Category: Uncategorized

  • Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:45 五日市クルーズターミナルに集合
    • 9:30 平和記念資料館
    • 10:15 平和記念公園、爆心地
    • 11:30 世界遺産航路
    • 12:30 厳島神社
    • 13:10 大願寺・龍髯の松
    • 13:30 表参道商店街
    • 14:20 宮島口フェリーターミナルでツアー終了

    Title: What's a Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Tour Like from a Cruise Ship? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. We started out using miles and feet, but partway through switched to kilometers and meters. Today the Norwegian Spirit's shuttle only went as far as Itsukaichi Station for US$20, so there was a long line at the taxi stand. I had them use a ride-hailing app and we headed to the museum. Because it was rush hour, it took more time and money than usual. The tour was originally only within Hiroshima city, but I was asked, "Which is better, Hiroshima Castle or Miyajima?" and I immediately answered Miyajima. I explained the policy of [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), and once the guests understood and agreed, we decided to go to Miyajima. They felt it was a very special place, and along the Omotesando shopping street they purchased a folding fan from a shop run by a woman from Hiroshima who happened to live in the same neighborhood. Since there was also a line at the taxi stand at Miyajimaguchi, they returned to the port using a ride-hailing app. They had not known that in Japan you can call a taxi through a ride-hailing app, so they were delighted.

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

    Tour Report by Michi

    Hi. I’m Michi. I’m a national licensed tour guide in English.
    I want to introduce many faces and charms of Japan and make your stay in Japan more fascinating and satisfying.

    I was born and raised in Hiroshima. My first tour in English was as a volunteer guide for the visitors to my school when I was a junior high school student. It gave me a great opportunity to study about the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima.
    I spent my life in Hiroshima except for 6 years; 1 year in the UK as a student and 5 years working in Singapore and Malaysia. During this period I enjoyed meeting and talking with people from different cultural backgrounds.
    These experiences encouraged me to be a licensed tour guide.

    In Hiroshima, there are two famous World Heritage Sites, the Atomic Bomb Dome in the Hiroshima Peace Memorial & Itsukushima Shrine in Miyajima.
    I have experienced many tours of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum & Park since I was a junior high school student. I would like to introduce you to the a-bomb legacies that are still existing in the city and the stories under the mushroom cloud.
    I also would like to share time with you on a historic island, Miyajima. There is one of the most famous Shinto shrines, the Itsukushima Shrine. We can share an enjoyable time by exploring a sacred atmosphere, tradition, nature, food, etc.

    I am also an official ‘A-bomb legacy successor’ designated by the City of Hiroshima. An A-bomb Legacy Successor is a memory keeper of the A-bomb survivors. To ensure that the A-bomb survivors’ experiences and desires for peace are faithfully inherited and shared with as many people as possible, the City has started a three-year training program for official ‘A-bomb Legacy Successors. ‘

    Let me support your stay in Japan and I look forward to showing you the best of Japan!
    Hope to see you soon!

    Request Booking

    Jan 2, 2025
    georgeweller
    Excellent tour by a very knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Michi-San was an…

    Nov 8, 2024
    Andrew M
    Awesome experience! Michi was the best guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Awesome…

    Nov 8, 2024
    Andrew_M
    Awesome day! Michi was an amazing guide!
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Awesome day!…

    Sep 16, 2024
    alexandermM7944BB
    Day tour with Michi
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Michi, our guide, was amazing!…

  • 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

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Hotel Meet
    • 8:20 Fushimi Inari
    • 9:45 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 11:30 Lunch
    • 12:45 Yasaka Shrine
    • 13:20 Nijo Castle
    • 14:00 Tour End

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. They had only just arrived in Kyoto and started the tour while still dealing with significant jet lag. We arrived at Fushimi Inari Shrine at a good pace, so it was relatively uncrowded. Since some of the guests wanted to take many photos while others did not, I arranged some free time at the Okunoin area. At Kiyomizu-dera, we did not go inside and instead viewed it from the outside. As the group's fatigue and hunger reached their peak, we had lunch, then visited Yasaka Shrine and Nijo Castle before ending the tour.

    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 2TrainInari～Tofukuji150JPY
    Section 3BusTofukuji～Gojozaka230JPY
    Section 4BusGion～Nijojo-mae230JPY
    Total760JPY

    Tour Report by Mizu

    Hello, my name is Mizuho Yoshikawa. Please call me Mizu and my name means rice and water in Japanese.
    I’ve been a tour guide more than 200 times since the spring of 2023 in Kobe, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Wakayama and Kochi. My tour is always original and new, depending on the guest’s preferences, encounters, seasons and weather.
    In Kyoto, one of my tours is to climb Mt. Kurama. It is about 1 hour from the city of Kyoto by train, it is a very quiet and beautiful mountain.
    In Osaka, which is called the kitchen of Japan, I am also in charge of food tour.
    In Nara, in addition to the Great Budda Hall, I guide guests to the temple with a really great view and Japanese wine, sake tasting.
    Every city has a unique charming point.
    The motto of my guiding is ” Ichigo Ichie” Once in a lifetime or seize the day. I learn this concept that the moment will never be the same again through tea ceremonies.
    I like a tea ceremony that is part of the traditional Japanese culture and embodies the spirit of “omotenashi” or hospitality. Through the tea ceremony, we can feel the spirit of “omotenashi” that has been passed down to us from ancient times.
    And I like to travel abroad and domestically, and I have been to 13 overseas countries and most of the prefectures in Japan. Traveling always gives me a new perspective, which is exciting and thrilling. Nowadays, we can learn a lot from the Internet, but traveling teaches us that it is important to have direct experience. When I travel, I feel that my five senses are infinitely expanded, and through my tour, I help all guests to have the same feeling in Japan.
    I was born and raised in Kanagawa Prefecture, which is next to Tokyo Prefecture in eastern Japan. When I was little, I could see Mount Fuji from my backyard. There was also a rice field nearby, and I grew up listening to the croaking of frogs. Listening to the frogs and seeing the mountains made me feel very calm.
    I moved to the city of Kobe, one of the Kansai areas in western Japan, which includes Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and so on. I’m not from the Kansai area of western Japan, but I think that makes me sensitive to the differences between that area and the Kanto area, Tokyo, where I grew up.
    Speaking of Kobe, you might be thinking of Kobe beef. Of course you do. There are also other sake breweries in Nada in Kobe. You can also go from Kobe city to Himeji Castle, also known as the White Egret Castle, which was the first in Japan to be listed as a World Heritage Site in 1993.
    Let’s meet and enjoy Japan together!

    Request Booking

    Sep 13, 2026
    946jakobr
    Mizu, as your guide in Koyoto, is the perfect guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed…

    Sep 5, 2026
    Sightsee18435593786
    De moeite waard👍
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Mizu heeft een mooie rondleiding geheven er werd…

    Jul 27, 2026
    OscarBrisenoJr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Awesome tour of Kyoto
    Seeing the temples and shrines…

    Jul 21, 2026
    MarcL3556
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful and Memorable Tour of Osaka with Mizu…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Kegon Falls & Shinkyo Bridge

    Tochigi in One Day: Kegon Falls & Shinkyo Bridge

    Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at the lobby of Fairfield by Mariott. Board taxi
    • 10:35 Kegon Falls
    • 11:40 Yudaki Falls
    • 11:25 Lake Yunoko
    • 11:40 Walk Ryuzu Falls from top to bottom
    • 12:20 Lunch at Ryuzu Chaya
    • 13:40 Rinnoji Temple Sanbutsudo
    • 14:05 Watch goma fire ritual at Rinnoji Temple Gomado
    • 14:25 Toshogu Shrine
    • 15:35 Shinkyo Bridge
    • 15:50 End at Fairfield by Mariott

    What Is a 6-Hour Private Nikko Tour by Taxi Like? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private tour of Nikko for a group visiting from North America. Some of the guests do not speak Japanese, and although the family has roots in the Hiroshima area, they were unsure whether any relatives remained there. Because we used a taxi for six hours, we were able to travel very comfortably and flexibly. Inner Nikko is at its most beautiful in this season, and everywhere we looked there was fresh greenery along with a colorful variety of blossoms such as wild azaleas, Shiroyashio azaleas, Tougoku Mitsuba azaleas, Himeutsugi, and Zumi. Although the weather was cloudy, the guests were able to slowly enjoy the beautiful natural scenery. One of the guests is studying architecture at university and was very interested in Japanese buildings. They seemed fascinated by the special structure of the five-story pagoda at Toshogu Shrine, whose central pillar does not touch the ground, and by the mechanism behind the "crying dragon" sound at the Yakushido Hall. They enthusiastically took many photographs. They were a wonderful group with a very warm atmosphere, and I was able to enjoy the day together with them.

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

    Tour Report by Yumi

    Hello! My name is Yumi. The Nikko area, Nasu area, in Tochigi Prefecture, and Aizu and Shirakawa area in Fukushima prefecture, where I will be guiding you, are not only surrounded by beautiful nature in all four seasons but are also full of historical attractions. Nikko, in particular, is a great place to learn about the culture and history that has shaped Japan to this day. In order for you to truly enjoy your day, I am flexible to your wishes and will prepare your day to be a great day. Because I am a local guide, you will surely see some sights that are not in the guidebooks. Is local food one of your favorite parts of your trip? I am also a sushi-making instructor for foreigners, so food is one of my specialties. I am also a certified sake navigator. Why don’t you come and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with me?

    Request Booking

    Aug 24, 2026
    arzed
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A perfect day!
    My family and I had an…

    Jul 1, 2026
    laine164
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day!
    We had a wonderful time exploring Nikko.
    Our friendly…

    Apr 7, 2026
    V2097LInickd
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Guide Yumi Highlights Nikko on walking tour
    Our 16,000 step tour…

    Apr 4, 2026
    O4367MVkarenv
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fantastic day in Nikko
    We had a fantastic day with Yumi. She…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shangri-La Tokyo & Ginza Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Shangri-La Tokyo & Ginza Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: Shangri-La Tokyo
    • 9:00 Shangri-La Tokyo
    • (Hired car)
    • 9:20 Arrive at Asakusa
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 10:20 Depart Asakusa
    • (Hired car)
    • 10:40 Arrive at Ueno
    • Ueno Tokyo National Museum
    • 12:30 Depart Ueno
    • (Hired car)
    • 12:40 Arrive at Hibiya
    • Hibiya Lunch: Hibiya Chanter
    • 13:15 Depart Hibiya
    • (Hired car)
    • 13:30 Arrive at Otemachi
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 14:30 Depart Otemachi
    • (Hired car)
    • 14:40 Arrive at Akihabara
    • Akihabara Akihabara Electric Town
    • 15:20 Depart Suehirocho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 15:30 Arrive at Ginza Station
    • 15:30 Disband: Ginza Station

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Ueno, the Imperial Palace, and Akihabara The guests were a group visiting from North America, all visiting Japan for the first time. Some of the group are studying at a university in North America. They arrived at Haneda Airport two days earlier and took a taxi to their hotel. The previous day, they had strolled around the area near their hotel. This trip was about a two-week visit to Japan. From the next day, they planned to travel around Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and other destinations before returning to Tokyo and then heading home. Everyone said, "We love Japanese food. We want to try many kinds and enjoy it." The tour took place under cloudy skies. First, we headed to Asakusa. Despite the early hour, there was a large crowd, making it hard to move forward. In particular, there were many international tour groups and school excursion students. We started from in front of Kaminarimon Gate. I explained about "Sensoji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo," "What the five-story pagoda is for," "What Buddhism is," and "The difference between Buddhism and Shinto." We took commemorative photos many times in front of Kaminarimon Gate, the five-story pagoda, and elsewhere. Everyone also drew omikuji fortunes, each getting results like "great blessing," "blessing," or "bad luck," which sparked lots of discussion. Some of the group also bought "omamori" charms. There were questions such as, "What are the main religions in Japan?" "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?" and "Besides Buddhism, what religions do people believe in?" There were also questions like, "How often do people go to temples?" and "Is some kind of service held at temples every day?" We moved to Ueno and the Tokyo National Museum. Everyone was interested in "Japanese history" and observed and photographed things eagerly. They were especially absorbed in looking at the Buddhist statues. There were questions such as, "When was Buddhism introduced to Japan?" and "How many sects of Buddhism are there?" They bought postcards at the shop. There was a request that "We're a little hungry, so let's have lunch somewhere," so we went to Hibiya Chanter. Everyone ordered only gyoza at a Chinese restaurant, and it was a short meal. We moved to the Imperial Palace. We strolled through the Imperial Palace East Gardens. I was asked many times, "Can't we see the cherry blossoms?" and "When do they bloom?" I explained "the history from the Edo period to the Meiji era," "the Meiji Restoration," "why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace," and "why the capital moved from Kyoto to Tokyo." There was a question such as, "Does the current Emperor of Japan hold any political authority?" Since they said, "We really want to see 'anime street,'" we went to the Akihabara Electric Town. We visited a few shops in a short time and looked around. There was also a question about "maid cafes." Here, the tour by chauffeured car ended. Since they said, "After this, we'd like to stroll around Ginza at our leisure and have dinner there. Please take us to Ginza," I saw them off to Ginza Station by subway and we parted ways. There were comments and questions such as, "It's strange that there's no litter on the streets." "Doesn't anyone throw trash on the streets?" and "This was my first time riding the subway, and it was very comfortable."

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwaySuehirocho Station～Ginza Station178JPY
    Total178JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Fushimi Inari

    Kyoto in One Day: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Fushimi Inari

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:30 Meet at the hotel, but check-in takes time, so the tour starts about 15 minutes late.
    • 13:30 Kinkaku-ji Temple, then a short break
    • 15:40 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 17:20 Fushimi Inari
    • 18:30 See off to Keihan Railway Fushimi Inari Station, tour ends

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari and the Bamboo Grove The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. I arrived at the Hotel at the promised time of 12:30, but check-in was still in progress and I had to wait while luggage was being taken up to the rooms. The guests were all cheerful and lively people. However, one member of the group had some trouble with their back and could not walk quickly, and found going up and down stairs difficult, so we used elevators, and at the bamboo grove they waited before the sloped path, and at Fushimi Inari they sat and waited before the Senbon Torii while the others went ahead. This person was calm and could be left alone with peace of mind. Because the tour schedule had become tight and this member of the group was quite tired, I explained how to return to the Hotel and ended the tour. At Fushimi Inari, some of the guests tried the omokaru-ishi stone. Fushimi Inari in the evening was, as expected, not crowded. The photo was taken at Fushimi Inari.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto City Hall～Nishioji Oike260JPY
    Section 2BusNishioji Oike～Kinkaku-ji-michi230JPY
    Section 3BusKinkaku-ji-michi～Enmachi230JPY
    Section 4TrainEnmachi～Saga-Arashiyama180JPY
    Section 5TrainSaga-Arashiyama～Inari240JPY
    Total1,140JPY

    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.

    Request Booking

    Sep 28, 2026
    Miguel_E
    Amazing Service
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful time with Kazuo.…

    Sep 27, 2026
    T
    TrailBlazer47194
    Kazuo Sumi is a great guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide Kazuo Sumi…

    Sep 1, 2026
    Steve6172014
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 7, 2026
    Pascale_Q
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Very good private tour of Kyoto with Kazuo
    We had…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Tour Nijo Castle & Tour Ginkaku-ji

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Tour Nijo Castle & Tour Ginkaku-ji

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30: Meet at the hotel
    • 10:00: Tour Nijo Castle
    • 11:00: Tour Kinkaku-ji
    • 12:00: Tour Ginkaku-ji
    • 13:30: Disband @ hotel

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour by Taxi Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji, and Ginkaku-ji The guests were a group visiting from North America. [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. I met the group on time at their hotel and we traveled by taxi to the destinations we had discussed in advance: Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji, and Ginkaku-ji. Because the available time was limited, I had to keep the detailed historical and cultural explanations of Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji, and Ginkaku-ji fairly brief. Fortunately, since all the transfers were made by taxi, the movement between sites was smooth, and we were able to visit all the planned sightseeing spots within the allotted time.

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

    Tour Report by Toshi

    After a rather long teaching experience at Japanese college, I converted my career about 6 years ago into working as a tour guide for the tourists visiting Japan.
    As my career overseas, I’ve been in the UN and the Japanese Embassy, all in the USA, totaling more than 6 years.
    And then I had made a big change in my career from a diplomat to an academic researcher. For that career to achieve, I studied abroad and won a doctorate degree in linguistics from Indiana University and landed a teaching position at college in Japan.
    With all these interesting and exciting experiences I’ve made myself ready to enrich your tour and make it both enjoyable and worthwhile.

    Request Booking

    Apr 26, 2026
    39ferdinandr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Exceptional and entertaining
    Great tour better the tour guide Toshi.

    Apr 9, 2026
    X1429XKclaudiam
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sehr zu empfehlen
    Wir haben als Familie diese 6-stundige Tour durch Kyoto…

    Jun 28, 2025
    WilliamAlfonso_R
    Toshi is a very eloquent, knowledgeable, and diligent tour guide.
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Toshi was…

    May 30, 2025
    Z
    ZevP5
    Best Tour Guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the best guide!! He was so…

  • Kyoto: Nara Park & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto: Nara Park & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 Meeting Mecure Kyoto Station.
    • 09:30 to 10:00 Nara Park
    • 10:15 to 11:15 Todai-ji Temple
    • 11:30 to 12:15 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 12:30 to 13:15 Lunch at Higashimuki Shopping Street (conveyor belt sushi)
    • 14:30 to 15:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 15:50 Dismissal JR Kyoto Station

    What Is a Private Nara Day Tour Like, With a Detour to Fushimi Inari Shrine? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. At the morning meeting, the guests mentioned that they had wanted to visit Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine but had not yet been able to. They said they would like to wrap up today's Nara tour a little early and stop by Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine on the way back, so I took them to Fushimi Inari. When a similar request came up previously, I reported it to [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) and changed the itinerary after receiving approval. Since this was the second time, I would like to report it after the fact.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKintetsu Kyoto Station～Nara Station760JPY
    Section 2BusKintetsu Nara～Todai-ji Great Buddha Hall250JPY
    Section 3BusKasuga Taisha Main Shrine～Kintetsu Nara250JPY
    Section 4TrainKintetsu Nara～Tanbabashi680JPY
    Section 5TrainKeihan Tanbabashi～Fushimi Inari220JPY
    Section 6TrainInari～Kyoto150JPY
    Total2,310JPY

    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…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Candeo Hotels Osaka Namba & Osaka Castle

    Osaka in Half a Day: Candeo Hotels Osaka Namba & Osaka Castle

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:25 Candeo Hotels Osaka Namba
    • 10:25-11:20 Dotonbori/Hozenji Alley
    • 11:20-13:40 Osaka Castle
    • 13:40 Go back to the hotel by taxi

    What Is a Private Osaka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Dotonbori and Osaka Castle The guests were traveling around various parts of Japan. Since they were moving on to their next destination the following day, they wanted to return to their Hotel by 2:30. They mentioned having eaten takoyaki the day before, so I recommended some other local foods, but they chose not to eat anything and instead enjoyed the signs and took many photos. At the Glico sign, one of the guests posed in the Glico pose for a photo before we moved on to Osaka Castle. They took many photos at Osaka Castle as well. They explored every floor with great interest, and from the observation deck on the top floor they took in famous Osaka landmarks (Tsutenkaku, Abeno Harukas, and the Ferris wheel at Osaka Station) as well as the direction of Nara, which they had already visited. Since they were in a hurry, we skipped the "Nishinomaru" stone wall exhibit. Their Hotel was close to Dotonbori, so we had originally planned to visit Kuromon Market in Nipponbashi after returning from Osaka Castle, but in the end they decided to take a taxi back on the way from Osaka Castle. Since the Hotel was about a 10-minute walk from Nipponbashi Station, they chose to head straight to the Hotel. There was still nearly an hour left in the tour, but they said they had thoroughly enjoyed Osaka Castle and that it was enough, and they seemed eager to return early to prepare. They kindly invited me to ride back together in the taxi, but since it was more convenient for me to return to Tennoji from Tanimachi 4-chome, we parted ways as the guests got into the taxi.

    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
    Total240JPY

    Tour Report by Yuki

    Hi! I’m an official English guide in Wakayama prefecture. I’m also a national guide as well. I’d like to expand my guide area to help tourists.
    The town of Osaka offers a different atmosphere than Tokyo. I like both exciting Osaka and nature-filled Wakayama Prefecture.
    If you stay in Osaka for 3 days, you can go to Koyasan for one day, or even for a day trip, so I recommend sightseeing at Koyasan.
    If you are tired of the hustle and bustle of the big city, the nature of Koyasan will relax you.
    I will introduce you to the unique culture, history and must-see sights.

    Request Booking

    Aug 17, 2026
    yasmintX6792FN
    Great trip
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  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajimaguchi & Atomic Bomb Dome

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajimaguchi & Atomic Bomb Dome

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

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 Meet at Urbain Hiroshima Central
    • 08:05 Move to Miyajimaguchi
    • 08:35 Move to Miyajima
    • 09:30 Miyajima sightseeing
    • 13:40 Move to Atomic Bomb Dome
    • 14:25 Tour of Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Park, Peace Memorial Museum, and Hondori
    • 16:30 Disband at Hondori

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania, visiting Japan for the first time. Although the booking was made just two days in advance, one of the guests responded to the request by setting up a messaging app group the following day, creating a group of three including the guide. Thanks to this, I was able to learn the name of their accommodation and their dietary needs the day before, which allowed me to propose an itinerary and lunch plan in advance and made things much easier. After leisurely exploring Miyajima at their own pace, the guests took time to thoroughly visit the Peace Memorial Park and the museum. They said they would love to come back to Japan again.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHatchobori Station～Hiroshima Station240JPY
    Section 2TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi Station420JPY
    Section 3TrainMiyajimaguchi Station～Genbaku Dome-mae Station240JPY
    Total900JPY

    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
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  • Kamakura Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kamakura Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kamakura Customized Private Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 -12:15 Meet at hotel, travel to Kamakura Station
    • 12;40-14:00 Visit Kamakura Hachimangu Shrine
    • 14:00-15:00 Lunch
    • 15:00-16:30 Travel to the Great Buddha, visit Hasedera Temple
    • 16:30-17:00 Travel to Kamakura Station

    Can You Do a Private Day Trip to Kamakura? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They had been very much looking forward to seeing the Great Buddha of Kamakura. According to the guests, there are many similarities in the ways of worship and in the making of Buddhist statues, so they took photographs and bought souvenirs at the shop inside the Great Buddha. This time, all of the group used Suica cards, so getting around was smooth. Since the guests placed great importance on taking family photographs, I did my best to help, even though I am not very skilled at it. They were impressed that the air in Kamakura was so clean, unlike in Tokyo.

    Click here for more details: Kamakura Customized Private Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKamakura Station～Great Buddha Front210JPY
    Section 2TrainHase～Kamakura Station200JPY
    Section 3TrainNihon-odori～Kamakura Station580JPY
    Total990JPY

    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!

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    Jul 30, 2025
    Michael_R
    Customized Hakone tour
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    panderhigs
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    May 4, 2025
    O9621SBscottp
    Kappa is a wonderful tour guide
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    My wife and I were treated…