Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Yasaka Shrine - Shorenin Monzeki

    Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Yasaka Shrine – Shorenin Monzeki

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Hotel Kyoto Meet up
    • 10:00~10:50 Nijo Castle
    • 11:20~12:10 Sanjusangendo
    • 12:40~13:20 Gion Stroll, Lunch Break
    • 13:20~14:20 　Yasaka Shrine – Shorenin Monzeki
    • 14:30~15:30 　Chionin – Maruyama Park – Yasaka Pagoda – Disband at Kiyomizu-dera approach

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nijo Castle, Sanjusangendo, and Kiyomizu-dera The guests were visitors from Europe who came to Kyoto via Tokyo and Hakone. Just before the scheduled meeting time on the day, the guests contacted me to say that the name of the meeting-point hotel was incorrect, so we managed to meet about 15 minutes later than planned. At Nijo Castle, they were absorbed in the Karamon Gate, the architecture of the Ninomaru Palace, the painted sliding doors, the carved transoms, and the atmosphere of the grand halls and the Shiroshoin. They also asked questions about the historical background leading to the shogunate's return of political power to the Emperor. At Sanjusangendo, they were overwhelmed by the 1,001 Buddhist statues, about 750 years old, standing in rows. At Shorenin Monzeki, they sat on the veranda and enjoyed a relaxed time gazing at the Kogosho hall associated with the imperial family and the tranquil garden. Afterward, we went from Chionin to the Yasaka Pagoda and parted ways on the bustling approach to Kiyomizu-dera.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto～Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijojo-mae～Keihan Sanjo220JPY
    Section 3TrainKeihan Sanjo～Shichijo170JPY
    Section 4TrainShichijo～Gion-Shijo170JPY
    Total820JPY

    Tour Report by shige

    Hello, This is Shige. I was born and brought up in Osaka. I have been enjoying working as a tour guide since 2016 after retired from a manufacturing company in which I worked at the overseas department. So I experienced a lot of business with customers in Europe, Asia, Australia, and USA where my three years of living and working at the subsidiary company with my family was the most amazing experience of my life. Well, Japan has a long history including ancient remains, historic buildings and cultures at each period over 2000 years. I hope you will enjoy exploring Japan in this tour. I look forward to seeing you soon.
    Shige.

    Request Booking

    May 23, 2026
    Sarajean_s
    Viator review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful way to get acquainted with Kyoto
    Shige was a…

    May 21, 2026
    828vickeyb
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Shige is a great tour guide for Kyoto
    Shige was an excellent…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Mariana_M
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking Tour with Shige
    Shige was an amazing tour guide and companion…

    Jul 4, 2025
    Marcus_C
    Osaka tour 2025
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful tour around Osaka. Our guide…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel, 10:30-11:30 Meiji Shrine, 12:30-14:00 Asakusa, 14:30-15:00 Hamarikyu Gardens

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Asakusa, and Hamarikyu I was waiting in the hotel lobby holding a name board, but even when the meeting time arrived, the guests could not find me and I could not find them. After about 15 minutes I made a phone call and discovered they were near the entrance, so all was well. There had been no reply about whether to go with itinerary plan A or plan B, and the day arrived, but the guests decided to leave it up to me. Since the guests had trouble with their knees, we used elevators and escalators as much as possible. The guests seemed very moved by the refreshing atmosphere of Meiji Shrine. In Asakusa the guests bought various souvenirs. They wanted a small spoon for scooping seasoning, so we stopped at several shops during the itinerary to look for one, but could not find it, and we prioritized sightseeing. From the final destination of Hamarikyu, I was kindly allowed to share a taxi to their hotel in Shinjuku. The guests asked me to guide them again when they return during the cherry blossom season in spring. The next day I received requests to send any additional photos of the places we visited and to send an English translation of Emperor Meiji's waka poem, and I responded to both.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku Station～Harajuku Station146JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku Station～Asakusa Station252JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa Station～Shiodome Station220JPY
    Total618JPY

    Tour Report by Lance

    I have been working as a tour guide once a week since the autumein 2024. I got 5 star ratings from 32 individuals or groups succesively.
    Previously, I have been working with grain business for 43 years. I was sent to a subsidiary office in New Orleans for three years.
    I love Japanese history, culture and nature and want as many viaitors as possible to know the good and beautiful things about Japan. There’s a Zen teaching that I hold dear. That is ‘Ichi-go ichie’, which means ’Treasure every encounter as it may not come again’. Looking forward to see you!

    Request Booking

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

    Jul 1, 2026
    Voyager795644
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo private family tour
    Our family of 5 (kids age 8, 10,…

    Jun 26, 2026
    Leslie_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Market, temples, Nature, and a great guide
    This tour is amazing and…

    Jun 17, 2026
    JKing275
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo
    Our guide, Lance was exceptional! He immediately contacted me…

  • Sapporo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Sapporo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Sapporo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:30 Meet up @ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo
    • 2. 9:45 Nijo Market
    • 3. 10:10 Former Hokkaido Government Office
    • 4. 11:40 Hokkaido University Campus (Main Gate→Furukawa Hall→Museum→Poplar Avenue→Ginkgo Avenue)
    • 5. 12:55 JR Tower
    • 6. 13:30 Disband @ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of Hokkaido University in Sapporo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: Until I met the guests, I had not been able to hear their wishes about the tour, so I had proposed a tentative itinerary. When I met the group at the Hotel, they told me that, having visited the Sapporo Clock Tower and other sites the previous day, they wished to walk around the Hokkaido University campus. Since I had guided the Hokkaido University campus many times as a volunteer, I was happy to take on the request. Among [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guests, no one had requested this before. As it is a national university and not a heavily promoted site, it seems to be a place that is difficult to include on tour lists. However, when actually walking through the campus, many foreign visitors who appear to be tourists can be seen. Hokkaido University does not restrict visits by the general public, and its lush green campus near the JR station has become a sightseeing spot for some travelers. The guests walked well on a regular basis, so aside from taking a break inside the Hokkaido University Museum, they were able to cover nearly the entire route on foot.

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

    Tour Report by Tom

    I was born and raised in Hokkaido and have been a resident of Sapporo for over 30 years. I have been actively involved in guiding tourists around the scenic spots of Hokkaido, primarily focusing on Sapporo. Even before becoming a licensed interpreter guide, I engaged in volunteer activities to assist and guide foreigners, providing me with valuable opportunities to delve into the rich culture and history of Hokkaido.
    Hokkaido is renowned for its exceptional culinary scene, and I am well-versed in gourmet information. I believe I can offer an excellent experience by guiding individuals through the highly acclaimed food experiences that Hokkaido has to offer.

    Request Booking

    Apr 22, 2026
    Agent PT A
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Super Sapporo in April with Tom.
    Tom was kind…

    Feb 10, 2026
    Alan_C
    Very enjoyable and well…
    Viator review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Very enjoyable and well worth it. Our…

    Sep 24, 2025
    saratW9816BN
    Tour up to the Moiwa mountain and lots more
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We’ve had…

    Sep 2, 2025
    roxannerW1499FK
    Great experience!
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful city tour with Tom in…

  • Hiraizumi Customized Half-Day Tour

    Hiraizumi Customized Half-Day Tour

    Hiraizumi Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet and depart at Hiraizumi Station　10:10 Muryoko-in Ruins　10:25 Takadachi　10:45 Tsukimizaka　10:55 Benkeido　11:10 Sankozo　11:30 Konjikido　11:45 Kyozo　11:50 Basho Statue・Old Covering Hall　11:55 Hakusan Shrine・Noh Theater　12:10 Main Hall　12:45 Kanjizaio-in Ruins 12:50 Motsuji Main Hall　13:00 Nandaimon Gate Ruins　13:10 Oizumi-ga-ike Pond　13:20 Kaizando　13:25 Kashoji Ruins 13:30 Lecture Hall Ruins　13:30 Enryuji Ruins　13:40 Yarimizu　13:45 Jogyodo　13:50 Bell Tower　14:00 End of guided tour

    What Is a Private Guided Tour of Hiraizumi Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Chusonji, Motsuji, and Local History The guests were a young group from North America, visiting Japan for the first time. They had trained their legs before coming to Japan, so although I offered to use a bus partway through, they showed no signs of fatigue and completed the tour successfully. They had a deep interest in plants and asked about the names of flowers and trees along the roadside. One of the guests was also interested in architecture and showed curiosity about styles such as the pyramidal roof (hogyo-zukuri). At Takadachi and Hangan-kan, they showed interest in the haiku of Basho and the life of Yoshitsune, the tragic hero. They went up into the main hall of Chusonji Temple, attentively viewing the principal image and taking photographs. Having studied topics such as Shinto before their trip, they spent time at Hakusan Shrine passing through the chinowa ring, offering prayers at the shrine, and praying at the shrine dedicated to the guardian deity of their own zodiac sign among the twelve zodiac guardian deities. They entered the main hall of Motsuji Temple (a special viewing was being held in October) and looked with great interest at photographs of the Yakushi Nyorai and the Ennen no Mai dance displayed inside the hall. They also showed interest in the size of the foundation stones at the site of the Nandaimon Gate and the many foundation stones at the site of Enryuji Temple. They were fascinated by the yarimizu water channel and the annual Gokusui no En banquet, as well as the hidden Buddhist deity Matarajin of the Jogyodo hall. During the tour, we had a lively conversation about Shohei Ohtani, who is from Iwate Prefecture, and I truly realized how popular he is in North America.

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

    Tour Report by Hitoshi

    My name is Hitoshi Ohata. I’ve been an interpreter and guide for about six years since I retired. I live in Takizawa City which is at the foot of Mt. Iwate, the highest mountain in Iwate Prefecture. My hobby is playing table tennis once a week. I’m not a competitive player, I’m just having fun. I also play go, a board game. The main guides are a guide to Hiraizumi’s cultural heritage and a guide to cruise ship tours in Aomori and Iwate Prefecture. I’ve experienced the Great East Japan Earthquake, so I can talk about things like that. I try to convey Japanese culture and society to people overseas in an easy-to-understand way as much as possible.

    Request Booking

    Jul 19, 2025
    Michael_B
    Morioka Marathon
    Viator review: Morioka Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour with Hiitoshi. He is from…

    Jun 24, 2025
    Matthew_M
    Half Day Morioka Tour
    Viator review: Morioka Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hitoshi was a pleasure to be with and…

    Sep 16, 2024
    Johannes S
    Hitoshi Ohata hat uns eine interessante Führung gegeben. Er hat viel Erfahrung und geht auf individuelle Wünsche ein.
    Tripadvisor review:…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:05 Meet up @ Hotel 〈Asakusa Tawaramachi Station Front〉
    • 2. 10:10 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 10:40 Stay @ Meiji Shrine
    • 4. 11:55 Travel: Subway
    • 5. 12:15 Stay @ Wadakura Fountain Park
    • 6. 12:45 Travel: Subway
    • 7. 13:10 Stay @ Asakusa
    • 8. 14:15 Disband @ Asakusa Kokusai-dori

    Title: What Can You See on a 4-Hour Private Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine and Asakusa The [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide met the guest at a Hotel located in an easy-to-find spot near Tawaramachi Station, though the guest arrived slightly late because the hotel was very crowded and the elevators were busy. The guest was a bright and intelligent visitor from South America, and we enjoyed pleasant communication throughout the tour. Since the guest wanted to see the highlights, we focused on Meiji Shrine and Asakusa, and, as on the previous day, walked a little along the Kikyo Moat of the Imperial Palace. I believe this is an effective course for a short 4-hour tour. At the end of the tour, the guest wanted to shop at Don Quijote in Asakusa, so I explained the route back to the Hotel via Kokusai-dori before we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTawaramachi Station～Meiji-jingumae Station600JPY
    Section 2Free PassMeiji-jingumae Station～Otemachi Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Station～Asakusa Station0JPY
    Total600JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

    Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
    I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
    I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
    One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
    Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
    I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    G848SWmaribelm
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
    The tour experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Cezary P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour of Tokyo!
    Sam, was outstanding! Showed…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Michael_C
    Tokyo tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a wonderful guide -…

    Jun 18, 2026
    David_W
    Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Fish Market Tour
    Great tour. Got to see…

  • Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 15:00 At "Hotel Grande Shin-Osaka" which the guest had specified as the pickup location, since they didn't show up, I contacted them saying I was waiting in the lobby, and received the message "Sorry! I'm in Kyoto now and will take the Shinkansen from here, so I'd like to meet at Shin-Osaka Station"
    • 16:00 Successfully met at the Shinkansen South Exit of Shin-Osaka Station　16:30 Osaka Sky Building　17:30 Shopping at Eki Donki inside Eki Marché at Osaka Station　1800 Departed Osaka Station　18:35 Arrived at the cruise terminal, end

    Title: Can You Do a Short Private Osaka Tour Before a Cruise Departure? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests had contacted me via a messaging app to arrange a 15:00 pickup at a hotel lobby near Shin-Osaka, but the actual situation was quite different. We met at 16:00 at the Shinkansen exit of Shin-Osaka Station, and it was only then that I learned the guests were passengers of a cruise ship at Osaka Port. On their way back from sightseeing in Kyoto, they wanted to do a little sightseeing in Osaka and be dropped off at the cruise terminal by 18:30. That left less than two hours of sightseeing time, including travel. Since there was also a request to do some shopping at a discount store, we decided to visit the Umeda Sky Building and then shop at the discount store inside the station mall at Osaka Station. Although the time was short, the guests enjoyed the beautiful scenery of the sunset at the Sky Building and enjoyed their last shopping in Japan at the discount store, and they were very satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShin-Osaka～Umeda240JPY
    Section 2TrainOsaka～Bentencho170JPY
    Section 3SubwayBentencho～Osaka Port240JPY
    Total650JPY

    Tour Report by Emi

    Hello! I’m Emi (meaning “smile” or “laugh” in Japanese) , born, raised, and living in Osaka for more than half a century. I’ve been working as a government-licensed tour guide since 2018 after early retirement from a company. My favorite things are hiking, cooking, eating, laughing, learning different cultures, jazz, playing the chromatic harmonica, etc.
    I’ll provide you with a few suggested itineraries first, but of course I’ll be happy to provide you with a flexible itinerary according to your preferences and requests and to help you enjoy your stay in Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kobe, etc. I can also offer a tour visiting not only popular destinations but also hidden or less-crowded places.
    I’m looking forward to meeting and guiding you!!

    Request Booking

    Jul 17, 2026
    TROY_R
    Viator review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    This was a perfect tour…
    This was a perfect tour of…

    Sep 18, 2025
    L9831WKjenniferb
    4 hour Kyoto tour with English speaking guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely afternoon with English…

    Aug 15, 2025
    SuperGC68
    Great value
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a two day 6hr tour with our guide…

    Jul 4, 2025
    Inspire64445626178
    Delightful day with Emi
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a delightful day with our guide…

  • Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour

    Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour

    Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.09:03 Meet up @ Naoshima Miyanoura Port bus stop
    • 2.09:20~10:00 Art House Project: Minamidera → Ando Museum → Kadoya → Gokaisho Shrine (Since it opens from 10:00, the contents will be explained from outside the building)
    • 3.10:35~11:30 Lee Ufan Museum, Valley Gallery
    • 4.11:45~13:20 Chichu Art Museum, Lunch @ Chichu Art Museum Cafe
    • 5.13:50~15:40 Benesse House Museum and outdoor artworks (including the Yellow Pumpkin, etc.)
    • 6.16:10~16:30 Stroll around the Miyanoura district (including Naoshima Bath "I♥湯")
    • 7.16:30 Disband @ Miyanoura district

    What Is a Private Naoshima Art Island Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather forecast had suggested possible rain, but it turned out cloudy then sunny, making for a comfortable day. The guests were visitors from North America. Both were kind and pleasant, which made guiding them enjoyable. They were staying near Uno Port, and since it takes only 20 minutes by ferry from Uno Port to Miyanoura Port on Naoshima, we had agreed to meet at the Miyanoura Port bus stop. Just before the meeting, the guests changed the location and sent me a map via a messaging app, but it was hard to understand, and I felt anxious when we did not connect right away, though I found them within a few minutes and was relieved. I should have asked to keep the meeting point at the originally agreed bus stop. I felt that, except when meeting in a hotel lobby, the meeting point needs to be pinpointed precisely. Everything else went smoothly, and I believe the guests enjoyed their trip. They said they had found Naoshima by researching online. Naoshima is crowded this time of year, so transportation and restaurants require careful attention. In the end, the guests apparently wanted to relax on Naoshima rather than in Uno, so they visited I Love Yu, the public bathhouse art installation of the Setouchi Triennale near Miyanoura Port, then shifted to a later ferry than planned and returned to Uno. I believe they thoroughly enjoyed Naoshima.

    Click here for more details: Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusMiyanoura Port～Nokyo-mae100JPY
    Section 2BusNokyo-mae～Tsutsujiso100JPY
    Section 3BusTsutsujiso～Miyanoura Port100JPY
    Total300JPY

    Tour Report by Kaji

    Hello. My name is Hisao Kaji. I was born in 1945. I was raised in Takamatsu City from 3 years old. So, I have been living in Takamatsu for around 75 years. I believe I know Takamatsu City and the Kagawa prefecture area very well. If you come to Takamatsu, Kagawa I think you can enjoy your tour with me. I started a Government Licensed Guide in 2019. So, I have been a licensed guide for about 5 years. My favorite destinations are Naoshima, Teshima, Ritsurin Garden, the top of Mt. Yashima and so on. I always show you an itinerary about one month before your tour date, and I will accept any questions, other favorite places you want to visit. Communicating with you, I would like to accommodate your request for your tour. I always listen to NPR on the internet to know how the world is moving and improve my English. I like conversation based upon it with my life. I stayed in the USA for 8 months for a Power Systems Engineering Course conducted by General Electric in New York State when I was 28 years old. I sometimes talk about my memory of those days with the guests. I am very happy to guide tourists because I can see the guests become happy and enjoy themselves when I am guiding better. Nothing is more wonderful than that. I welcome your visit to Takamatsu City and Kagawa Prefecture. I believe you will have a pleasant time through my guide.

    Request Booking

    Apr 19, 2026
    2Pippin2
    Tripadvisor review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A day to remember
    Perfect day! Our tour guide, Kaji,
    added so…

    Oct 23, 2025
    C
    Calli_C
    This was a great day tour…
    Viator review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was a great day…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Vanessa_A
    Lovely day on Naoshima Island
    Viator review: Naoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    It was great to relax and leave…

    Jun 1, 2025
    Pamela_F
    Highly recommend the half…
    Viator review: Okayama Half-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Highly recommend the half day tour and our…

  • Kyoto: Todai-ji Temple & Summit of Mount Wakakusa

    Kyoto: Todai-ji Temple & Summit of Mount Wakakusa

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 　Hotel
    • 10:00 　Todai-ji Temple
    • 11:30　Nara Park
    • 12:00　Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 12:45　Lunch
    • 13:15　Naramachi (Harushika Brewery ~ Naramachi Nigiwai-no-Ie, etc.)
    • 14:45 　Summit of Mount Wakakusa
    • 15:30 　Depart Nara
    • 16:40　Arrive at hotel

    Title: Can You Do a Private Day Trip to Nara and Naramachi? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather was fine and hot that day, but thanks to the taxi driver keeping the air conditioning on in the car, we were able to complete the tour comfortably. When we arrived at the hotel parking lot in the morning, there were several similar taxis parked there, but the driver had displayed a [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) sign. Thanks to this, I was able to find the car without confusion and greet the driver, which was very helpful. The guests seemed a little tired after lunch (while strolling through Naramachi). I felt that perhaps the fatigue from the previous days had begun to show a little. Also, while one of the guests was feeding crackers to the deer, they were bitten from behind around the waist area. Fortunately there was no injury, but since this time of year is also the mating season for male deer, I was reminded once again that we need to be careful.

    Click here for more details: Nara Day Trip from Kyoto by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Yoshi

    I am Yoshi, a Nara Local Government Licensed Guide Interpreter and also, a National Government Licensed Interepreter.
    Let’s go out! The Kansai region was the center of Japan for a long time. It was from the 4th century to 19th century. Thus the Kansai region is rich in scenic and historic interest. Why don’t we see, feel, and find so many attractions in Nara Kyoto and Osaka. I was born and raised in Nara. Also I have been to Osaka and Kyoto for working, shopping and dining. I can show you not only major tourist spots but also shops and delicious food that only locals know. I am looking forward to sharing wonderful moments with you!

    Request Booking

    May 29, 2025
    Dana_K
    Get ready to climb and explore
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    There is a lot of climbing…

    Aug 16, 2024
    Dylan_N
    Yoshi was a great tour guide
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great experience with…

    Jun 9, 2024
    Tour39164063770
    Tolle Stadtführung mit erfahrenem Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Auf unserem Trip durch Japan hatten wir…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 11:30 Meet @ Hotel Ginza 6-chome (16-14 Ginza 6-chome, Chuo-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 11:50 Tsukiji Market
    • 3) 13:00 Asakusa <Nakamise Street・Sensoji Temple>
    • 4) 14:10 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 5) 15:30 Shibuya Crossing
    • 6) 15:40 Dismissal @ Tokyo Metro Shibuya Station Ticket Gate

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting from Europe. During the advance communication, they had requested a visit to Shinjuku Gyoen and Sensoji Temple, ending in Shibuya, as some of the guests had a go-kart tour booked for 17:00. At the hotel meeting, I confirmed the itinerary and guided them to Tsukiji. They had reportedly arrived at the hotel around 4:00 a.m. and were all experiencing jet lag. Since I had told them in advance to come a little hungry because we would visit Tsukiji first, they enjoyed sharing dishes such as tuna skewers and fried shrimp. Amid the flavors and the appetizing aromas, they also ordered fresh juice to refresh themselves. Next, we avoided Nakamise Street and headed straight to the main hall of Sensoji Temple. As we had a little time to spare, I let them shop for about 10 minutes, and then we moved on to Shinjuku Gyoen. From the Sendagaya Gate, I guided them through the Japanese garden and the Kyu-Goryotei pavilion. Including time for photos, we stayed for about 40 minutes, so with the guests' agreement, we skipped Meiji Shrine and headed to Shibuya Station. Just as we were about to reach Shibuya Station, one of the guests scheduled to join the go-kart tour realized they had left their international driver's license at the hotel. After arriving at Shibuya Station, I said a hurried goodbye to the rest of the group and rushed the remaining guests to the Ginza Line Shibuya Station platform before parting ways. The group was lively and full of humor throughout — one of them was a baseball fan, they asked questions about Japanese customs they had studied before their trip, and they showed me wedding photos. After Tokyo, they planned to join a cruise tour visiting Kagoshima, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Singapore. I truly hope they made it to the go-kart tour in time. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. Winner of Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Higashi-ginza Station～Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line Tsukiji Station180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Tsukiji Station～Toei Subway Asakusa Line Asakusa Station290JPY
    Section 3SubwayToei Subway Asakusa Line Asakusa Station～Toei Subway Asakusa Line Asakusabashi Station180JPY
    Section 4TrainJR Sobu Line Asakusabashi Station～JR Sobu Line Sendagaya Station180JPY
    Section 5SubwayTokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Shinjuku-sanchome Station～Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Shibuya Station180JPY
    Total1,010JPY

    Tour Report by Tachi

    Hi! I’m a local guide in Tokyo and have been working as a licensed tour guide for almost 10 years. I love helping guests discover the “real Japan” beyond the guidebooks. I enjoy showing guests both famous sights and places that many tourists miss. My tours are based on your interests and can include not only famous sightseeing spots, but also local neighborhoods, culture, history, and everyday life in Japan. I also help guests enjoy Japanese cultural activities and make communication easier. If you’d like vegan or gluten-free meals, let me help you find suitable restaurants in Tokyo. If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, please feel free to let me know in advance. I look forward to showing you around Tokyo!

    Request Booking

    Jun 19, 2026
    Daniel_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 would do again!
    Our guide, Tachi was incredibly accommodating, friendly, and…

    May 24, 2026
    Meander63637687943
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Japanese Garden Lover’s Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour guide Tachi is the best!
    A most enjoyable and…

    May 19, 2026
    Jai_K
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    I would definitely…
    I would definitely recommend this tour. Our guide Tachi…

    May 5, 2026
    Gary33556
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour of the highlights of Tokyo
    Tachi was our guide. What…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Sensoji Temple and its surroundings & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Sensoji Temple and its surroundings & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00　Hotel Levant Tokyo
    • 10:20　Sensoji Temple and its surroundings
    • 12:00　Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 14:00　Imperial Palace (Tokyo Midtown Hibiya – Nijubashi)
    • 15:20　Meiji Shrine
    • 16:30　Disband at Harajuku Station

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were from Europe. They had arrived in Tokyo the day before, and throughout the day they were all smiles, clearly enjoying their first visit to Japan and to Tokyo. In addition to questions at the places we visited, we discussed topics such as Japanese geography, history, and the imperial system, as well as the current state of the world economy and the Japanese economy. Drawing an omikuji fortune slip at Sensoji Temple, they both drew the best possible fortune, and their beaming, joyful smiles were truly memorable. Eating Japanese sushi was also one of their goals, and their hearty appetite and enthusiasm for the food were a delight to watch. They were planning to visit Kanazawa the next day, followed by Kyoto, and seemed to be looking forward to enjoying their stay.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKinshicho～Asakusa286JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa～Tsukiji286JPY
    Section 3TrainTsukiji～Hibiya178JPY
    Section 4TrainNijubashimae～Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Total959JPY

    Tour Report by hiro

    Hello everyone. My name is Kitano Hiroyuki. Please call me Hiro.
    I finished my 36-year career as a public servant in March this year, and as a new challenge, I am currently teaching Japanese at a Japanese language school in Tokyo. As a Japanese language teacher, I teach students from various countries, but I also learn a lot from them, and I am especially grateful to my students who remind me of how wonderful Japan is. This is also what motivates me as an interpreter guide to convey the wonderfulness of Japan to as many guests as possible as soon as possible.
    As a guide, I volunteered as a guide in Takato Town, which is home to one of Japan’s three major cherry blossom viewing spots in Ina City, Nagano Prefecture, where I was born. Ina City is a small regional city blessed with culture and nature. Surrounded by two 3,000-meter-class mountains, the Southern Alps to the east and the Central Alps to the west, mountain tourism is thriving. Many climbers visit from all over the country during the summer mountain season. Other than that, Takato Kohiganzakura, one of Japan’s three most famous cherry blossom spots, is one of the best places to see cherry blossoms in spring, roses decorate the town in early summer, and autumn leaves in autumn. Takato Town, the birthplace of Shinshu soba, offers not only new soba in autumn, but also flavorful soba throughout the year. Furthermore, as a town rich in history and culture, there are many historic temples, shrines, buildings, stone Buddhas, etc., which captivate history lovers from all over Japan. I am confident that my experience here will allow me to guide guests in a wide range of fields, including nature, culture, history, and food.
    My hobby is traveling, and in my 20s I enjoyed traveling alone, mainly in the United States. I rented a car and crossed the Seven Mile Bridge to Key West, and I still miss the taste of the frozen daiquiri I had at a bar related to Hemingway. Since my 30s, I have visited diving spots around the world, such as Sipadan, the Maldives, Palau, Cebu Bohol, the Great Barrier Reef, the Red Sea, La Paz, Maui, and Bali. On these trips, I not only dive, but also actively learn about the local nature, culture and lifestyle, and the conversations and interactions with the people who live there and other divers from other countries become irreplaceable memories and assets for me.
    As an interpreter guide, I will use my experience of communicating with foreigners, as well as my experience and knowledge as a working member of society, to explore and practice guiding that brings fulfillment and joy to my guests.
    Come and experience the ultimate “emotion” with me.

    Request Booking

    May 5, 2026
    susansV3106OI
    Tripadvisor review: Fukuoka Full-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Wonderful day in Fukuoka!
    Our guide Hiro worked with us to…

    Apr 6, 2026
    Shelley_R
    Viator review: Fukuoka Full-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Beautiful city
    Hiro was a great guide and the city was…

    Mar 25, 2025
    John H
    Really great!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Had an awesome time exploring Tokyo. My guide Hiro…

    Mar 25, 2025
    Stefanie_K
    We had a wonderful day…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful day touring Tokyo…