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
- AM 9:30 Hotel AM9:45 Miyagawa Morning Market 10:15 Kusakabe Folk Museum 10:45 Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine 12:00 Old Townscape・Break 13:30 Shiroyama Park 14:30 Kamisannomachi 15:30 Hotel
What Is a Private Walking Tour of Takayama Like? A Licensed Guide's Report
The guests were a group visiting from North America and South America. Although they each live in different places, they came to Japan together this time. Since they had already seen Shirakawa-go and Kanazawa, they felt Hida no Sato was unnecessary. They also planned to visit Kyoto afterward and see plenty of temples, so shrines and temples were not needed either. Their preferences were very clear, but they were interested in Kokubunji Temple with its large ginkgo tree. They often made jokes, so it was fun. This time there was no sake tour at all, and since the schedule suddenly changed and the train time was altered, the ending felt a bit rushed. The weather was nice with strong sunshine, making it a perfect day for a walk. The shrine had no other visitors, so it felt like a private visit, which the guests were delighted by. I had been worried about them feeling thirsty, but since they live in a warm region, they found Takayama pleasant and comfortable. We mostly followed the basic itinerary, but since there was time to spare, we took it easy and I made various suggestions here and there. This time I guided guests to Shiroyama Park for the first time, and elsewhere we tried feeding the carp. They were interested in the bear warning signs. A cleaning staff member was wearing a bear bell, so they kindly showed it to us. Takayama Jinya was skipped due to physical stamina and time constraints. During the explanation, they patiently listened even in moments where I had held back thinking no explanation was needed. At the antique clocks on the second floor of the Kusakabe Folk Museum, an explanation of the twelve zodiac animals was needed, and the guests were well versed in Japanese and Chinese culture. Since things got hectic at the end and I could not take a group photo, I am submitting the attached photo instead.
Click here for more details: Takayama Local Food & Sake Culture Tour, Licensed Guide
I was born, raised, and still live in Takayama, and I am a licensed National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter.
My guiding philosophy is to create unforgettable memories through warm, cheerful, and engaging experiences. I enjoy sharing not only the highlights of the region, but also the history, culture, and stories that make each place unique.
I studied International Relations at a national university and have built a diverse career in the tourism industry, including hotels, travel agencies, and the local tourism association. Today, I primarily guide luxury travelers, as well as private and group tours, offering authentic cultural experiences, visits with local artisans, and in-depth insights into Japanese traditions.
I also practice Japanese calligraphy, the Omotesenke school of tea ceremony, Sencha (Baisa-ryu), and kimono dressing, allowing me to incorporate traditional Japanese culture into my tours.
I mainly guide in Takayama, Okuhida, Shirakawa-go, Gokayama, Kanazawa, and Kamikochi. I look forward to helping make your visit to Japan a truly memorable experience.
Sep 26, 2024
L9503LEstephenr
Amazing experience and best guide ever ✨️
Tripadvisor review: Takayama Half-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
We did the tour…
Sep 26, 2024
L9503LEstephenr
Amazing experience and best guide ever ✨️
Tripadvisor review: Takayama Half-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
We did the tour for our honeymoon and we had a really great experience!
Mitsu was such a great and very much kind guide, we had such an amazing time with her!
She gave us a lot of great informations about the cultural aspect of the places that she shown us.
She was also very fun and very thoughtful, you will definitely have a great time with her.
I totally recommend her to book as guide, she will make your experience into great memories.
Aug 29, 2024
Stay19758434714
Takayama tour with Mitsu!
Tripadvisor review: Takayama Local Cuisine, Food & Sake Cultural Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Mitsu was an amazing…
Aug 29, 2024
Stay19758434714
Takayama tour with Mitsu!
Tripadvisor review: Takayama Local Cuisine, Food & Sake Cultural Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Mitsu was an amazing tour guide! She was very courteous, inviting and knowledgeable. My family and I felt very comfortable with her. It was especially great to learn about the town of Takayama from a local person. Mitsu is like a historian there and she is very passionate about her town! The tour was very well planned with our thoughts and wishes considered. Thank you Mitsu!
Aug 24, 2024
Joy L
Mitsu introduces us to the heritage of Takayama
Tripadvisor review: Takayama Local Cuisine, Food & Sake Cultural Tour with Government-Licensed…
Aug 24, 2024
Joy L
Mitsu introduces us to the heritage of Takayama
Tripadvisor review: Takayama Local Cuisine, Food & Sake Cultural Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Mitsu made our visit very special with her preparation and presentation. She is a wonderful ambassador for Takayama and her country. She was extremely tolerant of our changes to the initial itinerary due to the heat. Her relationship with the local crafts people introduced us to a beautiful aspect of Takayama that we wouldn’t have been able to engage with by ourselves.
Aug 13, 2024
sall450
Mitsu the BEST tourist guide in Takayama
Tripadvisor review: Takayama Local Cuisine, Food & Sake Cultural Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Mitsu…
Aug 13, 2024
sall450
Mitsu the BEST tourist guide in Takayama
Tripadvisor review: Takayama Local Cuisine, Food & Sake Cultural Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Mitsu is the best of the best. She is more than a tourist guide, the true embassador of Takayama. She knows every corner and hidden gems of the city, with all the gratitude and kindness she will explain to you every detail. 100% recommended if you want to visit the town with the eyes of a local
Aug 13, 2024
Exploration487130
Takayama tour
Tripadvisor review: Takayama Local Cuisine, Food & Sake Cultural Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Mitsu guide was very patient, she loves her job. We had a great time with her. She got us
to historical and local places. ♥️