Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Kenninji temple

    Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Kenninji temple

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Hotel Kyoto Premier Sanjo Kamogawa
    • 09:30 Nijo Castle (1300) by subway
    • 11:00 Sanjusangendo (600) by subway and Keihan line
    • 　 Gion by Keihan line
    • 　　 Lunch (Seimei Gion branch）
    • Hanamikoji by walking
    • 13:00 Kenninji temple (800) by walking
    • Yasaka-no-to by walking
    • Ninenzaka by walking
    • Yasaka jinja by walking
    • Pontocho by walking
    • 15:00 Hotel Kyoto Premier Sanjo Kamogawa
    • End of the tour

    What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a visitor from Oceania who runs a ranch. We met at the hotel, and since part of the group preferred to rest at the hotel, I set out on the tour with the guest one-on-one. At first I was told there might be limited walking ability, so I received suggestions for relatively flat destinations and planned with plenty of time to spare. After Nijo Castle, we took a coffee break at a bakery cafe. The guest had a sturdy build and had no trouble walking at all. By the end of the day, we had walked about 20,000 steps. Since it was just the two of us, we were able to talk about many small details, which made it quite enjoyable. I believe the guest was able to enjoy a tour with a slightly different flavor than usual.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto City Hall～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 2TrainNijojo-mae～Sanjo Keihan220JPY
    Section 3TrainSanjo～Shichijo170JPY
    Section 4TrainShichijo～Gion-Shijo170JPY
    Total780JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Guide to Kinkaku-ji & Shinkyogoku

    Kyoto in One Day: Guide to Kinkaku-ji & Shinkyogoku

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:15 Meet at Kyoto Station
    • 11:15 Guide to Kinkaku-ji
    • 12:00 Guide to Ryoan-ji
    • 13:50 Lunch at Saga-Arashiyama @ "Tenryu Ramen"
    • 15:30 Kyoto Station
    • 16:00 Shinkyogoku
    • 16:30 Disband @ Nishiki Market

    Title: What Is a Rainy-Day Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from North America visiting Kyoto. They were calm and easy to guide. Unfortunately, light rain fell from the morning and it was a chilly day, with even a few snow flurries in Arashiyama. After touring temples including Kinkaku-ji and Ryoan-ji, they asked to have lunch once we reached the Randen tram, so I guided them to a ramen restaurant in Arashiyama. After lunch, we walked from the Hozugawa River area to the bamboo grove, then moved from the bamboo grove to Nonomiya Shrine, which I introduced. The original plan was to go from the bamboo grove to Fushimi Inari Shrine, but the guests requested a visit to Nishiki Market, so we headed toward Shinkyogoku. In Shinkyogoku, I pointed out a place offering a "ninja experience" for one of the guests, as well as Takashimaya where they could enjoy Nintendo products, and as this reached our closing time, I parted ways with the guests at Nishiki Market.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto Station～Enmachi Station190JPY
    Section 2BusNishinokyo-Enmachi Station～Kinkakuji-michi Station230JPY
    Section 3TrainRanden Ryoanji Station～Randen Arashiyama Station250JPY
    Section 4TrainSaga-Arashiyama Station～Kyoto Station240JPY
    Section 5SubwayKyoto Station～Shijo Station220JPY
    Total1,130JPY

    Tour Report by Toshi

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

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

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

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

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

  • 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 Mimaru Hatchobori (2 min from Hibiya Line Hatchobori Station)　Meet up
    • 0920 Asakusa　Nakamise　Sensoji Temple　Asakusa Shrine
    • 1100 Ueno　Photo shoot at the Daikanzakura cherry blossoms at the Park Hirokoji Exit
    • 1130 Nippori　Yanaka Ginza Street　Lunch at a soba restaurant　Yomise Street　Nezu Shrine
    • 1310 Nijubashimae　Marunouchi　Gyoko Street　Tatsumi Yagura
    • 1420 Harajuku　Explanation at the First Torii Gate of Meiji Jingu (no entry due to time constraints)　Takeshita Street
    • 1455 Shibuya　Scramble Crossing　Hachiko Statue　Guide to Parco　Hands
    • 1520 Disband at the stationery section on the 5th floor of Hands

    What Is a Private Winter Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Yanaka, and Meiji Shrine The guests were a group visiting from North America. They had arrived at Narita Airport the previous night and checked into their accommodation late. As it was their first visit to Japan, they were unfamiliar with things and came out on the wrong side at Tokyo Station, eventually finding their accommodation by taxi. They planned to stay in Tokyo for about three days, attend a gathering the next day, and had no plans for the day after other than TeamLab. In the morning, while I was on my way to the hotel, I received a message: "With the thunder and snow, wouldn't today's tour be difficult? Could we either cancel for a refund or reschedule?" Since I had already arrived at Hatchobori, I decided to first meet them and then think about how we could make it work. As expected, Asakusa was in near-blizzard conditions, which was challenging, but on the plus side there were fewer tourists, so we finished without any trouble. We were then heading to the Yanaka-Nezu-Sendagi area, but since we couldn't see any cherry blossoms at all at Sensoji Temple, I made time in Ueno and showed them the Daikanzakura cherry blossoms along Hirokoji. As they had expressed a wish to visit various places, I had originally intended to head to Meiji Shrine after the Yanaka area, but we made a stop at the Imperial Palace along the way. At Meiji Shrine, I limited the visit to an explanation at the First Torii Gate. Since one of the guests was very keen on Japanese stationery, I took them to the stationery section on the fifth floor of Hands in Shibuya before we parted ways. By this time, the sky had turned blue.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassHatchobori~Ueno～Asakusa700JPY
    Section 2Free PassAsakusa～Ueno0JPY
    Section 3TrainUeno～Nippori146JPY
    Section 4Free PassNezu～Nijubashimae0JPY
    Section 5Free PassNijubashimae～Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 6TrainHarajuku～Shibuya146JPY
    Total992JPY

    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.

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    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…

  • Tokyo: Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba & Top Deck

    Tokyo: Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba & Top Deck

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba
    • 9:20 Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, Outer Market, Namiyoke Shrine
    • 10:30 Tokyo National Museum Entrance
    • 11:30 Hotel
    • 13:00 Tokyo Tower Food Court
    • 14:15 Top Deck Tour
    • 16:00 Dismissal @ Hotel

    What Happens If a Guest Loses a Wallet During a Private Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from Oceania. Since it was cold with snow and rain from the morning, we changed plans from Hamarikyu and went to the Tokyo National Museum instead, but one of the guests realized their wallet was missing. As it was not in the car either, we had to return to the hotel. In the car we canceled all the credit cards, and at the hotel room they contacted their bank and other parties, while I waited in the lobby with the rest of the group. It was unclear whether the wallet had been pickpocketed at Tsukiji or simply dropped. We skipped Asakusa and went to Tokyo Tower, where we had a reservation, and they had a meal at the food court, after which we waited until the Top Deck Tour finished. Fortunately, the weather cleared up just in time. Since the situation was really unfortunate, I bought a strap featuring cherry blossoms and Tokyo Tower at a souvenir shop and gave it to them. They were very composed and pleasant, and we parted with smiles at the end, but it reaffirmed that caution is needed at Tsukiji. Just to be safe, I recommended that they report the loss at a nearby police box.

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

    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

    • 9:00 Meet at Hotel New Otani. Head to the Imperial Palace. Enter the East Gardens through the Otemon Gate, view from the Honmaru to the Ninomaru, and exit through the Hirakawamon Gate. Take the subway from Takebashi to Asakusa at 11:00. Stroll from the Kaminarimon Gate through Nakamise to the main hall, then Asakusa Shrine, the Nishi-Sando Shopping Street, Hoppy Street, Rock Street, Denboin Street, and Orange Street. Have a meal at Zanmai on Kaminarimon-dori at 1:30. Take the Ginza Line and Yamanote Line to Harajuku. Enter through the First Torii, pass through the Second Torii along the South Approach, and head to the main shrine. On the way back, return to Harajuku via the back streets. As it's time, with everyone's consent, introduce the highlights at the entrance of Harajuku Takeshita Street and disband at 3:00.

    What Is a Private History and Culture Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and Asakusa The guests were visitors from North America. One of the guests works for a Japanese company and comes to Japan occasionally, but this was their first leisure trip, while it was the first visit to Japan for the other. As they wished to learn about history and culture, I explained the Imperial Palace (from the Warring States period through the Edo period), Meiji Shrine (the Meiji era), and Asakusa (the everyday life of ordinary people from old times through the Edo period to the present). One of the guests follows a specific diet, and we confirmed sushi was possible. They requested salt instead of soy sauce, but had brought a sample of tamari soy sauce to use. Using photographs and other materials, I also explained the life of the current Emperor, which they listened to attentively. They were very friendly guests, and the tour proceeded in an enjoyable atmosphere throughout. In Asakusa, at a chopstick shop, I explained that China, Korea, and Japan all use chopsticks but with different shapes and materials, and the reasons behind this. I also explained cultural differences such as the distinction between the maneki-neko raising its right paw versus its left paw, and how the gesture for calling someone over differs from other countries — pointing the palm downward is considered friendly, while pointing it upward can come across as somewhat arrogant.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNagatacho～Otemachi180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTakebashi～Asakusa210JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa～Shibuya260JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya～Harajuku150JPY
    Total800JPY

    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!

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    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…

  • Kyoto: Nara Park & Yakushiji Temple

    Kyoto: Nara Park & Yakushiji Temple

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10: 00 Meet up @The Thousand Kyoto
    • 11:20 @Nara Park→Deer crackers
    • 11: 30 @Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 12:10 @Mount Wakakusa
    • 12:20 @Todaiji Temple
    • 13:20 Lunch @Isuien Garden "Sanshutei"
    • 14:50 @Yakushiji Temple
    • 15: 40 @Toshodaiji Temple
    • 17:15 Dismiss @In front of Kyoto Station

    Can You Do a Private Day Trip from Kyoto to Nara? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. We met at 10:00, and I told them, "If we hurry now, we can catch the 10:07 rapid train from Kyoto Station." We hurried a little and made it comfortably in time. Starting with that, the guests enjoyed the entire itinerary. At Todaiji Temple, one of the guests challenged the passage through the square hole in the pillar and succeeded, which delighted the group. For lunch, they enjoyed warm nyumen (somen in hot broth) at the "Sanshutei" teahouse inside Isuien Garden, which gently warmed their chilled bodies. Afterward, within the visiting hours, they saw two World Heritage sites, Yakushiji Temple and Toshodaiji Temple, and were very satisfied with those as well. They mentioned that today, after returning to Kyoto, they would move on to their hotel in Osaka. It was a wonderful group to guide.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Nara720JPY
    Section 2BusJR Nara Station～Kasuga Taisha Shrine250JPY
    Section 3TrainKintetsu Nara～Kintetsu Nishinokyo300JPY
    Section 4TrainKintetsu Nishinokyo～Kintetsu Kyoto760JPY
    Total2,030JPY

    Tour Report by Shoko

    I am an experienced guide, who live in Osaka. I have been a Government-Licensed Guide in English since 2018. I have already guided a lot of tourists overseas in Kansai Area, that is, in the vicinity of my prefecture, Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, and Himeji. I am especially good at guiding in Kansai Area with sufficient knowledge of history, culture and transportation. I have guided people ranging from a small group of one or two to a group of 20-50 people in a big bus, that is, a coach. I like delicious food, because Osaka is a city of Kuidaorre, which means that people in Osaka love to eat and never spend too much money on food. Therefore, as an Osakan, I will do my best to explore restaurants which serve most delicious foods in wherever I take to my guests.

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    Mar 31, 2026
    Michael A
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Perfectly customized tour
    Shoko San did an amazing job planning a…

    Mar 29, 2026
    judyl582
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Shoko was great
    Shoko was an excellent guide. From the moment she…

    Oct 8, 2025
    441gayh
    World Heritage Kyoto places with the best guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely perfect! SHOKO was…

    Oct 3, 2025
    Judi H
    Introduction to Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful tour with Shoko.
    She…

  • Nara in One Day: Kintetsu-Nara Station & Kofukuji Temple

    Nara in One Day: Kintetsu-Nara Station & Kofukuji Temple

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:45 Kintetsu-Nara Station (Start of Tour)　
    • 　　(taxi)
    • 10:00-30 Isuien Garden (entrance 1200 yen)
    • 　　→ Yoshikien Garden (entrance free)　 (walk 5 minutes)
    • 10:40-50 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate)　 (walk 5 minutes)
    • 11:00-30 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall (walk 5 minutes)
    • 11:40 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower　 (walk 5 minutes)
    • 11:50-12:30 Todaiji's Nigatsudo Hall
    • 　　　 (light lunch at Emado Chaya)　 (walk 10 minutes)
    • 12:40 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill: former katana sword manufacturer's shop
    • (walk 5 minutes)
    • 12:50-13:20 Kasuga-taisha Shrine
    • (walk 15 minutes)
    • 13:50-14:30 Kofukuji Temple
    • (walk 5 minutes)
    • 14:40-15:50 Nara-machi (Old Merchant Quarters): sake tasting etc. (End of Tour)

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of Nara Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Even though Omizutori, the ceremony that is supposed to herald the arrival of spring, had ended, it was as cold as midwinter, and the deep mountains of Nara were covered in snow. The guests were visiting from North America. They kept their hoods up almost the whole time because of the cold. They were of small build and reserved in their manner and emotional expression. At times I could hardly tell which of us looked more Japanese. My calf muscle strain had not fully healed, so I had to keep a slow pace, but I am deeply grateful to the guests, who matched my pace without ever showing any displeasure. That said, I simply cannot understand why the facilities managed by Nara City in Naramachi are all closed on Wednesdays. Even the Nigiwai no Ie and the Koshi no Ie, whose operation is entrusted to volunteers, are closed. Nara City's tourism division really needs to reconsider this!

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

    Tour Report by Junichi

    Hello! Thank you for choosing Nara! I bet you’ll love Nara. I specialize in Nara because Nara is the unique place where in one day you can cover the history and religions of Japan from the ancient times to the post war era while enjoying rambling in the UNESCO World Heritage park, having communication with lovely deer, surrounded with the beautiful nature.
    I grew up in Nara, went university in Kyoto, enjoyed teaching at high schools and a university in Osaka. The three former capitals of Japan are home to me.
    After retiring from teaching I began guiding so that I can meet various people from various corners of the world with a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Each time I guide, I find it hugely rewarding because I learn a lot from my guests sharing the history, culture and all that I know about Nara, Kyoto and Osaka.
    I used to be a marathon runner, mountain climber and skier though I am not much of them anymore.
    What I especially recommend is to stay in Nara a couple of days and enjoy communicating with friendly deer while visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nara in early morning, temples and shrines at night are well worth experiencing.

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    May 16, 2026
    I3520JTcristinat
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nara with family
    Excellent tour with Junichi!!! Perfect English speaking guide and…

    May 3, 2026
    Maria_J
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyable day in Nara
    We spent 6 hours in Nara with Junichi…

    Apr 11, 2026
    64sandig
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Osaka DEP. with Licensed Guide
    ????? Absolutely Outstanding ? Junichi Made Our Nara Day…

    Mar 30, 2026
    dpadillachavez
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
    Great day at Nara!
    Best tour on Nara, Junichi…

  • Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 12:30 Meet up @ Shinkansen Transfer Gate (Himeji Station)
    • 2. 12:40 @ Castle View
    • 3. 13:05 @ Himeji Castle
    • 4. 14:55 @ Koko-en Garden
    • 5. 15:15 Tea ceremony @ Soju-an (Koko-en Garden)
    • 6. 15:55 @ Egret Himeji Rooftop
    • 7. 16:15 Disband @ Piole Himeji

    What Is a Private Himeji Castle Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from Europe. We met at the Shinkansen transfer gate at Himeji Station, then visited Castle View, Himeji Castle, Koko-en Garden (including a tea ceremony seating), and the rooftop of Egret Himeji, before returning to Piole Himeji. It was an especially cold day, and slippers were not provided inside Himeji Castle, so one of the guests felt the cold and kept moving ahead quickly. For this reason, I explained things while proceeding fairly quickly, and part of the group waited outside the main keep. After that, we took photos and I gave various explanations along the way as we arrived at Koko-en Garden. At Koko-en there was an ikebana display, and the guests also enjoyed matcha at the tea ceremony seating, and they were in very good spirits. The guests said they would return to Osaka today and head to Hiroshima the next day. At Piole Himeji, just before Himeji Station, one of the guests wished to do some shopping, so we ended the tour there. The guests told me the tour was "perfect." I believe it turned out to be a truly worthwhile tour.

    Click here for more details: Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    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…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

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

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 11:00 Miyajima
    • 14:00 Lunch
    • 16:00 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 18:00 Hiroshima Station – Dismissal

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Miyajima and Hiroshima Peace Park Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. I paid careful attention to lunch arrangements to accommodate the group's needs. We visited Itsukushima Shrine and learned the proper way to worship, experienced the Kaidan-meguri (underground passage) at Daisho-in Temple, strolled along Maple Road, and observed a moment of silent prayer at the Peace Park. The weather was sunny throughout the day. As it was a larger group, I guided them holding the Hiroshima Carp flag, which I had not done in a while. Although it is only the beginning of the spring season, the increase in inbound visitors is noticeably greater than last year. Thinking ahead to the cherry blossom season, I need to prepare for situations I had not anticipated. In particular, the lines for the ladies' restrooms may become a real concern.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajima420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi Station～Nishi-Hiroshima Station330JPY
    Section 3BusNishi-Hiroshima Station～Hiroshima Peace Park240JPY
    Section 4BusAtomic Bomb Dome-mae～Hiroshima Station240JPY
    Total1,230JPY

    Tour Report by Yuji

    Originally, I’m a cycling guide doing cycling tours all over Japan.
    But, already done Hiroshima & Miyajima tour more than 400 times.
    I traveled many countries in my younger days. I traveled Europe, US, China, India, US, Mexico, Peru Australia, NZ, and so on.
    I decided to use this experience to become a guide.
    I’m afraid but no tipping required, because cycling guides are not allowed to have tipping in my association. And you do not need to pay for my lunch, because my lunch is prepared by our group.
    Please do not hesitate to ask me anything, I’ll change the plan according to your requests.
    Thank you for your understanding and please stay connected.

    Request Booking

    Jun 1, 2026
    John_W
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    A top day with a top guide
    My wife…

    May 27, 2026
    Annabelle_C
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima in a day
    Yuji was a great communicator…

    May 12, 2026
    satishp656
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    HIROSHIMA HALF DAY TOUR
    Yuji is a warm, knowledgeble…

    May 10, 2026
    StephanieB6076
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Incredible Experience
    We had an incredible experience visiting Hiroshima…

  • Ishikawa in Half a Day: Samurai Residence Nomura Family

    Ishikawa in Half a Day: Samurai Residence Nomura Family

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:20 Meet at Kanazawa Station
    • 11:35 Samurai Residence Nomura Family
    • 12:25 Omicho Market Lunch
    • 13:35 Kenrokuen Garden
    • 14:20 Kanazawa Castle Park
    • 14:30 Higashi Chaya District
    • 15:00 Disband at Kanazawa Station

    What Is a Private Kanazawa Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kenrokuen, Higashi Chaya, and Local Seafood I guided guests visiting from Europe around Kanazawa. Since walking was difficult for one of the guests, they used a wheelchair and a cane, and we traveled around the city by taxi. At the samurai residence, the guests were delighted by the beautiful garden and the raised tatami room. For lunch, we enjoyed a seafood rice bowl at a restaurant in the Omicho area, which was delicious and greatly appreciated by the guests. At Kenrokuen Garden, we made a quick loop through the flat areas, and the guests enjoyed the camellias and the ponds. They also seemed to appreciate the traditional architecture of Kanazawa Castle. At the Higashi Chaya District, I guided them along the traditional streets. The guests appeared to have studied the Japanese language, and both were interested in traditional things and thoroughly enjoyed the seafood rice bowl at lunch.

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

    Tour Report by Sho

    I majored in civil engineering at a college and am interested in historical infrastructures. I have also guided foreign people around Ishikawa Prefecture, Toyama Prefecture, Gifu Prefecture, and Fukui Prefecture as an international activity of an English circle. I was a volunteer interpreter at the training camp for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in 2021.

    Hokuriku region has a lot of sightseeing spots as follows, beautiful landscapes like Kenrokuen Garden and Tateyama, tasty food like traditional Kaga dishes and fresh seafood from Toyama Bay, traditional crafts like Kaga Yuzen dyeing, Takaoka copperware, and Inami woodcarving. I introduce these spots and historical infra tourism such as Kurobe dam and industrial tourism.

    I also work as a translator. I translated the Japanese firefly squid tourism pamphlet into English in 2020.

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/shoten-sasaki/

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    May 26, 2026
    C4211GUbrittanym
    Tripadvisor review: Toyama 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Great time in Toyama!
    Nice tour, guide was very nice and…

    May 14, 2026
    190kariml
    Great tour in Kanazawa with Sho
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful time…

    Jul 24, 2025
    Wander60650705961
    Delightful experience um Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We had the pleasure of taking a…

    Jul 2, 2025
    nuttineeyav
    Walking day in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    The old town was very nice to…