Category: Uncategorized

  • Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:15 Meet at Nara Station
    • 2. 10:30 Guide through Kofuku-ji Temple
    • 3. 11:00 Stroll through Nara Park
    • 4. 12:00 Guide through Nandaimon Gate
    • 5. 12:30 Guide through the Great Buddha Hall
    • 6. 13:30 Lunch at Azekura
    • 7. 14:30 Mt. Wakakusa
    • 8. 15:30 Guide through Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 9. 16:15 Disband at Nara National Museum bus stop

    Title: What's a Private Nara Day Tour with a Licensed Guide Like? A Guide's Report I met the group from North America at Nara Station and discussed the day's itinerary, but they said, "We'll leave everything up to you, our guide." So I proposed a route of Kofuku-ji Temple, Nara Park, Todai-ji Temple, Mount Wakakusa, and Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and we set off sightseeing. The guests were visiting Japan for the first time, except for one member of the group. Since some of the guests were young, I decided to guide them through Nara from a child's perspective so they wouldn't get bored. At Kofuku-ji, I explained the Nanendo Hall, and then we slowly moved through the park behind the temple grounds, where they enjoyed feeding and playing with the deer, which delighted them greatly. Strolling through the vast park in this way, we made our way to Todai-ji Temple, passing through the Nandaimon Gate and entering the Great Buddha Hall. They were overwhelmed by its size and atmosphere, so I explained the teachings of Buddhism there. One of the guests had knowledge of Japanese culture and Buddhism and showed interest in the concept of reincarnation. After Todai-ji, it was lunchtime, so we had lunch at a restaurant below Nigatsu-do Hall. After giving them some time to rest and relax, we headed to Mount Wakakusa. However, some of the guests said, "Climbing such a steep slope looks difficult, so we won't go up Mount Wakakusa." So the rest of the group climbed up and enjoyed the wonderful view from the summit. The weather was pleasant, and they seemed to thoroughly enjoy the refreshing comfort. Finally, we moved from Mount Wakakusa to Kasuga Taisha Shrine, where I gave a brief tour of the shrine. However, since everyone was beginning to feel tired, we headed to Nara Station by bus. They said, "We can get back on our own from here, so there's no need to see us all the way to Nara Station," so we parted ways at the bus stop in front of the National Museum, where the bus connections are made.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKasuga Taisha Honden-mae Station~Nara National Museum-mae Station100JPY
    Total100JPY

    After a rather long teaching experience at Japanese college, I converted my career about 6 years ago into working as a tour guide for the tourists visiting Japan.
    As my career overseas, I’ve been in the UN and the Japanese Embassy, all in the USA, totaling more than 6 years.
    And then I had made a big change in my career from a diplomat to an academic researcher. For that career to achieve, I studied abroad and won a doctorate degree in linguistics from Indiana University and landed a teaching position at college in Japan.
    With all these interesting and exciting experiences I’ve made myself ready to enrich your tour and make it both enjoyable and worthwhile.

    Apr 26, 2026
    39ferdinandr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Exceptional and entertaining
    Great tour better the tour guide Toshi.

    Apr 9, 2026
    X1429XKclaudiam
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sehr zu empfehlen
    Wir haben als Familie diese 6-stundige Tour durch Kyoto…

    Jun 28, 2025
    WilliamAlfonso_R
    Toshi is a very eloquent, knowledgeable, and diligent tour guide.
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Toshi was…

    May 30, 2025
    Z
    ZevP5
    Best Tour Guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the best guide!! He was so…

  • Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0900 Meet the customer at Hiroshima Port
    • 0925 Move to Miyajima by high-speed boat
    • 1000 Arrive at Miyajima
    • 1600 Move to Hiroshima Port by high-speed boat
    • 1615 Assist with the transfer to Matsuyama and finish work

    What Is a Private Miyajima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Mount Misen and Itsukushima Shrine I was worried because I did not know the plan until the morning of the tour. On the morning of the tour, they sent word that we would go by high-speed boat, which was a relief. Since the request was to climb Mount Misen, I reserved the ropeway and we made the ascent. It was quite a demanding mountain, so one of the guests seemed to have a hard time and we had to rest from time to time. The guests were very kind and gentle people, so I felt at ease. The way back was even more crowded than in autumn. After that, we paid our respects at Itsukushima Shrine and did some shopping along the main approach. As the boarding time drew near, we headed back to the pier and parked near the pier on the way back.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherHiroshima Port~Miyajima Port1,050JPY
    Section 2OtherMomijidani Station~Shishiiwa Station1,800JPY
    Section 3OtherMiyajima Port~Hiroshima Port1,050JPY
    Total3,900JPY

    Hello everyone.
    I’m excited to have an opportunity to introduce myself to you.
    This is my third year as a tour guide.
    I enjoy chatting with customers while guiding them.
    I mainly guide tours in the western Hiroshima Prefecture area, including Miyajima, Peace Memorial Park, Shukkei-en Garden, Kure, Etajima, and Takehara.
    I also love visiting temples and shrines.
    And I love sake and fresh seafood such as oysters and sashimi.
    As a motorcycle rider, I know some hidden gems in this area.
    I look forward to providing enjoyable tours, so please feel free to join me.

    Jun 20, 2026
    Todd_C
    Viator review: Hiroshima 6hr Private Guided Tour & Shopping with Concierge
    Harry was very…
    Harry was very informative. We did the…

    Apr 26, 2026
    Glenn_L
    Viator review: Hiroshima 6hr Private Guided Tour & Food Tasting with Concierge
    Moving tour of Hiroshima
    Our guide, Harry, met us…

    Apr 2, 2026
    Roldan_T
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Harry was an great and informative guide.
    Harry was…

    May 10, 2025
    jonathan_R
    Really great tour. …
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Really great tour. Hisashi or…

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

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Himeji Castle & Kokoen Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Himeji Station, coffee break along the way
    • 10:20 Himeji Castle (main keep, Hyakken Corridor)
    • 12:40 Kokoen Garden
    • 13:50 From Kokoen Garden to Miyuki-dori
    • 14:10 Dismissal

    What Is a Private Nagoya Castle Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania, and we enjoyed a lively conversation on a variety of topics, so much so that our time was up before we knew it. We navigated the Saturday crowds smoothly as we went around, and the guests listened attentively to my explanations. Since they had enjoyed a samurai experience in Kyoto, I believe they were able to appreciate the castle by connecting it with that experience. The weather was nearly perfect and they took many photos. On the way back, as they were looking for a good place to eat, I guided them to a Japanese restaurant on a shopping street, and we said a reluctant goodbye.

    Hello, I am a tour guide, Chiyuki. If I write my name in Japanese, it means one thousand happiness. Please call me Chiyuki. I am looking forward to seeing you.
    I have been guiding many visitors from all parts of the world since I became a tour guide.
    I hope Japan can attract many people with beautiful scenery, culture, historical buildings, food and so on. What are you interested in?
    And I couldn’t be happier if I can help you to create memories of a wonderful trip.
    I will make my best effort to satisfy my guests. See you soon. Thank you very much. Chiyuki

    Jul 9, 2026
    727tessv
    We had the best time in Kobe
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our guide Chiyuki was…

    Jun 21, 2026
    M9524SIphilippel
    Tripadvisor review: Exploring Nada Sake Breweries Kobe Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sake tour in Kobe
    Chiyuki is one of the…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Pinoy V
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very interesting and informative.
    Chiyuki kept us informed on our itinerary…

    Jun 11, 2026
    Sharon G
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Full-Day Private Tour with Nationally-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day!!
    After getting off to a rocky start our…

  • Hiroshima: Island Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

    Hiroshima: Island Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00  Visit at Hiroshima Ujina port  Norwegian Spirit Cruise Ship
    • 13:05  Tour start meet up at Reception Desk in Waiting Building of Ujina Berth.
    •     Take a Taxi at Ujina Berth to move to Miyajimaguti Ferry Terminal. (50min)
    • 14:00  Take the ferry to the Miyajima island. (10min)
    • 14:15  Island Miyajima (Itsukushima Shrine )
    • 16:25  Leave the Miyajima island go back to the Peace Park by Ferry. (45min)
    • 17:25  Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
    •     Atomic Bomb Dome→ Aioi bridge → Children’s Peace Monument → Rest House → Cenotaph 18:00  Peace Memorial Museum
    • We entered the museum at 18:00, and had planned to wait outside until 19:00 and then return to Ujina port by taxi, but since we were told there was no need to wait, we disbanded around 18:10.

    Title: What Is a Private Cruise-Port Day Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America who arrived on a cruise ship. To make the most of their limited time, we discussed and agreed on a plan, and this itinerary was the result. We used a taxi and the World Heritage sea route. At Miyajima and the Peace Memorial Park, the guests asked many questions and seemed to enjoy themselves, which was wonderful. Since one of the guests was a Spanish speaker, I guided mostly in English but also enjoyed some conversation in Spanish. I took many photos with the guests' camera, but unfortunately missed taking many with my own camera. My apologies for that. The plan had been to enter the museum at 18:00, wait outside until 19:00, and then return to Ujina Port by taxi, but since the guests indicated there was no need to wait, we parted ways around 18:10.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherEba~Kaigandori220JPY
    Section 2OtherGenbaku Dome-mae~Eba220JPY
    Section 3FerryMiyajima~Peace Memorial Park1,100JPY
    Total1,540JPY

    Hello, my namae is Tomoe Ishihara.
    I am qualified as a Hiroshima prefecture tour guide interpreter.
    I have been a tour guide in Hiroshima for three years, mainly working as an interpreter guide at the Japanese traditional garden, Miyajima Island, and Peace Memorial Park.
    Through my activities as a tour guide, I would like to convey the wonders of beautiful traditional Japanese culture.
    I speak English, Spanish, and Japanese. I love art, traveling, movies, reading, and cooking.
    Let me be your guide to help you create wonderful memories of your trip to Hiroshima!

    May 24, 2026
    James_W
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Best tour on our trip
    Tomoe was absolutely a…

    Mar 18, 2026
    richardF7501FH
    Perfectly balanced tour
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Tomoe gave us an excellent tour. The…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Jennifer L
    Historical Must!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Tomeo offered a great deal of fascinating…

    Jul 20, 2025
    TATIANA_M
    Gran ciudad y gran city tour
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Es un excelente tour…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet up @ Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto
    • 10:30 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 11:47 Bamboo Grove Path ~ Togetsukyo Bridge
    • 13:00 Lunch @ Shijo Karasuma
    • 14:30 Sanjusangendo Temple
    • 15:40 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 17:30 Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto

    Title: What Is a Private Full-Day Tour Like for First-Time Visitors to Japan? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. It was their first trip to Japan, and they were very excited. The itinerary followed the guests' requests, but the destinations happened to be somewhat inconveniently located and combined, so we traveled quite a lot by bus and train. Even so, the guests did not express any particular dissatisfaction, and we were able to complete the itinerary smoothly. They appeared satisfied with all the places we visited, and the tour proceeded in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere throughout. Overall, I believe the guests were very pleased.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKiyomizu-Gojo~Sanjo170JPY
    Section 2SubwaySanjo Keihan~Nishioji Oike260JPY
    Section 3BusNishioji Oike~Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 4BusKinkakuji-michi~Nishioji Sanjo230JPY
    Section 5TrainNishioji Sanjo~Arashiyama250JPY
    Section 6TrainArashiyama~Karasuma240JPY
    Section 7BusShijo Karasuma~Shijo Keihan-mae230JPY
    Section 8TrainGion-Shijo~Shichijo170JPY
    Section 9TrainShichijo~Fushimi Inari170JPY
    Section 10TrainFushimi Inari~Kiyomizu-Gojo220JPY
    Total2,170JPY

    Thanks for joining our tour. I’m Hiro Nakagawa, assigned to be your guide for this tour. I was eligible as a National Licensed Tour Guide in 2017. I have guided many tourists from overseas since then. Japan is a beautiful country with full of various attractions. Please enjoy your time in this country to the fullest. I will help you with that. What are you interested in this country? I will introduce this country’s long history, traditional culture, beautiful seasonal highlights, and delicious food to you. Please let me know your preferences. If it’s other than which I mentioned, I’m preparing it for you as much as possible. Let’s enjoy the trip together!

    Jul 13, 2025
    H2enjoy
    Wonderful Day Trip to Mt. Koya from the Osaka Cruise Terminal
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure)…

    Jun 20, 2025
    zoranm709
    Kyoto great tour experience.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyed the sites we were taken. Hiro was…

    Jun 18, 2025
    Adventurer310309
    Cool surprises on our Osaka and Kyoto tours with Hiro.
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife…

    May 26, 2025
    SK G
    Excellent tour
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mr. Hiro provided an excellent experience. Personable…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle and stay there

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle and stay there

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Pick up at hotel
    • 8:30-10:30 Move to Osaka Castle and stay there.
    • 10:40-11:30 Kuromon Market
    • 11:30-12:30 Dotonbori / Hozenji Yokocho Alley
    • Around 12:35 End of the tour

    Title: What's a Private Osaka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Kuromon Market, and Dotonbori The group's mobile Wi-Fi seemed to have trouble connecting, and on the day they mentioned it wouldn't connect at Osaka Castle Park. However, we managed to get in touch the day before, and on the day they came to meet me near the hotel front desk without any issues, which was a relief. On the day, I learned that one of the guests had twisted an ankle; it was getting better, but they couldn't walk very long distances. Since we arrived at Osaka Castle early, it was relatively uncrowded and we were able to take the elevator up to the fifth floor. After viewing the scenery from the observation deck, we gradually descended and toured each floor. On some floors, one of the guests rested on a chair while I guided the other guest, who liked history. On the way back, we took an electric car to the taxi stand and moved by taxi to Kuromon Market. The guests loved Kuromon Market and said they wanted to come back another day. We ate takoyaki, Japanese sweets, and fruit. I usually walk to Dotonbori, but this time we took the subway from Nippombashi Station to near Ebisubashi Bridge at the end, took photos in front of the Glico sign, guided them through to Sennichimae, prayed at the Mizukake Fudo in Hozenji Yokocho, and since they wanted to eat ramen, I explained the differences between Kinryu Ramen, Ichiran, and Kamukura. They chose Kamukura because they could likely get a seat and liked its sweet flavor, and we parted ways in front of it.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Umeda~Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 2OtherOsaka Castle Electric Car~To the taxi stand in Osaka Castle300JPY
    Section 3SubwayNippombashi~Namba190JPY
    Total730JPY

    Hi! I’m an official English guide in Wakayama prefecture. I’m also a national guide as well. I’d like to expand my guide area to help tourists.
    The town of Osaka offers a different atmosphere than Tokyo. I like both exciting Osaka and nature-filled Wakayama Prefecture.
    If you stay in Osaka for 3 days, you can go to Koyasan for one day, or even for a day trip, so I recommend sightseeing at Koyasan.
    If you are tired of the hustle and bustle of the big city, the nature of Koyasan will relax you.
    I will introduce you to the unique culture, history and must-see sights.

    Jun 23, 2026
    Shelley_E
    Viator review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    There is much to do in…
    There is much to…

    May 28, 2026
    Duncan_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Great Tour of Kyoto
    The tour was both very informative and…

    May 28, 2026
    ignaciosilenzi
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Koyasan with Miyuki
    Miyuki was…

    May 23, 2026
    189mirjamf
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Grandioser Einblick in eine fremde Kultur
    Sehr nette und…

  • Tokyo: Zojo-ji temple & Harajuku Meiji Jingu Shrine

    Tokyo: Zojo-ji temple & Harajuku Meiji Jingu Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 Hotel
    • 08:30 Zojo-ji temple
    • 09:00 Tokyo tower Main Deck
    • 10:00 Imperial Palace Outer Gardens, Niju-bashi
    • 10:50 Ginza
    • 11:15 Nihombasi
    • 11:50 Asakusa, Asakusa Kanko Center, Sensoji, Asakusa Shrine, Nishisando, Hoppie Street, Sumida River
    • Lunch at Asakusa Sansada Tempura Bowl
    • 14:05 Shinjuku Kabukicho, Golden Gai
    • 14:50 Shibuya crossing and Hachiko Statue
    • 15:15 Harajuku Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 16:10 Tour ends at Shinagawa Station

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a visitor from North America who stopped by on the way back from a business trip. The guest is planning a two-week trip to Japan next year. The guest had a very strong interest in the Japanese language and had been studying to the point of being able to read a little hiragana. All destinations were selected by the guide based on the guest's wishes, and since there was one hour to spare at the end, Meiji Shrine was added. At Tokyo Tower, we went up to the main deck to look out over the entire city, and being able to watch a video about the history of Tokyo on the deck was a very meaningful experience. Regarding the Imperial Palace, we tried to visit the East Gardens without checking the closed days in advance, but the guest generously accepted the situation, saying "Mattaku mondai arimasen" (No problem at all). For lunch we had tendon at "Sansada," which the guest said was delicious. At Meiji Shrine, which was added at the end, the guest was very pleased to be able to stroll through a forest surrounded by rich nature after walking through the crowds of Asakusa, Shinjuku, and Shibuya. At the end, the guest showed me the step counter on their watch, which had exceeded 22,000 steps.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinagawa~Daimon308JPY
    Section 2TrainOnarimon~Otemachi178JPY
    Section 3TrainHibiya~Ginza178JPY
    Section 4TrainGinza~Nihombashi178JPY
    Section 5TrainNihombashi~Asakusa178JPY
    Section 6TrainAsakusa~Shinjuku356JPY
    Section 7TrainShinjuku-sanchome~Shibuya178JPY
    Section 8TrainShibuya~Harajuku146JPY
    Section 9TrainHarajuku~Shinagawa178JPY
    Total1,878JPY

    Hello there,
    I’m Harry. This nickname comes from Harry Bosch, a character in American detective novels. I like watching films, listening to music and reading books, especially detective stories. I love meeting people from different countries and would like to help them understand Japanese culture and history. I believe that tourism can connect people all over the world and change the world into something truly peaceful. I was born in Osaka and have lived in Tokyo for more than 35 years. I am very happy to welcome tourists from all over the world. I will do my best to make your days fantastic. I look forward to seeing you soon.

    Oct 8, 2025
    Denise_M
    Great tour of Kyoto
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide Harry was very knowledgeable. We learned…

    Jun 30, 2025
    Iguana74
    Customized Tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our four-hour private tour of Kyoto was excellent.…

    May 12, 2025
    Tonya_G
    Would do it again.
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Our guide, Harry, did an excellent…

    Mar 22, 2025
    Lauren_P
    We had a great time on…
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great time…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.930Hotel
    • 2.1000 Ginza Mitsukoshi
    • 3.1030 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 4.1115  Roppongi hills + Coffee
    • 4.1210 Omote sando+ Takeshita Street+ Tapioca Drink + Togo Shrine
    • 5.1345 Akihabara
    • 6.1440 Tsukiji Sushi Lunch
    • 7.1535 Shin Toyosu Team -Lab finish

    What Is a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? Tsukiji, Roppongi, Harajuku, Shinjuku, and Akihabara — A Licensed Guide's Report [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. At Tsukiji Market, the guests also visited the intermediate wholesalers' building. They were amazed by the shellfish, which were larger than any they had seen before, and by the blocks of tuna. At Roppongi Hills, the guests enjoyed a relaxed coffee in Mohri Garden. From Omotesando, we walked through Cat Street to Takeshita Street. As it was a day off, it was very crowded. In Omotesando, we were lucky enough to come across a wedding at a venue. On Takeshita Street, the guests enjoyed tapioca drinks. I had thought of showing them the garden at Togo Shrine, but it was closed due to a wedding, which was unfortunate. From Harajuku, we went via Shinjuku to Akihabara, where we looked at several anime shops, and at a large electronics store they bought some plush toys. As the guests were getting hungry, we returned to Tsukiji for lunch. Luckily, the counter at a main sushi restaurant was open, so they were able to enjoy it. They were delighted, exclaiming how delicious it was. The course was mostly one specified in advance by the travel agency, with only slight additions on my part, but the guests were very pleased. I also obtained consent regarding the photos, including those from the previous day.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTameike-Sanno~Ginza178JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Roppongi178JPY
    Section 3SubwayRoppongi~Omotesando286JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku~Akihabara178JPY
    Section 5SubwayAkihabara~Tsukiji178JPY
    Total998JPY

    My name is KAZU HAKATA. 73years old (as of end AUG2025). I started as a guide from March 2023. Graduated from KYOTO Univ Intl Economics and MBA from INSEAD in France. (14 years in overseas, LUX, Paris, Hong Kong) . I used to work in Banking, Telecommunication, Air Line, Financial Trading as CFO. I did more than 150 days of Guide since 2023,Tokyo( most of the Guides), Nikko, Hakone, Kamakura, and other area. Born in Hyogo Pref. I lived 26 years in Kansai and know quite well Kyoto, Nara, Osaka ,Kobe, Wakayama ( Koya san + Kumano Kodo).
    I know not only touristic sites, but I can show you hidden charming points of JAPAN. If you can enjoy your tour in JAPAN, it is also my pleasure. I will do as much as I can to assist you to understand Japanese history, culture, nature, and a real life in JAPAN.
    [FRANCAIS]
    J’ai commencee a Guide apres avoir obtenu Diplome de Francaise en fevrier 2023. Jusqu’a maintenant j’ai effectue plus de 150 guides dont 1/4 francais. Principalement a Tokyo , mais de temps en temps aux Nikko, Kamakura, Kawaguchiko, Hakone, Takayama, Shirakawago, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Okayama, Naoshima.
    A Tokyo, les sites frequentes sont Tsukiji, Hama Rikyu, Asakusa, Jardin Imperial, Rikugi-En , Yanaka, Ueno, Ameyoko, Musee Nationale, Akihabara, Jardin de Korakuen , Harajuku, Sanctuaire de Meiji, ruelle de Tekeshita , Aoyama, Shibuya, Temple de Gotokuji, etc.
    Comme je suis ne a Hyogo ( ouest du Japon) et etudie a Kyoto, Je connais bien Kyoto,Nara,Osaka, Mont Koya, Hieizan. En plus j’ai travaille a Osaka 2017-2019.pendant cette periode j’ai souvent visitee des sites touristiques a Kyoto, Nara, Osaka. J’ai fait les randonnes a Kumono Kodo et 33 temples en Kansai.

    Apr 4, 2026
    Rebecca_M
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kazu Rocks!!
    Kazu was a gem! From our booking well in advance…

    Oct 19, 2025
    geoffreysE7617EB
    6-hour Tokyo Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My guide, Kazuyasu Hakata, modified some of the tour,…

    Oct 9, 2025
    zglus
    6 Hr walking Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kazuyas brought us all around Tokyo and was…

    Sep 26, 2025
    JulieD4351
    We saw the fish market, many shrines, the busy walkway, and much more!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Gioji & Daimaru Department Store

    Kyoto in One Day: Gioji & Daimaru Department Store

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 Sakura Kyoto, Fuga
    • 09:00 JR Saga Arashiyama Station by subway and JR train
    • 09:20 Gioji by taxi
    • Bamboo grove by walking
    • Togetsukyo by walking
    • 11:00 Ryoanji (600) by taxi
    • 12:30 Ginkakuji (500) by taxi
    • 13:30 Nishiki Market by taxi
    • 14:30 Daimaru Department Store
    • End of the tour

    What Can You See on a Private Full-Day Kyoto Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests came from North America. The offer was originally for one person, but the group actually turned out to be more than one. This was not a problem at all. In addition to the destinations they wanted to see, they mentioned places they wanted to avoid: the Monkey Park and Kinkaku-ji. It seemed that acquaintances had advised them to avoid these spots because they get too crowded. One of the guests drew a fortune slip at Gio-ji Temple and got the best result (daikichi), which was a relief. Since they had about a week in Kyoto, I guided them on the sightseeing train and the Hozugawa River boat ride. They bought various souvenirs at a bamboo craft shop. At the souvenir shop of Ryoan-ji Temple, one of the guests bought tsukudani and long-lasting pickles. Since we started early at 8:00, we skipped lunch, and finally I guided them through Nishiki Market, explaining many of the shops. At the end, I took them to the basement floor of Daimaru and showed them the sweets and bakery sections. One of the guests was very interested and delighted. We were blessed with clear autumn weather, and I think it was a good tour. The autumn foliage is still just beginning and not very beautiful yet.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainJujo~Kyoto220JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto~Saga Arashiyama240JPY
    Total460JPY

    I’m Ryoichi Kazuma and my nickname is “Kazz”. I live in Kyotanabe city next to Kyoto city. I want guests to enjoy Kyoto by seeing and experiencing not only from outside but also from inside. I offer various information from daily matters to traditional cultures. Most destinations in Kyoto are located on the eastern side or the western side. As I want to guide guests to as many destinations as possible, I make an efficient itinerary and recommend a taxi use to save time. Additionally, I take pictures at various spots and finally share the link to my storage. By doing so, guests can download their favorite pictures from my storage. Please enjoy Kyoto night and day!

    Jul 14, 2026
    T6871WWricharde
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kazz gave a great one on one 8 hour custom tour…

    Jun 5, 2026
    mateoe216
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Would book again
    The tour with Kazuma-san was absolutely great. As someone…

    May 27, 2026
    Leah_D
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely recommend!
    I definitely recommend seeing some of the sights with a…

    May 26, 2026
    sheilacL3330KS
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very enthusiastic and knowledgable guide. Much appreciated
    Kazz was an excellent guide…

  • Kyoto: Ryoan-ji Temple & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto: Ryoan-ji Temple & Nijo Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Hotel Meet (Hotel)
    • 8:30-9:20 Transfer (chartered car; Hotel→Arashiyama)
    • 9:20-9:30 Group photo of 2 groups in front of Togetsukyo Bridge
    • 9:30-9:50 Transfer (chartered car: Togetsukyo Bridge→Torokko Arashiyama)
    • 9:50-10:45 Arashiyama walk & sightseeing (Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji Temple/Sogenchi Garden, Kimono Forest)
    • 10:45-11:05 Transfer (chartered car; Arashiyama→Ryoan-ji Temple)
    • 11:05-11:50 Ryoan-ji Temple visit
    • 11:50-12:05 Transfer (chartered car; Ryoan-ji Temple→Kinkaku-ji Temple)
    • 12:05-12:50 Kinkaku-ji Temple visit
    • 12:50-13:20 Transfer (chartered car; Kinkaku-ji Temple→Nijo Castle)
    • 13:20-14:10 Nijo Castle visit
    • 14:10-14:30 Transfer (chartered car; Nijo Castle→Hotel)
    • 14:30 Farewell in front of the hotel

    The guests were a group visiting from North America. The tour was conducted in two separate groups, but at the request of the guests, everyone gathered together for a group photo in front of the Togetsukyo Bridge in Arashiyama. The guests were divided into two vans, but both followed the same itinerary. In Arashiyama, we visited the Togetsukyo Bridge, the bamboo grove, Tenryu-ji Temple and its Sogenchi Garden, and the Kimono Forest. We then continued to Ryoan-ji Temple, Kinkaku-ji Temple, and Nijo Castle. Working together with and being helped by the other guide, Mr. Okumura, we were able to proceed smoothly. In my group, many of the guests especially enjoyed the bamboo grove and the rock garden at Ryoan-ji Temple.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherHotel (Kanra Hotel)~Arashiyama (Togetsukyo Bridge)0JPY
    Section 2OtherTogetsukyo Bridge~In front of Torokko Arashiyama Station0JPY
    Section 3OtherTenryu-ji Temple~Ryoan-ji Temple0JPY
    Section 4OtherRyoan-ji Temple~Kinkaku-ji Temple0JPY
    Section 5OtherKinkaku-ji Temple~Nijo Castle0JPY
    Section 6OtherNijo Castle~Hotel0JPY
    Total0JPY

    My name is (Mr.)Michiharu Aioi and I worked at Electronic Manufacturing Company (Panasonic) for more than 40 years in charge of overseas sales.
    I learned a lot in these 40 years and now I would like to contribute to the promotion of mutual understanding with foreign countries being involved in tourism busines utilizing my long experience in my previous company. I will do my best to make each trip very fruitful for each foreign visitor.
    As for my language ability, in addition to English, I can speak Spanish which I used in my job and I can communicate with Chinese people with intermediate level. Finally It is my great pleasure if my activity could work in the mutual understang with foreign visitors. Thanks a Lot !

    Jul 19, 2026
    Wander35832177180
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Kyoto temple tour
    Our Kyoto guided tour (Aioi Michiharu) was a…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Abby_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour. Highly recommend
    Michi our guide was excellent!…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Javier P
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto gems
    Michi was incredibly courteous and informative.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Beth_D
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Tour and Guide
    Michi was an excellent tour guide! He…