Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto: Sanjusangendo & Kinkakuji Temple

    Kyoto: Sanjusangendo & Kinkakuji Temple

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Gather
    • 8:45 Sanjusangendo
    • 10:10 Nijo Castle
    • 12:00 Lunch at Gontaro Kinkakuji Store
    • 13:10 Kinkakuji Temple
    • 14:30 Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Disband

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Kyoto's Sanjusangendo, Nijo Castle, and Kinkakuji Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They were very knowledgeable about Japan, and at Sanjusangendo they looked around with great interest and took their time. Nijo Castle was extremely crowded, perhaps because it overlapped with school excursion groups, but we were fortunate to find a gap and were able to view it at a relaxed pace. I believe they also enjoyed the Japanese garden. For lunch, thanks to having reserved a private tatami room in advance at a restaurant near Kinkakuji, the group was able to dine comfortably. Kinkakuji was also surprisingly crowded. It must have been a tiring day for the group, but although light rain had been forecast, no rain fell, and I believe they enjoyed the tour.

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

    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.

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    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…

  • Miyagi in Half a Day: Senseki Line & Matsushima Sightseeing Boat

    Miyagi in Half a Day: Senseki Line & Matsushima Sightseeing Boat

    Sendai & Matsushima Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:10 Departure @ Hotel
    • 13:29 @ Senseki Line
    • 14:15 @ Kanrantei
    • 14:35 @ Godaido
    • 14:45 @ Fukuurajima
    • 16:00 @ Matsushima Sightseeing Boat
    • 17:12 @ Senseki Line

    What Is a Private Matsushima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests contacted me to say they had missed the scheduled Shinkansen and would be a little late, so we started 10 minutes behind schedule. The original plan was the Matsushima sightseeing boat, Fukuurajima, and SS30, but we ended up spending the whole time in Matsushima. Since they wanted to eat something, we enjoyed matcha and sweets at Kanrantei, and they were delighted with the zunda mochi. From the view at Kanrantei, they showed interest in Fukuura Bridge and Godaido Temple in the foreground. As the guests did not mind walking, we made a stop at Godaido Temple before heading to Fukuurajima. They enjoyed Fukuura Bridge and the calm atmosphere of the island. For the sightseeing boat, we used the Niomaru. Having received permission for PR use, I took some photos on board. I was very happy that the guests were able to fully enjoy Matsushima.

    Click here for more details: Sendai & Matsushima Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSendai～Matsushimakaigan420JPY
    Section 2TrainMatsushimakaigan～Sendai420JPY
    Total840JPY

    Tour Report by Miki

    Hello. I’m Mikiko Shiga, a licensed guide interpreter.
    I live in Iwaki, Fukushima, about 200km northeast from Tokyo.
    I was born in Sendai, the capital of Tohoku or the North East area of Japan.
    I ‘ve belonged to a volunteer guide group, I experienced walking tours in Asakusa, and other places in Tokyo.

    Meanwhile, the area I was born and live in is relatively uncrowded.
    Tohoku is blessed with beautiful nature, delicious food and fresh air.
    It is recommendable for tourists who want to avoid busy places.
    It would be wonderful if I could share the attractions in Tohoku or Ibaraki areas with my guests.

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    Jul 10, 2026
    Jenny_A
    Viator review: Fukushima Hope Tour in 1 Day by Car with Licensed Guide
    Interesting tour to see…
    Interesting tour to see…

    Jun 14, 2026
    Michael_B
    Viator review: Fukushima Hope Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle from Iwaki
    Fukushima & Iwaki – Excellent Tour With Local Guides…

    Mar 23, 2025
    Phillosophizing
    An Unforgettable Journey Through Resilience and Remembrance
    Tripadvisor review: Fukushima Hope Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle from Iwaki
    Our Fukushima…

    Oct 11, 2024
    716zaineb
    A wonderful tour worth doing!
    Tripadvisor review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Miki did a wonderful job…

  • Osaka in One Day: Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine & Osaka Castle

    Osaka in One Day: Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine & Osaka Castle

    Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet @ Swissotel Nankai Osaka
    • 10:15 @ Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
    • 12:00 @ Shinsekai・Tsutenkaku
    • 13:30 @ Shitennoji Temple
    • 14:45 @ Osaka Castle
    • 15:15 Disband @ Osaka Castle Entrance

    What Is a Private Osaka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tennoji, Sumiyoshi Taisha, and Osaka Castle The guests were a group visiting Japan, some of whom were living in Asia and others coming from Europe, joining up together in Japan for the tour. The tour itself proceeded smoothly, but the group showed great interest in each spot and spent quite a lot of time taking photographs. At Tsutenkaku, the posted wait time was 20 minutes, but in reality it took about an hour due to purchasing tickets and waiting for the elevator. At Sumiyoshi Taisha, they managed to find the popular "Go・Dai・Riki" small stones and purchased the small amulet pouches for them. In addition, everyone drew omikuji fortunes, and one of the guests drew "kyo" (bad luck). Everyone else drew "kichi" (good luck). When I told them that things could not get any worse and would only improve from now on, they smiled and were reassured. As a result, the tour ended at the point where I explained Osaka Castle from the outside, and the guests decided to visit the interior of Osaka Castle and the Umeda Sky Building, which had been planned for the end, on their own. I explained the routes, including the way back to the Hotel, handed them a map, and we parted ways. All of the group seemed very fond of Japan. One of the guests mentioned wanting to revisit during the cherry blossom season next March. Information: The admission fee for Shitennoji has become 500 yen this month. (It was previously 300 yen.)

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNamba～Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine240JPY
    Section 2TrainSumiyoshi Taisha Shrine～Shin-Imamiya240JPY
    Section 3SubwayDobutsuen-mae～Tennoji190JPY
    Section 4SubwayShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka～Morinomiya240JPY
    Total910JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto: Kyoto Station & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto: Kyoto Station & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Kyoto Station
    • 11:30　Hotel Higashiyama, drop off luggage
    • 11:50　Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 12:40　Kura Sushi
    • 14:00　Torokko Arashiyama > Bamboo Forest > Tenryu-ji Garden
    • 15:20　Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 16:10　Tour ends in front of the Gion Kanji Museum

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari and the Bamboo Grove The guests were a group visiting from North America. The original plan was to finish at Kiyomizu, but since it seemed we would not make it in time for a 17:00 Gion tour, we cut that part and had them wait for the next tour at a cafe next to the Kanji Museum. The guests had arrived from Tokyo that day, and as walking was not easy for some of them, they agreed to this plan. Some of the guests who found walking difficult waited in the car instead of going to Fushimi Inari, but the rest of the group found the tunnel of torii gates very impressive. Everyone enjoyed the bamboo grove.

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

    Tour Report by Mimmy

    Bye bye smart phone!! Let’s enjoy Japan without bothering to check up your phone all the time with not AI but a local guide like me. Hi, my name is Mimmy. You may think this sounds like a kitten’s name.
    I use this nickname because it sounds cute and easy to remember. However,
    I actually look rounded, a middle aged woman more like a yellow character of M&Mchocolate, which reminds you of my name easily when you see me.
    I was born in Osaka, went to school in Kobe, went to work in Kyoto and married but still live in Osaka. I am a local, native Osakan. My 3 children are all grown up and live separately except one son. Now I live with one son and a husband in suburbs of the Osaka city.
    I like travelling, walking around the town and anything new.
    I got my guide license in 2017 and started guiding after that. I wasn’t able to work during Covid period but start guiding in 2022 again. I guide Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Kobe and have experienced more than100 tours including bus tours.
    I would like to tell you about the itineraries I usually have in each area.
    In Osaka, we usually go to Osaka castle, Shinsekai and Dotonbori Namba area.
    I think most important part you should see is Dotonbori Namba in Osaka.
    This place is vibrant , energetic, full of 3D signs and different from any other place in Japan.
    In Kyoto, we cannot see all famous sightseeing spots in one day.
    It will be better to visit each area respectively. I recommend guests who come to Kyoto first time to visit East area, Kiyomizu Temple>Sannenzaka>Ninenzaka>Ishibeikouji>Yasaka shrine> Gion area. This area has an atmosphere of traditional old Kyoto. The most Kyoto like places which suit Kimono. You can rent Kimono in a lot of places around here.
    The second place I recommend you is West area: Golden temple and Arashiyama area where Bamboo forest , Tenryuji temple, mountains and a river. There are several nice gardens in this area. If you want to enjoy the nature quietly, you
    should come here when it is not crowded (Winter is the most quiet)
    In Nara which used to be a capital even older than Kyoto, we visit Todaiji Temple where a huge Buddha is sitting inside of one of the largest wooden hall and you can play with deer everywhere in Nara. Naramachi: a small town in this area is a local place where small interesting shops are.
    In Kobe, a port city, you can visit Japanese Sake breweries, Herb garden and the top of Mt.Rokko for viewing Kobe city. A small China town is there, too.

    Now I bet you want to leave home to explore somewhere else you do not know.
    Not only going to somewhere else, we can help you to do several experiences: making tea, making Japanese sweet, making Takoyaki(food), wearing Kimono, making food samples, attending a tea ceremony, throwing Shriken like Ninja, Using bow and arrow like Samurai, , , ,
    I am very happy indeed if I can help you find things impressive enough and have once in a life time experience during our tour.
    I am looking forward to sharing a good time with you.

    Request Booking

    Mar 24, 2025
    Jennie_N
    Ask for Mimmy
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A must if visiting the first time. Will save…

    Mar 15, 2025
    Eric B
    Wonderful Osaka castle and tour
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mimmy was a wonderful…

    Mar 12, 2025
    williampP2709MA
    Amazing time in Osaka with Mimmy
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mimmy was an amazing tour guide!…

    Oct 30, 2024
    Niaz_M
    Great choice if you have limited time in Kyoto
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a…

  • 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

    • 0830 Meet at Sora-niwa Terrace
    • 0920 Kifune Shrine
    • 1100 Kurama-dera Temple
    • 1240 Lunch at Kura Sushi
    • 1315 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 1430 Dismiss at Sora-niwa House

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kifune, Kurama, and Kinkaku-ji The guests were a group visiting from North America. The forecast suggested there might be light rain, and we did encounter a brief shower of about five minutes at Kinkaku-ji at the end, but otherwise the weather held up well. Kifune was about four degrees cooler than central Kyoto, so we were able to spend the time comfortably in the cooler air. At Mount Kurama, the cable car was out of service, which made the climb quite challenging, but everyone did their best and managed to reach the main hall at the top, which delighted them. They had originally mentioned wanting to visit Ryoan-ji as well, but due to the poor weather and fatigue, they returned to the Hotel after Kinkaku-ji.

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

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    Request Booking

    Oct 10, 2025
    alijohn48
    Just what we were looking for
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Tomy was…

    Aug 8, 2025
    Katherine_G
    Fantastic day touring Kyoto with private tour guide & driver!
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max…

    Jul 22, 2025
    98patrickn
    early morning tour of Kyoto with guide Tomy
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We did an early…

    Jul 20, 2025
    Mark_S
    Great day in Kyoto
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    We had a great…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel 13:00 – Asakusa 13:30 Sensoji Temple – Kappabashi Kitchen Town 14:30 – Ningyocho 15:45 – Suitengu 16:00 – Monzen-Nakacho Fukagawa Fudo 16:30 Disband at Monzen-Nakacho Station at 17:00

    Title: What's a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo's Shrines and Temples Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The tour took place during unseasonable heat and centered on walking, so one member of the group appeared tired, but the guests fully enjoyed Japanese culture in a short amount of time. In particular, at Suitengu Shrine and Fukagawa Fudo (Shingon sect Buddhism), unlike Asakusa, they were able to view the sites at a relaxed pace and have unhurried conversations. In addition to the classic topic of "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto," we also discussed "how ordinary people make use of temples and shrines," "the meaning behind the expressions of various Buddhist statues," "the existence of the Buddha," and "the difference between esoteric Buddhism and other forms of Buddhism." There were some points beyond my ability to fully explain, but I feel we were able to talk in a calmer setting than we could have in the crowds. At Monzen-nakacho, the guests stayed on to visit an izakaya. I gave instructions on the location setup and how to order before we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShimbashi～Asakusa220JPY
    Section 2TrainTawaramachi～Ningyocho180JPY
    Section 3TrainSuitengumae～Monzen-Nakacho290JPY
    Total690JPY

    Tour Report by Sammy

    Name is Sakai Katsuomi, a national certificated interpreter & tour guide. I usually go by Summy. I would like to assist you in making your visit to Japan a wonderful treasure of life.I not only offer tours to famous tourist spots throught Japan but also provide guidance on experiencing traditional Japanese culture. If you interested in Japanese martial arts such as Karate, Judo, Aikido and Kendo, or if you are visiting Japan to train in these disciplines, I can assist you with making apointments at dojyos, interpretating during practice sessions, filming videos and accompany you on your sightseeing adventures in Japan.
    Of course, I can definitely assist you with regular sightseeing. This includes visiting historical and cultural sites, exploring Japanese pop culture and subculture hotospots,and even arranging anime- related activities and character-themed shopping for children. I can customize the initerary according to yourpreferences and requests.

    Request Booking

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

    Jul 5, 2026
    amanda_h
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Well worth it!
    We were lucky enough to have Sammy as our…

    May 28, 2026
    Meredith L
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Instagram Highlights Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Sammy was a fabulous local guide!
    What a great…

    May 27, 2026
    Mary_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo in a day!
    We enjoyed our tour with Sammy. We had…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 08:30 Meet at Mimaru Kyoto Shinmachi Sanjo
    • 2. 09:00 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 3. 10:30 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (+Nonomiya Shrine +Kameyama Park +Oigawa Riverside +Togetsukyo Bridge)
    • 4. 12:30 Lunch at Akamanma Cafe Restaurant (Arashiyama)
    • 5. 14:30 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 6. 15:10 Disband (Bus stop: Kinkakuji-michi)

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. One member had first visited Tokyo in 2023 partly for work, but this was their first time in Kyoto, while the rest of the group were visiting Japan for the first time. One of the guests had studied Japanese in high school, and a friend who had once lived in Japan for ten years had strongly recommended a trip to Japan, so they decided to make their first visit, timed with a school break and the very favorable exchange rate. Apart from asking about the construction dates of the shrine buildings at Fushimi Inari and of Kinkaku-ji, the guests were mostly enthusiastic about taking photographs. For lunch, since one member preferred a limited menu, they requested a café where sandwiches and pasta were available, so I reserved a café at the northern end of Arashiyama's main street, which they were very happy with. Due to time constraints, after visiting Kinkaku-ji I gave them guidance for Nijo Castle, and we parted with smiles and handshakes at the Kinkakuji-michi bus stop (15:10).

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKarasuma Oike～Kyoto220JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 3TrainInari～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 4TrainSaga-Arashiyama～Enmachi190JPY
    Section 5BusEnmachi～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Total1,030JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    Born, raised and married in Kyoto, I am Masaaki Tanaka started English-speaking licensed guide since 2008, guiding mostly those English-speaking inbound tourists in Kyoto, which is my home base, and in Osaka (where I woked so long time until my retirment) and Nara and in other Kansai areas incl. Kobe, Koyasan, etc. If allowed, I can say I am somewhat experinced in Japanese history (especially in its culture). When young, I lived and worked for some 11 years in the Middle East, which areas, accordingly, I am still quite familiar to . My hobby includes : seeing Noh Play and Kabuki, hearing Musics in general (Beethoven, Beatles, Jazz & Rock’n Rolls as well as Japanese classicals), seeing the paintings/artworks in general, playing the piano (all time at beginner’s level, though), playing the guitar and, when younger, I enjoyed skiing and business golf. Also, I am, since my childhoo, a great fan of Tigers in Japan’s pro-base ball. I love cats (keeping now an old female ‘Chee’ chan) , and certainly my wife Tokuko as well.

    Request Booking

    Jul 30, 2026
    amydJ3030YT
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Private Kyoto tour with a licensed guide and separate driver…

    Mar 20, 2026
    moisessG5827VE
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Masaaki Tanaka was the best tour guide ever!
    Masaaki Tanaka was an…

    Jun 16, 2025
    896nataliex
    Amazing Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Masaaki, was an excellent tour guide and wealth of knowledge…

    Apr 23, 2025
    Simon S
    Enjoyable and informative
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full Day Tour from Osaka with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    The service was friendly…

  • Wakayama in One Day: Kii-Tanabe - Hongu & Information Center

    Wakayama in One Day: Kii-Tanabe – Hongu & Information Center

    Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage in 1 Day Hike with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00　 Kii-Tanabe – Hongu
    • 9:45　 Arrive at Hongu
    • 10:10　Depart Hosshinmon-oji
    • 10:20　Hosshinmon-oji
    • 10:45　Walk Start
    • 11:30　Mizunomi-oji
    • 12:15　Fushiogami　Lunch
    • 12:50　Fushiogami-oji　
    • 13:30　Sangenjaya
    • 13:50　Hongu Taisha
    • 14:20　Oyunohara
    • 15:05　In front of Hongu Taisha
    • 17:17 　Kii-Tanabe
    • 17:30　Information Center
    • Tour End

    Title: What Is a Private Kumano Kodo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Nakahechi Route On the day of the tour, it was drizzling. While waiting at the Kii-Tanabe bus stop, I received a message asking, "Will we still go in the rain?" When I replied, "Yes, we will," the guest arrived about 10 minutes later. 8:05 The bus was full of other international travelers heading to walk the Kumano Kodo. 9:45 Arrived at Hongu and picked up the reserved boxed lunch. 10:10 Boarded the bus bound for Fushiogami. 10:30 Arrived at Hosshinmon-oji. 10:45 Stamped the stamp book, explained the oji shrines, and started the walk. 11:30 Minomizu-oji. I had given the guest a stamp book at Hosshinmon-oji, but it seemed to have been left behind somewhere around Hosshinmon-oji, so we stamped a piece of paper instead. 12:15 Arrived at Fushiogami for lunch. 12:50 Explained Fushiogami-oji and started walking again. 13:20 Scenic viewpoint, took photos. 13:50 Arrived at Hongu Taisha and offered prayers. 14:15 Oyunohara, took photos. Viewed the exhibits at the World Heritage Center. 15:05 Boarded the bus in front of Hongu Taisha. 17:17 Arrived at Kii-Tanabe. 17:30 Received brochures at the information center, guided the guest to a place to eat, and the tour ended. Since the guest had booked a tour without a vehicle, I assumed they enjoyed walking, but they said this was the most they had ever walked. The day before, while traveling to Kii-Tanabe by train, the guest had apparently searched for information about the Nanki region and asked if it would be possible to add Kamikura Shrine. I explained that it was in a different direction and that the infrequent train and bus schedules would make it difficult to finish within the available time, and they understood. After finishing the walk, the guest told me, "That was fun."

    Click here for more details: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage in 1 Day Hike with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Kiyoko

    Hello, my name is Kiyoko. I have been a local English guide since 2016. I have studied the history and folklore at a local guide club and have an experience of guiding guests from various countries. I am good at Takijiri Oji-Takahara Jinja, Hosshinmon Oji-Hongu Taisha and Daimonzaka-Nachi Taisha, Seiganto-ji, Nachi Fall. Besides Kumano, I can guide Koyasan, Okunoin, Kongobu-ji, Danjo Garan, Niutsuhime Jinja and Jison-in. I have been to Koyasan 30-40 times . My aim is sharing a great time with guests while guiding. See you in Kumano or in Koyasan.

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    May 23, 2026
    Cecile_V
    Viator review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip with Government Licensed Guide
    A great and manageable hike with Kiyoko!
    This is…

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    Tripadvisor review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip with Government Licensed Guide
    The best way to experience the Kumano Kudo in…

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    Amazing experience in Kumano kodo
    Kiyoko was amazing. We are…

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    Beautiful Tour with detailed Tour Guide!!
    Tripadvisor review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle
    We had a great…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00　Meet at hotel　9:45 Arrive at Hamarikyu　11:00 Arrive at Shinjuku　11:45 Coffee break　12:15 Arrive at Shibuya, Mega Don Quijote　13:00 Pokémon Center　Disband

    What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time and seemed very curious about everything. They were in good spirits throughout the day. The guests had postponed their trip to Japan until October to avoid the hot summer, so they were a little surprised that this particular day happened to reach nearly 30 degrees, and they were grateful for the air-conditioned trains and cafés. We enjoyed pointing out the differences between Japan and Europe to one another. Since the guests came from a small town in Europe, they also seemed to enjoy the large crowds of Tokyo.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKinshicho～Shiodome317JPY
    Section 2TrainShiodome～Shinjuku220JPY
    Section 3TrainShinjuku～Shibuya167JPY
    Total704JPY

    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.

    Request Booking

    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…
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    Edward_M
    Friendly and Knowledgeable Tour Guide
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
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    Heavenly Hakone with an angelic guide
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  • Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:30 Meet @ Himeji Station Central Ticket Gate
    • 2. 09:35 @ Castle View
    • 3. 10:05 @ Himeji Castle
    • 4. 12:25 @ Koko-en Garden
    • 5. 13:00 @ Egret Himeji Rooftop
    • 6. 13:10 Disband @ Outside Egret Himeji Entrance

    Title: What Is a Private Himeji Castle Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors to Japan for the first time, currently living in Europe though originally from South America. They had arrived in Japan in late September and had already visited Tokyo, Kanazawa, Nara, and Kyoto, with plans to continue on to Hiroshima and Osaka after seeing Himeji. Today we met at Himeji Station and toured Castle View, Himeji Castle, Koko-en Garden, and the rooftop of Egret Himeji, ending the tour just outside the entrance of Egret Himeji. The guests planned to head back to a restaurant serving grilled Kobe beef skewers, which I had introduced on the way to Egret Himeji, to have lunch there. The weather today was cloudy but not hot, and we were able to move smoothly through Himeji Castle, Koko-en Garden, and the rooftop of Egret Himeji. The guests appeared to thoroughly enjoy the tour.

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

    Tour Report by Norio

    Hello, my name is Norio Oki, a Government-Certified Tour Guide in Japan.
    I specialize in guiding visitors through the beautiful and historic regions of Himeji and Kobe.

    My expertise includes Japanese history, traditional culture, castles, and sake. I enjoy sharing not only facts, but also the stories and spirit behind each place.

    In Himeji, I offer guided tours of Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden, Shoshazan Engyoji Temple, and Nadagiku Sake Brewery.
    In Kobe, I guide guests through the Nada Sake Breweries area, Mt. Rokko, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, Harborland, Meriken Park, the Kitano District, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, and the lively Motomachi Shopping Street.

    Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local experiences, I will create a personalized tour tailored to your interests.

    If you’re planning to visit Himeji or Kobe, I would be delighted to be your guide.
    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Request Booking

    Jul 7, 2026
    77guye
    The best way to experience Himeji Castle
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    What a great way to…

    May 30, 2026
    karenpG5549XU
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    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour with Norio, would highly…

    May 28, 2026
    TrailBlazer741528
    Kobe Variety.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our delightful guide, Norio, was knowledgeable and a master at…

    May 23, 2026
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    Himeji castle with Norio
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learnt lots about Himeji castle and it…