Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meeting point: Hotel Granvia Kyoto
    • 09:15 Travel to Nijo Castle by two taxis
    • 09:30 Sightseeing ①: Tour of "Nijo Castle"
    • 10:30 Travel to Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple by two taxis
    • 11:00 Sightseeing ②: Tour of "Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple"
    • 11:30 Travel to Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple on foot
    • 11:50 Sightseeing ③: Tour of "Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple"
    • 12:30 Travel to JR Saga-Arashiyama Station by two taxis
    • 12:40 Travel to Kyoto Station by JR
    • 13:00 End of guided tour (in front of the hotel)

    What Is a 4-Hour Private Kyoto Tour by Taxi Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a multi-generational group visiting from North America, on the 10th day of their trip to Japan. Advance planning of the itinerary, including the places to visit, was coordinated through messaging with one member of the group. It was originally a short 4-hour course, and the destinations were clear from the outset: the requested route was Nijo Castle, then Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple, and finally Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple. One consideration was that public transportation such as trains, subways, and buses would be too demanding for the group. I therefore advised, "Considering everyone in the group, I recommend traveling by taxi," and the guests agreed. On the day, we were able to meet a little earlier than the appointed time, and completed a brief self-introduction and confirmation of the itinerary. Everyone in the group appeared cheerful and in good spirits, which was reassuring. A baby stroller had been prepared in case walking became tiring, which gave us added peace of mind in case anyone became sleepy. As mentioned above, we moved entirely by hailing two taxis as needed at each location, which allowed us to travel in a relaxed and safe manner. At Nijo Castle, we toured the interior of the Ninomaru Palace and viewed the Japanese garden, which everyone in the group seemed to enjoy. At the second and third stops, Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple and Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple, we went around looking at the comical rakan statues and also enjoyed the bamboo grove. Above all, the rain from the previous days had cleared up, and there was plenty of shade to walk in away from the sun, so everyone was able to stay comfortable, which was the best part of the day. The group spent the time cheerfully, and there were no moments of fussing or crying. It was a fun tour, and I was glad to guide this multi-generational group.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSaga-Arashiyama～Kyoto240JPY
    Total240JPY

    Tour Report by Nori

    Hi, everyone! I’m Norifumi Kamon, a government registered guide interpreter. Please call me “Nori”, or “Kamon-san”.
    Let me introdece myself. I was born on April 17th in 1952 in Miyazaki prefecture in Kyushu island. I used to be an English teacher of Osaka Prefectural high school. When I retired from a teacher ten years ago, I decided to get a professional guide license. I wanted to play a role of the bridge between Japanese people and the people from all over the world as a second life of mine. After two years efforts, I finally got the guide license. Since then, I have guided several handreds of foreign people mainly in Kyoto and Nara for about five years except Corona Pandemic period. Almost all the tourists were deeply impressed by the beauty of nature, traditoin, culture, and art of Japan. I can surely help you enjoy and be satisfied with the sightseeing in Japan. And I’m looking forward to seeing you soon.

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    Aug 10, 2026
    Paul_H
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kind and knowledgeable guide – highly recommended
    Nori communicated…

    Apr 9, 2026
    Ron_W
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We saw so much in the…
    We saw so much in the…

    Mar 24, 2026
    zackn719
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Knowledgeable guide and a great tour
    We did our private tour with…

    Oct 20, 2025
    66speech
    Highlights of Kyoto.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience with Nori. Nori exceeded our expectations with…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Goo Shrine

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Goo Shrine

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:50 Meet @ Nijo Castle entrance
    • 8:50-10:30　Nijo Castle (including light meal for guests)
    • 11:00-12:00　Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 12:15-12:40　Goo Shrine
    • Dismissal @ Goo Shrine

    What Is a Private Kyoto History Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nijo Castle and Kyoto Imperial Palace Before the tour, there was a question in the pre-tour communication asking whether I held a guide license. The meeting time was also changed a couple of times, and the guests said they wanted more time to think it over, so I felt anxious right up until the day of the tour. The meeting was finally set for 8:40 in front of Nijo Castle, but on the morning of the tour I received a message asking to push the start back by 25 minutes. Fortunately, the guests arrived by taxi at 8:50, so the start was not delayed by much. Since the guest introduction noted a request for "a guide who is knowledgeable about history," I prepared some materials based on the visual guide Japanese history timeline provided by the company, with a few additions of my own. First, I explained beforehand that although Kyoto was the capital for a long time, the period during which the imperial family actually held political power was short, that there were three warrior governments, and the relationship between the shogun and the emperor. After entering Nijo Castle and explaining the Karamon gate, it became apparent that one of the guests had recently been injured and wanted to walk while taking frequent rests. The two younger members of the group listened to my explanations at first, but as the other guests were asking many enthusiastic questions and I was responding to them, they probably found it a bit dull. For much of the time, they were talking among themselves. After walking around the Ninomaru Palace, since the guests had gone to Kiyomizu-dera in the morning and had not had breakfast, they said they wanted to eat somewhere, so I guided them to the simple dining hall at Nijo Castle. They seemed to enjoy curry and wagyu beef sandwiches, and ate them happily. One of the guests took a liking to mango juice and said it was delicious. After that, we admired the Ninomaru Garden and decided to go to the Kyoto Imperial Palace. Considering one guest's condition, we decided to take a taxi. Here again, some of the guests were talking among themselves, so I mainly guided the others. Like me, they were especially moved by the Oike Garden, and some of the guests stopped for a while to watch the carp and birds. Finally, since one of the guests seemed to have an injured leg, we decided to stop by Goo Shrine, known for legs and lower back. The guests did not seem to have any objection to visiting a shrine as a tourist attraction, but they asked me, "What exactly are people praying to?" and at first I did not understand what they were asking. According to the explanation from one of the guests, who follows a particular faith that worships a single god, they could not understand why Japanese people worship at shrines in so many different places. I explained that Japanese people regard all sorts of things in nature as deities, and that real historical people are also revered as gods. This once again made me realize that when religions differ, what seems obvious to us is not obvious at all. When it was time to part, I stamped a Goo Shrine pamphlet for the younger members of the group and gave them character stickers as a souvenir before saying goodbye. The photo was taken at the Oike Garden of the Kyoto Imperial Palace.

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

    Tour Report by Satoko

    I am a 54-year-old woman, living in Kyoto for nearly 40 years. I got the license in 2001. Since then, I worked as an interpreter or a translator in several companies, secretary at universities, and now work for a company on weekdays at the international dept.I do guiding job only weekend now. I started full swing guiding career after COVID-19 pandemic. I have gotten good review from many of my guests. I love my hometown, Kyoto which has a lot of interesting and historical sites to see. Particularly, I am native to Arashiyama which is famous for bamboo forest. So, I know a lot of places where you can relax yourself around this area. Other than that, Kyoto has many attractive sites which surely interest you.Also, I like meeting many people from different cultural background. I am very happy if I learn about your culture as well. Let’s enjoy exploring around Kyoto!

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    May 18, 2026
    WENDY_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent day out
    The trip was really well planned and organised, it…

    Sep 21, 2025
    joshsJ915FC
    Super tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Really wonderful tour of markets and geisha district.…

    Jun 16, 2025
    Chanyl C
    Highly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My husband and I really enjoyed the Kyoto tour.…

    May 18, 2025
    Steve J
    A relaxing, enjoyable visit to Arashiyama.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Satori was very kind and…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Hyatt Place Kyoto & Kinkakuji

    Kyoto in One Day: Hyatt Place Kyoto & Kinkakuji

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hyatt Place Kyoto
    • 10:30 Fushimiinari by Subway & JR train
    • 11:30 Kiyomizudera (500) by taxi
    • Sannenzaka by walking
    • Yasaka-no-to by walking
    • 14:30 Lunch（Kura Sushi Kinkakuji Store）
    • 15:00 Kinkakuji (500) by taxi
    • 16:00 Hyatt Place Kyoto
    • End of the tour

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kiyomizu-dera and Kinkaku-ji The guests were friends visiting from North America, though they were originally from the Middle East. The morning was a little chilly, but it cleared up toward midday and the sunshine became strong. We had cold drinks in front of Chawan-zaka near Kiyomizu-dera, though one of the guests skipped Kiyomizu-dera and spent time along the approach instead. They had initially said they would not eat lunch, but since they wanted to sit down at a restaurant and use the restroom, we went to a conveyor-belt sushi place near Kinkaku-ji. At first they said they would like somewhere with a beautiful garden, but I suggested saving that for another occasion. Once we arrived, both of the guests turned out to love eel, ordering the same eel three times. As they were also feeling a bit tired from walking, after Kinkaku-ji we took a taxi back to the Hotel and ended the tour there. Neither of the guests was particularly interested in history.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMarutamachi (Kyoto Municipal)～Kyoto260JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Total410JPY

    Tour Report by Kazz

    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!

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    Sep 25, 2026
    Marvin_F
    Kazz is an outstanding…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Kazz is an outstanding experiencedand friendly…

    Sep 21, 2026
    Laura_K
    Day in Kyoto with Kazz
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazz was an amazing…

    Aug 27, 2026
    M6034YWthomasm
    Worth it
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    The day went by so quickly, a…

    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Awesome experience
    Tour guide Kazz was great. Very informative and showed…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Takeshita Street

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Takeshita Street

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet the guests at the hotel
    • 9:40 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 11:30 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, Kaminarimon, Nakamise, main hall, lunch
    • 13:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 14:30 Takeshita Street
    • 15:00 Tour ends

    What Does a Private Tokyo Tour of Tsukiji, Asakusa, and Meiji Shrine Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. After praying at Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, they visited the outer market. While strolling, they enjoyed coffee, sweets, wagyu skewers, and sashimi, and had a wonderful time. In Asakusa, at the Culture Tourism Center, I explained the history of Asakusa and the surrounding buildings, and then the guests walked from Kaminarimon Gate through Nakamise while taking photos at many spots. Along the way, they tried drawing omikuji fortunes, and one of the guests was delighted to draw the best fortune. After praying at the main hall, we had lunch at a Japanese restaurant. At the next stop, Meiji Shrine, I explained the history of Emperor Meiji and the shrine, and after entering, we proceeded while I provided explanations at various points, and the guests were moved by the sacred forest. After praying at the main sanctuary, on Takeshita Street they showed interest in the unique shops and seemed likely to return later. I guided them to the train to their hotel, and the tour came to an end.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGotanda～Tsukiji330JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji～Asakusa210JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa～Meiji-jingumae260JPY
    Total800JPY

    Tour Report by Shigeru

    I am a certified guide-interpreter based in Tokyo.
    I was born and raised in Tokyo, so I am familiar with Tokyo and its surrounding areas. Please leave anything related to the Tokyo area to me.
    Tokyo is not only full of Japanese charm but also has many unique aspects.
    The always-bustling Tsukiji Outer Market conveys Japan’s food culture.
    Asakusa conveys Japanese traditions and culture through old temples, shrines and long-established stores.
    Shibuya spreads Japanese pop culture.
    You can immerse yourself in history and culture in the quiet natural surroundings such as the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace or Meiji Shrine.
    Tokyo is a treasure trove of attractions for travelers. Please come and experience the wonderful Tokyo with me.

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    Sep 29, 2026
    532yeldarbs
    Insights to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    We were fortunate to have had…

    Sep 28, 2026
    G3219WFjoshp
    A great day with Shigeru!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Shigeru is a fantastic…

    Sep 28, 2026
    E8957WUnathanb
    Great day in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Shingeru was great and very…

    Sep 23, 2026
    scottmR2068WG
    Tokyo walking tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had an excellent time being…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Kinkakuji Temple

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Kinkakuji Temple

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet at Kyoto Station (The customer took the wrong train and arrived at Kyoto Station 1 hour late)
    • 11:00-11:20 Transfer (JR; Kyoto Station → Inari)
    • 11:20-12:10 Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 12:10-12:40 Transfer (Keihan Train; Fushimi Inari → Keihan Shichijo)
    • 12:40-13:30 Visit Sanjusangendo Temple
    • 13:30-13:50 Transfer (Kyoto Bus: Higashiyama Shichijo → Gion)
    • 13:50-14:40 Visit Gion and Yasaka Pagoda
    • 14:40-15:20 Transfer (City Bus; Keihan Shijo-mae → Kinkakuji-michi)
    • 15:20-16:10 Visit Kinkakuji Temple
    • 16:10-17:00 Transfer (City Bus; Kinkakuji-michi → Kitaoji Bus Terminal, Subway; Kitaoji → Kyoto Station)
    • 17:00 End of tour Said goodbye to the customer at Kyoto Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Kyoto Day Tour from Osaka Port for Cruise Passengers? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were an older group from Europe. It was their first visit to Japan, and they arrived as cruise ship passengers from Osaka Port. I had sent them transfer information from Osaka Port to Kyoto in advance, but they boarded the wrong train and arrived at Kyoto Station about one hour late. Since they had contacted me through a messaging app to let me know they would be late, I could not simply leave, so we ended up starting the tour one hour behind schedule. I considered ending the tour at the originally planned time, but decided instead to finish one hour later than scheduled. I took them to Fushimi Inari, Sanjusangendo, Gion plus Yasaka Pagoda, and Kinkakuji. A visit to Yasaka Pagoda had not originally been planned, but the guests requested to see it during our visit to Gion, so I took them there on short notice. Since they wanted to visit as many places as possible, the tour did not include a meal arrangement, but because we kept walking in heat that felt like midsummer, I arranged just a drink break along the way.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari～Keihan Shichijo/Queen Line180JPY
    Section 3BusHigashiyama Shichijo/Kyoto Bus～Gion/Kyoto Bus230JPY
    Section 4BusGion-Shijo～Kinkakuji-michi/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 5BusKinkakuji-michi/Kyoto City Bus～Kitaoji Bus Terminal (Subway Kitaoji Station)/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 6SubwayKitaoji～Kyoto260JPY
    Total1,280JPY

    Tour Report by Michi

    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 !

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    Aug 4, 2026
    Elie_S
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Wonderful and informative walking tour with Michi
    We had a lovely…

    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.…

  • Nakasendo Magome to Tsumago Day Hike

    Nakasendo Magome to Tsumago Day Hike

    Nakasendo Magome to Tsumago Day Hike with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at the lobby of Onn Nakatsugawa, a hotel in Nakatsugawa Station city.
    • 8:45 Purchase the post-tour Limited Express Shinano tickets together at Nakatsugawa Station.
    • 9:10 Take the bus departing from Nakatsugawa Station to Magome.
    • 9:35 After arranging to send luggage to Tsumago at the Magome tourist information center, start walking toward Tsumago.
    • 13:20 Lunch at Otokichi in Tsumago.
    • 14:20 Stroll around Tsumago. You purchased items such as folding fans at a souvenir shop. Received the luggage sent ahead at the tourist information center.
    • 15:26 Take the bus to Nagiso Station.
    • 15:55 See off boarding the Limited Express Shinano departing at 15:55. You are planning to go from Nagoya to Kyoto.

    What Is a Private Walking Tour in Japan Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather was fine and the walk went smoothly, but since many photos were taken, it took quite a long time. For lunch, we ordered a set meal of mountain-vegetable tempura and soba. The conversation flowed and we lingered for a while, though some food was left uneaten, so I am not sure whether the meal suited the guests' tastes. The guests enjoyed talking about politics, and we had a lively conversation about Donald Trump. We also took plenty of time for breaks along the way, so the schedule ended up tighter than expected, but the guests said it turned out to be just the right pace after all.

    Click here for more details: Nakasendo Magome to Tsumago Day Hike with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusIn front of Nakatsugawa Station／Kitaena Kotsu～Magome／Kitaena Kotsu800JPY
    Section 2BusTsumago／Kitaena Kotsu～Nagiso Station／Kitaena Kotsu300JPY
    Total1,100JPY

    Tour Report by TAKU

    Gifu Prefecture, where I was born and raised, is located in the heart of Japan. It is home to many mountains exceeding 3,000 meters, and the historic Nakasendo (Samurai Road) runs through this dramatic landscape. Once a vital artery for travelers during the Edo period, the route still preserves the traditional atmosphere of that era, with many historical houses standing much as they did centuries ago. Walking along this path allows you to experience Japan’s original rural landscape—a distinct and refreshing contrast to the bustling former capitals of Kyoto and Nara.

    I also spent many years working in Nagoya, so I can guide you through the city with confidence. Nagoya is a treasure trove of historical landmarks, such as Nagoya Castle and Atsuta Shrine. Furthermore, the city is famous for “Nagoya-meshi,” a variety of delicious local specialties unique to the region.

    It is my great pleasure to introduce visitors to the depth of Japanese cuisine, history, and culture. Welcoming guests from all over the world is always a joy for me, and I truly look forward to guiding you and creating wonderful memories together.

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    Jul 14, 2026
    wandahB6389XA
    Tripadvisor review: Nakasendo Magome to Tsumago Day Hike with Licensed Guide
    The Nakasendo Trail: A beautiful blend of nature and culture.…

    May 26, 2026
    adamkO4340OC
    Tripadvisor review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Trail Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great trail with a fantastic guide
    Excellent experience with…

    May 18, 2026
    rubia_k
    Viator review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Trail Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nakasendo Trail
    Our guide Taku Hasegawa was so knowledgeable…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Takeshita Street

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Takeshita Street

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @Hotel
    • 10:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:30 Takeshita Street
    • 12:15 Harajuku~Ura-Harajuku~Omotesando
    • 14:30 Disband @cat street

    Title: What's a Private Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, and Shibuya Walking Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a family visiting from Europe. They had researched thoroughly online in advance and requested Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, and Shibuya, so I guided them accordingly. They had originally requested a 9:00 start, but since most shops in Harajuku open around 11:00, I explained this to the guests and they agreed to change the start time to 10:00. I first guided them through Meiji Shrine, and then we strolled around while browsing shops along Takeshita Street, the back streets of Harajuku, and Omotesando. As a family that enjoyed shopping, they stopped by many different stores. Along the way, they became hungry and asked to stop at a convenience store, where they bought a lot. They said many convenience store foods had been featured on social media and they wanted to try them. Since a nearby facility with a rooftop was close by, we ate there. There were places to sit and trash bins available, so it was a good spot to eat. When the time came, I took them to Cat Street, told them how to get to Shibuya, and said goodbye. I believe they were satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShiodome～Yoyogi220JPY
    Total220JPY

    Tour Report by Yoko

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

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

    I’m looking forward to hearing from you soon.

    Request Booking

    Sep 22, 2026
    grenfell69
    Half-day tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    While visiting Tokyo we chose the Customized…

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

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

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

  • Miyagi in Half a Day: Rinnoji Temple Garden & Sendai City Museum

    Miyagi in Half a Day: Rinnoji Temple Garden & Sendai City Museum

    Sendai & Matsushima Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:25 Visit Rinnoji Temple Garden
    • 11:25 Visit Shurinji Temple, Nio statues, Daikokuten
    • 12:15 Visit Zuihoden Mausoleum
    • 13:00 Tour Ryokusaikan
    • 13:20 Visit Sendai City Museum
    • 14:00 Tour ends at Omachi Nishi Koen Station on the Sendai Subway

    What Is a Private Tohoku Tour from Sendai Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the second time, and for this trip they chose the Tohoku region rather than Tokyo or Kyoto. Because they wished to visit quiet, distinctly Japanese spots rather than areas crowded with tourists, we selected Rinno-ji Temple in the Kitayama area of Sendai City. At Rinno-ji, the hydrangeas happened to be at their peak, and the guests remarked on the wonderful contrast between the purple flowers glistening in the light rain and the green of the temple garden. At Shurin-ji Temple, they viewed the jet-black Daikokuten statue and offered their own prayers for a bountiful harvest. Thanks to the temple's connection with a city in North America, English explanations were available, which the guests found very meaningful. The guests shared that it was a wonderful opportunity to experience firsthand the living Japanese culture that cannot be obtained through AI.

    Click here for more details: Sendai & Matsushima Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusSendai Station Front／Sendai City Bus～Rinnoji Temple Front／Sendai City Bus230JPY
    Section 2BusRinnoji Temple Front／Sendai City Bus～Sendai Station Front／Sendai City Bus230JPY
    Section 3OtherSendai Station Front／Sendai City Bus～Zuihoden Front／Sendai City Bus210JPY
    Section 4OtherZuihoden Front／Sendai City Bus～International Center (Miyagi)／Sendai City Bus210JPY
    Section 5TrainInternational Center (Miyagi Prefecture)～Sendai (Subway)210JPY
    Total1,090JPY

    Tour Report by Sanichi

    For all the guest who may have an interest on my career, This is Sanichi,a government certified guide interpreter, inaugurated my guide interpreter business career since 2023. My guide interpreter work include all aspect of business scene ranging from simultaneous interpretation at convent visitor, Tsunami-torn area guide tour,Municipal government supported exchange student welcome party official interpretation, International cruise ship on shore excursion guide, and so on, and keep doing business by fair and fast manner with reasonable cost without any prejudice against client’s objectives, race or gender.
    I can attend anyone, anywhere, anytime upon request! I’m confident that I’m a shoulder you may count on here in Japan!

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    Sep 12, 2026
    Alexandra_I
    Huge thanks to Sanichi…
    Viator review: Dewa Sanzan & Tsuruoka in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Huge thanks to Sanichi…

    Apr 3, 2026
    V2097LInickd
    Tripadvisor review: Sendai / Matsushima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    15,000 Steps thru Sendai History
    Sanichi is a very help…

    Jul 14, 2025
    carlanS8210WG
    Merveilleux !
    Tripadvisor review: Yamagata / Yamadera 6hr Private Trip with Licensed Guide
    La visite du château de Kaminoyama était très…

    Nov 23, 2024
    ym360
    Exploring Yamagata with Sanichi
    Tripadvisor review: Yamagata / Yamadera 6hr Private Trip with Licensed Guide
    Our guided tour with Sanichi was…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1100 Hikifune
    • 1120〜1300 Asakusa
    • 1320〜1510 Tsukiji
    • 1530〜1630 Kiyosumi-shirakawa
    • 1650〜1700 Ochanomizu

    What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, and Ochanomizu The guests were a group visiting from North America. They were staying at a two-story private lodging that had been converted from a traditional house. Inside, the first floor was a living room, and it looked very comfortable. One of the guests likes cleanliness and always brings a vacuum cleaner when traveling, but there was not a single speck of dust. This is one reason they love Japan. At first we intended to head to Asakusa from Higashi-Mukojima Station, but we accidentally boarded a Hanzomon Line train that had just pulled in. I was momentarily flustered, but with a calm face we transferred to the subway at Oshiage and made our way to Asakusa. At Tsukiji they had sushi, eel, and ice cream. "Once you know this taste, you can never eat sushi in the United States again, and the ice cream is completely different from what we have," they all said with excitement. After that, we went into a coffee shop that was once a favorite of John Lennon. Since this year marks 60 years since the Beatles came to Japan, I shared the anecdote about how a flight attendant managed to get John to put on a happi coat with the JAL logo five minutes before landing. One of the guests has experience in off-Broadway and streaming program production. Another of the guests specializes in theater history, and tomorrow they plan to watch "Kamahige" at the Kabuki-za. Some of the guests are in a band and had brought empty guitar cases all the way from home. At the end we headed to Guitar Street in Ochanomizu. I explained, "This is the place where water was offered so that the shogun could have tea," and we parted ways. I hope they find the guitars they like.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHikifune～Asakusa340JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Tsukiji290JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukiji Market～Kiyosumi-shirakawa220JPY
    Section 4SubwayKiyosumi-shirakawa～Ochanomizu180JPY
    Total1,030JPY

    Tour Report by Lance

    I have been working as a tour guide once a week since 2024.
    I grew up in Osaka and studied in Kyoto,
    I have been working for the lvestock division of the national organization of agricultural cooperatives.
    Japan depends on imports for most of its livestock feed ingredients.
    I visited 10 countries on business and stayed in New Orleans working for a subsidiary company for 3 years.
    I visited 10 other countries with my wife for sightseeing.
    I also started writing Haiku, Japanese traditional poem, after retiring.
    One of my favorite is ” Bundled up, you are like a Matryoshka.”
    Looking forward to see you!

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    Sep 24, 2026
    benoitlJ9021HN
    Perfect guide tour in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Lance was very nice…

    Sep 19, 2026
    H1282JBkarinas
    Great tour with Lance from Japan Guide Agency!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Lance our tour…

    Sep 10, 2026
    Silver_F
    amazing 8-hour walking tour with Lance!
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Lance was our…

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

  • Kyoto Top 7 Sights in 1 Day by Car

    Kyoto Top 7 Sights in 1 Day by Car

    Kyoto Top 7 Sights in 1 Day by Car with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • Genji Kyoto1000→1030Bamboo Path1100→1105Tenryu-ji Temple1130→1200Lunch Time (Kairikiya)1230→1245Kinkaku-ji Temple1330→1400Kiyomizu-dera Temple1500→1520Genji Kyoto1520→1550Gion Hanamachi Art Museum (dismissal on site)

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a family visiting from Europe. In response to the guests' requests, we made the most of a rare clear day during the rainy season and visited many spots along the itinerary that were perfect for commemorative photos, which was very well received. In particular, at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, which one of the guests had wanted to visit, I incorporated many stories to make the guiding memorable. For lunch, in response to a request to be taken to a ramen shop popular with local residents, I guided the guests accordingly. Instead of the geisha café originally requested, I took them to the Gion Kagai Art Museum, where they could enjoy a geiko and maiko performance, and I helped with purchasing the tickets.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Top 7 Sights in 1 Day by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by YOSHI

    Since I completely retired from my position at a railway company and started being involved in the tour guide interpreter business, I have experienced almost all types of guiding through FIT, Long Group Tours, Cruises (Shore Excursions), Incentive Tours, Special Interest Tours (Railway Travel, Pilgrimages), Familiarization Tours (Sales Promotion Tours) etc.
    However, I noticed that I am not fully satisfied to only be a general guide who just manages a tour itinerary provided by tour agents/clients.
    High-end guests have sometimes requested me to answer some enquiries that are actually challenging to answer for Japanese nationals. However, I appreciated those because they provided such a challenge and I felt that they wanted to understand my sense of beauty/values as a guide concerning a new culture for them.
    Every time I host my guest I do my best to prepare the most appropriate information based on three travel elements (appetite, logistics, accommodation). Nevertheless, I decided to aim for higher guiding skills after I was motivated by senior guides whose guiding strategies and gestures were particularly impressive.

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    Aug 7, 2026
    D1494MYdanielleg
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    One day walking tour in Tokyo
    Yoshi was great!…

    Aug 6, 2026
    dg89
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    Private Führung in Kyoto
    Die Tour mit Yoshi war…

    Aug 3, 2026
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    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A customized tour with guide around Kyoto
    We had…

    Jul 5, 2026
    788amarpals
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Top 7 Sights Private Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Private tour Guide in Kyoto- Mr Yoshi
    Mr.…