Category: Uncategorized

  • Kagawa in One Day: ベネッセハウス パークロビー【集合】 & 宮浦港【解散】

    Kagawa in One Day: ベネッセハウス パークロビー【集合】 & 宮浦港【解散】

    Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 ベネッセハウス パークロビー【集合】
    • 「黄かぼちゃ」を見学
    • 10:02 ベネッセハウス パークバス停
    • ベネッセハウス無料送迎バスにて
    • 10:09 地中美術館バス停
    • 10:15～11:15 地中美術館
    • 徒歩
    • 11:30～12:15 李禹煥美術館・ヴァレーギャラリー
    • 徒歩
    • 12:30～ 14:20 ベネッセハウス ミュージアム・屋外作品
    • 徒歩
    • 14:32 ベネッセハウス パークバス停（お荷物をお受け取りください）
    • ベネッセハウス無料送迎バスにて
    • 14:37 直島（本村）港桟橋バス停（本村ラウンジ＆アーカイブまでお荷物をお運びください）
    • 徒歩
    • 14:45 本村ラウンジ＆アーカイブ（お荷物をお預けください）
    • 14:45～15:50 家プロジェクト複数（「角屋」「護王神社」「石橋」「碁会所」「はいしゃ」）
    • 16:00 本村ラウンジ＆アーカイブ（お荷物をお受け取りください）
    • 16:14 直島（本村）港桟橋バス停
    • 　 ベネッセハウス無料送迎バスにて
    • 16:21 宮浦港バス停
    • 16:25 宮浦港【解散】

    What Is a Private Guided Day Tour of Naoshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report This was a guided tour on Naoshima for guests visiting from North America. Their trip to Japan took place in May, during which they traveled to Tokyo, Okinawa, Naoshima, and Osaka. They had visited Japan several times before, and each time they explored one new place, choosing Naoshima this time. They had selected Naoshima based on a recommendation from a friend. Because they wanted to see as much of Naoshima as possible, we skipped lunch, so it was a little tiring, but we were able to complete the itinerary as planned. The weather was favorable, and the guests appeared to enjoy a full day on Naoshima.

    Click here for more details: Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Kaji

    Hello. My name is Hisao Kaji. I was born in 1945. I was raised in Takamatsu City from 3 years old. So, I have been living in Takamatsu for around 75 years. I believe I know Takamatsu City and the Kagawa prefecture area very well. If you come to Takamatsu, Kagawa I think you can enjoy your tour with me. I started a Government Licensed Guide in 2019. So, I have been a licensed guide for about 5 years. My favorite destinations are Naoshima, Teshima, Ritsurin Garden, the top of Mt. Yashima and so on. I always show you an itinerary about one month before your tour date, and I will accept any questions, other favorite places you want to visit. Communicating with you, I would like to accommodate your request for your tour. I always listen to NPR on the internet to know how the world is moving and improve my English. I like conversation based upon it with my life. I stayed in the USA for 8 months for a Power Systems Engineering Course conducted by General Electric in New York State when I was 28 years old. I sometimes talk about my memory of those days with the guests. I am very happy to guide tourists because I can see the guests become happy and enjoy themselves when I am guiding better. Nothing is more wonderful than that. I welcome your visit to Takamatsu City and Kagawa Prefecture. I believe you will have a pleasant time through my guide.

    Request Booking

    Apr 19, 2026
    2Pippin2
    Tripadvisor review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A day to remember
    Perfect day! Our tour guide, Kaji,
    added so…

    Oct 23, 2025
    C
    Calli_C
    This was a great day tour…
    Viator review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was a great day…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Vanessa_A
    Lovely day on Naoshima Island
    Viator review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    It was great to relax and leave…

    Jun 1, 2025
    Pamela_F
    Highly recommend the half…
    Viator review: Okayama Half-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Highly recommend the half day tour and our…

  • Tokyo: Observe the tuna auction & Tsukiji

    Tokyo: Observe the tuna auction & Tsukiji

    Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 05:00 Meet in front of the main gate of Toyosu Market
    • 05:00-05:30 Explanation of related information such as tuna catching methods, how the auction proceeds, collection methods, and the roles of primary wholesalers and intermediate wholesalers in advance
    • 05:30-06:00 Observe the tuna auction
    • 06:00-07:00 Sushi breakfast at a sushi restaurant inside Toyosu Market
    • 07:00-07:15 Move to Tsukiji
    • 07:15-08:00 Stroll through the Tsukiji inner market
    • 08:00 Disband at Tsukiji

    What Is a Private Tsukiji Market and Tuna Auction Food Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. They shared that they were so passionate about food that they described eating as one of their greatest joys. During the tuna auction viewing, they were amazed that a single tuna was sold in under five seconds. Watching the buyers seriously inspecting the quality of the tuna before the auction began, one of the guests suggested, "Let's each guess which tuna in this row will fetch the highest price." The three of us each picked a tuna and watched as the auction proceeded. In the end, the tuna chosen by one of the guests fetched the highest price in that row, and the three of us were thrilled. The sushi breakfast was what the guests had been looking forward to the most. They enjoyed an all-tuna course and savored the different flavors of each cut. They were especially impressed by the deep flavor of the lean red meat, saying that the lean tuna they had eaten in North America had been bland, and that "I used to think lean tuna wasn't tasty, but this has changed my mind." At Tsukiji, after enjoying hand-rolled sushi with sea urchin and tuna, fresh oysters from Akkeshi, and strawberry daifuku, they bought some "Tochiotome" strawberries at a greengrocer and enjoyed strolling around while snacking on the strawberries.

    Click here for more details: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusToyosu Market／Toei Bus～Tsukiji 6-chome／Toei Bus210JPY
    Total210JPY

    Tour Report by Toru

    Hello, I am Toru, a certified National Guide. I have been guiding since 2017, primarily in the Tokyo area, which includes Hakone, Kamakura, and Yokohama. To make your stay in Japan unforgettable, I always discuss a tour plan with my guests via email before their arrival. Please share your preferences, including the places you’d like to visit and the experiences you’d like to try during your stay in Tokyo. If this is your first visit to Japan, I’m excited to help make your time in Tokyo even more enjoyable by suggesting sample itineraries and offering travel tips.

    For more information about me, please visit my profile site.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/hello-welcome-to-japan/
    For your reference, please feel free to visit my blog, which features popular sightseeing spots and interesting experiences.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/

    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Request Booking

    July 2, 2026
    David S
    Tripadvisor : Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Incredible experience at the Markets!
    Toru…

    Jun 6, 2026
    meltemg957
    Unique experience with a highly knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

    Jun 4, 2026
    bluejerky1
    Turo was knowledgeable and the tour was fun and fun and informative. Highly recommend.
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction…

    May 29, 2026
    Eva P
    Fabulous experience with Toru!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Toru was…

  • Tokyo: Watch the tuna auction & Tsukiji

    Tokyo: Watch the tuna auction & Tsukiji

    Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 05:00 Meet in front of the main gate of Toyosu Market
    • 05:00-05:30 Explanation of related information such as tuna catching methods, how the auction proceeds, collection methods, and the roles of primary wholesalers and intermediate wholesalers
    • 05:30-06:00 Watch the tuna auction
    • 06:00-07:00 Sushi breakfast at a sushi restaurant inside Toyosu Market
    • 07:00-07:15 Move to Tsukiji
    • 07:15-08:00 Stroll through the Tsukiji inner market
    • 08:00 Disband at Tsukiji

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who had been very much looking forward to seeing the tuna auction. When I explained how the tuna auction works, including the hand-signal bidding, how the winning bid is determined, and the overall procedure, they showed great interest in the auction system and observed closely to see which intermediate wholesaler would make the highest bid. When the auction reached its midpoint, all three of us, including myself, each made a guess at the winning bid and played a game to see who could predict the price most accurately, which was a lot of fun. After the auction viewing, for a sushi breakfast the guests ordered a "tuna assortment" and an "omakase" course, sharing them and enjoying the different flavors of each cut of tuna as well as the fresh sushi toppings that had been procured just that morning. They were both very satisfied with the sushi made by the head chef, who has over 30 years of experience, and after the meal they happily took photos with him, all smiles. At the Tsukiji Outer Market, they enjoyed a taste comparison of raw oysters from Akkeshi and from Hirota Bay in Iwate Prefecture. They were delighted that the Hirota Bay oysters were very large with a deep flavor, while the Akkeshi oysters were a bit smaller but had a lot of sweetness.

    Click here for more details: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusToyosu Market／Toei Bus～Tsukiji 6-chome／Toei Bus210JPY
    Total210JPY

    Tour Report by Toru

    Hello, I am Toru, a certified National Guide. I have been guiding since 2017, primarily in the Tokyo area, which includes Hakone, Kamakura, and Yokohama. To make your stay in Japan unforgettable, I always discuss a tour plan with my guests via email before their arrival. Please share your preferences, including the places you’d like to visit and the experiences you’d like to try during your stay in Tokyo. If this is your first visit to Japan, I’m excited to help make your time in Tokyo even more enjoyable by suggesting sample itineraries and offering travel tips.

    For more information about me, please visit my profile site.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/hello-welcome-to-japan/
    For your reference, please feel free to visit my blog, which features popular sightseeing spots and interesting experiences.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/

    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Request Booking

    July 2, 2026
    David S
    Tripadvisor : Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Incredible experience at the Markets!
    Toru…

    Jun 6, 2026
    meltemg957
    Unique experience with a highly knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

    Jun 4, 2026
    bluejerky1
    Turo was knowledgeable and the tour was fun and fun and informative. Highly recommend.
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction…

    May 29, 2026
    Eva P
    Fabulous experience with Toru!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Toru was…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Arashiyama

    Kyoto in One Day: Arashiyama

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at Gracery Sanjo
    • 9:00 Nijo Castle (Nijo Castle → Kinkaku-ji, travel by taxi)
    • 10:30 Kinkaku-ji (Kinkaku-ji → Bamboo Grove, travel by taxi)
    • 12:00 Arashiyama
    • 13:00 Lunch at Arashiyama
    • 14:30 Finish at Kawaramachi

    What Is a Private Pottery-Focused Tour in Kanazawa, Nagoya, and Tamba-Sasayama Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. They were very fond of pottery, so they toured well-known pottery-producing areas such as Kanazawa, Nagoya (Seto and Tokoname), and Tamba-Sasayama. They had purchased more than 20 kilograms of pottery and asked me about shipping it home by mail. Photography was also one of their interests, so I made sure to allow time for taking photos. Since I guided them to enjoy tofu dishes and soba, they had an enjoyable dining experience. As they wished to finish the tour near their accommodation, we concluded at Kawaramachi.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto City Hall Front～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 2TrainArashiyama (Hankyu Line)～Kyoto Kawaramachi240JPY
    Total460JPY

    Tour Report by Kuni

    Hi I am Kunihiro ARAKAWA, National government licensed tour guide.
    Please call me first name Kuni.
    My original city is Nagoya, but I lived in Tokyo for 20 years,
    and also lived in London and Paris for work.
    Now I live in Kyoto city. I moved here because I love Kyoto.
    I like taking photos and also sell my own photos on website.
    I’d love to take memorable photos for you at great photo spots.
    I also like history and gourmet food.
    I’d love to introduce some local recommendations.
    I’ll ask your request and create your special tour.
    Please feel free to let us know your thoughts.
    Looking forward to meeting you !

    Kuni

    Request Booking

    Jul 18, 2026
    M2443VKandrewl
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Excellent guide and support
    Kuni-san was an excellent guide and…

    Jun 9, 2026
    Gail M
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Kyoto Sights; Private Guide & Driver
    The…

    Jun 5, 2026
    Rick_S
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    An afternoon in Kyoto
    We had a great time exploring Kyoto. Our…

    May 16, 2026
    sydneybA4751LA
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 private tour of Kyoto!
    Kuni was amazing as our private tour…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Yugen Kyoto Shijo & Kiyomizu-dera

    Kyoto in One Day: Yugen Kyoto Shijo & Kiyomizu-dera

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Yugen Kyoto Shijo
    • 9:30 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 11:15 Fushimi Inari
    • 12:45 Sanjusangendo
    • 13:45 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 15:00 Disband at Kiyomizu-dera

    What Is a 6-Hour Private Walking Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America. Although the weather had been a concern, there was no rain and it was not too hot, making it an ideal day for sightseeing. The Kyoto Imperial Palace had few visitors, and despite being located in the middle of the city, it is a comfortable spot where you can avoid the crowds. The Japanese garden was also beautiful with azaleas in bloom at this time of year. At Sanjusangendo, the guests were able to view the Kannon statues at a leisurely pace and were impressed by the intricate carving techniques. Since it was a 6-hour walking tour, one of the guests began to feel a little tired after about four hours, so we took a short break on a bench in the Japanese garden of Sanjusangendo, enjoying the view of the azaleas and the fresh green maple leaves. After regaining their energy, we headed to Kiyomizu-dera Temple. In addition to the beautiful scenery, when I took them to sample nama yatsuhashi, they liked it so much that they purchased four packs. As they wished to do some shopping, we parted ways along the approach to the temple.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShijo (Kyoto Municipal)～Imadegawa260JPY
    Section 2SubwayImadegawa～Kyoto260JPY
    Section 3TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 4TrainFushimi Inari～Shichijo180JPY
    Section 5TrainMuseum Sanjusangendo-mae / Kyoto Bus～Kiyomizu-michi / Kyoto Bus230JPY
    Total1,080JPY

    Tour Report by Naoki

    I am Naoki Nakatani. I live in Osaka.
    I started tour guide from 2023 after 40 years
    work experience in Japanese manufacturing company. I am currently teaching Japanese as volunteer staff to foreign residents who live in my community. I have 11 and half years work experience in overseas office and I had interacted with people of foreign countries for a long time enjoying business and friendship with them. My guide experience is still short but I will provide my best service to the guests. I am in a position to prepare the itinerary if guests request and to send any information for the guest to make plan before visit to Japan.

    Request Booking

    Jul 11, 2026
    Trevor_F
    Viator review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    4 hour Private Tour
    Naomi was our guide and did a…

    Jun 6, 2026
    May_O
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful time in Kyoto
    We had a terrific time with Naoki. He…

    May 1, 2026
    Sanfrancisco820
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Choose Naoki – you will have a great day!!
    Naoki is an…

    Mar 28, 2026
    Tanya_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great guide
    Naoki was very kind and knowledgeable He knew the best…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Himeji Station & Kokoen Garden

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Himeji Station & Kokoen Garden

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Himeji Station
    • 12:40-14:15 Himeji Castle
    • 14:30-15:30 Kokoen Garden
    • 15:35 Himeji Station
    • 16:00 finish the tour

    What Is a Private Himeji Castle and Koko-en Garden Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America, and enjoyed photography, taking wonderful pictures throughout the tour. On the way to Himeji Castle, they enjoyed shopping, buying tea and a bag, which shortened our available time, so we toured the interior of Himeji Castle in about an hour before heading to Koko-en Garden. Although we were short on time and had to see things quickly, they were very moved and took many photographs. I introduced them to mame daifuku at a local shop, and we returned to Himeji Station by taxi. I had planned to help them change their tickets, but as many people were waiting, we gave up on that and I guided them to the entrance of the bullet train, ending the tour.

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

    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.

    Request Booking

    Jul 11, 2026
    Rahul_P
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Private Tour
    Highly recommended if looking for a comfortable tour…

    Jul 7, 2026
    782MarkS782
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Harumi and Kyoto
    This was amazing – truly memory making. Harumi is…

    Jun 25, 2026
    JenCBear
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great visit with a great guide Harumi
    Harumi was a fantastic guide…

    Jun 21, 2026
    Andrew_M
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Amazing guided experience
    Harumi is an amazing guide.…

  • Kagawa in One Day: Miyanoura Port Bus Stop

    Kagawa in One Day: Miyanoura Port Bus Stop

    Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:03 Miyanoura Port Bus Stop [Meet]
    • 09:06 Miyanoura Port Bus Stop
    • by town bus
    • 09:19 Tsutsujiso Bus Stop
    • visit “Yellow Pumpkin”
    • 10:05 Tsutsujiso Bus Stop
    • by Benesse shuttle bus
    • 10:12 Chichu Art Museum Bus Stop
    • 10:15~11:25 Chichu Art Museum
    • 11:35 Chichu Art Museum Bus Stop
    • by Benesse shuttle bus
    • 11:39 Benesse House Museum Bus Stop
    • 11:45~13:45 Benesse House Museum (including lunch) & Outdoor Artworks
    • on foot
    • 13:54 Tsutsujiso Bus Stop
    • by town bus
    • 13:58 Momoyama Bus Stop
    • 14:10~15:10 Naoshima New Museum of Art
    • 15:20~15:45 Art House Project (Gokaisho, Kadoya)
    • 15:56 Nokyomae Bus Stop
    • by town bus
    • 16:03 Miyanoura Port Bus Stop
    • visit “Red Pumpkin”
    • 16:20 Miyanoura Port [Say goodbye]

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Naoshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided the guests visiting from Oceania. Their stay in Japan ran from early May to late May, and they were traveling from Osaka to the Kumano Kodo, then Okayama, Naoshima, Hiroshima, Kobe, Kyoto, and Tokyo. Some of the guests had visited Japan a few times before, while it was a first visit for others. This time they had walked the Kumano Kodo over several days, and they were strong walkers. They had also visited the gardens of Giverny, home of Monet's house, and were deeply moved by the Monet paintings at the Chichu Art Museum. The guests were very warm-hearted, and it was a pleasure to guide them. They loved the beauty of the Seto Inland Sea, and said they would definitely like to come back to visit Teshima, next to Naoshima, and Takamatsu, both of which were visible during the tour. The weather was fine, and I believe they thoroughly enjoyed their day on Naoshima.

    Click here for more details: Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusMiyanoura Port／Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture～Tsutsujiso／Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture100JPY
    Section 2BusTsutsujiso／Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture～Momoyama／Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture100JPY
    Section 3BusNokyomae／Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture～Miyanoura Port／Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture100JPY
    Total300JPY

    Tour Report by Kaji

    Hello. My name is Hisao Kaji. I was born in 1945. I was raised in Takamatsu City from 3 years old. So, I have been living in Takamatsu for around 75 years. I believe I know Takamatsu City and the Kagawa prefecture area very well. If you come to Takamatsu, Kagawa I think you can enjoy your tour with me. I started a Government Licensed Guide in 2019. So, I have been a licensed guide for about 5 years. My favorite destinations are Naoshima, Teshima, Ritsurin Garden, the top of Mt. Yashima and so on. I always show you an itinerary about one month before your tour date, and I will accept any questions, other favorite places you want to visit. Communicating with you, I would like to accommodate your request for your tour. I always listen to NPR on the internet to know how the world is moving and improve my English. I like conversation based upon it with my life. I stayed in the USA for 8 months for a Power Systems Engineering Course conducted by General Electric in New York State when I was 28 years old. I sometimes talk about my memory of those days with the guests. I am very happy to guide tourists because I can see the guests become happy and enjoy themselves when I am guiding better. Nothing is more wonderful than that. I welcome your visit to Takamatsu City and Kagawa Prefecture. I believe you will have a pleasant time through my guide.

    Request Booking

    Apr 19, 2026
    2Pippin2
    Tripadvisor review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A day to remember
    Perfect day! Our tour guide, Kaji,
    added so…

    Oct 23, 2025
    C
    Calli_C
    This was a great day tour…
    Viator review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was a great day…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Vanessa_A
    Lovely day on Naoshima Island
    Viator review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    It was great to relax and leave…

    Jun 1, 2025
    Pamela_F
    Highly recommend the half…
    Viator review: Okayama Half-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Highly recommend the half day tour and our…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Stroll around Lake Chuzenji

    Tochigi in One Day: Stroll around Lake Chuzenji

    Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 　　　 Meet the guests at Tobu Nikko Station
    • 08:35~09:20　Transfer by bus to Chuzenji Onsen
    • 09:20~09:25　Stroll around Lake Chuzenji
    • 09:30~09:50 Sightseeing at Kegon Falls
    • 10:00~10:30　Transfer by bus to the World Heritage area
    • 10:40~12:40　Sightseeing at Toshogu Shrine
    • 12:45~13:30　Lunch
    • 13:30~13:50　Sightseeing at Rinnoji Temple
    • 13:50~14:10　Sightseeing at Taiyuin
    • 14:10~14:20　Sightseeing at Futarasan Shrine
    • 14:20~14:30　Transfer by bus to Tobu Nikko Station
    • 14:30　　　　Tour ends at Tobu Nikko Station

    What Can You See on a 6-Hour Private Nikko Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests wished to visit Kegon Falls in the Chuzenji area as well as Toshogu Shrine and Rinnoji Temple in the World Heritage area, all within a 6-hour tour, so although it was tight on time, we were able to visit all of these sights. To use as much time as possible for sightseeing, I planned everything carefully, including bus schedules. Since this had been agreed upon with the guests in advance, everything proceeded smoothly and according to plan. The guests' return train time had already been fixed, so I kept the tour strictly on schedule, and they made their return train with time to spare. It is quite understandable that anyone who comes to Nikko would want to see both Kegon Falls and Toshogu Shrine. For this reason, the guests were very pleased with the careful planning and with being able to visit all of their desired destinations. I am sure it became an unforgettable day for the guests.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTobu Nikko Station～Chuzenji Onsen Station2,300JPY
    Section 2Free PassChuzenji Onsen Station～Shinkyo0JPY
    Section 3Free PassFutarasan Shrine～Tobu Nikko Station0JPY
    Total2,300JPY

    Tour Report by Taka

    I am a licensed guide based in the Nikko area of Tochigi Prefecture, with a passion for sharing the depth and beauty of this remarkable region.
    In particular, I take great pride in introducing the magnificent World Heritage area, home to Toshogu Shrine, Futarasan Shrine, Rinnoji Temple, and the iconic Shinkyo Bridge. The rich history, spiritual atmosphere, and masterful craftsmanship found there are truly inspiring.
    But Nikko has much more to offer beyond the World Heritage zone. The region is uniquely spread across three different elevation zones: the central town area, the Lake Chuzenji area at higher altitude, and the remote Yumoto Onsen area in the mountains. Each of these areas offers a different charm—from historic sites and sacred spaces to scenic lakes, waterfalls, and hot springs.
    However, due to the area’s wide geography, limited public transit options, and seasonal congestion, even navigating efficiently within a single area can be challenging without local knowledge.
    That’s why local expertise is essential. With in-depth knowledge of Nikko’s layout, transportation network, and crowd patterns, I help my guests make the most of their time, while focusing on the area that suits their interests best.
    I don’t just recite what’s written in guidebooks—I offer deeper insights rooted in Japanese history, religion, and culture. From the legacy of Tokugawa Ieyasu to the spiritual symbolism behind shrine architecture, I aim to provide meaningful and memorable experiences.
    If you’re looking to discover the real Nikko, from its iconic landmarks to hidden gems, I’d be honored to guide you.

    Request Booking

    Jul 27, 2026
    Onno_P2000
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Very interesting and joyful day trip with Taka
    We…

    Jun 30, 2026
    Rolando_A
    Viator review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A fantastic day!
    We had an amazing day. Our guide was Taka.…

    Jun 25, 2026
    N8851CTrebeccaf
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We cannot recommend Taka highly…

    Jun 21, 2026
    kevin L
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing personal tour where you get to choose or have a…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hale Temari Kyoto Gosho8:30→Kinkaku-ji Temple9:30→Sanjusangendo11:30→Gion12:30

    What Can You See on a Private Day Tour of Kyoto? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji and Sanjusangendo The guests were visitors from Europe. I was unsure what the meeting point, Hale Temari Kyoto Gosho, actually was. It may have been a former private lodging; there was map information, but there was no sign or anything at the actual location. The guests seemed to be staying near Nishiki Market, and they had apparently spent more than 30 minutes searching for the place, arriving with puzzled looks on their faces. I had originally considered visiting Fushimi Inari, but since the guests planned to go there on their own early in the morning on another day to avoid the crowds, we went to Kinkaku-ji and Sanjusangendo instead. The guests enjoyed both Kinkaku-ji and Sanjusangendo, but they were surprised that there happened to be a great many school excursion groups at both sites today.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHorikawa Nakadachiuri／Kyoto City Bus～Nijo Station-mae／Kyoto City Bus450JPY
    Section 2TrainNijojo-mae～Nijo220JPY
    Section 3TrainNijo～Enmachi150JPY
    Section 4BusNishinokyo Enmachi (JR Enmachi Station)／Kyoto City Bus～Kinkaku-ji-michi／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 5BusKinkaku-ji-michi／Kyoto City Bus～Shijo Keihan-mae／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 6BusShijo Keihan-mae／Kyoto City Bus～Museum Sanjusangendo-mae／Kyoto City Bus410JPY
    Section 7BusMuseum Sanjusangendo-mae／Kyoto City Bus～Gion／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total1,920JPY

    Tour Report by Taka

    Hello, my name is Taka Sakai.
    I was born and brought up in Osaka until I graduated college.
    I worked for a chemical company for more than 30 years and was in charge of overseas marketing.
    There was also an opportunity to be assigned to the subsidiary in the US.
    I experienced a lot, traveled a lot both on business and my own during that time.
    I have been conducting tours as the certified guide mainly in the Kansai Area since 2017.
    Thank you very much for your interest in Japan.
    It is a great honor for me that I can accompany and support your new experiences here.
    I look forward to seeing you then.

    Thank you

    Taka Sakai

    Request Booking

    May 13, 2026
    Alice_o
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Perfect Day in Kyoto.
    We had a perfect day in Kyoto.…

    May 1, 2026
    Don_W
    Viator review: Kobe 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Awesome to explore new countries
    We toured the gardens, temples and the…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Abha_N
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing guide
    We had an exceptional experience with our private guided tour…

    Mar 30, 2026
    reneferraris2001
    Tripadvisor review: Private Nara Tour with Government Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Osaka Departure)
    Nara experience
    We had a great experience on…

  • Niigata in One Day: Shibata Castle & Niigata East Port

    Niigata in One Day: Shibata Castle & Niigata East Port

    Niigata Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30　　　　 Meet at Niigata East Port
    • 9:45-10:45　　 Visit the Ninomiya family's limited-access rose garden and Japanese garden in Seiro Town
    • 11:00-11:20　　Shibata Castle
    • 11:30-12:20　　Lunch at "Kuidokoro Satomi" in Shibata City
    • 12:30-13:00　　Omon Sake Brewery, Suwa Shrine
    • 13:30-14:30　　Foot bath and shopping at Tsukioka Onsen
    • 14:45-15:10　　Shopping at a home improvement store near Toyosaka Interchange
    • 15:30　　　　 Niigata East Port

    Title: What Is a Private Rainy-Day Tour of Niigata Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nikoen, Tsukioka Onsen, and Local Shopping The guests were a group visiting from North America. They toured the itinerary together in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Unfortunately, the day was marked by heavy rain. Our first stop, the "Ninomiya Residence," is a mansion open to the public only during this season, and its rose garden was wonderful, but the footing was so poor that everyone's shoes got completely soaked, which I felt bad about. However, the guests remained very positive and never showed any displeasure, which was a great relief to me. At first they mentioned they were not particularly interested in lunch, but partly to take shelter from the rain, we went into a restaurant. Since the menu had photos, they enjoyed the process of choosing their dishes from the start. They happily ate a lot, saying that Niigata's white rice was delicious, which made me glad as well. At Tsukioka Onsen, they enjoyed a free footbath. However, aside from the footbath, many shops were closed and there was not much to see, so we wrapped up Tsukioka Onsen early and asked the driver to stop by a home improvement store. They were captivated by the many flower seedlings on display. There was also a 100-yen shop inside, and after enjoying a leisurely stroll, they purchased a large number of brush pens. Apparently brush pens are hard to find where they live. (For my part, I was surprised at how well they managed to find the brush pens among so many products.) Work in Niigata often comes in by email, but since I commute from Tokyo it takes time, and as I always mention, the transportation costs are at my own expense, so I cannot take on very many of these assignments. That said, I have gradually become a familiar face with the local taxi drivers, and we have come to be able to work through the itinerary with a smooth, intuitive understanding of each other. Going forward, even if only little by little, I would like to continue taking on these assignments even while commuting from Tokyo. I look forward to working with you in the future.

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

    Tour Report by KAYOKO

    Hello. I’m Kayoko. I’m registered as a National Licensed Guide Interpreter by Tokyo Metropolitan City Government.
    I had been living in Yamagata City, 400 kilometers north up to Tokyo for 1 and 3 months, and now just have come back to Tokyo. I really enjoyed living in Yamagata.
    My hobby is horse riding and playing some musical instruments such as piano, clarinet, euphonium and tuba.
    Thanks to my riding experience, I had a special opportunity to do volunteer works at 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games in the equestrian venue in Tokyo.
    I am also a certified kimono instructor and can help you dress in the traditional Japanese kimono.
    I’m really looking forward to meeting you.

    Request Booking

    May 28, 2025
    X3079KNdeans
    Sado Island Experience
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Sado Island was a beautiful place with many attractions and sites to see.…