Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto: Tenryu-ji Temple & Fushimi Inari

    Kyoto: Tenryu-ji Temple & Fushimi Inari

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Departure from Hotel Granvia Kyoto
    • 9:30 Arrival at Tenryu-ji Temple, Sagano Bamboo Grove, Togetsukyo Bridge
    • 10:30 Departure from Tenryu-ji Temple
    • 11:00 Arrival at Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 11:50 Departure from Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • ～12:50 Lunch
    • 13:30 Arrival at Fushimi Inari
    • 14:10 Departure from Fushimi Inari
    • 14:30 Hotel Granvia Kyoto, dismissal

    What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tenryuji, Kinkakuji, and Fushimi Inari We were blessed with fine weather. The first stop on the itinerary was Tenryuji Temple. The guests were moved by the beautiful views of the Sagano Bamboo Grove from the north gate of Tenryuji, the park observation deck, and the scenery along the Katsura River. Next, we visited Kinkakuji (the Golden Pavilion). The guests were interested to learn that the admission ticket is designed as a talisman, and that placing it at the entrance of one's home is said to ward off misfortune. They were also deeply impressed by the beauty of Kinkakuji seen across the pond, and were interested in the story of how it has been depicted in many novels, including those by Yukio Mishima. After lunch, we went to Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. At the purification fountain, I explained how to cleanse the hands and mouth before worship. I then guided them to the main hall and explained the etiquette of two bows, two claps, stating one's wish, and a final bow. Then came the famous Senbon Torii (thousand torii gates). The guests seemed interested to hear that these were donated by individuals and companies as a gesture of gratitude. After passing through the famous Senbon Torii, we arrived at the "Okunoin." To its right rear is a stone called the "Omokaru-ishi." First, you make a wish in front of the lantern. Then you lift the round stone placed on top of the lantern. If it feels lighter than you expected, your wish is said to come true — the guests were interested in this and tried it many times. Amid the fresh green of the new season, I believe it turned out to be a very enjoyable trip.

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

    Tour Report by Kaji

    I have been an English teacher since 1979. In 2024, I obtained the national qualification of Certified Guide Interpreter.
    Currently, after retiring, I teach English as a part-time lecturer at a Hyogo Prefectural High School.
    My hobbies are tennis, table tennis, traveling, studying English, and Japanese history.
    I play tennis and table tennis twice a week. I love traveling because I can see beautiful scenery and learn about Japanese history.
    I chose Kyoto and Nara prefectures as my guiding locations. Both were once the capitals of Japan.
    Kyoto was the residence of emperors from 794 to 1868 and was a stage for Japanese history.
    It has beautiful scenery, Japanese history, magnificent buildings and gardens, and delicious food.
    I would like to share the charms of Japan with foreign tourists as much as possible.
    I live in Amagasaki City, which is adjacent to Osaka. Kyoto is a little far from my home,
    but I would like to leave home early in the morning and enjoy traveling with my guests.
    Thank you for your consideration.

    Request Booking

    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…

    Jul 3, 2025
    Radit T
    Worthwhile private tour on our first full day in Kyoto!
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle…

    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…

  • Tokyo: Tsukiji & East Gardens of the Imperial Palace

    Tokyo: Tsukiji & East Gardens of the Imperial Palace

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Hotel Tsukiji Ginza
    • 8:10-9:00 Tsukiji
    • 9:20-9:30 Drop off luggage at the hotel → to Asakusa via the Ginza Line
    • 10:00-12:00 Asakusa sightseeing → to the restaurant by Megurin Bus
    • 12:30-14:00 Vegetarian lunch at Ajinoya in Okazu Yokocho
    • 14:15-14:30 See a few pearl shops in Okachimachi
    • 14:45-15:45 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 16:20 End at Ginza 4-chome

    What's an 8-Hour Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, and Vegan Dining The guests were visitors from Africa who came to Japan via Europe. As they followed a vegetarian diet and preferred vegetable-based dishes, I reserved a vegan-friendly Japanese restaurant and built the tour around that reservation time. Since the guests were staying at a hotel near Tsukiji, we began there and they did some shopping, buying items such as beans. We then stopped by the hotel to drop off their luggage, went to look at pearls they were interested in, and later visited a supermarket in Asakusa, making for a relatively relaxed itinerary. The guests felt that food reveals a lot about culture, and they were particularly interested in sweets. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. Winner of Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassHigashi-ginza～Tsukiji900JPY
    Section 2Free PassGinza～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 3BusAsakusa Kaminarimon～Kojima Social Education Center100JPY
    Section 4Free PassShin-okachimachi～Ueno-okachimachi0JPY
    Section 5Free PassUeno-hirokoji～Takebashi0JPY
    Section 6Free PassOtemachi～Ginza0JPY
    Total1,000JPY

    Tour Report by Maki

    Hello!
    I’m Maki. Nice to meet you.
    I used to work at a travel agency as a tour escort so I have traveled to more than 50 countries and all 47 prefectures in Japan.
    When I came back to Japan from abroad, I always noticed virtues in Japan anew.
    I’m thrilled to introduce such kinds of stories and favorite places to you.
    I like bar hopping, cooking, history, and outdoor activities such as camping, cycling.
    I have a licence of International Sake Sommlier and Wine Expert. I’m happy if I would have a chance to introduce you about sake and wine.
    I’m also a mother of junior high school girl. Let’s have fun together!

    Request Booking

    Oct 9, 2025
    301catherinep
    Fabulous customised tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Maki is a wonderful, well informed guide. She customised…

    Oct 2, 2025
    Gene L
    Our 6 hour tour with Maki was fantastic
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and…

    Aug 31, 2025
    T
    tmay2921
    Maki is the best!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an absolutely wonderful day exploring…

    Jul 12, 2025
    O6400ONsaram
    Maki san kakkoii desu
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Maki was generous and flexible! She met us…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Akasaka

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Akasaka

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @Hotel
    • 9:15 Tsukiji (Fish Market, Outer Market, Honganji Temple, Kabukiza Theater)
    • 10:30 Asakusa (Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Hoppy Street)
    • 11:45 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 13:15 Meiji Shrine
    • 14:15 Takeshita Street
    • 15:00 Akasaka Stroll
    • 15:30 Disband @Hotel

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Covering Tsukiji, Asakusa, and Meiji Shrine The guest was visiting Japan for the first time, traveling solo from Europe. They had already spent about a week in Kyoto and Osaka, arriving in Tokyo the previous day. At Tsukiji, they were thrilled, as it was their first time visiting a place like a fish market. Using Hongwanji Temple, I explained the history of Tokyo (the land reclamation in the early 17th century, the great fire of 1657, the great earthquake of 1923, and the air raids of 1945) as well as Japanese Buddhism (it seemed they had not received such explanations in Kyoto). Asakusa was surprisingly uncrowded, so we were able to move around smoothly. Even though they had already been to Kyoto, they were more impressed than expected by the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. They were astonished at the contrast between Meiji Shrine and Takeshita Street. For dinner, the guest wanted to eat somewhere with few inbound tourists, so although it became a bit of overtime, I guided them around Hitotsugi Street and Sacas in Akasaka. Throughout the one-on-one guiding, we talked the whole time and forgot to have lunch, but I believe they enjoyed it. After we parted ways, I suddenly felt very hungry!

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa Line Higashi-ginza～Asakusa Line Asakusa220JPY
    Section 2SubwayGinza Line Asakusa～Tozai Line Otemachi178JPY
    Section 3SubwayChiyoda Line Otemachi～Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Section 4TrainChiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae～Ginza Line Tameike-sanno178JPY
    Total785JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa Station & Tsukiji Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa Station & Tsukiji Station

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: Hotel Premier Asakusa
    • 9:10 Hotel Premier Asakusa
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • Shin-Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 10:00 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Nihonbashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 10:20 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 11:40 Depart Otemachi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • Kayabacho
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 12:00 Arrive Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Outer Market
    • Tsukiji Uogashi
    • 13:00 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:30 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • 13:30 Dismissal: Asakusa Station

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Tour Like for Guests Using a Wheelchair? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. This time they were traveling in Japan for about ten days. They arrived at Narita Airport in the evening in April via Hong Kong and took a taxi to their hotel. Over the previous two days they had explored central Tokyo on their own. From the following day they planned to visit Kanazawa, Kyoto, and Osaka, before returning to Tokyo and then heading home. They were interested in Japanese history and wanted to visit various historical sites. One of the guests used a wheelchair, so the tour proceeded at a relaxed pace. The sky was cloudy, but it did not rain, and the tour took place in pleasant weather. Since the guests said, "First, please guide us around Asakusa with detailed explanations," we headed to Sensoji Temple. Despite the early morning hour, it was very crowded. I explained "the history of Sensoji Temple and the transition from Edo to Tokyo," "what a five-story pagoda is," "what Buddhism is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." We took commemorative photos in front of Kaminarimon Gate. There were questions such as "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", "What other religions do people believe in?", and "How often do Buddhists go to temples? Do they visit every week?" We strolled slowly through the Nakamise shopping street and then the Shin-Nakamise shopping street. After this, we moved to the Imperial Palace (the guests wished to try riding the train rather than taking a taxi). First, we walked around the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. The cherry blossoms had almost all fallen, and there were comments such as "It's a shame we can't see the cherry blossoms" and questions like "When is the best time to see the cherry blossoms?" I explained "the history from the Edo period to the Meiji era," "the Meiji Restoration," "why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace," and "an overview of the current Imperial Family." There were comments such as "The pine trees are beautiful, like bonsai" and questions like "Does the Japanese Emperor hold political power?" There were some slopes, but we managed to get through them. We then moved to Tsukiji. As always, it was very crowded with many people. I explained "the history of the fish market since the Edo period" and "the difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market." We looked around various shops, and the guests took a liking to dried squid and bought some. There were also questions such as "Why are there so many people here?", "This is the first time I've seen real wasabi," "How do you eat bamboo shoots?", and "Do all Tokyo residents come here to buy fish?" There were also comments such as "Tokyo really feels like a very crowded city," "But the Japanese people are all quiet and polite," and "The whole city is clean, with no scattered litter." They also said, "It's a shame we couldn't see the cherry blossoms." Since the guests said, "We're a bit tired and would like to return to the hotel," I saw them off at Asakusa Station and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa Station～Otemachi Station178JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijubashimae Station～Tsukiji Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukiji Station～Asakusa Station209JPY
    Total565JPY

    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.

    Request Booking

    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
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Osaka: Todai-ji Great Buddha Hall & Kofuku-ji Temple

    Osaka: Todai-ji Great Buddha Hall & Kofuku-ji Temple

    Nara Day Trip from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet up @ Candeo Hotels Osaka The Tower
    • 10:14 Todai-ji Great Buddha Hall
    • 11:42 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 12:32 Lunch
    • 13:32 Shin-Yakushi-ji Temple
    • 14:22 Naramachi Stroll
    • 15:02 Kofuku-ji Temple
    • 17:00 Disperse @ Umeda

    Title: What's a Private Day Trip to Nara from Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. As today was the final day of their trip to Japan, they were delighted to be blessed with fine weather. We first headed to Todaiji Temple. One of the guests was thrilled to see so many deer, but was quickly overwhelmed by the deer's morning energy and had all the deer crackers taken right away. Since everything besides Todaiji was left up to me, I took them to the Manyo Botanical Garden at Kasuga Taisha Shrine. The wisteria in the garden was nearly in full bloom, and everyone was very pleased. Lunch was also well received. As the walking distance turned out to be a bit long, we started heading back a little earlier than planned. At their request, I took them to a character goods store in Umeda, where we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayYodoyabashi～Namba190JPY
    Section 2TrainNamba～Kintetsu Nara1,360JPY
    Section 3BusKintetsu Nara Station～Great Buddha Hall Parking Lot250JPY
    Section 4BusTamukeyama・Nigatsu-do～Kasuga Taisha Main Shrine250JPY
    Section 5BusWariishicho～Kenchomae250JPY
    Section 6SubwayNamba～Umeda240JPY
    Total2,540JPY

    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!

    Request Booking

    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
    SK G
    Excellent tour
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mr. Hiro provided an excellent experience. Personable…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji & Kiyomizu-dera

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji & Kiyomizu-dera

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet @ Hotel Kyōto Nijō Takakura
    • 8:45-9:40 @ Kinkaku-ji
    • 10:10-10:45 @ Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 11:35-12:25 @ Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 12:45-13:30 @ Kiyomizu-dera
    • 14:20 Dismissal @ Hotel Kyōto Nijō Takakura

    Title: What Does a Full-Day Private Kyoto Tour Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji, Arashiyama, Fushimi Inari, and Kiyomizu-dera The guests were visiting from Europe. Today happened to be a special day for one of them, and they mentioned that they had reserved a Kyoto Kaiseki-French dinner after the tour. One of the guests took photos quite often, while the other rarely did, which made for an interesting contrast. For Kinkaku-ji, we took a bus from the station nearest the Hotel, but we arrived earlier than expected and the gate was still closed. I used the time until the gate opened to explain the historical background of Kinkaku-ji. From Kinkaku-ji to the Arashiyama bamboo grove, the guests took a taxi. At the bamboo grove, we also visited Nonomiya Shrine, where I shared stories about its connection to the imperial family. At Fushimi Inari Taisha, both guests passed under the roots of the "nekoagari-no-matsu" pine. From Fushimi Inari Taisha to Kiyomizu-dera, they again used a taxi. As it was a Saturday, I had anticipated some traffic, but there was none at all and the route was smooth. At Kiyomizu-dera, both guests drank the water from the Otowa Waterfall, and I took on the role of photographing that moment. At the approach to Kiyomizu-dera, they bought two small packs of yatsuhashi. Near the Yasaka Pagoda, one of the guests encountered a YouTuber they follow and struck up a conversation. We then took a bus from Higashiyama Yasui, brought the guests back to the Hotel, and parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKarasuma Marutamachi～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 2TrainSaga-Arashiyama Station～Inari Station240JPY
    Section 3BusHigashiyama Yasui～Karasuma Marutamachi230JPY
    Total700JPY

    Tour Report by Kaz

    Hi, thank you very much for choosing the JGA tour!

    My name is Kazuhiro Yoshida, please call me “Kaz”.

    I am an English-speaking National Licensed Tour Guide in Japan, and have been guiding mainly in Kyoto and other Kansai areas since April 2023. I have guided over 1,000 tours in total so far, and I am on my way to becoming one of the best English-speaking tour guides in Japan.

    I have a great passion to show people from all over the world, the deep histories and cultures of Japan, the country I truly love.
    I am focused to take you out on a tour that will become one of the best highlights of your entire trip.

    I am glad to have an opportunity to be your guide, and I hope that we can explore many hidden gems of Japan together!

    Request Booking

    May 19, 2026
    498stephenq
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    An enjoyable visit
    Really enjoyed our visit with Kaz. Friendly, informative, and…

    Apr 11, 2026
    V5131MFjodieh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kyoto morning tour with Kaz
    Kaz (Kazuhiro) guided my family in historic…

    Oct 14, 2025
    Scenic61154406959
    Great Historical Perspective
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoshida was excellent, he had a great knowledge of…

    Sep 29, 2025
    Jea L
    Excellent Tour of Kyoto with Kaz
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kaz was an excellent tour…

  • Kanagawa in Half a Day: Chinatown sightseeing and street food

    Kanagawa in Half a Day: Chinatown sightseeing and street food

    Yokohama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 However, the customer shows up 30 minutes later
    • 11:00-11:30 Chinatown sightseeing and street food
    • 12:00-12:20 Stroll through Harbor View Park
    • 12:40-13:30 After shopping at the Red Brick Warehouse, move to the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum, then disband

    What's a Private Cruise Passenger Tour of Yokohama Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests arrived in Yokohama from a cruise. Getting from the cruise to Yokohama by taxi involved heavy congestion, so the tour started about 30 minutes late. On that day, three or more cruise ships were docked at Yokohama Port. Sightseeing preferences had been discussed in advance, but had been left up to me. When I asked again about their wishes on the day, they mentioned Chinatown and the Ramen Museum. So we first went to Chinatown. (Since getting off the ship had been quite an ordeal, they must have been hungry, and they enjoyed eating at the standing food stalls.) Along the way, they enjoyed shopping at the Red Brick Warehouse, and one of the guests happily mentioned having bought an accessory. After going around a fair amount, I finally took them to the Ramen Museum, where we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainIn front of the Art Theater and NHK～Chinatown entrance220JPY
    Section 2TrainChinatown entrance～Harbor View Park220JPY
    Section 3TrainHarbor View Park～Red Brick Warehouse220JPY
    Section 4TrainRed Brick Warehouse～Sakuragicho220JPY
    Section 5TrainSakuragicho～Shin-Yokohama280JPY
    Total1,160JPY

    Tour Report by Kappa

    Thank you for your entry in this tour. Nice to meet you in this mail.
    Your tour guide Kappa is my nickname. Kappa is a traditional, imaginary creature who came into being in Japan over 300 years ago. She is good at swimming, like me, for I like swimming. I would like to make our tour operated smoothly as Kappa does when she swims in the river or pond. It is my pleasure to introduce many aspects in our tour, especially cooking, for it is my hobby and I went to the professional cooking and SAKE school, respectively. If you have any questions or requests about Japanese cooking, of course our tour, I am very delighted to answer to you anytime!

    Request Booking

    Jul 30, 2025
    Michael_R
    Customized Hakone tour
    Viator review: Hakone 8 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Kappa-san, modified the typical Hakone tour…

    May 18, 2025
    Leigh_M
    Kappa, our guide met us…
    Viator review: Kamakura 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kappa, our guide met us at the…

    May 4, 2025
    panderhigs
    Kappa A+ Guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kappa was an amazing guide who created a thorough…

    May 4, 2025
    O9621SBscottp
    Kappa is a wonderful tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I were treated…

  • Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 10:00 Start at Kanazawa Station
    • Move by taxi to Higashi Chaya District
    • AM 10:20-11:00 Utasu Shrine, stroll around Higashi Chaya District
    • Move by taxi to Kenrokuen Garden
    • AM 11:20 -PM 12:00 Tour Kenrokuen Garden
    • PM 12:00-PM 12:40 Kanazawa Castle Park, tour Hishi Yagura, Gojukken Nagaya, Hashizumemon Tsuzuki Yagura
    • Move by taxi to Nagamachi Samurai District
    • PM 12:50- 13:30 Tour Nomura Family Residence, Takada Family Residence
    • Move by bus to Omicho Market
    • PM 13:45 Guide around Omicho Market. Introduce a favorite shop near Omicho and end the tour PM 14:00

    Title: What Is a Private Kanazawa Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Prior to the tour, I had been told by the guest that one member of the group might not be able to participate, but we proceeded with the tour on the understanding that if the person became tired, they could return to the hotel alone by taxi. Because one of the guests was recovering from recent surgery and this trip to Japan was a celebration of that recovery, I made every effort to minimize fatigue by using taxis for transportation and keeping walking to a minimum. At Kanazawa Castle Park, I had one of the guests rest at a rest area while I guided the rest of the group through the Hishi Yagura, Gojukken Nagaya, and Hashizumemon Tsuzuki Yagura. In the end, everyone was able to take part all the way to Omicho Market, and I guided them to an okonomiyaki restaurant to conclude the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusNagamachi Samurai District Ruins～Omicho100JPY
    Section 2BusMusashigatsuji～Kanazawa Station210JPY
    Total310JPY

    Tour Report by YOSHI

    Hello , My name is Hideharu Yoshino . Just call me” Yoshi” .
    I have been involved with many foreign Business partners through my business life for 38 years ,
    Based on my work experience , I would like to try my best to make you comfortale and Happy fruitful times during your stay in Japan .
    Not only giving you basic tourist information about famous sightseeing spot , also I would enjoy to give you the back ground inofrmation in my word.
    ” Once in a lifetime encounter ” Let’s enjoy with me Miracle time to be picked up from 6 billion in somewhere Japan!

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    Jul 25, 2026
    Ann W
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    Jul 18, 2026
    Geert73
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    A Well-Organized and Informative Tour of Kanazawa
    We, a…

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    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Local Food & Tea Culture Tour with Licensed Guide
    Number one guide for personalised touring of Kanazawa
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    rikkes490
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Rigtig god guidet tur
    Rigtig god oplevelse og gode forklaringer

    とても良いガイドツアーでした。
    とても良い体験でした。説明も分かりやすく、とても良かったです。

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Atomic Bomb Dome

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Atomic Bomb Dome

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 07:30 Hotel Meet
    • 08:30 Miyajima
    • 12:00 Lunch
    • 13:30 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 15:30 Atomic Bomb Dome

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Miyajima and Hiroshima Peace Park Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: On April, a [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private day tour to Miyajima and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park for guests visiting from North America. The weather was clear and sunny throughout the day. The tour included visiting Itsukushima Shrine and learning the proper way to worship there, experiencing the Kaidan-meguri underground passage at Daisho-in Temple, strolling along Maple Road, and offering a moment of silent prayer at the Peace Memorial Park. Since messaging beforehand had not been possible, there was some concern about the meeting, but we were able to meet without any trouble at 7:30. Once we met, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that one of the guests owned several carbon road bikes and mountain bikes and was a passionate cycling enthusiast. We had a wonderful time talking about cycling road conditions in North America, and I shared stories about my own cycling tours. One of the guests had lived for a short period in Kakogawa as an exchange student about forty years ago. I have relatives in that area as well, so we enjoyed a lively conversation.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKanayamacho～Hiroshima Station240JPY
    Section 2TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi Station420JPY
    Section 3TrainMiyajimaguchi Station～Nishi-Hiroshima Station330JPY
    Section 4BusNishi-Hiroshima Station～Hiroshima Peace Park240JPY
    Total1,230JPY

    Tour Report by Yuji

    Originally, I’m a cycling guide doing cycling tours all over Japan.
    But, already done Hiroshima & Miyajima tour more than 400 times.
    I traveled many countries in my younger days. I traveled Europe, US, China, India, US, Mexico, Peru Australia, NZ, and so on.
    I decided to use this experience to become a guide.
    I’m afraid but no tipping required, because cycling guides are not allowed to have tipping in my association. And you do not need to pay for my lunch, because my lunch is prepared by our group.
    Please do not hesitate to ask me anything, I’ll change the plan according to your requests.
    Thank you for your understanding and please stay connected.

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    Jun 1, 2026
    John_W
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
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    May 27, 2026
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    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima in a day
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    satishp656
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    HIROSHIMA HALF DAY TOUR
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    StephanieB6076
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
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  • Kanagawa in Half a Day: Sankeien Garden & Landmark Tower

    Kanagawa in Half a Day: Sankeien Garden & Landmark Tower

    Yokohama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Sotetsu FRESA Sakuragicho
    • 10:40 Sankeien Garden
    • 11:50 Harbor View Park
    • 12:50 Minato Mirai Lunch BOTECHU
    • 13:30 Landmark Tower
    • 14:00 Dismissal

    What Is a Private Yokohama Sankeien Garden Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a visitor from Oceania, who was planning to enjoy a cruise departing from Yokohama. At Sankeien Garden, the moment they entered, they repeatedly said how wonderful and beautiful it was, and were deeply moved. At the Rinshunkaku building, they happened to encounter a bride and groom in vivid kimono and were even able to take a photo together, which they were delighted to say became a wonderful memory. They were very impressed and said they had not expected to be able to go inside and see a gassho-style thatched-roof house from Shirakawa-go. They were also very satisfied with the okonomiyaki and kabosu sour we had for lunch. Saying it was a truly memorable and wonderful tour, they gave me a pair of socks with a koala print and a hug, and we ended the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMotomachi～Minato Mirai193JPY
    Total193JPY

    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
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    jacquir581
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    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.…