Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Gion

    Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Gion

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet up @ The Old Modern
    • 8:55 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 10:05 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 11:40 Bamboo Grove ~ Tenryu-ji Temple Garden
    • 12:45 Lunch
    • 13:55 Gion
    • 14:30 Dismiss @ The Old Modern

    What's a Full-Day Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Some of them had visited Japan before, but this was everyone's first time in Kyoto. Because of this, they requested only the most popular sightseeing spots, but since we were able to visit them early in the day, they were not too crowded, so I believe the guests were able to see everything at a relaxed pace. They seemed to enjoy the dynamic scenery of Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the calm atmosphere of the bamboo grove. Although the destinations covered a fairly wide area, the guests moved along in an orderly manner, so we were able to proceed almost exactly as scheduled.

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

    Tour Report by Hiro

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

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    Jul 13, 2025
    H2enjoy
    Wonderful Day Trip to Mt. Koya from the Osaka Cruise Terminal
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure)…

    Jun 20, 2025
    zoranm709
    Kyoto great tour experience.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyed the sites we were taken. Hiro was…

    Jun 18, 2025
    Adventurer310309
    Cool surprises on our Osaka and Kyoto tours with Hiro.
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife…

    May 26, 2025
    SK G
    Excellent tour
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mr. Hiro provided an excellent experience. Personable…

  • Niigata in One Day: Sado Kisen Jetfoil terminal

    Niigata in One Day: Sado Kisen Jetfoil terminal

    Sado Island in 1 Day by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:15 Meet up (Hotel Sunroute Niigata)　
    • 7:30 Arrive at Sado Kisen Jetfoil terminal by taxi
    • 7:55 Depart Niigata Port by jetfoil
    • 9:02 Arrive at Ryotsu Port, meet up with driver Kikuchi of Niigata Kotsu Sado
    • 10:15-45 Ride the tarai-bune (tub boat) at Shukunegi, Ogi Port
    • 11:05-55 Gold panning experience at Nishimikawa Gold Park
    • 12:15-13:00　Lunch (a set meal restaurant in Nishimikawa)
    • 13:30-14:50 Tour the Sado Gold Mine, tour the Kitazawa Flotation Plant
    • 16:00-30 　 Photo stop at Onogame
    • 17:30 Arrive at Ryotsu Port, part ways with driver Kikuchi
    • 17:55 Depart Ryotsu Port by jetfoil
    • 19:02 Arrive at Niigata Port
    • 19:15　　　Arrive at Hotel Sunroute by taxi, disband

    What Is a Private Sado Island Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests replied to emails very quickly, so we were able to communicate smoothly from the very beginning. The group visiting from North America felt a deep affinity for Japan. With some guests, when a tour runs for many hours, their words and actions can become inconsistent toward the end, which can be a challenge for a guide, but this group stayed focused from start to finish and truly enjoyed the sightseeing and conversation. They brought their own reusable bottles and eco bags, showing habits that felt very Japanese, so it was a comfortable and pleasant experience to accompany them. I myself live in Tokyo, so being included in the Niigata group is somewhat unusual, but I would be glad if I could help share the appeal of regional cities and remote islands. If it would not be an inconvenience, I would be happy to take on work in Niigata again. Because the means of getting to Sado Island are limited, [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) kindly extended the tour to include a vehicle. Thank you very much for your cooperation.

    Click here for more details: Sado Island in 1 Day by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherSado Kisen Jetfoil Niigata Port～Sado Kisen Jetfoil Ryotsu Port13,510JPY
    Total13,510JPY

    Tour Report by KAYOKO

    Hello. I’m Kayoko. I’m registered as a National Licensed Guide Interpreter by Tokyo Metropolitan City Government.
    I had been living in Yamagata City, 400 kilometers north up to Tokyo for 1 and 3 months, and now just have come back to Tokyo. I really enjoyed living in Yamagata.
    My hobby is horse riding and playing some musical instruments such as piano, clarinet, euphonium and tuba.
    Thanks to my riding experience, I had a special opportunity to do volunteer works at 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games in the equestrian venue in Tokyo.
    I am also a certified kimono instructor and can help you dress in the traditional Japanese kimono.
    I’m really looking forward to meeting you.

    Request Booking

    Sep 9, 2026
    Adrian_H
    Day trip in Niigata
    Viator review: Niigata Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    fantastic guide who went to…

    May 28, 2025
    X3079KNdeans
    Sado Island Experience
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Sado Island was a beautiful place with many attractions and sites to see.…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 The Thousand Kyoto Meet up
    • 10:40~11:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 11:50~12:30 Sanjusangendo Temple
    • 13:00~13:50 Nijo Castle
    • 14:20 Disband at Nishiki Market

    What's a Private Day Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Sanjusangendo, and Nijo Castle The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. They had previously visited Kumano Nachi Taisha in Wakayama, and were deeply impressed by how magnificent Nachi Falls was. They also said the fresh fish they had was delicious. At Fushimi Inari Taisha, they were struck by the vermilion thousand torii gates and took many photos. We also talked about the differences from Kumano Nachi Taisha, as well as the Japanese religious view of Shinto. At Sanjusangendo, they gazed intently at the 1,001 Buddhist statues and the statues of the 28 guardian deities. They were moved that these works were created about 800 years ago. At Nijo Castle, they admired the decorations such as the sliding-door paintings and the transom carvings, and our conversation extended to the circumstances that led to the return of political power to the Emperor. I saw the group off at Nishiki Market, where we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari～Shichijo170JPY
    Section 3TrainShichijo～Sanjo170JPY
    Section 4SubwaySanjo～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 5SubwayNijojo-mae～Karasuma Shijo220JPY
    Total930JPY

    Tour Report by shige

    Hello, This is Shige. I was born and brought up in Osaka. I have been enjoying working as a tour guide since 2016 after retired from a manufacturing company in which I worked at the overseas department. So I experienced a lot of business with customers in Europe, Asia, Australia, and USA where my three years of living and working at the subsidiary company with my family was the most amazing experience of my life. Well, Japan has a long history including ancient remains, historic buildings and cultures at each period over 2000 years. I hope you will enjoy exploring Japan in this tour. I look forward to seeing you soon.
    Shige.

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    May 23, 2026
    Sarajean_s
    Viator review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful way to get acquainted with Kyoto
    Shige was a…

    May 21, 2026
    828vickeyb
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Shige is a great tour guide for Kyoto
    Shige was an excellent…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Mariana_M
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking Tour with Shige
    Shige was an amazing tour guide and companion…

    Jul 4, 2025
    Marcus_C
    Osaka tour 2025
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful tour around Osaka. Our guide…

  • Edo Tokyo History & Culture Tour

    Edo Tokyo History & Culture Tour

    Edo Tokyo History & Culture Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00　Meet up in front of Yotsuya-sanchome Station Exit 1
    • 2. 9:20　＠JR Shinjuku Station Midori no Madoguchi
    • 3. 10:30　＠Ginza (Mitsukoshi underground food hall, Ginza 4-chome intersection, Kyukyodo, NISSAN showroom, Wako)
    • 4. 10:50　＠Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • 5. 11:30　＠Tokyo Station (station square, station interior)
    • 6. 11:45　＠Ryogoku Edo Noren
    • 7. 12:00　＠Ryogoku Kokugikan (Sumo Museum)
    • 8. 13:30　＠Meiji Shrine
    • 9. 14:20　＠Harajuku Omotesando + Takeshita Street
    • 10. 15:15　Disband＠bus stop in front of Harajuku Station

    # What's a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like When Shinkansen Tickets Go Wrong? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private walking tour of Tokyo for a group visiting from Oceania, originally from Asia. Some of the guests did not speak much English, so one member of the group kindly interpreted the guiding content into Chinese. The group was staying at private accommodation, so we arranged to meet at an exit of Yotsuya-sanchome Station. The meeting itself went smoothly and the tour began, but at the JR ticket counter (Midori-no-madoguchi), which we visited at the guests' request, we ran into a major obstacle. The guests wanted to collect Shinkansen tickets that they had been unable to pick up the day before, but it turned out that the transaction could not be completed with a mobile credit card. They had not brought the physical credit card used for the reservation and payment to Japan. We called the JR West office where the tickets had been purchased to inquire and negotiate, but in the end it proved impossible. First we cancelled all the reservations, confirmed the refund, then queued up again at the ticket counter and ended up newly purchasing tickets to Kanazawa and Kyoto. Over the course of more than 45 minutes, I encouraged the guests, who were becoming discouraged, and acted as an interpreter, bridging communication between the guests and both the JR East counter staff and the JR West representative on the phone. As a result, we managed to secure all the tickets needed for their trip to the regions starting the next day. This ate into the time allotted for the Tokyo walking tour, but we regrouped and set off. It was the first visit to Japan for everyone in the group, and one of the guests said that, considering their ages, this would likely be their first and last time sightseeing in Japan. So, although it was not part of the original plan, I guided them to the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and Ginza, which they were delighted by. The guests took many photographs. At Meiji Shrine, we happened to come across a wedding ceremony, which moved them. We were also able to visit the Ryogoku Kokugikan and the Sumo Museum, which had been on their wish list, and they toured them enthusiastically. At Takeshita Street, which they had requested in place of Cat Street, one of the guests wanted to see things not found in Oceania, so I showed them an otter café and a piglet café — we did not go inside, but it was a lively moment. In the evening they had a reservation at teamLab Planets and planned to return to their accommodation for a rest first, so we said goodbye at a bus stop to catch a bus departing from in front of Harajuku Station.

    Click here for more details: Edo Tokyo History & Culture Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Marunouchi Line Yotsuya-sanchome Station～Shinjuku Station700JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Marunouchi Line Shinjuku Station～Ginza Line Ginza Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Yurakucho Line Ginza-itchome Station～Sakuradamon Station0JPY
    Section 4TrainJR Chuo Line Tokyo Station～Sobu Line Ryogoku Station170JPY
    Section 5TrainJR Sobu Line Ryogoku Station～Yamanote Line Harajuku Station230JPY
    Total1,100JPY

    Tour Report by Noripy

    Hello, I’m Noripy.
    I am a lively woman in my 60s who loves having fun. My charm lies in my bright and approachable personality. Drawing on over 30 years of international experience, I began working as a tour guide in 2023. I have conducted over 100 tours annually, ensuring that my clients enjoy Tokyo and its surrounding areas. I have received high praise from a wide range of customers, from teenagers to people in their 80s. I cater to solo travelers, couples, newlyweds, families, and groups of up to about 10 people. Living in the heart of the city, I actively guide tours primarily in Tokyo. In addition to being certified in English, one of my strengths is being able to communicate effectively in Spanish as well.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you all in Tokyo!

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    Sep 10, 2026
    Sonal_G
    Noripy is just the best
    Viator review: Tokyo Vegetarian and Halal Food Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Noripy is such a…

    Jul 3, 2026
    Jody D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from Yokohama
    Best Post cruise tour ever
    It was…

    June 19, 2026
    Alec T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo in 4 hours
    Noripy was excellent! She guided us through…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Hema_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely experience. My…
    Lovely experience. My guide was an absolutely adorable lady…

  • Tokyo: Toyosu Seafood Wholesale Building & Yurakucho Station

    Tokyo: Toyosu Seafood Wholesale Building & Yurakucho Station

    Tsukiji & Toyosu Market Local Food Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meeting place: In front of Toyosu Market
    • (on foot)
    • 8:10 Toyosu Seafood Wholesale Building
    • Seafood Intermediate Wholesale Building
    • Fruits and Vegetables Building
    • 9:30 Shijo-mae Station
    • (Yurikamome) 　　　
    • Toyosu Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line)
    • Tsukishima Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 10:00 Arrive at Tsukiji Shijo Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Uogashi
    • Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 11:30 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 11:40 Arrive at Ginza Station
    • Ginza Ginza Mitsukoshi and others
    • 12:30 Depart Yurakucho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line)
    • Toyosu Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • 13:00 Shijo-mae Station
    • 13:00 Dismissal: Shijo-mae Station

    What Is a Private Tokyo Toyosu Market and Tsukiji Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, both visiting Japan for the first time. They had arrived about three weeks earlier and had already visited Hida-Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and other places before coming to Tokyo a couple of days ago. They were scheduled to fly home from Haneda Airport this evening. Today they were staying at a hotel near Toyosu Market. The tour took place under a cloudy sky. We started from the Fisheries Wholesale Market Building at Toyosu Market. I explained the history of Edo/Tokyo's fish markets since the Edo period, the differences between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market, and the tuna auctions. There were many questions, such as: "Where is the tuna caught?" "What is the price?" "Who is allowed to participate in the auction?" "How much does a single tuna cost?" "Are fresh tuna and frozen tuna priced differently?" and "Why are the tails of the tuna cut off?" We took photos in front of the tuna statue. We then moved to the Intermediate Wholesalers' Market Building. There was also a question: "Why can't we go inside here?" The guests also asked me to recommend a good sushi restaurant. After walking through the produce building, we headed to Tsukiji. We first strolled through Tsukiji Uogashi, and then went to the Outer Market. It was extremely crowded, and the guests seemed rather overwhelmed. We strolled at a relaxed pace, and they purchased and sampled matcha ice cream. We also walked around Tsukiji Uogashi again. After this, we went to Ginza, which the guests had said they wanted to visit. They made comments such as "Japanese people are all so polite," "The city is clean and there is no litter scattered around," and "Kyoto left a strong impression on us." I saw the guests off at Shijo-mae Station, where we parted ways.

    Click here for more details: Tsukiji & Toyosu Market Local Food Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherShijo-mae Station～Toyosu Station189JPY
    Section 2SubwayToyosu Station～Tsukishima Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukishima Station～Tsukiji Shijo Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji Station～Ginza Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwayYurakucho Station～Toyosu Station178JPY
    Section 6OtherToyosu Station～Shijo-mae Station189JPY
    Total1,090JPY

    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: Lake Biwa Canal & Guide ends at Kyoto Station

    Kyoto in One Day: Lake Biwa Canal & Guide ends at Kyoto Station

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:45　Meet the arriving Nozomi train on the platform at Kyoto Station
    • 9:20　Lake Biwa Canal
    • 9:45　Philosopher's Path
    • 10:15　Ginkaku-ji Temple
    • 11:25　Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 12:10　Lunch near Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 12:45　Stroll from Sannenzaka to Ninenzaka, etc.
    • 13:30　Yasaka Shrine
    • 14:20　Stroll around Gion
    • 14:50　Purchase a kitchen knife at a knife shop in Nishiki Market
    • 15:20　Guide ends at Kyoto Station

    Title: What's a 6-Hour Private Walking Tour of Kyoto's Higashiyama Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests came from Europe. Although the regional accent can be strong, I had no trouble understanding, as I had visited the area many times during my time based in London. We walked from the Philosopher's Path to Ginkaku-ji Temple. Visitors from Europe, much like Japanese people, tend to appreciate the aesthetics of wabi-sabi. We had planned to stroll from Sannenzaka through the Higashiyama district, but since the guests had previously come to Kiyomizu-dera Temple only to find it closed after hours, I guided them there this time. They enjoyed the view from the veranda and the Otowa Waterfall. During the walk from Sannenzaka, the guests bought souvenirs as gifts. At Yasaka Shrine, they were delighted by the deities of beauty, of kitchen knives, and of matchmaking. From Gion, we walked through Pontocho, and finally at Nishiki Market they purchased a top-quality Japanese kitchen knife, as cooking is one of their hobbies. It was an enjoyable six hours together.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto～Keage260JPY
    Section 2TrainDemachiyanagi～Kiyomizu-Gojo280JPY
    Section 3TrainKyoto-Kawaramachi～Kyoto390JPY
    Total930JPY

    Tour Report by Shuji

    My name is Shuji, meaning “Excellent Manager” in English. I was born in Hiroshima 1952. I have 2 children and 3 grandchildren.
    After graduating Kyoto Univ. I joined Mitsubishi-UFJ Bank, Osaka Branch where I met my wife who was a master of Englsih, so I started studying English.
    The bank allowed me to go to Columbia Graduate business school in New York and got MBA Degree there. I worked in London and Manchester Branch.
    During staying in U.K., I was introduced by BBC and Financial Times News Paper about my achievement there. I was selected as a personal assistant and interpreter for the President of the Bank.
    I made many business trips with him to overseas countries. I experienced as an interpreter for meeting late Henry Kissinger and the President of Citi. Corp.
    I changed the job to ORIX corporation, there I was promoted to a Board Member. When the company had acquired Dutch company, I was a member as an accountant to check the Dutch company’s statements of accounts.
    My hobbies are cooking, singing a song, playing tennis & golf, enjoy seeing arts especially opera & musical, travel. I am also busy with taking care of grandchildren. I passed Government Licensed Guide Exam. in 2016. After I retired in 2017, I started guide job as a part timer. So far, I accomplished guide job more than 500 times.
    My area coverage is from Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji to Kyoto, Nara, Oaka, Hiroshima. I am also able to guide Tea Ceremony, Maiko/Geisha, Sushi Making, Calligraphy, Sumo, Samurai, etc. I can speak excellent English. My knowledge is very wide and deep about not only sightseeing places but Japanese History, Culture, Religion, Daily Life. I know many foreign countries and people. I love talking with all kinds of people including babies with interesting humor.
    By the way, I look young for my age of 74.

    Request Booking

    Sep 16, 2026
    Nusret_K
    See the best of Tokyo for a few hours
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide…

    Jul 16, 2026
    salomons666
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto fun
    Amazing with our guide Shuji very kind and acknowledge

    Jul 15, 2026
    P9099TXkennethr
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    A great day
    A great day in the Company of mr. Shuji.

    Jun 28, 2026
    A
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    AmyfromPlano
    Shuji is the best! Once we booked this tour, he reached…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Hiroo Station & Asakusa Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Hiroo Station & Asakusa Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meeting place: Hotel
    • 8:10 Depart Hiroo Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 8:30 Arrive Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Uogashi
    • Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 10:00 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 10:20 Arrive Kamiyacho Station
    • Kamiyacho Tokyo Tower
    • 11:30 Depart Kamiyacho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 11:50 Arrive Suehirocho Station
    • Akihabara Akihabara Electric Town
    • Lunch: Sushiro Akihabara
    • 13:00 Depart Suehirocho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:20 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • 14:10 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 15:00 Hiroo Station
    • 15:00 Disband: Hiroo Station

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Tokyo Tower, Akihabara, and Asakusa The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America, all visiting Japan for the first time. They arrived at Haneda Airport via a connecting flight and took a taxi to their hotel. The day before, they had explored Harajuku and Shibuya and enjoyed yakiniku in the evening. They planned to stay in Japan for about two weeks, later visiting Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka before returning to Tokyo and heading home. They told me, "We want to have all sorts of experiences in Japan." Although the sky was cloudy, we were able to run the tour without any rain. First, we went to Tsukiji Market. I explained the history of the fish market dating back to the Edo period, as well as the differences between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market. The guests asked, "Why are there so many people here?" and "Do all Tokyo residents come here to buy fish?" We strolled around slowly, and they bought and sampled octopus crackers, strawberry mochi, fried sweet potato, and matcha ice cream. We also walked through the Tsukiji Uogashi building. One of the guests said, "This place is so interesting, I'll come back again early tomorrow morning." Next, we moved to Tokyo Tower (at the guests' strong request that they absolutely wanted to go). They remarked, "Now we really understand how vast and spread out Tokyo is." They bought a magnet as a souvenir. We then moved to Akihabara (at the request of one of the guests). We strolled through the electronics district, and they bought a large amount of character goods and building blocks. The guests wanted to have lunch somewhere. Since some of the guests loved sushi while others did not eat fish, we ended up going to a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant. Some of the guests had nigiri sushi, while others had ramen, and others had tempura and fried potatoes. After a short break, we headed to Asakusa. It was extremely crowded, and it was difficult to make our way forward. Starting from the front of Kaminarimon Gate, I explained the history of Sensoji Temple and the transition from Edo to Tokyo, the purpose of the five-story pagoda, an overview of Buddhism, and the differences between Buddhism and Shinto. We took commemorative photos many times in front of Kaminarimon and the five-story pagoda. The guests asked questions such as, "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?" and "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people follow here?" They also asked, "What kind of teaching is Shinto?", "When did Shinto originate?", and "How many shrines are there in Japan?" They made comments and asked questions such as, "It's amazing that there is no trash on the streets," "Do people really never throw trash on the streets?", "This was our first time riding the subway, and it was very comfortable and convenient," and "Why are there no trash cans on the streets?" The guests said, "We're tired and would like to head back to the hotel, but we don't know how to get there," so I saw them off at Hiroo Station, where 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 1SubwayHiroo Station～Tsukiji Station209JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji Station～Kamiyacho Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayKamiyacho Station～Suehirocho Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwaySuehirocho Station～Asakusa Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa Station～Hiroo Station252JPY
    Total995JPY

    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…

  • Hyogo in One Day: pick you up in front of the port of Kobe & Ippodo

    Hyogo in One Day: pick you up in front of the port of Kobe & Ippodo

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Kobe: Private Car Tour, Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:45 pick you up in front of the port of Kobe.
    • 10:10 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 10:50 (leave)
    • 11:10 Gion area
    • 11:40 (leave)
    • 12:00 Nijojo Castle
    • 12:40 (leave)
    • 13:10 Arashiyama
    • ・Tenryuji Temple
    • 13:40 (leave)
    • 14:10 Kinkakuji Temple
    • 15:00 (leave)
    • 15:20 Ippodo
    • 15:50 (;eave)
    • 17:20 return to the port of Kobe.

    What's a Private Day Tour of Kyoto from Kobe Port Like? A Licensed Guide's Report 1. The guests were a group from North America. 2. The tour was scheduled to start at 9:00, but we met at 8:45 and started the tour early. 3. The guests were deeply impressed by the Senbon Torii at Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. 4. We were going to have lunch, but since the guests had eaten a full breakfast, we skipped lunch. 5. Upon arriving in Arashiyama, the guests expressed a wish to buy matcha tea utensils, so I adjusted the schedule to spend slightly less time than usual at Tenryu-ji Temple and Kinkaku-ji Temple. 6. Finally, we stopped by Ippodo. The guests purchased tea utensils for about 20,000 yen. 7. On the way back, there was no traffic congestion, and we returned smoothly to Kobe Port Terminal.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto in 1 Day from Kobe: Private Car Tour, Licensed Guide

    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: Nijo Castle & Kyoto Station Skywalk

    Kyoto: Nijo Castle & Kyoto Station Skywalk

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Meet (@RIHGA Gran Kyoto)
    • 9:00-9:40 Travel (Subway; Kyoto→Nijojo-mae)
    • 9:40-10:50 Nijo Castle visit
    • 10:50-11:20 Travel (City Bus; Nijojo-mae→Kinkakuji-michi)
    • 11:30-12:10 Kinkakuji Temple visit
    • 12:20-13:10 Lunch (CoCo Kana)
    • 13:20-13:40 Travel (City Bus; Kinkakuji-michi→Ryoanji-mae)
    • 13:40-14:30 Ryoanji Temple visit
    • 14:40-15:10 Travel (City Bus; Ryoanji-mae→Imadegawa Station)
    • 15:20-16:10 Kyoto Imperial Palace visit
    • 16:10-16:30 Travel (Imadegawa→Kyoto Station)
    • 16:30-17:00 Kyoto Station Skywalk stroll
    • 17:00 Tour ends, farewell at the hotel

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nijo Castle and Ryoanji The guests were visitors from Europe. They stayed in Tokyo and Hakone before arriving in Kyoto, and it was their first time visiting Japan. I took them to Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji, Ryoan-ji, and the Kyoto Imperial Palace. The guests were especially interested in Zen, so at Ryoan-ji I explained Zen Buddhism in detail through the rock garden. One of the guests said the magnificent Nijo Castle was their favorite. Another guest was fond of Ryoan-ji and purchased a miniature rock garden paper weight (two of them) and a keychain inscribed with "ware tada taru wo shiru" as souvenirs. I believe they were able to learn a little about the spirit of Zen and its sense of simplicity.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto～Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 2BusNijojo-mae～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 3BusKinkakuji-michi～Ryoanji-mae230JPY
    Section 4BusRyoanji-mae～Subway Imadegawa Station230JPY
    Section 5SubwayImadegawa～Kyoto260JPY
    Total1,210JPY

    Tour Report by Michi

    My name is (Mr.)Michiharu Aioi and I worked at Electronic Manufacturing Company (Panasonic) for more than 40 years in charge of overseas sales.
    I learned a lot in these 40 years and now I would like to contribute to the promotion of mutual understanding with foreign countries being involved in tourism busines utilizing my long experience in my previous company. I will do my best to make each trip very fruitful for each foreign visitor.
    As for my language ability, in addition to English, I can speak Spanish which I used in my job and I can communicate with Chinese people with intermediate level. Finally It is my great pleasure if my activity could work in the mutual understang with foreign visitors. Thanks a Lot !

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    Aug 4, 2026
    Elie_S
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Wonderful and informative walking tour with Michi
    We had a lovely…

    Jul 19, 2026
    Wander35832177180
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Kyoto temple tour
    Our Kyoto guided tour (Aioi Michiharu) was a…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Abby_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour. Highly recommend
    Michi our guide was excellent!…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Javier P
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto gems
    Michi was incredibly courteous and informative.…

  • Kyoto: Nara Park & Lunach at Higashimuki Shopping Street

    Kyoto: Nara Park & Lunach at Higashimuki Shopping Street

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meeting Hilton Kyoto
    • 11:00 to 11:30 Nara Park
    • 12:00 to 13:00 Todaiji Temple
    • 13:15 to 13:45 Nigatsudo Hall
    • 14:00 to 14:45 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 15:15 to 16:00 Lunach at Higashimuki Shopping Street (Pizza)
    • 16;15 Dismissal Kintetsu Nara Station

    Title: What Is a Private Nara Day Tour from Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. I guided them on a private day tour of Nara. The tour began with a train ride, followed by a walk through the restaurant area near Kintetsu Nara Station. From there we proceeded on foot toward Todaiji Temple along the paved sidewalk, then continued up the sloping path leading to Nigatsudo Hall. Afterward, we walked from Todaiji Temple toward Kasuga Taisha Shrine. When checking the walking route, the map indicated about 7 minutes, though it took around 11 minutes in practice. Later, I called a taxi using the Go app; the estimated arrival was about 6 minutes, but it actually took around 10 minutes. For the return trip to Kyoto, I arranged a reserved-seat limited express on the Kintetsu line. As I would need to purchase the limited express ticket at my own expense and therefore would not be riding the reserved-seat limited express, I was unable to accompany the guests all the way to Kyoto, so we parted ways a little earlier than planned at Kintetsu Nara Station. If a low review is posted, I would appreciate it if it could be forwarded to me, if that is acceptable.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSubway Kyoto City Hall～Kintetsu Nara1,020JPY
    Total1,020JPY

    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 !!

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    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…