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
- 8:10 Hyatt Regency Kyoto
- 8:30-9:10 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
- 9:30-11:20 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
- 11:30-12:15 Lunch
- 12:15-12:40 Gion
- 12:50-13:20 Nintendo Shop
- 13:30-14:00 Nishiki Market
- 14:10 Pokemon Center
- End
Tour Itinerary in Detail
The itinerary covered Hyatt Regency Kyoto at 8:10, Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine at 8:30, Kiyomizu-dera Temple at 9:30, Gion at 12:15, Nintendo Shop at 12:50, Nishiki Market at 13:30 and Pokemon Center at 14:10.
Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like With a Licensed Guide? A JGA Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, and Nishiki Market
The tour started considerably earlier than scheduled. The guests were a group visiting from North America. At Fushimi Inari Taisha there were few tourists, so we moved smoothly and I was able to introduce the Omokaru-ishi stones and the Nemuri-no-matsu pine. We then headed to Kiyomizu-dera, and since it was early in the morning we were able to see it ahead of schedule, so for lunch I suggested a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant. We were able to eat without any waiting time, and after enjoying some Japanese games there, we headed toward Hanamikoji Street. The driver dropped us off in front of the Nintendo shop at the department store, and after shopping we headed to Nishiki Market. Around this point one of the guests became tired, so we wrapped up a little early and took them to the Pokémon Center, which had not been on the itinerary, ending the tour about 20 minutes early. One of the guests had wanted a Japanese sword, but unfortunately it could not be purchased since it could not be taken home. That may have been a bit of a disappointment.
Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
Hello, my name is Harumi, and I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter in Japan. I have been actively involved in volunteer activities for many years, sharing my passion for Japanese culture and history. As a kimono dressing instructor, I can provide hands-on kimono experiences and guide tours. Additionally, I have extensive knowledge of sumo wrestling, making my tours ideal for those interested in this fascinating sport. I am also well-versed in Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings (Jūdenken) and can introduce historical townscapes dating back to the Edo period. If you are interested, I would be happy to show you around the sake brewing process in the Nada region.
Jul 11, 2026
Rahul_P
Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
Private Tour
Highly recommended if looking for a comfortable tour…
Jul 11, 2026
Rahul_P
Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
Private Tour
Highly recommended if looking for a comfortable tour of kyoto. Our guide and driver were amazing. The guide was very knowledgeable and explained everything with great details as we toured around.
Jul 7, 2026
782MarkS782
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Harumi and Kyoto
This was amazing – truly memory making. Harumi is…
Jul 7, 2026
782MarkS782
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Harumi and Kyoto
This was amazing – truly memory making. Harumi is an incredible guide – she personalised our tour according to our interests, we laughed, we learned and she created memories – Thank you (one of the best).
Jun 25, 2026
JenCBear
Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Great visit with a great guide Harumi
Harumi was a fantastic guide…
Jun 25, 2026
JenCBear
Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Great visit with a great guide Harumi
Harumi was a fantastic guide – very friendly and very knowledgeable. Even weeks before the tour, her communication was outstanding, asking me what we would be interested in seeing, ages and interests of the members in our party, and laying out a thoughtful and perfect itinerary for our day. Her knowledge made our visit to Himeji Castle way more interesting and engaging than if we had just gone by ourselves. We would definitely book again!
Jun 21, 2026
Andrew_M
Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
Amazing guided experience
Harumi is an amazing guide.…
Jun 21, 2026
Andrew_M
Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
Amazing guided experience
Harumi is an amazing guide. Knows everything about the sites she takes you to. She is excellent with kids and even brought them oregami and treats. The heat was a bit oppressive and we were so glad we paid for the driver with a large and clean air conditioned van. Harumi, the guide, was a true professional. She devised a very good itinerary and was also flexible when the kids were hungry, etc. Would highly recommend.