Category: Uncategorized

  • Osaka Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Osaka Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Osaka Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel meetup　9:45 Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine　11:15 Shinsekai・Tsutenkaku　11:45 Shitennoji Temple　12:50 Namba・Dotonbori　Lunch (Okonomiyaki)　14:20 Kuromon Market　　15:20 Umeda Sky Building 16:45 Osaka Castle (viewing from outside only)　17:15 Return to hotel, tour ends

    What Is a Private Osaka Day Tour Like With Limited Walking? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests came to Japan from North America. Since one of the guests had reduced walking speed, we had discussed the tour content in advance. I had recommended using taxis, but the deadline for arranging this before the tour had already passed, so we carried out the tour using a combination of street taxis and public transportation. As a result, things took too long along the way, and we did not make it to Osaka Castle, the final planned destination, before its entry time closed. Since Osaka Castle is very close to the hotel, it would have been better to visit it first. In addition, the plan for traveling from Kuromon Market to Umeda had originally been to use the subway, but because I was concerned that a member of the group was tired, we took a taxi from Kuromon Market to the Umeda Sky Building. This taxi ride took much longer than expected, which was the main cause of the delay. The guests kindly said, "Osaka Castle is close to the hotel, so we can just walk there another day, no problem," but the itinerary itself had been unrealistic. I had packed in too many destinations. Kuromon Market could have been skipped. If we had not gone to Kuromon, we could have taken the subway to Umeda and arrived at the Sky Building a little earlier. I also reflected that destinations with limited entry times should not have been scheduled last. The photo was taken at Sumiyoshi Taisha, but it came out blurry due to too much sunlight. I should have retaken this photo somewhere else, but there was no time to spare due to the schedule. It became a tour with many lessons and areas for reflection.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherHotel (Double Tree Hilton Osaka Castle)～JR Kyobashi0JPY
    Section 2TrainKyobashi～Shin-Imamiya190JPY
    Section 3TrainShin-Imamiya～Sumiyoshi Taisha240JPY
    Section 4TrainSumiyoshi Taisha～Shin-Imamiya240JPY
    Section 5OtherShin-Imamiya～Shinsekai0JPY
    Section 6OtherShinsekai～Shitennoji Temple0JPY
    Section 7OtherShitennoji Temple～Tennoji Station0JPY
    Section 8SubwayTennoji～Namba240JPY
    Section 9OtherKuromon Market～Umeda Sky Building0JPY
    Section 10TrainOsaka～Kyobashi170JPY
    Section 11OtherKyobashi～Osaka Castle Kyobashiguchi0JPY
    Total1,080JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

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    Jul 24, 2026
    Trail65429092687
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Tour
    Kazua Sumi is a very accomplished guide.He has deep…

    Jul 23, 2026
    489caelinp
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Guided Tour
    My friend and I had a great experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    margaretsM7923ON
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Great way to see Kyoto
    Wonderful tour and exceptional guide.

    Jul 9, 2026
    Sandra_B
    Kazuo was great and…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazuo was great and provided…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle and stay there & Dotonbori

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle and stay there & Dotonbori

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Pick up at Hotel Namba Osaka Suites
    • 8:30-10:50 Move to Osaka Castle and stay there.
    • 10:50-11:20 Move to Shitennoji Temple
    • 11:20-11:40 Stay at Shitennoji Temple
    • 11:40-12:00 Move to Kuromon Market
    • 12:00-13:00 Kuromon Market (lunch)
    • 13:00-13:40 Dotonbori
    • 13:40-14:00 Move to Hotel Namba Osaka Suites
    • Around 14:00 End of the tour

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Shitennoji, and Dotonbori Although the booking listed four people, the tour was joined by three members of the group, as one of the guests did not travel to Japan. We were able to start on time and went to Osaka Castle first, but it gradually became very crowded with school excursion students and international tourists. Since they had bought online tickets, we were able to enter without waiting in line, but one member of the group had trouble with their knees and found going up and down stairs difficult, so they waited on the first floor watching a movie at Osaka Castle. The elevator was said to be out of service due to repairs, but a lift for people with disabilities was operating, so I asked a staff member, who told me it was only for people in wheelchairs and similar situations. Since the guest said it was fine, I did not argue further with the staff member, but I was frustrated to think that this was the treatment despite charging an admission fee. Later I learned that another member of the group also had similar knee trouble and found going down stairs difficult. On the subway, too, we used escalators and lifts as much as possible. At Shitennoji, we only viewed the temple grounds from outside, but we took photos with the five-story pagoda in the background. When I explained that Binzuru-san is believed to heal the parts of the body that are unwell, they rubbed their knees and made wishes. They enjoyed taking photos, and were also happy when I took photos of the group, taking many one after another. At Kuromon Market, we saw large crabs, oysters, and wagyu beef, and then went into a reasonably priced Vietnamese restaurant. Here too there was a group ahead of us, so we had to wait. After I guided them around Dotonbori, they asked me to see them off to the Hotel, and although we had gone past the scheduled time, since it was close to Namba, I took them there. I was a little worried they might be tired, but rather than returning to their room at the Hotel, they continued sightseeing, strolling around since it was near Shinsekai.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainEbisucho～Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 2TrainTanimachi 4-chome～Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 3TrainShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka～Nippombashi190JPY
    Section 4TrainNamba～Ebisucho190JPY
    Total810JPY

    Tour Report by Yuki

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

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    Jun 23, 2026
    Shelley_E
    Viator review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    There is much to do in…
    There is much to…

    May 28, 2026
    Duncan_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Great Tour of Kyoto
    The tour was both very informative and…

    May 28, 2026
    ignaciosilenzi
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Koyasan with Miyuki
    Miyuki was…

    May 23, 2026
    189mirjamf
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Grandioser Einblick in eine fremde Kultur
    Sehr nette und…

  • 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) 9:30 meet up @ Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku (2-3-1 Yoyogi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 10:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 3) 11:30 Tsukiji Market & light meal (Kibun → fruit direct sales shop → Tamagodokoro Marutake → wagyu skewer stand)
    • 4) 13:00 at-home cafe AKIBA Cultures ZONE branch (5th floor, 1-7-6 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo)
    • 5) 14:20 Asakusa <Nakamise-dori · Senso-ji>
    • 6) 14:50 Sumida River Walk → Tokyo Mizumachi → Genmori Bridge → Skytree Town
    • 7) 15:20 disband @ Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line Oshiage Station

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Tsukiji, Akihabara, and Asakusa Body: The guests were a group visiting from Europe. In their advance communication they had shared detailed requests, particularly wanting to learn how to use the subway and trains, and to experience a maid café in Akihabara. By the time we met, the guests had already downloaded Suica and PASMO themselves. To let them experience not only the subway but also JR lines, we took the Yamanote Line to Meiji Shrine. A light rain was falling, but the area in front of the outer worship hall was bustling. As it was their first day in Tokyo, they browsed carefully at the souvenir shops. The guests were strong walkers, so we confirmed routes such as walking on foot from Harajuku to Shibuya. During our travels they paid close attention to how to read and understand the signs inside the train cars and stations. At Tsukiji, while the guests were enjoying Kibun fish cakes, we happened to run into the entire filming crew of [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) staff. The guests kindly cooperated and were delighted, joking that they "might become famous" (as the guide, I was also happy to meet everyone!). They also enjoyed fresh juice, tamagoyaki, and wagyu skewers. Once they were full, we headed to a maid café in Akihabara. Although it was a weekday, several people were already waiting at the entrance. Our seats were reserved, so we arrived ten minutes early, asked the café to assign an English-speaking staff member, and the guide waited outside. It was a dessert course, but there was also a photo session with the maids, so the guests enjoyed about 40 minutes there. We then made our way to Asakusa, guiding them from Kaminarimon to Nakamise-dori (where they browsed again) and on to the main hall. To capture a lovely photo of the Skytree, we walked and took pictures along the route from the Niten-mon Gate to the Sumida River Walk, Tokyo Solamachi, Minamotomori Bridge, and finally the Skytree Town. Regarding their upcoming plans, I shared as many places, food experiences, and directions back to the Hotel as I could think of, both verbally and by email, and we parted ways at the subway ticket gate. Thanks to superb planning drawing on advice from friends experienced in visiting Japan, the guests had a wonderfully full schedule. This evening they planned to visit the observation deck of the Metropolitan Government Building, and over the coming days they would explore the Shinjuku Golden Gai bar-hopping tour, Shibuya Sky, teamLab Borderless, Roppongi Hills, the National Art Center, and Ginza. They had also fully reserved tours for Kanazawa, Matsumoto, Takayama, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Osaka. They eagerly learned simple Japanese greetings, and I am sure they will have a wonderful trip.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainJR Yamanote Line Shinjuku Station～JR Yamanote Line Harajuku Station150JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station～Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line Tsukiji Station600JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Tsukiji Station～Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line Akihabara Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Suehirocho Station～Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station0JPY
    Total750JPY

    Tour Report by Tachi

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel pick up 9:30
    • To Arashiyama 9:30-10:10 (By subway and JR)
    • At Arashiyama(Bamboo forest,Monkey park) 10:10-11:30
    • To Kinkakuji 11:30-12:10 (by bus twice)
    • At Kinkakuji 12:10-12:50
    • Return to the hotel station 12:50-13:40(by bus and subway)

    Title: Can You Do a Private Kyoto Day Tour Covering Arashiyama and Kinkaku-ji? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. The group moved at a brisk pace and were all very good walkers, so we were able to cover Arashiyama and also make our way to Kinkaku-ji. Since they planned to visit Fushimi Inari the following day, I explained how to get there. One of the guests mentioned having stayed in Japan for a few weeks during a past Olympic event, as a member of the support staff rather than as an athlete. I have attached a photo of the monkey park, and since I was also asked to be in a photo together, I have included that one as well.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwaySanjo Keihan～Nijo220JPY
    Section 2TrainNijo～Saga-Arashiyama200JPY
    Section 3BusArashiyama Park～Nishioji Shijo230JPY
    Section 4BusNishioji Shijo～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 5BusKinkakuji-michi～Kitaoji230JPY
    Section 6SubwayKitaoji～Sanjo Keihan260JPY
    Total1,370JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

    Hi, every one. How have you been? I am JGA tour guide Kazu. It is my great pleasure that I can introduce myself here. I am already more than 70 years old, but I believe I am still young both mentally and physically. I like walking with my customers very much. I am from Tokyo, but now

    I live in Kyoto traditional city and an old capital of Japan. I had worked at electric manufacturing company for more than 40 years. While I was working at that company, fortunately I had a lot of chances to visit many foreign countries.

    I lived in Singapore, Malaysia, Poland and Mexico. Also I visited America, Britain, and other countries. Basically I used English to proceed my job there, however I always tried to speak local languages as much as possible. Through staying other countries, I found that there were great differences of the culture or the way of thinking between those countries and Japan. I though I had a valuable experience. After I retired from the company 5 years ago, I began to work as a tour guide although I got the National English tour guide license 7 years ago. Besides English I speak Spanish but I don’t have Spanish tour guide license yet. I belong to the comany JGA and worked around 10 days a month. So far I accompanied with mu customers more than 100 groups. All of my tour was good and lucky as I was always favored with gentle and kind customers.

    My hobby is playing the guitar, dancing and learning foreign languages. I sometimes join the concert by playing the guitar, and it is fun for me. Though I like dancing, I can not dance well. I only enjoy dancing here in Japan.

    About the tour in Japan, I usually take my tourists to the famous spots in Kyoto like Kinkakuji, Kiyomizu dera, Fushimi inari, Gion area,Nishiki market and Arashiyama area. In Arashiyama area we often visit Bamboo forest,Nonomiya shrine,Togetsukyou bridge and Kimono forest. I will cope with my customers demands as much as possible so that I try to visit any places up to your requests.

    I welcome a lot for your coming to Japan. and if possible I would like to help you to visit various kind of spots in Japan especially in Kyoto. JGA is very flexible company so that I have a confidence that you will be satisfied with our attitude and hospitality. I am glad that many of my customers told that it was so nice to travel around Japan. We will and I will expect you come down to Japan any time and we are ready to help your memorable trip in Japan. I can not wait!

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    Sep 26, 2025
    kaylah199
    Amazing tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kazu was extraordinary! He planned a wonderful day for…

    Jul 30, 2024
    Venture826497
    Great time in Kyoto!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My daughter and I had an amazing time…

    Jul 8, 2024
    233vickies
    6 hour Kyoto tour with Kazu
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Government-Licensed Guide and Vehicle (Max 7 persons)
    We had…

    Jun 21, 2024
    Hoc_N
    A fascinating experience in Kyoto we won’t forget
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The most memorable parts…

  • 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. 09:50 Meet up@Hotel
    • 2. 09:55 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 10:30 Stay@East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 4. 11:40 Travel: Subway
    • 5. 12:10 Stay@Asakusa
    • 6. 13:10 Lunch@Aoi Marushin
    • 7. 14:05 Travel: Subway
    • 8. 14:20 Stay@Akihabara, Kanda Shrine
    • 9. 15:10 Travel: Subway
    • 10. 15:35 Disband@In front of the National Museum of Western Art

    What Is a Private Full-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Since the guests' travel agency did not provide any information about their accommodation, I asked them directly by email. I had guided a visitor from Europe just last week as well, but this time the person's English had a somewhat stronger accent, and they repeatedly asked questions while occasionally adding jokes, so I struggled a little with the conversation. As the guests had no particular spots they wanted to visit, I had planned to guide them through the East Gardens, Asakusa, and Meiji Shrine in that order. During a conversation over lunch in Asakusa, I learned that they were interested in the art museums and museums in Ueno, and they asked whether they would still make it in time to enter after the tour ended. However, going all the way to Meiji Shrine would have left little time to spare, so I changed the plan and decided to guide them to Akihabara and Kanda Shrine instead of Meiji Shrine. It seemed that one of the guests' relatives enjoys making crafts using electronic parts, and it was memorable that in Akihabara the response was better from one of the guests than from the other. When we arrived at the National Museum of Western Art in Ueno it was still around 15:30, but there was already a long line at the ticket counter, so I guided them to the end of the line and ended the tour there.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassShinjuku Station～Otemachi Station600JPY
    Section 2Free PassOtemachi Station～Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassAsakusa Station～Suehirocho Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassShin-Ochanomizu Station～Yushima Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassUeno-hirokoji Station～Ueno Station0JPY
    Total600JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

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

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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…

  • 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

    • 1.10:00Hotel
    • 2.10:30 Imperial Garden
    • 3.11:45 Asakusa & Lunch
    • 4.13:45 Nezu Shrine by Taxi
    • 5.15:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 6.16:30 ShiroganeDai Station FInish

    Title: What Is a Relaxed Private Walking Tour of Central Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors who preferred a relaxed pace. The originally proposed course was significantly shortened, and taxis were used for part of the day with their agreement. Since walking uphill was tiring for the group, I made a point of using escalators and elevators whenever possible. We visited the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, Sensoji Temple, Nezu Shrine, and Meiji Shrine. I thought the final stop at Meiji Shrine might be especially demanding, so I confirmed carefully, but the reply was that they still wanted to go. By walking very slowly and taking occasional breaks, we managed to complete it. I was also concerned about the return to the accommodation, so I saw the group off at Shirokanedai Station, saying, "From here, just go straight and you'll reach your hotel," and we parted ways. The group seemed satisfied with the course, the meals, and the conversation, and thanked me many times. As a bonus, there happened to be a parade for newly appointed ambassadors that day, and we luckily came across the procession heading to receive the new ambassadors at the Imperial Palace, which they were delighted about, saying how lucky they were.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShirokane-takanawa～Otemachi220JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi～Asakusa178JPY
    Section 3SubwayNezu～Meiji Shrine209JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku～Meguro167JPY
    Section 5SubwayMeguro～Shirokanedai178JPY
    Total952JPY

    Tour Report by Kazu

    My name is KAZU HAKATA. 73years old (as of end AUG2025). I started as a guide from March 2023. Graduated from KYOTO Univ Intl Economics and MBA from INSEAD in France. (14 years in overseas, LUX, Paris, Hong Kong) . I used to work in Banking, Telecommunication, Air Line, Financial Trading as CFO. I did more than 150 days of Guide since 2023,Tokyo( most of the Guides), Nikko, Hakone, Kamakura, and other area. Born in Hyogo Pref. I lived 26 years in Kansai and know quite well Kyoto, Nara, Osaka ,Kobe, Wakayama ( Koya san + Kumano Kodo).
    I know not only touristic sites, but I can show you hidden charming points of JAPAN. If you can enjoy your tour in JAPAN, it is also my pleasure. I will do as much as I can to assist you to understand Japanese history, culture, nature, and a real life in JAPAN.
    [FRANCAIS]
    J’ai commencee a Guide apres avoir obtenu Diplome de Francaise en fevrier 2023. Jusqu’a maintenant j’ai effectue plus de 150 guides dont 1/4 francais. Principalement a Tokyo , mais de temps en temps aux Nikko, Kamakura, Kawaguchiko, Hakone, Takayama, Shirakawago, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Okayama, Naoshima.
    A Tokyo, les sites frequentes sont Tsukiji, Hama Rikyu, Asakusa, Jardin Imperial, Rikugi-En , Yanaka, Ueno, Ameyoko, Musee Nationale, Akihabara, Jardin de Korakuen , Harajuku, Sanctuaire de Meiji, ruelle de Tekeshita , Aoyama, Shibuya, Temple de Gotokuji, etc.
    Comme je suis ne a Hyogo ( ouest du Japon) et etudie a Kyoto, Je connais bien Kyoto,Nara,Osaka, Mont Koya, Hieizan. En plus j’ai travaille a Osaka 2017-2019.pendant cette periode j’ai souvent visitee des sites touristiques a Kyoto, Nara, Osaka. J’ai fait les randonnes a Kumono Kodo et 33 temples en Kansai.

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    Apr 4, 2026
    Rebecca_M
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kazu Rocks!!
    Kazu was a gem! From our booking well in advance…

    Oct 19, 2025
    geoffreysE7617EB
    6-hour Tokyo Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My guide, Kazuyasu Hakata, modified some of the tour,…

    Oct 9, 2025
    zglus
    6 Hr walking Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kazuyas brought us all around Tokyo and was…

    Sep 26, 2025
    JulieD4351
    We saw the fish market, many shrines, the busy walkway, and much more!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Egret Himeji & Himeji Castle

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Egret Himeji & Himeji Castle

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet @ JR Himeji Station
    • 10:15 @ Egret Himeji
    • 10:45 @ Himeji Castle
    • 12:45 @ Mount Shosha, Engyoji Temple
    • 16:00 Dismissal @ Food court inside JR Himeji Station

    What Is a Private Himeji Castle Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, and everything went smoothly throughout the tour. They had a strong interest in Japan and asked many questions, and they also listened attentively to the guide's explanations. The weather was pleasant, which helped everything proceed smoothly. The guests mentioned that they would like their family to visit Japan sometime after next spring. I was also able to hear some interesting stories, which made the tour very enjoyable for me as a guide. Since they wanted to try something local for lunch, I guided them to a food court inside Himeji Station, where we parted ways. Note: Although still undecided at this stage, a significant increase in the admission fee for Himeji Castle is being considered. There is a proposal to raise the current 1,000 yen to 2,000-3,000 yen, more than double, and to set a foreign visitor fee of 4,000 yen, four times the current amount. The timing is said to be around spring 2026.

    Click here for more details: Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherMount Shosha Ropeway Boarding Area～Mount Shosha Summit Ropeway Station1,200JPY
    Total1,200JPY

    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
    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…

  • 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 @ Hotel
    • 2. 7:45 @ Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 3. 10:20 @ Kinkaku-ji
    • 4. 11:15 Lunch @ Gontaro
    • 5. 13:00 @ Obai-in
    • 6. 13:45 @ Teramachi Shopping Street
    • 7. 15:30 Disband @ Shin-Osaka

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour from Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan. Everyone was energetic, but since their walking pace and interests varied, I was concerned about whether we could proceed as planned. When trying to board a crowded train bound for Kyoto from Inari Station, the train was so full that one of the guests slipped and fell onto the platform while trying to force their way on, and another guest, trying to help, got a foot caught between the train and the platform. Fortunately, no one was injured, but we ended up taking a taxi. I negotiated with the station staff and was able to get a refund for the train fare we had paid. After that, I continued to check on the guests, and I was relieved that they remained in good spirits and were able to continue the tour. I had made a lunch reservation at a place chosen according to the guests' preferences, so they were very pleased and enjoyed the meal so much that they finished it right away. Since we would definitely not be able to get seats on a local line leaving Shin-Osaka at 7:00 a.m. for Kyoto, we used the Shinkansen. Even the non-reserved cars were crowded, but we managed to secure seats, and we were also able to sit down comfortably on the way back. Although they seemed tired, they thanked me, saying, "We are so glad we asked for a guide. We could never have experienced this much on our own."

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShin-Osaka～Inari770JPY
    Section 2BusKinkakuji-michi～Daitokuji-mae230JPY
    Section 3SubwayShijo～Kyoto220JPY
    Section 4TrainKyoto～Shin-Osaka580JPY
    Total1,800JPY

    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
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    We had a great tour with…

    Jul 11, 2026
    Dianna-fam
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    My teenage boys and I…

    Jul 1, 2026
    Christian_L
    Viator review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
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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. 08:50 Meeting @ Ujina 5th Foreign Trade Berth
    • 2. 09:50 @ Miyajima
    • 3. 10:45 @ Shishiiwa Observatory
    • 4. 11:30 @ Daisho-in Temple @ Senjokaku
    • 5. 13:00 Lunch @ Mame Tanuki
    • 6. 14:00 @ Itsukushima Shrine
    • 7. 14:50 @ Tenshinkaku
    • 8. 16:25 Dismissal @ Ujina Port

    What Is a Private Miyajima and Mount Misen Tour Like from a Cruise Ship? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests had arrived by cruise ship and, having visited Peace Park the previous day, wished to spend a relaxed day on Miyajima during this tour. Their requests included Itsukushima Shrine and the main approach street, as well as the ropeway, so I proposed moving from the cruise ship to Ujina Port and making a round trip by high-speed boat to secure enough time. After arriving on Miyajima, we first took the ropeway to visit Mount Misen, which the guests enjoyed very much. The guests took many photos and enjoyed some drinks throughout the day. Everyone was a strong walker and the day proceeded smoothly, so at the end we used the spare time to relax at Tenshinkaku while enjoying the view.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherUjina Port～Miyajima Port2,100JPY
    Total2,100JPY

    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
    DJ C
    We visited the atomic bomb museum, Hiroshima castle, a beautiful garden, and shrines and Torrey Gate.
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima /…

    Sep 23, 2025
    lorrainel669
    Awesome Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    The tour was fantastic. It covered everything…

    Jul 26, 2025
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    Tracy_P
    Outstanding Tour of Hiroshima with Kahori…
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our tour of…

    Jun 28, 2025
    Fernando A
    We knew the best of Hiroshima in 8 hrs
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed…

  • Kyoto: Fushimi Inari & Shusuitei

    Kyoto: Fushimi Inari & Shusuitei

    Kyoto Early Morning Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:30 Hotel → Keihan Railway
    • 8:00 Fushimi Inari → Keihan Railway・Tozai Line
    • 9:30 Nijo Castle → Taxi
    • 10:45 Shusuitei
    • 11:30 End

    What Is an Early Morning Private Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari and Nijo Castle The guests were visitors from North America. They requested an early morning tour because they wanted to avoid the crowds. Both Fushimi Inari and Nijo Castle became busy after our visits, so they said they were glad we had gone early. They asked many interesting questions, such as whether Japan allows female emperors and why there are foxes at Fushimi Inari. As it approached noon, it became quite hot, and I sensed that they were getting a little tired. I believe what impressed them most was the magnificence of the wall paintings and the carved transoms at Nijo Castle. Since they wanted to visit Arashiyama during their stay, I offered advice on places to visit and other tips.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Early Morning Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKeihan Shichijo～Keihan Fushimi Inari170JPY
    Section 2TrainKeihan Fushimi Inari～Tozai Line Nijojo-mae440JPY
    Total610JPY

    Tour Report by Makiko

    Hi, I’m Makiko originally from Kobe.
    I have graduated from high school and University in the U.S., and working as an English Tour Guide in Japan since in my 20s.
    I want my guests to experience the beauty of Japan in Kansai region.
    Also, I’m a Sado, tea ceremony instructor , so ask me anything about tea ceremony, and other traditional Japanese culture.
    Especially, I would like to take you where you can find peace in your mind through my tour, my recommended places in Kyoto are Fushimi Inari and Nanzenji Temple.
    I’m very much looking forward to meeting you!

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    Mar 21, 2025
    J
    Jet815326
    Maximized our short visit to Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We only had a few…

    Dec 29, 2024
    Y8716YMkathyb
    Highly recommend this tour!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Makiko was a fantastic guide and really taught…

    Nov 14, 2024
    TrailBlazer145790
    Kyoto Introduction
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Makiko was very knowledgeable about Kyoto’s shrines and temples, guiding…

    Oct 18, 2024
    Z2198GLjohannah
    Wonderful experience
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Both Makiko (our guide) and our driver were incredibly kind,…