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
- 9:00 Ujina Port Cruise Ship Terminal, Welcome
- 9:10-9:30 Travel by taxi to Peace Memorial Park
- 9:30-10:45 Peace Memorial Park, guided tour of each monument begins
- 10:45-12:00 Museum
- 12:00-12:15 Travel by taxi to Shukkeien Garden
- 12:15-12:45 Shukkeien Garden
- 12:45-13:00 Travel by taxi to the downtown lunch venue
- 13:00 Tour ends
# What's a Private Guided Tour in Hiroshima Like from a Cruise Ship? A Licensed Guide's Report
The guests were a group visiting Japan from Europe, enjoying a cruise ship journey together. Because the ship had stopped at a port the previous day, immigration procedures were required upon arrival, and disembarkation took considerable time, possibly due to a shortage of staff handling the process. I was worried about the delay, but the guests were only about 10 minutes behind schedule, and we were able to meet up and depart. After visiting the Peace Memorial Park and the museum, the somewhat solemn atmosphere was gently eased by the cherry blossoms at Shukkeien Garden, where the blooming had been declared three days earlier. This private tour with a government-licensed guide from [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) allowed the guests to experience both the historical significance and the seasonal beauty of Hiroshima. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures.
Click here for more details: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
Welcome to Hiroshima.
My name is Hiroshi Tsuji, a licensed guide based in Hiroshima and Miyajima. My family has been connected to Miyajima for more than 300 years, and I am pleased to share the history, culture, and daily life of this unique island with visitors from around the world. Please feel free to call me Hiroshi.
With a background in outdoor sports—including rock climbing, scuba diving, and long-distance triathlons—I have completed several Ironman races abroad. I studied in Kyoto and later worked in management at a publicly listed company, which allowed me to live in many different regions of Japan and develop a deeper understanding of the country’s diverse culture and history.
In Hiroshima, I guide guests through the Peace Memorial Park, including the Atomic Bomb Dome, and share perspectives on the history of Hiroshima and modern Japan.
In Miyajima, I introduce Itsukushima Shrine, Mount Misen, the island’s beautiful scenery, and its local cuisine. As someone whose family has been connected to Miyajima for generations, I also enjoy sharing local insights and experiences that offer a more personal connection to the island’s culture and way of life.
I look forward to welcoming you to Hiroshima and Miyajima.
Hiroshi
Sep 25, 2026
philiprA2432ZA
Hiroshima & Miyajima
Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
Our guide Hiroshi picked us up…
Sep 25, 2026
philiprA2432ZA
Hiroshima & Miyajima
Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
Our guide Hiroshi picked us up at our hotel. We went first to Miyajima on the ferry. Hiroshi was very knowledgeable about the area. We had a fabulous time there and a delicious lunch in a local restaurant. After that we went to Hiroshima museum. This was so sad. Again Hiroshi was very knowledgeable about the bombing as his family remembers it. We went to the Peace park. Hiroshi taught us how to make an origami crane! A great day with a lovely guide.
Margaret & Philip
Sep 23, 2026
Sygeplejersken78
The best guide – Thank you 🙏🇯🇵🇩🇰
Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
We had…
Sep 23, 2026
Sygeplejersken78
The best guide – Thank you 🙏🇯🇵🇩🇰
Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
We had an unforgettable day in Hiroshima and Miyajima with our wonderful guide, Hiroshi. He was kind, patient, knowledgeable, and explained everything so clearly. We felt comfortable asking him anything, and his stories made the experience even more meaningful.
Visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park was deeply moving and emotional. Hiroshi shared the history with great sensitivity, giving us a deeper understanding of the events and the importance of peace and remembrance.
Thank you, Hiroshi, for your kindness and for making our day so special. We highly recommend him as a guide! ❤️
From Tina, Lars, Dorthe and Henrik from Denmark
Sep 21, 2026
Pioneer19650761736
You Won’t Regret Booking with Hiroshi
Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide
We had the most amazing…
Sep 21, 2026
Pioneer19650761736
You Won’t Regret Booking with Hiroshi
Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide
We had the most amazing tour to Miyajima Island, all thanks to Hiroshi! He is such a lovely, kind, and genuinely thoughtful guide. From start to finish, he made us feel so welcome and went out of his way to ensure we enjoyed every moment of our trip. His warmth made the experience unforgettable. If you are planning a visit, definitely book a tour with Hiroshi—he is the best!
Sep 11, 2026
stephanie782022
Fantastic tour experience
Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide
We had such a fantastic day with Hiroshi,…
Sep 11, 2026
stephanie782022
Fantastic tour experience
Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide
We had such a fantastic day with Hiroshi, who was very friendly, knowledgeable and helped us have a remarkable experience. Our highlight was our local lunch, where we created meaningful origami cranes and enjoyed local specialties. Tour and guide were beyond our expectations and we are very grateful for our experience.