Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    December, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • The b Hotel 10.00－Asakusa 10.30～12.00－After eating in Akihabara, the 4th and 5th floors of Radio Kaikan, Animate, AKIBA Cultures ZONE 12.15～14.00, disband at Hibiya Line Akihabara Station

    Can You Do a Private Day Trip in Tokyo from Asakusa to Akihabara? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. Since I had heard it happened to be a special day for one of them, I prepared small presents for everyone. In Asakusa, the guests became interested in a sword shop. Some of the guests were surprised by the crowds along Nakamise. In Akihabara, they enthusiastically looked at and bought goods related to Godzilla and Blue Lock. For lunch, since the guests wanted to try fried chicken, we went with a reserved 2,500 yen course at a chicken restaurant in Akihabara. After returning once to the Hotel, they mentioned they were going to teamLab, so I explained the route and we parted at the entrance of the Hibiya Line.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGinza～Asakusa209JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Ueno178JPY
    Section 3TrainUeno～Akihabara146JPY
    Total533JPY

    Tour Report by Lance

    I have been working as a tour guide once a week since the autumein 2024. I got 5 star ratings from 32 individuals or groups succesively.
    Previously, I have been working with grain business for 43 years. I was sent to a subsidiary office in New Orleans for three years.
    I love Japanese history, culture and nature and want as many viaitors as possible to know the good and beautiful things about Japan. There’s a Zen teaching that I hold dear. That is ‘Ichi-go ichie’, which means ’Treasure every encounter as it may not come again’. Looking forward to see you!

    Request Booking

    Jul 4, 2026
    317roxaneh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great time in Tokyo!
    We had a great day with Lance! He…

    Jul 1, 2026
    Voyager795644
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo private family tour
    Our family of 5 (kids age 8, 10,…

    Jun 26, 2026
    Leslie_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Market, temples, Nature, and a great guide
    This tour is amazing and…

    Jun 17, 2026
    JKing275
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo
    Our guide, Lance was exceptional! He immediately contacted me…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    December, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel Tawaramachi 10.00－Imperial Palace East Gardens 10.30-11.40－Meiji Shrine 12.10-13.10－Lunch (Vegetarian) 13.20-13.50－Shibuya 14.00

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour Like for International Guests? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors currently based in North America. Everyone in the group was deeply impressed and took a great many photos throughout the day. Since explanations don't quite register while photos are being taken, I made a point of giving my explanations only after everyone had finished taking pictures at each spot. There were a few small mishaps along the way — a hat was left behind twice, and at the very end a wallet was dropped, which had me worried, but fortunately the restaurant had kept it safe. Overall, the group seemed very satisfied with the tour. We had a meal at a bistro in Harajuku, and the food was delicious and very well received.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTawaramachi～Takebashi178JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi～Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Section 3SubwayHarajuku～Shibuya146JPY
    Total533JPY

    Tour Report by Lance

    I have been working as a tour guide once a week since the autumein 2024. I got 5 star ratings from 32 individuals or groups succesively.
    Previously, I have been working with grain business for 43 years. I was sent to a subsidiary office in New Orleans for three years.
    I love Japanese history, culture and nature and want as many viaitors as possible to know the good and beautiful things about Japan. There’s a Zen teaching that I hold dear. That is ‘Ichi-go ichie’, which means ’Treasure every encounter as it may not come again’. Looking forward to see you!

    Request Booking

    Jul 4, 2026
    317roxaneh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great time in Tokyo!
    We had a great day with Lance! He…

    Jul 1, 2026
    Voyager795644
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo private family tour
    Our family of 5 (kids age 8, 10,…

    Jun 26, 2026
    Leslie_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Market, temples, Nature, and a great guide
    This tour is amazing and…

    Jun 17, 2026
    JKing275
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo
    Our guide, Lance was exceptional! He immediately contacted me…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Departure: Tochomae Station & Shinjuku Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Departure: Tochomae Station & Shinjuku Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: The Knot Tokyo, Shinjuku
    • 10:10 Departure: Tochomae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 10:40 Arrive at Tsukiji Market Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Uogashi
    • Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:00 Departure from Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 12:15 Arrive at Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • Nijubashi
    • 13:30 Departure from Nijubashi-mae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 14:00 Arrive at Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • Shinjuku Gyoen Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 15:00 Departure from Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Shinjuku-sanchome
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • 15:15 Arrive at Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Pokemon Center/Nintendo Store
    • 16:00 Departure from Shibuya Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 16:30 Arrive at Shinjuku Station
    • 16:30 Disband: Shinjuku Station

    Can You Do a Private One-Day Tsukiji, Imperial Palace, Shinjuku, and Shibuya Tour in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America, all visiting Japan for the first time. They had arrived at Narita the previous evening on a direct flight and taken the Narita Express to Shinjuku. This trip was an approximately two-week visit to Japan. They planned to stay in Tokyo for four days, then travel around Hakone, Mount Fuji, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, and Hiroshima before returning to Tokyo and heading home. They said they wanted to enjoy many different kinds of Japanese food. It was a sunny but rather chilly day for the tour. First, we went to Tsukiji. After walking around Tsukiji Uogashi, we headed to the Tsukiji Outer Market and slowly made a full loop through the area. I explained the "history of the fish market dating back to the Edo period" and the "differences between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market." They browsed shops here and there and bought matcha as a souvenir. After that, they purchased and sampled tuna sashimi, snow crab, and matcha ice cream. Everyone in the group said sushi was a favorite. We then moved to the Imperial Palace. I explained topics such as "the transition from the Edo period to the Meiji era," "the Meiji Restoration," "why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace," and "current issues facing the Imperial Family." One remark was, "The pine trees are beautiful." There were also questions such as "Does the Emperor really live inside here?", "Who will be the next Emperor?", and "What are the characteristics of Japanese gardens?" Next, at the group's strong request, we visited Shinjuku Gyoen. I explained the "history of Shinjuku Gyoen." They took photos again and again in many places, commenting, "The Japanese garden is so tasteful and wonderful," and "I would love to come back again during cherry blossom season." After this, we moved to Shibuya, where they experienced the Scramble Crossing and took photos. We also took commemorative photos in front of the Hachiko statue. Here too there was a question: "Why are there so many people? Are they mostly Japanese, or mostly tourists?" We then went to the Pokémon Center and the Nintendo Store (at the strong request of one of the guests), where they bought a large amount of Pokémon goods. There were also comments such as, "Japanese people are all so polite," "The streets are clean and there is no litter scattered around," "Why aren't there any trash cans?", "The subway is very well designed, but it is hard to understand until you get used to it," and "The public restrooms are clean and pleasant." There was also a question: "We'd like to go out to Kabukicho in Shinjuku at night — is it safe?" I saw them off at Shinjuku Station, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTochomae Station～Tsukiji Market Station272JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji Station～Otemachi Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijubashi-mae～Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwayShinjuku-gyoemmae Station～Shibuya Station178JPY
    Section 5TrainShibuya Station～Shinjuku Station167JPY
    Total973JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

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    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    December, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • １．9:00 Meet at THE KNOT TOKYO Shinjuku
    • ２．9:30 Meiji Shrine
    • ３．10:30 Omotesando and Takeshita Street
    • ４．12:00 Akihabara
    • ５．13:00 Disband at Tokyo Skytree

    What Can You See on a Half-Day Private Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests visiting from Oceania were in Japan for the first time, so we took advantage of the hotel's location and began at the north torii gate of Meiji Shrine, where they seemed fascinated by the fine wooden craftsmanship of the shrine buildings. After strolling along Takeshita Street and Omotesando, we moved on to Akihabara. At the Radio Kaikan building, they were amazed by the endless variety of figures, cards, magnets, and other goods available so efficiently in one place. To make our 1:00 entry to Tokyo Skytree, we took the JR line to Asakusabashi, transferred to the Asakusa Line, and arrived at Oshiage. We reached the spot right at 1:00 and parted ways there. It was a short tour, but they were able to see everything as planned and seemed very satisfied. At the end, they asked to take a photo together.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTochomae～Yoyogi900JPY
    Section 2Free PassMeiji-jingumae～Akihabara0JPY
    Section 3TrainAkihabara～Asakusabashi150JPY
    Section 4Free PassAsakusabashi～Oshiage0JPY
    Total1,050JPY

    Tour Report by Kei

    Born and raised in Tokyo a half-century ago, I have lived in Tokyo all my life except for one year in the UK to study for a master’s course. I am a Tokyo Native with viewpoints based on broader local knowledge than anyone else. I have specialised in Japanese history, culture, and architecture since I was an architect.
    Also, I am a foodie emphasising Japanese traditional & healthy foods. I’ve been to many countries around the world, such as the US, Central America, Europe, and Asia. As such, I believe I can anticipate the needs of foreign tourists in Japan.

    Despite my experience as a guide for just two years, we can make the best out of our tour by travelling from your hotel to spots time-efficiently with my local knowledge, while accommodating your unexpected requests during the tour.
    My strong area includes Yanesen; Old Temples in a Quaint Village, Kamakura, Asakusa Sensoji, Meiji Shrine and Imperial Palace. All give you peace of mind.

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    Oct 22, 2025
    I5562SWphilipk
    Great intro to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kei was a genial and knowledgeable host, who…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Gary H
    Great tour of Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We loved our tour! Our guide was…

    Oct 5, 2025
    C
    Cindy_S
    Had one day in Tokyo and…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Had one day in Tokyo…

    Sep 15, 2025
    chrishN2970OC
    A highly enjoyable tour of Tokyo with knowledgeable local guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:05 Meet @ The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho, a Hotel
    • 2. 09:10 Travel: Subway, Train
    • 3. 10:00 Visit @ Gotokuji Temple
    • 4. 10:40 Travel: Train, Subway
    • 5. 11:40 Visit @ Tsukiji Uogashi, Outer Market East Street
    • 6. 12:10 Lunch @ Tsukiji Sushisei Shinkan
    • 7. 13:10 Visit @ Outer Market Middle Street, West Street, Tsukiji Honganji Temple
    • 8. 13:35 Travel: Subway
    • 9. 14:00 Visit @ Nezu Shrine
    • 10. 14:40 Travel: Subway
    • 11. 15:05 Visit @ Takeshita Street
    • 12. 15:40 Travel: Subway
    • 13. 16:00 Disband @ In front of Akasaka-mitsuke Station

    What Is a 6-Hour Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Gotokuji and Tsukiji The guests arrived a little late, but since I had received specific advance information about the meeting point by email, I was able to wait without much concern. The guests were a group visiting from North America. They all spoke standard American-style English, which made communication very easy and was a great help. As this was a 6-hour tour, I first took the guests to Gotokuji Temple in line with their wishes. That day happened to be the day of the major local event known as the Setagaya Boroichi flea market, so it was very crowded, but a shop selling cat goods that is normally closed on Mondays had opened specially, so the guests, who love cats, were able to enjoy some shopping. Because we also spent a little longer at Tsukiji, we ended up running slightly over time at the end. Since some of the guests wished to stay in Harajuku, I saw one of the guests off to the area near the Hotel before we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassAkasaka-mitsuke Station～Shinjuku Station600JPY
    Section 2TrainShinjuku Station～Gotokuji Station200JPY
    Section 3TrainGotokuji Station～Yoyogi-Uehara Station170JPY
    Section 4Free PassYoyogi-Uehara Station～Tsukiji Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassTsukiji Station～Nezu Station0JPY
    Section 6Free PassNezu Station～Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
    Section 7Free PassMeiji-jingumae Station～Akasaka Station0JPY
    Total970JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

    Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
    I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
    I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
    One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
    Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
    I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    G848SWmaribelm
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
    The tour experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Cezary P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour of Tokyo!
    Sam, was outstanding! Showed…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Michael_C
    Tokyo tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a wonderful guide -…

    Jun 18, 2026
    David_W
    Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Fish Market Tour
    Great tour. Got to see…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Shibuya

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Shibuya

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    December, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet up @ Hotel
    • Shinjuku
    • 10:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:00 Takeshita Street, Omotesando
    • 12:00 Shibuya
    • 12:45 Travel Concierge
    • 13:20 Disband @ Shibuya Station

    What Is a Private Tour of Tokyo's West Side Like? Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Shibuya — A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. They asked me to guide them around the western side of Tokyo where their hotel was located, so I showed them Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Shibuya. The booking came through a local travel agency, but at an early stage the local agent arranged for me to be able to contact the guests directly, so we were able to communicate smoothly in advance. One of the guests had visited Japan about twenty years earlier and mentioned that it is much easier now because there is more English signage. One of the guests was very open and friendly and told me about school. This guest seemed to really like Takeshita Street, asked for a pair of earmuffs, and wore them throughout the rest of the tour. Since the region they come from has a warm climate, they said they did not have many winter clothes, so as they would be traveling to Nagano later, I suggested they could buy some at Uniqlo if needed. Finally, at Shibuya Station, I helped them activate their JR Pass and make Shinkansen reservations. They planned to travel to many places, so the reservations took a while and we ran over time, which the guests were considerate about. We had originally planned to return to Shinjuku, but the guests said this spot was fine, so I explained how to get back and said goodbye. They plan to travel on to Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Nagano, spend the New Year in Japan, and then return home. I hope they get to see the snow monkeys in Nagano.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Harajuku150JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku～Shibuya150JPY
    Total300JPY

    Tour Report by Yoko

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

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

    I’m looking forward to hearing from you soon.

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    December, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:35 Meet @Kyoto Station Shinkansen platform
    • 2. 10:10 @Arashiyama (Bamboo Grove・Tenryu-ji Temple)
    • 3. 11:30 @Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 4. 12:15 Lunch @Gontaro
    • 5. 13:30 @Ginkaku-ji Temple・Philosopher's Path
    • 6.15:05 Disband @Kyoto Station

    What Can You See on a Rushed Private Day Tour of Kyoto? A Licensed Guide's Report The plan was to meet on the Shinkansen platform, and the arrangement was that the guests would contact me with their train number as soon as they knew it, but when I was standing by at Kyoto Station on the day, I still had not received any word. The driver was also waiting, so it was nerve-wracking. Just after 9:00, I finally got word that they were "still on the Shinkansen." Even at that point they did not tell me the train number, so I stood by in a position from which I could dash to any platform, and simply waited for their message. At 9:20 the train number and car number were finally confirmed, and I immediately moved to the arrival platform and waited. When we successfully met, everyone burst out laughing and was overjoyed that we had finally met. It turned out that the guests were staying in Osaka and had apparently gotten lost at the subway Namba Station, which was why their arrival in Kyoto was delayed. As a result the tour became a bit rushed, but we were able to visit the requested Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji Temple, and Kinkaku-ji Temple. Since we had discussed and decided on the lunch spot in advance, the guests were very pleased with the meal and kept saying how delicious it was. When one of the guests picked up a piece of burdock from the mixed rice and asked, "What is this?" I explained, and another guest who had set aside all the burdock then ate it properly too. The tour was apparently mainly for skiing in Niseko, and Kyoto was an add-on. One of the four did not show up, so it was a tour for three. It seemed the guests were fonder of Osaka, as they headed straight back to Osaka after the tour. I guided them to the Shinkansen entrance gate and we parted ways. I believe they enjoyed themselves.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherKyoto～Kyoto140JPY
    Total140JPY

    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!

    Request Booking

    Jul 25, 2026
    Ann W
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Early Morning Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    One of the highlights of my trip, perfect for solo…

    Jul 14, 2026
    Elizabeth W
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour, Licensed Guide
    Great tour
    We had a great tour with…

    Jul 11, 2026
    Dianna-fam
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Wonderful Tour, Wonderful Guide!
    My teenage boys and I…

    Jul 1, 2026
    Christian_L
    Viator review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kyoto visite with Yuka : Wow !
    Wow ! Yuka was…

  • Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Umeda (Meet at hotel) – 09:45 Osaka Castle – 12:15 Tenroku (Osaka Museum of Housing and Living ⇒ Closed on Tuesday) –
    • 12:30 – Lunch (Negiyaki Teppan Itsukushima) – 13:40 Tekijuku (Kitahama) – 14:40 Dotonbori (Hozenji Mizukake Fudo – Kuidaore Clown – Below Kani Doraku Main Store – Glico Sign above Ebisu Bridge)
    • – 15:30 Dismissal: Shinsaibashi-suji Entrance

    What's a Private Day Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Tekijuku, and Dotonbori The guests were a family from Oceania, all visiting Japan for the first time. Some of the guests were big fans of Japan, particularly interested in anime and its rich food culture, while the others had long been drawn to Japan's history, culture, cuisine, and its clean and safe society. They chose to visit at this time, coinciding with a school break and just before Christmas. The guests live in a home set on a large plot of land, where flowers are grown for sale. As some of the guests are involved in construction work, they admired the magnificent stone walls of Osaka Castle and the large merchant-style architecture of the Tekijuku house. Everyone also thoroughly enjoyed the okonomiyaki lunch I recommended as an Osaka specialty, and they finished every bite. As tomorrow's plan, I recommended a day trip to Nara, and I provided guidance with a handwritten note explaining how to transfer between the subway and the Kintetsu line. Due to time constraints, after taking photos in front of the Glico sign in Dotonbori, we exchanged smiles and handshakes at the entrance to Shinsaibashi and said our goodbyes.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOsaka Metro, Umeda～Tanimachi 4-chome820JPY
    Section 2Free PassOsaka Business Park～Tenjinbashisuji 6-chome0JPY
    Section 3Free PassOgimachi～Namba0JPY
    Section 4Free PassShinsaibashi～Umeda0JPY
    Total820JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    Born, raised and married in Kyoto, I am Masaaki Tanaka started English-speaking licensed guide since 2008, guiding mostly those English-speaking inbound tourists in Kyoto, which is my home base, and in Osaka (where I woked so long time until my retirment) and Nara and in other Kansai areas incl. Kobe, Koyasan, etc. If allowed, I can say I am somewhat experinced in Japanese history (especially in its culture). When young, I lived and worked for some 11 years in the Middle East, which areas, accordingly, I am still quite familiar to . My hobby includes : seeing Noh Play and Kabuki, hearing Musics in general (Beethoven, Beatles, Jazz & Rock’n Rolls as well as Japanese classicals), seeing the paintings/artworks in general, playing the piano (all time at beginner’s level, though), playing the guitar and, when younger, I enjoyed skiing and business golf. Also, I am, since my childhoo, a great fan of Tigers in Japan’s pro-base ball. I love cats (keeping now an old female ‘Chee’ chan) , and certainly my wife Tokuko as well.

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    Jul 30, 2026
    amydJ3030YT
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    Masaaki Tanaka was the best tour guide ever!
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  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Himeji Honmachi Shopping Street & Egret Himeji

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Himeji Honmachi Shopping Street & Egret Himeji

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    December, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ JR Himeji Station
    • 10:15 @ Himeji Honmachi Shopping Street
    • 10:45 @ Himeji Castle
    • 12:45 @ Koko-en Garden
    • 13:30 @ Egret Himeji
    • 13:45 Disband @ Food court inside JR Himeji Station

    What Is a Private Himeji Castle Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe, and everything went smoothly. They especially wished to explore Himeji Castle at a leisurely pace, and today the castle had few visitors, so we were able to take our time. They seemed highly interested, viewing everything with great enthusiasm and taking many photographs. Before visiting Himeji Castle, we stopped at a shop popular for its handmade lucky-cat figurines, where they took an interest and purchased souvenirs. At Koko-en Garden, they appeared very pleased to see the beautiful autumn foliage. As they were a little hungry, they ordered "Akashi-style takoyaki" (takoyaki eaten with broth) recommended by the guide at the food court inside JR Himeji Station, after which we parted ways. This was my first time guiding guests from Europe, and I heard many stories about their home region, which I found very interesting. Note) One thing I noticed this time: among the places listed in the "What to expect" list, "Egret Himeji" currently seems to have had more than half of its shops close, and the rooftop beer garden is also currently closed. However, the view of Himeji Castle from the rooftop is as splendid as described in the list, and the guests I have shown it to have been 100% delighted.

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

    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

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    Jul 25, 2026
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    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…

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

    Nagoya / Aichi Full-day Private Custom Tour with National

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

    December, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. Meet at 10:00 @ Hotel Lobby
    • 2. Travel to Nagoya Castle by private vehicle, use private vehicle for the rest of the day, tour Nagoya Castle Honmaru Palace and the area around the castle tower
    • 3. Lunch at Yabaton Kinshachi Yokocho branch
    • 4. Travel to Atsuta Shrine, tour Atsuta Shrine main hall, Kokoro no Komichi, Kusanagi-kan, etc.
    • 5. Travel to Osu Shopping District, tour Osu Kannon and Osu Shopping Arcade
    • 6. Travel to central Nagoya, tour the rooftop of Oasis 21 (Spaceship Aqua)
    • 7. Return to Hotel and disband at 16:00

    What Is a Private One-Day Nagoya Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report On this day, many facilities such as Japanese gardens and art museums were closed, but it was the guests' first sightseeing visit to Nagoya, so we smoothly toured its representative sites in order — Nagoya Castle, Atsuta Shrine, Osu Shopping Street, and Oasis 21 in Sakae — using a chartered vehicle, which they enjoyed very much. The group were experienced Japan travelers, visiting Japan for sightseeing for the sixth time. I guided them to nationally renowned sites such as Nagoya Castle and Atsuta Shrine, and they thoroughly enjoyed the eclectic mix of cultures at Osu Shopping Street (pop culture, subculture, and ethnic influences). Finally, they enjoyed the view from the rooftop of Oasis 21, where they could take in the sight of Mirai Tower, a landmark of Nagoya, making for a full and enjoyable one-day guided tour.

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

    Tour Report by Todd

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

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    Feb 16, 2026
    B9190RXcolleenm
    The Nagoya walking tour was great!
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    Jul 22, 2025
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    We enjoyed this tour with a knowledgeable guide. Todd shared…