Category: Uncategorized

  • Nagoya / Aichi Full-day Private Custom Tour with National

    Nagoya / Aichi Full-day Private Custom Tour with National

    Nagoya / Aichi Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. Meeting @9:20 at Nagoya Port Garden Pier, gathered 20 minutes later than scheduled due to the guest's circumstances
    • 2. Move to Nagoya Castle and tour the Honmaru Palace and the area around Nagoya Castle
    • 3. Lunch @Yabaton Kinshachi Yokocho store
    • 4. Move to Tokugawaen and tour Tokugawaen (Japanese garden) and the Tokugawa Art Museum
    • 5. Move to the Shikemichi area and tour around Shikemichi (galleries and shops renovated from old warehouses along the canal, etc.)
    • 6. Return to Nagoya Port Garden Pier and disband 15:30

    What Is a Private Nagoya Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nagoya Castle, Tokugawa Garden, and Shikemichi Although the day brought continuous light rain, the guests enjoyed visiting Nagoya Castle, Tokugawa Garden & the Tokugawa Art Museum, and the Shikemichi area. At each site, they enjoyed seasonal blossoms such as the plum flowers beginning to bloom and camellias, and at Tokugawa Garden they viewed a special exhibition of winter peonies with great interest. The guests were also delighted by the atmosphere of the Shikemichi area, where warehouses dating back to the Edo period line the canal, and they spent a relaxing time enjoying a coffee break at a canal-side café and gallery. Because the meeting was delayed by about 20 minutes due to the guests' circumstances, I adjusted the finishing time at Nagoya Port slightly later, so I believe they were able to enjoy the entire planned itinerary at a comfortable pace.

    Click here for more details: Nagoya / Aichi Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNagoyako Station～Nagoyajo Station270JPY
    Section 2SubwayKokusai Center Station～Nagoyako Station270JPY
    Total540JPY

    Tour Report by Todd

    Hello, guests of JGA tours, I’m Takao (Todd) Miura, a national licensed guide of Japan.
    I have experiences as a professional guide over 5 years. The themes in which I’m well versed include castles, Japaneses landscape gardens, museums, festivals, and traditinal Japanese arts and crafts.
    Nagoya City and Aichi Prefecture, where I live, have many attractive sites to visit. I would like to introduce you to the most popular sites and spots in this area.
    I really wish to have a very nice time with you as a guide of your tour in Nagoya and Aichi Prefecture.

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    Feb 16, 2026
    B9190RXcolleenm
    The Nagoya walking tour was great!
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Todd was the perfect…

    Oct 2, 2025
    Jeffrey_B
    Nagoya with Todd Miura
    Viator review: Nagoya / Aichi Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    A great 4 hour…

    Sep 17, 2025
    sjhppy
    Todd Was A Fabulous Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    I highly recommend Todd! He…

    Jul 22, 2025
    guelphturfgrassinstu
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    We enjoyed this tour with a knowledgeable guide. Todd shared…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1200 Meet at Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba (1 min from Yurikamome Daiba Station)
    • 1250 Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue
    • 1300 Visit Meiji Jingu Shrine, enter from the North Approach, get off in front of Sanshuden Hall, board at the First Parking Lot
    • 1420 Imperial Palace Outer Gardens, Otemon Gate, Tatsumi Yagura Tower, Gyoko-dori Avenue
    • 　　Sightseeing from the vehicle: Tokyo Station, Nihonbashi, cherry blossoms (Okanzakura) at the entrance of Ueno Park (30% in bloom)
    • 1515 Asakusa, 8F terrace of the Culture Tourist Information Center, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, get off at Kaminarimon Gate, board at Nitenmon Gate
    • 　　Sightseeing from the vehicle: Oshiage Sky Tree (only half visible due to bad weather), Ryogoku Kokugikan, Ginza 4-chome, Kabukiza Theatre, Tsukiji Outer Market, Hamarikyu, Tokyo Tower
    • 1800 Return to hotel

    Title: Can You Do a Private Car Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shibuya, Asakusa, and the Imperial Palace The guests were a group from North America who had arrived in Tokyo this morning after a two-week cruise, staying one night before departing the following evening. I went to pick them up at noon and sent a text message; they were in the middle of lunch, so we met with a slight delay. They seemed a little tired at first, but their energy picked up once we reached the Shibuya Scramble Crossing. Because of the previous night's snow (which the guests had not noticed while on board the ship), I explained that there might be some traffic disruptions and received their agreement to adjust the itinerary flexibly as needed. Since it was the last day of their trip, they had no Japanese yen on hand, and at Nakamise they bought and enjoyed a melon bread with a credit card. There was no particular shopping. I believe the guests were satisfied with the guiding. Additional note: There was a bit of a disagreement with the driver at Shibuya at the start. This was the second time working with this driver, the first being last April. The point was: "Stopping a vehicle in Shibuya is extremely difficult, so please take that into account." I asked whether we could drop off nearby and be picked up close by (in front of a convenience store on Meiji-dori; I had printed and prepared a map and explained it), but the response was: "That is also basically difficult. I explained the same thing last time. If this is repeated, we may not be able to accept dispatch requests from you in the future." For the time being, I got agreement that we would wait at the aforementioned spot and be picked up there. The driver also said, "At Meiji Shrine as well, basically we drop off at the main gate and wait at the first parking lot," but since the guests were elderly and it was cold and rainy, I explained that I wanted to have them get on and off as close as possible, and received agreement. I had intended to go around Marunouchi from the front of the Imperial Palace, but since the driver was reluctant about pickup and drop-off on Gyoko-dori, I marked the prepared map and asked to drop off at Otemon and be picked up on Gyoko-dori twenty minutes later. The result was that "it was not crowded, so I was able to stop and wait." At Senso-ji, since we finished early, with the guests' agreement I asked to head to the hotel even if it was ahead of schedule. However, the driver wanted to adjust the timing, so we ended up doing the above sightseeing from the car window. (The driver seems to be skilled at sightseeing from the vehicle.) If pickup and drop-off in the Shibuya area places this much burden on the driver, I would appreciate it if [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) could share, for tours with a vehicle, that this should be avoided. If it turns out on the day to be difficult after the itinerary has already been adjusted with the guests, it causes inconvenience. I did coordinate with the driver in advance, and until now I have been able to manage through on-the-spot discretion, but going forward I will have to reconsider.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherHotel～Hotel0JPY
    Total0JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Arashiyama & Fushimi Inari

    Kyoto in One Day: Arashiyama & Fushimi Inari

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Meet up @ Kyoto Station
    • 12:30 Arashiyama
    • 14:30 Chion-in, Maruyama Park, Nene no Michi, Ninen-zaka
    • 16:30 Fushimi Inari
    • 17:45 Disband @ Ramen Koji

    What Can You See on a One-Day Private Kyoto Tour by Bullet Train? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe, traveling by cruise through Taiwan, Korea, and Japan. They had arrived at Osaka Port from Naha this morning and were departing the next morning, so for their one day of stay they chose Kyoto and wanted to try riding the Shinkansen, taking the bullet train to Kyoto. Although there was light rain, we visited the bamboo grove in Arashiyama, then went from Gion along Nene-no-Michi and Ninenzaka, where they enjoyed coffee at a local café and purchased a woodblock print by the owner. Finally we went to Fushimi Inari, returned to Kyoto Station, and I guided them through Ramen Koji before ending the tour. It was a very enjoyable group.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 2TrainSaga-Arashiyama～Nijo200JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijo～Higashiyama260JPY
    Section 4BusHigashiyama-sanjo～Gion230JPY
    Section 5BusKiyomizu-michi～Tofukuji230JPY
    Section 6TrainTofukuji～Inari150JPY
    Section 7TrainInari～Kyoto150JPY
    Total1,460JPY

    Tour Report by Moto

    Hi, I’m Moto, your guide. I’m looking forward to seeing you soon! If you have any questions or suggestion, please feel free to let me know. One of my suggestions would be Monkey Park in Arashiyama, which is not listed, and it’s okay to be included in the tour. This is why I’m mentioning it. Only one condition is you are supposed to be fit enough to walk up the mountain about 20 minutes. Up there, you can feed the monkeys from inside the small hut. Monkeys are free, people have to get in the cage. What’s more, Monkey Park has one of the best views over the ancient capital of Japan.

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    Oct 5, 2025
    David G
    Moto was a fantastic guide in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Moto our guide was…

    Mar 29, 2025
    Helen_C
    An excellent day spent in Kyoto
    Viator review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Government-Licensed Guide
    There is so much…

    Mar 19, 2025
    Jennifer_C
    We had a wonderful tour…
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful tour guide who…

    Mar 15, 2025
    Valentina_O
    Excellent tour!
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Moto was a fantastic guide! He managed to pack our…

  • Nara Day Trip from Kyoto by Private Car

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto by Private Car

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at hotel　10:40 Todaiji Temple　11:50 Lunch (tonkatsu)　13:00 Kasuga Taisha Shrine　14:20 Naramachi (Lattice House, shopping)16:00 Depart Nara
    • 17:15 Arrive at hotel

    What Is a Private Nara Day Tour from Kyoto Like on a Rainy Day? A Licensed Guide's Report Following the previous day, I guided the group's sightseeing in Nara. Unfortunately, it rained again today, so we had to carry umbrellas throughout the walk. At Todaiji Temple, the guests were amazed by the size of the Great Buddha. For lunch we went to a tonkatsu restaurant, and although it is usually crowded, it was empty—perhaps because of the rain—and we were the first to be seated. Soon more and more tourists arrived and the place filled up, but the impact of the rain and cold seemed significant. At Kasuga Taisha Shrine, the guests enjoyed watching the deer bow to visitors. In Naramachi, we visited "Koshi no Ie," which had been closed for a long time. The interior was almost unchanged, though the restroom had been renewed. On Wednesdays, other facilities such as "Nigiwai no Ie" and the "Karakuri Omocha Kan" are closed, and many shops are also shut, so there is a bit less to see in Naramachi. After "Koshi no Ie," we walked around shopping, and some of the guests did quite a bit of shopping. One of the guests requested to return to the Hotel a little earlier, so we left Nara ahead of schedule, which was actually good for avoiding the evening congestion. We were able to return smoothly to Kyoto. The photo was taken in front of the statue of Gyoki near Kintetsu Nara Station.

    Click here for more details: Nara Day Trip from Kyoto by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherThe JUNEI HOTEL Kyoto Imperial Place West～The JUNEI HOTEL Kyoto Imperial Place West0JPY
    Total0JPY

    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…

  • Nara in One Day: Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Deer Park

    Nara in One Day: Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Deer Park

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:50 Guesthouse Nara Komachi (Start of Tour)
    • (taxi)
    • 11:05-20 Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Deer Park
    • (walk 5 minutes)
    • 11:30 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate)
    • (walk 5 minutes)
    • 11:40-12:10 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall
    • (walk 5 minutes)
    • 12:20 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • 12:30-13:00 Todaiji's Nigatsudo Hall
    • lunch at Emado-chaya?
    • (walk 5 minutes)
    • 13:20 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill:
    • former katana sword manufacturer's shop
    • 13:40-14:10 Kasuga-taisha Shrine
    • (walk 30 minutes)
    • 15:00- Nara-machi (Old Merchants' Quarters of the town): sake tasting etc.
    • (walk 15 minutes)
    • 17:05 (End of Tour) JR Nara

    Title: What Is a Private Nara Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of three visiting from North America. Despite managing a calf muscle strain with taping, I walked around all day. The guests showed great interest in Buddhism, Shinto, and history, which made guiding them truly enjoyable. I wondered why they were so engaged and receptive, and I felt I understood once I learned more about their background. There were many things the guests taught me, but if I had to pick one, it was that "Spain expelled its Jewish population in 1492, but today the descendants of those who were expelled can return to Spain and reclaim their citizenship." I found this a fascinating contrast to certain aspects of history and nationality law that we discussed. It was a group with whom I wished I could have talked much more. There have been very few tour requests for Nara, and this was my first guiding assignment in 45 days, since January. I truly hope that requests for Nara tours will increase.

    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Ueno

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Ueno

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet up @Hotel Annex
    • 10:10 Asakusa
    • 12:00 Ueno (Ueno Park, National Museum)
    • 14:30 Lunch @Rokurinsha
    • 15:50 Dismiss @Tokyo Station

    What Can You See on a Private Rainy-Day Tour of Ueno and Tokyo Station? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They were cheerful and talkative. The night before, there had been concerns about snowfall, but fortunately the trains were running normally. The guests had not yet had breakfast and had brought food purchased at a convenience store, so they enjoyed it in the hotel lobby before we set off. They enjoyed taking photos and shopping everywhere we went. We had originally planned to visit the temples and shrines in Ueno Park, but since it was rainy and cold, we changed our plans to the National Museum. Everyone seemed to have the same idea, and there was a long line at the ticket counter. At the National Museum gift shop, the guests found and purchased an English version of a manga on Japanese history. At Ueno Station, one Welcome Suica was purchased, and we had ramen. Because it was late, there was no line at Rokurinsha, which is usually crowded. Since the museum and shopping took quite a bit of time, we decided to skip the Imperial Palace, and I took them to Character Street at Tokyo Station before we parted ways. We went over the scheduled time, but we had a very enjoyable time together.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTochomae～Asakusa280JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Ueno180JPY
    Section 3TrainUeno～Tokyo170JPY
    Total630JPY

    Tour Report by Yoko

    I’m Yoko Kusumoto, a government lisenced English-speaking guide.
    I have been living in Tokyo for more than 20 years, and it’s my pleasure to show you around Tokyo. I recommend Meiji Shrine and Asakusa if you are first time in Japan. I also recommend off-the-beaton path spots like Fukagawa Fudodo and Gotokuji Temple(lucky cat temple).
    I was born and brought up in Kamakura, where the first shogun’s government was established. It will be my pleasure to introduce you my hometown as well.

    I live with my husband and one teenage son.
    I like traveling, flowers, sewing, quilting, scrapbooking, and exploring Tokyo.

    I’m looking forward to hearing from you soon.

    Request Booking

    Jun 2, 2026
    ericahT6840AD
    Awesome!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our day with Yoko was great! She took us to some…

    May 20, 2026
    CharKris17
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Walking Tour
    We did a six-hour walking tour of Tokyo with…

    May 3, 2026
    jefftK1794VZ
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fantastic day exploring Tokyo
    This was our first time visiting Tokyo and…

    Oct 23, 2025
    Y6401BOshaunam
    Knowledgable, engaging guide Yoko Kusmoto made day of Tokyo history, architecture and insights exceptional. le.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:00 Meet up @ Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
    • 2. 09:05 Travel∶Subway
    • 3. 09:40 Stay @ Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 4. 10:50 Travel∶Subway
    • 5. 11:00 Stay @ Nezu Shrine
    • 6. 11:40 Travel∶Subway
    • 7. 12:05 Stay @ Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
    • 8. 12:25 Lunch @ Aoi-Marushin
    • 9. 13:30 Stay @ Sensoji Temple
    • 10. 14:10 Travel∶Subway
    • 11. 14:30 Stay @ Akihabara
    • 12. 14:55 Travel∶Train
    • 13. 15:20 Disband @ Hotel Gracery Shinjuku

    Tour Title: What Is a Private One-Day Tour of Eastern Tokyo Like on Tokyo Marathon Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. They had not noticed my email, so there was a mix-up at the meeting point, but thanks to a messaging app we were able to meet almost on time. I arranged the destinations to focus on the eastern part of Tokyo. This day happened to be the day of the Tokyo Marathon, so I was concerned about crowds at each spot. Although the area around Shinjuku Station was congested right after the start, by the time we arrived in Asakusa most of the runners had already passed through, so we were not greatly affected. Even so, to avoid crowds at restaurants, we decided to take a meal break before visiting Sensoji Temple. Because I had planned a relaxed itinerary, we had a little extra time in the latter half, so after Asakusa I also guided them around Akihabara. We only used the JR Yamanote Line at the end, when I saw them off to their Hotel.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassShinjuku Station～Otemachi Station600JPY
    Section 2Free PassOtemachi Station～Nezu Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassNezu Station～Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassAsakusa Station～Suehirocho Station0JPY
    Section 5TrainAkihabara Station～Shinjuku Station180JPY
    Total780JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

    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.

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    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…

  • Nagoya / Aichi Full-day Private Custom Tour with National

    Nagoya / Aichi Full-day Private Custom Tour with National

    Nagoya / Aichi Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • Nagoya Port (9:00) – Nagoya Castle (12:00) – Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology (13:30) – Osu Kannon & Arcade (14:30) – Nagoya Port (15:00

    Title: What Is a Private Nagoya Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nagoya Castle and the Toyota Museum Body: The guests were a group visiting from North America. They especially enjoyed Nagoya Castle, pointing out that although its exterior differs from Western castles, the structure is quite similar—such as the way the rooms gradually change from lower-status rooms to higher-status ones as you move up. I learned a great deal from what they shared. Although it was raining, they took plenty of time to explore the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology. It is a spacious facility, and there were staff members who provided explanations in English, which they listened to with great interest. They were also curious about the relationship between Japan and North America, including topics such as the arrival of Perry and the end of Japan's national isolation. It was a bright and cheerful group, and I had a wonderful time.

    Click here for more details: Nagoya / Aichi Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusEntrance～Tokai-dori210JPY
    Section 2SubwayTokai-dori～Nagoya Port210JPY
    Section 3SubwayNagoya Port～Nagoya Castle270JPY
    Section 4SubwayNagoya Castle～Kameshima240JPY
    Section 5SubwayKameshima～Osu Kannon240JPY
    Section 6SubwayKamimaezu～Nagoya Port270JPY
    Section 7TrainNagoya Port～Tokai-dori210JPY
    Section 8BusTokai-dori～Entrance210JPY
    Total1,860JPY

    Tour Report by Sammy

    Hey there, I’m Masami Maeda, and I’m all about guiding you through some incredible adventures! Teaching English at high school was cool and all, but I craved something more exciting. That’s when I discovered my love for guiding.
    Traveling is my jam. I’ve spent years soaking up the vibes in the US and the UK. In fact, I even did a stint at Warwick University, where I got totally hooked on Drama and Theatre Education. It was like stepping into a whole new world!
    When I’m not busy showing folks around, you’ll find me doing all sorts of things. Ballet classes? Yep, I’m there. And I’m a huge fan of Japanese rakugo – both watching and performing. It’s a blast!
    My style of guiding? Think of it as a mix of storytelling and cultural immersion. I want you to feel like you’re really part of the places we visit, not just an onlooker. Let’s dive deep into the heart of each destination and uncover the hidden gems together.
    So, if you’re up for an adventure filled with laughter, learning, and maybe a few surprises along the way, then I’m your guide! Let’s make some unforgettable memories together!

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    Oct 2, 2025
    Phong_N
    Great time in Nagoya
    Viator review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    We were lucky to have Sammy…

    Nov 25, 2024
    155arlenen
    Excellent Tour – Very Professional
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Sammy was an excellent guide,…

    Nov 12, 2024
    CHERYL_D
    Fun day trip around Nagoya City
    Viator review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Sammy was very knowledgable…

    Apr 3, 2024
    dianefik
    A great tour guide in Nagoya
    Viator review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Sammy was our tour…

  • Nara Day Trip from Osaka by Private Car

    Nara Day Trip from Osaka by Private Car

    Nara Day Trip from Osaka by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at the hotel　➡　Arrive at Kasuga Taisha Shrine by private car, walk from Kasuga Taisha Shrine to Nigatsu-do Hall to Todaiji Temple　➡　Higashimuki Shopping Street by private car (lunch)　➡　Walk from Harushika Imanishi Seibei Shoten to Naramachi Koshi-no-ie　➡　To the hotel by private car, disband upon arrival (15:30)

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Nara Like on a Rainy Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Asia, and there were no concerns about walking. In the rain, we spent about three hours walking slowly from Kasuga Taisha Shrine to Todaiji Temple. They fed crackers to the deer many times. When they spotted a fawn, they even went back to buy more crackers for it. Since it was very cold in the rain, they were delighted by the free warm tea at the rest area of Nigatsudo Hall. After lunch (a set of udon and a rice bowl), they enjoyed a sake tasting at a sake brewery.

    Click here for more details: Nara Day Trip from Osaka by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Emi

    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!!

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Shinjuku Gyoen & Guide ends

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Shinjuku Gyoen & Guide ends

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    March, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00　Meet at the hotel
    • 9:35　Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 10:45　Shinjuku Godzilla Head, 3D advertisement
    • 11:30　Meiji Shrine
    • 12:45　Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 13:45　Ueno Zoo
    • 14:00　Guide ends

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Cherry Blossoms, Meiji Shrine, and Ueno Zoo Body: [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private tour of Tokyo for guests visiting from North America. The guests keep a flower garden at home and hoped to see cherry blossoms and plum blossoms, and they were delighted to see them just as they had hoped. At the Godzilla Head, the guests mentioned having only seen the very first Godzilla film (1954), and found it wonderfully nostalgic. When they saw the 3D advertisement of a cat appearing to leap out at Shinjuku East Exit, they laughed heartily and exclaimed how fun it was. The guests enjoyed the atmosphere of Meiji Shrine, took a commemorative photo by the camphor trees, and purchased a lucky charm. They were also thrilled at the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, and were deeply moved to see the pandas, giraffes, flamingos, and other animals at Ueno Zoo. The itinerary had been carefully planned in advance, and it was a pleasure to guide such enthusiastic guests throughout the day.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAkasaka-mitsuke～Shinjuku-gyoemmae180JPY
    Section 2SubwayShinjuku-gyoemmae～Shinjuku180JPY
    Section 3TrainShinjuku～Harajuku150JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku～Shibuya150JPY
    Section 5SubwayShibuya～Ueno210JPY
    Total870JPY

    Tour Report by Shuji

    My name is Shuji, meaning “Excellent Manager” in English. I was born in Hiroshima 1952. I have 2 children and 3 grandchildren.
    After graduating Kyoto Univ. I joined Mitsubishi-UFJ Bank, Osaka Branch where I met my wife who was a master of Englsih, so I started studying English.
    The bank allowed me to go to Columbia Graduate business school in New York and got MBA Degree there. I worked in London and Manchester Branch.
    During staying in U.K., I was introduced by BBC and Financial Times News Paper about my achievement there. I was selected as a personal assistant and interpreter for the President of the Bank.
    I made many business trips with him to overseas countries. I experienced as an interpreter for meeting late Henry Kissinger and the President of Citi. Corp.
    I changed the job to ORIX corporation, there I was promoted to a Board Member. When the company had acquired Dutch company, I was a member as an accountant to check the Dutch company’s statements of accounts.
    My hobbies are cooking, singing a song, playing tennis & golf, enjoy seeing arts especially opera & musical, travel. I am also busy with taking care of grandchildren. I passed Government Licensed Guide Exam. in 2016. After I retired in 2017, I started guide job as a part timer. So far, I accomplished guide job more than 500 times.
    My area coverage is from Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji to Kyoto, Nara, Oaka, Hiroshima. I am also able to guide Tea Ceremony, Maiko/Geisha, Sushi Making, Calligraphy, Sumo, Samurai, etc. I can speak excellent English. My knowledge is very wide and deep about not only sightseeing places but Japanese History, Culture, Religion, Daily Life. I know many foreign countries and people. I love talking with all kinds of people including babies with interesting humor.
    By the way, I look young for my age of 74.

    Request Booking

    Jul 16, 2026
    salomons666
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto fun
    Amazing with our guide Shuji very kind and acknowledge

    Jul 15, 2026
    P9099TXkennethr
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    A great day
    A great day in the Company of mr. Shuji.

    Jun 28, 2026
    A
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    AmyfromPlano
    Shuji is the best! Once we booked this tour, he reached…

    Jun 22, 2026
    yeseniag981
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Osaka Tour
    Our tour guide Shuji was amazing. He was…