Category: Uncategorized

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet at Hakone-Yumoto Station
    • →12:00 Lunch @ Dining Yamato
    • →13:30 Owakudani
    • →14:30 Pirate Ship
    • →15:30 Hakone Shrine
    • →17:00 Disband at Odawara Station

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private day tour of Hakone for the group on the final day of their trip in Japan. The guests had been very much looking forward to the views from the ropeway, and thanks to the fine weather, they enjoyed the beautiful nature of the area. We had originally planned to take a bus from Motohakone to Odawara Station, but Hakone was extremely crowded with tourists during this season, and after finally boarding a bus, an accident on the national road caused heavy traffic congestion, so getting off partway and switching to the mountain railway turned out to be the right decision. Since the group was staying in Gotemba, we parted ways at Odawara Station.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHakone-Yumoto～Gora5,000JPY
    Section 2OtherGora～Sounzan0JPY
    Section 3OtherSounzan～Owakudani, Togendai0JPY
    Section 4OtherTogendai～Motohakone Port0JPY
    Section 5BusMotohakone Port～Hakone-Yumoto0JPY
    Section 6TrainHakone-Yumoto～Odawara Station0JPY
    Total5,000JPY

    Tour Report by Yuki

    Hello, I’m Yukie Tachibana, national licensed tour guide living in Yokohama with my family. Please call me Yuki. I have been working as a tour guide for 5years mainly around Tokyo, Kanagawa, for example, Hakone, Kamakura, Yokohama and Kawasaki. I have had an experience of attending a lot of foreign visitors from all over the world in both private and group tours for sightseeing and business in one to multi-days. I’m able to arrange the tour for you, so please feel free to ask me your favorite plan in Japan as to spot, food and some activities. I like to see Buddhist statues in temples so I’d like to introduce our history and culture. Also because I like Japanese animation and character, and animals, I can take you to some shops for the animation and animal cafes that are so popular among tourists. Looking forward to seeing you soon and share wonderful time in Japan! Thank you.

    Request Booking

    May 1, 2026
    444CraigH
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Tokyo in a day from Yokohama
    We had a great…

    Apr 16, 2026
    Adele P
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely Yokohama!
    We had a lovely day in Yokohama with Yukie…

    Oct 17, 2025
    LeslieS1560
    Intro to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yuki was awesome. She reached out right after we…

    Jun 27, 2025
    L
    L3151LVdavidl
    Amazing Kamakura Tour with Yukie
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing tour with…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: JR Miyajima Ferry & Peace Memorial Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: JR Miyajima Ferry & Peace Memorial Park

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30　Meet guests at Hilton Hiroshima
    • 8:45　Taxi: Hilton Hiroshima ~ Hiroshima Station
    • 9:16-9:43　JR: Hiroshima Station ~ Miyajimaguchi Station
    • 9:55-10:05　JR Miyajima Ferry
    • 10:05-14:00　Miyajima sightseeing
    • 14:10-14:20　JR Miyajima Ferry
    • 14:34-14:58　JR: Miyajimaguchi ~ Shin-Hakushima Station
    • 15:00-15:15　Taxi: Shin-Hakushima Station ~ Hiroshima Castle
    • 15:15-15:30　Hiroshima Castle sightseeing
    • 15:30-15:40　Taxi: Hiroshima Castle ~ Atomic Bomb Dome
    • 15:40-16:20　Peace Memorial Park sightseeing
    • 16:30　Disband at the Peace Memorial Museum

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report ■ Meeting the Guests The guests' booking information listed a certain hotel, but when I contacted them in advance, I learned that they were actually staying at a different hotel. When I met the guests in the hotel lobby, they gave me some sweets as a souvenir. They were very warm, and I felt the day was going to be a lot of fun. I arranged a taxi and we headed to Hiroshima Station. ■ Miyajima It was drizzling while we were on the ferry, but it soon stopped and the weather cleared up, which was nice. It was crowded all the way to Itsukushima Shrine, so we moved while avoiding the crowds, but Daishoin Temple was relatively quiet and we were able to look around at a leisurely pace. We talked about many things while having lunch and soaking in the footbath near Daishoin Temple. The guests also found the Jizo charm they had been looking for, and we were able to finish the Miyajima tour enjoyably. ■ Hiroshima Castle We took a taxi from Shin-Hakushima Station to Hiroshima Castle. While waiting for the taxi, we recommended our favorite desserts to each other inside a convenience store. At Hiroshima Castle, since one of the guests was not feeling well in the lower back, we decided to view it from the outside rather than going inside. They mentioned that entering Osaka Castle had meant standing in a long line, but Hiroshima Castle had fewer people so they could look around at a relaxed pace. ■ Peace Memorial Park and Peace Memorial Museum At the Atomic Bomb Dome, after slowly walking all the way around, the guests said that leaders of countries currently at war must absolutely visit this place. The basement of the Rest House was also very crowded, but they looked earnestly at what was written on the walls. Since we planned to part ways at the Peace Memorial Museum, the guests rented audio guides. They were warm and full of humor right up to the very end, and I was happy to be able to tour Hiroshima together. Over the past few days I have often guided guests who were experiencing foot pain, so I felt it would be good to have routes through central Hiroshima and Miyajima, which involve a lot of walking, that allow guests to move around without straining their feet. Thank you very much once again.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi Station420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi Station～Shin-Hakushima Station330JPY
    Total750JPY

    Tour Report by Riona

    Hello! I am Riona. I will be your guide in Hiroshima. I was born and raised in Hiroshima and currently attend a university in Hiroshima.
    I just started guiding and am very happy to be able to show everyone around my favorite city, Hiroshima.
    I like to eat, travel, talk to people, dance, and play the saxophone, and I look forward to traveling with you all, talking and eating good food !!
    When you see this message, please contact me via WhatsApp.
    If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask me before the tour.
    Let me help you create wonderful travel memories.
    Thank you.

    Request Booking

    Jun 8, 2025
    andrewcW9931RV
    Poignant and insightful trip made special by our knowledgeable,kind and generous guide
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with…

    Nov 9, 2024
    samsJ3261JY
    A fabulous day!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Riona was an excellent guide for…

    Oct 16, 2024
    josefamart_nn
    Estupendo recorrido
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Sitios muy pintorescos e interesantes, Explicados muy…

    Oct 8, 2024
    M4850DOmikec
    Incredible experience to see Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    The tour was a great…

  • Osaka in One Day: Kuromon Market & Umeda Sky Building

    Osaka in One Day: Kuromon Market & Umeda Sky Building

    Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ JR Shin-Osaka Station
    • 10:30 @ Namba, Doguyasuji
    • 11:00 @ Kuromon Market
    • 11:45 @ Dotonbori・Hozenji
    • 12:30 @ Shinsaibashi Daimaru Department Store
    • 13:00 @ Umeda Sky Building
    • 13:30 Dismissal @ Umeda Sky Building, Underground Food Court

    Title: What Is a Private Osaka Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests moved along smoothly throughout the tour. Although the confirmation document beforehand had listed a single participant, there seemed to have been some error, as the group was there from the start. Neither of the guests seemed particularly interested in the individual spots, and it was difficult to understand what they were most interested in. In the earlier communication, they had appeared to wish for shopping and dining around Namba, Kuromon Market, and Dotonbori, but in reality they passed through these areas. As a result, the schedule was shortened considerably, and we parted ways with more than two hours to spare, which felt a little regrettable and left me feeling apologetic toward the guests. At the final spot, the guests wished to eat at the restaurant area in the basement of the Umeda Sky Building, so I guided them there and we parted ways. They also mentioned that they would afterward visit Osaka Castle and Namba Yasaka Shrine, and I informed them that Osaka Castle in particular needed to be entered by around 16:00. I think I should have confirmed the guests' wishes a little more thoroughly in advance.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShin-Osaka～Namba290JPY
    Section 2SubwayShinsaibashi～Umeda240JPY
    Total530JPY

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

    This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
    I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
    real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
    if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

    Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
    that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
    and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
    foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
    Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
    explanation for these three foods.

    1) Tako-yaki
    Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
    octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
    2) Okonomi-yaki
    This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
    Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
    3) Kushi-katsu
    Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
    ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

    Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
    that you like them very much.

    I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
    and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
    great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

    Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
    Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
    Yama

    Request Booking

    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Diane_B
    Viator review: Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Yama was amazing!!
    Our tour guide…

    Jul 4, 2026
    Navigator661725
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful time!
    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…

  • 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

    • 1.09:42 Meet up @ Naoshima Miyanoura Port
    • 2.10:45~11:45 Chichu Art Museum
    • 3.12:00~12:45 Lee Ufan Museum, Valley Gallery
    • 4.13:00~14:20 Lunch @ Benesse House Museum Cafe, Benesse House Museum and outdoor art works (including Yellow Pumpkin, etc.)
    • 6.14:40~15:45 Art House Project: Ishibashi → Minamidera (reserved 15:05~15:35) → Gokaisho → Kadoya
    • 7.16:05~16:15 Red Pumpkin
    • 8. 16:20 Disband @ Naoshima Miyanoura Port Ferry Terminal Building

    What Is a Private Naoshima Art Island Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report It was a little warm, but we were blessed with clear autumn skies, and I was able to enjoy guiding for the whole day. It may have been partly flattery, but the guests told me they felt fortunate that I was their guide, and I believe they were satisfied. Naoshima was crowded with international visitors during this season, and the bus from Miyanoura Port heading toward Tsutsujiso was full, so we could not board. Fortunately, an extra bus came 15 minutes later. Our entry to the Chichu Art Museum was delayed by about 15 minutes, but I adjusted the rest of the schedule and we were able to visit all the planned destinations as intended. The guests were a lively group from North America, and I could guide them without worrying about walking or going up and down stairs. They listened attentively to my explanations, and one of the guests in particular was interested in art, which made guiding very rewarding. Having heard about James Turrell's works from a friend, they were interested, so they enjoyed the pieces at the Chichu Art Museum and Minamidera. The guests mentioned it was difficult to book Benesse's hotel on Naoshima, so they stayed in Osaka instead. They were on a trip to Japan covering Tokyo and Hakone, followed by Naoshima, Osaka, and Kyoto. They said they were enjoying their travels in Japan very much. I think they were fortunate to have a good environment.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusMiyanoura Port～Tsutsujiso100JPY
    Section 2BusTsutsujiso～Nokyo-mae100JPY
    Section 3BusNokyo-mae～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 in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Nishiki Market

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Nishiki Market

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at Hotel Premier Kyoto
    • 9:10 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 10:50 Hanamikoji ~ Yasui Konpiragu
    • 11:30 Yasaka Pagoda ~ Yasaka Koshindo ~ Sannenzaka
    • 12:20 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 13:30 Nishiki Market
    • 14:00 Disband at Nishiki Market

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Gion, and Nishiki Market Today I guided a group of friends visiting from Oceania on a private one-day tour of Kyoto. The guests were interested in Japanese culture but wanted to experience more than just temples. We first visited Fushimi Inari Taisha, which for some reason was much less crowded than usual, making it easy to take photos, and the guests were delighted. Afterwards, I took them to the Gion district, and they really loved its atmosphere. I believe they also enjoyed spots such as the Yasaka Pagoda and Yasui Konpiragu. They enjoyed lunch at Nishiki Market as well. I think they were happy to have an experience different from the usual.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari～Gion-Shijo220JPY
    Section 3BusHigashiyama Yasui～Shijo Kawaramachi230JPY
    Total600JPY

    Tour Report by Kaeko

    Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

    Request Booking

    Jul 25, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Half-day with private guide in Kyoto
    We spent half a day…

    Jul 24, 2026
    J6711TVnancyb
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Family Fun Day in Kyoto with young children
    Kaeko Tanigawa was fantastic at helping us create…

    Jul 13, 2026
    elizabethtW414DU
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Private Tour
    Kaeko was absolutely amazing from start…

    Jul 12, 2026
    johnkE8649IH
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Kyoto Day Tour
    We had a wonderful experience touring Kyoto…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:30 Meet up @The Westin Miyako Kyoto
    • 2. 8:45 @Nijo Castle
    • 3. 10:45 @Obaiin Temple
    • 4. 11:30 Disband @Obaiin Temple

    What Is a Private Kyoto Tour Like for Guests Who Prefer a Slower Pace? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests walked at a fairly slow pace, but walking was possible, so we chatted about various things as we went. Wheelchairs could be borrowed at both Nijo Castle and Obaiin Temple, but Obaiin had steps in several places, and each time the guest had to get out of the wheelchair. Since wheelchairs are offered for rent, it would be good if a little more consideration were given to this. The Kyoto Imperial Palace, which the guests had hoped to visit, was closed for a substitute holiday for Sports Day. I had explained this to the guests in advance and had also provided information about the English guided tours so that they could enjoy it on their own. They were very pleased and said it was extremely helpful to receive so much information before the tour began. Since the guests had decided from the outset to visit only two locations, we parted ways on site after finishing at Obaiin Temple.

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

    Tour Report by YUKA

    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!

    Request Booking

    Jul 25, 2026
    Ann W
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Early Morning Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    One of the highlights of my trip, perfect for solo…

    Jul 14, 2026
    Elizabeth W
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour, Licensed Guide
    Great tour
    We had a great tour with…

    Jul 11, 2026
    Dianna-fam
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Wonderful Tour, Wonderful Guide!
    My teenage boys and I…

    Jul 1, 2026
    Christian_L
    Viator review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kyoto visite with Yuka : Wow !
    Wow ! Yuka was…

  • 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

    • 1. 09:20 Meet up @ Hotel Premier Asakusa
    • 2. 09:25 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 10:05 Stay @ East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 4. 11:25 Travel: Subway
    • 5. 11:40 Stay @ Tsukiji
    • 6. 12:30 Lunch @ Tsukiji Sushisei Main Store
    • 7. 13:10 Travel: Walking
    • 8. 13:20 Stay @ Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 9. 14:20 Travel: Subway
    • 10. 14:50 Stay @ Asakusa
    • 11. 15:35 Disband @ Hotel Premier Asakusa

    What Is a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, and Hamarikyu I have visited the Asakusa hotel used as the meeting point several times in the past. Its distance from the station can be a drawback, but when Asakusa is included among the requested spots, as it was this time, it is convenient because travel to and from the Hotel does not take much time, allowing us to use the day efficiently. Among the requested spots I had heard about in advance, I thought it might be uncertain whether we could visit Hamarikyu, but since the guests did not mind walking for long stretches, we were able to walk from Tsukiji to Hamarikyu, which shortened the overall time of the tour. The guests responded well to every spot, but they seemed especially fond of the sushi at Tsukiji. I think one of the charms of Tsukiji is that there are still many sushi restaurants where you can enjoy a meal at a reasonable price.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa Station～Otemachi Station180JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi Station～Tsukiji Station180JPY
    Section 3SubwayShimbashi Station～Asakusa Station210JPY
    Total570JPY

    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.

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    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…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji & Gion

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji & Gion

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Meeting point: JR Kyoto Station (Shinkansen Central Gate)
    • 12:50 Sightseeing ①: Kinkaku-ji
    • 14:20 Sightseeing ②: Arashiyama (Togetsukyo Bridge ⇒ Tenryu-ji ⇒ Bamboo Grove Path)
    • 15:30 Break (cafe near Saga-Arashiyama Station)
    • 16:40 Sightseeing ③: Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 17:30 Sightseeing ④: Gion
    • 18:00 Dismissal: Gion (Hanamikoji Street)

    Can You Do a Private One-Day Trip from Tokyo to Kyoto? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests this time were a group of former high school classmates visiting Japan from Oceania. Advance communication and coordination were handled with one member of the group, and the day after I sent my first message, I received a thoughtful reply introducing the group members and outlining their preferred destinations, so communication proceeded extremely smoothly. Regarding the destinations, this was a "day trip from Tokyo," and while their basic wish list included Kinkaku-ji, Fushimi Inari, the Bamboo Grove, and Gion, they had many additional requests such as "we'd like to ride a boat in Arashiyama if possible, and enjoy street food at Nishiki Market," and "could we do a tea ceremony experience somewhere?" On my part, I asked for their understanding that all travel would be by public transportation, that the walking distances would be long and rest breaks would be needed along the way, and that since some destinations were far apart, it would be impossible to accommodate every request within a six-hour course. In the end, I proposed the four locations noted above, and they agreed. On the day, when I actually met the group at Kyoto Station, it was a very cheerful and close-knit group. The guests were full of enthusiasm to actively enjoy sightseeing in Kyoto. At the outset, when I asked for their understanding that "if you want to ride a boat in Arashiyama, there won't be time to visit Gion at the end," they said they were fine without the boat. At first, I too was concerned about the difficulty of traveling the entire route by public transportation, but thanks to everyone being energetic and moving briskly, we were able to proceed through nearly the whole itinerary as planned. However, by the time we finished exploring Arashiyama, everyone's fatigue had understandably peaked, so I judged that a break was needed and we took a fifteen-minute rest at a café just before JR Saga-Arashiyama Station. This too was well received and appreciated by the guests. The content of my guiding and my conversations with the guests ranged widely — from the history and culture of each destination to everyday Japanese life, the education system, and the pension system — and they listened with great interest, including to some of my own personal stories. It was my first time guiding a group like this, but it turned out to be a fun tour full of constant laughter.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto～Kitaoji260JPY
    Section 2BusKitaoji Bus Terminal～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 3BusKinkakuji-michi～Kitano-Hakubaicho230JPY
    Section 4TrainKitano-Hakubaicho～Arashiyama250JPY
    Section 5TrainSaga-Arashiyama～Inari240JPY
    Section 6TrainFushimi-Inari～Gion-Shijo220JPY
    Total1,430JPY

    Tour Report by Nori

    Hi, everyone! I’m Norifumi Kamon, a government registered guide interpreter. Please call me “Nori”, or “Kamon-san”.
    Let me introdece myself. I was born on April 17th in 1952 in Miyazaki prefecture in Kyushu island. I used to be an English teacher of Osaka Prefectural high school. When I retired from a teacher ten years ago, I decided to get a professional guide license. I wanted to play a role of the bridge between Japanese people and the people from all over the world as a second life of mine. After two years efforts, I finally got the guide license. Since then, I have guided several handreds of foreign people mainly in Kyoto and Nara for about five years except Corona Pandemic period. Almost all the tourists were deeply impressed by the beauty of nature, traditoin, culture, and art of Japan. I can surely help you enjoy and be satisfied with the sightseeing in Japan. And I’m looking forward to seeing you soon.

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    Apr 9, 2026
    Ron_W
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We saw so much in the…
    We saw so much in the…

    Mar 24, 2026
    zackn719
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Knowledgeable guide and a great tour
    We did our private tour with…

    Oct 20, 2025
    66speech
    Highlights of Kyoto.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience with Nori. Nori exceeded our expectations with…

    Oct 16, 2025
    Michael_H
    Thoroughly enjoyed the…
    Viator review: Osaka Off the Beaten Path 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
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  • Kawagoe Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kawagoe Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kawagoe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:50 Meet at Hotel　9:10 Shinjuku Station　10:15 Arrive at Kawagoe　Flair Mall⇒Taisho Roman Street⇒Ichibangai Street　11:00 Break at cafe　11:30 Bell Tower
    • 11:45 Kashiya Yokocho　12:00 Break　12:15 Kawagoe Station　13:15 Disband at Shinjuku Station

    Title: What Is a Private Kawagoe Day Tour from Shinjuku Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Before the tour, the guests explained that they would be able to walk without any problem. When I met the group at the Hotel, they suggested taking a taxi to Shinjuku Station instead of walking. After arriving in Kawagoe, it was a ten-minute walk to the first destination. We rested at a cafe and then resumed the tour. About three hours after the tour began, the guests decided to end the tour early and return to Shinjuku, so the three of us headed back together. Even so, from meeting to parting it came to about four hours, so the timing worked out well. We looked for an elevator each time and used it. Although the walking portions of the tour were challenging, during our conversations on the trains to and from the destination and at the cafe, the guests enjoyed a wide range of topics such as Japanese history and the political system.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Kawagoe648JPY
    Section 2BusIchibangai Street～Kawagoe Station West Exit210JPY
    Section 3TrainKawagoe～Shinjuku648JPY
    Total1,506JPY

    Tour Report by Shinji

    Before I started the guiding job in 2022, I had worked for private companies and been engaged in overseas business, which led me to be stationed in various English-speaking countries. Taking advantage of such experiences and also wishing to reciprocate the kindness extended to me during my career, I have decided to help visitors to Japan enjoy their stay and obtained a national guide license.
    I am very honored and pleased to assist guests from overseas and enjoy seeing them having a great time visiting interesting spots in Japan and learning about the country. I look forward to serving more new guests and seeing them smile at the end of my private tours.

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    Jun 8, 2025
    T1516LOmarkg
    Tokyo tour
    Tripadvisor review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Great tour, Shinji was great, they…

    Feb 28, 2025
    LaToya_S
    Mr. Shinji is so nice and…
    Viator review: Kamakura 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
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    Feb 27, 2025
    Edward_M
    Friendly and Knowledgeable Tour Guide
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
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    Feb 17, 2025
    Trip29223434750
    Heavenly Hakone with an angelic guide
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
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  • Kumamoto in One Day: Suizenji Jojuen & Hosokawa Gyobutei Residence

    Kumamoto in One Day: Suizenji Jojuen & Hosokawa Gyobutei Residence

    Kumamoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:20-13:15 Suizenji Jojuen Garden
    • 13:20-13:25 Miso Tenjin Shrine
    • 13:35-13:40 Kumamoto Castle from City Hall Observation Floor
    • 14:00-15:00 Lunch at Josaien
    • 15:10-16:10 Kumamoto Castle
    • 16:20-16:30 Kato Shrine
    • 16:40-16:50 Hosokawa Gyobutei Residence
    • 17:00-17:15 Castle Town, Meihachi Bridge

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Kumamoto City from a Cruise Ship Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The tour was a day trip to Kumamoto City from a cruise ship, arranged through [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/). Immigration took a long time, so we met at the parking area after 12:00. Since the guests needed to return to the port by 19:00, we decided to explore the castle town for as long as time allowed. However, out of concern about the evening traffic congestion and because the guests were already tired from walking, they chose to head back early to be safe. In addition to explaining the historical timeline and diagrams of the local groundwater, I also used materials to describe Protestant activity in Kumamoto, and lunch became quite lively with a discussion about Christianity in Japan. The guests had requested authentic, photogenic historical spots, so although we moved somewhat quickly given the limited time, I had confirmed the details many times by email and believe I was able to meet their requests.

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

    Tour Report by Jun

    I worked for KUMAMOTO Prefecture as a local government officer. Most of my work was tourism promotion in Kumamoto. Now I retired, I love Kumamoto and I wish you also love Kumamoto after the tour.
    I like sports activities, running, trekking, cycling and hiking. If you are interested in such activities, you’ll know another face of Japan.
    Of course, I am good at history and geography in Japan. I can explain why the events were occurred as an interesting story.
    I traveled not only Japan, but many oversea countries. I know what international visitors want and worry. I guarantee your happy trip in Japan. And I hope you’ll like Japan more and more.

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    Oct 15, 2024
    betsy_b
    Great guide
    Viator review: Kumamoto Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Jun was an excellent guide. Very well prepared. Showed us…

    Aug 25, 2024
    Maxine_B
    Phenomenal Tour Guide
    Viator review: Kumamoto Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Jun was very informative. He had…

    Jun 14, 2024
    GylM
    Jun-san was very accommodating and super helpful. Best way to see as much of Kumamoto city as possible in a day.…