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
- Picked up at Windam Garden Sapporo Odori (hotel). Strolled from Odori Park Block 7 to Block 1. Since the Lilac Festival was starting the next day, they were preparing the food stalls. However, the lilacs had begun to bloom (reddish-purple, bluish-purple, white, etc.). We also took many photos of tulips, azaleas, lily of the valley, and more. As they wished to climb to the top of the TV Tower, the guide accompanied them. It was slightly cloudy, but they enjoyed the panoramic view. After that, we guided them to the Clock Tower, the former Hokkaido Government Office, and its front garden. In the afternoon, we guided them to the Sapporo Beer Museum.

Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of Sapporo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report
The guests were visiting from Oceania. They mentioned it was their first time visiting Hokkaido. While strolling through Odori Park, they gazed with great fascination at the plants that caught their eye. They paid close attention not only to the flowers in the flower beds but also to trees estimated to be around 80 to 100 years old. I handed out a small booklet (6 pages) that I had made myself and explained the location and climate of Hokkaido and Sapporo. While talking about their home region, they cheerfully shared that they have a swimming pool at home and often swim during the warmer months.
Click here for more details: Sapporo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Hello! Welcome to Otaru, Hokkaido, Japan. My name is Katsuko Kemanai, a female guide. I would be happy to serve you as a local tourist guide.
I live in Sapporo, Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan. I know you are a guest of a luxurious ocean liner. You will visit Otaru on April 21. Otaru is a port city, known for its tasty seafood. The city was once an economic hub of Hokkaido. You will see the former canal, Sakaimachi Street, where a lot of sushi bars, glass-blowing studios, museums, and gift shops. While in the suburbs, Mt. Tengu or Shukutsu Peninsular, where you will have a panoramic view including an ocean view. Please entertain yourself on the luxurious passenger boat. These spots will certainly entertain you. I look forward to seeing you.
Sincerely yours,
Guide Katsuko Kemanai
Feb 7, 2025
Stay38335184325
A very frosty day in a very interesting little seaside town
Tripadvisor review: Otaru 6hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
Our…
Feb 7, 2025
Stay38335184325
A very frosty day in a very interesting little seaside town
Tripadvisor review: Otaru 6hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
Our guide, Kate was very informative and knew the best places to take us as we visited
during winter. It was very cold, windy and icy, but she managed to get us around safely.
Dec 27, 2024
G
G5102BEannied
Sapporo, Hokaido Winter Escapade
Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
We had an experienced tour guide…
Dec 27, 2024
G
G5102BEannied
Sapporo, Hokaido Winter Escapade
Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
We had an experienced tour guide who gave us a good history of sapporo and explained some of the areas we passed by. A great place with a lot of winter magic place.. snow is powdery and illumination is everywhere.. great experience! Thank you mam Kate (Katsuko Kemanai)
Oct 30, 2024
Clarice W
A Day of Joy at Otaru Canal, Half-day Walking Tour
Tripadvisor review: Otaru 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
Katsuko-san…
Oct 30, 2024
Clarice W
A Day of Joy at Otaru Canal, Half-day Walking Tour
Tripadvisor review: Otaru 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
Katsuko-san is patient, knowledgeable, polite and extremely helpful. Well-versed in English,
she is enjoying every moment of her profession to serve with distinction and
professionalism. Thank you, we enjoyed the walking tour👍
