Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto: Nijo Castle & Fushimi Inari

    Kyoto: Nijo Castle & Fushimi Inari

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:05 Hotel Meet
    • 9:30 Nijo Castle
    • 10:35 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 11:30 Lunch
    • 12:30 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 13:45 Nanzen-ji Temple
    • 14:30 Eikan-do Temple
    • 15:45 Fushimi Inari
    • 17:00 Arrive at Hotel, Tour Ends

    What Is a Full-Day Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of seven visiting Japan for the first time from North America. It was a very hot day with temperatures exceeding 32 degrees, and by the afternoon one of the guests grew tired and rested alone at the main gate of Nanzen-ji Temple. Although they behaved cheerfully and energetically, they were clearly tired. I discussed whether we might skip Eikan-do and head to Fushimi Inari to end the tour a little earlier. In the end we decided to visit, but since entering the buildings would require walking up quite a few stairs, I guided them slowly through the garden instead. I had also considered visiting the final stop, Fushimi Inari, a bit more quickly, but since Fushimi Inari was a place the group very much wanted to see, everyone suddenly regained their energy, and I guided them as originally planned. They asked many questions, and the area around the exit of Fushimi Inari was quite congested, so in the end we arrived at the Hotel at 5:00 as scheduled and finished the tour. The photo was taken at the Kyoto Imperial Palace. Please confirm that this was a total of an 8-hour tour.

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

    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…

  • Kyoto: Board the private car & Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto: Board the private car & Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:50 Pickup at Kyoto Station (Shinkansen side)
    • 10:00 Board the private car
    • 10:20 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 11:10 (Departure)
    • 12:10 Arashiyama (Tenryu-ji parking lot)
    • 　　　　・Tenryu-ji Temple
    • ・Bamboo Grove
    • 13:00 Lunch at a Wagyu restaurant
    • 13:50 (Departure)
    • 14:20 Kinkaku-ji
    • 15:20 (Departure)
    • 16:00 Gion, in front of Hanamikoji

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour with a Licensed Guide Like? A Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania, and I picked them up at 9:50 on the Shinkansen platform of Kyoto Station and guided them to a taxi. At Fushimi Inari Taisha, we walked through the thousand torii gates, and I introduced the fox ema plaques and the omokaru-ishi stone. At a souvenir shop, I introduced daruma dolls. On the way to Arashiyama, I asked the driver to point out the Nintendo headquarters and two development buildings as we passed by. In Arashiyama, we visited Tenryu-ji Temple and walked through the bamboo grove. The guests had mentioned that they wanted to have wagyu for lunch, so I guided them to a wagyu restaurant, and they found it delicious and told me it was a good choice. On the way to Kinkaku-ji, the guests wanted to withdraw cash, so we stopped at a convenience store. It was a very hot day, and I supported them with photography at various spots, and they complimented me on my photo-taking skills. As we had some time before Gion, I guided them past the Kyoto Imperial Palace and Nijo Castle from the car window, and we said our goodbyes in Gion.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherKyoto Station～Kyoto Station150JPY
    Total150JPY

    Tour Report by HIDEYOSHI

    Hello, I’m HIDEo YOSHIda. Please call me HIDEYOSHI, the same name as a famous shogun who unified Japan for the first time in 1590.
    I was born in Kobe, worked in Osaka for nearly 40 years. I would like to introduce you Kansai region, including Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara and Wakayama.
    In Kyoto, I can guide you Nijojo Castle, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kinkakuji Tempe (Golden Pavilion), Gion area, and Fushimi Inari Taisha.
    In Osaka, I’ll show you Osaka Castle, Shinsekai, Dotonbori, and Umeda Sky biilding. We have locall foods such as Kushikatau, Okonomiyaki and Takoyaki.
    In Kobe, I’ll take you to former foreign residential area, Sannomiya Shopping Street, Chinese Market, and Arima Onsen.
    In Nara, I’ll guide you Todaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, Kasuga Taisha, and Yakushiji Temple.
    In Wakayama, I take you to Koyasan, the center of Esoteric Buddhism.
    I enjoy guiding foreign tourists.
    I can show you Japanese history, especially samurai period, and Shinto and Buddhism.
    I’ve been looking forward to guiding you !!

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    Jun 1, 2026
    Stephan_F
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great overview of the…
    Great overview of the highlights of Kyoto with…

    May 28, 2025
    terrym866
    Kyoto guided tour was as promised. Very knowledgeable guide and driver .
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full Day Tour from Kobe with…

    Oct 17, 2024
    katiya2017
    Walking visit in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Government-Licensed Guide
    We booked a full day walking…

    Sep 29, 2024
    Roy_M
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a very good private tour with…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Gion

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Gion

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet @Hotel Kyoto
    • 9:00 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 10:35 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 11:45 Sannenzaka・Ninenzaka
    • 12:20 Gion
    • 12:30 Dismiss @Hanamikoji

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari and Kiyomizu-dera The guests were visitors from North America. It was a very sunny and hot day, so I made sure to remind the guests to take breaks and stay hydrated, but the sky was clear and blue, which made for beautiful photos at Fushimi Inari and Kiyomizu-dera. At Fushimi Inari, the guests visited the main shrine and were amazed by the Senbon Torii. Because it was hot, we took a taxi from Kiyomizu-Gojo. Kiyomizu-dera was not very crowded, so we were able to take our time with photos both at the main stage and at the inner sanctuary. At first the guests seemed a little shy, but as they became more comfortable they spoke with me a great deal. Some of the guests knew a few Japanese words and asked me questions about Japanese vocabulary and phrases. After the tour, the guests planned to stroll around Gion, so I explained how to get back to their hotel and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKarasuma Oike～Kyoto220JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 3TrainFushimi Inari～Kiyomizu-Gojo240JPY
    Total610JPY

    Tour Report by Mickey

    Hello! I’m Miyuki Konishi. It’s my great pleasure to guide visitors from other countries and welcome you to Japan. I would be happy if you make great memories in Japan with my support. Precious memories become our life treasures. So, I’d love to help you make them.
    I love Japanese culture, history, customs and so on. I know a lot about Kyoto and Nara. Additionally, I have a certificate as an English speaking guide for Himeji Castle and as a kimono instructor.
    I’ll do my best to make your trip wonderful. Let’s enjoy exploring Japan together!

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    May 17, 2026
    Barry_L
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fun, Flexible, Friendly and Informative
    Mickey was great. We put together an…

    Apr 29, 2026
    Dream20497216370
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience in Kobe
    We had a great time with Micky, our…

  • Tokyo in One Day: 10：30

    Tokyo in One Day: 10：30

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • Departure: 9:00
    • 1. Meiji Shrine
    • 9:40–10：30
    • 2.Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
    • 10:45–11:35
    • 3.Lunch in Shinjuku
    • 11:40–12:30
    • (about 50 min)
    • 4.East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 13:00–14:00
    • 5.Shibuya
    • 14:25–14:40
    • 6. Hotel 15:00

    **Title:** What Is a First-Day Private Tokyo Tour with a Licensed Guide Like? A Guide's Report **Body:** The guests were a group visiting from North America who had arrived in Japan the previous night. It was their first time in Japan, and they had arranged a government-licensed guide for just their first day, saying that learning about Japanese history and religion would be a valuable educational experience. Although it turned out to be quite a hot day, the guests listened attentively to the explanations. At Meiji Jingu Shrine, they took many photographs, and the tour focused mainly on Japanese parks and gardens, including the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace and Shinjuku Gyoen. The guests said they were able to take photos they were happy with. They told me that they were very glad to have arranged a guide.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGinza～Yoyogi290JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku～Shinjuku-gyoenmae180JPY
    Section 3TrainShinjuku-gyoenmae～Otemachi (Tokyo)210JPY
    Section 4TrainOtemachi (Tokyo)～Shibuya210JPY
    Section 5TrainShibuya～Ginza210JPY
    Total1,100JPY

    Tour Report by Mitch

    I am certified as a Top Guide by the JGA.
    Drawing on my past experience as a guide, where I have consistently received positive feedback from guests, I will focus on the following key points in my guiding:
    Explain the historical transition from Edo to Tokyo through engaging episodes and stories.
    Offer a cross-cultural perspective on why concepts such as honji suijaku (the idea of local deities being manifestations of Buddhist figures), as seen at places like Meiji Shrine, represent a worldview that Japan can be proud of.
    Provide warm and humorous interaction, incorporating the spirit of hospitality I learned while studying at Columbia University in the United States.
    Use my experience working at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government to explain Tokyo’s present-day situation with the support of statistical data.

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    Jul 7, 2026
    Ruppa_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great guide and first experience in Tokyo
    It was our first time…

    Jun 8, 2026
    TAMARA_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience!
    Great experience, learning a lot. Get to see a lots…

    May 7, 2026
    Marianela25
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great customized Itinerary with Mitch!
    Mitch was a fantastic tour guide. He…

    Apr 29, 2026
    163neilh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Asakusa Sensouji Temple, Imperial Palace & Meiji Shrine.
    We had a fantastic…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0900 Hotel (3 min from JR Shibuya Station) meeting. At the Ekitabi Concierge, assistance with purchasing children's SUICA and Shinkansen tickets
    • 0945 Harajuku. Meiji Shrine visit. Takeshita Street
    • 1115 Imperial Palace Outer Garden. Tatsumi Yagura Turret. Gyoko-dori Avenue. Tokyo Station
    • 1305 Asakusa. After arrival, the eldest daughter's condition worsened, so we decided to return to the hotel.
    • 1400 Shibuya. Disbanded near the hotel entrance

    Private Tokyo Tour with a Family from North America: What Does a Licensed Guide's Day Look Like? The guests were a group visiting from North America. Originally the group was expected to be larger, but the number was reduced. Some of the guests had lived in Japan for a period in the past, and another had spent time in Japan more recently. They had arrived the previous night and had already walked across the Shibuya Scramble Crossing. Since SUICA cards were needed, we arranged them at the travel concierge counter at Shibuya Station. Part of the group planned to visit Sendai the next day, so I also arranged Shinkansen tickets. Others planned to visit Sanrio Puroland. After that, the group intended to travel around the Kansai region, return to Tokyo for a few days, and then head home. After my tour ended, they planned to visit TeamLab Borderless. Takeshita Street was intended as a preliminary look, since they planned to return another day to spend more time there, but it took quite a while. Afterward, on the way from the Imperial Palace Outer Gardens to Tokyo Station, one of the guests said they were hungry, while another had no appetite, so we decided to figure out meals after arriving in Asakusa. However, upon exiting Asakusa Station, one of the guests began to feel unwell. The group decided to return to the Hotel for the time being. At Shibuya Station, I guided them to the entrance of the Hotel and we parted ways. Part of the group returned to the Hotel, while the others split up to have a meal and go shopping. Since there was still time, they planned to rest a little before deciding what to do next. After returning home, I put together and sent the route to Puroland. I also introduced them to https://www.international-clinic.tokyo/ for reference.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShibuya～Harajuku160JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 3TrainTokyo～Ueno200JPY
    Section 4SubwayUeno～Asakusa180JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa～Shibuya260JPY
    Total1,010JPY

    Tour Report by Ted

    I had worked in the international business scene for over 40 years and traveled to North America and European countries over 1000 days.
    After I retired from the business, I traveled to most of the major sightseeing spots in all 47 prefectures in Japan.

    My guide is starting from a brief history of the site where I am going to guide. I usually add a briefing about Japanese culture based on religions, such as Shinto Shrine and Buddhist temples. A geographic background behind the history is also important.
    My course includes 4 to 5 (in 6 hours) sites from the following depending on where I will pick the guests up;
    – Senso ji Temple
    – Kappabashi Kitchenware Market
    – Tokyo Skytree
    – Ueno Park
    – Nezu Shrine
    – Imperial Palace outer park
    – Tokyo Central Station, Marunouchi historic district
    – Tsukiji Fish Market
    – Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    – Ginza
    – Odaiba
    – Hama Rikyu Garden
    – Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
    – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
    – Roppongi
    – Meiji Shrine
    – Harajuku & Takeshita Street
    – Shibuya
    – and Any of your interest.

    I am happy to introduce Japanese Manga/Anime cultures such as Akihabara, Nakano Broadway and Ghibli related sites.
    Travelling along the JR central line where guests can stopover at major animation studios (it is not accepted to visit the inside). The majority of animation studios such as TMS Entertainment, SUNRISE, A1 Pictures etc. are located in this area. Suginami Animation museum, Studio Ghibli and Ghibli Museum are also located.
    Guests can feel old houses in the Spirited Away scene in the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.

    I can also provide a pilgrimage to the sacred place (shooting location) for the Shinkai Makoto animation movies such as Your name, Weathering with you, and Suzume.

    Another interesting feature is to visit authentic Japanese style pub meals such as Yakitori, Karaage, and Sushi etc.
    Asakusa Hoppy Street, Ameyoko Street, Yurakucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku Golden gai, Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho are nice to visit.

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

    In addition to the above, I am available in the neighboring cities.

    Kawagoe is an old town developed in the 17th century. It has very close relationship with the Edo central government. Kawagoe castle ruins, Kitain temple and 500 Buddha statues will welcome the guests.
    These areas are renovated and provide an old days atmosphere.
    Japanese style sweets food stands will fascinate the guests.
    Kawagoe is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    Kamakura is the first Samurai worriers government established in the late 12th century.
    The Buddhism are introduced to Japan in the 6th century, and flourished at Nara and Kyoto later. A newer Buddhism sect such as Zen has well developed at Kamakura area.
    Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Gigantic Buddha statue at Kotokuin Temple and the flower temple Hasedera Temple are must-see.
    Kamakura is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    I am also happy to develop any other site the guests have interest.

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 13:00 Meet up @ JR Kobe Station Central Ticket Gate
    • 2. 13:40 @ Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
    • 3. 15:10 @ Sorakuen Garden
    • 4. 15:50 @ Kobe Motomachi Shopping Street
    • 5. 17:00 Disband @ JR Kobe Station Inbound Platform

    What's a Private Kobe Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and Motomachi Today's guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. We met at Kobe Station and toured the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Sorakuen Garden, and the Kobe Motomachi shopping street, ending the tour back at Kobe Station. The weather was perfectly clear today, and we were able to enjoy comfortable sightseeing at the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. It became a bit warm when we arrived at Sorakuen Garden, and since the guests wished to do some shopping, we headed to the Motomachi shopping street early. At the shopping street, we walked almost from one end to the other, browsing the shops. The guests stopped by several stores and made some purchases. Following this route, we arrived at Kobe Station, and the tour concluded as I saw the guests off onto their train. Afterward, I received a thank-you message from the guests. They were very pleased with the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKobe (Hyogo Prefecture)～Maiko320JPY
    Section 2TrainMaiko～Motomachi (Hyogo Prefecture)320JPY
    Total640JPY

    Tour Report by Norio

    Hello, my name is Norio Oki, a Government-Certified Tour Guide in Japan.
    I specialize in guiding visitors through the beautiful and historic regions of Himeji and Kobe.

    My expertise includes Japanese history, traditional culture, castles, and sake. I enjoy sharing not only facts, but also the stories and spirit behind each place.

    In Himeji, I offer guided tours of Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden, Shoshazan Engyoji Temple, and Nadagiku Sake Brewery.
    In Kobe, I guide guests through the Nada Sake Breweries area, Mt. Rokko, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, Harborland, Meriken Park, the Kitano District, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, and the lively Motomachi Shopping Street.

    Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local experiences, I will create a personalized tour tailored to your interests.

    If you’re planning to visit Himeji or Kobe, I would be delighted to be your guide.
    I look forward to meeting you soon!

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    Jul 7, 2026
    77guye
    The best way to experience Himeji Castle
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    What a great way to…

    May 30, 2026
    karenpG5549XU
    Loved our tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour with Norio, would highly…

    May 28, 2026
    TrailBlazer741528
    Kobe Variety.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our delightful guide, Norio, was knowledgeable and a master at…

    May 23, 2026
    sarahpR5911DJ
    Himeji castle with Norio
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learnt lots about Himeji castle and it…

  • Hiroshima: Ground Zero / Atomic Bomb Dome & The Knot Hiroshima

    Hiroshima: Ground Zero / Atomic Bomb Dome & The Knot Hiroshima

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 14:00 Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 14:15 Move to Ground Zero / Atomic Bomb Dome
    • 14:25 Tour Ground Zero, Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Memorial Park, and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
    • 16:00 Move to and stroll around Hondori
    • 16:50 Move to Shukkeien Garden
    • 17:05 Stroll around Shukkeien Garden
    • 17:40 Move to The Knot Hiroshima
    • 18:00 Disband at The Knot Hiroshima

    Title: What Is a Private Hiroshima Tour with a Licensed Guide Like? A Guide's Report For this tour, many members of the [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) staff provided a great deal of support. Although there were various challenges along the way, the fact that everything concluded in the way that gave the guests' group the greatest peace of mind was entirely thanks to everyone's efforts. It was unfortunate that one of the guests, who had most looked forward to visiting Hiroshima, was unable to come, but before departing Japan, we received a message through a messaging app saying, "It seems the group had a wonderful time in Hiroshima." I was also relieved to hear that another of the guests' back pain was gradually improving and that they were able to leave Japan safely. I was grateful as well for the prompt support provided by the CEO of [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/), who had visited Hiroshima just beforehand. Thank you all very much!

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherHiroshima Station Shinkansen Exit～Kamiyacho240JPY
    Section 2OtherKamiyacho-higashi～Shukkeien-mae240JPY
    Total480JPY

    Tour Report by Emmy

    Hi, nice to meet you! I am Emmy. I am so honored and happy to be your guide.
    I had been teaching at a local university in Hiroshima. After I got retired in March 2023, I started guiding. I was born and raised in Hiroshima. I love communicating with people all over the world more than anything, so I have been involved in home visit, homestay, volunteer guide for people from foreign countries.
    I always hope that our guests will take away lots of positive energy from Hiroshima, a city that was resilient and revived like a phoenix, in spite of its sad history.
    While realizing customers’ wishes, I will introduce you the beauty of Hiroshima, Miyajima and so on, which are tranquil and peaceful places with a unique charm that cannot be found in big cities.
    I am happy to answer any questions about things Japanese.
    I look forward to meeting you in person soon!!

    Request Booking

    Jul 3, 2026
    715rachnak
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Such a great experience in Hiroshima and Miyajima!
    We…

    Jul 2, 2026
    Janine_P
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Worth the money!
    From the moment we booked our…

    May 7, 2026
    Diane_F
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour and guide
    Our tour guide Emmy was…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Curious613511
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    We did a 4 hour walking tour through Hiroshima where…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Gotokuji Temple & Shinjuku

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Gotokuji Temple & Shinjuku

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel
    • 10:50 Gotokuji Temple
    • 11:40 Meiji Shrine
    • 12:40 Shinjuku
    • 14:30 Disband at Shibuya

    What's a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Gotokuji, Meiji Shrine, and Shinjuku The guests were visiting from North America. Since we had not been able to discuss the itinerary in advance, we decided on Gotokuji, Meiji Shrine, and Shinjuku when we met. They did not seem particularly interested in temples or shrines, but they appeared to enjoy the quiet and solemn atmosphere. At Gotokuji, they searched hard for the cat carved on the three-story pagoda, though they were not especially taken with the many beckoning cat figurines. However, they were drawn to the shape of the pine trees within the temple grounds, so I brought up the topic of bonsai, and it turned out they had once owned a single potted bonsai, which made for a lively conversation. They also enjoyed seeing the surrounding residential area lined with ordinary houses. At the next stop, Meiji Shrine, I had a hard time with questions about the sake barrels, such as "Which do you recommend, and which is sweet?" The guests liked sweet Japanese sake, so at our final stop, the Isetan department store in Shinjuku, they purchased sweet sake and plum wine. In the end, they enjoyed Shinjuku the most today. It seemed they preferred modern places where they could shop rather than traditional Japanese sites. I thought that if they had told me so from the start, I could have rearranged the course, but surprisingly, visiting shrines and temples turned out to be worthwhile in its own way (even though their reactions were subdued). They carefully filmed videos of the 3D cat and the Godzilla performance, and in Kabukicho we walked the usual course and enjoyed shopping. This time, when the topic of hostess clubs and host clubs came up, the two of them reacted with a "not interested, only you" kind of feeling, laughing and hugging each other, which was heartwarming. Finally, they asked me to walk them back to their accommodation, so we left Shibuya Station and, at a pedestrian bridge near the accommodation, they shook hands with me and said, "Thank you, we had a great time," and we parted ways. (It had been a while since I visited the west exit of Shibuya Station, and it had changed again due to construction, which is always a challenge.) It was a hot day, but I was fortunate to be able to guide effectively by making good use of the shade, so it was not too exhausting.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShibuya～Miyanosaka340JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyanosaka～Gotokuji160JPY
    Section 3SubwayGotokuji～Meiji-jingumae330JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku～Shinjuku160JPY
    Section 5TrainShinjuku～Shibuya200JPY
    Total1,190JPY

    Tour Report by Danda

    Nice to meet you. I am delighted to introduce myself. My nickname is Danda. I live in Saitama prefecture next to Tokyo, but I was brought up in Kanazawa, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. My favorite things are bonsai and hiking. Also, I have been a big fun of history and sumo since my childhood. As for the guide, I have enjoyed making communication with foreign visitors since 2019. I have taken more than 30 private groups to not only major scenic spots but also their favorite places such as tea ceremony, maid cafe, sumo tournament, bonsai village, fire ritual and so on. I can arrange the original tour based on your requests and curiosity. It will be only for you. I look forward to meeting you soon. Thank you.

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    Apr 21, 2026
    Sabrina_F
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Balade riche en découvertes
    Nous avons passé un super moment avec Danda.…

    Apr 14, 2026
    davidjonesresponseen
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking tour with Danda in Tokyo
    Excellent walking tour, we followed our…

    Apr 10, 2026
    Anna_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour with great guide
    Excellent tour with a very good guide…

    Mar 25, 2026
    Nahmjee_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour guide and experience.
    Danda was great with my family. He…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Ueno Station & Daiba Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Ueno Station & Daiba Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meeting place: & Here Tokyo Ueno
    • 11:10 Depart Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 11:30 Arrive Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Outer Market
    • Tsukiji Uogashi
    • 12:00 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 12:30 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Break: Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • Takeshita Street
    • 13:30 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:45 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 14:30 Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Shimbashi Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • 15:30 Arrive Daiba Station
    • Daiba Odaiba
    • Aqua City and others
    • 16:30 Daiba Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • Shimbashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 17:00 Arrive Ueno Station
    • 17:00 Disband: Ueno Station

    Title: What Can You See on a One-Day Private Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a family visiting Japan for the first time, coming from Oceania. They were staying at a hotel near Ueno Station. They had arrived at Narita Airport the day before via a connecting flight and taken the Skyliner to their hotel. The evening before, they had explored the area around Ueno Station. They planned to stay in Japan for an extended trip, spending several days in Tokyo before traveling on to Hakone, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Hiroshima, then returning to Tokyo before heading home. The following day they planned to spend the whole day at Disney Sea. For today, they said they wanted to "visit the main spots in Tokyo and get a sense of the transportation situation." It was a tour under clear skies, with weather warm enough to feel hot. They commented that it was "too hot compared to their home region." First, we went to Tsukiji. It was as crowded as ever. I explained the "history of the fish market since the Edo period," the "difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market," and the "tuna auctions." They asked and commented, "Do all Tokyo residents come here to buy fish?" and "It's crowded, but it really seems like there are many tourists." They said they wanted to try some food. In the end, they purchased and sampled "tuna sushi," "mochi with strawberry," and "matcha soft-serve ice cream." They also bought "wasabi peanuts" as a souvenir. We moved to Harajuku and went to Meiji Shrine. I explained "about Shinto," "about torii gates," "about Emperor Meiji," "why sake barrels are displayed," and "why wine barrels are displayed." They asked questions such as "What kind of religion is Shinto?" and "How does Buddhism differ from Shinto?" A wedding ceremony was taking place, and they photographed the procession. We took a break at Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu. We also strolled along Takeshita Street, but it was unpopular, as they said, "I don't like the crowds." We moved to Shibuya. After that, they viewed Scramble Square and walked across the crossing. They asked, "Why do so many people gather here?", "About how many people cross at once?", and "Why did it become famous?" We also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. After this, following their wishes, we went to Odaiba. After seeing the "Statue of Liberty" and the "Gundam statue," we walked around inside Aqua City. However, clouds had rolled in, so we were unable to get a clear view of the Tokyo cityscape. They made comments and asked questions such as "The trains are quiet," "The public restrooms are well-equipped and clean," "The streets are clean and free of litter," and "There are no trash bins on the streets. Why is that?" I saw them off at Ueno Station, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainUeno～Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 2TrainTsukiji～Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 3TrainMeiji-jingumae～Shibuya180JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya～Shimbashi180JPY
    Section 5TrainShimbashi～Daiba330JPY
    Section 6TrainDaiba～Shimbashi330JPY
    Section 7TrainShimbashi～Ueno180JPY
    Total1,590JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

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

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

    Jul 1, 2026
    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…

  • Ishikawa in Half a Day: Walk toward Kanazawa Station →

    Ishikawa in Half a Day: Walk toward Kanazawa Station →

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Hotel, walk from the hotel to Kanazawa Station
    • 13:15 Lunch at conveyor-belt sushi or McDonald's inside Kanazawa Station 13:55 Take the Kanazawa Loop Bus from Kanazawa Station to Kenrokuen →
    • 14:10 Stroll around Kenrokuen → After the stroll, eat gold-leaf soft serve on the teahouse street
    • 15:10 Enter Kanazawa Castle Park through the Ishikawa Gate and stroll around →
    • 15:40 Head to Omicho Market through the Kuromon Gate →
    • 15:50 Stroll around Omicho Market, buy and eat strawberries
    • 16:15 Walk toward Kanazawa Station →
    • 16:30 Following Dad's suggestion, take a commemorative photo in front of the Tsuzumi Gate and end the tour

    What's a Private Kanazawa Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kenrokuen and Omicho Market The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. They were on a 20-day trip covering Sapporo, Hakodate, Aomori, Sendai, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Osaka, and Tokyo. They had arrived in Kanazawa from Sendai the previous day and had visited the Nagamachi Samurai District and Oyama Shrine. In the morning they had done some accumulated laundry, so we started at 13:00. After a quick lunch at a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant on the second floor inside Kanazawa Station, with some of the guests grabbing hamburgers at a fast-food restaurant, the tour began. We took a bus to Kenrokuen Garden and strolled leisurely, then enjoyed gold-leaf soft-serve ice cream on the teahouse street. After that, we entered Kanazawa Castle Park through the Ishikawa Gate and walked around. Everyone was lively and listened attentively to my explanations. At the guests' request, we then went to Omicho Market through the Kuromon Gate of Kanazawa Castle Park. We browsed various shops and bought strawberries and bananas at a fruit stand, which we ate at Omicho Market. From Omicho Market we walked toward Kanazawa Station, and finally I explained the Tsuzumi Gate and we took commemorative photos to end the tour. When asked about the Pokemon Center, I explained its location at Kanazawa Station, and they said they would go to bed early tonight and stop by before catching the shinkansen after 11:00 the next morning.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKanazawa Station／Hokuriku Railroad Bus～Kenrokuen-shita・Kanazawa Castle／Hokuriku Railroad Bus220JPY
    Total220JPY

    Tour Report by Masayo

    Hello.
    My name is Masayo Shirai.
    I have been a national licensed tour guide of English since April in 2014.
    I was born. raised, and still living near the Higashi Chaya District in Kanazawa.
    I have guided lots of foreign guests in my hometown Kanazawa, Gokayama, Shirakawago, Takaymam, Kaga, Fukui, and Toyama.
    I have guided FIT, highend FIT, group tour, and bus tours.
    I have been learning tea cemoney, flower arrangement, and noh performance of noh chanting and playing the hand drum.
    I can take you to the experience spot of such traditional cultural spots in my hometown, Kanazawa,

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    Oct 5, 2025
    L
    LightPacker147788
    Kanazawa visit
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Very interesting tour with Masayo. She took us…

    Jun 27, 2025
    H6092PZsuem
    Pleasant and interesting morning
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Masayo was our guide for the morning.…

    Mar 16, 2025
    952bonnieh
    Wonderful!!!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We loved our time with Masayo! Thank you for a…

    Jan 3, 2025
    U5110ZKjades
    A day in Kanazawa with Masayo!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Masayo Shirai was an excellent…