Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji & Sanjusangendo

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji & Sanjusangendo

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meeting Double Tree by Hilton
    • 10:30 to 11:30 Kinkaku-ji
    • 12:40 to 13:30 Lunch (Yakitori)
    • 13:30 to 14:20 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 14:40 to 15:30 Sanjusangendo
    • 15:40 Dismissal Shichijo Keihan Station

    Title: What Is a Private Full-Day Tour in Japan Like on a Guest's Final Day? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from Europe. They had enjoyed about two weeks of sightseeing in Japan, and were planning to return to Tokyo tomorrow before heading home, so they said that today was their last day of sightseeing in Japan and that they wanted to make the most of it. Their home region is colder than Japan, but they mentioned that the difference in temperature between morning and evening is not as extreme there, and one of the guests had come down with a bit of illness while in Japan. Even so, since it was their final day of sightseeing in Japan, they did their best to stay with me until the scheduled end of the tour. I truly hope it became a wonderful memory for them.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKiyomizu-Gojo Station～Keihan Sanjo Station170JPY
    Section 2SubwayKeihan Sanjo～Nishioji Oike260JPY
    Section 3BusNishioji Oike～Kinkaku-ji-michi230JPY
    Section 4BusKinkaku-ji-michi～Nishinokyo Enmachi230JPY
    Section 5TrainEnmachi～Inari200JPY
    Total1,090JPY

    Tour Report by Haru

    Personal data
    Born in : May 1st, 1957
    Hobby : Visiting scenic places,
    historic spots, Japanese
    gardens and old townscape
    Former career : Worked for electric
    company and engaged in
    international sales for
    about 40 years.
    Travel history in the former career :
    Visited about 20 countries about 200 times

    Career as guide interpreter
    Acquisition of guide license : 2016
    Career of guide : 8 years
    Genre of my specialty :
    Japanese historic structures such as
    temple, shrine, castle and garden.
    Area of guide : Kyoto, Nara, Osaka &
    Himeji

    Let’s enjoy Japan with me !!

    Request Booking

    Dec 30, 2024
    shannono1010
    Haru is a Rock Star
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a fantastic guide. He explained…

    Dec 29, 2024
    Ali O
    Amazing!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was amazing on our tour of Nara. He was…

    Dec 4, 2024
    D5658ZEjohnr
    Trip to some of the Kyoto sites on our visit to Japan.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with…

    Dec 3, 2024
    Charlie_Jane00
    Kyoto Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a well organised and very informative guide. He…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①8:00 Meet at the hotel, travel to Yoyogi by subway
    • ②8:20〜9:10 Meiji Shrine
    • ③9:10〜9:40 Travel to Nezu by subway
    • ④9:40〜11:00 Nezu Shrine
    • ⑤11:00〜11:20 Travel to Asakusa by taxi
    • ⑥11:20〜12:00 Lunch at Kamiya Bar
    • ⑦12:00〜13:20 Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, etc.
    • ⑧13:25〜14:10 Sumida River Cruise
    • ⑨14:10〜14:30 Travel from Hamamatsucho Station to Tokyo Station, disband (Guests to head to the Nihonbashi Pokemon Center with a 16:00 reservation)

    What Can You See on a Private Day Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Asakusa, and a Sumida River Cruise The guest was visiting Japan for the first time from North America and was staying in Tokyo for two weeks. Today's itinerary covered Meiji Shrine, Asakusa, and Nezu, all requested in advance, along with a Sumida River cruise. At Meiji Shrine and Asakusa, the guest purchased many amulets and drew omikuji fortunes, showing keen interest in Japanese shrines and temples and appearing very satisfied. At Nezu Shrine, an azalea festival was being held during this season, and under fine weather today, the guest was delighted by the azaleas in full bloom. This is a highly recommended spot for this time of year. The water bus was also well received, and we parted ways cheerfully at Tokyo Station.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTochomae～Yoyogi180JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nezu210JPY
    Section 3OtherAsakusa～Hinode Pier1,000JPY
    Section 4TrainHamamatsucho～Tokyo170JPY
    Total1,560JPY

    Tour Report by SAM

    Hello! I am Osamu Kitagawa , National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter(English). Please call me SAM.
    I love Japanese culture, history, and visiting historical places, scenic spots, and fashionable spots as well. I can guide you all over Japan as I have ever visited all prefectures in Japan. I have a global experience in international banking business including residing in Hong Kong and Jakarta. So I’m able to have daily conversations in Indonesian language, too. I’m looking forward to seeing you soon!

    Certification
    Certified Travel Services Manager
    Authorized Tour Conductor
    Kyoto Expert Certification

    Request Booking

    Jul 23, 2026
    svendulrikr
    Tripadvisor review: Nara Day Trip from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide
    Best of Nara
    Amazing trip to Nara with the most…

    Jul 10, 2026
    valerianos862
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Private tour of Tokyo.
    Our guide Sam is very…

    Jun 20, 2026
    Sarah B
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learned how to ride the trains and we went to…

    Apr 14, 2026
    MDMallory
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama and Kamakura 6hr Private Trip Government-Licensed Guide
    The Natural Beauty of Kamakura
    Our guide, Sam, was very knowledgeable…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00　Meet as planned at Hotel Kyoto
    • 10:45　Fushimi Inari sightseeing
    • 12:30　Nijo Castle sightseeing
    • 13:30　Lunch at Shinkyogoku
    • 14:30　Gion Tatsumi Bridge, Yasui Konpira, Hokanji Temple
    • 16:00　End of duties at Kyoto Station

    What's a One-Day Private Kyoto Tour from Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report On a day in April 2025, I met the guests as planned in the second-floor lobby of a hotel in Kyoto. The guests were visitors from Oceania. After introducing myself and reviewing the day's itinerary, we started the tour. Since the guests had brought suitcases, we stored their luggage in a coin locker near Kyoto Station before setting off. The guests were staying in Osaka and wished to see Kyoto efficiently in a short amount of time. We purchased ICOCA cards at Kyoto Station, though we had to wait in a fairly long line to do so. We then took the JR line to Inari Station and visited Fushimi Inari Taisha. I explained the origins and history of the shrine, as well as the differences between Shinto and Buddhism, and had them try the "Omokaru-ishi" stone. They also enjoyed buying protective charms and were very pleased. Next, I guided them to Nijo Castle, where I introduced the establishment of the Tokugawa shogunate, the structure of samurai government, and samurai culture. For lunch, in response to their request to "eat somewhere locals go," I took them to a set-meal restaurant in Shinkyogoku. The guests enjoyed nabeyaki udon and katsudon, and they kindly treated me to a bowl of udon as well. In the afternoon, we strolled through Gion and visited Yasui Konpiragu and Hokanji Temple (the Yasaka Pagoda). Afterward, we returned to Kyoto Station and concluded the tour. At the farewell, I gave detailed directions on how to travel to their hotel in Namba, Osaka, and also advised on how to access Nara, which was on their itinerary for the following day. Finally, I saw them off on the platform at Kyoto Station, waving with smiles until the special rapid train bound for Osaka departed. The weather was pleasant that day, and the guests asked many questions, which I answered one by one, making it a warm and enjoyable tour from start to finish.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari～Sanjo220JPY
    Section 3TrainSanjo Keihan～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 4TrainNijojo-mae～Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae220JPY
    Section 5TrainKyoto Shiyakusho-mae～Sanjo220JPY
    Section 6TrainSanjo～Gion-Shijo170JPY
    Total1,200JPY

    Tour Report by Don

    Hello! I’m Don, a Kyoto native with 20 years of experience in Vancouver’s travel industry. Now back in Japan, I work as a tour guide interpreter, sharing my love for Kyoto and the Kansai region with visitors from around the world. I use visual aids and storytelling to make each experience both engaging and informative, and I’m always exploring new places to deepen my local knowledge.

    In Kyoto, I often guide guests through iconic sites like Nijo Castle, Fushimi Inari Shrine, the Bamboo Forest in Arashiyama, and Tenryu-ji Temple. We may also visit Nara Park and Todai-ji Temple in nearby Nara. In Osaka, popular stops include Osaka Castle, the vibrant streets of Dotonbori, and the historic Tsutenkaku Tower. For those interested in Japanese pop culture, I can introduce you to Maid Cafes, the Manga Museum, Crane Game Centers, the Pokémon Center, and karaoke spots.

    I also offer a taste of local life by taking guests to a variety of dining experiences — from high-end wagyu restaurants to casual izakayas and ramen shops. If you’re interested, I can accompany male clients to traditional onsen or sento baths and, in the evenings, to piano bars and other nightlife venues.

    Outside of work, I value time with my family. I have a wonderful wife and two daughters. One of them is currently studying international relations at a university in Tokyo, while the other is a high school student here in Kyoto. Family life is very important to me, and I believe that warmth and connection are key, not only in family but also in travel.

    Whether you’re here to see the famous sights or to experience the everyday life of Kansai, I’d be honoured to be your guide. Let’s make unforgettable memories together!

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    Mar 30, 2025
    Cruiser537584
    Much Deeper Understanding of Japan
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Our guide, Takeshi…

    Mar 30, 2025
    sallybV2617DS
    Kyoto Temples and Shrines
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    We had the best…

    Mar 23, 2025
    jefferyo2025
    Amazing and Informative 6hr Kyoto tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Don Tanaka did an amazing job…

    Dec 26, 2024
    allisonj994
    Highly recommend!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wow, our guide, Don Tanaka was absolutely incredible. He knows…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Harukas Garden & Sumiyoshi Taisha

    Osaka in Half a Day: Harukas Garden & Sumiyoshi Taisha

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ Citadines Namba Osaka
    • 10:30-11:30 @ Osaka Castle, Hokoku Shrine
    • 11:55-12:05 @ Harukas Garden
    • 12:30-13:20 @ Sumiyoshi Taisha
    • 13:50-14:10 @ Dotonbori, Hozenji
    • 14:20 Disband @ Citadines Namba Osaka

    What Is a 4-Hour Private Walking Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania who arrived in Japan the day before the tour. The rain that fell the night before had cleared by morning, and we were able to enjoy a pleasant walk in the fresh, clear air. Since they would be staying in Osaka and wanted to get a general sense of the city through a 4-hour tour, so that they could later revisit the places and shops they liked at their own pace, I introduced shops and restaurants they might enjoy as we visited each spot. Tomorrow they plan to sightsee in Kyoto by bus, and afterward they intend to travel via Hiroshima to visit relatives before returning home.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNamba～Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 2TrainOsakajokoen～Tennoji180JPY
    Section 3TrainTennoji-ekimae～Sumiyoshitoriimae240JPY
    Section 4TrainSumiyoshi Taisha～Nankai Namba240JPY
    Total900JPY

    Tour Report by Sachiko

    I’m Sahiko Ogura, Sachiko literally means ‘happy child’, please call me Sachiko or Sachi for short. I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been guide for 6 years mainly in Osaka, Kyoto and Nara after having worked far trading company. I love traveling and visited about 30 countries, where I had a great time and experienced something new and exciting. I also like sports, tea ceremony and gardening, I’m growing veritable and flower in my garden. Please let me know your interest and anything what you would like to do during your tour. I’m happy to make an itinerary customized for you.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you and exploring in my home town!

    Request Booking

    Jul 30, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We spent half…

    Jul 12, 2026
    angiegI1120DY
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great tour! Great guide!
    Sachi was a great guide. She customized…

    Jul 8, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    We Miss Osaka Already
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sachiko O. was our guide…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Relax64382499520
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A memorable experience!
    Wonderful experience with an amazing guide! Ms. Sachiko Ogura,…

  • Aichi: Atsuta Shrine & Tokugawa Garden

    Aichi: Atsuta Shrine & Tokugawa Garden

    Nagoya / Aichi Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ Nikko Style Nagoya
    • 10:40 Atsuta Shrine
    • 11:00 Osu Shopping District
    • 12:00 Lunch @ Osu Shopping District
    • 13:00 Nagoya Castle
    • 14:30 Tokugawa Garden
    • 16:00 Dismiss @ Nikko Style Nagoya

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Nagoya Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America. They were interested in Japanese history and culture, and listened to my explanations with great interest. At Atsuta Shrine, I talked about the history of how the shrine came to be. At Osu Shopping Street, we covered food culture and anime. At Nagoya Castle, I explained the samurai and the functions and roles of the castle. At Tokugawaen Garden, we discussed a wide range of topics spanning nature and history. They asked questions at each site, and after I answered them, they were very satisfied. At the end, they said they would like to come to Japan again to experience various aspects of its culture, and with that we concluded the tour.

    Click here for more details: Nagoya / Aichi Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayInternational Center～Atsuta Jingu Nishi620JPY
    Section 2SubwayOsu Kannon～Nagoya Castle0JPY
    Section 3BusCity Hall～Tokugawa Shindeki0JPY
    Section 4BusTokugawa Shindeki～International Center0JPY
    Total620JPY

    Tour Report by Yoshi

    Welcome to Japan! My name is Ryota Tsuchiya, and I am honored to be your guide during your journey in Japan.

    With a deep passion for Japanese culture, history, and craftsmanship, I specialize in creating immersive travel experiences that go beyond sightseeing. My tours are designed to introduce you to the true essence of Japan—through hands-on experiences, engaging storytelling, and personal connections with local artisans and experts.

    I have lived and studied abroad, gaining a deep appreciation for cross-cultural exchange. This background allows me to bridge the gap between Japan and international visitors, making history and traditions more accessible and enjoyable for you.

    Based in Nagoya, I offer exclusive tours across central Japan, including Aichi, Gifu, Mie, and Shiga. Whether you are interested in exploring historic castles, learning traditional calligraphy, visiting artisan workshops, or experiencing local festivals, I guide each tour to match your interests and curiosity.

    My goal is to ensure that your journey is not only memorable but also meaningful. I want you to leave Japan with a deeper understanding of its culture and a collection of unforgettable experiences.

    Let’s embark on an extraordinary journey together. I look forward to sharing the wonders of Japan with you!

    Request Booking

    Jul 14, 2025
    wuschaefer
    A wonderful hike with stunning views
    Tripadvisor review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Trail Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a…

    Jul 11, 2025
    cindydZ5063DM
    Amazing
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was very knowledgeable, gracious and friendly. My day…

    Jul 8, 2025
    Amanda_P
    Nagoya
    Viator review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    The tour was amazing!!! Yoshi contacted us right away…

    Jul 4, 2025
    844roryb
    Nakasendo day hike
    Tripadvisor review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing walk along an ancient route…

  • Osaka in One Day: Shitennoji Temple & Shinsekai

    Osaka in One Day: Shitennoji Temple & Shinsekai

    Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ Courtyard ShinOsaka station
    • 9;40-11:00 @ Osaka Castle, Hokoku Shrine
    • 11:30-12:10 @ Break (cafe near Shitennoji Temple)
    • 12:20-13:40 @ Shitennoji Temple
    • 14:10-15:00 @ Kuromon Market
    • 15:15:15:30 @ Shinsekai
    • 15:30 Disband @ Shinsekai

    Title: What's a Family-Friendly Private Osaka Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from North America. They had lived in Tokyo for a while some years earlier, but this was their first visit to Osaka. Their wish was for a tour that would introduce Japanese culture while also being enjoyable for a young child in the group. At the Shudokan in Osaka Castle, a kendo competition among high school students happened to be taking place, and one of the guests, who practices karate, was fascinated. Some kind high school students lent their protective gear so the guest could pose for a photo together, which brought great delight. In addition, a large secondhand book festival was being held at Shitennoji Temple, where the guests purchased several ukiyo-e woodblock prints. They had enjoyed the secondhand book markets in the Kanda area of Tokyo during their earlier stay, and were pleased to be able to experience something similar again on this trip.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShin-Osaka～Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 3SubwayShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka～Nipponbashi190JPY
    Section 4SubwayNipponbashi～Ebisucho190JPY
    Total810JPY

    Tour Report by Sachiko

    I’m Sahiko Ogura, Sachiko literally means ‘happy child’, please call me Sachiko or Sachi for short. I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been guide for 6 years mainly in Osaka, Kyoto and Nara after having worked far trading company. I love traveling and visited about 30 countries, where I had a great time and experienced something new and exciting. I also like sports, tea ceremony and gardening, I’m growing veritable and flower in my garden. Please let me know your interest and anything what you would like to do during your tour. I’m happy to make an itinerary customized for you.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you and exploring in my home town!

    Request Booking

    Jul 30, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We spent half…

    Jul 12, 2026
    angiegI1120DY
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great tour! Great guide!
    Sachi was a great guide. She customized…

    Jul 8, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    We Miss Osaka Already
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sachiko O. was our guide…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Relax64382499520
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A memorable experience!
    Wonderful experience with an amazing guide! Ms. Sachiko Ogura,…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Shitennoji Temple & Shinsekai

    Osaka in Half a Day: Shitennoji Temple & Shinsekai

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 14:30 Meeting point: Agora Place Osaka Namba
    • 15:00 Sightseeing ①: Shitennoji Temple
    • 16:15 Sightseeing ②: Osaka Castle
    • 17:30 Sightseeing ③: Shinsekai
    • 18:30 Dismissal: Subway – Ebisucho Station

    # What's a Private Afternoon Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, and Shitennoji The guests this time were a family visiting Japan from North America for sightseeing. I handled the prior communication and itinerary planning mainly with one of the guests. Their wishes for the itinerary were very clear: they were interested in the culture and food of Osaka, and their desired destinations were (1) Osaka Castle, (2) Dotonbori, and (3) Shitennoji — very straightforward. However, since we were starting at 2:30 p.m., there was a risk of not making it in time for the closing of Shitennoji (4:30 p.m. at this time of year) if we were not careful, so the itinerary was finalized as "Shitennoji ⇒ Osaka Castle ⇒ Dotonbori." On the day, although the temperature was a little low, the weather was clear and perfect for the tour. The group arrived about 10 minutes later than the appointed time, but all of them showed up in good spirits. Before meeting me at the Hotel, the guests had made the most of every spare moment sightseeing, and told me they had already walked around Dotonbori, which was very close to the Hotel. After a short break, we arrived at the third (and final) destination and discussed the plan, and in the end decided to go to Shinsekai, which was also near the Hotel. We used the subway for all travel between destinations, but transfers and the walking time to each destination took quite a while, so the itinerary ran a little behind schedule. One reason for this, as I heard later, was that Osaka was actually the final day of about a two-week trip in Japan, so the guests were at the peak of their fatigue to begin with. Even so, the guests listened to my explanations and asked many questions, as if determined to enjoy their trip to Japan to the very last moment. At Shinsekai at the end, when I asked for their impressions of the trip to Japan, one of the guests answered, "Everything was impressive and wonderful!"

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNipponbashi～Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 2SubwayShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka～Tanimachi 4-chome190JPY
    Section 3SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Ebisucho240JPY
    Total620JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Sanjusangen-do Temple

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Sanjusangen-do Temple

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hotel Intergate Kyoto Shijo Shinmachi
    • 9:48 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 11:06 Nijo Castle
    • 12:42 Lunch
    • 13:58 Sanjusangen-do Temple
    • 15:11 Dismiss at Hotel Intergate Kyoto Shijo Shinmachi

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like With a Licensed Guide? A Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They had reportedly been caught in the rain during a walking tour in Tokyo the previous week, so on this fine-weather day they were excited from the morning. Since they had no particular requests, I guided them along the recommended course, and I believe they enjoyed every stop. In particular, one of the guests had studied up on the day's destinations the day before, which made our conversation flow very smoothly. They also asked many active questions along the way, and I could sense the depth of their interest in the tour. Among all the sites, Sanjusangendo left the strongest impression on them. Since we had a little time left over, I guided them through Gion at the end and then saw them off to their Hotel.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShijo～Kitaoji260JPY
    Section 2BusKitaoji Bus Terminal～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 3BusKinkakuji-michi～Nijojo-mae230JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijojo-mae～Shijo220JPY
    Section 5BusShijo Karasuma～Higashiyama Shichijo230JPY
    Section 6BusHigashiyama Shichijo～Gion230JPY
    Section 7BusGion～Shijo Karasuma230JPY
    Total1,630JPY

    Tour Report by Hiro

    Thanks for joining our tour. I’m Hiro Nakagawa, assigned to be your guide for this tour. I was eligible as a National Licensed Tour Guide in 2017. I have guided many tourists from overseas since then. Japan is a beautiful country with full of various attractions. Please enjoy your time in this country to the fullest. I will help you with that. What are you interested in this country? I will introduce this country’s long history, traditional culture, beautiful seasonal highlights, and delicious food to you. Please let me know your preferences. If it’s other than which I mentioned, I’m preparing it for you as much as possible. Let’s enjoy the trip together!

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    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)…

    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…

    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…

    May 26, 2025
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    Excellent tour
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  • Kanagawa in Half a Day: Kotoku-in & Tonkatsu Komachi

    Kanagawa in Half a Day: Kotoku-in & Tonkatsu Komachi

    Yokohama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet @ Yokohama Osanbashi Pier
    • 10:00 – 10:10 Travel (Osanbashi → Nihon-odori: on foot)
    • 10:10 – 10:20 Travel (Nihon-odori → Yokohama: Minatomirai Line)
    • 10:20 – 10:50 Travel (Yokohama → Kamakura: JR Yokosuka Line)
    • 11:00 – 11:15 Travel (Kamakura → Kotoku-in: taxi)
    • 11:15 – 11:40 @ Explore Kotoku-in
    • 11: 40 – 11:50 Travel (Kotoku-in → Kamakura Noh Stage Kagura: on foot)
    • 11:50 – 12:25 @ Kamakura Noh Stage Kagura
    • 12:25 – 12:35 Travel (Kamakura Noh Stage Kagura → Hase-dera: on foot)
    • 12:35 – 13:15 @ Explore Hase-dera
    • 13:15 – 13:30 Travel (Hase-dera → Kamakura: taxi)
    • 13:40 – 14:10 @ Tonkatsu Komachi
    • 14:16 – 14:42 Travel (Kamakura → Yokohama: Yokosuka Line)
    • 14:50 Disband @ Minatomirai Line Yokohama Station

    Title: What's a 4-Hour Private Kamakura Tour Like from Yokohama? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. One of the guests had visited Japan several times before but had done little sightseeing, and wanted to bring the group to Kamakura, a place previously visited. That was the reason for this tour. The guests had arrived by plane and were staying in Yokohama, and from that evening they were scheduled to board a cruise ship staying in Hakodate and Otaru, before heading on to another destination. Since a 4-hour tour leaves little margin for a round trip to Kamakura, I arranged an itinerary covering Kotoku-in, Hasedera, and lunch in Komachi. However, on the train heading to Kamakura, when I showed the guests information sent to me about a cafe at a Noh stage in Kamakura, they said they would very much like to visit. Since it was on the way from Kotoku-in to Hasedera, we decided to stop by. We happened to arrive just as a rehearsal was beginning, so the guests were able to have a truly precious experience, which was wonderful. They were so pleased that they even asked me to pass on their thanks. After that, although we went over the planned time at Hasedera and lunch in Komachi, the guests thanked me and said it had been a memorable and enjoyable trip, so it turned out very well.

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

    Tour Report by Hide

    I registered as a national guide in February 2015 and began working as an interpreter guide in 2019. I have been guiding throughout Tokyo (I was born and raised in Setagaya and went to elementary and junior high school in Aoyama, Minato-ku. I am familiar with sightseeing spots and gourmet food in this area, including Shibuya), and I now live in Kanagawa (Yokohama where I have lived more than 30 years, and Kamakura, Odawara, Hakone)
    I worked for the Japanese branch of an American advertising company for over 30 years and, thus, have deep knowledge of marketing and branding.
    My hobbies are travel (domestic and international) and bicycling (I have participated in the Tour de Okinawa citizens’ race every year since 2017. I ride approx. 7,000 kilometers a year). When traveling in Japan, I enjoy traditional crafts, local products, food, and sake from each region. I am also active in a band as a third hobby, performing live once a year for ten years.
    As a guide, I mainly guide small groups (about 4-5 people), where I can communicate more closely and politely with them, rather than large groups.
    My activity aims to deepen the understanding of Japanese traditional culture and the Japanese people among foreign visitors and to make a small contribution to making Japan the number one country to revisit in their hearts.

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    May 31, 2026
    Carol_S
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great way to start a trip
    Hidecki reached out a couple of…

    May 7, 2026
    Alain_V
    Viator review: Yokohama 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Belle visite
    Merci beaucoup à notre guide Ideaki qui nous a permis…

    Apr 16, 2026
    Julia_S
    Viator review: Kamakura Private Tour from Yokohama with Guide and Vehicle
    Excellent Guide made for an Excellent Tour
    We enjoyed our…

    Mar 25, 2026
    Jeff_M
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Short tour of a huge city
    Hideiki obviously wanted to give us…

  • Kyoto: Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple & Teramachi Shopping Street

    Kyoto: Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple & Teramachi Shopping Street

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:35 Meet in front of Fushimi Inari
    • Fushimi Inari
    • 12:10 Take a taxi from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station
    • 12:20. Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • 13:45. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 15:20. Ryoan-ji Temple
    • 16:50 Shopping at Teramachi Shopping Street
    • 18:35 Guide to the dinner location and end the tour

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Tour Like for Guests Who Prefer a Slower Pace? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests visited Japan from Asia. Initial contact was made with one of the guests, and later with another member of the group. The tour was originally scheduled to start at 10:00, but at the guests' request it was delayed by 30 minutes. Since one of the guests could not walk very much, we proceeded slowly from the first stop at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple. The originally planned Sagano stroll became difficult, and the schedule began to shift considerably from that point. From Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple onward, we used a taxi instead of walking. Along the way, the guests frequently bought food and looked into various shops, so even short movements took quite a lot of time. At the stations, we mainly used elevators and escalators. We ended up visiting Ryoan-ji Temple, which was not originally planned, but walking took time, so we only briefly saw the famous rock garden, and more time was spent at the restrooms. Because even small movements took time, we could no longer make it to Kinkaku-ji Temple or the Kyoto Imperial Palace before closing, so we decided to go shopping at Teramachi shopping street, which the guests had been talking about the whole time. After that, I accompanied them for more than an hour of shopping, and since the guests each had different interests, I was careful to make sure the group did not get separated. As they wished to have okonomiyaki, I guided them there, and the tour ended. The photo was taken at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainInari～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 2OtherJR Saga-Arashiyama Station～Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple0JPY
    Section 3OtherOtagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple～Arashiyama Bamboo Grove0JPY
    Section 4TrainRanden Arashiyama～Ryoanji-michi250JPY
    Section 5OtherRyoan-ji Temple～Nishioji Oike0JPY
    Section 6SubwayNishioji Oike～Kyoto City Hall220JPY
    Total710JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

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

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    Jul 24, 2026
    Trail65429092687
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Tour
    Kazua Sumi is a very accomplished guide.He has deep…

    Jul 23, 2026
    489caelinp
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Guided Tour
    My friend and I had a great experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    margaretsM7923ON
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Great way to see Kyoto
    Wonderful tour and exceptional guide.

    Jul 9, 2026
    Sandra_B
    Kazuo was great and…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazuo was great and provided…