This is a private guided tour report by Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.), a network of 1,000+ government-licensed, English-speaking local guides across all 47 prefectures of Japan.

Tour Itinerary

  • 1. 9:30 Meet up @Kyo Small Inn Yutone Yasaka
  • 2. 10:00 @Fushimi Inari Taisha
  • 3. 12:00 Lunch @Tenryu-ji
  • 4. 12:45 @Tenryu-ji Bamboo Grove
  • 5. 14:30 @Kinkaku-ji
  • 6.15:15 @Nishiki Market
  • 7. 16:30 @Gion
  • 8.17:15 Disband @Yutone

Because we had discussed in advance what the guests were hoping to see, what they wanted to buy, and where they wanted to visit, the group was very satisfied throughout the tour. Since the guests preferred to enjoy each place slowly rather than rushing from spot to spot, during lunch I explained about shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine) and how to split and use disposable chopsticks. At Nishiki Market, one of the guests was able to buy a Japanese kitchen knife they had wanted, and another of the guests enjoyed the gashapon machines, which delighted the group. Since we had a little extra time, I took the guests to Gion Shirakawa and Hanamikoji Street for those who enjoy photography, and I also explained the history and atmosphere of the area.

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

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

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

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

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