Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Ginkaku-ji Temple & Gion area

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Ginkaku-ji Temple & Gion area

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    December, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet @Four Seasons Kyoto
    • 10:30 Visit Ginkaku-ji Temple
    • 11:30~ Stroll along the Philosopher's Path and the Shishigatani area (Honen-in Temple, Shinnyo-do Temple, Konkai Komyo-ji Temple)
    • 12:30 Visit Heian Shrine
    • 13:15 Stroll around the Gion area
    • 13:45 Disband @Gion Hanami-koji

    タイトル: What Is a Relaxed Private Walking Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. After spending four days in Tokyo, they arrived in Kyoto yesterday. For most of the group, it was their first time in Japan and in Kyoto. Although their stay would be short, ending the day after tomorrow, today I incorporated my own suggestion and we took a route starting from Ginkaku-ji, which was not crowded, walking slowly at our usual relaxed pace. The guests seemed to fully enjoy the walking course, the quiet and distinctly Kyoto-like atmosphere of each temple we visited, and the overall ambience. Deliberately avoiding the usual popular spots turned out to be the right choice. I had been a little concerned that some of the guests might get bored, but that was not the case at all (they occasionally asked questions), and my final tour of the year with [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) also came to a smooth and successful end. Thank you very much for all your support throughout the year.

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

    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…

  • Aomori Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Aomori Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Aomori Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 東横イン新青森駅東口にて。
    • 9:57 新青森駅からJR奥羽線の電車で弘前駅へ。
    • 10:37 弘前駅着。
    • 11:00-11:30 五重塔のある最勝院。
    • 12:00 *昼食 @清水：日本そば店
    • 14:00 弘前公園 – 弘前城 @大手門
    • 15:00 津軽藩ねぷた村
    • （三味線（三弦楽器）ショー）
    • （入場料：600円/一人）
    • 16:45 津軽藩ねぷた村発。
    • 17:41 弘前駅から特急列車で新青森駅へ
    • 18:20 新青森駅着。

    What Is a Private Winter Walking Tour of Hirosaki Like? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private tour of Hirosaki for a guest visiting from Oceania. The guest loves Japan and was making a third visit to explore rural areas of the country. The tour followed a route covering Saishoin Temple, a soba restaurant, a bladesmith workshop, Hirosaki Castle, and the Tsugaru-han Neputa Village. Hirosaki was hit by record-breaking heavy snowfall of about 80 centimeters, and there were zero taxis waiting at the taxi pool in front of the station, so the tour became a walking tour on foot. According to prior confirmation, the guest was vegetarian and could eat Japanese soba but could not have bonito stock, so on the spot the restaurant kindly prepared a special "mentsuyu" dipping sauce made with soy sauce and soba-yu (the water used to boil the noodles). The guest was interested in Japanese blades, and since it was a Sunday, I guided them to the Tazawa Bladesmith Workshop, the only one open, which has a history of over 100 years. The guest was deeply moved by the family-run workshop that conveyed Japanese craftsmanship, and purchased apple-branch pruning shears as a souvenir since the guest's spouse enjoys growing roses. Despite being born in a place without winter and living in Oceania where there is little snow, the guest walked through the snowy streets just like a local Aomori resident! When I asked, "Aren't you cold?" the answer was, "No, not at all." In fact, the guest had studied abroad in Russia for ten years, and the guest's spouse is Russian. We suddenly became close, and the guiding turned into a mix of Russian. The guest's family also loves Japanese anime culture, and they hope to visit next time during the cherry blossom festival at Hirosaki Castle.

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

    Tour Report by Tomohiko

    My name is Tomohiko Kudo.
    I live in Aomori city.
    I already visited more than 30 nations so far.
    After official retirement from the public officer, I could have the Japanese Government Licensed Guide Certificate and am nowadays very pleased to guide overseas tourists all over the world.
    Did you know that the Fuji apple is not from Mt.Fuji…but is actually from Aomori Prefecture’ Fujisaki town. Aomori is proud of the biggest apple product in
    Japan. We provide 40 apple-pie restaurants to guests.
    Let’s enjoy real Japanese culture and history with me. I would enjoy with you real Samuri history, Kimono culture, local traditional festivals, castle,
    Japanese garden, temple, shrine, Japanese tea ceremony, food and Sake.
    I often go to the local sea food and vegetable markets and eat fresh foods and would love to show you some secret, hidden restaurants that only Aomori locals know about – let’s go on an adventure together.
    If you like sushi and fresh seafood, let me introduce to Nokkedon ?
    What is it? Come to Aomori and find out! I am waiting for you.

    Request Booking

    Jun 2, 2025
    413maryannb
    Tomohiko organized our day beautifully! The car was immaculate, the driver skilled. We thoroughly enjoyed our day!
    Tripadvisor review: Aomori Full-Day…

    Apr 30, 2025
    Jacqueline_F
    Great Guide, great tour
    Viator review: Aomori Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    We experienced the wonderful sites of Aomori which…

    Dec 30, 2024
    Scenic33296385055
    Warm and professional guide
    Tripadvisor review: Aomori Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mr. Kudo-san is very professional, meticulate and kind…

    Aug 3, 2024
    Monika R
    Fun and informative tour – great tour guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Aomori Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    We were 3…

  • Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    December, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 11:10 Meet up @ Shin-Kobe Station ticket gate
    • 2. 11:30 @ Kitano Ijinkan-gai (Foreign Residences Area)
    • 3. 12:20 @ Ikuta Shrine
    • 4. 13:10 Lunch @ Franz Cafe (Umie Mosaic)
    • 5. 14:00 @ Umie Mosaic & Meriken Park
    • 6. 14:40 @ Nankinmachi & Motomachi Shopping Street
    • 7. 15:00 Disband @ Motomachi Shopping Street

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Kobe Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. We met in front of the ticket gates at Shin-Kobe Station and first went to the Kitano Ijinkan (Foreign Residences) district, a location chosen at the guests' request. At Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, I talked about Taira no Kiyomori's relocation of the capital to Fukuhara, stories about Sugawara no Michizane, and the history of the former foreign settlement and the arrival of foreign residents in Kitano after the opening of Kobe Port. We took photos in front of the Weathercock House (Kazamidori no Yakata) and the Moegi House, and we also went inside the Kitano Monogatari-kan. However, it seemed that the guests did not form a particularly strong impression of Kitano. After Kitano, we went to Ikuta Shrine. I gave a full explanation of Ikuta Shrine, but there were an unusually large number of worshippers that day, so we skipped the prayer at the main hall. After Ikuta Shrine, we passed by the steak restaurant where the guests had made a dinner reservation, went to Sannomiya Station, and traveled via JR train to Harborland (Umie Mozaic). Since they had wished to have lunch here, I chose a cafe with a view of the sea and we had lunch. The view from Mozaic was very beautiful, and the guests remarked that it reminded them of San Francisco. After this, we walked from Mozaic through Meriken Park, then went to the Motomachi shopping street via Nankinmachi (Chinatown), where we ended the tour. The guests said they especially enjoyed the portside area and were very pleased with the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Train[JR Sannomiya] Station～[JR Kobe] Station140JPY
    Total140JPY

    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!

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:15 Meet at Ryuguden. Take the Izuhakone bus to Sounzan. Take the ropeway from Sounzan to Owakudani. Take the ropeway to Togendai. 12:00 Pirate Ship, disembark at Hakonemachi Port.
    • Visit Maruyama Bussan. Lunch at Donburi Chaya. Take the bus to Motohakone Port. Sightseeing at Hakone Shrine. Walk to Ryuguden. 15:15 Dismiss

    A Private Day Tour of Hakone from Tokyo: A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan from Oceania, and Hakone marked the conclusion of a journey of about two and a half weeks. They planned to return to Tokyo the following day and fly home on New Year's Day. As this was their second visit to Japan, they had chosen to focus on Japan's regional areas rather than the major cities this time. They had a strong interest in Japanese culture and history, and our conversation naturally kept turning in that direction. They also tried a variety of Japanese dishes during their trip, and at a donburi teahouse the guests ordered sake and beer, and I had a beer as well, so we all raised a toast together. In the afternoon, Mount Fuji fortunately revealed itself, and the [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) tour concluded with a pleasant 20-minute walk from Hakone Shrine back to the Hotel.

    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 Station5,000JPY
    Section 2BusRyuguden-mae～Sounzan760JPY
    Total5,760JPY

    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

    Request Booking

    Aug 24, 2026
    Deb_K
    Viator review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Well organised tour
    Hiro is obviously an experienced guide.…

    Aug 6, 2026
    Marcus_J
    Viator review: Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing day with…
    Had an amazing day with Hiro.…

    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…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kinkakuji & Fushimi Inari

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkakuji & Fushimi Inari

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Hotel Meet (Hotel Shijo Omiya)
    • 8:30-9:20 Travel (Keifuku Train; Shijo Omiya → Nishioji Sanjo, City Bus; Nishioji Sanjo → Kinkakuji-michi)
    • 9:20-10:00 Kinkakuji Visit
    • 10:00-10:40 Travel (City Bus; Kinkakuji-michi → Kawaramachi Shijo)
    • 10:40-11:40 Nishiki Market Stroll
    • 11:50-12:40 Lunch (Okonomiyaki/TonCinKan@Sanjo Rokkaku-dori)
    • 12:40-13:20 Travel (Keihan Train; Keihan Sanjo → Fushimi Inari)
    • 13:20-14:00 Fushimi Inari Visit
    • 14:00-14:20 Travel (Keihan Train; Fushimi Inari → Gion Shijo)
    • 14:30 Farewell at Shinkyogoku

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji, Nishiki Market, and Fushimi Inari The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. After traveling to Tokyo, Kanazawa, and Takayama, they arrived in Kyoto yesterday. It was everyone's first visit to Kyoto. I took the group to Kinkaku-ji, Nishiki Market, and Fushimi Inari Shrine. Because we visited Kinkaku-ji first thing in the morning (30 minutes after opening), there were not many visitors yet, which was ideal. However, Nishiki Market afterward was so crowded with foreign travelers, and being the end of the year, it was difficult to move around. Fushimi Inari after lunch was also quite crowded with foreign travelers. This time, I made sure to allow plenty of time especially at Nishiki Market, where the guests purchased souvenirs, sampled Japanese sake, and enjoyed strawberry ice cream. The guests commented that although Fushimi Inari was too crowded, they liked Kinkaku-ji very much. They also said that even though Nishiki Market was crowded, it was great. After the tour, the guests wanted to go to a shopping area, so I took them to Shinkyogoku and said goodbye there.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShijo Omiya～Nishioji Sanjo250JPY
    Section 2BusNishioji Sanjo～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 3BusKinkakuji-michi～Kawaramachi Shijo230JPY
    Section 4TrainKeihan Sanjo～Fushimi Inari220JPY
    Section 5TrainFushimi Inari～Gion Shijo220JPY
    Total1,150JPY

    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 !

    Request Booking

    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.…

  • Hiroshima: Kura Sushi

    Hiroshima: Kura Sushi

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    December, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:50 Hotel
    • 　　Strolling along Hondori
    • 11:00 Kura Sushi
    • Strolling along Hondori, hypocenter, Aioi Bridge, tour of Peace Park monuments, making paper cranes and offering them at the Children's Peace Monument, tour of memorial monuments,
    • 14:20 SOGO, tour ends at the Pokémon Center

    Title: What's a Private Walking Tour of Hiroshima Peace Park Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They mentioned that it was their wedding milestone. The Atomic Bomb Museum was closed for the day, but since I had heard they were staying in Hiroshima for several days, I had let them know they would have a chance to visit the museum on other days. They had visited the museum the previous day and were pleased, though they said it was so crowded that they could hardly move. After meeting, we passed by Okonomiyaki Village, and they said, "We came here last night, it was delicious." They had also had Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki in Tokyo and enjoyed it. According to the guests, if the okonomiyaki in Tokyo rated a 4 in taste, the local Hiroshima okonomiyaki was a 5. Since I had heard they were interested in landmarks, history, and food, I shared information from the Hotel to Peace Park and at each place we visited. After telling them a little about the history of a 100-yen shop, we stopped by a bakery. There, after sharing some history about the shop, one of the guests, who loves Danish pastries, bought a snack and was delighted with how delicious it was. The other was also satisfied with the taste. I introduced several shops selling Hiroshima souvenirs along the main shopping street, and while passing by an amusement facility and a kamameshi restaurant, we went to a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant that had recently opened on the main shopping street. Since no one was very hungry, we stopped by just for a plate or two as an experience, but our timing was good and we were seated without waiting. They were very curious about the conveyor-belt sushi. I told them that ordering via the tablet would bring fresher sushi, but they said choosing the sushi coming around and opening the plastic covers themselves was fun, so they did not order via the tablet. The tablet supported English, but the circulating sushi did not, so each time they would ask, "What is this?" and then happily open the cover. This restaurant also has a system of putting finished plates into a slot, which they found interesting and photographed and videoed. At that moment, sushi passed by at tremendous speed on the upper lane, and they were delighted again. Even to me, it seemed considerably faster than other sushi restaurants, and it was overwhelming. Afterward, we continued through the shopping arcade, looked at a calligraphy brush shop and an okonomiyaki restaurant, and since they like cats, they looked at cat goods in front of a variety store. Even in the middle of an explanation, when there was a real cat, they would say, "Oh, a cat! Sorry, I love cats." After that, we toured Peace Park, and since the museum was closed, I guided them through sections I do not usually cover on tours. I talked about the streetcars at Aioi Bridge and about the Astram Line. When I told them that a streetcar that survived the atomic bombing is still running, they were very surprised. Then I guided them through the standard spots such as the Children's Peace Monument, the Rest House, the Flame of Peace, the Pond of Peace, and the Cenotaph for the A-bomb Victims. At the Rest House, they found stamps, and I learned they actually collect them and had brought a notebook for stamps. There are several other places to get stamps, so I told them about the other spots. They said they wanted to offer paper cranes at the Children's Peace Monument, so instead of the tower we had originally planned, we folded paper cranes together inside the Rest House and went to offer them. Incidentally, the guests contacted me after the tour to say they had also visited the tower together. Hearing they liked Pokémon, I told them there is a Pokémon Center and a place to get stamps inside a department store, so we got the stamp. Before I knew it, we had gone well past the tour's end time, but I accompanied them to the Pokémon Center, and the tour ended. It was a little cold, and unexpectedly a little rain fell in front of the Children's Peace Monument, but the guests were so cheerful that I had a very enjoyable time as well. That is all.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by miki

    Dear guests,
    Hello! My name is Miki. I was born and brought up in Hiroshima. I enjoy traveling around Inland Sea areas and I enjoy chatting with guests from overseas!

    In Hiroshima, you can see many beautiful rivers and old bridges. Lately, I often take photos of Hiroshima city including bridges and rivers. There are not many tall buildings here, but I know some places you can visit and see the view for free. By the atomic bomb dome, there is a building called Orizuru(paper crane) Tower. You need to pay to go up to the top floor but you can see the view of Hiroshima city and the Miyajima Island(Itsukushima).

    Many tourists from overseas as well as Japan want to visit Miyajima Island. You can see a beautiful shrine from Heian Period which is around 12th century and a huge Torii gate in front of the shrine and it is in the water. There are several ways to visit the island from Hiroshima city. If you are going to stay near JR Hiroshima Station, we will visit the island by JR train and JR ferry. If you are staying in the city area, we can go there by streetcar and ferry, or there is a high-speed boat from Peace Memorial Park pier directly to the island and vise versa.

    Hoping to see you in the near future!

    Miki
    Your tour guide in Hiroshima

    Request Booking

    May 20, 2026
    Barbgal
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Walking tour of Hiroshima – 4 hours
    It was a…

    May 16, 2026
    E8055FUjamesg
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Great day in sunny Hiroshima
    We were with Miki Nakashima,…

    Apr 5, 2026
    jacquid804
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Miki was amazing
    Miki was fabulous very informative and knowledgeable…

    Aug 19, 2025
    J
    Jemma H
    Excellent tour of Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Miyuki was a very…

  • Nara in One Day: JR Nara Station & Yoshikien Garden

    Nara in One Day: JR Nara Station & Yoshikien Garden

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:21 JR Nara Station (Start of Tour)
    • (walk 15 minutes)
    • 10:40 Nakatani-do
    • 11:00-30 Kofukuji Temple
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • 11:50-12:20 Kasuga-taisha Shrine
    • (walk 5 minutes)
    • lunch at Mizuya-chaya?
    • (walk 5 minutes)
    • 12:40-50 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • 13:00-30 Todaiji's Nigatsudo Hall
    • (walk 5 minutes)
    • 13:50-14:00 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • 14:10-40 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall
    • (walk 5 minutes)
    • 14:50-15:00 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate)
    • (walk 5 minutes)
    • 15:10-40 Yoshikien Garden
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • 16:10 Nakatani-do (End of Tour)
    • 　　　The tour was planned to disband at JR Nara, but at the guest's request that here was fine, we disbanded here

    What Is a Private Nara Tour Like in Late December? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. During the planning, the tour start time changed repeatedly, and the night before, the departure time from the hotel in Kyoto was suddenly moved earlier. When I replied that we could start the tour earlier to match, the response was that the previously agreed 10:21 start would be fine after all — in short, a continuous stream of changes. Compared to two days earlier, both Kasuga Taisha Shrine and the Great Buddha at Todai-ji Temple had roughly double the number of visitors. There was also quite a long line at Mizuya Chaya. It is a mystery why there was such a difference in the crowds between December 28 and December 30. (Domestic visitors increased as the year-end work period wrapped up, but the majority of the crowd was made up of visitors from overseas.)

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

    Tour Report by Junichi

    Hello! Thank you for choosing Nara! I bet you’ll love Nara. I specialize in Nara because Nara is the unique place where in one day you can cover the history and religions of Japan from the ancient times to the post war era while enjoying rambling in the UNESCO World Heritage park, having communication with lovely deer, surrounded with the beautiful nature.
    I grew up in Nara, went university in Kyoto, enjoyed teaching at high schools and a university in Osaka. The three former capitals of Japan are home to me.
    After retiring from teaching I began guiding so that I can meet various people from various corners of the world with a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Each time I guide, I find it hugely rewarding because I learn a lot from my guests sharing the history, culture and all that I know about Nara, Kyoto and Osaka.
    I used to be a marathon runner, mountain climber and skier though I am not much of them anymore.
    What I especially recommend is to stay in Nara a couple of days and enjoy communicating with friendly deer while visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nara in early morning, temples and shrines at night are well worth experiencing.

    Request Booking

    May 16, 2026
    I3520JTcristinat
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nara with family
    Excellent tour with Junichi!!! Perfect English speaking guide and…

    May 3, 2026
    Maria_J
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyable day in Nara
    We spent 6 hours in Nara with Junichi…

    Apr 11, 2026
    64sandig
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Osaka DEP. with Licensed Guide
    ????? Absolutely Outstanding ? Junichi Made Our Nara Day…

    Mar 30, 2026
    dpadillachavez
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
    Great day at Nara!
    Best tour on Nara, Junichi…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Guided them around Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Guided them around Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet at Parman Tamachi lobby. After asking about their planned stay in Japan, things they're interested in, and places they'd like to visit, we decided to first go to Meiji Shrine and Harajuku, then to Asakusa Sensoji Temple, and set off. If time remains, we'll reconfirm after finishing the first two and proceed from there.
    • 12:00 Had them purchase a subway all-day common ticket, so that from the next day when they move around by themselves they can use it as a reference. Arrived at Meiji-jingumae Station from Toei Mita Station by transferring subways three times. At the same time, at Tamachi Station I also taught them how to use the JR Yamanote Line.
    • 12:00-13:00 Guided them around Meiji Shrine.
    • 13:00-14:35 Guided them from Meiji Shrine to Takeshita Street. They became interested in the print club on Takeshita Street, so we made purikura photos there. Next, since they said they wanted to fill their stomachs a little, we bought crepes at SANTA MONICA CREPE. They really liked Takeshita Street and said they wanted to come again the next day (December 30) to visit animal cafes, so I taught them all the locations of animal cafes (cats, Shiba Inu, otters, hedgehogs). Also, since they said they wanted to do fashion shopping, I told them about LAFORET, and finished Harajuku, then headed to Sensoji Temple by subway.
    • 15:10 Arrived at Asakusa. During the trip they mentioned they wanted to buy matcha to take home, so right after getting off at Asakusa Station we went to Masudaya and purchased matcha. Also, since you can drink matcha for 500 yen, they said they wanted to drink it, so they enjoyed matcha for a while inside the shop. After finishing, we went to Nakamise Street. First they liked "Yoroshi Keshodo" and purchased hand cream and other items. Next, at a chopstick shop they purchased chopsticks with their names engraved. After that, they worshipped at the main hall, photographed the koi at the stone bridge, and viewed the Danjuro bronze statue at the Sensoji backyard. Since they said they couldn't purchase tickets for the New Year Asakusa Kabuki online, I took them to Asakusa Public Hall and tried to purchase, but all advance tickets were sold out and they said to line up for same-day tickets from 10 AM on January 2, so when I conveyed this, they said they would try coming on the 2nd. After finishing at the Public Hall, since they said they wanted to eat dango, we returned to Kannon Street, entered "Kanmi Mitsuya," and they tasted three kinds of dango. By the time we had done all that it was 4:30 PM, and when I asked what they'd like to do with the little time remaining, they asked, "We have a reservation at the sushi restaurant Kyubey for 7 PM, but should we return to the hotel? Or should we go directly?" So I boarded the Ginza Line intending to take them to Ginza where Kyubey is located and say goodbye. However, since Kyubey has several branches in the city, when I had them show me the Kyubey reservation screen in the subway car, it was not the Ginza Kyubey but the New Otani Kyubey, so instead of getting off at Ginza we got off at Akasaka-mitsuke Station and I took them to the 2nd floor of the New Otani Main Tower.
    • 17:30 Said goodbye at the New Otani.

    What's a Private Tour of Tokyo Like from Meiji Shrine to Asakusa? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who arrived at Haneda in the early morning. They were staying in Japan for about two weeks, and their interests ranged from history to anything related to youth culture. They were bright and cheerful, having just finished their studies. In the end, the tour covered Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, Nakamise Street, and the Asakusa area. In Harajuku, the guests discovered a photo sticker booth for the first time and spent about 30 minutes there, ate crepes, and looked around LAFORET. In Asakusa, they bought matcha, drank it, and purchased hand cream and chopsticks. They also asked at the public hall whether they could get tickets for the Asakusa New Year kabuki performance starting on the 2nd, then enjoyed dango, and were delighted with everything, repeatedly exclaiming "COOL, COOL." The guests had contrasting personalities, one outgoing and one more reserved, which perhaps was exactly why they got along so well and were on very good terms, making them a cheerful and lively group that was a pleasure to guide. I asked where they wanted to go on their own the following day, and I shared as much information as I could about each place, starting with how to get there. They said they had a wonderful time, so I parted from them with peace of mind.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayMita Station～Meiji-jingumae Station900JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae Station～Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa Station～Akasaka-mitsuke Station0JPY
    Total900JPY

    Tour Report by MINORUASAI

    I acquired national guide license in 2014, and I have been doing guide work full fledged since 2016. In my career before starting guide work, I was a business man and made more than 1,000 business trips both abroad and in Japan, and that experience is my foundation as a guide because I came to know so many places both abroad and in Japan. I have been taking care of both group and individual tourists, and the number of foreign guests I have taken care is close to 2,500 so far. I am based in Tokyo, but I can cover guide work in many prefectures throughout Japan. When I take care of foreign guests, my major concern is to listen attentively to them, find out what they want to know and do in Japan, and give them appropriate guiding in accordance with what I heard from my guests. I would like to provide tailor made tour as much as possible for every precious guest who kindly chose Japan as the tour destination.

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    Aug 1, 2025
    8
    898kendrap
    Great first day in Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Asai, our tour guide, made our…

    Jul 14, 2025
    Anette_V
    Perfect
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide Minoru Asai was very friendly and knowledgeable about culture,…

    Jun 30, 2025
    liammL2246HL
    Amazing experience
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
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    Jun 26, 2025
    394milesd
    Excellent guide making an excellent day in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A perfect day, tailored…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Dotonbori & Tsutenkaku Tower

    Osaka in Half a Day: Dotonbori & Tsutenkaku Tower

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    December, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9：30　　Pick up at Hotel Premier Nakanoshima East
    • 9:30-10:40 Dotonbori
    • 10:40-12:10 Kuromon Market
    • 12:30-13:20 Shitennoji Temple
    • 13:40-14:00 Tsutenkaku Tower
    • Around 14:00 End of the tour(At a restaurant)

    What's a Private Food-Focused Day Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Dotonbori, Kuromon Market, and Shitennoji Since Osaka Castle was closed today, we visited places that stay open even at year-end, such as Dotonbori and Shitennoji, and choosing the food areas turned out to be a great decision. The guests greatly enjoyed takoyaki, tempura (vegetables), sushi, Japanese sweets, sake, and beer at Kuromon Market. They also seemed interested in Japanese Buddhist statues, so we entered the temple grounds of Shitennoji and even climbed the five-story pagoda. There were New Year decorations such as kagami-mochi and shimenawa everywhere, and there were also people taking wedding photos. After enjoying this oasis in the middle of the city, we walked to Tsutenkaku and finally I saw them off at a restaurant catering to those who eat vegan and gluten-free food, ending the tour. I believe the guests were able to enjoy Osaka, the city of food, even with certain dietary considerations.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigobashi～Namba190JPY
    Section 2SubwayNippombashi～Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Total380JPY

    Tour Report by Yuki

    Hi! I’m an official English guide in Wakayama prefecture. I’m also a national guide as well. I’d like to expand my guide area to help tourists.
    The town of Osaka offers a different atmosphere than Tokyo. I like both exciting Osaka and nature-filled Wakayama Prefecture.
    If you stay in Osaka for 3 days, you can go to Koyasan for one day, or even for a day trip, so I recommend sightseeing at Koyasan.
    If you are tired of the hustle and bustle of the big city, the nature of Koyasan will relax you.
    I will introduce you to the unique culture, history and must-see sights.

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    Aug 17, 2026
    yasmintX6792FN
    Great trip
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  • Kyoto: Fushimi Inari & Kamishichiken area

    Kyoto: Fushimi Inari & Kamishichiken area

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    December, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:45 Meet at Kyoto Station
    • 9:10 Fushimi Inari
    • 10:45 Kinkaku-ji
    • 12:40 Lunch (sushi)
    • 13:50 Kitano Tenmangu
    • 14:30 Kamishichiken area
    • 15:35 Tea ceremony experience
    • 16:55 Drop off at hotel and end tour

    Title: What's a Private Family-Friendly Day Tour in Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari and a Tea Ceremony The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. They had hoped to see places with fewer tourists, but after meeting in the morning and discussing options together, we decided to visit Fushimi Inari. Some of the guests tended to stay close to the others rather than joining in the more lively moments. During the tea ceremony experience, some of the guests wore kimono, and everyone enjoyed not only matcha but also a calligraphy experience. It was a valuable opportunity to experience Japanese culture. After the tea ceremony, I accompanied the guests back to the Hotel by taxi, ending the tour. The photo was taken at the venue of the tea ceremony experience.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainInari～Enmachi200JPY
    Section 3BusEnmachi～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 4BusKamishichiken～Hyakumanben230JPY
    Section 5OtherHyakumanben～Mimaru Suites Kyoto Central0JPY
    Total810JPY

    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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    Sep 28, 2026
    Miguel_E
    Amazing Service
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
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    Sep 27, 2026
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    TrailBlazer47194
    Kazuo Sumi is a great guide.
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    Sep 1, 2026
    Steve6172014
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
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    Pascale_Q
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
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