Category: Uncategorized

  • Kanagawa: Take photos at Owakudani

    Kanagawa: Take photos at Owakudani

    Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at the hotel. After discussing the day's itinerary, adjust the plans and then take the ropeway to Owakudani
    • 9:30 Take photos at Owakudani
    • 10:00 Join the Owakudani Nature Research Trail tour (40 minutes). Afterwards, buy souvenirs and eat black eggs.
    • 11:20 Move by ropeway toward Togendai
    • 12:00 Board the pirate ship and move to Hakonemachi Port
    • 12:35 Stop by a marquetry (yosegi zaiku) shop for shopping. Coffee break
    • 13:00 Pass through the Hakone Checkpoint and stroll along the cedar avenue of the old Tokaido
    • 13:20 Lunch at Moto-Hakone. Afterwards, shopping at a natural stone shop until boarding the sightseeing boat
    • 14:10 Move by sightseeing boat from Moto-Hakone to Hakone-en
    • 14:50 Head to the summit of Mt. Komagatake via the Ropeway/Ashinosora
    • 15:00 Enjoy strolling and taking photos at the summit of Mt. Komagatake
    • 16:10 Return to Hakone-en and shop at souvenir shops
    • 16:40 Move by bus from Hakone-en to Ubako
    • 17:00 The tour ends at the Ubako stop near the hotel

    Title: What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Owakudani, Komagatake, and Mount Fuji Views The guests were a group visiting from Europe. They arrived in Japan in April and traveled to Kyoto, Osaka, and Okinawa, reaching Hakone two days before the tour. We had discussed and agreed on the itinerary in advance based on their requests. However, on the day itself, they mentioned that they had already visited Hakone Shrine and the Hakone Open-Air Museum using a 3-day free pass, so after meeting up we discussed changing the itinerary. Since they wanted to take many photos in scenic locations, I proposed Mount Komagatake as an alternative. As the Hakone Free Pass could not be used there, I explained that it would cost an additional 4,000 yen or so per person, and we agreed on the revised itinerary. In the end, I believe the itinerary greatly satisfied the guests' wishes. We were also blessed with a clear, cloudless day, and they enjoyed the unusual scenery of the Owakudani Nature Research Path, Mount Fuji clearly showing itself along the way, the old townscape around the checkpoint, the natural scenery of the cedar-lined path, and the sweeping panorama from Mount Komagatake, taking many photos and videos. At the marquetry (yosegi zaiku) shop, they asked the staff many questions and carefully examined the items. In the end they purchased chopsticks, insisting that both the wood used and the craftsmanship had to be Japanese. The one challenge I felt was with the Owakudani Nature Research Path tour. The Japanese guide for the tour starting at 10:00 that day did not speak English, so I interpreted for the guests. About half of the explanation covered safety precautions, the history of the volcano, and the scenery, which I was able to interpret. However, the other half consisted of trivia-style topics understandable only to Japanese people, which went over very well with the Japanese participants but were very difficult to interpret. I was told that there are also several National Guide-Interpreters among the Nature Research Path guides, so if other guides join this tour, it would be a good idea to check in advance.

    Click here for more details: Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassHakone Free Pass～Within the Hakone area beyond Odawara6,000JPY
    Section 2OtherMoto-Hakone～Hakone-en1,200JPY
    Section 3OtherHakone-en～Mt. Komagatake summit2,200JPY
    Section 4BusHakone-en / Izuhakone Bus～Ubako / Izuhakone Bus600JPY
    Total10,000JPY

    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!

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    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…

    May 30, 2026
    M3248YQLinda
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Off the Beaten Path 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Introduction to Tokyo
    I was travelling with my…

    Apr 18, 2026
    BrightonKennedys
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Half-day in Tokyo
    We had a great half-day tour of Tokyo with…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: THE KNOT TOKYO Shinjuku

    Tokyo in Half a Day: THE KNOT TOKYO Shinjuku

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 THE KNOT TOKYO Shinjuku
    • 10:00 Exploring Shinjuku, West and East exits, Golden-gai, some more tips
    • 11:00 Exploring Ginza Nissan, Sony Tourist Center, Ginza alleys, Shrine
    • 12:00 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, Nakamise, Sensoji
    • 13:00 Asakusa Sanja Matsuri done

    What Topics Come Up During a Private Guided Tour in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report 1. One of the guests mentioned receiving a medal at a ceremony in January, which the family found exciting. The guest noted that the presenter was very easy to talk to. 2. One of the guests reflected on nearly four decades of work and an upcoming retirement, observing that younger people show less respect for certain professions and no longer view them as a career, and that people seem to be becoming more self-centered. The guest also noted that similar crimes, such as scams, occur back home. 3. There is some reluctance to switch from gasoline vehicles to EVs, though the guest mentioned having a power station at home. 4. The guest noted that the minimum hourly wage in their home region is about 20 dollars. 5. The guest described a long journey of around 20 hours to reach Tokyo, with connecting flights. 6. The guest thought it was nice that cars are restricted for pedestrians on Sundays. 7. The guest realized why three portable shrines, or "mikoshi," tour the precinct to purify the area during the festival (Senja Matsuri). 8. The guest mentioned that a family member had just reached an age allowing them to drink, and asked about the legal voting age being 18 and the drinking age being 20 in Japan. 9. The guest noted that scooters like those are not used on the street back home.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinjuku～Ginza380JPY
    Section 2SubwayGinza～Asakusa210JPY
    Total590JPY

    Tour Report by Hideaki

    Hello, welcome to Japan you all.

    I’m a resident of Ebina, Kanagawa, and am a national government licensed guide and interpreter.
    I enjoy showing travelers both the new and old of central Honshu, primarily Tokyo and Kanagawa, ranging from Meiji Shrine, Edo Castle, Tsukiji Outer Market, Ueno, Asakusa, Ginza, Ginza Sky Farmstead, Shibuya Zebra Crossings, Yokohama, Kamakura, to Hakone, not to mention Mt. Fuji, and sharing views with my guests on Japanese homes and their surroundings, Japan’s labor productivity and labor market, among others.

    I also enjoy introducing travelers to Japanese culture through home visits with Japanese families, touring Zen temples, and explaining the intricacies of Japanese culture.

    I am happy to arrange personalized tours to other places of your interest.
    I am making the most of my long experience as a foreign language education service, escorting VIPs at the Sony showroom in Ginza, Tokyo.
    I also offer services to help families and individuals relocating to Japan with immigration VISA applications.

    My hobbies are movies, strolling along the river in my neighborhood and am a novice at la lingua Italiano.
    Let’s enjoy touring together, shall we?

    Request Booking

    Jul 16, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Private guide – a very good experience
    We spent a half…

    Jun 21, 2026
    CJW324
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Guided Tour & Tablet Guided Origami Experience
    Unforgettable day in Tokyo with Hideaki — incredible with…

    May 20, 2026
    olgalA154QQ
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience with an excellent guide
    Great experience! Our guide WADA Hideaki…

    Apr 19, 2026
    Sightseer57474900023
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hideaki’s perfect first day in Tokyo!
    Hideaki was an incredible guide and…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: To Dotonbori

    Osaka in Half a Day: To Dotonbori

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 14:00 Meet
    • 14:30 Take the subway to Umeda Sky Building
    • 16:00 Take the subway to Osaka Castle
    • 17:30 To Dotonbori

    What Is a Private Osaka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Umeda Sky Building, Osaka Castle, and Dotonbori After a briefing at the hotel, we decided to first visit the Umeda Sky Building, and then head to Osaka Castle and Dotonbori. First, we took the subway to the Umeda Sky Building, where the guests enjoyed the view of Osaka from the observation deck. We then went down to the basement level, where the guests enjoyed seeing the many carp in the garden of the hotel. After that, at a department store's basement food floor, they looked at a wide variety of foods, and then we took the subway to Osaka Castle. The guests enjoyed the Japanese castle. At the dojo within Osaka Castle, children happened to be practicing kendo, so one of the guests watched intently. Afterward, we concluded the tour at Dotonbori.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHigobashi～Umeda (Subway)190JPY
    Section 2TrainHigashi-Umeda～Temmabashi190JPY
    Section 3TrainTanimachi 4-chome～Namba (Subway)240JPY
    Total620JPY

    Tour Report by akira

    My name is Akira.
    I am a national licensed tour guide in English.
    I have been a tour guide in 9 years.
    I am specialized in Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji castle and Hiroshima.
    When you have a plan to visit those area, please contact me.
    Kyoto and Nara are old town from 8th century, so you will learn Japanese culture and tradition there .
    Nara is our first capital from710 for about 70 years and Kyoto was the capital from 794 for abut more than 1200years.
    So there are a lot ofold buildings are remained and specially in Kyoto there are 17 Unesco heritage site.
    You will enjoy Japan with me and be satisfied with my guiding .
    I am looking forward to seeing you in Japan.

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  • Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Sagano Tour

    Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Sagano Tour

    Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Sagano Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①　09:30　Meet at Hotel Granvia Kyoto
    • ②　09:35　Itinerary explanation and about the history of Kyoto
    • ③　10:00　Travel toward Arashiyama
    • ④　10:40　Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • ⑤　11:30 Explanation of Arashiyama, Toriimoto, and Atago Shrine over matcha and shinko mochi at Hiranoya in Toriimoto
    • ⑥　12:30　Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • ⑦　13:30　Bamboo Grove・Nonomiya Shrine
    • ⑧　14:30　Tenryu-ji Temple
    • ⑨　15:30　Disband at Saga-Arashiyama Station

    What Is a Private Kyoto Arashiyama and Sagano Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, on their first trip to Japan and their first visit to Kyoto, celebrating a special milestone. It was an honor that they chose Japan for such a memorable trip. The previous day they had visited Fushimi Inari Taisha and Sanjusangendo, and today's destination was Arashiyama. The Saga and Toriimoto route, including Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, Hirano-ya, and Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, is one of my personal favorites. I shared stories about the traditions that make Japanese culture what it is — Obon, Jizo Bosatsu (the tale of stacking stones at Sai no Kawara), the floating of lanterns for the spirits, the Gozan no Okuribi bonfires of Kyoto, Atago Shrine, Onmyodo, and Japanese waka poetry. At Hirano-ya we enjoyed shinko mochi with a 400-year history along with matcha, and I gave a brief explanation of how to enjoy matcha in a tea ceremony setting. I quietly delighted in the thought that they were able to immerse themselves deeply in the world of old, traditional Japan. As everyone knows, the garden at Tenryu-ji has an indescribable, mysterious beauty with Arashiyama as its backdrop. In terms of location, it sits halfway up a mountain at the westernmost edge of Kyoto, and as the abbot of Tenryu-ji puts it, "The garden of Tenryu-ji is the very first place in Kyoto to be touched by the morning sun — and at that exact spot lies the Rigyoseki carp stone, likened to the Buddha." When I shared this story, they were deeply impressed by the wisdom of people long ago. It may depend on the person, but I have a feeling this kind of story is more appreciated than explanations about figures like Ashikaga Takauji or Muso Soseki. We returned to Saga-Arashiyama Station and parted ways there. However, afterward we traveled back together to Kyoto Station before saying goodbye. Tomorrow they are heading to Nara.

    Click here for more details: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Sagano Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Nijo180JPY
    Section 2TrainSaga-Arashiyama～Kyoto240JPY
    Total420JPY

    Tour Report by Kazu

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

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

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

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

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

  • Hiroshima in Half a Day: JR Hiroshima Station & JR Miyajima Ferry

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: JR Hiroshima Station & JR Miyajima Ferry

    Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 9:23 Depart from JR Hiroshima Station
    • 9:50 Arrive at JR Miyajimaguchi
    • 10:10 JR Miyajima Ferry
    • 10:20 Arrive at Miyajima
    • Visit Itsukushima Shrine and Mount Misen Nature Trail
    • 13:00
    • Tour ends

    Can You Do a Private Day Trip to Miyajima from Hiroshima? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. The contact was led by an agency, and in the end I was only able to reach the guests directly late at night the day before, when we finally decided on the meeting place and time. On the morning of the tour, I met the guests at Hiroshima Station, as they had already been staying in Hiroshima since the previous day, and we headed to Miyajima. The guests had a very easygoing and friendly manner, and we discussed our destinations and lunch on the train, which made for an unusual tour for me. In the end, they told me they would love a tour that combined visiting historic buildings with enjoying nature, so after viewing Itsukushima Shrine at high tide, we went on to enjoy Mount Misen with rice balls we had brought along.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Total420JPY

    Tour Report by Hiroshi

    Welcome to Hiroshima.
    My name is Hiroshi Tsuji, a licensed guide based in Hiroshima and Miyajima. My family has been connected to Miyajima for more than 300 years, and I am pleased to share the history, culture, and daily life of this unique island with visitors from around the world. Please feel free to call me Hiroshi.
    With a background in outdoor sports—including rock climbing, scuba diving, and long-distance triathlons—I have completed several Ironman races abroad. I studied in Kyoto and later worked in management at a publicly listed company, which allowed me to live in many different regions of Japan and develop a deeper understanding of the country’s diverse culture and history.
    In Hiroshima, I guide guests through the Peace Memorial Park, including the Atomic Bomb Dome, and share perspectives on the history of Hiroshima and modern Japan.
    In Miyajima, I introduce Itsukushima Shrine, Mount Misen, the island’s beautiful scenery, and its local cuisine. As someone whose family has been connected to Miyajima for generations, I also enjoy sharing local insights and experiences that offer a more personal connection to the island’s culture and way of life.
    I look forward to welcoming you to Hiroshima and Miyajima.
    Hiroshi

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    Jul 31, 2026
    Helene R
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Experienced guide Hiroshi
    Hiroshi was a great experienced…

    Jul 26, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Miyajima Half-Day customized tour with licensed local guide (Hiroshi)
    We went…

    Jul 17, 2026
    oswaldom406
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour, Fantastic guide!
    We had an absolutely wonderful…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Jennifer L
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Perfect day in Miyajima and Hiroshima
    Hiroshi is…

  • Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at Kyoto Station　9:15 Arrive at Nara Station　9:35 Todaiji Temple & Nara Park　11:10 Lunch (tonkatsu)　12:15 Kasuga Taisha Shrine　　13:30 Naramachi (Nigiwai no Ie, sake tasting at Harushika Brewery)　14:37 Depart JR Nara Station　15:23 Arrive at Kyoto Station　15:30 　Drop off at the morning meeting point and end of tour

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Nara from Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. As noted in the tour hours section, moving around was challenging in the intense heat of midsummer. While waiting at traffic lights, we moved into the shade, and at bus stops without any shade, I lent an umbrella. Even so, we were able to visit Todai-ji Temple, Nara Park, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and Naramachi almost as planned. Since one of the guests did not speak much English, another of the guests kindly interpreted, which was very helpful. One of the guests still had plenty of energy and could have kept walking, but another of the guests seemed tired and did not have much appetite, so although we had planned some shopping, we wrapped up 30 minutes early and returned to Kyoto. The photo was taken in front of the Great Buddha Hall at Todai-ji Temple.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Nara720JPY
    Section 2Free PassJR Nara Station～JR Nara Station600JPY
    Section 3TrainNara～Kyoto720JPY
    Total2,040JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

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

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    Jul 24, 2026
    Trail65429092687
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Tour
    Kazua Sumi is a very accomplished guide.He has deep…

    Jul 23, 2026
    489caelinp
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Guided Tour
    My friend and I had a great experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    margaretsM7923ON
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Great way to see Kyoto
    Wonderful tour and exceptional guide.

    Jul 9, 2026
    Sandra_B
    Kazuo was great and…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazuo was great and provided…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo & Fushimiinari by taxi

    Kyoto in One Day: Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo & Fushimiinari by taxi

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo
    • 11:10 Bamboo Path by taxi
    • 12:50 Kinkakuji by taxi
    • 14:40 Fushimiinari by taxi
    • 16:00 Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo by taxi
    • End of the tour

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour with a Licensed Guide Like? A Guide's Report The guests were visiting from Europe. The day before the tour, I received an email asking to change the destinations, but in the end we decided on the destinations after meeting in person. Giving top priority to the wishes of the guests, we first went to the bamboo grove. The guests walked very slowly. We took a break at a smoothie shop just before Nagatsuji Street and had banana smoothies, which became lunch. At Kinkaku-ji, after walking around, the guests wanted to rest, so we had cold matcha at a tea house and took a leisurely break. Before resting, the guests had said they wanted to return to the hotel, but after the break they felt refreshed and we visited Fushimi Inari as our final stop. The guests said they would turn back before reaching the Senbon Torii, but I suggested that since we had come this far, we should go all the way to the Senbon Torii, so we took photos near the entrance of the Senbon Torii and then returned.

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

    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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    Jul 14, 2026
    T6871WWricharde
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kazz gave a great one on one 8 hour custom tour…

    Jun 5, 2026
    mateoe216
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Would book again
    The tour with Kazuma-san was absolutely great. As someone…

    May 27, 2026
    Leah_D
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely recommend!
    I definitely recommend seeing some of the sights with a…

    May 26, 2026
    sheilacL3330KS
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very enthusiastic and knowledgable guide. Much appreciated
    Kazz was an excellent guide…

  • Tokyo: Asakusa/Hotel & Odaiba

    Tokyo: Asakusa/Hotel & Odaiba

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meeting place: Hotel Asakusa Komagata
    • 9:40 Depart Asakusa/Hotel
    • (Microbus)
    • 10:00 Arrive Shiodome
    • Shiodome Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 11:00 Depart Shiodome
    • (Microbus)
    • 11:15 Arrive Shiba
    • Shiba Tokyo Tower
    • 12:00 Depart Shiba
    • (Microbus)
    • 12:20 Arrive Hibiya/Otemachi
    • Hibiya/Otemachi Nijubashi Bridge
    • East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 13:30 Depart Hibiya
    • (Microbus)
    • 14:00 Arrive Odaiba
    • Odaiba Statue of Liberty
    • 　Gundam Statue
    • Lunch: Indoor
    • 15:00 Depart Odaiba
    • (Microbus)
    • 15:30 Arrive Asakusa
    • 15:30 Dismissal: Hotel Asakusa Komagata

    Title: What Can You See on a One-Day Private Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: The guests were a group of twelve visiting Japan from North America, all on their first trip to Japan. The group consisted of university students and their accompanying instructors. Most were studying architecture and interior design, with one specializing in a different technical field. The group had arrived at Narita Airport two days earlier and traveled to their hotel by bus. They were planning a day trip to Kamakura the following day. For today, they expressed the wish to briefly see the famous sights of Tokyo. According to the instructions from the guests' travel agency, the requested destinations were Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and Hama-rikyu Gardens. However, since Meiji Shrine had already been visited, and it seemed difficult to reach the guests directly, a change of destinations became necessary. The group leader also did not appear to be in close contact with the agency, which caused some confusion. The tour took place under clear skies. Asakusa was in the middle of the Sanja Festival, and the driver had some difficulty finding parking. We first headed to Hama-rikyu Gardens. I explained the history of Hama-rikyu and its former use for duck hunting, and we strolled slowly through the grounds. The guests commented, "I love Japanese gardens," and asked, "The pine trees are interesting — are they the same as bonsai trees?" Next, we moved to Tokyo Tower. I explained the history of Tokyo Tower and the differences between it and the Skytree. Mount Fuji was visible despite the many clouds. One of the guests remarked, "I really understand now that Tokyo is a city spread over a very wide area." Some of the guests purchased souvenirs on the third floor. We then moved to the Imperial Palace Plaza. Walking from the bus stop across the plaza to Nijubashi Bridge, I explained the history of Japan from the Edo to the Meiji period, the Meiji Restoration, why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace, the history and present situation of the imperial family, and the history of the Dai-ichi Life building. There were questions and comments such as, "Does the current Emperor of Japan hold political power?" and "Who will be the next Emperor?" We walked around the East Gardens, where someone asked, "Why can't we get closer to the Emperor's residence?" When the group requested lunch somewhere, we headed to Odaiba. I explained the origins of Odaiba, and we saw and photographed the Gundam statue and the Statue of Liberty. The guests then had free time indoors, enjoying lunch and shopping. There were comments and questions such as, "Tokyo is so clean — there's no litter on the streets," and "There are no trash cans on the streets. Why is that?" Finally, I saw the group back to their hotel, and we parted ways.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Masa

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

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    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
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    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
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  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:10 Meet 8:45 Gora Station, take the cable car to Sounzan, then take the ropeway to Owakudani 10:00 Take the ropeway to Togendai" 10:45 Pirate ship 11:25
    • Moto-Hakone, stroll along the shore of Lake Ashi 12:00 Take the bus to Hakone Checkpoint Ruins, Maruyama Bussan, shopping, donburi restaurant lunch 13:16 Bus from the Checkpoint Ruins 13:36 Get off at Ninotaira Iriguchi, request the hotel shuttle car 13:45 Disband

    Title: What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Mount Fuji, the Ropeway, and Local Crafts The guests were visitors from North America. One of them was very fond of conversation and had a great affection for Japan, with our talk ranging from samurai to anime, Japanese cars, and even the Kojiki, which made me keenly aware of the limits of my own knowledge. The other maintained a warm and cheerful atmosphere throughout, which was a great help. Today Mount Fuji was clearly visible, and the guests took many photographs. The fresh green of spring was also vivid, and they thoroughly enjoyed the natural beauty from both the ropeway and the pirate ship. They were deeply impressed by the yosegi marquetry presentation at a local crafts shop. They made many purchases, and even bought a fine, elaborate puzzle box for me, which I gratefully accepted. We also spoke about Buddhism, Shinto, and kanji, and the guests listened with great interest.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOdawara Station～Odawara Station6,000JPY
    Total6,000JPY

    Tour Report by Hiro

    I am Hiroki Morikawa :Hiro:, English guide living with my wife ,just a hop skip and jump from Hakone, Kamakura, Tokyo and the Mt. Fuji.
    I am a friendly grandfather of 4 grandchildren.
    I would love to help you enjoy Japan, using my 3 strong points.
    First: I am used to dealing with any kind of matters. I have experienced various situations in the 40 years of my working life.
    Second: I am good at making a friendly atmosphere between you and local people to help you enjoy Japan. I was raised in western Japan, studied in northern Japan and now live in central Japan. So I know various local cultures and dialects to communicate with a wide variety of people.
    Third: I can explain things from a technical point of view.
    For example, how the Great Buddha was constructed, because I am a master of engineering graduated from Hokkaido University.
    Please enjoy Japan with me. See you soon!!
    dummy

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    Jun 30, 2026
    G2432BLtimothyc
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Full Day Tour with Guide and Vehicle
    6 hour tour of Hakone
    we had a great experience with…

    Jun 25, 2026
    T7734IPbrandons
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in hakone
    Niro was perfect for us. He was…

    Jun 8, 2026
    JasonB6980
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hiro-san knows Hakone!
    Our guide, Hiro-san, did a wonderful job introducing…

    Jun 7, 2026
    Tourist31988989961
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura 8 hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide from Tokyo
    Great Day and Tour
    Kamakura was amazing. Enjoyed…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Sanjusangendo Temple

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Sanjusangendo Temple

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Hotel Meet (@Hotel Resol Kyoto Shijo Muromachi)
    • 12:00-12:55 Travel (City Bus; Karasuma Shijo → Gojozaka)
    • 12:55-14:10 Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple (including Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka, Yasaka Pagoda, and Koshindo)
    • 14:10-14:30 Travel (City Bus; Kiyomizu-michi → Higashiyama Shichijo)
    • 14:30-15:20 Visit Sanjusangendo Temple
    • 15:20-15:50 Travel (City Bus; Higashiyama Shichijo → Karasuma Shijo)
    • 15:50-16:00 Travel (On foot; Karasuma Shijo → Hotel)
    • 16:00　Tour ends　　Said farewell to the guests in front of the hotel

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Afternoon Walking Tour Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe, coming to Japan for the first time. The tour started at 12:00, and today happened to be the hottest day of the year at 34°C. The original plan was to take the guests to Kiyomizu-dera (including Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka, the Yasaka Pagoda, and Koshin-do), Sanjusangen-do, and Chishaku-in. However, after visiting Kiyomizu, one of the guests found it too hot to keep walking, so only part of the group continued to Sanjusangen-do while the other rested in the shade nearby. The guests also requested to be taken back to the Hotel instead of visiting Chishaku-in, so I escorted them to the Hotel and ended the tour. The heat seemed to be quite taxing, and I felt sorry about it.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKarasuma～Gojozaka／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2BusKiyomizu-michi／Kyoto City Bus～Higashiyama Shichijo／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3BusHigashiyama Shichijo／Kyoto City Bus～Karasuma230JPY
    Total690JPY

    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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    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.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Beth_D
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Tour and Guide
    Michi was an excellent tour guide! He…