Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo: Imperial Palace & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo: Imperial Palace & Meiji Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet up @ Hotel in front of Shinjuku Ward Office
    • 09:40 Imperial Palace
    • 10:40 Nezu Shrine
    • 11:50 Lunch @ Sansada (Asakusa)
    • 12:40 Sensoji Temple
    • 14:20 Shibuya Scramble Crossing・Hachiko
    • 14:40 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 15:20 Meiji Shrine
    • 16:30 Shinjuku Golden Gai・Hanazono Shrine
    • 17:05 Disband @ Shinjuku

    What Is a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Oceania. Before coming to Tokyo, they had already visited Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima, and after sightseeing in Tokyo they planned to travel to Hokkaido. At the Imperial Palace, they were impressed by the vast grounds and listened with great interest to explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo Shogunate. At Nezu Shrine, Sensoji Temple, and Meiji Shrine, they listened attentively to explanations about the differences between shrines and temples. On Takeshita Street, they showed interest in the various shops and animal cafes. Since I accommodated the guests' wishes throughout, I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinjuku-sanchome~Nijubashimae600JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijubashimae~Nezu0JPY
    Section 3SubwaySendagi~Nishi-Nippori0JPY
    Section 4TrainNishi-Nippori~Ueno150JPY
    Section 5SubwayUeno~Asakusa0JPY
    Section 6SubwayAsakusa~Shibuya0JPY
    Section 7TrainShibuya~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 8SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Shinjuku-sanchome0JPY
    Total900JPY

    I am Seizo Kamiuto, National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English). I was born in Kagoshima City in Kyushu (Southern part of Japan) and grew up there until the graduation from a high school. I came to Tokyo to enter a University in Tokyo and since then, I have lived in Tokyo for more than 40 years and therefore I know Tokyo and its suburbs and Kagoshima City very well. After retiring from an IT company, I have been working as a Guide Interpreter of English since March 2018. I have guided many overseas guests to the popular sightseeing spots in Tokyo, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji area (Kawaguchiko Lake etc.), Hakone, Nikko, Yokohama, Kawagoe and Kagoshima and so on. I have received good reviews from many guests. I can explain the history and the culture of Japan in detail. I look forward to an opportunity to guide you in Japan. Thank you. Seizo Kamiuto

    Sep 27, 2026
    jonaJ5014ZK
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Seizo was a tremendously fabulous…

    Sep 11, 2026
    M7402TTsharonp
    Higly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing tour with Seizi Kaminto.…

    Sep 8, 2026
    OnAir57127583503
    Amazing Experience with Kamakura Day Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    We had an excellent time with Seizo Kamiuto as our…

    Sep 4, 2026
    B2319ZKjoseo
    Pleasant stroll through HISTORY
    Tripadvisor review: Kawagoe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a great time learning about…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 ホテルでお迎え
    • 9:30 皇居(入場料無料)
    • 11:00 金閣寺(入場料:500円/人)
    • 12:00 ベジタリアンラーメン かずで昼食
    • 12:50 伏見稲荷大社へ出発
    • 13:20 伏見稲荷大社を散策(入場料無料)
    • 14:20 祇園へ出発
    • 14:40 祇園に到着 伝統的な町家の通り、花見小路を散策
    • 15:00 ここでツアー終了

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kyoto Imperial Palace, Kinkaku-ji, and Fushimi Inari The guests were a family with Japanese roots now living in North America. Some of the group spoke Japanese quite well, while others spoke only a little. Perhaps because of their heritage, they showed a strong interest in Japanese culture. However, it seemed to be their first time in Japan, and their reactions and expressions of surprise reflected their North American background. At the Kyoto Imperial Palace, they were interested in the lifestyle of the emperor and asked many questions. There was still a little autumn foliage remaining in the Oike-niwa garden, which delighted them very much. At Kinkaku-ji, while I was guiding, an English-speaking visitor who happened to be nearby became very interested and struck up a conversation. They said they had read Yukio Mishima's "The Temple of the Golden Pavilion" and had come to see it, so we enjoyed a lively conversation for a while. For lunch we went to Ramen Kazu. The menu offered both vegetarian and regular options, so both those who wanted to eat meat and those who did not seemed satisfied. At Fushimi Inari, they seemed a little puzzled by the system of omikuji fortunes, but took many photos at the Senbon Torii. I told them I hoped they would get to see a maiko, and we said goodbye in Gion at 3:00.

    Welcome to Kyoto!

    My name is Aoki. I am a passionate and certified English-speaking tour guide. I am dedicated to providing you with an unforgettable experience.

    **Why Choose Me?**
    – **Expert Knowledge:** I have an in-depth understanding of Kyoto’s rich history, temples, shrines, culture and heritage. I will share fascinating stories and insights that you won’t find in guidebooks.
    – **Guests first:** I fully respect your interests and preferences, ensuring that you get the most out of your visit.
    – **Local Connections and experiences:** As a local resident, I have connections with various artisans, tea houses, and local businesses. This allows me to offer unique explanations on traditional cultures, such as tea ceremonies, kimono dress-ups, and authentic culinary delights.
    – **Comfort and Convenience:** I prioritize your comfort and convenience. I am familiar with public transportations and know the best places to eat and shop, I take care of all the details so you can relax and enjoy your trip.

    I like to comunicate and share. I look forward to showing you the magic of Kyoto and creating wonderful memories together. By exploring with me, your visit will not just be a tour, but a memorable journey through the heart of Japan.

    Let’s enjoy Kyoto and uncover its secrets!

    Sep 5, 2025
    Maddie_T
    Awesome experience
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Our guide, Aoki, was fantastic!!!! She…

    Sep 4, 2025
    dannib211
    Perfect start to our visit in Kyoto!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing tour…

    Jan 20, 2025
    Wanderer503982
    Great Kyoto experience!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Aoki and driver provided an excellent…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:00 Meet @Sakanoue Ryokan
    • 2. 8:40 @Fushimi Inari
    • 3. 10:55 @Saihoji Temple
    • 4. 12:30 @Arashiyama (Bamboo Grove・Tenryu-ji Temple)
    • 5. 14:15 @Nishiki Market
    • 6. 15:10 Disband @Nishiki Market

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour with Saihoji Temple Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests requested a visit to Saihoji Temple, so I explained the availability, the reservation process, and the reservation and cost arrangements for the guide, and since they kindly asked me to join them, I was able to enjoy the experience as well. I explained that Saihoji Temple does not rely on parishioners, so admission fees are its main source of income, and that visitors are asked not simply to view the garden but first to calm their minds through sutra copying before seeing it. In the sutra copying hall, the guests all sat in the formal seiza posture (even though table seating was available!) and copied the sutra with great seriousness. During the following garden stroll, they showed interest not only in the sights but also in the sounds, and seemed to thoroughly enjoy themselves. Since a request to extend the tour had been made at the start, after Saihoji Temple I took them to the bamboo grove and Tenryuji Temple. They also wished to visit Kinkakuji Temple, but they had become hungry and wanted to eat at Nishiki Market. I was glad to join them for lunch as well. After lunch, we walked around Nishiki Market together a little more. I asked what they wanted to buy, explained where they could purchase those items and how to get back to their accommodation from Nishiki Market, and then we parted ways. After returning home, they sent me many photos and were very pleased, saying it had been the most enjoyable and wonderful day of their entire stay in Japan. They mentioned that another member of the group is planning to visit Japan and would like to be looked after by us again.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGion-Shijo~Fushimi Inari220JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari~Gion-Shijo220JPY
    Section 3TrainKyoto-Kawaramachi~Kamikatsura200JPY
    Section 4TrainArashiyama~Karasuma240JPY
    Total880JPY

    Hi! My name is YUKA. I’ve got the government license in 2018 and joined a half year traning to do the guide. But a half year later I started my carreer, Covid came. I should have given up guiding. During the Covid, I’ve read many books and made my own materials to explain Japanese culture, history, etc. I love guiding because the guests expand my horizon all the time and let me know their own country and culture, etc. It is really important for us all to know each other and respect each other to make this world peace. Thank you for coming to Japan! Let’s enjoy Japan together!

    Sep 29, 2026
    duncans746
    Yuka was great
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Yuka was a fantastic guide, knowledgeable,…

    Sep 23, 2026
    navinderp2024
    Great day in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 9, 2026
    piperl686
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Honeymoon Tour in Kyoto
    We were so impressed by…

    Aug 5, 2026
    Anita_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great day of sightseeing in Kyoto
    Yuka was a…

  • Kyoto: Bamboo grove & Kiyomizudera

    Kyoto: Bamboo grove & Kiyomizudera

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO
    • 10:00 Bamboo grove
    • Arashiyama
    • Arabica coffee
    • Togetsukyo bridge
    • 11:50 Kinkakuji (500)
    • 12:40 Lunch (Kura Sushi Kinkakuji Store)
    • 14:30 Fushimiinari (0)
    • 15:20 Kiyomizudera (500)
    • 15:40 End of the tour

    What's a Private Photography-Focused Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They both had large cameras and mentioned that they had visited a camera plaza in Tokyo. The tour was originally scheduled to start at 10:30, but since they wanted to begin earlier, we moved it up by one hour. Today felt less like sightseeing and more like a photography session. While I usually carry a camera and take many photos of my guests, today my main role became guiding them to photogenic spots. The weather was typical of Kyoto in winter, with alternating rain and clear spells, but curiously the blue sky appeared whenever it was time to take photos, so I believe they were able to capture some great shots. I was surprised when heavy snow began to fall around the time we finished lunch. In the end, I guided them all the way to Kiyomizu-dera Temple. After Kiyomizu-dera, I made sure to share information about taking photos around the Yasaka Pagoda area. Since the guests were focused on photography, I did not take snapshots of them.

    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!

    Sep 25, 2026
    Marvin_F
    Kazz is an outstanding…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Kazz is an outstanding experiencedand friendly…

    Sep 21, 2026
    Laura_K
    Day in Kyoto with Kazz
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazz was an amazing…

    Aug 27, 2026
    M6034YWthomasm
    Worth it
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    The day went by so quickly, a…

    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Awesome experience
    Tour guide Kazz was great. Very informative and showed…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari & Guide to Yasaka Pagoda and end the

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari & Guide to Yasaka Pagoda and end the

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:50 Meet at Kyoto Station
    • 8:20 Fushimi Inari
    • 10:00 Arashiyama
    • 10:45 Short break
    • 12:10 Kinkaku-ji
    • 13:30 Guide to Yasaka Pagoda and end the tour

    What Is a Private Family-Friendly Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The group visited Japan, originally from Europe but now living in Asia. The younger members of the group were kind and considerate, giving up their seats to elderly passengers on the bus and train. It was the coldest day of the year so far, and it occasionally began to rain. I was grateful that the group did not fuss and kept up well throughout the tour. Since they arrived quite late for our meeting at Kyoto Station, I was only able to guide them through the Higashiyama area as far as Yasaka Pagoda before we ran out of time. The photo was taken at the bamboo grove in Arashiyama.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainInari~Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 3TrainRanden Arashiyama~Kitano-Hakubaicho250JPY
    Section 4BusKitano-Hakubaicho~Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 5BusKinkakuji-michi~Kitaoji Bus Terminal230JPY
    Section 6SubwayKitaoji~Higashiyama260JPY
    Section 7BusHigashiyama-Sanjo~Kiyomizu-michi230JPY
    Total1,590JPY

    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.

    Sep 28, 2026
    Miguel_E
    Amazing Service
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful time with Kazuo.…

    Sep 27, 2026
    T
    TrailBlazer47194
    Kazuo Sumi is a great guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide Kazuo Sumi…

    Sep 1, 2026
    Steve6172014
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 7, 2026
    Pascale_Q
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Very good private tour of Kyoto with Kazuo
    We had…

  • Osaka in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

    Osaka in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:20 Meet @ Caption by Hyatt Osaka Namba
    • 10:50-11:55 @ Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 13:00-13:45 @ Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 13:50-14:20 @ Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka
    • 14:30-14:40 @ Gion
    • 15:10-15:30 @ Nishiki Market
    • 16:30-17:15 @ Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 18:45 Dismissal @ Namba Parks

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kiyomizu-dera, Gion, and Arashiyama Body: The guests were a family visiting from North America. They mentioned that one member worked at a local branch of an educational company, and since I had experience with that program during my student years, we shared a lively moment over the connection. The day before, the guests requested to move the meeting time from 9:30 to 9:00, but in fact everyone gathered around 9:20. I recommended IC cards, and they purchased three adult ICOCA cards. For the youngest, we bought individual tickets each time we traveled. The list of requested destinations was long, and before departing I explained that we would need to move quickly to see everything. However, they stopped at street stalls and souvenir shops along the way to do a lot of shopping, so by the time we finished exploring Kiyomizu-dera, our second stop, we were significantly behind schedule. In Gion, we simply walked through while I answered the guests' questions and curiosities about geiko and maiko. At Nishiki Market as well, we entered only one shop to eat, and otherwise just passed through. We arrived at the Arashiyama bamboo grove around 16:30, and although it was already getting dark, there were far fewer tourists as a result. Since it was not so dark that photos were impossible, everyone was delighted to take the pictures they wanted. I saw the guests off at Namba Parks, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNamba Station~Umeda Station240JPY
    Section 2TrainOsaka Station~Inari Station860JPY
    Section 3TrainFushimi Inari Station~Tofukuji Station170JPY
    Section 4BusTofukuji~Kiyomizu-michi230JPY
    Section 5BusGion~Shijo Kawaramachi230JPY
    Section 6TrainShijo Takakura~Shijo Omiya230JPY
    Section 7TrainShijo Omiya Station~Arashiyama Station250JPY
    Section 8TrainSaga-Arashiyama Station~Osaka Station990JPY
    Section 9SubwayUmeda Station~Namba Station240JPY
    Total3,440JPY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Market

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet at Shin-Urayasu
    • 11:20 Tsukiji Market
    • 12:30 Harajuku, lunch, Kyushu Jangara Ramen
    • 13:10 Takeshita Street, Omotesando
    • 14:00 Shibuya Crossing, Fukuras 17th floor
    • 14:30 Disband at Shibuya Station

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji and Harajuku The guests were visitors from Oceania staying at a hotel and spending about a week in Tokyo. They were very friendly and cheerful, and mentioned that they had a lot of stress and wanted to refresh and forget about work. At Tsukiji, they were delighted with skewered grilled eel and tuna sashimi, and they also enjoyed a Kyushu-style ramen in Harajuku. They thanked me warmly, saying they had a wonderful time, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShin-Urayasu~Tsukiji408JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Harajuku209JPY
    Section 3SubwayOmotesando~Shibuya178JPY
    Total795JPY

    My name is Kris,
    Before becoming a tour guide, I worked for a major steelmaking company as an engineer for many years. During my career, I lived and worked in both Germany and the United States for a total of five years. These experiences helped me understand different cultures and ways of thinking, which now helps me connect easily with guests from around the world.

    After retirement, I chose a second career as a tour guide because I truly enjoy meeting people from different countries and sharing Japanese culture, history, and daily life. I have been working as a guide for more than nine years and continue to enjoy every tour.

    I currently live in Tokyo, but I was born and raised in Kobe, near Osaka, and my family roots are in Kyoto. As a result, I have extensive knowledge not only of Tokyo but also of Kyoto, Osaka, and many other parts of Japan. I enjoy introducing both famous landmarks and hidden local gems that many visitors might otherwise miss.

    I am energetic, friendly, and very sociable. I always try to create tours that are relaxed, flexible, and tailored to my guests’ interests.

    Travel is one of my greatest passions, especially visiting hot spring resorts. I have visited more than 80 onsen destinations throughout Japan, giving me a deep appreciation of Japanese culture and regional traditions.

    Whether you are visiting Japan for the first time or returning for another adventure, I would be delighted to help you discover the real Japan from a local perspective.

    I look forward to meeting you and helping you create wonderful memories in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and beyond.

    See you in Japan!

    Kris

    May 10, 2026
    Matt_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful Introduction to Tokyo
    We were so lucky to have Kris-San…

    Apr 29, 2026
    Rebecca_M
    Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour
    We had such a wonderful…

    Apr 21, 2026
    jacquir581
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We love Kris
    Kris was awesome! He was very flexible when our…

    Apr 2, 2026
    Frank_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A great day in Tokyo
    Great tour with an excellent guide, Kris.…

  • Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • ① 10:00 Meet at JR Nara Station
    • ② 10:05 Explanation of the itinerary and the history of Nara at the station
    • ③ 10:20 Stroll along Sanjo-dori Street
    • ④ 10:40 Stroll around Naramachi (Naramachi Museum, Koshindo Hall, Jizo Bodhisattva, etc.)
    • ⑤ 11:00 Gangoji Temple
    • ⑥ 12:30 Lunch
    • ⑦ 13:30 Deer of Nara Park
    • ⑧ 14:00 Todaiji Temple
    • ⑨ 15:00 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • ⑩ 16:00 Disband at JR Nara Station

    Title: What's a Private Nara Day Tour from Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, planning to stay in Japan for an extended period. They first stayed in Kyoto and Osaka, and today they toured Nara before returning to their hotel in Osaka. Afterward, they planned to visit Hiroshima, Kobe, Nagoya, Hakone, and Tokyo, which sounded wonderful. Since they wanted to learn about the history of Japan and Nara, I focused on sharing the history of the ancient capital of Nara along with stories about Buddhism and Shinto. As I have found with previous guests, one of the guests mentioned becoming fascinated with the warlords of Japan's Warring States period through a video game. At Gangoji Temple, I tried explaining the worldview of Pure Land Buddhism — what Amida Nyorai, Yakushi Nyorai, and Dainichi Nyorai represent. I worried it might be difficult, but they listened patiently. One of the guests seemed to have little interest in history or Buddhism, but was delighted with the food — the persimmon leaf sushi, tempura, and nyumen noodle set were a big hit! Of course, the guests bought deer crackers and played with the deer, and I took many photos of those moments, which I sent to them afterward.

    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

    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…

  • Sendai & Matsushima Customized Half-Day Tour

    Sendai & Matsushima Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Meet at the 1F entrance of Hotel Premium Green Hills ~
    • 13:10 @AER Observation Deck ~ 13:50 @Zuihoden ~ 14:50 @Sendai Castle Ruins (walk from Gokoku Shrine ~ Date Masamune Equestrian Statue ~ Sendai Castle Kenbunkan ~ Sendai Castle Stone Wall viewing ~ to Otemon Wakiyagura Turret) ~ 15:50 @Sendai Ryokusaikan ~ 16:15 @Nishikicho Park (Sendai Christmas Market viewing) ~ 17:00 Disband at the hotel

    What Is a Half-Day Private Tour of Sendai Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was traveling solo from Asia and was visiting Japan for the first time to see a friend living in Sendai. Since the friend was busy and unable to show them around, the guest signed up for this tour. With a request to "see a lot of the city of Sendai" and an afternoon start, we decided to take a thorough look at Sendai while including the places the guest hoped to see. At the AER observation deck in front of Sendai Station, we visited both the front and the eastern observation decks, and the guest listened intently to the story of the tsunami. We moved between Zuihoden and the Sendai Castle ruins on the standard Loople Sendai bus. As always it was crowded, though not as much as on weekends. Currently, two of the three mausoleums at Zuihoden are under construction until the end of March, so I was unable to show them in full, but I used a chronology to explain the great achievements of Lord Masamune. The guest walked very quickly and the itinerary proceeded briskly, so thinking we might have time to spare, I suggested we walk to the Otemon Wakiyagura turret if they were interested. It is the only castle-like turret in Sendai, which no longer has a castle. Since Loople Sendai gets crowded, the Sendai City Transportation Bureau also recommends that visitors take the 10-minute walking route down the castle slope to the subway station. Because Sendai Castle was vast, with not only the main enclosure but also the second and third enclosures, before boarding the subway we stopped at the Sendai Ryokusaikan located on the site of the third enclosure and viewed exhibits such as the floats of the Aoba Festival. As there was still time to spare, we visited the Christmas market being held at Nishiki-cho Park before returning to the Hotel. The guest asked for recommendations on where to have dinner and where to visit the following day and beyond, so I suggested places such as Matsushima, Shiogama, and Ishinomaki, as well as strolling around Iroha Yokocho near the Hotel for dinner if there was time. I also mentioned that the Pageant of Starlight lights up at 7 p.m., and the guest said they would like to go to the market and the pageant again with their friend. I also let them know about pamphlets and links available in traditional Chinese characters.

    Hello! I’m Riko, your local guide. During the week, I work at a local university, but on weekends, I love to guide visitors like you. This year(2024) marks my 6th year as a guide, and I’m thrilled to continue sharing the beauty of Japan with you.
    I’m a certified Sake Navigator, so I have a wealth of knowledge about Japanese sake. Additionally, I’m well-versed in the gourmet scene of Sendai, Shiogama, and Matsushima, allowing me to tailor your tour to your culinary preferences!
    I look forward to creating a memorable tour experience for you, full of fun and lasting memories of Japan. Thanks for choosing me as your guide!

    May 10, 2026
    Nate_K
    Viator review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fun Day in the bay!
    Be ready to walk briskly…

    Apr 30, 2026
    Tanakainmaui
    Tripadvisor review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Riko-san is the best guide!
    I originally booked with TripAdvisor,…

    Mar 31, 2026
    NHDBuilder
    Tripadvisor review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    GO WITH “RIKO” FROM JAPAN GUIDE AGENCY
    This is our…

    Oct 3, 2025
    P
    Peggy_M
    This was a great tour with Riko
    Viator review: Sendai / Matsushima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Riko was…

  • Kyoto: Nanzen-ji Temple & Gion

    Kyoto: Nanzen-ji Temple & Gion

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel Hiyori Chapter Kyoto
    • 10: 45 to 11:30 Ginkaku-ji Temple
    • 11:50 to 12:30 Nanzen-ji Temple
    • 12:30 to 13:15 Lunch at a yudofu restaurant near Nanzen-ji Temple
    • 13:50 to 14:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 15:00 to 16:00 Sanjusangendo
    • 16:30 to 17:15 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 17:45 to 18:00 Gion
    • 18:00 Dismissal Gion

    What Is a Private Family Day Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group of four visiting from North America. It was said to be the coldest day of the winter in Kyoto, but the guests remarked that it was not so cold compared to where they were from, and they were dressed lightly for the tour. The guests walked very quickly, which allowed the tour to proceed exactly as planned. Some of the guests were interested in Japanese history and culture, and took many photos of my explanatory materials. This made me very happy.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusCity Bus Kyoto City Hall~City Bus Ginkaku-ji-michi230JPY
    Section 2BusCity Bus Ginkaku-ji-michi~City Bus Nanzen-ji Eikando-michi230JPY
    Section 3SubwayMunicipal Subway Keage~Municipal Subway Sanjo Keihan-mae220JPY
    Section 4TrainKeihan Railway Sanjo~Keihan Railway Fushimi Inari220JPY
    Section 5TrainKeihan Railway Fushimi Inari~Keihan Railway Shichijo170JPY
    Section 6BusCity Bus Museum/Sanjusangendo-mae~City Bus Gojozaka230JPY
    Total1,300JPY

    Personal data
    Born in : May 1st, 1957
    Hobby : Visiting scenic places,
    historic spots, Japanese
    gardens and old townscape
    Former career : Worked for electric
    company and engaged in
    international sales for
    about 40 years.
    Travel history in the former career :
    Visited about 20 countries about 200 times

    Career as guide interpreter
    Acquisition of guide license : 2016
    Career of guide : 8 years
    Genre of my specialty :
    Japanese historic structures such as
    temple, shrine, castle and garden.
    Area of guide : Kyoto, Nara, Osaka &
    Himeji

    Let’s enjoy Japan with me !!

    Dec 30, 2024
    shannono1010
    Haru is a Rock Star
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a fantastic guide. He explained…

    Dec 29, 2024
    Ali O
    Amazing!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was amazing on our tour of Nara. He was…

    Dec 4, 2024
    D5658ZEjohnr
    Trip to some of the Kyoto sites on our visit to Japan.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with…

    Dec 3, 2024
    Charlie_Jane00
    Kyoto Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a well organised and very informative guide. He…