Category: Uncategorized

  • 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. 13:00 Meet at Grand Hyatt Tokyo
    • 2. 13:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 3. 14:45 Shibuya Crossing
    • 4. 15:30 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 5. 17:00 Asakusa Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise
    • 6. 18:15 Ameyoko
    • 7. 18:45 Disband at Akihabara Station, in the vehicle

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Shibuya, and Asakusa The guests, who were planning to travel around East Asia, began their journey in Tokyo. I explained the complex metropolitan area using the subway network map. From Meiji Shrine, we moved to the lively climax of the Shibuya Crossing. As expected, the traffic on the public holiday was tremendous, and it was one of the busiest days of the year. The guests actually crossed the intersection themselves and became absorbed in filming videos. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, we unfortunately ran out of time and could not see the gardens. I feel very sorry about this. I regret that there was room for improvement, such as visiting the gardens first. In Asakusa, the guests enjoyed delicious street food such as grilled crab and fried chicken from the food stalls. At Ameyoko, they unexpectedly enjoyed buying snacks at a confectionery shop.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassNogizaka～Meiji-jingumae600JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku～Shibuya150JPY
    Section 3Free PassShibuya～Otemachi0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTakebashi～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 5Free PassAsakusa～Ueno0JPY
    Section 6Free PassNaka-okachimachi～Akihabara0JPY
    Total750JPY

    Tour Report by Kei

    Born and raised in Tokyo a half-century ago, I have lived in Tokyo all my life except for one year in the UK to study for a master’s course. I am a Tokyo Native with viewpoints based on broader local knowledge than anyone else. I have specialised in Japanese history, culture, and architecture since I was an architect.
    Also, I am a foodie emphasising Japanese traditional & healthy foods. I’ve been to many countries around the world, such as the US, Central America, Europe, and Asia. As such, I believe I can anticipate the needs of foreign tourists in Japan.

    Despite my experience as a guide for just two years, we can make the best out of our tour by travelling from your hotel to spots time-efficiently with my local knowledge, while accommodating your unexpected requests during the tour.
    My strong area includes Yanesen; Old Temples in a Quaint Village, Kamakura, Asakusa Sensoji, Meiji Shrine and Imperial Palace. All give you peace of mind.

    Request Booking

    Oct 22, 2025
    I5562SWphilipk
    Great intro to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kei was a genial and knowledgeable host, who…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Gary H
    Great tour of Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We loved our tour! Our guide was…

    Oct 5, 2025
    C
    Cindy_S
    Had one day in Tokyo and…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Had one day in Tokyo…

    Sep 15, 2025
    chrishN2970OC
    A highly enjoyable tour of Tokyo with knowledgeable local guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Withdraw money at the convenience store

    Kyoto in One Day: Withdraw money at the convenience store

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:50 Meet at the hotel.
    • 9:55–10:15 Withdraw money at the convenience store.
    • 10:30 Take the JR to Fushimi Inari.
    • 10:45–11:30 Fushimi Inari
    • 11:40 Take the Keihan to Shichijo
    • 12:00–12:40 Sanjusangendo
    • 12:50–13:50 Lunch at Hyatt Regency Higashiyama
    • 13:50–15:00 Take a taxi to Kiyomizu-michi, then Kiyomizu-dera via Yasaka Pagoda.
    • 15:10–15:30 Donguri Republic
    • 15:40–16:20 Yasaka Shrine, Gion
    • 16:20 Disband

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, and Gion We were able to meet up early. At a convenience store, the guests were unable to withdraw Japanese yen from their card, and even after asking the staff, the cause could not be determined, so in the end they decided to exchange the dollars they had on hand. At Fushimi Inari, the guests took photos at the thousands of torii gates and other spots, and I explained how to worship at the shrine so they could pay their respects. After I explained the "omokaru ishi" (wishing stone), they tried it themselves and seemed to enjoy it. The guests took many photos of the Japanese garden at Sanjusangendo. At Kiyomizu-dera, one of the guests had trouble with their knee, so they waited while I guided the others, who enjoyed experiences such as pouring water over the Kannon statue. One of the guests found the route from the main hall to the Koyasu Pagoda and Otowa Waterfall to be a pleasant walk. The younger member of the group also seemed to like the scenery of Kiyomizu-dera and took many photos. On the way to Gion, we stopped by a character goods shop so the younger guest could take photos with Totoro. After the tour ended in Gion, since the guests were returning to their accommodation, I hailed a taxi, told the driver the name of the hotel, and said goodbye to them there.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainJR Kyoto Station～Inari Station150JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari～Shichijo230JPY
    Total380JPY

    Tour Report by Hiro

    Nice to meet you.
    My name is Hiroki Muramoto, please call me Hiro.
    Hiro in Japanese means large or big. Although I’m neither large nor big, you can call me Hiro. How are you doing ?
    I lived in a city nearby Kobe city. Do you know Kobe ? Kobe is famous for Kobe beef and pearl. If you have not yet had Kobe beef, you should taste the authentic Kobe beef. It is very satisfying taste. But I have recently moved to a city in Kyoto prefecture, so I can be in Kyoto city in about one hour. By the way, I am a family of four. I have a son and a daughter. My son now works in Tokyo. I sometimes go to Tokyo to see him. Tokyo is a huge city, but too crowded, so it seems not to suit me. I seem to be better suited to a small city than a big one. Where do you live in ? How many families do you have ? If you like, please tell me about them. I worked in the quality assurance department of a pharmaceutical company and visited the factories of foreign affiliated companies, so I became interested in foreign cultures and obtained a qualification as an interpreter guide in 2015.

    I have been a guide for about eight years. During that time, I have guided in Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara, Kochi and so on, although I could do little guiding work between 2020 and 2022 due to COVID-19. However, since last year, my guiding work has been back! So, I am happy to be able to meet different people again. My hobby is travelling, but sadly, I am not in a position to travel abroad easily at the moment due to the very weak yen, and I hope to travel abroad again when the situation eases a bit more.
    How many countries have you been to so far ? Which countries have you liked so far? Another hobby is watching sports – baseball and football. Do you like the baseball ? Do you know Otani, Japanese baseball player ? He has joined Dodgers in Los Angeles this year. I look forward to another successful year for Otani.

    By the way, what interests you in Japan? Food, history, scenery ? As far as tourist attractions are concerned, famous places are too crowded. If you like, I also would like to show you some less crowded places. Are you interested in experiencing something ? If you want to experience something, I can suggest an experience plan for you. If so, please contact me as early as possible. As for food, what kind of food do you like? There are many kinds of delicious food. Of course, you can get good food in fine restaurants, but you can also get good food in downtown restaurants. If you like alcohol, why don’t you try Japanese sake? It can range from light and fragrant to rich in flavor, so you’re sure to find a Japanese sake you like.

    My motto is “Be content with life.” However, I find myself complaining all the time. If you like, please tell me your motto. I want to treat all guests who visit Japan with the spirit of “Treasure every encounter” and guide them so that they can enjoy themselves and have good memories of Japan.
    You only live once (YOLO). So, I also want to enjoy it with you.

    I look forward to meeting you.
    Best regard.

    Request Booking

    Nov 27, 2024
    Julianne_A
    Book it
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was a wonderful experience with our guide Hiro. He…

  • Shizuoka: Shizuoka Station Front City

    Shizuoka: Shizuoka Station Front City

    Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet at Hinode Pier, travel by 2 taxis
    • 11:25 Nihondaira Ropeway, Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, Nihondaira Yume Terrace
    • 13:30 Travel to Sunpu Castle Park by 2 taxis.
    • 14:00 Sunpu Castle Park, oden, tea served at Momijiyama Garden
    • 15:30 Shizuoka Station Front City Walk
    • 16:00 Travel from Shizuoka Station to Shimizu Station by JR
    • 16:30 Take the shuttle bus to S-Pulse Dream Plaza
    • 17:00 Disband at S-Pulse Dream Plaza

    What Is a Private Nikko Toshogu Tour Like for a Group Interested in Japanese Tea? A Licensed Guide's Report I was asked on short notice, just three days in advance, to take over a tour because the originally assigned guide from a rural prefecture had experienced a bereavement in the family. I guided a group of guests visiting from North America. Since most of the guests preferred a slower pace, we walked leisurely. A taxi had been reserved in advance and the plan was well organized, so we were able to carry out the itinerary as scheduled. One of the guests was unable to climb the 60 steps at Toshogu Shrine, so they waited at the bottom. Since the guests were interested in tea, I drew on my knowledge as a Japanese tea advisor to introduce them to a tea service at Momijiyama Garden and to a long-established tea shop near Shizuoka Station.

    Click here for more details: Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShizuoka～Shimizu240JPY
    Total240JPY

    Tour Report by TerryHirao

    My name is Terry Hirao, Shizuoka’s local tour guide. You can call me Terry, as in Teriyaki. I love Japan and Japanese culture and can show you the best of Japan, its history, breathtaking beauty, delicious foods, Japanese Tea. Shizoka is located in the middle of Tokyo and Kyoto/Osaka, two largest metropolitan cities and famous for Mt. Fuji, Japanese Tea and a lot more. The most popular destinations in Shizuoka are Nihon Daira Plateau, Kunozan Toshogu Shrines (National Treasure), Miho Pine Tree Grove (World Cultural Heritage). I hope I can help you enjoy your trip!!

    Request Booking

    Nov 6, 2024
    andrew h
    Very knowledgeable tour guide of the area
    Tripadvisor review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    Very…

    Oct 21, 2024
    Adventurer_from_Cda
    We had a great time – we enjoyed having Terry H as our guide for Shizuoka/Shimizu! Thank you!
    Tripadvisor review: Shizuoka/Shimizu…

    Sep 16, 2024
    Jane_R
    Great experience on this Mt Fuji private tour
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    Terry…

    Aug 21, 2024
    Go02797182361
    Too cloudy for Mt Fuji but still a great tour with Terry
    Tripadvisor review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private…

  • Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 7:00 Meet up @Centara Osaka
    • 2. 8:20 @Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 3. 12:00 @Kinkaku-ji
    • 4. 13:00 @Kiyomizu-dera
    • 5. 14:00 @Yasaka Pagoda
    • 6. 15:00 Disband @Teramachi Shopping Street

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests included someone who had visited Japan quite a while ago and someone whose work involves photography and journalism. The itinerary had been decided in advance, but along the way one of the guests showed me some old photographs, expressing a wish to revisit certain places and see them again. It turned out that a place they had thought was Gion was actually Kiyomizu-dera Temple, so we ended up significantly changing the itinerary on the spot. Since time was limited and they mentioned wanting to see a bit more of Kyoto on their own, I set the ending point in Kyoto and explained things so that they could continue sightseeing independently. They said they liked katsudon, so I took them to Katsukura, and after the tour I received an email saying it was the most delicious katsudon they had ever eaten.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNamba～Yodoyabashi190JPY
    Section 2TrainYodoyabashi～Fushimi Inari420JPY
    Section 3TrainInari～Kyoto150JPY
    Section 4TrainKyoto～Kitaoji260JPY
    Section 5BusKitaoji Bus Terminal～Kinkaku-ji-michi230JPY
    Section 6SubwayShijo～Kyoto220JPY
    Section 7TrainKyoto～Osaka580JPY
    Total2,050JPY

    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…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: JR Miyajima Ferry

    Hiroshima in One Day: JR Miyajima Ferry

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

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet the guests in front of the hotel
    • 8:50-9:11 Streetcar: Chudenmae Station – Yokogawa Station
    • 9:16-9:32 JR: Yokogawa Station – Miyajimaguchi Station
    • 9:40-9:50 JR Miyajima Ferry
    • 10:00-12:50 Miyajima sightseeing – Itsukushima Shrine, Daishoin Temple –
    • 13:20-14:20 Lunch
    • 14:45-14:55 JR Miyajima Ferry
    • 15:00-15:52 Streetcar: Hiroden Miyajimaguchi Station – Genbaku Dome-mae Station
    • 16:00-17:00 Peace Memorial Park sightseeing – Atomic Bomb Dome, Aioi Bridge, Motoyasu Bridge, Children's Peace Monument, Rest House, Cenotaph for the A-bomb Victims, etc. –
    • 17:00 Disperse on the 1st floor of the Peace Memorial Museum

    What Is a Private Miyajima and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The tour began with meeting the guests on the first floor of a hotel in Hiroshima. Since the guests did not have cash on hand, I covered the expenses during the tour, and it was arranged that they would exchange their money for Japanese yen at the currency exchange machine in the Peace Memorial Museum at the end and settle the final amount. Since many places on Miyajima only accept cash, this kind of situation can arise, and I would like to think about how to respond more smoothly in the future. At Miyajima, the guests all loved taking photos, so we went around carefully capturing each spot one by one. Everyone had wonderfully bright smiles, and every photo turned out lovely. The fortunes the guests drew at Itsukushima Shrine all came out very favorable, which made the atmosphere even more enjoyable. Lunch at Yamaichi was not only delicious, but the guests were also delighted that the staff spoke Spanish. At the Peace Memorial Museum, because the tour was running significantly behind schedule and the guests were tired after all the walking on Miyajima, I guided them while taking some shortcuts from the usual route. It left a strong impression on me when, looking at the Atomic Bomb Dome, one of the guests said that the atomic bomb was absolutely not a way to end the war. As for my impressions, the guests loved taking photos, and as I went around trying not to interrupt the time they spent seriously photographing, the schedule had already fallen far behind by the time we reached Itsukushima Shrine. Fortunately, the guests said they had no particular plans after the tour, but as a guide, failing at time management is a serious shortcoming. I want to apply this reflection to next time. Traveling around Hiroshima while chatting with the cheerful group, who taught me about Spain and talked about the daily lives of Japanese people, was very enjoyable for me as well. They planned to go to karaoke after the tour, so I recommended a good karaoke place. I was overwhelmed at the end by the energy of the group, who were heading to karaoke after walking around Miyajima and downtown Hiroshima all day. It was a very enjoyable day once again. Thank you very much.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainChudenmae Station～Yokogawa Station220JPY
    Section 2TrainYokogawa Station～Miyajimaguchi Station330JPY
    Section 3TrainHiroden Miyajimaguchi Station～Genbaku Dome-mae Station220JPY
    Total770JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Meet up @ Conrad
    • 12:15 Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:45 Lunch @ Aozora Sandaime Tsukiji Main Store
    • 14:15 Asakusa (Kaminarimon, Nakadori, Sensoji Temple, Hoppy Street, Chazen)
    • 16:00 Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street entrance
    • 17:15 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 18:00 Disband @ Conrad

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like Before a Cruise? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were an older group from Europe, spending a day exploring Tokyo before boarding a cruise ship departing for Southeast Asia. One of the guests had visited Japan many times for work in the past but had never done any sightseeing. Before their arrival in Japan, we exchanged around 20 emails, and in the end I helped arrange not only the sushi restaurant for today's lunch but also a teppanyaki dinner for the previous evening and a tea ceremony experience for the following day (they entered their own credit card details for the bookings). The teppanyaki dinner the night before seemed to delight them; the restaurant, operated by an agricultural cooperative, offered reasonable prices and comes highly recommended. In Asakusa, after showing them the location of the next day's tea ceremony experience, we moved on to Meiji Shrine. At Shimbashi Station, I guided them to the Asakusa Line platform for the following day, then took them to their accommodation, where we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa Line Higashi-ginza～Asakusa Line Asakusa220JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa Line Asakusa～JR Yoyogi356JPY
    Section 3TrainJR Harajuku～JR Shibuya146JPY
    Section 4SubwayGinza Line Shibuya～Ginza Line Shimbashi178JPY
    Total900JPY

    Tour Report by Hideki

    Hello! My name is Hideki Maruyama. I was born in Osaka and raised in the Greater Tokyo area. I obtained my National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate in February 2016.
    I spent 23 years working at a leading Japanese automotive company, including 7 years posted overseas. I then worked for a German premium automotive manufacturer for 13 years, followed by 6 years as an advisor to a British energy company. Through these roles at global corporations, I developed and refined key skills such as:
    1. Cross-cultural communication
    2. A deep understanding of business elites and affluent customers
    3. The ability to deliver impactful and impressive presentations in English
    In addition to my regular duties, I often served as an interpreter for top executives during meetings with foreign government officials. I also had opportunities to introduce aspects of Japan—such as our national character and consumer preferences—to leadership teams in both the German and British companies.
    As a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding guests from a wide range of countries especially after the pandemic, including the US, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Norway, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

    Request Booking

    Jun 14, 2026
    tiffany_w
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Phenomenal experiance
    Hideki san was an amazing guide. He was incredibly knowledgable…

    Jun 13, 2026
    Joshua_A
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The Best Guide I Had in Japan
    Hideki was, without question, my…

    May 2, 2026
    Bruce G
    Our guide (Hideki san) was a master. It was a rainy day and he suggested a new plan in anticipation…

    Apr 30, 2026
    johnbD9596UO
    Lovely Private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I had a great…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①8:30 Hotel
    • ②9:15〜10:10 Arashiyama Togetsukyo Bridge & Bamboo Grove
    • ③10:40〜11:20 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • ④11:50〜12:30 Ginkaku-ji Temple
    • ⑤12:30〜13:20 Lunch (Ginkaku-ji approach)
    • ⑥13:50〜14:20 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • ⑦14:55 Hotel

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan, including some who resided in Japan and others who came from North America. One of the guests was studying Japanese and eagerly asked about Japanese customs and vocabulary at each stop and while in the car. Except for Kiyomizu-dera, which the group planned to visit on their own separately, we were able to cover all of the sightseeing spots they had originally requested, and they were very pleased. Because we took time for lunch, we returned to the Hotel about 25 minutes later than scheduled, but the driver was very cooperative and accommodated this without any additional charge, which was a great help. This private full-day tour was provided by [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures.

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

    Tour Report by SAM

    Hello! I am Osamu Kitagawa , National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter(English). Please call me SAM.
    I love Japanese culture, history, and visiting historical places, scenic spots, and fashionable spots as well. I can guide you all over Japan as I have ever visited all prefectures in Japan. I have a global experience in international banking business including residing in Hong Kong and Jakarta. So I’m able to have daily conversations in Indonesian language, too. I’m looking forward to seeing you soon!

    Certification
    Certified Travel Services Manager
    Authorized Tour Conductor
    Kyoto Expert Certification

    Request Booking

    Jul 23, 2026
    svendulrikr
    Tripadvisor review: Nara Day Trip from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide
    Best of Nara
    Amazing trip to Nara with the most…

    Jul 10, 2026
    valerianos862
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Private tour of Tokyo.
    Our guide Sam is very…

    Jun 20, 2026
    Sarah B
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learned how to ride the trains and we went to…

    Apr 14, 2026
    MDMallory
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama and Kamakura 6hr Private Trip Government-Licensed Guide
    The Natural Beauty of Kamakura
    Our guide, Sam, was very knowledgeable…

  • Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle & Kuromon Market

    Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle & Kuromon Market

    Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet @ Hotel Osaka
    • 10:45 @ Osaka Castle
    • 13:00 @ Shitennoji Temple
    • 14:00 @ Kuromon Market
    • 16:00 Disband @ Kuromon Market

    What Is a Private One-Day Osaka Tour Like for Guests Preferring a Slow Pace? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Osaka. Since walking and stairs were difficult for part of the group, the tour proceeded at a slow pace with rest breaks. At Osaka Castle, admission tickets had been purchased in advance, but the crowds were the largest in the past one to two months, and the interior was extremely congested with restricted movement. Normally guests go all the way up to the main keep, but by request we stopped at the third floor. At the adjacent "Miraiza," the guests purchased a large quantity of chopsticks as souvenirs. After visiting Shitennoji Temple, the guests requested to skip the next planned spot, "Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine," and we headed directly to Kuromon Market. On the way, we took a break at a local beer hall. At Kuromon Market, the guests enjoyed many samples and tastings (roasted chestnuts, dried fruit, pickles, tempura, oden, black soybean tea, and more) and also purchased souvenirs. Afterward, since the guests planned to return to the Hotel, I called a taxi and explained the location, and we parted ways. The guests mentioned that tomorrow they would take a Himeji tour to see Himeji Castle, and I felt certain it would be quite demanding for part of the group. I also introduced the Himeji specialties "Gozasoro" and "eki soba," and the guests said they would very much like to try them. The guests seemed to have great interest in and curiosity about Japan and asked many questions. I could also sense that they had a very favorable impression of Japan.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOsaka～Morinomiya170JPY
    Section 2SubwayMorinomiya～Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka240JPY
    Section 3SubwayTennoji～Namba240JPY
    Total650JPY

    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

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    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
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  • Shizuoka: Sunpu Castle Park and Momijiyama Garden

    Shizuoka: Sunpu Castle Park and Momijiyama Garden

    Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour, Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00~10:30: Gathering at Shimizu Port. Due to the crowds, we couldn't find each other, so the gathering was delayed by 30 minutes.
    • 10:30~11:20: (Travel) Shimizu Port ~ Sunpu Castle Park
    • 11:20~12:10: Strolling through Sunpu Castle Park and Momijiyama Garden
    • 12:10~13:20: (Travel) Sunpu Castle Park ~ Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha
    • 13:20~14:10: Visiting Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha, taking a short break in the precincts
    • 14:10~15:30: (Travel) Sengen Taisha ~ Nihondaira Yume Terrace
    • 15:30~15:40: Enjoying the view of Mt. Fuji and Suruga Bay from Nihondaira Yume Terrace.
    • 15:40~16:00: (Travel) Nihondaira Yume Terrace ~ Shimizu Port
    • 16:00: Dispersing at Shimizu Port

    What Is a Private Sightseeing Tour in Shizuoka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. One of the guests enjoyed conversation, and we were able to talk about a wide range of topics including Japanese history, politics, religion, healthcare, social insurance, taxes, and housing. This guest kindly described me as "informative." One of the guests moved using a wheelchair, but neither the Momijiyama Garden nor Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine was barrier-free, so getting around within the grounds and the shrine precincts was difficult. The highlight of sightseeing in the Shizuoka area is, without question, Mount Fuji, but it rarely reveals its full, beautiful form. I would like to prepare other options for days when Mount Fuji is not visible.

    Click here for more details: Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour, Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Mike

    I have worked in the automotive industry for 44 years including 30 years with sales responsibility for the global car manufacturers. And I have lived in the U.S. for 20 years as permanent resident. I am quite familiar with communication in English with foreigners. I am confident not only to satisfy you but also to exceed your expectation with deep knowledge of Japan, especially for its culture based on the long history. There are many sightseers musts in Japan and I look forward to guiding you for beautiful sights, historic relics, and modern day-to-day life of the people here.

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    Sep 28, 2024
    Peta_G
    Efficient and Comfortable way to Tour the Shizuoka Area
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  • Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

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

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:20 Meet up　@Hiroshima Station
    • 2. 11:20 ＠Miyajima　
    • 3. 10:45 ＠Itsukushima Shrine, Daishoin Temple
    • 4. 13:00 Lunch@Mato-chan
    • 5. 13:45 ＠Omotesando
    • 6. 15:15 @Peace Park　Museum
    • 7. 17:20 Disband@Hiroshima Station

    What Is a Private Miyajima and Hiroshima Peace Park Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I met the guests early to match their arrival schedule and assisted with arranging tickets for their return bullet train and their trip to Kansai Airport. The area was very crowded, and the guests did not seem to enjoy crowds, so I chose a less busy route and we walked leisurely along the coast to the torii gate. For lunch I had reserved an okonomiyaki place set a little back from the main area, so there was no difficulty, though everywhere was extremely crowded. When I brought out some origami on the boat during the crossing, the guests happily gave it a try. At the Peace Park, the guests listened carefully, and after the museum they became interested in the sentiments of Japanese people in the postwar period and asked questions about it. After this, they mentioned they would be sightseeing around Kansai using a hotel near Kansai Airport as their base. They were a calm and gentle group.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2OtherMiyajima～Peace Park1,100JPY
    Section 3BusIn front of Peace Memorial Museum～Hiroshima Station220JPY
    Total1,740JPY

    Tour Report by Kahori

    Hi, I’m Kahori, a nationally licensed tour guide, and delighted to show people around this area. For the past almost 10 years, I have mainly guided foreign medical professionals around Hiroshima City and Miyajima, gaining a deep understanding of the effects of radiation and the support for A-bomb survivors.
    Hiroshima is a city of rivers and the sea. Along the rivers Cherry trees line, and the calm Seto Inland Sea, dotted with islands, creates a stunning landscape. Also, the sea has many islands called “art islands” which have fantastic arts relating to the art festival “Setouchi Triennale”. In addition to our two World Heritage Sites, this area is rich in attractive resources. I hope many of you will come and experience this fascinating land. Personally, I am very passionate about modern art and enjoy sports like stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) on our rivers.
    I look forward to meeting you, interacting with you, and also, learning from you!

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    Oct 6, 2025
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    We visited the atomic bomb museum, Hiroshima castle, a beautiful garden, and shrines and Torrey Gate.
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    Sep 23, 2025
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