Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 07:50 Meet up@ONSEN RYOKAN Yuen Shinjuku
    • 2. 07:55 Travel∶Subway
    • 3. 08:50 Stay@Tsukiji
    • 4. 10:10 Breakfast@Tsukiji Sushisei Tsukiji Main Store
    • 5. 11:10 Stay@Kabukiza Theatre
    • 6. 11:20 Travel∶Subway
    • 7. 11:50 Stay@Tokyo Tower
    • 8. 12:30 Travel∶Subway
    • 9. 13:00 Stay@Meiji Shrine
    • 10. 13:45 Stay@Takeshita Street
    • 11. 14:15 Travel∶Subway
    • 12. 14:30 Stay@Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 13. 14:45 Travel∶Train, Subway
    • 14. 15:10 Disband@Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building South Observatory

    What Can You See on an 8-Hour Private Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Tokyo. Everyone in the group had plenty of energy, so we decided to visit a slightly larger number of spots than usual. Since the tour started at 8:00 and the guests had barely eaten breakfast, we had an early lunch first at Tsukiji. As the guests also did some shopping, we ended up spending quite a long time at Tsukiji. Because the Kabukiza Theatre was one of the requested spots, we walked from Tsukiji to Higashi-Ginza and then headed from Higashi-Ginza Station toward the Harajuku area. Since I had also received a booking for the following day, I had decided to focus on the western part of the city on this day and cover the eastern part on the second day. By the time we reached the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, it was almost the end time, but we extended a little and finished the tour after visiting the South Observation Deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, which was near the guests' accommodation, before parting ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassShinjuku-sanchome Station～Tsukiji Station900JPY
    Section 2Free PassHigashi-ginza Station～Kamiyacho Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassKamiyacho Station～Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassMeiji-jingumae Station～Shibuya Station0JPY
    Section 5TrainShibuya Station～Yoyogi Station150JPY
    Section 6Free PassYoyogi Station～Tochomae Station0JPY
    Total1,050JPY

    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

    Sep 29, 2026
    Y9791IZnicks
    Making the most of a rainy day
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Sam was a wonderful…

    Sep 25, 2026
    910lorig
    Best experience for a perfect day in Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Best…

    Sep 15, 2026
    R8612KOjanicea
    Highly recommend 👍
    Tripadvisor review: Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Sam, was amazing!!…

    Sep 1, 2026
    greasygrandpa
    First Day In Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our tour guide Sam was very knowledgeable…

  • Kyoto: Hyatt Regency Kyoto & Nara-machi

    Kyoto: Hyatt Regency Kyoto & Nara-machi

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Hyatt Regency Kyoto (Start of Tour) (car 60-90 minutes)
    • Hyatt Regency Kyoto　　　　　 by car
    • 10:10-30 Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Deer Park Nara Park Ukigumo-enchi
    • 10:40-11:10 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate) Nandaimon
    • (walk 5 minutes) on foot
    • 11:20-50 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall (walk 10 minutes) on foot
    • 12:00 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower Shoro (walk 5 minutes) on foot
    • 12:10-13:10 Todaiji's Nigatsudo Hall Nigatsudo
    • lunch at Emado-chaya Lunch at Emado-chaya
    • (walk 10 minutes) on foot
    • 13:20-50 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill: Below Wakakusayama
    • Kobaien and Kikuichimonju Shiro Kanenaga (walk 5 minutes) on foot
    • 14:00-30 Kasuga-taisha Shrine (UNESCO World Heritage) Kasuga-taisha
    • (car 5 minutes ) by car
    • 14:50-15:50 Nara-machi (Old Merchants' Quarters of the town):
    • sake tasting, traditional merchant house, private katana gallery etc.
    • 　　　　 (car 60-90 minutes)　by car to the hotel
    • 17:00 (End of Tour) Hyatt Regency Kyoto Hyatt Regency Kyoto

    What Is a Private History Tour in Japan Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Curious Guests from Europe The guests were a group visiting from Europe. Most of them spoke very natural English, and although one person's English had a slight accent that was occasionally hard to catch, communication was smooth overall. What made me happiest was that the guests asked so many, many questions. They listened with great interest even to the story of the bullet marks and their connection to European merchants. I would have loved to hear even more from them — such as how their home region was the last European nation to hold on to its overseas colonies, how it is the only European nation whose state religion has remained unchanged for centuries, and how rice is a staple food there. I truly wished the conversation could have gone on longer.

    Click here for more details: Nara Day Trip from Kyoto by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Junichi

    Hello! Thank you for choosing Nara! I bet you’ll love Nara. I specialize in Nara because Nara is the unique place where in one day you can cover the history and religions of Japan from the ancient times to the post war era while enjoying rambling in the UNESCO World Heritage park, having communication with lovely deer, surrounded with the beautiful nature.
    I grew up in Nara, went university in Kyoto, enjoyed teaching at high schools and a university in Osaka. The three former capitals of Japan are home to me.
    After retiring from teaching I began guiding so that I can meet various people from various corners of the world with a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Each time I guide, I find it hugely rewarding because I learn a lot from my guests sharing the history, culture and all that I know about Nara, Kyoto and Osaka.
    I used to be a marathon runner, mountain climber and skier though I am not much of them anymore.
    What I especially recommend is to stay in Nara a couple of days and enjoy communicating with friendly deer while visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nara in early morning, temples and shrines at night are well worth experiencing.

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    May 16, 2026
    I3520JTcristinat
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nara with family
    Excellent tour with Junichi!!! Perfect English speaking guide and…

    May 3, 2026
    Maria_J
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyable day in Nara
    We spent 6 hours in Nara with Junichi…

    Apr 11, 2026
    64sandig
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Osaka DEP. with Licensed Guide
    ????? Absolutely Outstanding ? Junichi Made Our Nara Day…

    Mar 30, 2026
    dpadillachavez
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
    Great day at Nara!
    Best tour on Nara, Junichi…

  • Osaka: Kongobuji Temple

    Osaka: Kongobuji Temple

    Mt. Koya Day Trip from Osaka by Car with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @Dormy inn Osaka Tanimachi
    • 12:00 Danjo Garan: Konpon Daito~Kondo
    • 13:00 Lunch: Chuo Shokudo Sanbo
    • 13:50 Kongobuji Temple
    • 14:40 Okunoin Approach~Okunoin
    • 18:00 Disband @Dormy inn Osaka Tanimachi

    What Is a Private Koyasan Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report from Japan Guide Agency The guests were visitors from Oceania. They had visited Japan before, but this was their first time doing serious sightseeing. They chose Koyasan because it had been recommended by someone they met while traveling in the past. The weather was clear that day but quite cold, and in the grounds of the Danjo Garan compound there was still hardened snow from two weeks earlier. However, since it was the off-season there were few visitors, and the guests were pleased to be able to sightsee at a relaxed pace.

    Click here for more details: Mt. Koya Day Trip from Osaka by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Hiro

    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!

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    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:50 Meet up @ The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo
    • 2. 10:55 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 11:25 Visit @ Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 4. 11:40 Travel: Subway
    • 5. 12:05 Visit @ Imperial Palace East Gardens, Marunouchi
    • 6. 13:30 Lunch @ Soranoiro NIPPON
    • 7. 14:05 Travel: Subway
    • 8. 14:30 Visit @ Asakusa
    • 9. 15:40 Travel: Subway
    • 10. 15:55 Visit @ Akihabara
    • 11. 17:00 Travel: Subway
    • 12. 17:35 Dismiss @ Tokyo Midtown

    What Is a Private Full-Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Asakusa, and Akihabara The guests were a group visiting Tokyo. They walked at a fairly quick pace, so the tour progressed smoothly, especially in the first half. For lunch, they requested noodles, so I took them to a shop in Tokyo Ramen Street, which is close to the Imperial Palace. In the second half, in Asakusa and Akihabara, the pace slowed down a little. In Asakusa, the guests showed interest in shopping and street food, so we spent some extra time there. My guiding in Akihabara usually takes only a short time, but since the guests enjoyed the arcades and became absorbed in the crane games and car racing games at various shops, we ended up spending more time than expected. Even so, because the first half had gone smoothly, we did not fall much behind schedule, and I saw them off near their hotel to conclude the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassRoppongi Station～Shibuya Station900JPY
    Section 2Free PassShibuya Station～Otemachi Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassOtemachi Station～Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassAsakusa Station～Suehirocho Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassAkihabara Station～Roppongi Station0JPY
    Total900JPY

    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

    Sep 29, 2026
    Y9791IZnicks
    Making the most of a rainy day
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Sam was a wonderful…

    Sep 25, 2026
    910lorig
    Best experience for a perfect day in Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Best…

    Sep 15, 2026
    R8612KOjanicea
    Highly recommend 👍
    Tripadvisor review: Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Sam, was amazing!!…

    Sep 1, 2026
    greasygrandpa
    First Day In Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our tour guide Sam was very knowledgeable…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Omotesando

    Tokyo in One Day: Omotesando

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:50 Standby at Hotel Tokyu. Confirm arrival with customer via communication
    • 10:00 Meet in the lobby
    • 10:10 Hotel. Obtain materials at the tourist office.
    • Hachiko statue, scramble crossing, capsule toys on Basket Street stop-by ~ to Koen-dori
    • Nonbei Yokocho ~ Shibuya Yokocho (preparing to open)
    • Stroll on the Miyashita Park rooftop.
    • Walking through Cat Street in the Onden area to Meiji Shrine.
    • 11:30-12:45 Visit Meiji Shrine. Buy and eat stone-baked sweet potato from a street stall in front of Harajuku Station.
    • 12:45-13:30 Stroll around Harajuku. Takeshita Street ~ Ura-Hara ~ Omotesando, walking to Omotesando Station.
    • 13:30-14:30 The lunch request is Japanese food. Considering tonkatsu and yakitori, but going to the ramen shop "Darumaya" in Omotesando.
    • 14:30-15:00 Omotesando → Asakusa. Travel by Ginza Line.
    • Asakusa. Withdraw cash at a convenience store
    • 15:30-16:15 Kaminarimon ~ Nakamise-dori ~ main hall. End of working hours.
    • 16:20-17:00 Asakusa ~ Shibuya. Upon request, slightly change the return route and accompany to the hotel in Shibuya.

    What Is a Private New Year Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa and Shibuya The originally scheduled guide had to step down due to illness, and I responded to an urgent request made the day before the tour. The guest was a visitor who had studied international relations at university and had traveled to various places around the world over the course of several months before coming to Japan. Since the guest planned to return to North America after staying in Japan, I made an effort to focus my explanations on sociological topics. As it was the New Year period, I was able to introduce Japanese customs and traditions within an atmosphere that differed from the usual. 16:20-17:00 Asakusa to Shibuya. Although the working hours had already been completed, at the guest's request I slightly adjusted the return route and accompanied them to the Hotel in Shibuya.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShibuya～Harajuku150JPY
    Section 2SubwayOmotesando～Asakusa260JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa～Shibuya260JPY
    Total670JPY

    Tour Report by Kei

    Hello, Bonjour, Buongiorno!

    I’m Kei, Keisuke YAMAMOTO, japanese freelance Government-licensed guide and interpreter in French and in English, speaking Italian as well. Having accompanied guests to all over Japan by now with whole 47 prefectures, all year round. 11 years and over 1500 days of experience as a professional guide since 2015, after 24 years of work at French Tourist Board in Tokyo in charge of promotion and marketing.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Je suis Kei, Keisuke YAMAMOTO, guide-interprète indépendant japonais, agréé par le gouvernement en langues française et anglaise, parlant également italien. Ayant accompagné des clients dans tout le Japon avec se 47 départements, toute l’année. 11 ans et plus de 1500 jours d’expérience en tant que guide professionel depuis 2015, après 24 ans de travail à l’Office de Tourisme Français à Tokyo en charge de la promotion et du marketing.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Sono Kei, Keisuke YAMAMOTO, un guida-interprete indipendente giappone e approvato dal governo per le lingue francese e inglese, parlo italiano anche. Avo accompagno i clienti in tutto il Giappone, con sue 47 province, tutto l’anno. 10 anni e piu di 1500 journi di esperienza come guida professionista dal 2015, dopo 24 anni di lavoro presso l’Ufficio del Turismo francese a Tokyo come responsabile della promozione e del marketing.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Having lived mostly in Kawasaki city attached to Tokyo in the West, I have a good knowledge and profound experience of Tokyo and its surrounding areas such as Mount Fuji, Hakone and Kamakura or Nikko.
    A history lover and food lover, qualified as JSA Wine Expert, I’d like to help you choosing good restaurants and good drinks including Sake.
    Let’s go together for a delightful discovery in Japan.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Ayant vécu principalement dans la ville de Kawasaki rattachée à Tokyo à l’Ouest, j’ai une bonne connaissance et une profonde expérience de Tokyo et de ses environs comme le Mont Fuji, Hakone et Kamakura ou Nikko.
    Passionné d’histoire et de gastronomie, diplômé JSA Wine Expert, j’aimerais vous aider à choisir de bons restaurants et de bonnes boissons dont le Saké.
    Partons ensemble pour une délicieuse découverte du Japon.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Avendo vissuto principalmente nella città di Kawasaki, vicina a Tokyo, ho una buona conoscenza e una profonda esperienza di Tokyo e dei suoi dintorni, come il Monte Fuji, Hakone e Kamakura o Nikko.
    Appassionato di storia e gastronomia, laureato Wine Expert presso la JSA, vorrei aiutarvi a scegliere buoni ristoranti e buoni bevande, tra cui il sakè.
    Partiamo insieme per una deliziosa scoperta del Giappone.

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    Jun 5, 2025
    Jenan_A
    Lovely experience but expensive
    Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    What a lovely…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:40 Meet at hotel・Departure　11:10 Fushimi Inari　12:45 Pontocho・Nishiki Market (Lunch)　14:10 Kinkaku-ji　15:45 Gion　16:45 Guide to Yasaka Pagoda and end of tour

    What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. Before coming to Kyoto, they had spent time in Hokkaido and Hakone. Sanjusangendo had originally been included in the itinerary, but since the guests had only just arrived at their hotel that morning, check-in took some time and the departure was delayed. As a result, we kept just barely missing the Keihan train and city buses, and time gradually became tight. Guiding through Pontocho before heading to Nishiki Market also had an impact. When it became clear that we would not make the closing time (last admission by 15:30), we discussed it partway through the tour and changed the plan. It was another warm day, and there was hardly any feeling of cold. It was a busy tour, as the guests asked many different questions that kept me occupied answering them. Since their stay in Kyoto was limited to two days, I received many questions about recommended sightseeing spots and activities in Kyoto. The photo was taken at Kinkaku-ji.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKiyomizu-Gojo～Fushimi Inari220JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari～Gion-Shijo220JPY
    Section 3SubwayShijo～Kitaoji260JPY
    Section 4BusKitaoji Bus Terminal～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 5BusKinkakuji-michi～Nishioji-Oike230JPY
    Section 6SubwayNishioji-Oike～Higashiyama-Sanjo260JPY
    Total1,420JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

    Request Booking

    Sep 28, 2026
    Miguel_E
    Amazing Service
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful time with Kazuo.…

    Sep 27, 2026
    T
    TrailBlazer47194
    Kazuo Sumi is a great guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide Kazuo Sumi…

    Sep 1, 2026
    Steve6172014
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 7, 2026
    Pascale_Q
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Very good private tour of Kyoto with Kazuo
    We had…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up @Park Hyatt Kyoto
    • 2. 10:15 @Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 3. 11:40 @Arashiyama (Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji, Togetsukyo Bridge)
    • 4. 12:30 @Arashiyama Monkey Park
    • 5. 14:00 @Kinkaku-ji
    • 6. 15:00 @Nishiki Market
    • 7. 16:00 Disband @Aritsugu

    What Can You See on a Private Kyoto Tour Including Fushimi Inari, Arashiyama, and Kinkaku-ji? A Licensed Guide's Report The tour was scheduled for four hours, but the guests strongly wished to visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, the Arashiyama bamboo grove, and Kinkaku-ji without fail, as well as have a meal at Nishiki Market, and asked me to make all their wishes come true even if it meant extending the tour. All transportation was arranged by taxi through the guests' own app. When I introduced the Monkey Park while at the Togetsukyo Bridge in Arashiyama, the guests said they absolutely wanted to go. They were delighted by the wonderful view from the summit and the adorable monkeys. I also accompanied the guests at Nishiki Market and helped with purchasing food, keeping their needs in mind. In the end, the tour was extended by two hours, but the guests were very pleased and even said, "Let's definitely meet again! It was so meaningful to have everything explained to us. We will cover all transportation and accommodation costs, so please guide us throughout our entire stay when we return to Japan." I am truly filled with gratitude. Hoping this may come true, I intend to keep improving my language skills and everything else needed for guiding so that I will be ready for that day.

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

    Tour Report by YUKA

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

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    Sep 29, 2026
    duncans746
    Yuka was great
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Yuka was a fantastic guide, knowledgeable,…

    Sep 23, 2026
    navinderp2024
    Great day in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 9, 2026
    piperl686
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Honeymoon Tour in Kyoto
    We were so impressed by…

    Aug 5, 2026
    Anita_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great day of sightseeing in Kyoto
    Yuka was a…

  • Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:25 Meet at Kyoto Station　9:37 Board the JR rapid train bound for Nara　10:21 Arrive at JR Nara Station　10:45 Nara Park　11:00 Todaiji Temple　12:15 Kasuga Taisha Shrine　13:25 Shopping at Higashimuki Shopping Street
    • 14:20 Naramachi Nigiwai no Ie　15:15 Arrive at JR Nara Station　15:37 Board the JR rapid train bound for Kyoto　16:30 Fushimi Inari　17:30 Arrive at JR Kyoto Station　Tour ends

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Nara and Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. Since English was a foreign language for both the guests and myself, there were many times when I had to repeat the same explanation twice. The guests walked energetically and seemed perfectly fine walking all day long. Perhaps because they had eaten a large breakfast at their hotel, they said they were not hungry, and at the guests' suggestion, we cut the planned lunch and continued sightseeing. The guests had prepared light snacks and ate them while waiting for trains and buses. They did a lot of shopping, but since we had time to spare, they said they wanted to finish Nara sightseeing early and see Kyoto instead. After discussing it, we decided on the spur of the moment to visit Fushimi Inari. Fushimi Inari was the place the guests enjoyed the most. They were all excited and took many photos. The weather today was fine, hardly cold at all, and each site was uncrowded, making it easy to guide. After Fushimi Inari, we returned to Kyoto Station and the tour ended. The photo was taken at Kasuga Taisha Shrine.

    Click here for more details: Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Nara720JPY
    Section 2Free PassJR Nara～JR Nara600JPY
    Section 3TrainNara～Inari680JPY
    Section 4TrainInari～Kyoto150JPY
    Total2,150JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

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    Sep 28, 2026
    Miguel_E
    Amazing Service
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful time with Kazuo.…

    Sep 27, 2026
    T
    TrailBlazer47194
    Kazuo Sumi is a great guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide Kazuo Sumi…

    Sep 1, 2026
    Steve6172014
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 7, 2026
    Pascale_Q
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Very good private tour of Kyoto with Kazuo
    We had…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①　11:00　Hotel Hokke Club Kyoto Meetup
    • ②　11:05　Itinerary explanation and about the history of Kyoto
    • ③　12:00　Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • ④　13:15　Ryoan-ji Temple
    • ⑤　14:40　Nijo Castle
    • ⑥　16:00　Sannenzaka～Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • ⑦　17:15　Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • ⑧　17:45　Disband at Gion-Shijo (Pontocho)

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, and the person who made the booking spoke Japanese, so today the conversation switched back and forth between Japanese and English, which kept my mind quite busy. It was unexpectedly difficult, as I sometimes struggled to find the right Japanese words when it came time to explain things. Their stay in Kyoto was only one day, and since they were set to walk the Kumano Kodo starting the next day, the schedule was necessarily packed. We walked a great deal, talked a great deal, and skipped lunch entirely, focusing intently on seeing everything. Rather than simply visiting each place, the guests asked thoughtful questions about the historical background and significance of each site, showing particular interest in dry landscape gardens (karesansui), wabi-sabi, and wabi-cha tea culture. I am grateful that they listened patiently to my explanations. Today I lost one kilogram.

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

    Tour Report by Kazu

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Odawara & Kami-Gora

    Kanagawa in One Day: Odawara & Kami-Gora

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:38 Meet at Odawara Station Shinkansen platform Car 13, 6D and 6E
    • 10:48-11:03 Odawara→Hakone-Yumoto　Actual [11:06-11:20]
    • 11:05-11:20 Delivery service 　Actual [11:20-11:30]
    • 11:30-12:05 Hakone-Yumoto→Hakone-machi Port　Actual [11:45-12:20] Hakone-machi Port
    • 12:30-13:40 Lunch at soba restaurant
    • Occasionally cloudy. Wind gradually strong.
    • 14:00-14:25 Motohakone Port→Togendai Port
    • 14:48-15:00 Togendai Port→Owakudani
    • 15:00-15:45 Owakudani
    • 15:45-16:15 Owakudani→Sounzan
    • 16:15-16:30 Sounzan→Kami-Gora
    • 16:39 Sunset
    • 16:30-16:45 Kami-Gora→Hyatt Regency
    • 16:45-17:00 Check-in assistance　Disband on-site

    What Is a Private Hakone Tour Like from Odawara Station? A Licensed Guide's Report The originally arranged meeting point was the guests' accommodation. During communication the day before the tour, it became clear that the guests would not be able to reach the hotel based on their arrival time, so the meeting point was changed to the Shinkansen platform at Odawara Station. Since the guests had large luggage, I proposed on short notice that they use the delivery service inside Hakone-Yumoto Station. The luggage was sent by ground transport to the hotel, which allowed us to head out for sightseeing in the meantime. The guests successfully completed the delivery service reservation the day before. I planned the day's itinerary taking factors such as the time of sunset into account. Along with a plan for the following day, I recommended the Hakone Free Pass, which was purchased at Odawara Station and used by the guests. The guests were looking forward to tempura for lunch, so we went to a soba restaurant. They ate a great deal and seemed very satisfied. Note: For some reason the pirate ship required a paid fare. I am attaching the photo posted at the ticket window. When accompanying guests, it is usually free of charge.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOdawara～Hakone-Yumoto360JPY
    Section 2BusHakone-Yumoto～Motohakone1,080JPY
    Section 3TrainOdawara～Odawara150JPY
    Section 4OtherHakone-machi Port～Togendai Port1,200JPY
    Section 5TrainSounzan～Kami-Gora90JPY
    Total2,880JPY

    Tour Report by Kei

    Hello, Bonjour, Buongiorno!

    I’m Kei, Keisuke YAMAMOTO, japanese freelance Government-licensed guide and interpreter in French and in English, speaking Italian as well. Having accompanied guests to all over Japan by now with whole 47 prefectures, all year round. 11 years and over 1500 days of experience as a professional guide since 2015, after 24 years of work at French Tourist Board in Tokyo in charge of promotion and marketing.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Je suis Kei, Keisuke YAMAMOTO, guide-interprète indépendant japonais, agréé par le gouvernement en langues française et anglaise, parlant également italien. Ayant accompagné des clients dans tout le Japon avec se 47 départements, toute l’année. 11 ans et plus de 1500 jours d’expérience en tant que guide professionel depuis 2015, après 24 ans de travail à l’Office de Tourisme Français à Tokyo en charge de la promotion et du marketing.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Sono Kei, Keisuke YAMAMOTO, un guida-interprete indipendente giappone e approvato dal governo per le lingue francese e inglese, parlo italiano anche. Avo accompagno i clienti in tutto il Giappone, con sue 47 province, tutto l’anno. 10 anni e piu di 1500 journi di esperienza come guida professionista dal 2015, dopo 24 anni di lavoro presso l’Ufficio del Turismo francese a Tokyo come responsabile della promozione e del marketing.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Having lived mostly in Kawasaki city attached to Tokyo in the West, I have a good knowledge and profound experience of Tokyo and its surrounding areas such as Mount Fuji, Hakone and Kamakura or Nikko.
    A history lover and food lover, qualified as JSA Wine Expert, I’d like to help you choosing good restaurants and good drinks including Sake.
    Let’s go together for a delightful discovery in Japan.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Ayant vécu principalement dans la ville de Kawasaki rattachée à Tokyo à l’Ouest, j’ai une bonne connaissance et une profonde expérience de Tokyo et de ses environs comme le Mont Fuji, Hakone et Kamakura ou Nikko.
    Passionné d’histoire et de gastronomie, diplômé JSA Wine Expert, j’aimerais vous aider à choisir de bons restaurants et de bonnes boissons dont le Saké.
    Partons ensemble pour une délicieuse découverte du Japon.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Avendo vissuto principalmente nella città di Kawasaki, vicina a Tokyo, ho una buona conoscenza e una profonda esperienza di Tokyo e dei suoi dintorni, come il Monte Fuji, Hakone e Kamakura o Nikko.
    Appassionato di storia e gastronomia, laureato Wine Expert presso la JSA, vorrei aiutarvi a scegliere buoni ristoranti e buoni bevande, tra cui il sakè.
    Partiamo insieme per una deliziosa scoperta del Giappone.

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    Jun 5, 2025
    Jenan_A
    Lovely experience but expensive
    Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    What a lovely…