Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Yasaka Pagoda & Kanji Museum

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Yasaka Pagoda & Kanji Museum

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:45 Hotel meet-up
    • 10:15 Yasaka Pagoda
    • 10:35 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 11:30 Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka, Ishibei-koji, Yasaka Shrine
    • 12:30 Gion
    • 13:00 Kanji Museum
    • 13:30 Tour ends

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The tour began at 9:30 with a hotel meet, but the start was delayed as I had to wait while the guests finished breakfast. The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They seemed to enjoy walking and had already explored many of Kyoto's sightseeing spots on foot. Today we took a bus at the beginning, but walked everywhere afterward. Both of them appeared to have plenty of energy. At Kiyomizu-dera, they kindly accepted an interview request from students on a school excursion. Photos were mainly taken by one of the guests. After I guided them through Gion, they watched a video about the Gion Festival very attentively at the Kanji Museum. After the tour ended, they planned to visit Chion-in and Heian Shrine on their own, so I gave them a little guidance in English before we parted ways. The photos were taken at Kiyomizu-dera.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKarasuma-Shichijo～Kiyomizu-michi230JPY
    Total230JPY

    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.

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour

    Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour

    Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:45 Hotel meetup (Ropeway and pirate ship operations suspended) By bus to Motohakone. Hakone Shrine. Lunch in Hakonemachi. Checkpoint ruins. Souvenir shops. Onshi Park. Old highway cedar avenue. Stroll. Since pirate ship operations had resumed, moved to Motohakone. 15:10 By pirate ship to Togendai Port. By bus via Sengokuro, got off at Tenyu. The person walked to the hotel on foot. Dismissed at 16:45

    Title: What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour Like When the Ropeway and Boats Are Suspended? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: On this private Hakone tour with [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), the ropeway between Sounzan and Owakudani was suspended for maintenance and replaced by a substitute bus, but the bus service was then halted due to strong winds, and the pirate ship sightseeing boats were also suspended. Although the guests were disappointed, we hoped for improving weather and first visited their requested destinations of Hakone Shrine, Onshi Park, and the cedar avenue. Fortunately, Mount Fuji revealed itself and the pirate ships resumed operation, which delighted the guests. However, another requested spot, Owakudani, remained closed, so we had to give it up. For the next day, the plan was to visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum and then take the 14:00 bullet train from Odawara to Kyoto. Accordingly, we discussed that route and the timing, and then parted ways at a bus stop near the hotel. It was a wonderful group, and we all enjoyed the whole day together.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOdawara Station～Odawara Station5,000JPY
    Total5,000JPY

    Tour Report by Hiro

    I am Hiroki Morikawa :Hiro:, English guide living with my wife ,just a hop skip and jump from Hakone, Kamakura, Tokyo and the Mt. Fuji.
    I am a friendly grandfather of 4 grandchildren.
    I would love to help you enjoy Japan, using my 3 strong points.
    First: I am used to dealing with any kind of matters. I have experienced various situations in the 40 years of my working life.
    Second: I am good at making a friendly atmosphere between you and local people to help you enjoy Japan. I was raised in western Japan, studied in northern Japan and now live in central Japan. So I know various local cultures and dialects to communicate with a wide variety of people.
    Third: I can explain things from a technical point of view.
    For example, how the Great Buddha was constructed, because I am a master of engineering graduated from Hokkaido University.
    Please enjoy Japan with me. See you soon!!
    dummy

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    Jun 30, 2026
    G2432BLtimothyc
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Full Day Tour with Guide and Vehicle
    6 hour tour of Hakone
    we had a great experience with…

    Jun 25, 2026
    T7734IPbrandons
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in hakone
    Niro was perfect for us. He was…

    Jun 8, 2026
    JasonB6980
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hiro-san knows Hakone!
    Our guide, Hiro-san, did a wonderful job introducing…

    Jun 7, 2026
    Tourist31988989961
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura 8 hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide from Tokyo
    Great Day and Tour
    Kamakura was amazing. Enjoyed…

  • Ishikawa in One Day: Samurai Residence Nomura Family & Higashi Chaya

    Ishikawa in One Day: Samurai Residence Nomura Family & Higashi Chaya

    Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:50　Meet at Machiya Kurohoro
    • 09:45　Samurai Residence Nomura Family
    • 11:10　Kenrokuen Garden
    • 11:45　Kanazawa Castle Park
    • 12:45　Chamaron in Higashiyama (Lunch)
    • 14:00　Kenrokuen Garden
    • 13:50　Kanazawa Castle Park
    • 14:00　Higashi Chaya District (Gold leaf experience at Mikazari Asano, Shima)
    • 15:00　Dismissal at Higashi Chaya District

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Kanazawa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from South America on a private tour of Kanazawa. At the samurai residence, the guests were delighted by the beautiful garden and the elevated tatami room. On the way from the samurai residence to Korinbo, they shopped at stores selling Kutani porcelain, diatomaceous earth products, and indigo-dyed goods. The guests seemed very interested in traditional crafts. At Kenrokuen Garden, they enjoyed the winter scenery, including the yukitsuri rope supports on the trees. As we were short on time at Kanazawa Castle, we could not go inside the Gojukken Nagaya storehouse, but the guests enjoyed the exterior view of Kanazawa Castle. For lunch, we visited a Western-style restaurant in the Higashiyama area, where they enjoyed dishes such as pork cutlet curry. They love Japanese curry, and the restaurant staff were very kind, so we had an enjoyable lunchtime. In the afternoon, we did a gold leaf experience in the Higashi Chaya District. Everyone was satisfied with their original gold leaf creations. After that, I guided them through the Shima teahouse. The highlights for the guests this time seemed to be shopping for traditional crafts, the pork cutlet curry for lunch, and the gold leaf experience.

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

    Tour Report by Sho

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Ginkaku-ji Temple & Kanji Museum

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Ginkaku-ji Temple & Kanji Museum

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:25 Meet at hotel
    • 9:00 Ginkaku-ji Temple
    • 10:45 Yasaka Pagoda
    • 11:05 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 11:45 Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka, Yasaka Shrine
    • 12:15 Kanji Museum
    • 12:30 Tour ends

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. In the morning, when I went to pick them up at the Hotel, they were already waiting in the lobby. They were very courteous and listened attentively to my explanations. We arrived at Ginkaku-ji almost exactly at opening time, and since there were few tourists, I was able to guide them calmly. At Kiyomizu-dera, they enjoyed hearing the anecdotes about the famous Kiyomizu stage. The tour was scheduled to end at Yasaka Shrine, but as we had a little extra time, I guided them to the Gion Festival corner at the Kanji Museum and showed them a video of the Gion Festival. Both of them watched with great interest. The photo was taken at Ginkaku-ji. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. Winner of Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusSanjo Keihan～Ginkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 2BusGinkakuji-michi～Higashiyama Sanjo230JPY
    Section 3BusHigashiyama Sanjo～Kiyomizu-michi230JPY
    Total690JPY

    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.

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:00　Meet up @Hotel Gracery shinjuku
    • 2. 8:30　@Meiji Shrine
    • 3. 8:45　@Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 4. 9:30　@Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue)
    • 5. 10:30　@Roppongi (Roppongi Hills, Crossing)
    • 6. 11:15　@Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • 7. 11:45　@Tokyo Station (Station Plaza)
    • 8. 12:00　Lunch @"Washoku En" (inside Oazo)
    • 9. 13:00　@Nihonbashi (Takashimaya Food Section)
    • 10. 13:30　@Asakusa (Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, Sumida Park)
    • 11. 14:30　@Ginza (Chuo Street)
    • 12. 14:50　Disband @In front of Hotel Gracery shinjuku

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was visiting Japan for the first time and had arrived at a hotel in Shinjuku the night before the tour. In line with the guest's wish to see a variety of places, we explored Tokyo together. The original plan was to head straight to the Imperial Palace after Shibuya, but before that we took a Toei bus from Shibuya toward the Roppongi area. From Roppongi Hills, the guest took in an overview of central Tokyo while looking at buildings such as Tokyo Tower and Azabudai Hills. On Nakamise Street at Senso-ji Temple, the guest purchased a slightly upscale pair of chopsticks as a souvenir.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Shinjuku-sanchome Station～Meiji-jingumae Station600JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Meiji-jingumae Station～Shibuya Station0JPY
    Section 3BusToei Bus Shibuya Station stop～Toei Bus Roppongi EX Theater stop210JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Roppongi Station～Kasumigaseki Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Nihonbashi Station～Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 6Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station～Ginza Station0JPY
    Section 7Free PassTokyo Metro Marunouchi Line Ginza Station～Shinjuku-sanchome Station0JPY
    Total810JPY

    Tour Report by Noripy

    Hello, I’m Noripy.
    I am a lively woman in my 60s who loves having fun. My charm lies in my bright and approachable personality. Drawing on over 30 years of international experience, I began working as a tour guide in 2023. I have conducted over 100 tours annually, ensuring that my clients enjoy Tokyo and its surrounding areas. I have received high praise from a wide range of customers, from teenagers to people in their 80s. I cater to solo travelers, couples, newlyweds, families, and groups of up to about 10 people. Living in the heart of the city, I actively guide tours primarily in Tokyo. In addition to being certified in English, one of my strengths is being able to communicate effectively in Spanish as well.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you all in Tokyo!

    Request Booking

    Jul 3, 2026
    Jody D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from Yokohama
    Best Post cruise tour ever
    It was…

    June 19, 2026
    Alec T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo in 4 hours
    Noripy was excellent! She guided us through…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Hema_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely experience. My…
    Lovely experience. My guide was an absolutely adorable lady…

    Jun 3, 2026
    Sara B
    Tokyo walking tour with Noripy. A+!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Noripy gave a 5/5 tour!…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Peace Park

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

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Hotel Meet
    • 09:30 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 13:30 Lunch
    • 14:30 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 16:30 Hiroshima Station, Dismissal

    Tour Report Date: January 2025 Places visited: Miyajima, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Guests: The guests Weather: Cloudy, then clear Experiences: Walking through the underground passage at the temple, stroll along Maple Road Details: The guests were visitors from Oceania. An accident occurred right from the start: a railway crossing accident happened between Hiroshima and Nishi-Hiroshima stations, which disrupted the train schedule. Although the tour usually begins from Miyajima, we decided to go to the Peace Memorial Park first. The guests spent a great deal of time visiting the Peace Memorial Park and the museum. As for their impressions, they mentioned that in order to protect peace, education is truly important.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKenchо̄-mae～Shin-Hakushima190JPY
    Section 2TrainShin-Hakushima～Miyajimaguchi Station330JPY
    Section 3TrainMiyajimaguchi Station～Hiroshima Station420JPY
    Total940JPY

    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 Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hotel Kyoto
    • 9:20 Nijo Castle
    • 11:10 Kinkaku-ji
    • 12:20 Disband in front of the Kinkaku-ji shop

    The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. They had enjoyed skiing earlier in their trip. Since it was the cold season, there were fewer tourists, so we were able to take our time sightseeing at a relaxed pace. The group was very lively and full of energy throughout the tour. As they were interested in Japanese history, I made an effort to explain things at Nijo Castle and Kinkaku-ji as clearly and carefully as possible. As the group started to grow tired, we decided to wrap up the tour a little earlier than planned and return to the hotel. I believe they enjoyed themselves.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKarasuma Oike～Nijo Castle220JPY
    Section 2BusNijojo-mae～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Total450JPY

    Tour Report by Kaeko

    Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

    Request Booking

    Jul 25, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Half-day with private guide in Kyoto
    We spent half a day…

    Jul 24, 2026
    J6711TVnancyb
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Family Fun Day in Kyoto with young children
    Kaeko Tanigawa was fantastic at helping us create…

    Jul 13, 2026
    elizabethtW414DU
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Private Tour
    Kaeko was absolutely amazing from start…

    Jul 12, 2026
    johnkE8649IH
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Kyoto Day Tour
    We had a wonderful experience touring Kyoto…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0930 Keio Presso Inn Tokyo Station Yaesu (2 min from Ginza Line Kyobashi) meeting
    • Help purchasing Shinkansen tickets for today and the 17th at Tokyo Station
    • 　　 Marunouchi ~ Gyoko-dori Avenue ~ Tatsumi Yagura Turret
    • 1050 Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    • 1200 Shinjuku West Exit　Godzilla Head　3D Cat Display　Lunch at Omoide Yokocho
    • 1350 Asakusa　Nakamise　Sensoji Temple　Asakusa Shrine
    • 1540 See you off to the hotel and disband

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like With a Licensed Guide? A Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who arrived at Haneda Airport last night by air, following a cruise journey. They stayed in Tokyo for only a short time and planned to move on to Kyoto in the evening, later returning to Tokyo before flying home from Haneda. Through advance coordination, the tour began after check-out this morning, with luggage stored at the Hotel and round-trip tickets purchased at Tokyo Station. One of the guests walked well while using canes in both hands, but stairs were somewhat difficult, so I looked for escalators and elevators as much as possible to guide them. Whenever there was a place to sit along the way, we took short breaks. Normally we could have visited one more spot, but the itinerary above turned out to be just right. At Koishikawa Korakuen, we walked around the garden while taking short breaks. The guests were disappointed that there were no flowers in bloom. At Omoide Yokocho, they enjoyed yakitori and sashimi. In Asakusa, we took a coffee break at a coffee shop before heading back toward Kyobashi.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOtemachi ~ Kasuga～Iidabashi900JPY
    Section 2Free PassIidabashi～Shinjuku West Exit0JPY
    Section 3Free PassShinjuku West Exit ~ Ueno-okachimachi～Ueno-hirokoji ~ Asakusa0JPY
    Section 4Free PassAsakusa～Kyobashi0JPY
    Total900JPY

    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

    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: Pontocho & Kyoto Imperial Palace

    Kyoto in One Day: Pontocho & Kyoto Imperial Palace

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00　Meet at the hotel
    • 9:15　Pontocho
    • 9:35　Yasaka Shrine
    • 10:10　Hanamikoji Street
    • 10:40　Stroll from Kiridoshi along Tatsumi Bridge and Gion Shirakawa
    • 12:00　Go through Shijo Street to Nishiki Market.
    • Lunch, sweets, and shopping
    • 13:20　Pokemon Center
    • 13:45　Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 14:15　See off to the hotel by taxi, end of guide

    Title: What's a Private Walking Tour of Kyoto's Gion and Nishiki Market Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They mentioned they were not affected by wildfires. They wished to walk around the Gion area associated with maiko and geiko culture. From the hotel, we headed south to Pontocho. We then visited Yasaka Shrine, which presides over the Gion district. In addition to the main hall, it enshrines a variety of deities for beauty, performing arts, matchmaking, warding off illness, financial fortune, culinary skills, and academic success, which is fascinating. From Hanamikoji Street in Gion, we strolled along the beautiful walking paths of the area, including Tatsumi Bridge and along the Shirakawa stream. We then walked through the downtown area to Nishiki Market, where the guests enjoyed wagyu beef and fish dishes. After that, they also had sweets and enjoyed shopping. They suddenly said they wanted to buy Pokemon cards for their grandchildren, so I guided them to the Pokemon Center. Afterward, I gave a brief guide of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, and the tour concluded.

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

    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.

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    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
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    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
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  • 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. 8:30 Meet up @Hotel Kyoto
    • 2. 8:50 @Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 3. 10:45 @Arashiyama (Bamboo Grove・Tenryu-ji Temple)
    • 4. 11:45 @Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 5. 12:30 Lunch @Gontaro
    • 6. 14:10 @Gion Shirakawa
    • 7. 14:30 Disband @Hotel Kyoto

    What Is a Private Kyoto Tour Like with a Licensed Guide? A Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Kinkaku-ji, and Arashiyama The guests were an elderly group visiting Kyoto, and a wheelchair was arranged since long distances were difficult. The guests were very pleased and sat comfortably and happily at both Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kinkaku-ji. The wheelchair looked a little tight for one of the guests, but when I explained "It's Japanese size," they responded with a cheerful joke — "If I stay in Japan and keep eating Japanese food, my body will fit it just right!" — enjoying even the tightness. Unfortunately, wheelchairs could not be used in Arashiyama, so we walked slowly, and one of the guests playfully pretended to be disappointed, saying how nice it would be to have the wheelchair. Lunch was also very well received, and the guests ate quite a lot, telling me, "Thank you for bringing us to such a wonderful place."

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

    Tour Report by YUKA

    Hi! My name is YUKA. I’ve got the government license in 2018 and joined a half year traning to do the guide. But a half year later I started my carreer, Covid came. I should have given up guiding. During the Covid, I’ve read many books and made my own materials to explain Japanese culture, history, etc. I love guiding because the guests expand my horizon all the time and let me know their own country and culture, etc. It is really important for us all to know each other and respect each other to make this world peace. Thank you for coming to Japan! Let’s enjoy Japan together!

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