Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ Hotel
    • 9:40 Meiji Shrine
    • 10:20 Takeshita Street
    • 11:00 Shibuya (Midori-no-Madoguchi, Shibuya Crossing)
    • 12:20 Asakusa (Nakamise, Senso-ji Temple)
    • 13:00 Disband @ Senso-ji Temple

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Harajuku, Shibuya, and Asakusa The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. They had arrived just the day before, but since the time difference was only three hours, they were in good spirits. One of the guests mentioned being a big fan of Hello Kitty character goods, but unfortunately the Sanrio shop on Takeshita Street had not yet opened, so I introduced another Sanrio store. After that, we went to the ticket counter in Shibuya to exchange the Japan Rail Pass, but since they had many day trips planned from Kyoto, it took some time. In Asakusa, one of the guests grew tired, so after visiting the main hall of Senso-ji Temple, we parted ways. They said they had a reservation for the Skytree in the evening, so it seemed they would enjoy a relaxed lunch before heading there.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAkasaka-mitsuke～Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku～Shibuya160JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya～Asakusa260JPY
    Total600JPY

    Tour Report by Rumi

    Hello,
    I’m Rumi.Welcome to Japan!!
    I’m a government-licensed guide in the Tokyo area.
    I’m so excited to have a chance to show you my favorite places in Tokyo.
    Tokyo is a fantastic city with many aspects like history,culture and food.
    What interests you about Tokyo?
    What kind of Japanese food would you like to try?
    I’ll take you to various places according to your request.
    My favorite spot is Meiji Shrine.
    It’s so peaceful that I’m sure you like it.
    I really like to talk with foreigners about various topics.So, I love my job.
    I look forward to meeting and guiding you soon.

    Request Booking

    Sep 29, 2026
    Darrin_T
    Tokyo Tour with Rumi
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Local tour guide Rumi took…

    Sep 29, 2026
    anettesoegaardn
    Rumi Hosoya is a very good tour-guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our guide was Rumi…

    Sep 25, 2026
    Frances_K
    Rumi was a wonderful…
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Rumi was a wonderful guide that provided…

    Sep 19, 2026
    K6328IFcarolinel
    Tokyo highlights
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Had a great day
    Rumi was very…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Gion

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Gion

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel meet
    • 9:25 Nijo Castle
    • 11:20 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 12:30 Gion
    • 12:45 Tour ends after lunch guidance

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nijo Castle and Gion The guests were visiting Japan for the first time. They mentioned that they found Tokyo to be quite lively and busy. Since they were interested in history and geisha culture, I guided them to three locations. At Nijo Castle, visitors can go inside, so they were able to see the details up close, and they said they enjoyed it very much. When I explained about the shogun and the emperor, they listened with great interest. I guided them through the Tatsumibashi Bridge area, and on the way to Hanamikoji Street we came across a sushi restaurant, where they kindly invited me to join them for lunch. Unfortunately, I was not able to join, which was a shame.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGojo (Kyoto Municipal)～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijojo-mae～Imadegawa220JPY
    Section 3SubwayImadegawa～Sanjo Keihan260JPY
    Total700JPY

    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!

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Tokyo: Tsukiji

    Tokyo: Tsukiji

    Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 05:00 Meet at Toyosu Market Building No. 7, District 7
    • 05:00-05:30 Beforehand, explanation of related information such as tuna catching methods, how the auction proceeds, collection methods, and the roles of wholesalers and intermediate wholesalers
    • 05:30-06:00 Watch the tuna auction
    • 06:00-07:00 Sushi breakfast at a sushi restaurant inside Toyosu Market
    • 07:00-07:15 Move to Tsukiji
    • 07:15-08:00 Stroll through Tsukiji Inner Market
    • 08:00 Disband at Tsukiji

    What Is a Private Toyosu and Tsukiji Fish Market Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a very close-knit group visiting Japan from North America. They enjoy fishing themselves and had experience catching yellowfin tuna back home, so they were very interested in the tuna auction. From the very start of the tour, they asked many questions, and we had a lively and enjoyable conversation. They were especially curious about how the intermediary wholesalers judge the quality of the tuna, and they were delighted when I explained, adding some behind-the-scenes stories I had heard from the wholesalers themselves. For breakfast at a sushi restaurant, the guests both enjoyed a tuna-focused course and were impressed, saying the medium-fatty tuna "melts in your mouth." They mentioned that they often go to sushi restaurants back home, but that the price there is more than three times that of Toyosu while the quality is less than half, so they were very satisfied with the sushi at Toyosu. At Tsukiji, we visited the intermediary wholesaler's shop, and I also introduced some recommended shops in Tsukiji. They looked very happy walking around and exploring the area even after the tour.

    Click here for more details: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusToyosu Market / Toei Bus～Tsukiji 6-chome / Toei Bus210JPY
    Total210JPY

    Tour Report by Toru

    Hello, I am Toru, a certified National Guide. I have been guiding since 2017, primarily in the Tokyo area, which includes Hakone, Kamakura, and Yokohama. To make your stay in Japan unforgettable, I always discuss a tour plan with my guests via email before their arrival. Please share your preferences, including the places you’d like to visit and the experiences you’d like to try during your stay in Tokyo. If this is your first visit to Japan, I’m excited to help make your time in Tokyo even more enjoyable by suggesting sample itineraries and offering travel tips.

    For more information about me, please visit my profile site.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/hello-welcome-to-japan/
    For your reference, please feel free to visit my blog, which features popular sightseeing spots and interesting experiences.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/

    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Request Booking

    Sep 25, 2026
    robert_s
    Fantastic experience!
    Viator review: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide
    We had a tour booked with Toru…

    Sep 24, 2026
    Pamela_S
    Ask for Toru!
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our travel date for this tour…

    Sep 13, 2026
    S4579HLmaxf
    An unforgettable morning at Toyosu
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide
    Outstanding experience at the…

    Sep 7, 2026
    Victor_G
    All the temples and…
    Viator review: Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    All the temples and shrines were fantastic.…

  • Tokyo: Takeshita Street & Tokyo Midtown Supermarket

    Tokyo: Takeshita Street & Tokyo Midtown Supermarket

    Tokyo Family-Friendly Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:45 | Meet (HNO Garden Tower 6F Lobby), Ice Break, Itinerary Confirmation
    • 10:00 – 10:20 | Purchase PASMO at Akasaka-mitsuke Station. Due to a machine malfunction, we were unable to purchase it in the end and gave up.
    • 10:45 – 11:00 | Stroll along Takeshita Street.
    • 11:00 – 11:40 | Capybara & Neko Cafe in HARAJUKU
    • 11:40 – 11:55 | Shopping on Takeshita Street. Sanrio Shop
    • 12:00 – 12:50 | Lunch: Gluten free T's Kitchen in Harajuku
    • 13:00 – 14:00 | Meiji Shrine Stroll
    • 14:10 – 14:25 | Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Hachiko
    • 14:45 – 15:15 | Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck
    • 15:40 – 16:00 | Tokyo Midtown Supermarket Stroll, Shopping
    • 16:00 | Tour ends at Tokyo Midtown

    Title: What's a Private Family-Friendly Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from Oceania visiting Japan for the first time during a school break. They had first entered through Osaka, enjoyed Kyoto and Tokyo Disneyland, and moved to their hotel on the morning of the tour. They first wanted to purchase a children's transportation IC card (PASMO), so we attempted to buy one at Akasaka-mitsuke Station, but due to a machine malfunction it could not be issued. As a note, PASMO cannot be purchased from ticket machines and must be issued at the station office, and a passport must be presented for the purchase. The main focus of this trip seemed to be the younger members of the group. The capybara café had been a strong request, so the guests were very delighted. At the Sanrio shop, they were impressed by the wide selection and bought souvenirs. One of the guests could only eat gluten-free food, so we had lunch at a restaurant with gluten-free certification. After that, the Shibuya Scramble Crossing and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building observation deck also left a strong impression. Since we progressed faster than the original itinerary, we moved to a supermarket in Tokyo Midtown, where the guests enjoyed shopping while experiencing Japanese food culture firsthand. The tour ended at Tokyo Midtown, but the guests wished to continue shopping within Midtown afterward. They returned to their hotel by taxi on their own.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Family-Friendly Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainAkasaka-mitsuke～Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku～Shibuya160JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya～Tochomae340JPY
    Section 4TrainTochomae～Roppongi220JPY
    Total900JPY

    Tour Report by Atsushi

    Hi everyone! I’m Atsushi.
    Born in the historic fishing port of Shiogama in Miyagi Prefecture and raised in Tokyo and Kanagawa, I’ve spent my life immersed in Japanese culture.
    During my six years in the countryside as a university student, I fell in love with hiking and visiting temples.
    After graduating with a master’s degree in agricultural science, I spent 40 years in R&D at a food manufacturing company before transitioning from part-time guiding to becoming a full-time professional tour guide at the end of 2025.
    My true passion lies in Japan’s rich culinary and sake traditions.
    I specialize in FIT tours around Tokyo and Hakone, and I even lead sumo culture tours!
    I’m dedicated to making your journey truly unforgettable, and I look forward to helping you get the absolute most out of your stay in Japan.
    I can’t wait to meet you!

    Request Booking

    Aug 28, 2026
    trentw546
    Fantastic
    Tripadvisor review: Kappabashi Knife & Kitchen Town Tour with Licensed Guide
    It was fantastic I would definitely book again

    Aug 8, 2026
    49christopht
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Individual guided tour
    Atsushi was very responsive and thorough…

    Jul 27, 2026
    25stephn
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Highly recommend this tour!
    Atsushi was an absolutely phenomenal…

    Jul 23, 2026
    melanierK3084ZH
    Tripadvisor review: Asakusa & Yanaka Local Street Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Wonderful Senso-ji tour
    Atsushi was a wonderful guide! My…

  • 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

    • 0900 Went to pick up guests at what seemed to be an Airbnb vacation rental (5 minutes from Nishi-Shinjuku 5-chome Station on the Toei Oedo Line), but the building sign I had seen beforehand on Google Street was gone, so I wandered around the area a few times. Somehow I contacted them via WhatsApp in front of what I thought was the place, and we managed to meet safely.
    • 0930 Tsukiji Outer Market, Kabuki-za Theater, Ginza 4-chome Intersection
    • 1110 Imperial Palace Outer Garden, Tatsumi Yagura Turret, Gyoko-dori Avenue, Marunouchi Building pine piles, Tokyo Station
    • 1215 Akihabara, Radio Kaikan, Don Quijote, lunch at Sushiro
    • 1345 Asakusa, Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise, Senso-ji Temple, Kaminarimon Gate
    • 1500 Tour ended within the temple grounds
    • Since we were heading in the same direction on the way back, I saw them off to Nishi-Shinjuku 5-chome Station and said goodbye

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour with a Licensed Guide Like? A Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. Some of the guests had visited Japan two years earlier as part of a school trip, but for the others it was their first visit to Japan. Following prior contact, I had checked their accommodation, a private lodging booked through an online rental platform, using Google Street View, but when I actually arrived the building sign had been removed. I walked back and forth in front of it two or three times, and since there were nail holes on the wall where a sign had been, I contacted them via a messaging app and we were able to meet without trouble. The group had arrived two days earlier, and the previous day they explored Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Harajuku on their own. The next day they planned to visit places such as teamLab, and the following week they would travel around the Kansai region before returning home. At the Tsukiji Market, they started with tamagoyaki, then enjoyed wagyu skewers, and had seconds of sashimi. They also sampled strawberry daifuku and takoyaki. I thought they might skip lunch, but they had a hearty meal at a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant. They seemed to enjoy anime-related things. The previous day they had visited the Pokémon shop in Shibuya Parco and a One Piece store, and they said they would take their time visiting the Tokyo Character Street I introduced today and Akihabara, which we visited, the next day. At Asakusa the weather was poor, and only about a third of the Skytree was visible. They mentioned they had gone to the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building the previous night, and they were glad they had (it would not have been possible today).

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNishi-Shinjuku-gochome～Tsukiji Market280JPY
    Section 2SubwayGinza～Nijubashimae180JPY
    Section 3TrainTokyo～Akihabara160JPY
    Section 4SubwaySuehirocho (Tokyo)～Asakusa180JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa～Nishi-Shinjuku-gochome330JPY
    Total1,130JPY

    Tour Report by Ted

    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.

    Request Booking

    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: Maeda Coffee Kodaiji Store & Kodaiji Temple

    Kyoto: Maeda Coffee Kodaiji Store & Kodaiji Temple

    Kyoto Early Morning Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 07:00 Maeda Coffee Kodaiji Store
    • 07:30 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 09:00 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 10:30 Kodaiji Temple
    • 11:00 Hotel (Tour End)

    Title: What's an Early-Morning Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided two friends visiting from North America. Since I had received advance notice that they had an early start and would not be able to have breakfast at their hotel, I recommended a café near the hotel, where we met up. On the way to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the Yasaka Pagoda and Sannenzaka were almost empty of people, and the guests both enjoyed taking their time with photography. Kiyomizu-dera was also relatively uncrowded, and we were able to take beautiful photos from the Okunoin with the temple's wooden stage in the background. There was also no wait at the Otowa Waterfall, and since the guests both drank the water of Otowa, I told them, "Your wishes are sure to come true." Afterward, we headed to Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. Perhaps because it was the off-season, it was not crowded even after 9:00, so we took photos with the Senbon Torii in the background. At that moment, sunlight streamed onto the plaques at the top of the torii gates, allowing us to capture wonderful photos, which delighted the guests very much. At the inner shrine, they also purchased many amulets as souvenirs. I guided them to Kodai-ji Temple as an alternative to the bamboo grove in Arashiyama, and it seemed we were able to take photos there that satisfied them as well. Afterward, since they wished to rest at their hotel and then stroll along Teramachi Street in the afternoon, we ended the tour in front of the hotel. It was fortunate that we were able to finish the tour before the heat became too intense.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Early Morning Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusGojozaka / Kyoto City Bus～Tofukuji230JPY
    Section 2TrainTofukuji～Inari150JPY
    Section 3TrainFushimi Inari～Gion-Shijo240JPY
    Section 4TrainShijo (Kyoto City)～Higashiyama Yasui / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total850JPY

    Tour Report by Umi

    Hello! My name is Umi. I was born and raised in Kyoto, and I still live here today.

    I have always loved traveling. When I visit another country, I enjoy learning about its history, culture, and way of life from local people. Talking with locals helps me understand a place much better than simply visiting famous sights. That’s why I became a tour guide.

    Through my tours, I hope to help visitors gain a deeper understanding of Japan. In addition to its beauty and traditions, I am also happy to talk about modern life in Japan. My goal is for my guests to leave Japan with wonderful memories and a deeper appreciation of the country.

    I’m looking forward to meeting you!

    Request Booking

    Jun 29, 2026
    U3009CHlaurad
    Kyoto 4 Hour walking Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Umi was a great tour guide, very…

    May 9, 2026
    Adventurer745194
    Lovely intro to Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a lovely morning guided by Umi.…

    Apr 30, 2026
    jonathangG3501FZ
    4 hour private tour in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Umi was a lovely tour guide…

    Apr 27, 2026
    Jennifer_S
    Wonderful, thoughtful guide
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Umi was absolutely wonderful. She…

  • Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama by Car

    Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama by Car

    Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama by Car with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:00　Meet up @ Yokohama Osanbashi Pier
    • 2. 9:00　@ Workman Omori Kannana Store
    • 3. 10:30　@ Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko, Starbucks Coffee)
    • 4. 10:50 　@ MEGA Don Quijote
    • 5. 11:50 　Lunch @ Maruman (inside Shibuya FUKURAS)
    • 6. 13:00　@ Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • 7. 13:30　[From the car window] @ Tokyo Station (Marunouchi side station building)
    • 8. 13:45　@ Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 9. 14:20　@ Uniqlo Ginza Store
    • 10.　16:00 Dismissal @ Haneda Airport Garden Entrance

    # What's a Private Shopping-Focused Tokyo Day Tour Like from Yokohama? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. In our prior communication, they had expressed a strong interest in Japanese workwear, so they requested an itinerary that included a stop at a workwear store. When we departed from Yokohama Osanbashi Pier, it was raining quite heavily, so I planned to visit the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace later in the tour when the rain would hopefully ease. As a result, the first stop after entering Tokyo was a Workman workwear store in the Omori area. Just from shopping here, the group was so delighted that it felt as though we had nearly accomplished the main goal of the tour. They purchased many pieces of workwear, including a fan-equipped jacket. By the time we arrived at Shibuya next, the rain had lightened, and the group was able to experience crossing the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing and were moved by the story of the Hachiko statue. At Mega Don Quijote, everyone in the group purchased many souvenirs, cosmetics, and snacks, and they were once again very satisfied with the shopping. After that, a little earlier than planned, I guided them to the restaurant floor on the 6th floor of Shibuya Fukuras for lunch. Among the various options, they focused on chicken dishes and chose a Kagoshima-style restaurant called Maruman. Everyone enjoyed their meals as delicious. One of the guests ordered a large charcoal-grilled rice bowl, saying "I eat a lot," but once they started eating, they became oddly quiet. Saying "the seasoning is good, but…", I suspect the charcoal-grilled thigh meat may have been a bit too tough, as about half was left uneaten. Afterwards, although it was not originally a scheduled drop-off point, since one of the guests wished to "see a beautiful place" and we had some time to spare, we stopped in front of the Nijubashi Bridge at the Imperial Palace for a stroll before heading to the East Gardens. Since the focus was on gardens, I concentrated the tour on the Ninomaru Garden. The final highlight stop was the Uniqlo store in Ginza, requested strongly by one of the guests. This guest had become a big fan of Uniqlo after purchasing its products during a trip abroad in their student days. While others in the group said they did not understand why Uniqlo was so popular, they were carried along by the enthusiasm and purchased a few items for themselves as well. Others in the group explored elsewhere. Everyone in the group achieved their individual goals with today's shopping right before their departure, and we parted ways at Haneda Airport with great satisfaction.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Noripy

    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!

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    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…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Kuromon Market

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Kuromon Market

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 14:00 Meet at Hotel
    • 14:40 Osaka Castle
    • 16:45 Kuromon Market
    • 17:30 Disband at Dotonbori

    What's a Private One-Day Osaka Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Kuromon Market, and Dotonbori Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. They had already visited Tokyo, Hakone, Hiroshima, and Kyoto, with Osaka being their final stop. Osaka Castle was not very crowded, so we were able to see it at a relatively relaxed pace. One of the guests showed great interest in the exhibits. After that, we went to Kuromon Market and Dotonbori. They mentioned that they had also made a reservation for a river cruise the following evening, and they seemed very intrigued by it. Although we had changed the start time, they mentioned that they had not yet had lunch and expressed a wish to have a late lunch, so we ended the tour a little early, but I believe they enjoyed themselves.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTennoji～Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Nippombashi (Osaka)190JPY
    Total430JPY

    Tour Report by Kaeko

    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.

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    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…

  • Kyoto: Arashiyama & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto: Arashiyama & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto Early Morning Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:00 Hotel Meet (@BnA Alter Museum)
    • 7:00-7:30 Travel (Hankyu Railway; Kyoto-kawaramachi → Arashiyama)
    • 7:30-8:30 Arashiyama walk (Togetsukyo Bridge, Kameyama Park, Bamboo Grove, Nonomiya Shrine)
    • 8:30-9:20 Travel (Keifuku Railway; Arashiyama → Kitano-hakubaicho, City Bus; Kitano-hakubaicho → Kinkakuji-michi)
    • 9:20-10:00 Kinkaku-ji visit
    • 10:00-10:20 Travel (City Bus; Kinkakuji-michi → Nijojo-mae)
    • 10:20-11:00 Nijo Castle visit
    • 11:00 Tour ends. Said goodbye to the guests at Nijo Castle

    What Is a 4-Hour Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji, and Nijo Castle The guests were a group visiting from North America. It was their first time in Japan. Although it was a short 4-hour tour, I took them to Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji, and Nijo Castle. The schedule was quite tight, but thanks to the rainy weather the sites were fairly empty, so the tour went quite smoothly. The guests were also understanding, and we proceeded with a slightly faster walking pace. Even the younger members of the group had no particular trouble keeping up. The bamboo grove and Nijo Castle seemed to be especially popular with them. They were also delighted to receive a goshuin (temple seal) at Kinkaku-ji.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Early Morning Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto-kawaramachi～Arashiyama (Hankyu Line)240JPY
    Section 2TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)～Kitano-hakubaicho250JPY
    Section 3BusKitano-hakubaicho～Kinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4BusKinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus～Nijojo-mae230JPY
    Total950JPY

    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.…

  • Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. Meet @ Hilton Nagoya lobby 9:00
    • 2. Move to Nagoya Castle and view the Honmaru Palace and the area around the castle keep 9:00-10:40・・Move to Nagoya Castle by subway
    • 3. Move to Atsuta Shrine and view the area around the main shrine, the Treasure Hall, and the Kusanagi-kan 10:40-12:15・・Move to Sakae by taxi, then move from Sakae to Atsuta Shrine by subway
    • 4. Move to Mirai Tower (Sakae) and view the area around the tower 12:15-12:40・・Move to Mirai Tower by subway
    • 5. Move to Hilton Nagoya (Fushimi) and disband at the hotel lobby 12:40-13:00・・Move to Hilton Nagoya by subway

    What's a Private Nagoya Tour Focused on History Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nagoya Castle and Atsuta Shrine The guests were a group visiting from North America. Beforehand, I had learned that they were interested in Japan's ancient history and had specifically requested that Nagoya Castle and Atsuta Shrine be included in the itinerary. Accordingly, I first guided them through Nagoya Castle and Atsuta Shrine in sequence, and with the remaining time, I showed them the area around the Mirai Tower in Sakae. At both Nagoya Castle and Atsuta Shrine, I took ample time to carefully explain the historical background of each site's founding, which the guests greatly appreciated. At Atsuta Shrine in particular, they were very pleased when I explained the flow of Japan's various historical eras while looking at a panel describing the 1,900 years of history since its founding, and when I translated and explained the Japanese narration of a movie at the Kusanagi-kan while they watched. It was a valuable opportunity to guide guests with such a strong interest in Japanese history.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayFushimi (Aichi)～Nagoya Castle210JPY
    Section 2SubwaySakae (Aichi)～Atsuta Jingu Nishi240JPY
    Section 3SubwayAtsuta Jingu Nishi～Sakae (Aichi)240JPY
    Section 4SubwaySakae (Aichi)～Fushimi (Aichi)210JPY
    Total900JPY

    Tour Report by Todd

    Hello, guests of JGA tours, I’m Takao (Todd) Miura, a national licensed guide of Japan.
    I have experiences as a professional guide over 5 years. The themes in which I’m well versed include castles, Japaneses landscape gardens, museums, festivals, and traditinal Japanese arts and crafts.
    Nagoya City and Aichi Prefecture, where I live, have many attractive sites to visit. I would like to introduce you to the most popular sites and spots in this area.
    I really wish to have a very nice time with you as a guide of your tour in Nagoya and Aichi Prefecture.

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    Feb 16, 2026
    B9190RXcolleenm
    The Nagoya walking tour was great!
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Todd was the perfect…

    Oct 2, 2025
    Jeffrey_B
    Nagoya with Todd Miura
    Viator review: Nagoya / Aichi Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    A great 4 hour…

    Sep 17, 2025
    sjhppy
    Todd Was A Fabulous Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    I highly recommend Todd! He…

    Jul 22, 2025
    guelphturfgrassinstu
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    We enjoyed this tour with a knowledgeable guide. Todd shared…