Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel meet-up 9:35 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove 11:10 Kinkaku-ji 12:35 Nijo Castle 14:00 Fushimi Inari 15:00 Tour ends at Fushimi Inari

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Tour to Fushimi Inari and Arashiyama Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests visited Japan from North America. We discussed lunch options and I made a phone reservation for a restaurant. However, as time was running short, the guests suggested that we skip lunch and continue the tour instead, so we canceled the reservation and made sure to complete the tour within the available time. Thanks to this, we were able to finish the itinerary up to Fushimi Inari on schedule. Just before leaving Fushimi Inari, the guests mentioned that they would like to rest there for a while, so the tour ended and we parted at Fushimi Inari. Only a minimum number of photos were taken. I explained how to get back to the Hotel before we said goodbye. The photo was taken at the bamboo grove in Arashiyama.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNijo~Saga-Arashiyama200JPY
    Section 2TrainSaga-Arashiyama~Enmachi190JPY
    Section 3BusEnmachi~Kinkaku-ji-michi230JPY
    Section 4BusKinkaku-ji-michi~Nishioji-Oike230JPY
    Section 5SubwayNishioji-Oike~Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 6SubwayNijojo-mae~Sanjo-Keihan220JPY
    Section 7TrainSanjo-Keihan~Fushimi Inari220JPY
    Total1,510JPY

    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…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo Bridge & Toshogu Shrine

    Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo Bridge & Toshogu Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:20 Meet up @ JR Nikko Station, taxi
    • 10:35 Shinkyo Bridge
    • 10:59 Kurokamidaira
    • 11:10 Kegon Falls
    • 11:30 Ryuzu Falls (walked from the top of the falls to the bottom)
    • 12:15 Lake Yunoko
    • 12:45 Tachiki Kannon
    • 13:30 Got off the taxi, lunch @ Maruhide Shokudo
    • 14:30 Rinnoji Temple
    • 15:00 Toshogu Shrine
    • 16:15 Disband @ JR Nikko Station

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Nikko Like from Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from Europe, spending part of a longer trip in Japan, with Nikko being their first sightseeing destination outside of Tokyo. Since they mentioned that their home area has no mountains, I focused more on enjoying the nature of Oku-Nikko. They seemed to greatly enjoy the beautiful scenery, including the changes in elevation, the mountain ranges, lakes, waterfalls, and snowy landscapes. After lunch, while visiting Rinno-ji Temple, one of the guests felt nauseous and went to the restroom. I was worried that the lunch might not have agreed with them, but since I ate the same meal without any problem, it did not seem to be the food. It turned out that the stomach discomfort had actually started the previous evening and was worse this morning. There had been no sign of it while we were in Oku-Nikko, so I had not noticed. Lunch was a "yuba-don," which is very healthy and one of the gentlest options, so the discomfort was likely due to jet lag, the early start, and fatigue from unfamiliar meals. After that, I was careful not to place any burden on them and kept my explanations short. Originally the tour was scheduled to continue until 4:30 and to return on the 17:19 train, but I changed it to a train one hour earlier. After we parted ways, I emailed the photos I had taken that day and asked how they were doing, and they said they were fine. Perhaps out of kindness, they said the lunch had been a perfect choice and that they were glad to have seen more than they expected, which put me at ease.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusShinkyo Bridge~Tobu Nikko Station220JPY
    Total220JPY

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

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

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

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

    Nov 10, 2025
    Salutory
    A fascinating tour with a friendly and knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Yumi…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Imperial Palace & Shiodome Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Imperial Palace & Shiodome Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Hotel
    • 13:40 Imperial Palace
    • 14:00 Nihombashi Takashimaya
    • 14:40 Hamarikyu
    • 15:50 Tokyo Tower
    • 17:00 Shiodome Station

    What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace and Hamarikyu Gardens The guests were visitors from Europe. As they had dietary preferences that limited their choices, I created and handed them a point-and-show card to help them ask questions about menus at restaurants, which they were very happy to receive. At the Imperial Palace the Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms had not yet bloomed, but when I mentioned that "Japanese people eat cherry blossom petals and leaves," the guests were surprised. So on the spur of the moment, we stopped at a department store in Nihonbashi, which was our transfer station, and bought sakura mochi, then enjoyed it like a picnic at Hamarikyu Gardens. Since they had few options they could eat, they said they were glad to have been able to try a Japanese sweet.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOdaiba~Shiodome325JPY
    Section 2SubwayShiodome~Monzen-nakacho220JPY
    Section 3SubwayMonzen-nakacho~Takebashi66JPY
    Section 4SubwayTakebashi~Nihombashi178JPY
    Section 5SubwayNihombashi~Shimbashi178JPY
    Section 6SubwayShiodome~Akabanebashi178JPY
    Section 7SubwayAkabanebashi~Shiodome178JPY
    Total1,323JPY

    Hi, I’m Sam.
    I am happy to welcome you all to Japan.

    Since I was a child, my parents welcomed many international students into our home and I had many opportunities to interact with them. My mother is a translator, and I have always seen her guiding foreigners around Japan, so it was natural for me to start doing the same.

    I am good at guiding people to popular places such as Shibuya, Harajuku, Shinjuku, and Asakusa, as well as photogenic spots in the Tokyo metropolitan area. Since I was a child, I’ve watched anime like Pokémon and played Nintendo games, and I still buy around 100 manga comic books a month. I love shopping in Akihabara! I currently live in Urayasu City, Chiba, so close that I can see fireworks from Disneyland from my house every night.

    Please feel free to ask me anything!

    Jul 10, 2026
    Brooke_J
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo History Modernized!
    This tour was a wonderful experience.…

    Jun 19, 2026
    Catherine_S
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience!
    We had a wonderful time with Sam, who took our…

    Jun 7, 2026
    Elena_Q
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fun visit to Tokyo!
    Wonderful customized tour of Tokyo with Sam. She…

    May 12, 2026
    Leonard B
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Awesome experience with a very knowledgeable friendly guide.
    We had an…

  • Kyoto: Kifune Shrine & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto: Kifune Shrine & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ Hotel Resol Kyoto Shijo Muromachi
    • 9:35-10:15 @ Kifune Shrine
    • 11:05-11:35 @ Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • 11:45-12:10 @ Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • 12:35-13:30 @ Nijo Castle
    • 14:10-14:40 @ Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 15:00 Dismissal @ Near Kawaramachi Rokkaku Intersection

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kifune, Arashiyama, Nijo Castle, and Fushimi Inari The guests were a group visiting from the Middle East. Some of the guests had been to Japan around five times in total, while the others were visiting Japan for the first time. At Kifune Shrine, the plan was to be dropped off near the main hall and then call the taxi waiting at the inner shrine to come pick us up after the visit. However, there was no mobile phone signal at all, so while the guests explored Yui-no-yashiro, I walked to the taxi waiting area myself to call the taxi—an unexpected turn of events. One of the guests was fond of horse racing and asked about the connection between Kifune Shrine and horses. When I explained that Kifune Shrine is said to be the birthplace of ema votive plaques, two of the guests dedicated ema. At Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, the main attraction was the bamboo grove behind the temple. At Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, the guests each took photos of the rakan statues as they liked. The guests had all watched the TV drama series "Shogun," and listened with great interest to the explanation of Nijo Castle. As we were running short on time, I gave a general explanation of Fushimi Inari in the car, and limited the walk to passing through the Senbon Torii up to the Okusha. At the guests' request, I dropped them off at an intersection near Kawaramachi Rokkaku and we parted ways.

    Hi, thank you very much for choosing the JGA tour!

    My name is Kazuhiro Yoshida, please call me “Kaz”.

    I am an English-speaking National Licensed Tour Guide in Japan, and have been guiding mainly in Kyoto and other Kansai areas since April 2023. I have guided over 1,000 tours in total so far, and I am on my way to becoming one of the best English-speaking tour guides in Japan.

    I have a great passion to show people from all over the world, the deep histories and cultures of Japan, the country I truly love.
    I am focused to take you out on a tour that will become one of the best highlights of your entire trip.

    I am glad to have an opportunity to be your guide, and I hope that we can explore many hidden gems of Japan together!

    May 19, 2026
    498stephenq
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    An enjoyable visit
    Really enjoyed our visit with Kaz. Friendly, informative, and…

    Apr 11, 2026
    V5131MFjodieh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kyoto morning tour with Kaz
    Kaz (Kazuhiro) guided my family in historic…

    Oct 14, 2025
    Scenic61154406959
    Great Historical Perspective
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoshida was excellent, he had a great knowledge of…

    Sep 29, 2025
    Jea L
    Excellent Tour of Kyoto with Kaz
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kaz was an excellent tour…

  • Tokyo Instagram Spots Customized Tour

    Tokyo Instagram Spots Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 13:10 Meet up @Hoshinoya Tokyo
    • 2. 13:20 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 13:55 Stay @Meiji Jingu
    • 4. 15:05 Stay @Takeshita Street
    • 5. 15:40 Stay @Cat Café MOFF, Takeshita Street
    • 6. 16:30 Travel: Subway
    • 7. 16:45 Stay @Shinjuku Street, Omoide Yokocho
    • 8. 17:30 Travel: Subway
    • 9. 17:45 Stay @Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 10. 18:05 Stay @MEGA Don Quijote Shibuya Main Store
    • 11. 18:45 Disband @Shibuya Scramble Square

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Shopping Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Harajuku, Shinjuku, and Shibuya The guests arrived at the lobby a little later than expected, but the hotel staff had confirmed that they were staying there, so I was able to wait without much concern. The itinerary ended up centering on shopping. On Takeshita Street we also visited a cat cafe, which made our stay there a bit longer. In Shinjuku, I had included a visit to the observation deck at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building as an option, but since time seemed tight, I guided them to Shibuya a little earlier and they enjoyed about 30 minutes of shopping at MEGA Don Quijote. As I had heard that they had a reservation for SHIBUYA SKY at 19:00, I took them near the elevator a little early and we parted ways there.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOtemachi Station~Meiji-jingumae Station210JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae Station~Shinjuku-sanchome Station180JPY
    Section 3SubwayShinjuku Station~Shibuya Station180JPY
    Total570JPY

    Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
    I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
    I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
    One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
    Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
    I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

    Jul 21, 2026
    G848SWmaribelm
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
    The tour experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Cezary P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour of Tokyo!
    Sam, was outstanding! Showed…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Michael_C
    Tokyo tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a wonderful guide -…

    Jun 18, 2026
    David_W
    Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Fish Market Tour
    Great tour. Got to see…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Six Senses Kyoto

    Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Six Senses Kyoto

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet @ Six Senses Kyoto
    • 9:55 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 10:40 Walk: Sannenzaka ~ Yasaka Pagoda
    • 11:40 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 12:20 Hirano Shrine
    • 12:45 Lunch
    • 14:05 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 15:30 Six Senses Kyoto

    Title: What's a Private Family-Friendly Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America. Some of the group had visited Japan before, but many years ago, while the others were visiting Japan for the first time, so it was almost a first visit for everyone. I planned the itinerary according to their wishes and we were able to cover almost everything as scheduled. Some of the guests were a little shy and quiet at first, but when I spoke with them, I was able to hear positive impressions such as "Kinkaku-ji was wonderful" and "Next time I'd like to walk all the way around the Inari mountain trail." Unfortunately we were not in time for the cherry blossoms to bloom, which was a shame, but everyone gave comments saying they would love to come back again.

    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!

    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…

  • Osaka in 1 Day from Kobe by Private Car

    Osaka in 1 Day from Kobe by Private Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet at Hotel, depart by chartered car ➡ Return to the hotel once ➡ Nunobiki Herb Garden Ropeway ➡ Sorakuen Garden ➡ Royal Host near Sorakuen Garden ➡ Hotel ➡ Maiko Marine Promenade at Akashi Kaikyo Bridge ➡ Disband at Hotel (18:00)

    Title: What Is a Private Kobe Sightseeing Tour Like When Plans Change? A Licensed Guide's Report After departing for sightseeing in Osaka, while in the car, the guests explained that they had arrived at the Port of Kobe by cruise ship that morning, would be staying at their hotel tonight, would travel to Tokyo the next day, and would fly home on a 9:00 morning flight the day after, so they asked for help sending their luggage to their hotel in Tokyo after the tour. These days, courier deliveries do not always arrive the next day. Realizing this was urgent, we quickly returned to the hotel and arranged for the luggage to arrive at the Tokyo hotel the following day. In addition, the Shinkansen tickets were issued for departure from Shin-Osaka rather than Shin-Kobe, so we had to reserve a taxi two hours in advance, which delayed our restart by an hour. One of the guests could walk only about five minutes even with a cane and needed constant support. Judging that places like Osaka Castle would not be feasible, I discussed the situation with the group and changed the plan to sightseeing in Kobe, choosing the destinations above, which required relatively little walking. We were saved by clear weather, and I believe the guests were satisfied. When I took one of the guests, who is fond of engineering, to the Maiko Marine Promenade at the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, they were very pleased.

    Hello! I’m Emi (meaning “smile” or “laugh” in Japanese) , born, raised, and living in Osaka for more than half a century. I’ve been working as a government-licensed tour guide since 2018 after early retirement from a company. My favorite things are hiking, cooking, eating, laughing, learning different cultures, jazz, playing the chromatic harmonica, etc.
    I’ll provide you with a few suggested itineraries first, but of course I’ll be happy to provide you with a flexible itinerary according to your preferences and requests and to help you enjoy your stay in Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kobe, etc. I can also offer a tour visiting not only popular destinations but also hidden or less-crowded places.
    I’m looking forward to meeting and guiding you!!

    Jul 17, 2026
    TROY_R
    Viator review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    This was a perfect tour…
    This was a perfect tour of…

    Sep 18, 2025
    L9831WKjenniferb
    4 hour Kyoto tour with English speaking guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely afternoon with English…

    Aug 15, 2025
    SuperGC68
    Great value
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a two day 6hr tour with our guide…

    Jul 4, 2025
    Inspire64445626178
    Delightful day with Emi
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a delightful day with our guide…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:00 Tour starts at your hotel
    • 2. 09:30 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 3. 10:30 Ryoan-ji Temple
    • 4. 11:30 Nijo Castle
    • 5. 13:30 Lunch (Tempura Endo)
    • 6. 15:00 Tour ends at the same time as lunch

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji, Ryoan-ji, and Nijo Castle The tour in March was blessed with clear skies, and the group gathered at their accommodation at 9:00 a.m. as scheduled, starting with an introduction of the guide and driver. We reviewed the itinerary that had been confirmed in advance and explained that we could respond flexibly according to the circumstances of the day, and then began the tour. The guests were a group visiting from North America, and it was the first visit to Japan for some of them. During the tour, I introduced Japan's geography and the formation of the country, the 47 prefectures, the prime minister system and the imperial system, and the national anthem "Kimigayo," while also touching on the differences from North America. The conversation developed from topics about North America to the MLB Tokyo Series, and I learned that everyone was a baseball fan, so the tour proceeded in a friendly atmosphere throughout. Sightseeing started at Kinkaku-ji, where I explained the background of Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu and the Muromachi period. Next, at Ryoan-ji, which they had requested, I introduced features such as the rock garden, the tsukubai (water basin), and the wabisuke camellia. At Nijo Castle, we visited the Higashi-Ote Gate, the Kara-mon Gate, and the Ninomaru Palace, and I explained the establishment of the Tokugawa shogunate and its cultural background. As they had been watching "SHOGUN," they were especially interested in the topics related to the Edo period. For lunch, I guided them to a restaurant that the guests had arranged themselves, and during the meal they asked many questions about Japanese culture and food, listening especially eagerly about tempura ingredients. What was particularly memorable was that one of the guests had not previously had the opportunity to learn about Japanese history and culture, and was very pleased, saying, "With this tour I was finally able to understand Japan deeply." At the end of the tour, they gave me the kind words, "Come to visit next time," and I saw them off with a smile, successfully concluding the tour.

    Hello! I’m Don, a Kyoto native with 20 years of experience in Vancouver’s travel industry. Now back in Japan, I work as a tour guide interpreter, sharing my love for Kyoto and the Kansai region with visitors from around the world. I use visual aids and storytelling to make each experience both engaging and informative, and I’m always exploring new places to deepen my local knowledge.

    In Kyoto, I often guide guests through iconic sites like Nijo Castle, Fushimi Inari Shrine, the Bamboo Forest in Arashiyama, and Tenryu-ji Temple. We may also visit Nara Park and Todai-ji Temple in nearby Nara. In Osaka, popular stops include Osaka Castle, the vibrant streets of Dotonbori, and the historic Tsutenkaku Tower. For those interested in Japanese pop culture, I can introduce you to Maid Cafes, the Manga Museum, Crane Game Centers, the Pokémon Center, and karaoke spots.

    I also offer a taste of local life by taking guests to a variety of dining experiences — from high-end wagyu restaurants to casual izakayas and ramen shops. If you’re interested, I can accompany male clients to traditional onsen or sento baths and, in the evenings, to piano bars and other nightlife venues.

    Outside of work, I value time with my family. I have a wonderful wife and two daughters. One of them is currently studying international relations at a university in Tokyo, while the other is a high school student here in Kyoto. Family life is very important to me, and I believe that warmth and connection are key, not only in family but also in travel.

    Whether you’re here to see the famous sights or to experience the everyday life of Kansai, I’d be honoured to be your guide. Let’s make unforgettable memories together!

    Mar 30, 2025
    Cruiser537584
    Much Deeper Understanding of Japan
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Our guide, Takeshi…

    Mar 30, 2025
    sallybV2617DS
    Kyoto Temples and Shrines
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    We had the best…

    Mar 23, 2025
    jefferyo2025
    Amazing and Informative 6hr Kyoto tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Don Tanaka did an amazing job…

    Dec 26, 2024
    allisonj994
    Highly recommend!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wow, our guide, Don Tanaka was absolutely incredible. He knows…

  • Tokyo: Micro Pig Cafe & Tokyo National Museum

    Tokyo: Micro Pig Cafe & Tokyo National Museum

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet in front of the Asakusa Culture and Tourism Information Center
    • 9:15 Sensoji Temple grounds: Nakamise Shopping Street (shopping), Main Hall, Asakusa Shrine ~ Yogodo ~ shopping on the West Approach
    • 12:30 Lunch
    • Return to Nakamise Shopping Street again for shopping
    • 13:30-14:15 Micro Pig Cafe
    • Move to Ueno by taxi.
    • 15:00 Ueno Park: weeping cherry blossoms and Kanhizakura cherry blossoms at the Hirokoji-side entrance ~ 15:20 Ueno Great Buddha ~ 15:40 Gojo Tenjin Shrine ~
    • 16:00-17:00 Tokyo National Museum
    • Ueno to Shinjuku on the Yamanote Line
    • Disband at the Shinjuku station front, where the guests are staying.

    What Is a Private Full-Day Walking Tour of Asakusa and Ueno in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Since the designated meeting point was Senso-ji Temple, I had sent a photo of the building model inside the cultural center beforehand to specify the location. However, it turned out by the day before that, in connection with a historical TV drama, the model had been moved to a different floor. I changed the meeting point to outside the cultural center and sent a photo of my outfit for the day to serve as a direct visual marker. There was no trouble meeting up. As I was guiding just the one person, we explored Asakusa at a leisurely pace. I showed them "Sukeroku," a shop in Nakamise selling traditional Edo-era good-luck charms. They liked it very much and purchased several items. After the main hall of Senso-ji Temple, we went to Asakusa Shrine. Looking at the three portable shrines (mikoshi) inside, I explained about festivals, Shinto, and Buddhism. They bought souvenirs at a Japanese accessory shop. We had a meal at a ramen restaurant on the west approach. We visited the Jizo hall inside Denbo-in. We shopped again at "Sukeroku." We enjoyed a micro pig cafe. We took a taxi to Ueno Park. We took photos of the weeping cherry blossoms and the kanhizakura (cold cherry blossoms) at the entrance. We saw the Great Buddha of Ueno. I guided them through the Tokyo National Museum for about an hour. At the fountain plaza, we sampled Japanese sweets from the festival stalls that were being held. Afterward, on the train accompanying them toward their accommodation in Shinjuku, I gave advice about places to visit the next day and beyond. I said goodbye to them on the platform at Shinjuku Station. The guest loved photography and had been very much looking forward to the cherry blossom scenery, so we spent a long time on photos. They were very satisfied and gave me kind compliments.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainUeno~Shinjuku210JPY
    Total210JPY

    Hello, Bonjour, Buongiorno!

    I’m Kei, Keisuke YAMAMOTO, japanese freelance Government-licensed guide and interpreter in French and in English, speaking Italian as well. Having accompanied guests to all over Japan by now with whole 47 prefectures, all year round. 11 years and over 1500 days of experience as a professional guide since 2015, after 24 years of work at French Tourist Board in Tokyo in charge of promotion and marketing.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Je suis Kei, Keisuke YAMAMOTO, guide-interprète indépendant japonais, agréé par le gouvernement en langues française et anglaise, parlant également italien. Ayant accompagné des clients dans tout le Japon avec se 47 départements, toute l’année. 11 ans et plus de 1500 jours d’expérience en tant que guide professionel depuis 2015, après 24 ans de travail à l’Office de Tourisme Français à Tokyo en charge de la promotion et du marketing.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Sono Kei, Keisuke YAMAMOTO, un guida-interprete indipendente giappone e approvato dal governo per le lingue francese e inglese, parlo italiano anche. Avo accompagno i clienti in tutto il Giappone, con sue 47 province, tutto l’anno. 10 anni e piu di 1500 journi di esperienza come guida professionista dal 2015, dopo 24 anni di lavoro presso l’Ufficio del Turismo francese a Tokyo come responsabile della promozione e del marketing.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Having lived mostly in Kawasaki city attached to Tokyo in the West, I have a good knowledge and profound experience of Tokyo and its surrounding areas such as Mount Fuji, Hakone and Kamakura or Nikko.
    A history lover and food lover, qualified as JSA Wine Expert, I’d like to help you choosing good restaurants and good drinks including Sake.
    Let’s go together for a delightful discovery in Japan.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Ayant vécu principalement dans la ville de Kawasaki rattachée à Tokyo à l’Ouest, j’ai une bonne connaissance et une profonde expérience de Tokyo et de ses environs comme le Mont Fuji, Hakone et Kamakura ou Nikko.
    Passionné d’histoire et de gastronomie, diplômé JSA Wine Expert, j’aimerais vous aider à choisir de bons restaurants et de bonnes boissons dont le Saké.
    Partons ensemble pour une délicieuse découverte du Japon.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Avendo vissuto principalmente nella città di Kawasaki, vicina a Tokyo, ho una buona conoscenza e una profonda esperienza di Tokyo e dei suoi dintorni, come il Monte Fuji, Hakone e Kamakura o Nikko.
    Appassionato di storia e gastronomia, laureato Wine Expert presso la JSA, vorrei aiutarvi a scegliere buoni ristoranti e buoni bevande, tra cui il sakè.
    Partiamo insieme per una deliziosa scoperta del Giappone.

    Jun 5, 2025
    Jenan_A
    Lovely experience but expensive
    Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    What a lovely…

  • Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up @Hotel Hiroshima Ekimae
    • 2. 10:15 @Shukkeien Garden
    • 3. 10:55 @Peace Memorial Museum @Peace Park
    • 4. 13:00 Lunch @OKOSTA Hiroshima Station
    • 5. 15:10 @Itsukushima Shrine, Omotesando
    • 6. 18:00 Disband @Hiroshima Castle

    What Is a Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Except at the Peace Memorial Park, the guests spent the day joking around and full of humor. They shared various stories in a calm manner, from troubles that had occurred during past stays in Japan to, in the end, a very heavy and life-changing incident that had happened in the past. Although the guests said they were fine and did not mention anything, I sensed they might be quite tired around Itsukushima Shrine toward the end, so we stopped at a cafe and did not visit Daisho-in. They were impressed that we were able to get around entirely using the JR Pass. At Okosta, although some okonomiyaki was left uneaten, the guests seemed to enjoy themselves while making those around them laugh.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKenritsu Bijutsukan-mae~Genbaku Dome-mae240JPY
    Section 2BusHeiwa Kinen Shiryokan-mae~Hiroshima Station240JPY
    Section 3TrainHiroshima Station~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 4FerryMiyajimaguchi~Miyajima200JPY
    Section 5FerryMiyajima~Miyajimaguchi200JPY
    Section 6TrainMiyajimaguchi~Hiroshima Station420JPY
    Total1,720JPY

    Hi, I’m Kahori, a nationally licensed tour guide, and delighted to show people around this area. For the past almost 10 years, I have mainly guided foreign medical professionals around Hiroshima City and Miyajima, gaining a deep understanding of the effects of radiation and the support for A-bomb survivors.
    Hiroshima is a city of rivers and the sea. Along the rivers Cherry trees line, and the calm Seto Inland Sea, dotted with islands, creates a stunning landscape. Also, the sea has many islands called “art islands” which have fantastic arts relating to the art festival “Setouchi Triennale”. In addition to our two World Heritage Sites, this area is rich in attractive resources. I hope many of you will come and experience this fascinating land. Personally, I am very passionate about modern art and enjoy sports like stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) on our rivers.
    I look forward to meeting you, interacting with you, and also, learning from you!

    Oct 6, 2025
    DJ C
    We visited the atomic bomb museum, Hiroshima castle, a beautiful garden, and shrines and Torrey Gate.
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima /…

    Sep 23, 2025
    lorrainel669
    Awesome Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    The tour was fantastic. It covered everything…

    Jul 26, 2025
    T
    Tracy_P
    Outstanding Tour of Hiroshima with Kahori…
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our tour of…

    Jun 28, 2025
    Fernando A
    We knew the best of Hiroshima in 8 hrs
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed…