Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in One Day: Arashiyama & Fushimi Inari

    Kyoto in One Day: Arashiyama & Fushimi Inari

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet up @MONday Apt. Premium Kyoto Station
    • 11:45 Arashiyama stroll ( From Hankyu Arashiyama to Togetsukyo Bridge, bamboo grove, and Tenryu-ji Temple visit )
    • 13:00 Quick lunch @ standing eatery at Randen Arashiyama Station
    • 14:15 Nijo Castle visit
    • 15:30 Fushimi Inari visit
    • 16;50 Disband @Keihan Kiyomizu-Gojo

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour from a Hotel Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama, Fushimi Inari, and Kiyomizu-dera The guests were a group visiting from North America. The tour was originally scheduled for a different day but was moved up by one day at the guests' request, as the original day's forecast called for rain all day. At the hotel meeting point, one of the guests explained that the group did not mind keeping strictly to time, and we agreed that we would cover as much as possible within a rough timeframe and that they would continue on their own afterward. As mentioned, we started a bit behind schedule, leaving the hotel around 11:00, about 30 minutes late, and continued at a relaxed pace with several stops to buy and eat food along the way. Taking this into account, I adjusted the original plan and, instead of going from Arashiyama to Kinkaku-ji, we went directly to Nijo Castle (partly to minimize taxi use, since there were five of us including me). After that, we visited Fushimi Inari, with Kiyomizu-dera to follow if time allowed. This turned out to be the right decision. At the taxi stand near Kiyomizu-Gojo there was only one taxi available, so I told the driver the destination and we parted ways there. Throughout the tour the guests asked many questions and listened attentively to my explanations, and it was a good tour that they enjoyed. The way we said goodbye at the end was a little unfortunate, since I had intended to accompany them to the entrance of Kiyomizu-dera had there been two taxis available. However, this had been understood and agreed upon with the guests from the start, so I do not think it was any problem at all.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMunicipal Subway Uzumasa Tenjingawa～Nijojo-mae250JPY
    Section 2TrainKeihan Sanjo～Fushimi Inari220JPY
    Section 3TrainKeihan Fushimi Inari～Kiyomizu-Gojo150JPY
    Total620JPY

    Tour Report by Shoji

    My name is Shoji and I’m a tour guide in Kyoto, an ancient capital of Japan for more than one thousand years until the mid 19th century.
    I have been doing this work since 2019 covering not only Kyoto but also its surrounding areas like Nara , Osaka and Shiga.
    I am very much interested in Japanese history, culture and traditional arts.
    Kyoto and the Kansai region are rich with many heritage sites of historical and cultural features.
    I am sure that I can provide the guests with good insight and help them appreciate the charms of our wonderful city.

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    May 23, 2026
    Amber_D
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great walking tour in Kyoto!
    Shoji was a great guide around Kyoto.…

    Jun 25, 2025
    Safari35155142765
    Peaceful and perfect temple guided tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Brilliant private guided tour of Kyoto…

    Jun 22, 2025
    Global136391
    Shoji Ogawa Made Kyoto Come Alive!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    If you’re ever in Kyoto, you…

    Jun 9, 2025
    Amy_R
    Wonderful Nara tour
    Viator review: Private Nara Tour with Government Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Kyoto Departure)
    We had such a wonderful…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Yasaka Pagoda and Higashiyama Area

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Yasaka Pagoda and Higashiyama Area

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet @ Sakura Terrace The Gallery
    • 10:45-11:35 @ Nijo Castle
    • 11:55-13:15 @ Gion
    • 13:20-13:50 @ Yasaka Pagoda and Higashiyama Area
    • 14:00 Dismissal @ Near Ichinen-zaka

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Kyoto Higashiyama and Nijo Castle Walking Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania, visiting Japan for the first time on a trip of about ten days. [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. The original itinerary had included a walk through the Arashiyama bamboo grove, but since the guests had already strolled there the day before, we quickly rearranged the plan to visit the Yasaka Pagoda and the Higashiyama area instead. The guests had a mobile SUICA, so getting around by public transport was smooth. Nijo Castle was less crowded than expected, which made it easy to guide. After the walk, the guests told me that seeing a place on your own is completely different from seeing it with a guide who explains the historical background. When I was explaining the class schedule board of the kabuki practice hall in Gion, I was momentarily surprised to find that it still listed the December schedule. On the way from Gion toward the Yasaka Pagoda, we walked through the grounds of Kenninji Temple, and I explained topics such as the relationship between Zen and tea. Near the Yasaka Pagoda, the guests said they wanted some coffee, so we stopped by a cafe called Nitto-do KYOTO COFFEE, where they got coffee to take out and kindly treated me to a coffee as well. After that, at the guests' request, we parted ways near Ichinen-zaka.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto Station～Nijojo-mae Station260JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijojo-mae Station～Sanjo Keihan-mae220JPY
    Total480JPY

    Tour Report by Kaz

    Hi, thank you very much for choosing the JGA tour!

    My name is Kazuhiro Yoshida, please call me “Kaz”.

    I am an English-speaking National Licensed Tour Guide in Japan, and have been guiding mainly in Kyoto and other Kansai areas since April 2023. I have guided over 1,000 tours in total so far, and I am on my way to becoming one of the best English-speaking tour guides in Japan.

    I have a great passion to show people from all over the world, the deep histories and cultures of Japan, the country I truly love.
    I am focused to take you out on a tour that will become one of the best highlights of your entire trip.

    I am glad to have an opportunity to be your guide, and I hope that we can explore many hidden gems of Japan together!

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    May 19, 2026
    498stephenq
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    An enjoyable visit
    Really enjoyed our visit with Kaz. Friendly, informative, and…

    Apr 11, 2026
    V5131MFjodieh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kyoto morning tour with Kaz
    Kaz (Kazuhiro) guided my family in historic…

    Oct 14, 2025
    Scenic61154406959
    Great Historical Perspective
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoshida was excellent, he had a great knowledge of…

    Sep 29, 2025
    Jea L
    Excellent Tour of Kyoto with Kaz
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kaz was an excellent tour…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kyoto Imperial Palace & Horikawa Marutamachi

    Kyoto in One Day: Kyoto Imperial Palace & Horikawa Marutamachi

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at the Gion inn
    • 10:30-11:30 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 11:40-13:00 Imadegawa Station → Nijo Castle
    • 13:00-13:30 Break at the cafe inside Nijo Castle
    • 13:50-15:30 Horikawa Marutamachi → Ginkaku-ji Temple
    • 15:30-16:00 Ginkaku-ji Temple → Tour ends in Gion

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto History Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Since they were interested in history and mentioned they would be visiting the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, I recommended the Kyoto Imperial Palace, Nijo Castle, and Kinkaku-ji. A few days before the tour, I received a question about which of Kinkaku-ji and Ginkaku-ji was the original building. Because the guests wanted to see the original, I changed the destination from Kinkaku-ji to Ginkaku-ji. Keeping the walking pace comfortable, I made sure the guests would not become tired throughout the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusGion～Doshisha-mae230JPY
    Section 2SubwayImadegawa～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 3BusHorikawa Marutamachi～Ginkakuji-mae230JPY
    Section 4BusGinkakuji-mae～Gion230JPY
    Total910JPY

    Tour Report by Mizu

    Hello, my name is Mizuho Yoshikawa. Please call me Mizu and my name means rice and water in Japanese.
    I’ve been a tour guide more than 200 times since the spring of 2023 in Kobe, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Wakayama and Kochi. My tour is always original and new, depending on the guest’s preferences, encounters, seasons and weather.
    In Kyoto, one of my tours is to climb Mt. Kurama. It is about 1 hour from the city of Kyoto by train, it is a very quiet and beautiful mountain.
    In Osaka, which is called the kitchen of Japan, I am also in charge of food tour.
    In Nara, in addition to the Great Budda Hall, I guide guests to the temple with a really great view and Japanese wine, sake tasting.
    Every city has a unique charming point.
    The motto of my guiding is ” Ichigo Ichie” Once in a lifetime or seize the day. I learn this concept that the moment will never be the same again through tea ceremonies.
    I like a tea ceremony that is part of the traditional Japanese culture and embodies the spirit of “omotenashi” or hospitality. Through the tea ceremony, we can feel the spirit of “omotenashi” that has been passed down to us from ancient times.
    And I like to travel abroad and domestically, and I have been to 13 overseas countries and most of the prefectures in Japan. Traveling always gives me a new perspective, which is exciting and thrilling. Nowadays, we can learn a lot from the Internet, but traveling teaches us that it is important to have direct experience. When I travel, I feel that my five senses are infinitely expanded, and through my tour, I help all guests to have the same feeling in Japan.
    I was born and raised in Kanagawa Prefecture, which is next to Tokyo Prefecture in eastern Japan. When I was little, I could see Mount Fuji from my backyard. There was also a rice field nearby, and I grew up listening to the croaking of frogs. Listening to the frogs and seeing the mountains made me feel very calm.
    I moved to the city of Kobe, one of the Kansai areas in western Japan, which includes Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and so on. I’m not from the Kansai area of western Japan, but I think that makes me sensitive to the differences between that area and the Kanto area, Tokyo, where I grew up.
    Speaking of Kobe, you might be thinking of Kobe beef. Of course you do. There are also other sake breweries in Nada in Kobe. You can also go from Kobe city to Himeji Castle, also known as the White Egret Castle, which was the first in Japan to be listed as a World Heritage Site in 1993.
    Let’s meet and enjoy Japan together!

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    Sep 13, 2026
    946jakobr
    Mizu, as your guide in Koyoto, is the perfect guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed…

    Sep 5, 2026
    Sightsee18435593786
    De moeite waard👍
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Mizu heeft een mooie rondleiding geheven er werd…

    Jul 27, 2026
    OscarBrisenoJr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Awesome tour of Kyoto
    Seeing the temples and shrines…

    Jul 21, 2026
    MarcL3556
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful and Memorable Tour of Osaka with Mizu…

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Oowakudani

    Kanagawa in One Day: Oowakudani

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • <Itinerary>
    • 09:00am: To come to the lobby of Emblem Flow Hakone with a sign board your name written,
    • 09:06am – 09:35am: To move from Goura station to Oowakudani by Cable car and Ropeway,
    • 09:35am – 10:05am: Oowakudani sightseeing.
    • 10:10am – 10:35am: To move to Togendai by Ropeway,
    • 10:45am – 11:25am: Sightseeing boat (cruise) in Lake-Ashinoko,
    • 11:30am – 12:30pm: To take a lunch near Moto-Hakone port,
    • 12:50pm – 13:50pm: To see Hakone shrine,
    • 14:18pm – 15:00pm: To move from Moto-Hakone to Emblem Flow Hakone Hoel by Tozan bus and Tozan railway,

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private tour of the Hakone area for a group visiting from North America. It snowed a little during the day, which the guests also enjoyed. The group experienced the various modes of transport in Hakone (the Hakone Tozan Railway, the cable car, the ropeway, the sightseeing cruise boat, and the mountain bus), took in the scenery of Lake Ashi, and learned about the historical background of Hakone Shrine. They were also very satisfied with the Japanese food they had for lunch. In addition, we exchanged views on common Japanese customs and general knowledge, and I felt they had an enjoyable time. Everyone showed great curiosity about various Japanese customs and history and asked many questions actively, making for a very fulfilling tour. Regarding the receipt matter: With respect to the point you raised, that the Hakone Free Pass was billed at 5,000 yen while the receipt shows 10,000 yen, the situation is as follows. I purchased passes in advance at Odawara Station by credit card for a total of five people, the four guests and myself. At that time, I made the purchase at the ticket machine in two separate transactions, one for three adults and one for two adults. The attached receipt is for the two-adult portion. Because I picked up the guests in the morning at a hotel near Hakone-Gora Station, I purchased the passes in advance at Odawara Station. I received the 2,000 yen for the four guests' portion from them in the morning. That is the full account of the matter.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassHakone 2-Day Free Pass～From Odawara Station to Hakone area5,000JPY
    Total5,000JPY

    Select a guide: enter the WordPress Guide post ID or Guide ID in the block settings.

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  • Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 12:30 Meet up @ Hotel Monterey Himeji
    • 2. 12:35 @ Castle View
    • 3. 13:00 @ Himeji Castle
    • 4. 15:30 @ Koko-en Garden
    • 5. 16:20 @ Nadagiku Sake Brewery
    • 6. 17:00 Disband @ Omizosuji Shopping Street

    Title: What Is a Private Himeji Castle Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: Today's guests were visitors from North America on their first trip to Japan. They were traveling in Japan for about three weeks and had already visited Tokyo, Niseko, Kyoto, and Hiroshima before this tour. Since I knew the guests had arrived in Himeji well before the scheduled tour start time, I contacted them and we began the tour earlier than planned. After explaining an overview of Himeji Castle at Castle View, we headed to Himeji Castle. The castle was very crowded today. Perhaps for this reason, the viewing route through the main keep was reversed from the usual direction, which felt a bit unusual. After touring the main keep, the guests wanted to eat some snacks they had brought, so I asked them to wait until we exited through the Himeji Castle shop (some guests, if you're not careful, start eating at Bizenmaru). Because eating the snacks took some time, our visit to Kokoen Garden ended up being later than expected. After this, we went by taxi to Nadagiku Sake Brewery, but we had missed the brewery tour time (which ends at 4:00 pm), so we visited only the shop (the tasting corner). After the tasting, the guests also purchased some Nadagiku products. After Nadagiku, we returned to Himeji Station by taxi, and since the guests wished to find somewhere to eat, I took them to the Omizosuji shopping street and ended the tour. There were various little challenges along the way, but the guests were pleased.

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

    Tour Report by Norio

    Hello, my name is Norio Oki, a Government-Certified Tour Guide in Japan.
    I specialize in guiding visitors through the beautiful and historic regions of Himeji and Kobe.

    My expertise includes Japanese history, traditional culture, castles, and sake. I enjoy sharing not only facts, but also the stories and spirit behind each place.

    In Himeji, I offer guided tours of Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden, Shoshazan Engyoji Temple, and Nadagiku Sake Brewery.
    In Kobe, I guide guests through the Nada Sake Breweries area, Mt. Rokko, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, Harborland, Meriken Park, the Kitano District, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, and the lively Motomachi Shopping Street.

    Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local experiences, I will create a personalized tour tailored to your interests.

    If you’re planning to visit Himeji or Kobe, I would be delighted to be your guide.
    I look forward to meeting you soon!

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    Sep 29, 2026
    X
    X1794ZGstevew
    Kobe 4hr guided tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Norio pickup us up ontime &…

    Sep 17, 2026
    jacquelinecI8863UY
    No rush beautiful walking tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a wonderful time. Norio…

    Sep 15, 2026
    niy679
    Kobe day trip
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had an amazing tour with Norio. He…

    Jul 7, 2026
    77guye
    The best way to experience Himeji Castle
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    What a great way to…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Meiji Jingu Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Meiji Jingu Shrine

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:55 Hotel
    • 09:30 Asakusa
    • 10:30　Akihabara
    • 12:00 Tsukiji
    • 13:00 Lunch at Ginza
    • 14:20 Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 15:00 Tour ends at Harajuku Station

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. They were staying in Tokyo only for the day and were heading to Osaka the following day. The itinerary was created based on their requests, but since the Tsukiji Outer Market was closed on this day, I informed them of this before starting the tour. At Sensoji Temple, there was some crowding due to the New Year's first shrine visit, but we were able to worship as usual without having to wait in line. In Akihabara, the guests purchased character goods at Animate and the Radio Kaikan building. We also stopped by Yodobashi Camera near the station, and while some of the guests took a break at a cat cafe, another purchased bone-conduction headphones. After visiting the Tsukiji Market, we moved to Ginza and had lunch at a tempura and ramen restaurant. At Meiji Jingu Shrine, the area from the large torii gate along the main approach past the turn up to the third torii gate was packed with people, and it was impossible to move forward, so we gave up on worshipping there. I explained the location of Takeshita Street and how to return to the hotel from Harajuku, and we ended the tour in front of Harajuku Station.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGinza～Asakusa209JPY
    Section 2TrainTawaramachi～Suehirocho178JPY
    Section 3TrainAkihabara～Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 4TrainGinza～Meiji-jingumae178JPY
    Total743JPY

    Tour Report by Harry

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in One Day: Ryoanji Temple & Shinsen-en Garden

    Kyoto in One Day: Ryoanji Temple & Shinsen-en Garden

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00　Meet up＠Suiran Kyoto
    • Travel　Keifuku Train
    • 10:00～10:40　Ryoanji Temple
    • Travel　Taxi
    • 10:50～11:30　Kinkakuji Temple
    • 11:30～12：00　Lunch＠Hokurokutei
    • Travel　Taxi
    • 12:15～13：30　Nijo Castle
    • 13：40～13：50　Shinsen-en Garden
    • Travel　Kyoto Municipal Subway, Keifuku Electric Railway
    • 15：00　Disband＠Suminokuracho

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Ryoan-ji, Kinkaku-ji, and Nijo Castle When I met the guests at the Hotel, we chatted casually after leaving the Hotel, talking about things like when they had arrived in Kyoto and how long they planned to stay. Partway through, one of the guests mentioned needing to be guided to a hospital at the end of the tour to refill a prescription. I explained that, being the start of the year, almost no hospitals would be open, and asked whether after the tour would be acceptable, which they confirmed. I told them we would look for a hospital after arriving at our first destination, Ryoan-ji. On the train, I checked Kyoto City's holiday medical services and found that the relevant clinics were closed, so after arriving at Ryoan-ji I called the Kyoto Prefecture holiday medical center, which suggested a certain hospital. When I called there, however, they were unable to help. Since the guests had said earlier that they would be in Kyoto for another two or three days, I promised that if they could get through the weekend, I would show them the location of my regular clinic near the Hotel, which would reopen from the 6th. The guests were very fond of the overall quiet atmosphere at Ryoan-ji. At Kinkaku-ji, they were moved by the beauty of the golden pavilion. For lunch, I asked whether they would prefer ramen or udon, and since they had never tried udon, they chose udon, so we went into a shop in front of Kinkaku-ji. They were delighted to try udon for the first time. At Nijo Castle, the guests seemed very interested in samurai culture, listened attentively to my explanations, and asked many questions. Since we had time, they strolled leisurely through the Honmaru Garden, Seiryu-en Garden, and other areas. At Shinsen-en, they took photos enthusiastically. On the way to Nijo Station on the subway, we passed a charming Japanese sweets shop and a vintage clothing store, and they stopped by. We then took the train and got off at the station nearest my regular clinic. The guests were very curious, and at one point tried to pick up a flyer posted at the entrance of a house for sale, apparently wanting to know the price of a single-family home in Japan. I then showed them the clinic and pharmacy, and we walked toward the Hotel. At just the right point, we reached a spot where the guests could find their way back on their own, so we said goodbye there. There were various unexpected events, but I sincerely hope they are able to receive their medicine safely.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainArashiyama～Ryoanji250JPY
    Section 2TrainNijo～Uzumasa Tenjingawa220JPY
    Section 3TrainRanden Tenjingawa～Rokuoin250JPY
    Total720JPY

    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…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Harukas Garden & Sumiyoshi Taisha

    Osaka in Half a Day: Harukas Garden & Sumiyoshi Taisha

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    January, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet up @Hotel Osaka
    • 11:00-11:50@Osaka Castle, Hokoku Shrine
    • 12:15-12:30@Harukas Garden
    • 12:50:13:30@Sumiyoshi Taisha
    • 14:00 Disband @Namba Station ticket gate

    Can You Do a Private New Year's Day Tour in Osaka? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. On the evening before the tour, they had traveled from Tokyo through Kyoto and arrived at their hotel in Osaka. Since they were scheduled to return to Tokyo by shinkansen at 3:00 on the day of the tour, they had to move around carrying their overnight luggage as well as a large plush toy they had won at a game arcade in Dotonbori the previous day, which looked a bit inconvenient for them. However, the weather was blessed with clear, bright skies, and although they were surprised by the long line of worshippers at Sumiyoshi Taisha, they enjoyed a typical Japanese New Year experience. To make sure they would not miss the 3:00 shinkansen, we ended the tour a little earlier than planned.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinsaibashi～Tanimachi 4-chome190JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Tennoji240JPY
    Section 3TrainTennoji Station Front～Sumiyoshitorii-mae230JPY
    Section 4TrainSumiyoshi Taisha～Nankai Namba240JPY
    Total900JPY

    Tour Report by Sachiko

    I’m Sahiko Ogura, Sachiko literally means ‘happy child’, please call me Sachiko or Sachi for short. I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been guide for 6 years mainly in Osaka, Kyoto and Nara after having worked far trading company. I love traveling and visited about 30 countries, where I had a great time and experienced something new and exciting. I also like sports, tea ceremony and gardening, I’m growing veritable and flower in my garden. Please let me know your interest and anything what you would like to do during your tour. I’m happy to make an itinerary customized for you.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you and exploring in my home town!

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    Sep 26, 2026
    Y
    yolanda552
    Sachiko the best tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Sachiko was our tour guide…

    Sep 9, 2026
    peteraI5718XP
    My First Visit to Osaka
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    I enjoyed seeing Osaka through Sachiko’s…

    Sep 4, 2026
    S
    satchithh
    Hasabnis family
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sachiko or Choko Ogura is a…

    Aug 3, 2026
    G6602NEeduardoa
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Osaka Tour with Sachiko
    We had a great Osaka…

  • 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

    • 8:00 Meet up at Hotel Granada Roppongi　9:00 Senso-ji Temple　10:00 Harajuku (pet cafe, purikura)　11:30 Shibuya (Hachiko, crossing, Mega Don Quijote)　13:00 Shinjuku
    • 13:45 Finish at Roppongi Station

    What's a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Harajuku, Shibuya, and Shinjuku The guests were a group who were very friendly and easy to talk with. When I took them to Sensoji Temple, which had not been part of the original plan, they enjoyed it even more than expected. In Harajuku, one of the guests had wanted to visit a dog cafe, but it was too crowded to get in, so instead we went to a guinea pig cafe, which they were happy about. They also enjoyed the purikura photo booths more than anticipated. We moved to Shibuya and stopped by a large discount store that had not been on the original itinerary, which they also liked, and they did a lot of shopping there. After moving to Shinjuku and seeing the giant cat video display and Godzilla, we had covered everything they wanted to see, and since the group was getting tired from walking, I saw them off at Roppongi Station, the nearest station to their accommodation, ending the tour. Along the way I casually suggested stopping for a meal or a coffee break, but they did not stop anywhere, and I think walking the whole time was quite hard on their feet.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainRoppongi～Asakusa209JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa～Omotesando252JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku～Shibuya146JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya～Shinjuku167JPY
    Section 5TrainShinjuku～Roppongi220JPY
    Total994JPY

    Tour Report by Shinji

    Before I started the guiding job in 2022, I had worked for private companies and been engaged in overseas business, which led me to be stationed in various English-speaking countries. Taking advantage of such experiences and also wishing to reciprocate the kindness extended to me during my career, I have decided to help visitors to Japan enjoy their stay and obtained a national guide license.
    I am very honored and pleased to assist guests from overseas and enjoy seeing them having a great time visiting interesting spots in Japan and learning about the country. I look forward to serving more new guests and seeing them smile at the end of my private tours.

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    Jun 8, 2025
    T1516LOmarkg
    Tokyo tour
    Tripadvisor review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Great tour, Shinji was great, they…

    Feb 28, 2025
    LaToya_S
    Mr. Shinji is so nice and…
    Viator review: Kamakura 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mr. Shinji is so nice and…

    Feb 27, 2025
    Edward_M
    Friendly and Knowledgeable Tour Guide
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide was knowledgeable and friendly!…

    Feb 17, 2025
    Trip29223434750
    Heavenly Hakone with an angelic guide
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    For those not wanting to…

  • 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. 8:00 Meet up @Four Points
    • 2. 9:20 @Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • 3. 11:00 @Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 4. 12:30 @Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 5. 14:00 Disband @Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Starting at 8:00 AM? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan who loved taking photographs. Since each of them had their own wishes, the initial request included as many as 11 locations, so I explained that four would be the maximum and they kindly narrowed the list down. Because the tour started at 8:00, Fushimi Inari Taisha would already be crowded regardless, so I decided to start from the more distant Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple. Even though I had carefully checked the bus schedule, the bus, which runs only once an hour, was already full and we could not board. However, since there were also some members of a youth baseball team who could not board, an extra bus was arranged. There were many hikers, and when I asked one of them, it seemed that many of them were setting out on their first mountain climb of the season. Right next to Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple is Mount Atago, whose deity protects against fire, so I imagine many people go there to receive protective charms. In any case, the extra bus was completely empty, so we could all sit down and travel comfortably to Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple, which delighted the guests. Everyone was quite moved. After Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple, we walked leisurely to the bamboo grove, had a snack at the Randen station, and went to Kinkaku-ji. Since we were running behind schedule, I explained about Fushimi Inari Taisha on the train during the ride, and we managed to arrive at Fushimi Inari Taisha at 14:05. I explained the return route and a chopstick shop, took a commemorative photo together, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKarasuma～Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 2BusArashiyama～Atagodera-mae230JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama～Kitano-Hakubaicho250JPY
    Section 4BusKitano-Hakubaicho～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 5BusKinkakuji-michi～Enmachi230JPY
    Section 6TrainEnmachi～Inari200JPY
    Total1,380JPY

    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…