Category: Uncategorized

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

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

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Hotel Meet
    • 10:30 Miyajima
    • 13:30 Lunch
    • 14:30 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 17:30 Dismiss in front of Atomic Bomb Dome

    Title: What Is a Private Miyajima and Hiroshima Peace Park Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe, guided on a private tour of Miyajima and the Hiroshima Peace Park with [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/). The weather was cloudy and then clear. Highlights of the day included the Kaidan-meguri (the underground passage beneath the temple) and a stroll along Maple Road. Because the original contact information had been listed under a location in Asia, my inquiries were not getting through, but through email I learned the guest's phone number and was finally able to reach them via a messaging app. Since there had been a change in accommodation from the original plan, I was relieved to be able to confirm directly with the guest through the messaging app. During the tour, rather than focusing solely on guiding, we had a lively conversation about Dracula. Recently there have been frequent disruptions between Hiroshima Station and Miyajimaguchi Station, and today as well the train stopped for about 17 minutes to check a railroad crossing. For a while, I think I will refrain from boasting about the punctuality of Japanese trains.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi Station440JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi Station～Nishi-Hiroshima Station330JPY
    Section 3BusNishi-Hiroshima Station～Hiroshima Peace Park220JPY
    Total990JPY

    Tour Report by Yuji

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①　10:30　The Thousand Kyoto　Meet up
    • ②　10:35　Itinerary explanation・Brief explanation about the history of Kyoto
    • ③　11:15　Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • ④　13:00　Stroll and lunch at Nishiki Market
    • ⑤　14:30　Daitoku-ji・Daisen-in
    • ⑥　16:00　Kiyomizu-dera
    • ⑦　17:00　Yasaka Pagoda
    • ⑧　17:30　Return to the hotel and disband

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kiyomizu-dera at Sunset The guests were visitors from Europe, and this was their first time in Japan and in Kyoto. They had friends they had met during their university days living in Tokyo, and this was their first trip to Japan to see them. They were very sincere, and we talked about many things such as history, culture, and religion. They always listened while offering comments, saying things like "it's similar to how it is back home" or "it's completely different, which is interesting," and I was impressed by what good listeners they were, which made it very easy to talk with them. One of the guests came from an Asian background, and we enjoyed talking about how there are many similarities in ways of thinking between Japan and Asia, especially when it comes to views on religion. We ran a little over time, but the guests were able to see a wonderful sunset at Kiyomizu-dera, so I think it worked out well. I am also very grateful to the hired car driver, Mr. Shigemori, who skillfully navigated through the traffic and helped us a great deal when we were pressed for time. I would like to take this opportunity to express my thanks.

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

    Tour Report by Kazu

    Hello, this is Kazu Akiyama, your tour guide. Nice to meet you and welcome to Japan. Thank you for joining me on the tour. Now I am a retired salaried worker, living in Osaka. I have been very much interested in not only learning Japanese history, culture, religion myself, but also talking about them (sometimes going off topics) in English with tourists from all over the world as well. I am so excited being with you as your guide on coming day! I am very much looking forward to you enjoying with me visiting the must-see places and some of the hidden gems. See you soon. Thank you – Kazu Akiyama

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    Jul 29, 2026
    James_G
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great guide and very…
    Great guide and very knowledgeable.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    peterhR6472GA
    Kyoto highlights with Kazu.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with Kazu…

    Jul 12, 2026
    cgalvez73
    Fantastic tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our guide in Kyoto was Kazu.…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Winni_H
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Highly recommended when in Kyoto
    Our tour guide…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Yasaka Shrine & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Yasaka Shrine & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 15:00 Meet @ Sky Garden Terrace Kyoto
    • 15:20-30 Yasaka Shrine sightseeing
    • 15:40-16:10 Kodaiji Temple sightseeing
    • 16:30-17:40 Kiyomizu-dera Temple sightseeing
    • 17:50-18:30 Strolling around Yasui Konpiragu, Gion, and Hanamikoji area
    • 18:45- Dinner @ Mameya (guide to the seat and take leave)

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Kyoto's Gion and Higashiyama Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Asia. They visited Yasaka Shrine, Kodaiji Temple, Kiyomizudera Temple, and Yasui Konpiragu Shrine. Afterward, they strolled through the Gion area and enjoyed dinner at a restaurant in Pontocho. Some of the guests had visited Japan before in 2011 and had been to Kiyomizudera Temple at that time. On this visit, they wanted to show the rest of the group the Zuigudo Hall at Kiyomizudera Temple, but since admission was only available until 16:00, this was not possible. Meanwhile, one of the guests seemed to enjoy photography and actively took photos at each place we visited. At Ninenzaka, they purchased souvenirs for friends and enjoyed some distinctly Japanese shopping.

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

    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

    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.…

    Jun 5, 2026
    Janice_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 9hr Private Tour (Kobe Dep. ) with Licensed Guide
    Great tour of Kyoto
    It was a good tour…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Sumiyoshi Taisha & Umeda Sky Building

    Osaka in Half a Day: Sumiyoshi Taisha & Umeda Sky Building

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet @ Hotel Relief Namba Daikokuchou
    • 10:15 @ Sumiyoshi Taisha
    • 11:45 @ Shinsekai
    • 12:45 @ Dotonbori
    • 13:30 @ Umeda Sky Building

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Walking Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Sumiyoshi Taisha, Shinsekai, and Dotonbori The guests were visitors from Asia. Throughout the tour, they showed great interest at each spot and listened attentively to the guide's explanations. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led this private one-day tour of Osaka, which included Sumiyoshi Taisha, Shinsekai, Dotonbori, and the Umeda Sky Building. Sumiyoshi Taisha was very lively today, with many worshippers and food stalls set up. The guests prayed earnestly. At the popular power spot, they searched for the "Go-Dai-Riki" pebbles and successfully found them. They also enjoyed Shinsekai and Dotonbori, but the most popular highlight is naturally the local food, which I found difficult to introduce given their dietary preferences. However, when I introduced an okonomiyaki restaurant in Dotonbori that also offers suitable menu options, they said they would like to visit again if possible and took photos of the shop. Finally, I guided them to the ticket counter of the Umeda Sky Building, where we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayDaikokucho～Namba190JPY
    Section 2TrainNamba～Sumiyoshi Taisha240JPY
    Section 3TrainSumiyoshi Taisha～Shin-Imamiya240JPY
    Section 4SubwayDobutsuen-mae～Nipponbashi190JPY
    Section 5SubwayShinsaibashi～Umeda240JPY
    Total1,100JPY

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

    This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
    I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
    real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
    if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

    Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
    that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
    and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
    foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
    Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
    explanation for these three foods.

    1) Tako-yaki
    Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
    octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
    2) Okonomi-yaki
    This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
    Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
    3) Kushi-katsu
    Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
    ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

    Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
    that you like them very much.

    I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
    and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
    great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

    Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
    Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
    Yama

    Request Booking

    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Diane_B
    Viator review: Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Yama was amazing!!
    Our tour guide…

    Jul 4, 2026
    Navigator661725
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful time!
    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

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

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

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

    Tour Report Date: 2025/01/19 Places visited: Miyajima, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Guest: (guest) Weather: Sunny, later cloudy Experiences: Kaidan-meguri (underground passage), stroll along Maple Road Details: The guests were visitors from North America. The tour was originally scheduled for the previous day, but it was moved to today. For lunch they requested okonomiyaki, and they had wanted to share a single serving between them, but since that would be very difficult, I asked them to order a light single item instead.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi Station440JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi Station～Shin-Hakushima330JPY
    Section 3TrainShin-Hakushima～Kenchomae190JPY
    Section 4BusHiroshima Peace Park～Hiroshima Station220JPY
    Total1,180JPY

    Tour Report by Yuji

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Fushimi Inari

    Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Fushimi Inari

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Hotel Meet (Hotel Blossom Kyoto)
    • 9:30-10:10 Travel (City Bus; Karasuma Gojo → Gojozaka)
    • 10:10-11:30 Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 11:30-11:50 Travel (Taxi; Yasaka Pagoda → Restaurant Sato/near Sanjusangendo)
    • 12:00-12:50 Lunch; Restaurant Sato
    • 13:00-13:40 Visit Sanjusangendo
    • 13:40-14:10 Travel (Taxi; Sanjusangendo → Fushimi Inari)
    • 14:10-14:50 Visit Fushimi Inari
    • 14:50-15:20 Travel (Taxi; Fushimi Inari → Hotel/Hotel Blossom Kyoto)
    • Say goodbye at the hotel

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kiyomizu-dera, Sanjusangen-do, and Fushimi Inari The guests were visitors from North America. I took the group to Kiyomizu-dera, Sanjusangen-do, and Fushimi Inari. With the Lunar New Year approaching, Kiyomizu-dera and Fushimi Inari were extremely crowded with large groups of tourists. Kiyomizu-dera in particular was so packed that it was difficult to move around. One of the guests began to feel unwell during the tour (the crowds at Kiyomizu-dera may have been a factor), so we switched to traveling by taxi. Sanjusangen-do, which we were able to visit in a relatively calm atmosphere, seemed to leave a strong impression on the guests.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKarasuma Gojo～Gojozaka230JPY
    Section 2OtherYasaka Pagoda～Restaurant Sato (near Sanjusangendo)0JPY
    Section 3OtherSanjusangendo～Fushimi Inari0JPY
    Section 4OtherFushimi Inari～Hotel (Hotel Blossom Kyoto)0JPY
    Total230JPY

    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…

  • Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 12:00 Meet almost on time at the Himeji Station Central Ticket Gate and head to Himeji Castle
    • 2. 12:45 Himeji Castle tour starts
    • 3. 15:10 Koko-en Garden tour starts
    • 4. 15:50 After finishing Koko-en Garden, head to JR Himeji Station
    • 5. 16:15 Arrive at Himeji Station and the tour ends

    What Is a Private Himeji Castle and Koko-en Garden Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were met on time at the central ticket gate of JR Himeji Station, and we headed to Himeji Castle. We proceeded from the site of the former outer moat, past the stone walls of the existing middle moat, and then explained the inner moat and its stone walls as we walked, quickly finishing a sandwich lunch around the rest area of Otemae Park before continuing on. The guests were surprised that the castle occupied such a large site surrounded by a triple moat, and they seemed very interested in the layout within the inner moat. The scale of the middle moat and its stone walls (except on the south side) and the inner moat and its stone walls seemed to exceed their expectations. Including the defensive mechanisms inside the main keep, there are maze-like passages, and they commented that it would be difficult to attack, that it was very well thought out, and that it was fascinating. I believe they enjoyed talking about these features very much. At Koko-en Garden, they seemed to admire the variety of gardens with their differing atmospheres, and they especially liked the nishikigoi carp and the design of the residence garden, as well as the lively movement of the water in the flat garden with its flowing stream. They were delighted. This was my first time doing a tour on New Year's Day. Until recently, Himeji Castle and Koko-en Garden were open free of charge on New Year's Day, so the number of visitors exceeded 10,000 and it was always extremely crowded. I heard that this practice was discontinued after the pandemic. It was less crowded than I had expected, so I was able to guide relatively smoothly and felt relieved. When we looked into the souvenir shops and eateries around the castle, there were few shops and restaurants open around the station on New Year's Day, which was a little unfortunate for the guests. We returned to JR Himeji Station and ended the tour.

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

    Tour Report by Hiro

    I am Hiromi Mizoi, call me Hiro. I mainly have Himeji tours because I live in Himeji. I got my National Guide Certificate in 2017. I started to guide tourists as a volunteer guide in 2004. I had been a volunteer guide for a long time. However, I could not have any tours from April in 2020 to November in 2022 due to the Covid-19 Pandemic. Now, many tourists have come back to Japan. So, I am very excited. I would like to share not only the beauty of Himeji Castle’s Main Tower Complex but also the tricky defense systems of the entire Castle Grounds, which many visitors do not realize, with you. I was born and grew up very close to the west side of the moats of the Castle. So, I love Himeji Castle. I like other tourists’ favorite sightseeing spots such as Kokoen Garden and Engyoji Temple in Mt. Shosya. As one of Himeji locals, I am greatly happy to share the local people’s favorite spots with you. I look forward to your tours.

    Request Booking

    May 31, 2026
    Ash N
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Guided tour recommended for maximum enjoyment at Himeji Castle.
    Wonderful, informative…

    May 25, 2026
    IrinaVadim
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Himeji Castle and Kokoen park
    Hiromi Misoi is a very knowledgeable and…

    Mar 28, 2025
    esperanzarZ60BH
    Great experience
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Had a great time. Hiro was fantastic. She provided so…

    Feb 16, 2025
    hayleigho412
    Himeji Castle
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an excellent day with our guide, Hiromi Mizoi…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Arashiyama & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in One Day: Arashiyama & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Meet up @West Japan Kyoto Kiyomizu
    • 09:15 Arashiyama stroll (Tenryu-ji Temple, Bamboo Grove, Togetsukyo Bridge)
    • 11:00 Visit Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 12:30 Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 13:30 Visit Nijo Castle
    • 14:15 Disband @Nijo Castle

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, visiting Japan for the first time. After attending an international conference in Kobe, they traveled through Himeji and Osaka before arriving in Kyoto the day before, and were planning to move on to Ito and Tokyo the next day. Since their stay in Kyoto was short, the itinerary was arranged to cover the most representative sightseeing spots. Contrary to my expectations, the guests had a strong interest in and knowledge of Japanese history and culture (for example, they knew the names and historical roles of Sengoku-era warlords such as Oda Nobunaga and Toyotomi Hideyoshi), and many questions came up throughout the tour. It was rewarding to explain things to such guests, and it was a very enjoyable tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainRanden Shijo-Omiya～Arashiyama250JPY
    Section 2TrainArashiyama～Kitano-Hakubaicho250JPY
    Total500JPY

    Tour Report by Shoji

    My name is Shoji and I’m a tour guide in Kyoto, an ancient capital of Japan for more than one thousand years until the mid 19th century.
    I have been doing this work since 2019 covering not only Kyoto but also its surrounding areas like Nara , Osaka and Shiga.
    I am very much interested in Japanese history, culture and traditional arts.
    Kyoto and the Kansai region are rich with many heritage sites of historical and cultural features.
    I am sure that I can provide the guests with good insight and help them appreciate the charms of our wonderful city.

    Request Booking

    May 23, 2026
    Amber_D
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great walking tour in Kyoto!
    Shoji was a great guide around Kyoto.…

    Jun 25, 2025
    Safari35155142765
    Peaceful and perfect temple guided tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Brilliant private guided tour of Kyoto…

    Jun 22, 2025
    Global136391
    Shoji Ogawa Made Kyoto Come Alive!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    If you’re ever in Kyoto, you…

    Jun 9, 2025
    Amy_R
    Wonderful Nara tour
    Viator review: Private Nara Tour with Government Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Kyoto Departure)
    We had such a wonderful…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Kyoto City Hall & Iwatayama Monkey Park

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Kyoto City Hall & Iwatayama Monkey Park

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:15 Meet @ Hilton Kyoto
    • 10:34-11:07 Kyoto City Hall → Uzumasa Tenjingawa, Subway 260 yen
    • 11:07 Uzumasa Tenjingawa → Arashiyama → Randen 250 yen
    • 11:15-12:30 Kimono Forest, Tenryu-ji Temple, Bamboo Grove Path sightseeing
    • 12:35- Lunch @ Gyatei
    • 13:30 Iwatayama Monkey Park
    • 14:27-14:49 Arashiyama – Kyoto Kawaramachi, Hankyu 240 yen
    • 15:10 Disband @ Hilton Kyoto

    **Title:** What Is a Private Kyoto Arashiyama Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a visitor from North America who was very interested in Japanese culture and enjoyed sightseeing with a cheerful mood throughout the day. In Arashiyama, I explained the beauty of Zen and Japanese gardens at Tenryu-ji Temple, and the guest was especially moved by the tranquility of the garden. Next, we strolled along the Bamboo Grove Path, greatly enjoying the serene atmosphere and the natural scenery. At Togetsukyo Bridge, the guest took photographs while admiring the riverside views. For lunch, the guest had obanzai at a local restaurant, finishing everything while saying it was "very delicious."

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto City Hall～Uzumasa Tenjingawa260JPY
    Section 2TrainUzumasa Tenjingawa～Arashiyama250JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama～Kyoto Kawaramachi240JPY
    Total750JPY

    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

    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.…

    Jun 5, 2026
    Janice_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 9hr Private Tour (Kobe Dep. ) with Licensed Guide
    Great tour of Kyoto
    It was a good tour…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Sanjo & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in One Day: Sanjo & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ Hotel Alza Kyoto
    • 9:13-9:23 Sanjo → Fushimi Inari　220 yen　JR
    • 9:30-10:30 Sightseeing at Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 10:39-11:13 Inari → Saga-Arashiyama　240 yen　JR
    • 11:20-12:40 Sightseeing at Tenryu-ji, Bamboo Grove Path, Togetsukyo Bridge, Kimono Forest
    • 12:45-13:30 Lunch @ Arashiyama Curry
    • 13:40-13:46 Saga-Arashiyama → Nijo　200 yen　JR
    • 14:00-15:00 Sightseeing at Nijo Castle
    • 15:12-15:18 Nijojo-mae – Sanjo Keihan　220 yen　Subway
    • 15:30 Dismiss @ Hotel Alza Kyoto

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour of Fushimi Inari, Arashiyama, and Nijo Castle Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from North America. The guests had a deep interest in Japanese culture and history, and they asked many questions, especially on topics related to religion and political systems. We began at Fushimi Inari Taisha, where we walked through the Senbon Torii, and I explained the history of Shinto and the role of shrines. Next, we visited Arashiyama, where at Tenryu-ji Temple I spoke about Buddhism and Zen teachings, and the guests enjoyed the beauty of the Japanese garden. Along the Bamboo Grove path and at Togetsukyo Bridge, we continued our conversation about Japanese culture while enjoying the scenery. For lunch, the guests had curry in Arashiyama and were very satisfied. Finally, we visited Nijo Castle, where I explained in detail the shoguns of the Edo period and the changes in the imperial system.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSanjo～Fushimi Inari220JPY
    Section 2TrainInari～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 3TrainSaga-Arashiyama～Nijo200JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijojo-mae～Sanjo Keihan220JPY
    Total880JPY

    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

    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.…

    Jun 5, 2026
    Janice_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 9hr Private Tour (Kobe Dep. ) with Licensed Guide
    Great tour of Kyoto
    It was a good tour…