Category: Uncategorized

  • Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour

    Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9am Meet at Shimizu Port→Train→Fujinomiya Station→11:00 Shizuoka Prefecture World Heritage Center 12:15 Lunch→Fujinomiya Sengen Shrine→13:30 Tea tasting at a tea shop→Fujinomiya Station→15:15 See off at Shimizu Station

    What's a Private Day Tour from Shimizu Port to Mount Fuji Area Like? A Licensed Guide's Report After meeting at Shimizu Port at 9:00 a.m., we took the train to the Mount Fuji World Heritage Centre in Shizuoka Prefecture. Unfortunately, clouds hung over the sky that day and Mount Fuji was not visible, but the guests studied the exhibits inside the centre attentively and seemed to deepen their understanding. While walking, they noticed the tactile paving blocks on the ground, and when I explained them, they exclaimed "How considerate!" in surprise. After a lunch of soba and tempura, we visited Fujinomiya Sengen Shrine and then stopped by the familiar tea shop. As always, the warm hospitality at the shop delighted the guests, the conversation flowed, and it made a wonderful memory for them on the final day of their stay in Japan.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherShimizu Station~Fujinomiya Station590JPY
    Section 2OtherFujinomiya Station~Shimizu Station590JPY
    Total1,180JPY

    My name is Kazunori Honma, I live in Odawara city near Hakone facing Pacific Ocean, so I am familiar with Mt. Fuji and Hakone area. In particular, nature, history, culture and food in the region are my specialty. I know a lot of Shinto shrines, temples, and hiking trails. Plus, I love art, so I am able to guide you to a wide variety of art museums in Mt. Fuji and Hakone area. If you are an art lover, you will be able to spend a fulfilling time with me.
    I thoroughly make preparations for your interests and needs to satisfy you with all my effort in advance. I’m sure you will definitely be happy with spending a day with me.

    Jun 4, 2026
    Companion12422328239
    Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Shizuoka Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Great views of Mt Fuji and local tea
    We had…

    May 28, 2026
    kam_g
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    The guide was very nice…
    The guide was very…

    Apr 11, 2026
    Brandon2116
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Personalized Tokyo Experience
    Booking a private tour with Kaz was the perfect…

    Mar 29, 2026
    Stacy_A
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Thanks, Kaz! We recommend this tour.
    Great experience – it was…

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 meet 8:49 from Deyama take the Izuhakone bus to Soun-zan Station by ropeway to 9:45 Owakudani 10:15 by ropeway to Togendai 10:45 pirate ship 11:25 Motohakone Port Lake Ashi shore red torii 12:15 Hakone Checkpoint Ruins Donburi Chaya lunch Maruyama Bussan 13:55 bus from Hakone-machi Port 14:20 get off at Ninotaira Entrance walk together to in front of the Hakone Open-Air Museum 14:30 disband

    What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a very friendly group on their first trip to Japan. Mount Fuji made an effort to show itself, though the snow cap had become quite small. The guests were delighted and enjoyed the combination with the fresh green foliage. Some of the guests were a bit hesitant about the black eggs at Owakudani, but after a taste they found them comparable to an ordinary boiled egg and felt reassured. The guests enjoyed the scenery from aboard the pirate ship. When we went up to the red torii gate, entry was prohibited that day due to tree-cutting work. At a local specialty shop, they took great interest in the marquetry woodwork and made various purchases. As originally planned, I accompanied them all the way to the Hakone Open-Air Museum, explained how to return, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOdawara Station~Odawara Station6,000JPY
    Section 2BusDeyama/Izuhakone bus~Soun-zan Station Entrance/Izuhakone bus650JPY
    Total6,650JPY

    I am Hiroki Morikawa :Hiro:, English guide living with my wife ,just a hop skip and jump from Hakone, Kamakura, Tokyo and the Mt. Fuji.
    I am a friendly grandfather of 4 grandchildren.
    I would love to help you enjoy Japan, using my 3 strong points.
    First: I am used to dealing with any kind of matters. I have experienced various situations in the 40 years of my working life.
    Second: I am good at making a friendly atmosphere between you and local people to help you enjoy Japan. I was raised in western Japan, studied in northern Japan and now live in central Japan. So I know various local cultures and dialects to communicate with a wide variety of people.
    Third: I can explain things from a technical point of view.
    For example, how the Great Buddha was constructed, because I am a master of engineering graduated from Hokkaido University.
    Please enjoy Japan with me. See you soon!!
    dummy

    Jun 30, 2026
    G2432BLtimothyc
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Full Day Tour with Guide and Vehicle
    6 hour tour of Hakone
    we had a great experience with…

    Jun 25, 2026
    T7734IPbrandons
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in hakone
    Niro was perfect for us. He was…

    Jun 8, 2026
    JasonB6980
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hiro-san knows Hakone!
    Our guide, Hiro-san, did a wonderful job introducing…

    Jun 7, 2026
    Tourist31988989961
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura 8 hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide from Tokyo
    Great Day and Tour
    Kamakura was amazing. Enjoyed…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Gion

    Kyoto in One Day: Gion

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet
    • 10:00 Philosopher's Path, Honen-in
    • 10:30 Snack break
    • 11:15 Nanzen-ji Temple, Suirokaku Aqueduct
    • 12:30 Nishiki Market, Lunch
    • 14:00 Gion
    • 15:15 Tour ends

    What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Philosopher's Path and Gion The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time. I had received a message in advance saying they were tired because they had taken a day trip to Hiroshima the day before. For that reason, I paid attention to our walking pace. They really enjoyed the quiet Philosopher's Path. Along with it, I guided them to Honen-in, Nanzen-ji, and the Suirokaku aqueduct. Since some of the guests were tired and hungry, we passed through Gion and had lunch together at Nishiki Market. There was an idea to return to the hotel, but they decided to continue the tour, so I guided them around the Gion area.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusShijo Horikawa / Kyoto City Bus~Ginkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2SubwayKeage~Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)260JPY
    Total490JPY

    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!

    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…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Ranvt
    Local tour kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    I had a great experience on this local…

    Jun 11, 2026
    MamaL843
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing Kyoto with Mizu
    Mizu-San gave us an AMAZING tour of Kyoto.…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shiodome - Asakusa & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Shiodome – Asakusa & Meiji Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Conrad Tokyo
    • 10:20 Shiodome – Asakusa
    • 10:40 Asakusa 
    • 11:40 Kappabashi Shopping Street
    • 12:30 Tawaramachi
    • 13:20 Lunch Harajuku GON PACHI
    • 14:10 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:20 Shibuya Crossing, Tokyu Plaza
    • 16:00 Disband in front of PARCO

    What's a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, taking a 4-day Tokyo trip after a Japan cruise, having traveled through Asia beforehand. They were very active and friendly, as well as intellectually curious and deeply interested in Japanese culture. At Kappabashi, the guests carefully browsed the shops and were happy to purchase a kitchen knife after finding just the right one. For lunch at GONPACHI in Harajuku, the guests were delighted, calling it the best choice. They were grateful for the view from the 17th floor of Fukurasu (Tokyu Plaza) in Shibuya, describing it as a hidden gem. The guests thanked me for a very fulfilling day, and I saw them off at PARCO, ending the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShiodome~Asakusa220JPY
    Section 2SubwayTawaramachi (Tokyo)~Meiji-jingumae260JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku~Shibuya160JPY
    Total640JPY

    My name is Kris,
    Before becoming a tour guide, I worked for a major steelmaking company as an engineer for many years. During my career, I lived and worked in both Germany and the United States for a total of five years. These experiences helped me understand different cultures and ways of thinking, which now helps me connect easily with guests from around the world.

    After retirement, I chose a second career as a tour guide because I truly enjoy meeting people from different countries and sharing Japanese culture, history, and daily life. I have been working as a guide for more than nine years and continue to enjoy every tour.

    I currently live in Tokyo, but I was born and raised in Kobe, near Osaka, and my family roots are in Kyoto. As a result, I have extensive knowledge not only of Tokyo but also of Kyoto, Osaka, and many other parts of Japan. I enjoy introducing both famous landmarks and hidden local gems that many visitors might otherwise miss.

    I am energetic, friendly, and very sociable. I always try to create tours that are relaxed, flexible, and tailored to my guests’ interests.

    Travel is one of my greatest passions, especially visiting hot spring resorts. I have visited more than 80 onsen destinations throughout Japan, giving me a deep appreciation of Japanese culture and regional traditions.

    Whether you are visiting Japan for the first time or returning for another adventure, I would be delighted to help you discover the real Japan from a local perspective.

    I look forward to meeting you and helping you create wonderful memories in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and beyond.

    See you in Japan!

    Kris

    May 10, 2026
    Matt_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful Introduction to Tokyo
    We were so lucky to have Kris-San…

    Apr 29, 2026
    Rebecca_M
    Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour
    We had such a wonderful…

    Apr 21, 2026
    jacquir581
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We love Kris
    Kris was awesome! He was very flexible when our…

    Apr 2, 2026
    Frank_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A great day in Tokyo
    Great tour with an excellent guide, Kris.…

  • Tokyo: Tsukiji & Yurakucho. Guide to HOKA.

    Tokyo: Tsukiji & Yurakucho. Guide to HOKA.

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:45 AM: Meet completed in front of the information desk at Haneda Airport Terminal 3. Discuss the day's itinerary and lunch.
    • 09:40 AM: Arrive at Tsukiji Market. Explore all the alleys and visit several shops such as knife stores.
    • 10:35 AM: Depart Tsukiji
    • 11:10 AM: Arrive at Nippori Station.
    •      Spend a little under 3 hours strolling through Yanaka Cemetery → LUNCH (Momo) → Yanaka Ginza → Asakura Museum of Sculpture → around the former Yoshida Family Liquor Store/Kayaba Coffee → Ueno Park.
    • 02:00 PM: Depart Ueno
    • 02:15 PM: Arrive at Yurakucho. Guide to HOKA.
    •      After that, guide around the Sukiyabashi area, and at a coffee shop, explain and introduce shopping spots in the Ginza area, as well as the route home along with materials.
    • 03:15 PM: Disband. Tour ends.

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report from Sendagi to Ginza The guests were visitors from Oceania who enjoy skiing and had toured Tokyo, Kyoto, and Niseko about ten years ago. They stopped in Tokyo while in transit and were exploring the city before an evening flight abroad that night at 10:00 PM. Both guests followed a gluten-free diet. They mentioned that a trace amount mixed into seasonings would be somewhat acceptable, but since one of the guests also disliked raw foods, we headed early to a gluten-free shop in Sendagi that I had listed in advance. They had considered buying a kitchen knife, but since it could not be carried in their luggage (their suitcases were checked through their entire journey) and they had thought about shipping it via a courier service, they ultimately decided against purchasing one this time, also taking into account customs in their home country. Both guests were strong walkers, and we took two café breaks to enjoy coffee, which they loved. At the HOKA store in Yurakucho, they could not find the type they were looking for and decided not to buy, but they hoped to find a souvenir for their grandchild at MUJI, Don Quijote, or Uniqlo, and were looking forward to shopping in Ginza after 3:00 PM. That concludes the report.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHaneda Airport Terminal 3 (Tokyo Monorail)~Tsukiji Market700JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Nippori340JPY
    Section 3TrainUeno~Yurakucho200JPY
    Total1,240JPY

    Discover the Heart of Japan: A Journey Through Culture, History, and Flavor.

    Hello, I am Taichi, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter.
    Having explored the depth and diversity of Japan’s culture, history, and cuisine-particularly in the vibrant regions of Tokyo and Kansai-I’m excited to share my experiences with you.

    With its dynamic seasonal changes and centuries-old traditions, with its ever-changing seasons and profound history, Japan invites you to create moments that stir your imagination and awaken a deeper connection to its beauty.

    And Japan is more than just a destination-its travel experience engages your all five senses.
    From breathtaking landscapes to tantalizing culinary, every corner holds something to delight and inspire.

    Let’s embark journey of discovery, where you’ll sharpen your sense, create unforgettable memory, and embrace the true essence of Japan.
    I look forward to helping your wonderful trip.

    Apr 7, 2026
    Karistan_S
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Taichi was wonderful. He…
    Taichi was wonderful. He…

    May 15, 2025
    TJP1967
    Perfect Guide…..Taichi-sun
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hello. Taichi-sun was absolutely amazing. There was nothing he wouldn’t…

    Apr 14, 2025
    rgp728
    Wonderful Tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We used Japan Guide Agency for a private…

    Apr 8, 2025
    Sherif_A
    Taichi-san is an amazing guide!
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was our 1 day trip to…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Kiyomizu-dera

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Kiyomizu-dera

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Depart from the hotel, with a guided tour along Kiyamachi-dori on the way
    • 11:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 12:30 Lunch
    • 13:40 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 14:30 Kiyomizu-michi (Tour ends)

    Title: What Is a One-Day Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari and Kiyomizu-dera I guided a group visiting from North America. They were staying in Kyoto for just one day, after which they planned to travel via Tokyo before heading to Oceania. On the way from the hotel to the station, I guided them along Kiyamachi Street so they could enjoy the atmosphere characteristic of Kyoto. However, aside from one of the guests, the group did not seem particularly interested in the Kyoto townscape. It began to rain around the time we arrived at Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, but the guests enjoyed features such as the Omokaru-ishi stone and the Negiari-no-matsu pine. Afterward, we had a light lunch near the station, but perhaps because the portion of the coffee shop's sandwiches was large, everyone left a little behind. By the time we reached Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the rain had stopped, and when the guests viewed the Kiyomizu stage up close from below, they were impressed by its powerful construction. Since a tea ceremony experience in Gion was scheduled after the tour, I had originally planned to continue on to guide them along Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka. However, one of the guests had been perspiring quite a bit and wished to return to the hotel once. Therefore, about 30 minutes before the scheduled end of the tour, I saw them to a taxi at Kiyomizu-michi and concluded the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSanjo (Kyoto Prefecture)~Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Total240JPY

    Hello! My name is Umi. I was born and raised in Kyoto, and I still live here today.

    I have always loved traveling. When I visit another country, I enjoy learning about its history, culture, and way of life from local people. Talking with locals helps me understand a place much better than simply visiting famous sights. That’s why I became a tour guide.

    Through my tours, I hope to help visitors gain a deeper understanding of Japan. In addition to its beauty and traditions, I am also happy to talk about modern life in Japan. My goal is for my guests to leave Japan with wonderful memories and a deeper appreciation of the country.

    I’m looking forward to meeting you!

    Jun 29, 2026
    U3009CHlaurad
    Kyoto 4 Hour walking Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Umi was a great tour guide, very…

    May 9, 2026
    Adventurer745194
    Lovely intro to Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a lovely morning guided by Umi.…

    Apr 30, 2026
    jonathangG3501FZ
    4 hour private tour in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Umi was a lovely tour guide…

    Apr 27, 2026
    Jennifer_S
    Wonderful, thoughtful guide
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Umi was absolutely wonderful. She…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 Depart from Hotel to Meiji Shrine (from Tokyo Metro Nishi-Shinjuku Station to Kita-Sando Station)
    • 08:40 From Kita-Sando into Meiji Shrine grounds (worship at the main hall, stroll through the inner garden)
    • 10:00 From the south approach to Takeshita Street
    • 11:00 Exit from the east end of Takeshita Street and from Tokyo Metro Meiji-Jingumae Station to Asakusa Station
    • 11:48 Arrive at Asakusa, after viewing the entire Asakusa area from the view deck on the 8th floor of the Culture and Tourism Center, lunch at a soba restaurant
    • 13:15 After lunch, tour Nakamise and Senso-ji, then head to Shibuya (from Asakusa Station to Shibuya Station)
    • 14:00 Experience crossing the scramble intersection in Shibuya, see Hachiko
    • 14:30 To Nishi-Shinjuku (from Shibuya Station to Nishi-Shinjuku Station)
    • 15:00 Planned to visit the Metropolitan Government Building observation deck before returning to the hotel, but skipped due to crowds
    • 15:20 Arrive at the hotel, disband

    Tokyo First-Time Visitor Private Tour Itinerary: What Does a Full-Day Guide Plan Look Like? The guests were a group of eight visiting Japan. All but one of them were visiting Japan for the first time. The group did not tend to wander off on their own, so guiding them was relatively easy. Since the itinerary was left up to me, I arranged a typical course for first-time visitors to Japan (partly because many facilities were closed as it was a Monday), and they enjoyed it, including the Inner Garden of Meiji Jingu (the following day I received a message saying it had been a great tour). I considered going to Shibuya first thing in the morning before Meiji Jingu, but since there tend to be fewer tourists in the early morning and it would likely be less interesting, I decided to go in the afternoon. Even so, it was not very crowded, but they seemed to enjoy it well enough.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNishi-Shinjuku~Kita-Sando180JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-Jingumae~Asakusa260JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Shibuya260JPY
    Section 4SubwayShibuya~Nishi-Shinjuku180JPY
    Total880JPY

    I have worked as a diplomat for 48 years until last year(2024), so I think I am good at explaining anything about Japan in English. Though I’m a novice as tour guide, l promise that I will make detailed and thorough preparations for guiding you and to make your trip smooth and enjoyable. I myself like to experience various means of transportation and interested in local culture, history and food. You may be a bit concerned about my age(71 years old), but I am quite fit for work. Just to prove this I wish to say that I played 5 rounds of golf this summer month of August, 2025.

    Apr 16, 2026
    127dougg
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very enjoyable to have a day being toured about with no…

    Oct 25, 2025
    Julia_G
    Tokyo gardens and museums.
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Toshi is an excellent guide. He crafted a…

    Oct 14, 2025
    M
    Manohar_S
    Superb must see
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very scenic and beautiful trip… Mr Toshi…

    Oct 7, 2025
    Robert_H
    Lots of walking. We are…
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Lots of walking. We are…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Adashino Nenbutsu-ji & Arashiyama

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Adashino Nenbutsu-ji & Arashiyama

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:55 Meet at Kyoto Station
    • 8:55 Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • 10:05 Jojakko-ji Temple
    • 11:00 Okochi Sanso Villa
    • 11:40 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 12:00 Tour ends

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama and Adashino The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. We met at Kyoto Station and took the JR and Kyoto bus to Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple. Perhaps because Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple was closed that day, I felt there were more tourists than usual. One of the guests had a family member in the landscaping business who is interested in Japanese gardens, so they took many photographs to share. There is a gallery at Okochi Sanso Villa where a video of Denjiro Okochi can usually be viewed, but unfortunately it could not be seen due to an equipment malfunction. As they had made a lunch reservation just after leaving the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, the tour concluded there. The photo was taken at Okochi Sanso Villa.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 2OtherNonomiya~Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple230JPY
    Total470JPY

    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.

    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…

  • Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour

    Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Port 9:30〜Satta Pass〜Hiroshige Museum of Art〜Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre 12:30-Shiraito Falls 13:30-Kashi no Ichi Market 14:30-100 Yen Shop Lemon〜Port 15:30

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour Around Mount Fuji and Fujinomiya Like? A Licensed Guide's Report We met successfully at the port, and since Mount Fuji was peeking out a little, we headed toward Fujinomiya City, home of the Mount Fuji World Heritage Centre. Along the way, we stopped at Satta Pass to catch a glimpse of the mountain while we still could, and at the Hiroshige Museum we compared Hiroshige's works with Van Gogh's and admired paintings of Mount Fuji. At the World Heritage Centre, admission happened to be free, which felt like a nice bonus, and when we went up to the rooftop — feeling almost as if we had climbed Mount Fuji — the mountain was still faintly visible. After that, I invited the guests to Shiraito Falls, which they said were very beautiful. They had wanted to buy some loquats they had also seen at Satta Pass, but unfortunately they had no Japanese yen on hand, so they gave up on that. We hurried back to the riverside market, where they said cooked seafood would be fine, so they enjoyed an assorted fried platter and bought some Japanese-style paper fans and other items with 100-yen-shop lemons. The guests were visiting from Europe and treated Japan with great respect, asking many questions about Japanese society. It was a truly rewarding time as a guide.

    I have been teaching high school students for 40 years as an English teacher and guiding for 10years including a volunteer guide .Now I am a national government licensed guide. I have been dreaming to introduce Japanese culture including tasty Japanese food and history , our society and also some problems in it. It is a great moment of joy and excitement to be with you from all over the world. I love traveling around Japan and abroad myself. I visited East Germany ,too that does not exist any more. I am looking forward to guiding you in and around Shizuoka!

    Jul 26, 2026
    Edward_H
    Viator review: Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour, Licensed Guide
    The only way to tour if…
    The only way to…

    Jun 30, 2026
    Louisa_B
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    My Fuji Experience and temple visit
    Great trip out…

    Apr 14, 2026
    Bret_F
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    Great Shizuoka Area Experience
    We enjoyed a memorable day…

    Mar 27, 2026
    James_M
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    Loved are guide.
    Great tour guide. We loved her…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace East Gardens

    Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace East Gardens

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Courtyard by Marriott Tokyo Ginza
    • 9:35 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 11:25 Shibamata. After visiting Taishakuten Temple, snacks at a dango shop
    • 12:50 Asakusa, one person felt unwell and returned to the hotel by taxi from here. Took photos of Skytree and visited Sensoji Temple
    • 13:45 Lunch @ Handmade Soba Towada (we were told mipig café admits entry from 14:00, so this also served to kill some time)
    • 14:05 mipig cafe Asakusa branch (guests only) until 14:45
    • 15:00 Disband at Kanda Station on the Ginza Line (guests headed to Harajuku)

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Higashi Gyoen, Shibamata, and Asakusa The weather was fairly good, and the tour proceeded smoothly. Since the guests had no IC cards, we started by purchasing 24-hour subway passes. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace (Higashi Gyoen), it became apparent that one of the guests was not feeling well, so we proceeded with the tour taking frequent breaks. In Shibamata, this guest did not go up to Taishakuten Temple and rested at a shop instead. The hydrangeas at Taishakuten were beautiful and well received. After moving from Shibamata to Asakusa, this guest decided to return to the hotel, so we called an Uber and saw them off. After visiting Sensoji Temple, we looked into the mipig cafe as requested, but were told to come back in 15 minutes, so we passed the time by eating soba. The guests seemed to enjoy the mipig cafe and even showed me their photos. The original plan was to see them off in Harajuku and end the tour there, but we ran out of time, so I gave directions to Takeshita Street in Harajuku and the guiding concluded on the Ginza Line. Received a tip.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassGinza~Takebashi700JPY
    Section 2Free PassOtemachi~Ayase0JPY
    Section 3TrainAyase~Shibamata350JPY
    Section 4TrainShibamata~Asakusa380JPY
    Section 5Free PassAsakusa~Kanda0JPY
    Total1,430JPY

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…