Category: Uncategorized

  • 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

    • Hotel 9:00 －－ Meiji Shrine 9:40 ーー Nijubashi Bridge 11:20 ーー Asakusa 13:40 －－ Dismissal 14:40

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and Asakusa The guests were visitors from North America who were visiting Japan for the first time. One of them spoke to me often and made the journey very enjoyable, while the other showed a strong interest in history, religion, and culture. Both listened attentively to my explanations. Unfortunately we were not able to enjoy the cherry blossoms, but they cheerfully said they would be traveling to Osaka and Kyoto later in the week and would enjoy the blossoms there, so there was no problem. They seemed to especially like Meiji Shrine and the Imperial Palace. At Meiji Shrine, they bought a protective charm for a friend who was ill. In Asakusa, our visit overlapped with the time of the Kinryu-no-mai (Golden Dragon Dance), so it was even more crowded than usual. After filming a video of the Golden Dragon Dance, they said they could not go into that crowd and preferred to enjoy shopping and a café here before walking around the temple grounds, so we returned to the Kaminarimon gate, where I gave a full explanation of its history and architecture before we said goodbye. They told me that everything they had heard was very interesting and truly informative.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShibuya～Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 3SubwayOtemachi～Asakusa180JPY
    Total570JPY

    Tour Report by Sally

    Hello, I’m Hizuru.
    I have a passion for sharing my knowledge and love for Japan with visitors from all over the world.
    After teaching English and Japanese to Elementary school and Junior high school students for about 15
    years, I got the National License of Guide and Interpreter in 2014 which allowed me to officially guide
    tourists around Japan.
    I have guided many tourists around Tokyo and its vicinities, helping them to discover the hidden gems of the
    city and learn about its rich history and traditions.
    Whether you’re interested in visiting historical landmarks, trying delicious Japanese cuisine, or experiencing
    the vibrant pop culture scene, I can tailor a tour suit your interests.
    My experience as a teacher greatly helped me in this role as I was able to efficiently communicate and engage
    with people from different backgrounds and cultures.
    I am dedicated to providing an unforgettable and insightful experience for all my guests.
    I look forward to welcoming you to in and around Tokyo and sharing the wonders of Japan with you.

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    Oct 14, 2025
    vanessajK6787GS
    Great day out and about in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hizuru was an absolute delight.…

    May 23, 2025
    Inspire25413313092
    Tokyo walking tour 2025
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sally did a great job putting together a…

    May 3, 2025
    davidfZ3537PI
    Great tour with Hizuru!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great private tour with Hizuru! Prior to the…

    Apr 17, 2025
    Sharon_F
    Sampling of everything in one day!
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great sampling of lots of different…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel meet-up　9:30 Yasaka Pagoda　9:45 Kiyomizu Temple　10:35 Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka　11:10 Yasaka Shrine 11:30 Gion　12:10 Pontocho　12:30 Nishiki Market (lunch)
    • 13:30 Nijo Castle　　15:05 Drop off at hotel and tour ends

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Oceania. Both were able to walk without any problem at all. However, the destinations had been selected by an agency, so they could not really be described as the guests' own requests. We headed to Kiyomizu-dera early in the morning, so it was not very crowded on the way there, but it was quite crowded on the way back. One of the guests took a lot of photos. In the Higashiyama area, Ishibei-koji was quiet, but the rest was crowded. The guests enjoyed the streetscapes around Gion and Pontocho. They had lunch at Nishiki Market, and one of the guests ate vegetable-filled gyoza. The reason the large chrysanthemum crest above the entrance to the Ninomaru of Nijo Castle was missing was due to a typhoon last year. When I asked a staff member, they said it was unclear whether it would be reattached. The photo was taken near Kiyomizu-dera.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto City Hall～Higashiyama220JPY
    Section 2BusHigashiyama Sanjo～Kiyomizu-michi230JPY
    Section 3SubwayShijo～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijojo-mae～Kyoto City Hall220JPY
    Total890JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

    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.

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    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…

  • Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

    Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ Designated address: 93-9 Nishikujō Ikenouchichō, Minami Ward, Kyoto
    • 9:20-10:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 10:45-11:35 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 12:20-13:05 Nijo Castle
    • 13:20-13:35 Kitano Tenmangu
    • 13:45-14:25 Kinkaku-ji
    • 14:50-15:20 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 16:00 Dismiss @ Designated address: 93-9 Nishikujō Ikenouchichō, Minami Ward, Kyoto

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, and Arashiyama The guests were a group visiting from North America. One of the guests spoke both Japanese and English fluently, having left Japan and lived overseas. We started after reconfirming the five places they had told me in advance that they wanted to visit. At Fushimi Inari Taisha, each of the guests tried the Omokaru-ishi (lifting stone). They also purchased three torii-shaped ema plaques at the shrine office. At Kiyomizu-dera, some of the guests lined up to drink the water at Otowa Waterfall, and I photographed the moment they drank the water. After exploring Kiyomizu-dera, they enjoyed some street food at the shops along the approach. Since we were running behind schedule, we skipped the Ninomaru Garden at Nijo Castle. We stopped briefly at Kitano Tenmangu to see the plum blossoms in full bloom, then headed to Kinkaku-ji. While guiding the group through Nonomiya Shrine at the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, some of the guests offered prayers for blessings related to children. After strolling through the bamboo grove, I saw the guests off to their accommodation and we parted ways. The extension fee was paid for both the driver and the guide. The morning was a little chilly, but the weather was fine throughout the day, making it a perfect day for sightseeing.

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

    Tour Report by Kaz

    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!

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    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…

  • Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle & Namba Yasaka Shrine

    Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle & Namba Yasaka Shrine

    Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting point: Hotel (Hotel)
    • 10:40 Sightseeing ①: Osaka Castle
    • 12:00 Sightseeing ②: Strolling around Dotonbori / Lunch
    • 13:45 Sightseeing ③: Shinsekai
    • 14:30 Sightseeing ④: Namba Yasaka Shrine
    • 15:30 Dismissal: Namba

    Private Osaka Day Tour Report: A Licensed Guide's Itinerary Covering Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, Shinsekai, and Namba Yasaka Shrine The guests on this occasion were visitors from North America. Communication and itinerary discussions beforehand were handled through one of the guests. They had done considerable research on Osaka, in which they had a deep personal interest, and in addition to the must-see Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, and Shinsekai, they specifically requested "Namba Yasaka Shrine" (whose building shaped like a blue ogre's face is very popular). On the day of the tour, the temperature, which had been warming up recently, suddenly dropped, and the weather felt like a return to winter. I met the guests at the Hotel slightly earlier than the appointed time and confirmed the itinerary. Looking at one guest's attire—a thin polo shirt and a light spring jacket—I asked, "It's around 5 to 6 degrees Celsius outside, and even at the highest it will only reach around 10 degrees, so it's a cold day. Will you be alright in those clothes?" The reply was, "This is fine, no problem." Although I remained a little concerned, we were able to set off smoothly. As I explained things at each destination and answered various questions, I once again strongly felt the influence of the television film "Shogun," created by a Japanese actor and director who won an Academy Award last year. One of the guests had previously visited Japan briefly for work some years ago, and it was memorable how they nodded at each of my explanations and frequently exclaimed "Cool!" During the first half of the itinerary, the sun came out and the cold eased, but in the latter half it occasionally began to rain, and at the guests' request we finished about 30 minutes earlier than planned. Wishing them happiness in their future, I said goodbye.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHommachi～Tanimachi 4-chome190JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Nippombashi190JPY
    Section 3SubwayNamba～Ebisucho190JPY
    Section 4TrainShin-Imamiya～Namba180JPY
    Total750JPY

    Tour Report by Nori

    Hi, everyone! I’m Norifumi Kamon, a government registered guide interpreter. Please call me “Nori”, or “Kamon-san”.
    Let me introdece myself. I was born on April 17th in 1952 in Miyazaki prefecture in Kyushu island. I used to be an English teacher of Osaka Prefectural high school. When I retired from a teacher ten years ago, I decided to get a professional guide license. I wanted to play a role of the bridge between Japanese people and the people from all over the world as a second life of mine. After two years efforts, I finally got the guide license. Since then, I have guided several handreds of foreign people mainly in Kyoto and Nara for about five years except Corona Pandemic period. Almost all the tourists were deeply impressed by the beauty of nature, traditoin, culture, and art of Japan. I can surely help you enjoy and be satisfied with the sightseeing in Japan. And I’m looking forward to seeing you soon.

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    Apr 9, 2026
    Ron_W
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We saw so much in the…
    We saw so much in the…

    Mar 24, 2026
    zackn719
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Knowledgeable guide and a great tour
    We did our private tour with…

    Oct 20, 2025
    66speech
    Highlights of Kyoto.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience with Nori. Nori exceeded our expectations with…

    Oct 16, 2025
    Michael_H
    Thoroughly enjoyed the…
    Viator review: Osaka Off the Beaten Path 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Thoroughly enjoyed the day out…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tochomae Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Tochomae Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting point: Mimaru Tokyo Shinjuku West
    • 9:10 Depart Tochomae Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • Arrive Nishi-Shinjuku Station/Shinjuku Station
    • Shinjuku Station Travel Concierge
    • 9:30 Depart Shinjuku Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 10:15 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • 11:00 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 11:15 Arrive Nippori Station
    • Yanesen Yanaka Ginza
    • 11:40 Depart Sendagi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Arrive Nezu Station
    • Yanesen 　Nezu Shrine
    • 12:30 Depart Nezu Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • Hibiya Lunch: Hibiya Chanter
    • 13:30 Depart Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 14:00 Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Takeshita Street
    • Cat Street
    • 15:00 Depart Harajuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 15:10 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 15:40 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 16:00 Arrive Shinjuku Station
    • 16:00 Dismissal: Shinjuku Station

    Can You Do a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Covering Asakusa, Yanaka, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were two families visiting Japan from North America. This trip was a two-week stay in Japan. The first week was spent in Tokyo, and the latter half was planned for Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara. The previous evening, they arrived at Narita Airport via a connecting flight. They took the Narita Express to Shinjuku. The previous night, after strolling around near their hotel, they had dinner at the hotel. They planned to visit teamLab the next day. Everyone had already purchased SUICA cards. The tour took place under clear skies, in wonderfully pleasant weather. First, since they very much wanted to reserve the shinkansen to Kyoto in advance, we went to the Ekitabi Concierge at Shinjuku Station. After this, we took the subway to Asakusa. As always, it was extremely crowded. I explained about "Sensoji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo," "what a five-story pagoda is," "what Buddhists are," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." There were questions such as "Do all Japanese people believe in Buddhism?" and "What kind of teaching is Shinto?" They drew an omikuji fortune and purchased an omamori charm (praying for a university acceptance). We strolled through the Nakamise shopping street and they bought a "beckoning cat" as a souvenir. Along the way, they also bought and sampled "strawberry candy" and "melon bread." From here, we moved to the Yanaka-Nezu-Sendagi area, which they had requested. I explained about "the history of Yanaka Ginza." They said, "It's pleasant to feel the atmosphere of old Tokyo." At Nezu Shrine, they photographed "the carp in the pond." They also passed through the torii gates and took commemorative photos. (They mentioned, "We also plan to visit Fushimi Inari in Kyoto.") From here, we went to Hibiya Chanter for lunch. Since some of the guests had specific dietary needs, the two families entered separate restaurants. We took a short break. After lunch, we moved to Harajuku. First, we went to Meiji Shrine. I explained about "what Shinto is," "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto," "the history of Edo and the Meiji Restoration," "Emperor Meiji," and "the Japanese imperial family." They said, "It's wonderful that there is such a green park in the center of the city." We also strolled through Takeshita Street and Cat Street. They said, "We love vintage clothing. We'll come back again tomorrow." We moved to Shibuya. I explained about "the history of Shibuya." We walked across the "Scramble Square" and took commemorative photos in front of the Hachiko statue. They also commented, "Japanese people are all so polite," "There's no litter on the streets," "The public restrooms in Japan are clean and pleasant," and "There are no homeless people to be seen." They also commented, "The inside of the subway is clean and quiet. It's completely different from the subway back home." I saw them off to Shinjuku Station and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTochomae Station～Nishi-Shinjuku Station178JPY
    Section 2SubwayShinjuku Station～Asakusa Station252JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa Station～Ueno Station178JPY
    Section 4TrainUeno Station～Nippori Station146JPY
    Section 5SubwaySendagi Station～Nezu Station178JPY
    Section 6SubwayNezu Station～Hibiya Station178JPY
    Section 7SubwayHibiya Station～Meiji-jingumae Station178JPY
    Section 8TrainHarajuku Station～Shibuya Station146JPY
    Section 9TrainShibuya Station～Shinjuku Station167JPY
    Total1,601JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Koryuji Temple & Kyoto Imperial Palace

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Koryuji Temple & Kyoto Imperial Palace

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Meet (Hotel Mitsui Kyoto)
    • 9:00-9:40 Travel (Tozai Line; Nijojo-mae → Uzumasa Tenjingawa, Keifuku Electric Railway; Randen Tenjingawa → Uzumasa Koryuji)
    • 9:40-10:20 Visit Koryuji Temple
    • 10:20-11:20 Travel (Keifuku Electric Railway; Uzumasa Koryuji → Randen Tenjingawa, Tozai Line; Uzumasa Tenjingawa → Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae,
    • 　　　　　　　　City Bus; Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae → Shimogamo Shrine)
    • 11:20-12:00 Visit Shimogamo Shrine
    • 12:00-12:15 Travel (Taxi; Shimogamo Shrine → Kyoto Imperial Palace)
    • 12:15-13:00 Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 13:00 Farewell at Kyoto Imperial Palace

    What Is a Private Kyoto Tour of Quiet Temples and Shrines Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, on their first trip to Japan, and both said they loved Japan very much. They had requested places that were not crowded, so I took them to Koryu-ji Temple, Shimogamo Shrine, and the Kyoto Imperial Palace. All of these had few crowds, allowing them to view the sites at a relaxed pace. They both said that the fifty Buddhist statues displayed in the treasure hall of Koryu-ji Temple were their favorite. The weather was fine, and the tour proceeded pleasantly, leaving the guests looking very satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNijojo-mae～Uzumasa Tenjingawa260JPY
    Section 2TrainRanden Tenjingawa～Uzumasa Koryuji250JPY
    Section 3TrainUzumasa Koryuji～Randen Tenjingawa250JPY
    Section 4TrainUzumasa Tenjingawa～Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae260JPY
    Section 5BusKyoto Shiyakusho-mae～Shimogamo Shrine230JPY
    Section 6OtherShimogamo Shrine～Kyoto Imperial Palace0JPY
    Total1,250JPY

    Tour Report by Michi

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

    Jul 13, 2026
    Beth_D
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Tour and Guide
    Michi was an excellent tour guide! He…

  • Wakayama in Half a Day: Wakayama Castle

    Wakayama in Half a Day: Wakayama Castle

    Mt. Koya Sacred Sites Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • (Since it was not feasible time-wise to sign up for the Koyasan tour, it became a Wakayama City sightseeing tour that is not listed in the JGA.) That turned out to be the right choice.
    • 9:00 Move to Wakayama Station by the free shuttle bus provided by Wakayama City
    • 9:30-9:40 Move to Wakayama Castle (taxi)
    • 9:40-11:20 Wakayama Castle sightseeing, Momijidani Garden / Matcha experience at Kosho-an / Rooftop of Wakayama Castle Hall
    • 11:30-12:10 Wakayama ramen lunch
    • 12:10-12:35 Return to the cruise ship by taxi
    • 12:35-12:45 Look at kimonos and other items at the shops around the cruise ship
    • 12:45 Disband

    What Is a Private Cruise Port Tour of Wakayama Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Ahead of this tour, I visited the tourism division of Wakayama City. Because the guests' ship was making its first-ever call at Wakayama City, I was told that no shuttle bus would run from the port to the city center this time (until now they had mostly relied on buses arranged by the cruise company). I complained that, with no subway like Osaka and having to rely on taxis, or walk a long way from the port to wait for infrequent buses, tourism in Wakayama City would only decline. When I arrived at the port today, however, they had hurriedly arranged a shuttle bus. (Was it because of me?) It turned out that one of the guests could barely walk. I explained that if we could just get to Wakayama Station, we could use the local bus for 230 yen and also catch a taxi from the station, so we took the shuttle bus to Wakayama Station. Along the way I gave a brief introduction to the city. (I felt a bit like a tour conductor.) Since the guests were fine with getting around by taxi to make things easier, we used taxis after that. Reaching the main keep of Wakayama Castle requires climbing slopes and stone steps, so we walked a little through the Momijidani Garden in front of it and took photos. We had matcha at Kosho-an within the garden. Since guests could sit on chairs, it was comfortable. I had prepared kaishi paper decorated with camellia flowers, and since the guests liked it, I gave it to them. My knowledge of tea ceremony comes only from a little I studied while preparing to become a National Guide-Interpreter, but this was the first time I was able to make use of it. The best view of the entire Wakayama Castle is from the rooftop of the nearby Wakayama Castle Hall, so we took the elevator up to take photos and sat down to rest, then went to the nearest shop to eat ramen. Since the guests could not eat much, we ordered two bowls and got extra bowls to share. They enjoyed the flavor of Wakayama ramen, which had once won a grand prix. I was worried about whether we could catch a taxi for the return, but just as a taxi stopped in front of the city hall and dropped off passengers, we caught it and returned to the cruise ship. Even with limited walking distance, I did everything I could. I think we were fortunate in many ways. In the end I also suggested a course going around Wakaura by taxi before returning, but the guests seemed to have had their fill and went directly back to Wakayama Port. Many volunteers were out for the arrival of this cruise ship, and I saw many familiar faces. Wakayama City has many kind people and beautiful nature, and it lacks the crowds of Osaka, but its transportation access is too poor. I keenly felt why this is the only place in the Kinki region that has not become affected by overtourism.

    Click here for more details: Mt. Koya Sacred Sites Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    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.

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    Jun 23, 2026
    Shelley_E
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    Duncan_R
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    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
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  • Hiroshima: Hiroshima Peace Park & War Memorial Facility

    Hiroshima: Hiroshima Peace Park & War Memorial Facility

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 11:30 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 12:30 Atomic Bomb Dome
    • 13:30 War Memorial Facility
    • 15:00 Dismiss at Atomic Bomb Dome

    Title: What Is a Private 4-Hour Tour of Hiroshima Peace Park Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Tour Report Date: March 2025 Places visited: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Listening to an A-bomb survivor's testimony Guests: The guests Weather: Cloudy with occasional sun Experiences: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park : Atomic Bomb Dome : Memorial facilities for the war dead Details: The guests were visitors from North America. In advance communication, the guests expressed a wish to visit all the main sights, including the Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima Castle, and Shukkeien Garden. Since we had a limited time of four hours with an 11:00 departure, I recommended that the guests have a light lunch on the Shinkansen. As I felt it might be too much to view the intense exhibits at the museum right away, I showed a general information file on the bus beforehand. As expected, four hours passed at the Peace Memorial Park alone, and since the guests did not appear to want an extension, I sent all the other information along with maps via a messaging app.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHiroshima Peace Park～Hiroshima Peace Park240JPY
    Total240JPY

    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.

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    Jun 1, 2026
    John_W
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
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    May 27, 2026
    Annabelle_C
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    Hiroshima in a day
    Yuji was a great communicator…

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    satishp656
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    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Hiroo Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Hiroo Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: Hotel
    • 9:10 Depart Hiroo Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 9:45 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • 10:45 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 11:00 Arrive Ueno Station
    • Ueno Tokyo National Museum
    • 12:00 Depart Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 12:30 Arrive Shimbashi Station
    • Shimbashi Lunch: Hidakaya
    • 13:30 Depart Shimbashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 14:00 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Shibuya PARCO (POP MART)
    • 15:10 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • Ebisu Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 15:30 Arrive Hiroo Station
    • 15:30 Dismissal: Hiroo Station

    Title: What's a Rainy-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like After a Cruise to Yokohama? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, though originally from Asia before relocating. The main purpose of this trip was a cruise from Oceania that ended at the port of Yokohama. They had arrived at the port of Yokohama the previous day and traveled by connecting trains from Yokohama to their Hotel. They had strolled around Roppongi the night before. They were scheduled to return home from Narita Airport the following day. The tour took place in cold, continuous rain. We started at Asakusa. Despite the rain, it was extremely crowded. I explained the history of Senso-ji Temple and the transition from Edo to Tokyo, what a five-story pagoda is, what Buddhism is, and the differences between Buddhism and Shinto. There were questions such as "Do all Japanese people believe in Buddhism?" and "What kind of teaching is Shinto?" We strolled along the Nakamise shopping street, where they bought T-shirts as souvenirs for their grandchildren. Because of the rain, I changed the plan and, instead of the Imperial Palace, we visited the Tokyo National Museum. This too was very crowded with visitors, perhaps because of the rain. I explained Japanese history, what samurai were, and the tea ceremony. There were questions such as "Are there no more samurai?" and "What is the situation with the Japanese Imperial Family?" They said they wanted to have ramen for lunch, so we went to a casual ramen restaurant near Shimbashi. They commented, "Since it's cold, ramen is very welcome. The price is reasonable too — a good choice." We then moved to Shibuya, where I explained the history of Shibuya. We walked across the Shibuya Scramble Crossing and took commemorative photos in front of the Hachiko statue. They also said they wanted to buy souvenirs requested by their grandchildren, so we went to a character goods shop in a Shibuya department building. They made comments such as "Japanese people are all quiet and polite," "There is no trash on the streets," "The public restrooms in Japan are clean and pleasant," and "There are no trash cans anywhere in the city." Finally, I saw them off at Hiroo Station, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHiroo Station～Asakusa Station252JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa Station～Ueno Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayUeno Station～Shimbashi Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwayShimbashi Station～Shibuya Station178JPY
    Section 5TrainShibuya Station～Ebisu Station146JPY
    Section 6SubwayEbisu Station～Hiroo Station178JPY
    Total1,110JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

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    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
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    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

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    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

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    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
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  • Tokyo in One Day: Higashi Honganji Temple & Shibuya

    Tokyo in One Day: Higashi Honganji Temple & Shibuya

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:45 Meet at Asakusa Kaminarimon → Asakusa guided tour
    • 10:45 Imperial Palace Sakuradamon Gate & Nijubashi Bridge
    • 11:40 Higashi Honganji Temple → Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:10 Lunch @ Tenchiku
    • 14:00 Visit Meiji Shrine
    • 15:30 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 16:00 Shibuya sightseeing
    • 16:30 Disband at Shibuya

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and Tsukiji I guided a friendly group visiting from North America. One of the guests had a strong interest in Japanese history, so at the Imperial Palace and Meiji Shrine I gave a somewhat detailed explanation of the period from the Edo era to the Meiji Restoration. The guest was delighted, saying they had just learned about this topic at school the previous week and could now see the actual sites in person. For lunch, the group had requested fugu (pufferfish) cuisine, so I made a reservation at a restaurant in Tsukiji, and they thoroughly enjoyed the meal. There was a small incident when one of the guests left a mobile phone in a restroom inside Shibuya Station, but just as we were heading back from the ticket gate to look for it, a passerby happened to be bringing the lost item to the lost-and-found, so it was fortunately returned. I believe this let the guests experience one of the wonderful aspects of Japan.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa～Kasumigaseki209JPY
    Section 2SubwayKasumigaseki～Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukiji～Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku～Shibuya146JPY
    Total742JPY

    Tour Report by Ken

    Hi, my name is Ken. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter in Japan.
    I’ve been living in Yokohama, west of Tokyo, for more than 20 years.
    Since 2018 I have been enjoying guiding guests from all over the globe to various attractive places in Tokyo, Yokohama, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji, and so on.
    I can also bring you unique experiences such as sake tasting, car factory, beer brewery, fish markets as well as rural town in Miyagi pref., where I was born, by riding on the Shinkansen bullet train.
    Please think I’m your friend in Japan. Tell me where you want to go, see, or experience. I can customize the tour for you.
    My hobby is walking and jogging. I made 42K runs 9 times so far but I take it easy now.
    Having worked globally in the food industry for 35 years, I love local foods of Japan and other countries.
    I’ll try my best to make your visit a memorable one.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you soon!

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    Oct 4, 2025
    Ivette_S
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    lisajayneherewini
    Happy happy happy
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Instagram Highlights Private Tour with Licensed Guide
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