Category: Uncategorized

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

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

    Tour Itinerary

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

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

    Transportation cost per person

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

    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.

    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

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

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

    Transportation cost per person

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

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

    Sep 10, 2026
    Sonal_G
    Noripy is just the best
    Viator review: Tokyo Vegetarian and Halal Food Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Noripy is such a…

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

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

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

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Peace Park

    Tour Itinerary

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

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

    Transportation cost per person

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

    Originally, I’m a cycling guide doing cycling tours all over Japan.
    But, already done Hiroshima & Miyajima tour more than 400 times.
    I traveled many countries in my younger days. I traveled Europe, US, China, India, US, Mexico, Peru Australia, NZ, and so on.
    I decided to use this experience to become a guide.
    I’m afraid but no tipping required, because cycling guides are not allowed to have tipping in my association. And you do not need to pay for my lunch, because my lunch is prepared by our group.
    Please do not hesitate to ask me anything, I’ll change the plan according to your requests.
    Thank you for your understanding and please stay connected.

    Jun 1, 2026
    John_W
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    A top day with a top guide
    My wife…

    May 27, 2026
    Annabelle_C
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima in a day
    Yuji was a great communicator…

    May 12, 2026
    satishp656
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    HIROSHIMA HALF DAY TOUR
    Yuji is a warm, knowledgeble…

    May 10, 2026
    StephanieB6076
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Incredible Experience
    We had an incredible experience visiting Hiroshima…

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

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

    Tour Itinerary

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

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

    Transportation cost per person

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

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

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

    Transportation cost per person

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

    I had worked in the international business scene for over 40 years and traveled to North America and European countries over 1000 days.
    After I retired from the business, I traveled to most of the major sightseeing spots in all 47 prefectures in Japan.

    My guide is starting from a brief history of the site where I am going to guide. I usually add a briefing about Japanese culture based on religions, such as Shinto Shrine and Buddhist temples. A geographic background behind the history is also important.
    My course includes 4 to 5 (in 6 hours) sites from the following depending on where I will pick the guests up;
    – Senso ji Temple
    – Kappabashi Kitchenware Market
    – Tokyo Skytree
    – Ueno Park
    – Nezu Shrine
    – Imperial Palace outer park
    – Tokyo Central Station, Marunouchi historic district
    – Tsukiji Fish Market
    – Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    – Ginza
    – Odaiba
    – Hama Rikyu Garden
    – Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
    – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
    – Roppongi
    – Meiji Shrine
    – Harajuku & Takeshita Street
    – Shibuya
    – and Any of your interest.

    I am happy to introduce Japanese Manga/Anime cultures such as Akihabara, Nakano Broadway and Ghibli related sites.
    Travelling along the JR central line where guests can stopover at major animation studios (it is not accepted to visit the inside). The majority of animation studios such as TMS Entertainment, SUNRISE, A1 Pictures etc. are located in this area. Suginami Animation museum, Studio Ghibli and Ghibli Museum are also located.
    Guests can feel old houses in the Spirited Away scene in the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.

    I can also provide a pilgrimage to the sacred place (shooting location) for the Shinkai Makoto animation movies such as Your name, Weathering with you, and Suzume.

    Another interesting feature is to visit authentic Japanese style pub meals such as Yakitori, Karaage, and Sushi etc.
    Asakusa Hoppy Street, Ameyoko Street, Yurakucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku Golden gai, Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho are nice to visit.

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

    In addition to the above, I am available in the neighboring cities.

    Kawagoe is an old town developed in the 17th century. It has very close relationship with the Edo central government. Kawagoe castle ruins, Kitain temple and 500 Buddha statues will welcome the guests.
    These areas are renovated and provide an old days atmosphere.
    Japanese style sweets food stands will fascinate the guests.
    Kawagoe is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    Kamakura is the first Samurai worriers government established in the late 12th century.
    The Buddhism are introduced to Japan in the 6th century, and flourished at Nara and Kyoto later. A newer Buddhism sect such as Zen has well developed at Kamakura area.
    Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Gigantic Buddha statue at Kotokuin Temple and the flower temple Hasedera Temple are must-see.
    Kamakura is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    I am also happy to develop any other site the guests have interest.

    Sep 24, 2026
    Leslie_R
    Good tour on first day
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Ted, our guide was…

    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

    Jun 26, 2026
    ann r
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Educational with kind, generous guide
    My teenage sons and I learned…

    Jun 14, 2026
    141yunb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
    We…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Pontocho & Kyoto Imperial Palace

    Kyoto in One Day: Pontocho & Kyoto Imperial Palace

    Tour Itinerary

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

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

    My name is Shuji, meaning “Excellent Manager” in English. I was born in Hiroshima 1952. I have 2 children and 3 grandchildren.
    After graduating Kyoto Univ. I joined Mitsubishi-UFJ Bank, Osaka Branch where I met my wife who was a master of Englsih, so I started studying English.
    The bank allowed me to go to Columbia Graduate business school in New York and got MBA Degree there. I worked in London and Manchester Branch.
    During staying in U.K., I was introduced by BBC and Financial Times News Paper about my achievement there. I was selected as a personal assistant and interpreter for the President of the Bank.
    I made many business trips with him to overseas countries. I experienced as an interpreter for meeting late Henry Kissinger and the President of Citi. Corp.
    I changed the job to ORIX corporation, there I was promoted to a Board Member. When the company had acquired Dutch company, I was a member as an accountant to check the Dutch company’s statements of accounts.
    My hobbies are cooking, singing a song, playing tennis & golf, enjoy seeing arts especially opera & musical, travel. I am also busy with taking care of grandchildren. I passed Government Licensed Guide Exam. in 2016. After I retired in 2017, I started guide job as a part timer. So far, I accomplished guide job more than 500 times.
    My area coverage is from Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji to Kyoto, Nara, Oaka, Hiroshima. I am also able to guide Tea Ceremony, Maiko/Geisha, Sushi Making, Calligraphy, Sumo, Samurai, etc. I can speak excellent English. My knowledge is very wide and deep about not only sightseeing places but Japanese History, Culture, Religion, Daily Life. I know many foreign countries and people. I love talking with all kinds of people including babies with interesting humor.
    By the way, I look young for my age of 74.

    Sep 16, 2026
    Nusret_K
    See the best of Tokyo for a few hours
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide…

    Jul 16, 2026
    salomons666
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto fun
    Amazing with our guide Shuji very kind and acknowledge

    Jul 15, 2026
    P9099TXkennethr
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    A great day
    A great day in the Company of mr. Shuji.

    Jun 28, 2026
    A
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    AmyfromPlano
    Shuji is the best! Once we booked this tour, he reached…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:30 Meet up @Hotel Kyoto
    • 2. 8:50 @Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 3. 10:45 @Arashiyama (Bamboo Grove・Tenryu-ji Temple)
    • 4. 11:45 @Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 5. 12:30 Lunch @Gontaro
    • 6. 14:10 @Gion Shirakawa
    • 7. 14:30 Disband @Hotel Kyoto

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

    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!

    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…

  • Sapporo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Sapporo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:50 Meet@Hotel Sosei Sapporo MGallery Collection
    • 2. 9:05 Hokkaido Jingu Tongu Shrine
    • 3. 9:25 Nijo Market
    • 4. 9:55 Tanukikoji
    • 5. 10:55 Shiroi Koibito Park
    • 6. 13:00 Lunch@Aburiya (Bisse)
    • 7. 13:55 Former Hokkaido Government Office
    • 8. 14:05 JR Tower Observation Deck
    • 9. 14:45 Sapporo Clock Tower
    • 10. 15:20 Dismissal@Hotel Sosei Sapporo MGallery Collection

    Title: What Is a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Sapporo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan. They were very earnest, listening carefully to my explanations and asking thoughtful questions. The group nodded enthusiastically throughout my talks and remained calm and attentive, which made for a very smooth and enjoyable tour. Apart from the transfer to Shiroi Koibito Park, the entire tour was on foot. My pedometer recorded over 20,000 steps, and although I said, "Please let me know if you get tired of walking," and was a little concerned about it, the group ended up walking with me for more than six hours, for which I was truly grateful.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOdori Park Station~Miyanosawa Station290JPY
    Section 2SubwayMiyanosawa Station~Odori Park Station290JPY
    Total580JPY

    I was born and raised in Hokkaido and have been a resident of Sapporo for over 30 years. I have been actively involved in guiding tourists around the scenic spots of Hokkaido, primarily focusing on Sapporo. Even before becoming a licensed interpreter guide, I engaged in volunteer activities to assist and guide foreigners, providing me with valuable opportunities to delve into the rich culture and history of Hokkaido.
    Hokkaido is renowned for its exceptional culinary scene, and I am well-versed in gourmet information. I believe I can offer an excellent experience by guiding individuals through the highly acclaimed food experiences that Hokkaido has to offer.

    Aug 15, 2026
    I654RPsandib
    Great experience
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We thoroughly enjoyed our 6 hours touring Sapporo with…

    Apr 22, 2026
    Agent PT A
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Super Sapporo in April with Tom.
    Tom was kind…

    Feb 10, 2026
    Alan_C
    Very enjoyable and well…
    Viator review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Very enjoyable and well worth it. Our…

    Sep 24, 2025
    saratW9816BN
    Tour up to the Moiwa mountain and lots more
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We’ve had…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Rikugien Garden

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Rikugien Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ Prince Park Tower Tokyo
    • 10:40 Asakusa (Kaminarimon ~ Nakamise ~ Sensoji Temple ~ Okuyama Amairimachi)
    • 12:00 Shopping on Kappabashi Street
    • 13:00 Lunch @ Tajimaan
    • 13:40 Kappabashi Street (Pick up personalized knife at Kamaasa)
    • 14:00 Nezu Shrine ~ Hebi-michi ~ Yanaka Ginza
    • 15:45 Rikugien Garden
    • 17:00 Dismiss @ Shibakoen Station

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Kappabashi, Yanaka, and Rikugien The guests were visitors from North America, visiting Japan for the first time. Before their arrival, I held a preparatory meeting to explain the history of Japan and Tokyo and the geography of the city, and we confirmed the itinerary before setting out. The guests were highly curious and looked forward to food and shopping. In Asakusa they enjoyed candied sweet potatoes; in Kappabashi they purchased two kitchen knives (having names engraved took nearly an hour, which put us over time) along with small tableware; on Hebi-michi they bought traditional Japanese accessories; in Yanaka they enjoyed cat-tail-shaped doughnuts and rice crackers; and at Rikugien they purchased a matcha and Japanese sweets set. There were also many questions about Japan's cultural background, social systems, and customs, which I enjoyed answering as well. Since it was Coming of Age Day, the guests were delighted to see "real" Japanese people in furisode kimono at Nezu Shrine. As they planned to head from Shibuya toward Shinjuku the next day and to visit Hakone the day after, I gave them directions and travel tips before we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa Line Daimon~Asakusa Line Asakusa220JPY
    Section 2TrainJR Nippori~JR Komagome146JPY
    Section 3SubwayMita Line Sengoku~Mita Line Shibakoen272JPY
    Total638JPY

    Hello! My name is Hideki Maruyama. I was born in Osaka and raised in the Greater Tokyo area. I obtained my National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate in February 2016.
    I spent 23 years working at a leading Japanese automotive company, including 7 years posted overseas. I then worked for a German premium automotive manufacturer for 13 years, followed by 6 years as an advisor to a British energy company. Through these roles at global corporations, I developed and refined key skills such as:
    1. Cross-cultural communication
    2. A deep understanding of business elites and affluent customers
    3. The ability to deliver impactful and impressive presentations in English
    In addition to my regular duties, I often served as an interpreter for top executives during meetings with foreign government officials. I also had opportunities to introduce aspects of Japan—such as our national character and consumer preferences—to leadership teams in both the German and British companies.
    As a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding guests from a wide range of countries especially after the pandemic, including the US, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Ireland, Norway, Sweden, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

    Jun 14, 2026
    tiffany_w
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Phenomenal experiance
    Hideki san was an amazing guide. He was incredibly knowledgable…

    Jun 13, 2026
    Joshua_A
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The Best Guide I Had in Japan
    Hideki was, without question, my…

    May 2, 2026
    Bruce G
    Our guide (Hideki san) was a master. It was a rainy day and he suggested a new plan in anticipation…

    Apr 30, 2026
    johnbD9596UO
    Lovely Private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I had a great…

  • Nara in One Day: Ukigumo Enchi & Kofukuji Temple

    Nara in One Day: Ukigumo Enchi & Kofukuji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:18 Kintetsu-Nara Station (Start of Tour) but the guests arrived late
    • 11:47 Start
    • 2 taxis one of them misunderstood and went to the wrong place
    • 12:20 Ukigumo Enchi
    • 12:40 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate)
    • walk 10 minutes
    • 13:00 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall
    • walk 10 minutes
    • 13:30 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower
    • walk 10 minutes
    • 13:40 Todaiji's Nigatsudo Hall
    • 14:00 lunch at Emado Chaya?)
    • walk 10 minutes
    • 15:20 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill: former katana sword manufacturer's shop
    • walk 10 minutes
    • 16:00 Kasuga-taisha Shrine (UNESCO World Heritage)
    • entrance: 700 yen
    • walk 20 minutes
    • 16:40 Kofukuji Temple
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 17:10 back at Kintetsu-Nara Station (End of Tour)

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Nara Like from Kyoto? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from Oceania spanning a wide range of ages. I had explained in detail beforehand how to take the train from their hotel in Kyoto to Kintetsu Nara, and even the night before I received a message via a messaging app saying they would definitely take that train. Even so, the guests became quite confused and their arrival was considerably delayed. On top of that, one of the two taxis they split into went missing, resulting in one problem after another. Even so, members of the group showed great interest in everything, and I found myself explaining things I would not usually cover. It was also lucky that the entire course could be walked, even by the oldest and youngest members of the group, though at a fairly slow pace. They seemed truly delighted, telling me it was the first time they had ever experienced a tour like this. According to the driver of the taxi I rode in (the one that did not go missing), "That person (the driver who ended up going to the wrong place) is a little hard of hearing, so he sometimes makes decisions on his own." I intend to make a gentle complaint to the taxi company tomorrow, but I suspect the aging of drivers is the underlying cause. It is really not something I can dismiss as someone else's problem.

    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.

    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…