Category: Uncategorized

  • Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 12:00 Meet up @ JR Sannomiya Station
    • 2. 12:30 @ Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum
    • 3. 14:00 @ Ikuta Shrine
    • 4. 14:40 @ Kobe City Hall 24th Floor & Higashi Yuenchi Park
    • 5. 15:20 @ Former Foreign Settlement & Meriken Park
    • 6. 16:00 Disband @ Motomachi Shopping Street

    Title: What's a Private Kobe Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Sake, Memorials, and the Former Foreign Settlement Today's guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. I contacted them right after the assignment was confirmed and received a reply, so I believed we had reached an understanding about the tour itinerary. However, on the morning of the tour, the guests made a request regarding the itinerary, so I quickly revised the original plan. We visited the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum, Ikuta Shrine, the 24th floor of Kobe City Hall, Higashi Yuenchi Park, the Former Foreign Settlement, and Meriken Park, and ended the tour at the Motomachi shopping street. The guests' request mentioned "sake, memorial, and area" as well as "Kobe beef," so I decided to include the sake breweries of Nada, the earthquake memorial park, the Former Foreign Settlement, and Ikuta Shrine, which is located near the steak restaurant the guests had reserved. During the tour, there were moments when I sensed that the guests had not read the email I had sent. When I confirmed by email after the tour, it turned out they indeed had not read it. That email said, "I had wanted to learn more about Japanese sake and Japan, and I was able to achieve both. Thank you."

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Train[Hanshin Electric Railway Kobe-Sannomiya] Station～[Hanshin Electric Railway Sumiyoshi] Station (200 yen)200JPY
    Section 2Train[Hanshin Electric Railway Sumiyoshi] Station～[Hanshin Electric Railway Kobe-Sannomiya] Station200JPY
    Total400JPY

    Tour Report by Norio

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

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

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

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

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet at the b ginza
    • 2. 10:00 Asakusa Sensoji Temple and Nakamise
    • 3. 12:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 4. 13:30 Lunch at Yamagata Soba Tsuki no Yama
    • 5. 15:00 Disband at Shimbashi Station

    Title: What Is a Slow-Paced Private Tokyo Tour of Asakusa and Meiji Shrine Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests preferred a slow-paced tour. Initially, the plan was to see the cherry blossoms at Chidorigafuchi and to travel using a free pass, but unexpected time was needed along the way, and since there was no news of the blossoms opening, we decided to skip Chidorigafuchi. As the itinerary only included Asakusa and Meiji Shrine, I deliberately chose not to travel by subway so that the guests could enjoy the journey itself. From the window of the JR Sobu Line, we looked out at the outer moat while I shared the story of Ieyasu's construction assistance projects, allowing the guests to relax in their seats and enjoy the sightseeing from the train. At Meiji Shrine, the guests seemed to sense something in the worldview of Shinto that felt close to a religion from their own region, and they appeared deeply moved.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassShimbashi～Asakusa700JPY
    Section 2Free PassAsakusa～Ueno0JPY
    Section 3TrainUeno～Harajuku210JPY
    Section 4TrainYoyogi～Shimbashi310JPY
    Total1,220JPY

    Tour Report by Kei

    Born and raised in Tokyo a half-century ago, I have lived in Tokyo all my life except for one year in the UK to study for a master’s course. I am a Tokyo Native with viewpoints based on broader local knowledge than anyone else. I have specialised in Japanese history, culture, and architecture since I was an architect.
    Also, I am a foodie emphasising Japanese traditional & healthy foods. I’ve been to many countries around the world, such as the US, Central America, Europe, and Asia. As such, I believe I can anticipate the needs of foreign tourists in Japan.

    Despite my experience as a guide for just two years, we can make the best out of our tour by travelling from your hotel to spots time-efficiently with my local knowledge, while accommodating your unexpected requests during the tour.
    My strong area includes Yanesen; Old Temples in a Quaint Village, Kamakura, Asakusa Sensoji, Meiji Shrine and Imperial Palace. All give you peace of mind.

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    Oct 22, 2025
    I5562SWphilipk
    Great intro to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kei was a genial and knowledgeable host, who…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Gary H
    Great tour of Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We loved our tour! Our guide was…

    Oct 5, 2025
    C
    Cindy_S
    Had one day in Tokyo and…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Had one day in Tokyo…

    Sep 15, 2025
    chrishN2970OC
    A highly enjoyable tour of Tokyo with knowledgeable local guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0900 Meet at Hotel Tokyo (5 min from JR Shinjuku Station)
    • 0920 Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue
    • 1000 Harajuku, Meiji Jingu Shrine visit, Takeshita Street
    • 1215 Marunouchi, Kokyo Gaien National Garden, Tatsumi Yagura Watchtower, Gyoko-dori Avenue
    • 1320 Tsukiji Outer Market, lunch at Tsukiji Sushi Ichiban Outer Market Branch
    • 1450 Asakusa, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple
    • 1530 Disband at the main hall of Sensoji Temple

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Tour with a Group Including Asakusa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of visitors from North America. Some of them had joined the group from another part of North America. It was the first visit to Japan for most of the group, though one member had visited Japan before. Before coming to Tokyo, they had traveled around Osaka and Kyoto. Their original list of desired destinations was quite extensive, so I adjusted it. In addition to the planned sites, we had included Akihabara, but as time ran short, we ended up skipping Akihabara. The pace of the group of seven was difficult to coordinate, and restroom breaks were needed intermittently, which caused the schedule to run longer. Partway through, some of the group became eager to have lunch, so we stopped at the place mentioned above. Since everyone ordered separately, this took a considerable amount of time. By the time we arrived at Sensoji Temple, some of the guests said they were tired and headed back by taxi partway through. I guided the remaining guests to the main hall of Sensoji Temple, explained the subway route for their return, and we parted ways. They then went shopping along Nakamise.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Shibuya167JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya～Harajuku146JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nijubashimae209JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijubashimae – Hibiya～Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 5SubwayTsukiji – Ginza～Asakusa209JPY
    Total909JPY

    Tour Report by Ted

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

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

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

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

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

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

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

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

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

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle & Kuromon Market

    Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle & Kuromon Market

    Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:40 Meet at Hotel Granvia
    • 8:40-11:00 Osaka Castle
    • 11:20-12:30 Shitennoji Temple (including lunch)
    • 12:45-13:10 Kuromon Market
    • 13:15-14:00 Dotonbori, Hozenji Yokocho
    • 14:00-14:20 In front of Hotel Granvia
    • 14:00 Dismissal

    What's a Private Day Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Kuromon Market, and Dotonbori The day before, a message came in asking to start the tour earlier, so we changed the start time to 9:00. Since I always arrive half an hour early, I let the guests know that I had already reached the hotel but that it was still a little early, and that they could take their time getting ready and come at the scheduled time. However, they appeared in the lobby right away, so we ended up starting at 8:40. Early birds? The guests moved at a brisk walking pace and were remarkably healthy. They were interested in history and Japanese culture, and seemed eager to try a variety of Japanese foods. We shared yakisoba, yaki-udon, and okonomiyaki. At Kuromon Market, they bought many Japanese-style eco bags as souvenirs. Dotonbori was crowded, but they said it was better than the Shibuya crossing. Since we had started early, Osaka Castle was still uncrowded, and we were able to see everything smoothly. I suggested we also visit the Umeda Sky Building, but since the guests wanted to return to the hotel to prepare for their Kyoto tour starting the next day, I told them that a Pokémon Center they were fond of was located nearby, and we parted ways in front of the hotel. Afterward, they sent me many photos we had taken together via a messaging app, along with a comment saying they had a wonderful time.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOsaka～Osakajokoen170JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 3SubwayShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka～Nipponbashi190JPY
    Section 4SubwayNamba～Umeda240JPY
    Total790JPY

    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

    Jun 23, 2026
    Shelley_E
    Viator review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    There is much to do in…
    There is much to…

    May 28, 2026
    Duncan_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Great Tour of Kyoto
    The tour was both very informative and…

    May 28, 2026
    ignaciosilenzi
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Koyasan with Miyuki
    Miyuki was…

    May 23, 2026
    189mirjamf
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Grandioser Einblick in eine fremde Kultur
    Sehr nette und…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Conrad Tokyo & Godzilla Head

    Tokyo in One Day: Conrad Tokyo & Godzilla Head

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Conrad Tokyo
    • 10:40 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 11:40 Isetan Food Floor
    • 12:00 Hanazono Shrine
    • 12:10 Golden Gai
    • 12:30 Lunch @ Tsukitei
    • 13:40 Godzilla Head
    • 14:00 Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Center Gai
    • 14:50 Imperial Palace Sakuradamon, Nijubashi
    • 15:30 Tokyo Station, KITTE
    • 16:00 Dismissal @ Tokyo Station Underground Gransta

    Title: What's a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shinjuku Gyoen, Shabu-Shabu, and Tokyo Station I guided a group visiting from North America. Just after the tour began, I introduced them to a UNIQLO store we passed, and since the temperature was higher than expected, one of the guests purchased a short-sleeved polo shirt. At Shinjuku Gyoen, the Somei-Yoshino cherry blossoms were not yet in bloom, but several other varieties of cherry trees were blooming beautifully, and the guests also enjoyed the Japanese garden, which they found very satisfying. In the basement floor of Isetan, they asked me for souvenir recommendations, so I suggested the mini yokan from Toraya, and they purchased strawberry and Japanese black tea yokan. When I mentioned shabu-shabu, the guests said they had never tried it and wanted to have it for lunch. While walking through Kabukicho, we came across Get. tei, where they enjoyed premium Hida beef shabu-shabu and ordered additional meat as well, which delighted them greatly. It was a semi-private room with Japanese-style interior decor and a nice atmosphere. After visiting Nijubashi, we had a little extra time, so we walked to Tokyo Station and issued the tickets for their return Narita Express (since they had a QR code, we were able to do it at the ticket machine). I took them to the rooftop garden on the 6th floor of KITTE, and since they wanted to explore the shopping arcade inside Tokyo Station on their own before returning to their hotel, I guided them there, explained how to get back to their hotel, and concluded the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShimbashi～Shinjuku-gyoemmae180JPY
    Section 2TrainShinjuku～Shibuya170JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya～Sakuradamon180JPY
    Total530JPY

    Tour Report by Takako

    Hello!! I’m Takako. Thank you for seeing my page. I’ve been showing guests around Tokyo, Yokohama and Kamakura for over six years. There are various things from historic sites, shrines and temples to cultural spots, good restaurants and anime shops in Japan.
    I love watching sumo wrestling, Japanese traditional sport.
    My favorite place is Tsukiji food market. It’s really exciting and you can enjoy a variety of delicious foods.
    I also like visiting Japanese gardens such as Hama-rikyu Gardens and Rikugien Gardens.
    Please let me know what interests you.
    I would be happy to make a suitable tour for you and help you stay in Japan comfortably.
    Looking forward to meeting you!!

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    Z222TCshannonr
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    6 hour guided tour of Tokyo
    Our wonderful guide,…

    Jul 9, 2026
    cronima2
    Perfectly guided day
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing day with…

    Jul 3, 2026
    johnoD792VT
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely Guide!
    Takako was an amazing guide! She gave strong insights on…

    Jul 3, 2026
    71nidhim
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Takako was extremely knowledgeable and showed us all the main…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Met at the lobby of the Hotel Main Tower. The guests were a Filipino-American parent and child. Headed to the Tsukiji Outer Market. Strolled around the Outer Market and Tsukiji Uogashi. Sampled beans and goma (sesame) samples and enjoyed wagyu skewers. Had lunch at Sushizanmai Okunoin. Each ordered and ate their favorites, such as nigiri, California rolls, and tempura, at 1:00PM. Went to Sanrio in West Ginza, browsed and purchased Kitty goods. Next, went to Meiji Shrine. Since the husband seemed to have some difficulty walking, I took the wife and daughter for a stroll. Meanwhile, the husband had a coffee break. Had them try the purification method at the temizuya (water pavilion) and how to pray in the Shinto style at the worship hall. From the main hall, we took a back path so they could feel the sacred and quiet atmosphere. The plan was to reunite and take them to the Pokemon Center before parting, but they offered to part ways since they would look around the area themselves, so we said goodbye there at 4:00PM. Since they arrived at the hotel last night via Narita, they seemed to be tired from jet lag and walking.

    What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Walking Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The plan had originally been to see cherry blossoms, but since they were not in bloom, I suggested visiting the Hachiko statue during the morning itinerary briefing. Along the way, the guests mentioned they were not particularly interested in Hachiko, so I proposed and switched to visiting the Sanrio shop in Ginza to see Hello Kitty, and we headed there. The guests were very excited and spent quite a while looking around and shopping. At Meiji Shrine, they experienced the Shinto purification ritual and prayer, which they found very interesting. They enjoyed drawing omikuji fortunes and writing wishes on ema plaques before placing them at the designated spot. We parted ways 30 minutes early by agreement, which was likely because the guests had arrived at the Hotel the previous evening via Narita and were tired from jet lag and walking.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinagawa～Shimbashi170JPY
    Section 2SubwayShimbashi～Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 3TrainTsukiji～Shibuya210JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya～Harajuku150JPY
    Total710JPY

    Tour Report by Take

    Hi, everyone!
    My name is Ryoji Takeuchi. Please call me Take.
    I am really glad to have an opportunity to guide you.
    I would like to tell you why I became a tour guide. About 10 years ago I traveled mountain area. On the same day I arrived there, Tyhoon hit the area too. A river was raging and maddy but at noon of the next day, the river became transparent, I could see the garvel at the bottom of the river, so clear. I just thought it was because Typhoon had passed, but the guide walking with me said water soaked into the mountain ground, then filtered. That pure water sprang up from the bottom of the river, so it became clear so quickly. Without a guide, I could not notice that natural mechanism. And I want to be like her, then I am a guide now.
    BY the way I would like to introduce my career and myself, briefly.
    I was born in the suburbs of Tokyo. I grew up there in nature, so I like nature very much. I worked at a construction company for 26years, a massage practice and an architect’s office for about 15 to20 years, and retired. I started to work as a tour guide in 2019. I like sports, such as swimming, scuba diving, Japanese martial arts(Judo, karate, sumo etc.), soft ball and so on, now walking and watching rugby.
    I often guide Tsukiji market, sumo watching ,Ninja and Samurai experience, and one day tour of Tokyo or old city Kamakura and so on.
    I often travel in Tokyo here and there with my wife. Tokyo has various faces, high technology, traditional culture, historical building, fish market, subculture spot and so on.

    Enjoy Tokyo with me!

    Request Booking

    May 8, 2025
    Jennifer_K
    Great way to start our 2 week trip!
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Take was a wonderful…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Shitennoji Temple & Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

    Osaka in Half a Day: Shitennoji Temple & Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet up @ Hotel Osaka Namba
    • 10:00 @ Shitennoji Temple
    • 11:45 @ Osaka Castle (exterior only)
    • 13:00 @ Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
    • 14:30 Dismissal @ Nankai Namba Station

    What Is a Private Osaka Walking Tour Like Around Cherry Blossom Season? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were from Oceania. The pace of the tour was slow, and we moved gently throughout the day. Each spot was extremely crowded, likely because the cherry blossom season was approaching. However, at Osaka Castle, a famous cherry blossom spot, the blossoms still appeared to be about two or three days away from opening. The guests viewed each spot with great interest. In particular, at Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, they experienced worship, picked up the popular "Go-Dai-Riki" pebbles, and showed great interest in the "petting rabbit." When I presented a handmade drawstring pouch made by my sister, they were so delighted that I felt almost embarrassed by their gratitude. Today, in addition to the slow pace, we also spent a great deal of time at each spot, so we parted ways more than an hour later than planned. (One of the guests was very apologetic about this.) The guests' English was very difficult for me to catch, and I believe I understood only about 50% of the conversation at times. (However, toward the end of the tour, perhaps because I had grown more accustomed to it, it became somewhat easier to understand.) Although the guests may have felt there was a slight communication challenge, as I repeated my questions several times, both of them were truly pleasant and always greeted me with a smile, for which I was very grateful.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNamba～Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 2TrainTennoji～Morinomiya170JPY
    Section 3SubwayMorinomiya～Namba240JPY
    Section 4TrainNamba～Sumiyoshi Taisha240JPY
    Section 5TrainSumiyoshi Taisha～Namba240JPY
    Total1,080JPY

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

    This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
    I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
    real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
    if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

    Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
    that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
    and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
    foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
    Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
    explanation for these three foods.

    1) Tako-yaki
    Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
    octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
    2) Okonomi-yaki
    This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
    Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
    3) Kushi-katsu
    Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
    ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

    Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
    that you like them very much.

    I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
    and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
    great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

    Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
    Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
    Yama

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    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Diane_B
    Viator review: Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Yama was amazing!!
    Our tour guide…

    Jul 4, 2026
    Navigator661725
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful time!
    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Asakusa

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @Westin
    • 9:45 Tsukiji (Hongwanji Temple, Fish Market, Outer Market)
    • 11:15 Asakusa (Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Hoppy Street)
    • 12:45 Shinjuku Gyoen, Light Meal Break @Sasaya Iori
    • 14:30 Shibuya Scramble Square Building, UNIQLO
    • 15:00 Disband @Don Quijote Shibuya Main Store

    Can You Do a Private Cherry Blossom Day Tour of Tokyo in Early March? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They were part of a group tour and had already traveled to Fukuoka, Karatsu, Naoshima, and Kyoto before arriving in Tokyo. Today they left the larger group and toured just as their smaller party. In early March, we had agreed on an itinerary to see cherry blossoms at Asakusa, Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, and the Meguro River. However, because the blooming of the Somei-Yoshino cherry trees was delayed, we changed Ueno Park to Tsukiji and the Meguro River to Shibuya before setting off. Since the guests had already learned during their stay in Japan that the blossoms were opening late, they accepted the changes without any problem. We decided to visit Shinjuku Gyoen because it has many varieties of cherry trees, so even without the Somei-Yoshino in bloom there would still be plenty to see. This turned out to be the right choice, as the Oshima cherry, Takato cherry, and weeping cherry were all blooming beautifully, and the guests were very satisfied. As we talked, it came to light that one of the guests had a connection to the same company I had once worked for, which made for a lively and enjoyable conversation.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHibiya Line Ebisu～Hibiya Line Tsukiji209JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa Line Higashi-ginza～Asakusa Line Asakusa220JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa Line Asakusa～JR Sendagaya356JPY
    Section 4TrainJR Shinjuku～JR Shibuya167JPY
    Total952JPY

    Tour Report by Hideki

    Hello! My name is Hideki Maruyama. I was born in Osaka and raised in the Greater Tokyo area. I obtained my National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate in February 2016.
    I spent 23 years working at a leading Japanese automotive company, including 7 years posted overseas. I then worked for a German premium automotive manufacturer for 13 years, followed by 6 years as an advisor to a British energy company. Through these roles at global corporations, I developed and refined key skills such as:
    1. Cross-cultural communication
    2. A deep understanding of business elites and affluent customers
    3. The ability to deliver impactful and impressive presentations in English
    In addition to my regular duties, I often served as an interpreter for top executives during meetings with foreign government officials. I also had opportunities to introduce aspects of Japan—such as our national character and consumer preferences—to leadership teams in both the German and British companies.
    As a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding guests from a wide range of countries especially after the pandemic, including the US, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Norway, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

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    Jun 14, 2026
    tiffany_w
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Phenomenal experiance
    Hideki san was an amazing guide. He was incredibly knowledgable…

    Jun 13, 2026
    Joshua_A
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The Best Guide I Had in Japan
    Hideki was, without question, my…

    May 2, 2026
    Bruce G
    Our guide (Hideki san) was a master. It was a rainy day and he suggested a new plan in anticipation…

    Apr 30, 2026
    johnbD9596UO
    Lovely Private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I had a great…

  • Kyoto: Ginkaku-ji Temple & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto: Ginkaku-ji Temple & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Celestine Kyoto Gion Meet-up
    • 9:50 Tenryu-ji Temple, Tenryu-ji Garden, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove stroll, Nonomiya Shrine
    • 12:30 Lunch at Omen Ginkakuji branch
    • 13:50 Ginkaku-ji Temple
    • 15:10 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 16:30 Hotel Celestine Kyoto Gion Disband

    What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour with a Licensed Guide Like? A Guide's Report Today's guests came from Europe. They had already visited Kinkaku-ji, Nijo Castle, Sanjusangen-do, and the Yasaka Pagoda the previous day, so today we first headed to Arashiyama. As one of the guests had trouble with their knee, we used a taxi. They remarked on the beauty of the Tenryu-ji garden and the bamboo grove. Afterwards, we went toward Ginkaku-ji and visited a restaurant where we had a reservation. They were very pleased and said the meal was delicious. They marveled at the beauty of the Ginkaku-ji garden and the magnificence of the thousand torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha. We returned to the Hotel by taxi and parted ways there. I believe they enjoyed the day.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainArashiyama～Kitano-Hakubaicho250JPY
    Section 2BusKitano-Hakubaicho～Ginkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 3TrainTofukuji～Inari150JPY
    Total630JPY

    Tour Report by Kaeko

    Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

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    Jul 25, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Half-day with private guide in Kyoto
    We spent half a day…

    Jul 24, 2026
    J6711TVnancyb
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Family Fun Day in Kyoto with young children
    Kaeko Tanigawa was fantastic at helping us create…

    Jul 13, 2026
    elizabethtW414DU
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Private Tour
    Kaeko was absolutely amazing from start…

    Jul 12, 2026
    johnkE8649IH
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Kyoto Day Tour
    We had a wonderful experience touring Kyoto…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi inari & Kenninji

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi inari & Kenninji

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 Hotel Vischio Kyoto by Granvia
    • 08:30 Fushimi inari (0) by JR trai0
    • 10:00 Sanjusangendo (600) by taxi
    • 11:30 Kiyomizudera (500) by taxi
    • Sannenzaka by walking
    • Yasaka-no-to by walking
    • 13:30 Kenninji (800) by walking
    • Gion by walking
    • Hanamikoji by walking
    • 14:00 End of the tour

    Title: What Is a Private Shopping and Sightseeing Tour in Tokyo Like With a Licensed Guide? The guests were visitors from Europe. Some of the guests enjoyed shopping and purchased a variety of items as souvenirs in several places, while others waited for the shopping to finish. Since a considerable amount of time was spent shopping, we skipped lunch. When it was over, I asked what they would like to eat, and they said they wanted sushi, so I directed them to Musashi. That was the first time I received the guests' personal contact information directly. As I believe has happened before, this travel agency had not shared the itinerary or map information I had prepared with the guests. The contact details, both the email address and the phone number, belonged to the travel agency. I received a response along the lines of the guests being pleased with the itinerary, but in the end nothing had actually been passed on to the guests. The communication the day before and the notice upon arrival at the hotel on the day were, in the end, only sent to the travel agency. Even the communication through [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) did not reach the guests and only went to the travel agency. I do not think this travel agency's way of doing things is particularly good.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Total150JPY

    Tour Report by Kazz

    I’m Ryoichi Kazuma and my nickname is “Kazz”. I live in Kyotanabe city next to Kyoto city. I want guests to enjoy Kyoto by seeing and experiencing not only from outside but also from inside. I offer various information from daily matters to traditional cultures. Most destinations in Kyoto are located on the eastern side or the western side. As I want to guide guests to as many destinations as possible, I make an efficient itinerary and recommend a taxi use to save time. Additionally, I take pictures at various spots and finally share the link to my storage. By doing so, guests can download their favorite pictures from my storage. Please enjoy Kyoto night and day!

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    Jul 14, 2026
    T6871WWricharde
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kazz gave a great one on one 8 hour custom tour…

    Jun 5, 2026
    mateoe216
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Would book again
    The tour with Kazuma-san was absolutely great. As someone…

    May 27, 2026
    Leah_D
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely recommend!
    I definitely recommend seeing some of the sights with a…

    May 26, 2026
    sheilacL3330KS
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very enthusiastic and knowledgable guide. Much appreciated
    Kazz was an excellent guide…