Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo: Hokokuji Temple & Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

    Tokyo: Hokokuji Temple & Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

    Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo by Car with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 Meet @ Prince Park Tower Tokyo
    • 09:15 Hokokuji Temple
    • 10:30 Kotoku-in Great Buddha
    • 11:15 Hasedera Temple
    • 12:15 Lunch @ Asaba Honten
    • 13:15 Wakamiya-oji (Dankazura) Entrance ~ Komachi Street
    • 14:00 Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
    • 16:00 Dismissal @ Prince Park Tower Tokyo

    What Is a Private Kamakura Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of three from different regions of North America and Europe who had, until the day before, been attending an international conference in Sapporo. Having heard about this from the person who made the booking, I asked, "Is that why you signed up for a Kamakura tour connected to the theme of compassion?" and it turned out to be a happy coincidence. Throughout the tour, and especially at the Eleven-Headed Kannon of Hasedera, I explained the compassionate spirit of the Kannon Bodhisattva — who stays close to those who suffer and listens to their pain — while keeping in mind the ideas of end-of-life care and palliative care expressed in "Cure sometimes, Relieve often, Comfort always." At the start of the tour, one of the guests was quite talkative, which made it a little difficult to explain things, but as we continued, they grew calmer and began listening attentively to what I had to say. In the end, I believe it became a tour that satisfied the guests, including Hasedera, Hokokuji Temple, the Great Buddha, and shopping along Komachi Street.

    Click here for more details: Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Hideki

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Sanjusangen-do Temple

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Sanjusangen-do Temple

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Moot(@Hilton Garden Inn Kyoto Shijo Karasuma)
    • 9:00-9:45 Travel (City Bus; Gojo → Gojozaka)
    • 9:45-11:40 Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple (including Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka, Yasaka Pagoda, and Koshin-do)
    • 11:40-12:05 Travel (City Bus; Kiyomizu-michi → Higashiyama Shichijo)
    • 12:05-13:00 Visit Sanjusangen-do Temple
    • 13:00 Tour Ends　　　We parted ways with the guests in front of Sanjusangen-do.

    Title: What's a 4-Hour Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kiyomizu-dera, Sannen-zaka, and Sanjusangen-do The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. Originally, the plan was to take the group to Kiyomizu-dera Temple (including Yasaka Pagoda and Koshin-do), Sanjusangen-do, and Fushimi Inari Taisha, but Kiyomizu-dera and Ninen-zaka took more time than expected. After finishing the visit to Sanjusangen-do, we had reached exactly the 4-hour tour duration, so we concluded the tour there. At Kiyomizu-dera, the group was determined to lift Benkei's iron staff (90 kg), so they waited in line for 30 minutes to take on the challenge. At Ninen-zaka, they also waited 20 minutes to buy Frozen Fruit. Because of this unexpected use of time, the guests fully understood and accepted that we were unable to reach Fushimi Inari at the end, and the tour concluded. Since the guests planned to visit Fushimi Inari on their own the following day, I explained the highlight points of visiting Fushimi Inari Taisha at the end of the tour before we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusGojo (Kyoto Municipal)～Gojozaka／Kyoto Municipal Bus230JPY
    Section 2BusKiyomizu-michi／Kyoto Municipal Bus～Higashiyama Shichijo／Kyoto Municipal Bus230JPY
    Total460JPY

    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 !

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    Aug 4, 2026
    Elie_S
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Wonderful and informative walking tour with Michi
    We had a lovely…

    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.…

  • Tokyo: Tsukiji Outer Market & Shinjuku

    Tokyo: Tsukiji Outer Market & Shinjuku

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at hotel
    • 9:10 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 11:00 Imperial Palace / Nijubashi Bridge
    • 12:30 Asakusa / Senso-ji Temple
    • 14:00 Harajuku
    • 15:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 16:00 Shinjuku
    • 16:30 Tour ends at Shinjuku

    What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like Before a Japan Cruise? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. They had arrived the previous day to join a cruise around Japan starting the following day, and had already ventured out to Shibuya on their own to explore the surrounding area. Based on their prior requests, we visited the major spots in the city. First, at the Tsukiji Outer Market, they were amazed by its scale and the wide variety of foods. Although they mentioned they were not fond of seafood, they tried some dried seafood and promptly purchased some. At Namiyoke Shrine and Higashi Honganji Temple, I explained the differences between Shinto and Buddhism and the influence each has had on Japanese culture while they observed the sites firsthand. Since they were planning to visit numerous shrines and temples during their upcoming domestic cruise, they were delighted, saying it was very helpful. At the Imperial Palace, I explained the differences in history and background between the Japanese Imperial Family and the British Royal Family, and they seemed to understand well. At Asakusa and Harajuku, I tried to help them experience the contrast between past and present as two shopping streets of the same type. Finally, I took them to Shinjuku Golden Gai, where they watched a live Godzilla head performance show, and we concluded the tour here.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNational Stadium～Tsukiji Market220JPY
    Section 2TrainTsukiji～Hibiya180JPY
    Section 3TrainTokyo～Kanda (Tokyo)160JPY
    Section 4TrainKanda (Tokyo)～Asakusa180JPY
    Section 5TrainAsakusa～Omotesando260JPY
    Section 6TrainYoyogi～Shinjuku160JPY
    Total1,160JPY

    Tour Report by Atsushi

    Hello and welcome to Tokyo!

    I have been working for business with American companies for many years. I have many experiences guiding customers from around the world in Japan and taking Japanese customers to the USA and Europe.

    I now have a national license as a guiding interpreter, and I want to introduce the unique gigantic city of Tokyo and the traditional Japanese culture, which is not shown in the guidebooks, to people worldwide who are interested in it. In addition, I want to introduce various Japanese foods you can enjoy only in Japan.
    Unique experiences such as the Sumo Training Viewing and Tea Ceremony are optionally available.
    Depending on your preference and itinerary, I can guide you in Tokyo, Kamakura, and Hakone so that you can enjoy your time in Japan.

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    Aug 18, 2026
    Heather_C
    Private tour for 4 in Tokyo – highly recommend
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide…

    Aug 8, 2026
    victoriahD2588SK
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    An action packed visit to Hakone!
    Atsushi was an…

    Jul 26, 2026
    Kevin_B
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Highly recommend this tour for first time…

    Jun 22, 2026
    Ashish_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best Tour for a Short Visit
    Atsushi-san was an incredibly well-researched and…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Nishiki Market

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Nishiki Market

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10;00 ASAI Kyoto Shijo
    • 10:30-11:50 Nijo Castle
    • 12:30-13:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 14:00-14:20 Nishiki Market

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nijo Castle, Fushimi Inari, and Nishiki Market The guests were a group visiting from Europe, and it was a very enjoyable tour. At Nijo Castle, they listened attentively to my explanations, and I also introduced the garden. As it was a hot day, we took a short break at a rest area, where we spent some time cooling down, introducing Japanese games, and chatting. We then traveled to Fushimi Inari Taisha by subway and train, and along the way I introduced Japanese foods and other topics. Near the exit of Fushimi Inari Taisha, they enjoyed sake, Kobe beef, and wagyu before we headed to the shrine, where I introduced the Omokaru-ishi stones and the Nenoue-no-Matsu pine. Since it was already 1:30, we then made our way straight toward Gion-Shijo and Nishiki Market. The skewers of Kobe beef and wagyu seemed expensive from a Japanese perspective, but I was reassured to see the guests enjoying them and finding them delicious. While explaining Shijo Street, I guided them to the entrance of Nishiki Market, where the tour concluded.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGojo (Kyoto Municipal)～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijojo-mae～Sanjo Keihan220JPY
    Section 3TrainSanjo Keihan～Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Section 4TrainFushimi Inari～Gion-Shijo240JPY
    Total920JPY

    Tour Report by Harumi

    Hello, my name is Harumi, and I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter in Japan. I have been actively involved in volunteer activities for many years, sharing my passion for Japanese culture and history. As a kimono dressing instructor, I can provide hands-on kimono experiences and guide tours. Additionally, I have extensive knowledge of sumo wrestling, making my tours ideal for those interested in this fascinating sport. I am also well-versed in Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings (Jūdenken) and can introduce historical townscapes dating back to the Edo period. If you are interested, I would be happy to show you around the sake brewing process in the Nada region.

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    Sep 29, 2026
    H1282JBkarinas
    Customizable tour with Harumi-san
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing tour with Harumi…

    Sep 28, 2026
    Coastal07335209891
    Kobe Delight with Harumi
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our tour was definitely customized and our…

    Sep 27, 2026
    kakeelma
    Learning is fun with Harumi san!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    My husband and I…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Cosmopolitan580857
    We had a great time! Kyoto is a beautiful city.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0900 Hotel Kaminarimon (3 min from Metro Asakusa Station) meet up　Senso-ji Temple　Asakusa Shrine
    • 1015 Yanaka Ginza　Yomise Street　Nezu Shrine
    • 1245 Imperial Palace Outer Garden　Tatsumi Yagura Turret　Gyoko Street　Tokyo Station　Marunouchi Building pine pilings
    • 1325 Harajuku　Meiji Jingu Shrine visit　Takeshita Street entrance (did not enter due to the crowds)
    • 1440 Shibuya　Hachiko Statue　Scramble Crossing
    • 1510 Disband at Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square

    What's a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe who had arrived in Japan the previous night. After Tokyo, they planned to visit Mount Fuji, the Kansai region, and Hiroshima. They had reportedly strolled around Senso-ji Temple the night before, but just to be sure, I explained each spot in detail. Since one of the guests wanted to buy crafts, and although the shops were not yet open due to the early hour, I introduced places such as Kurodaya for washi paper, Sakai Kokodo for ukiyo-e prints, Seisuke knives, maneki-neko, and daruma dolls. Because it was early, we were able to walk smoothly. Since the guests would be staying in Asakusa for three days, they planned to shop on another day. The Yanaka-Nezu-Sendagi area involved a bit of a long walk, but fortunately it was cloudy, so there was no direct sunlight, which was a relief. At Yanaka Ginza, the guests purchased ceramic accessories. The guests seemed intrigued, noting that they would not usually walk through such back streets on a typical sightseeing route. At the Meiji Jingu Forest Terrace, the guests also purchased accessories. Takeshita Street was so crowded on a Sunday afternoon that the guests did not feel like entering, so we simply took photos at the entrance and skipped it. After the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, I took the guests to the Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square, as they had requested, and we parted ways there. They said the return trip would be no problem, as it was a single ride on the Ginza Line.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassAsakusa～Ueno700JPY
    Section 2TrainUeno～Nippori160JPY
    Section 3Free PassNezu～Nijubashimae0JPY
    Section 4Free PassNijubashimae～Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku～Shibuya160JPY
    Section 6Free PassShibuya～Aoyama-itchome0JPY
    Total1,020JPY

    Tour Report by Ted

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

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

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

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

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

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

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

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

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

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

    Request Booking

    Sep 24, 2026
    Leslie_R
    Good tour on first day
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Ted, our guide was…

    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…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kyoto & Shijo

    Kyoto in One Day: Kyoto & Shijo

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet @ Hotel Kyoto Hachijo
    • 8:56-9:01 Kyoto → Inari JR 150 yen
    • 9:10-10:10 Sightseeing at Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 10:28-10:35 Fushimi Inari → Kiyomizu-Gojo Keihan 240 yen
    • 10:50-12:00 Sightseeing at Kiyomizu-dera
    • 12:10-12:30 Strolling around Sannenzaka, Hokan-ji, Yasaka Shrine
    • 12:40-13:30 Lunch @ Ramen Kyo Gion Main Store
    • 13:40-14:20 Strolling around Gion Shirakawa & Nishiki Market
    • 14:30-14:35 Shijo → Kyoto Subway 220 yen
    • 14:45 Disband @ Hotel Kyoto Hachijo

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, and Gion The guests were a group visiting from North America. I guided them through Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kiyomizu-dera, the Gion area, and Nishiki Market. They were impressed that, compared to where they live, Japan felt clean, well-organized, and that people were very respectful. The guests asked many questions and encouraged one another to take an interest in the sights. They enjoyed photography and took family selfies at each spot. We were lucky to see a portable shrine from the Gion Festival at Yasaka Shrine. Although the forecast had predicted cloudy weather, there was quite a bit of sunshine, and it felt very hot.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari～Kiyomizu-Gojo240JPY
    Section 3TrainShijo (Kyoto Municipal)～Kyoto220JPY
    Total610JPY

    Tour Report by AndyMurao

    Hello! I am Andy Murao. I love this job as I can visit various destinations with the people from all over the world. I am always thinking that I could help you know more about Japan and understand the attractiveness of Japan.

    I would like to provide a tour in accordance with your request and preference. Please let me know what you want to see, eat, experience, etc. and then I will propose a schedule based on them.

    There is one point to note. I like walking very much, so I might be a guide who forces you to take long walks.

    I look forward to attending you in Japan.

    Best regards,

    Andy Murao

    Request Booking

    Sep 20, 2026
    Bobby_B
    A great Kyoto guide.
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Andy was very nice and…

    Jul 13, 2026
    webstere2025
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent
    Andy(Atsushi) was great and communicated with us beforehand about our…

    Jun 21, 2026
    Catherine_D
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in Osaka
    Andy was great . On time and patience…

    Jun 6, 2026
    eyeessess
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour!
    Andy Murao was an amazing and wonderful tour guide.…

  • Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet the guests at Hotel Osaka　➡　At JR Osaka Station, assist with purchasing tomorrow's Shinkansen tickets to Tokyo, then take the JR to Osaka Castle (11:40~13:10)　➡　By subway to Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street (13:40-14:40)　➡　By taxi to Daimaru Umeda Store. After guiding the guests to their requested udon restaurant, part ways (15:10)

    Title: What's a Private Osaka Walking Tour Like for Guests Who Want Local Spots? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They mentioned that they had been traveling for a while, having visited North America, Asia, Okinawa, Hiroshima, and Osaka along the way. Based on our communication beforehand, they were not particularly interested in shrines and temples and wanted to visit places frequented by local people, so I took them to Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street, the longest covered shopping arcade in Japan. This area has long been a lively, down-to-earth space where local residents enjoy everyday shopping, dining, and socializing, and the guests enjoyed their shopping and seemed very satisfied. They wanted to have udon near their accommodation, so we traveled by taxi. We said goodbye at a restaurant.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOsaka～Osaka Castle Park180JPY
    Section 2SubwayMorinomiya～Tenjinbashisuji 6-chome240JPY
    Total420JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Ryoan-ji

    Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Ryoan-ji

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel Meet (@Yugan Kyoto Shijo)
    • 10:00-10:45 Transfer (Keihan Line; Gion-Shijo → Keihan Sanjo, Subway; Sanjo Keihan → Nijojo-mae)
    • 10:45-12:10 Nijo Castle visit
    • 12:10-12:45 Transfer (City Bus; Nijojo-mae → Waratenjin-mae)
    • 12:45-13:40 Lunch (@CoCo Hana / near Kinkaku-ji)
    • 13:50-14:40 Kinkaku-ji visit
    • 14:40-15:10 Transfer (City Bus; Kinkakuji-michi → Ryoanji-mae)
    • 15:10-16:00 Ryoan-ji visit
    • 16:00 Tour ended We parted with the guests in front of Ryoan-ji. The guests returned by taxi as they had their next plans.

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji, and Ryoan-ji The guests were a group visiting from North America. It was everyone's first time in Japan. I took them to Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji, and Ryoan-ji. It was a tour under an intense heat of 34°C. I had also reserved a restaurant in advance with the guests' agreement, but they mentioned that they were not very hungry and wanted to skip it in consideration of their dinner plans. Since I wanted to avoid a same-day cancellation of the reservation, we decided to just have drinks. In reality, at the restaurant they had drinks and shared a single portion of food, but the food was so delicious that they later added an order of the same dish for one more portion. I was glad we did not have to cancel the restaurant. Everyone said that the partition paintings at Nijo Castle were something they had never seen before and were the highlight of the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGion-Shijo～Sanjo (Kyoto)180JPY
    Section 2SubwaySanjo (Kyoto)～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 3BusNijojo-mae～Waratenjin-mae / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4BusKinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus～Ryoanji-mae / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total860JPY

    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 !

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    Aug 4, 2026
    Elie_S
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Wonderful and informative walking tour with Michi
    We had a lovely…

    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.…

  • Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 09:00 Tour starts from the hotel
    • Travel　On foot　Via Oyama Shrine　Kanazawa Castle Park
    • AM 09:20- 11:00 Visit Oyama Shrine, Gyokusen'inmaru Garden, Kanazawa Castle Park
    • AM 11:00-11:45 Kenrokuen Garden
    • Travel　Bus　Hashiba-cho
    • PM 12:15- 13:30 Visit Kazuemachi Chaya District, Higashi Chaya District　Gold leaf ice cream　Shima
    • Travel　Bus　Korinbo
    • PM 14:00-14:50 Nagamachi Samurai District area　Visit Nomura Family Residence, Ashigaru Museum
    • Travel　Bus　Musashigatsuji　Omicho Market
    • PM 15:10 Tour ends

    What Is a Private Kanazawa Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. They had traveled by rental car from Tokyo, stopping at Lake Kawaguchi, Magome, Takayama, and Kanazawa along the way. Although it was a hot and humid day, the guests listened with great interest to the explanations at each spot, and we proceeded through the tour at a relaxed pace with breaks along the way. The original plan had been to have lunch at Omicho Market partway through the tour, but as time ran short, the guests kindly agreed to move it to the end of the tour, where they enjoyed a late lunch. Thanks to the cooperation of the guests, it turned out to be a very fulfilling tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKenrokuen-shita・Kanazawa Castle／Hokuriku Railroad Bus～Hashiba-cho／Hokuriku Railroad Bus220JPY
    Section 2BusHashiba-cho／Hokuriku Railroad Bus～Korinbo／Hokuriku Railroad Bus220JPY
    Section 3BusKorinbo／Hokuriku Railroad Bus～Musashigatsuji・Omicho Market／Hokuriku Railroad Bus220JPY
    Total660JPY

    Tour Report by YOSHI

    Hello , My name is Hideharu Yoshino . Just call me” Yoshi” .
    I have been involved with many foreign Business partners through my business life for 38 years ,
    Based on my work experience , I would like to try my best to make you comfortale and Happy fruitful times during your stay in Japan .
    Not only giving you basic tourist information about famous sightseeing spot , also I would enjoy to give you the back ground inofrmation in my word.
    ” Once in a lifetime encounter ” Let’s enjoy with me Miracle time to be picked up from 6 billion in somewhere Japan!

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    Sep 29, 2026
    matthewsY2654UC
    Highly recommended!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Yoshi is an exceptional guide where he took us…

    Sep 28, 2026
    751juergend
    Perfect day in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the perfect guide, very…

    Sep 27, 2026
    karen_f
    YOSHI san was incredible!
    Viator review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    YOSHI met us at our…

    Sep 19, 2026
    Plumb72
    A morning in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a fab tour with Yoshi…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa & Azabudai Hills

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa & Azabudai Hills

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet up @ Hotel Roppongi Premier
    • 11:00 Hibiya – Imperial Palace Outer Garden – Nijubashi Bridge – East Gardens
    • 12:15 Asakusa (Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Okuyama, Hoppy Street, Denboin Street, Kannon Street)
    • 13:00 Lunch @ Nyarosuke Tonanya
    • 14:00 Kabukiza Theatre
    • 14:20 Azabudai Hills
    • 14:55 Disband @ Hotel Roppongi Premier

    What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Hibiya, the Imperial Palace, Azabudai Hills, and Asakusa The guest was visiting Japan for the first time from Oceania, traveling for a trip. Their flight arrived at Haneda about 90 minutes late this morning, and since work would begin the following day, they used their free day to sightsee in Tokyo. Because the guest wanted to see the many different faces of Tokyo and hear about their historical background within a short time, we chose Hibiya, the Imperial Palace, Azabudai Hills, and Asakusa as our destinations. At the Imperial Palace and Asakusa, I explained the difference between the samurai and the townspeople of the Edo period, and how that distinction continues to this day. As a contrast to the Mokubakan in Asakusa, I also showed them the Kabukiza Theatre so they could observe the difference in the types of audiences. In particular, while walking through Azabudai Hills, the guest remarked, "These people are clearly different from the Japanese I saw on Hoppy Street in Asakusa." The guest was delighted to be able to see two different faces of Tokyo in such a short time. During lunch and while traveling between sites, it was charming to see the guest checking whether the Japanese business customs they had heard about from colleagues were actually correct.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayRoppongi～Hibiya180JPY
    Section 2TrainOtemachi (Tokyo)～Asakusa180JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa～Higashi-Ginza220JPY
    Section 4SubwayHigashi-Ginza～Kamiyacho180JPY
    Total760JPY

    Tour Report by Hideki

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

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

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

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

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