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
- 8:40 meet up with guests at the North gate of Hiroshima station (Shinkansenguchi)
- 8:45 meet with a driver at the rotary of Hiroshima station (*car hire all day long)
- 9:00 Hiroshima Castle
- 10:10 Peace Memorial Park (atomic bomb dome=Rest House=Children's peace Monument=Flame of Peace= Cenotaph)
- 11:00 Peace Memorial Museum
- 11:55 Lunch@Indian Restaurant
- 12:50. Monument of Gandhi
- 13:20 arrive @Miyajimaguchi =ferry to Miyajima Island
- 13:20-15:30 Miyajima (Itsukushima shrine=Five-storied Pagoda=Omodesando shopping street)
- 15:40-15:50 ferry to Miyajimaguchi
- 15:50-16:50 back to Hiroshima station and break up
- *The guiding basically ends at 15:50. Since the vehicle was hired, they gave me a ride all the way to Hiroshima station.
Title: What Is a Private Full-Day Car Tour in Japan Like? A Licensed Guide's Report
This tour kept the coordinator concerned right up until the end. I could not reach the taxi driver of the chartered vehicle until the day itself (just five minutes before the meeting time), so I was quite worried about how things would turn out, but in the end everything went smoothly and I was able to guide without any trouble. With the guests' travel agency in Asia, another agent in Asia, a Japan-based vehicle arrangement agency (foreign-run), and a foreign driver all involved, and messages going back and forth in a messaging app group that I had been added to only the day before the tour, there was a moment when I feared how it might all unfold. It seems that, based on an initial email from [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) regarding the guests arranging a rental car themselves, the agent in Asia understood that "the guide had withdrawn from this booking."
The tour itself went without any problems at all, and I spent an enjoyable full day with the guests. The driver on the day also handled everything very well, though I suspect the vehicle may not have been a properly licensed taxi. On the day I deliberately chose not to confirm this. Perhaps that was part of the reason I could not reach the driver until the last minute, though this is only my own speculation. I did of course ask the agent in Asia whether the arranged vehicle and driver held a proper operating license in Japan, and the answer was yes.
Had I pressed the matter, there might have been issues, but I prioritized carrying out the tour for the guests above all, and I feel it was good that we were able to complete it safely. I am sorry to have caused the [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/) coordinator so much concern. Thank you very much for your support.
Click here for more details: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
I hope this message finds you well and full of excitement for your upcoming journey to Hiroshima! My name is Kay, and I am thrilled to be your designated tour guide for this adventure.
As a guide deeply passionate about the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of this area, I am eager to share these experiences with you. With nearly 10 years of experience as a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of welcoming guests from all over the world, each bringing their own unique perspectives and interests. Whether this is your first-time visiting Hiroshima or you’re returning to explore it more deeply, my goal is to provide you with an enriching and memorable experience.
Our itinerary will take us through some of the most iconic landmarks, as well as a few hidden gems that only locals know about. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient architecture, indulging in the local cuisine, or learning about the fascinating history that has shaped this place, I am here to tailor the tour to your interests. My aim is to not only guide you but also to connect you with the heart and soul of Hiroshima.
I understand that traveling to a new country can sometimes be a bit overwhelming, especially with language barriers and unfamiliar customs. Please consider me your local resource – not just for the tour itself, but for any questions or concerns you may have during your stay. From dining recommendations to advice on local etiquette, I am more than happy to assist in making your visit as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Before we begin our tour, feel free to share with me any specific interests or special requests you might have. Whether it’s a particular site you’re eager to visit, a type of cuisine you’re curious to try, or even a story you’ve heard about this place that you’d like to explore further, your input will help me craft an experience that is uniquely suited to you. Thank you for choosing to explore Hiroshima with me. I look forward to meeting you in person and sharing in the discovery of all that this incredible place has to offer.
If you have any questions before your arrival, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Until then, I wish you safe travels and eagerly await the opportunity to guide you on what promises to be an unforgettable journey.
Warm regards,
Kay
Jun 3, 2026
Y5284SOjeffe
Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
Hiroshima Peace Park and Miyajima Island Walking Tour
Keiko…
Jun 3, 2026
Y5284SOjeffe
Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
Hiroshima Peace Park and Miyajima Island Walking Tour
Keiko met us at our hotel for a 9am start. We found her very friendly and her English was excellent. During the course of the tour her knowledge of The events of Hiroshima before and after the bombing was of great benefit to us. Also her wealth of knowledge of Miyajima and the shrines made the trip well worth the visit. Keiko also pointed out certain places of interest along the way which we found very useful as well. We couldn’t recommend her highly enough. Thank you Keiko for a wonderful day. Thank you Kiko for a wonderful day.
Apr 21, 2026
gailk914
Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
Amazing tour & guide!
Unforgettable and emotionally moving tour of…
Apr 21, 2026
gailk914
Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
Amazing tour & guide!
Unforgettable and emotionally moving tour of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, A-Bomb site, underground basement of a survivor of the bombing, and Shukkeien Gardens. Our tour guide, Kay (Keiko) made the tour special. From the time I booked the tour (four months prior), she was in contact with me ensuring our needs were accommodated and working with us on tour itinerary. She even checked for information on how we could get tickets to the Hiroshima Carp game. During the tour, she gave us important information surrounding the history, people, and road to recovery. Kay went above and beyond what most tour guides would do. Also, her English and comprehension was excellent! Highly recommend you ask for Kay.
Jul 10, 2025
Z4238KUrebeccag
Amazing day
Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
This was amazing. Kay was so knowledgeable…
Jul 10, 2025
Z4238KUrebeccag
Amazing day
Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
This was amazing. Kay was so knowledgeable and passionate about the tour . She was a
delight to spend the day with . Well worth it !
Jun 13, 2025
Olga870
Ahora tenemos nuestro corazón en Japón. La mejor experiencia
Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide…
Jun 13, 2025
Olga870
Ahora tenemos nuestro corazón en Japón. La mejor experiencia
Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
Vamos en un crucero por Japón. El tour de Miyajima e Hiroshima ha sido el top del viaje. Lo más fantástico y maravilloso que hemos vivido. Keiko (Kay) ha sido una guía increíble. Pensó en todos los detalles y nos dio la oportunidad de conocer todo lo posible en muy poco tiempo. El tour fue en inglés, pero dio cantidades de detalles que pudimos traducir a los familiares que hablaban solo español. Keiko fue muy amable y atenta a darnos gusto a todos. Este tour lo recomiendo y viviría una y otra vez, en especial con Keiko.
2025年6月13日
Olga870様
今、私たちの心は日本にあります。最高の体験
Tripadvisorレビュー：広島・宮島 プライベート日帰りツアー（国家資格ガイド付き）
私たちは日本を巡るクルーズに参加していますが、宮島と広島のツアーは旅のハイライトでした。これまでに体験した中で最も素晴らしく感動的なものでした。
ガイドのKeiko（ケイ）さんは本当に素晴らしかったです。細かいところまで気を配ってくれて、短い時間の中でできる限り多くの場所を案内してくれました。
ツアーは英語で行われましたが、彼女の説明はとても丁寧で、スペイン語しか話さない家族にも私たちが通訳して伝えることができました。