビュー内容より、吉川様にご担当いただいた案件（JGA-T93795962）と一致すると判断し、お送りさせていただきました。
万が一お心当たりがない場合は、お手数ですがご放念いただけますと幸いです。

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 highly knowledgeable.
Highly recommend this tour!!!!

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 Taguchi and were impressed by how much we were able to see and learn in that time. Traveling as a group of seven adults, we visited Kasuga Taisha, enjoyed lunch at Mizuya Chaya, and explored Tōdai-ji—including the Great Buddha Hall and surrounding grounds. We also spent time at Yoshikien Garden and Irie Taikichi Memorial Museum of Photography, along with encounters with Nara’s famous bowing deer.

Junichi shared clear, informative context throughout the day, adding depth to each stop without ever feeling overwhelming. His pacing was thoughtful, and he kept our group moving smoothly while still allowing time to take things in.

A well-organized and engaging tour—highly recommend Junichi for anyone visiting Nara.

Apr 11, 2026
64sandig
Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Osaka DEP. with Licensed Guide
????? Absolutely Outstanding ? Junichi Made Our Nara Day Unforgettable!
We had the pleasure of touring Nara with Junichi today, and he was simply phenomenal from the very first moment! Warm, welcoming, and a true professional, Junichi made us feel instantly at ease. His genuine enthusiasm and excellent English made every part of the day enjoyable and easy to follow.
Junichi’s knowledge is encyclopedic, yet he explains everything in such a clear, engaging, and understandable way. At Kofuku-ji Temple, he brought the history and significance of the site to life with fascinating details. We then enjoyed a relaxing lunch together before heading to Nara Park, where we had the delightful experience of feeding the famous bowing deer ? such a fun and memorable moment!
What really stood out was how flexible and attentive Junichi was. When we felt a bit pressed for time, he smoothly adjusted the itinerary and took us to a wonderful sake tasting facility instead of the next temple. We sampled several excellent sakes and couldn’t resist taking some home with us! From there, he led us to an incredible traditional kitchen knife shop run by an artisan whose family has been crafting blades for 750 years (originally making samurai swords). The craftsmanship was breathtaking, and we ended up purchasing a beautiful knife.
Later, Junichi took us to see an original Japanese merchant’s house, which was a real eye-opener ? the minimalistic lifestyle and beautiful architecture were fascinating.
The entire day was perfectly paced, insightful, and filled with wonderful surprises. Junichi’s caring attitude, deep knowledge, and ability to adapt made this one of the best private tour experiences we’ve ever had. We are so grateful we got to spend the day with him.
If you’re visiting Nara, do yourself a favor and book with Junichi ? you won’t regret it! He’s an absolute gem.
Highly, highly recommended ? 5 stars without hesitation!

Mar 30, 2026
dpadillachavez
Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
Great day at Nara!
Best tour on Nara, Junichi is great during the tour! He definitely knows and shows the best
parts of the city.

Jul 26, 2026
Edward_H
Viator review: Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour, Licensed Guide
The only way to tour if…
The only way to tour if you have mobility issues or want a freestyle itinerary set on your pace. Our driver Yusaku Abe was so extremely helpful and attentive. From loading and unloading the wheelchair to finding just the perfect spot to enter/exit the taxi safety. His vehicle was spotless and he was the best driver. After the first stop he felt like family and he had our best interest and safety at heart. He was a true pleasure. Our licensed guide interpreter Akahori Atsuko was number 1 from pick up at the port to drop off at the ship – a true blessing. She customized our itinerary to our interests and also mobility constraints. Every stop was as explained to us and we had ample time to view and see what we wanted. We even had time at the Shizuoka City Museum of Art to complex a hands on piece of Japanese art. Our favorite stop was the Mt Fuji World Heritage Centre and the close by temple and ponds. We ended the day at a local family restaurant for lunch and both Akahori and Yusaku made our day – we all had become family on this day. As we told them both – Aloha Nui Loa A Hui Hou!

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

Use public transit and visit local exhibit of My Fuji and had a great guide also!

Apr 14, 2026
Bret_F
Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
Great Shizuoka Area Experience
We enjoyed a memorable day with Acchan, our guide! Although the weather was unfavorable and we did not get good views of Mt Fuji, we learned a lot about the history and the surrounding area. Perhaps our favorite part of the trip was lunch at a Japanese restaurant just talking and learning about the Japanese culture and language. We also toured the grounds and gardens at Sumpu Castle, ending our day with the best matcha ice cream. Thanks for a great tour, Acchan!

Mar 27, 2026
James_M
Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
Loved are guide.
Great tour guide. We loved her and she accommodated all are requests. Would definitely
recommend her.

May 12, 2025
andrewgT8079NS
Wonderful guide and magical scenery and locations.
Tripadvisor review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip with Government Licensed Guide
Wonderful, interesting and very helpful guide Hira. Our hike along the trail was tailored to our level of experience.
Our guide showed us many beautiful and magical scenic locations around the Kumano Kodo trail.

Apr 29, 2025
farmahel
A truly magnificent journey through the Kumano Kodo with a wonderfully kind Hira
Tripadvisor review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip with Government Licensed Guide

Our private tour of the Kumano Kodo sacred sites and pilgrimage routes was an unforgettable experience, largely thanks to our truly kind and attentive guide, Yauso Hiraishi(Hira). This journey perfectly blended cultural immersion with breathtaking natural beauty.
Hira expertly guided us through the ancient trails of the Kumano Kodo, sharing insightful knowledge about the history and spiritual significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Visiting Nachi Falls was a definite highlight, its majestic cascade a powerful symbol within the pilgrimage landscape.
The tour also offered stunning diversity in its scenery. We were treated to magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean from the coast, a refreshing contrast to the serene beauty of the mountain trails. The paths themselves were a joy to walk, winding through lush forests and offering a true sense of being on a historic pilgrimage.
Throughout the tour, Hira’s kindness and genuine enthusiasm shone through. He was not only knowledgeable but also incredibly thoughtful, ensuring we were comfortable and engaged every step of the way. His passion for the region and its history was infectious, enriching our understanding and appreciation of the Kumano Kodo.
For anyone seeking a deeply rewarding and beautifully scenic exploration of Japan’s spiritual heartland, a private tour like this with a guide as kind and capable as Hira comes highly recommended. It was a perfect blend of physical activity, cultural learning, and natural wonder, all enhanced by the personal touch of an exceptional guide.
Thank you Hira 😉

Apr 27, 2025
Sofia_N
Had a great time. Guide…
Viator review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip with Government Licensed Guide
Had a great time. Guide very helpful and great at telling the history about the places we
visited. And showed some local locations.

Mar 23, 2025
G
GoPlaces681850
Wonderful time with a local.
Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
Our guide, Hira, was a super nice man. We got to see so many beautiful places that we would otherwise have missed on our own. He got to the meeting location early and waited patiently for our arrival. He also arranged to make sure my husband was able to have a gluten-free lunch. He never rushed us along and waited for us to enjoy the site and to take many pictures. Although we had some communication barriers but we managed to understand each other. We loved Koyasan and had a wonderful time. We also really enjoyed meeting a local from the Wakayama prefecture.

Sep 29, 2026
H1282JBkarinas
Customizable tour with Harumi-san
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
We had an amazing tour with Harumi in Kyoto. From the moment she was paired as our guide, she contacted us to personalize the daytrip. She shared great suggestions and ideas for the tour.
During the tour, she shared so much information about Japan, the history, culture, and meanings. So informative and thoughtful.

We had an amazing time with her and would highly highly recommend.

Sep 28, 2026
Coastal07335209891
Kobe Delight with Harumi
Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
Our tour was definitely customized and our guide Harumi was excellent! Leading up to our excursion she involved us in selecting options of things to do. She communicated clearly about meeting point and tips to bring so we would be prepared for the possibility of rain. Harumi was very knowledgeable on the places we visited and we learned a great deal about Japanese customs and traditions. The beginning of our tour we spent time exploring Kitano – cho foreign district. At the Shrine, Harumi shared key information about the gods and demonstrated how make a wish. We had the opportunity to eat lunch at a sushi bar where you order a selection of Japanese foods and experience eating with chopsticks! Motomachi Shopping district was a great place to spend the afternoon after our tour. What a wonderful experience!

Sep 27, 2026
kakeelma
Learning is fun with Harumi san!
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
My husband and I booked a private tour and car to visit places on the outskirts of Kyoto. Our tour guide, Harumi Sagayama, not only provided a wealth of knowledge about our stops but also about the culture, history and politics of Kyoto. She was also critical on helping us narrow down the choices available to us. Our driver, Suzuki san, provided an impeccably clean, safe and comfortable ride as well. Absolutely delightful all around.

Sep 23, 2026
Cosmopolitan580857
We had a great time! Kyoto is a beautiful city.
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
Harumi and Kouzo San were very nice and constantly checked how we were doing.
Our party had one member using a mobility scooter and they made sure she was taken care of and was comfortable all the time. She even played a traditional Japanese game with us in the car before we got dropped off and this completed a most memorable and enjoyable time with them.

Jul 13, 2025
H2enjoy
Wonderful Day Trip to Mt. Koya from the Osaka Cruise Terminal
Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Licensed Guide
Japan Guide Agency guide Hiro did an excellent job in escorting my wife and I for a day tour to Mt. Koya, from the Osaka Cruise Terminal. We enjoyed the sanctity of the Mt. Koya area, the peaceful shrines, and the forests of tall trees. Hiro had all the transportation well designed-out, and was able to get us back to the Osaka cruise terminal at the time I had requested. Very satisfied with his service.

Jun 20, 2025
zoranm709
Kyoto great tour experience.
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Enjoyed the sites we were taken. Hiro was very humble person. Under the extreme heat
conditions Hiro was very thoughtful & helpful. Thank you Hiro for today we appreciate your
time. Regards Markovski Family.

Jun 18, 2025
Adventurer310309
Cool surprises on our Osaka and Kyoto tours with Hiro.
Tripadvisor review: Osaka 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
My wife and I enjoyed not one by TWO full day tours with Hiro, one in Osaka and one in Kyoto. Hiro knows his stuff and passed along a lot of interesting history. In both cases he came prepared with detailed itineraries including public transit times to make sure we hit all the sites we most wanted to see. When rain became a factor in Kyoto, he adjusted our schedule to optimize for the weather – indoors during heaviest rain and outdoors when weather improved. In Kyoto, he warned us away from eating in one tourist area and instead found an amazing noodle shop for lunch, a completely unique experience. In Osaka, when we found one site he had chosen for us closed – the Museum of Housing & Life – he proposed another site that proved to be very nice. We went to the museum on our own the next day and found it fascinating and fun. He also took us to an outstanding okonomikayi place for lunch. Friendly, well-organized and accommodating, we really enjoyed our tours with Hiro.

May 26, 2025
SK G
Excellent tour
Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
Mr. Hiro provided an excellent experience. Personable and professional, he accommodated all our expectations.

Highly recommended!

※JGA-T91258451でご案内いただいたゲスト(Grayson, Scott)様からのレビューと思われます。
万が一お心当たりがない場合は、お手数ですがご放念いただけますと幸いです。

Sep 27, 2026
Ross_W
Fun with Hidden Gems
Viator review: Osaka Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour, Licensed Guide
Our guide Yama was so friendly and greeted us in our hotel lobby and guided us from there to the areas we wished to experience. While we were really needing to find gifts for us and friends, he made it very interesting along the way pointing out special places and landmarks. We went to the culinary shopping and visited a number of shops and he helped translate, which we needed. We went to an area for animae and it was eye opening. We then went to the black gate market, Kuromon, for a lunch experience and wow that was so much fun, I only wish I could have tried more food items, but we were full! Last we expended the shopping area. All I can say is it is busy and lots of stores. We finished on the base of a department store, enjoyed with are great guide.

Aug 10, 2026
Sez042
Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
Great experience
Yama was great, he showed us around and explained everything very well. Highly recommend, very knowledgeable

Jul 25, 2026
Hdixjdixj
Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
We were taken care of by Yama-San. We had an amazing time and probably ate the best Tuna ever in our lives. Yama-san really knew where to take us and also gave us some historical backgrounds in general. We can only recommend this Tour as a 5 Star tour. All the places he took us too where amazing and the food so super delicious.

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 Mr. Yamashita was absolutely wonderful from start to finish! He was incredibly knowledgeable, friendly and engaging and he shared so much fascinating history and information throughout the tour. His passion for Himeji Castle and the gardens really showed and he made the experience both educational and fun while taking the time to answer all of our questions. We thoroughly enjoyed our time with Mr. Yamashita and would highly recommend his tour to anyone looking for a memorable and informative experience.

Jul 21, 2026
scottsD8777AR
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
Great Touring Tokyo
Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly appreciated his knowledge of the history of Tokyo and Japan and his very pleasant demeanor. He is a true gentleman and was a pleasure to tour with in Tokyo.

Jul 9, 2026
Quest36994121691
First visit to Tokyo
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
This was our first visit to Tokyo, and our tour with Koba made the experience truly exceptional. We’re a family of four with two teenage boys (14 and 16), and Koba was wonderfully kind, patient, and engaging with each of us. The experience started even before we arrived—his first communications laid out a thoughtful, customized itinerary that perfectly matched our interests as first-time visitors. Our six hours together were full, seamless, and incredibly rewarding. Koba’s deep knowledge of the city, his attention to detail, and his warm, easygoing approach made the tour an ideal fit for our family. It was the perfect way to get a broad yet meaningful introduction to Tokyo in a short time. We’re so grateful he was our guide and highly recommend him to anyone visiting the city.

Jul 8, 2026
Χρονης Π
A beautiful tour
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
It was a perfect experience see learned a lot about Tokyo and our guide Koba was perfect in every way and very helpful. We had a perfect time together.Thank you Koba

Jul 5, 2026
I3699SBjonathanw
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
6hr Tokyo guide great experience
Koba was so nice to my family and I. He was patient and helped carry a large toy my daughter won. I wished we had another day. Having a guide saved us hours of navigating the subway and metro.