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. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

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.

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

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