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.
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
- 10:00 Hotel
- 10:50-11:50 Shoshazan Engyoji Temple
- 12:30-13:00 Kokoen Garden
- 13:10-13:40 Lunch
- 14:00-15:00 Himeji Castle
- 15:20-15:40 Miyuki Street
- 15:45 Himeji Station
- End
Tour Itinerary in Detail
Over the course of the day the route took in Shoshazan Engyoji Temple at 10:50, Kokoen Garden at 12:30, Himeji Castle at 14:00, Miyuki Street at 15:20 and Himeji Station at 15:45.
Travel between the sites was by public transport: Himeji to Shoshazan Ropeway by bus (320JPY); Shoshazan Ropeway by bus (530JPY). Across 2 sections the fare came to 850JPY per person.
The guests were visitors from Asia. The trip by bus took a little time, and since it was very hot outside, we traveled while taking care of everyone's condition. At Mount Shosha, they purchased a charm at the Maniden and asked what to do with old charms. They were able to leave an old charm at the Maniden, and I explained what happens to them afterward. We went as far as the Mitsunodo and returned by bus to Koko-en, where we had intended to have lunch, but since they said they wanted something more local, we toured Koko-en and then ate soba and curry near a souvenir shop before heading to the castle. After we had gone up to the second floor, I sensed that one of the guests was feeling unwell, and after discussing it we decided to head back. On such a hot day, seeing someone who had collapsed on the second floor of the castle, we talked about how it is also important not to overexert oneself and to turn back. As we walked along Miyuki-dori, they recovered, and near the station they kindly gave me a souvenir, which touched me deeply.
Click here for more details: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
Transportation cost per person
| No. | Transportation | Route | Fare |
| Section 1 | Bus | Himeji～Shoshazan Ropeway / Shinki Bus | 320JPY |
| Section 2 | Bus | Shoshazan Ropeway / Shinki Bus～School for the Deaf / Kokoen Garden / Shinki Bus | 530JPY |
| Total | 850JPY | ||
Frequently Asked Questions
Which places does this itinerary cover?
This tour visited Shoshazan Engyoji Temple, Kokoen Garden, Himeji Castle, Miyuki Street and Himeji Station.
How much did transport cost on this tour?
Public transport came to 850JPY per person across 2 sections. Transport fares are paid by the guests and are not included in the guiding fee.
Is the guide licensed, and what language is the tour in?
Harumi is a government-licensed national guide-interpreter of Japan and guided this tour in English. Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.) works with more than 1,000 licensed guides across all 47 prefectures. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.
Can the itinerary be changed for my own trip?
Yes. This report describes one private tour as it actually ran. Every Hyogo itinerary is built around the guests, so the places, the pace and the starting point can all be changed before the tour.
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.
Sep 29, 2026
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We had an amazing tour with Harumi in Kyoto. From the moment she was paired as our guide, she contacted us to personalize the daytrip. She shared great suggestions and ideas for the tour.
During the tour, she shared so much information about Japan, the history, culture, and meanings. So informative and thoughtful.
We had an amazing time with her and would highly highly recommend.
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Our tour was definitely customized and our guide Harumi was excellent! Leading up to our excursion she involved us in selecting options of things to do. She communicated clearly about meeting point and tips to bring so we would be prepared for the possibility of rain. Harumi was very knowledgeable on the places we visited and we learned a great deal about Japanese customs and traditions. The beginning of our tour we spent time exploring Kitano – cho foreign district. At the Shrine, Harumi shared key information about the gods and demonstrated how make a wish. We had the opportunity to eat lunch at a sushi bar where you order a selection of Japanese foods and experience eating with chopsticks! Motomachi Shopping district was a great place to spend the afternoon after our tour. What a wonderful experience!
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Sep 27, 2026
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Learning is fun with Harumi san!
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
My husband and I booked a private tour and car to visit places on the outskirts of Kyoto. Our tour guide, Harumi Sagayama, not only provided a wealth of knowledge about our stops but also about the culture, history and politics of Kyoto. She was also critical on helping us narrow down the choices available to us. Our driver, Suzuki san, provided an impeccably clean, safe and comfortable ride as well. Absolutely delightful all around.
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We had a great time! Kyoto is a beautiful city.
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Cosmopolitan580857
We had a great time! Kyoto is a beautiful city.
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
Harumi and Kouzo San were very nice and constantly checked how we were doing.
Our party had one member using a mobility scooter and they made sure she was taken care of and was comfortable all the time. She even played a traditional Japanese game with us in the car before we got dropped off and this completed a most memorable and enjoyable time with them.