Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in One Day: Transfer: Move to Gion by taxi

    Kyoto in One Day: Transfer: Move to Gion by taxi

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet: Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu
    • 09:10 Transfer: Move from the hotel to Kinkaku-ji Temple by taxi
    • 09:35 Sightseeing ①: Visit Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 10:20 Transfer: Move to Imamiya Shrine by taxi
    • 10:30 Sightseeing ②: Eat "aburi-mochi" at the "Ichimonji-ya Wasuke" shop on the approach, and also visit the main hall
    • 10:50 Transfer: Move to Gion by taxi
    • 11:10 Sightseeing ③: Stroll around Gion and Hanamikoji Street
    • 11:30 Lunch/Break (Japanese cuisine "Gion Kirara")
    • 12:20 Sightseeing ④: Visit Kennin-ji Temple
    • 13:30 Transfer: Move to Nijo Castle by taxi
    • 13:45 Sightseeing ⑤: Visit Nijo Castle
    • 15:00 End of guided tour, dismissal (Nijo Castle)

    What Is a Private Taxi Day Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji, Nijo Castle, and Gion The guests this time were visitors from North America who were touring Japan. Prior arrangements, such as adjusting the destinations, were made by email with one of the guests. They had a strong interest in Japanese history and culture, and it seemed they had done a fair amount of studying beforehand. During the pre-tour discussion, the final itinerary was set as: "Kinkaku-ji ⇒ Ichiwa (aburi-mochi) ⇒ lunch and rest ⇒ stroll through Gion ⇒ Ninenzaka, Sannenzaka, Kiyomizu-dera ⇒ end of tour and dismissal." As for transportation between destinations, since the first stop was Kinkaku-ji and we would then return to Gion, public transportation would have taken too long, so we decided to use taxis throughout. However, the night before (around 22:00 on May 15), I received an email from one of the guests saying, "After thinking it over carefully, I would like to visit a site related to politics (Nijo Castle) rather than a religious site (Kiyomizu-dera), so please change it." I immediately replied that "I fully understand visiting Nijo Castle instead of Kiyomizu-dera, so we can change it without any problem," and the last-minute change was made. The day turned out to be hot, reminiscent of summer heat. After a brief greeting and confirmation of the itinerary, we quickly set off by taxi. During the ride (about 30 minutes), I gave them some general background knowledge about Japanese history, particularly the coexistence of the imperial system and samurai rule, and the relationship between Shinto and Buddhism. This background knowledge served as a foundation for the explanations at Kinkaku-ji and Nijo Castle, which we visited afterward, and seemed to help deepen their understanding. For lunch, I had reserved a Japanese restaurant on Hanamikoji Street in Gion, and the guests were satisfied with the diverse flavors of Kyoto cuisine. After lunch, since we had a little time to spare, at my suggestion we decided to visit Kennin-ji, located right in the heart of Gion. The guests thoroughly enjoyed this Zen temple, said to be the oldest in Kyoto. Because this tour used taxis for transportation, including during lunch, we had plenty of time to talk with the guests, and the conversation flowed on a wide variety of topics. It turned out to be an enjoyable Kyoto tour with pleasant company.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Nori

    Hi, everyone! I’m Norifumi Kamon, a government registered guide interpreter. Please call me “Nori”, or “Kamon-san”.
    Let me introdece myself. I was born on April 17th in 1952 in Miyazaki prefecture in Kyushu island. I used to be an English teacher of Osaka Prefectural high school. When I retired from a teacher ten years ago, I decided to get a professional guide license. I wanted to play a role of the bridge between Japanese people and the people from all over the world as a second life of mine. After two years efforts, I finally got the guide license. Since then, I have guided several handreds of foreign people mainly in Kyoto and Nara for about five years except Corona Pandemic period. Almost all the tourists were deeply impressed by the beauty of nature, traditoin, culture, and art of Japan. I can surely help you enjoy and be satisfied with the sightseeing in Japan. And I’m looking forward to seeing you soon.

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    Apr 9, 2026
    Ron_W
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We saw so much in the…
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    Mar 24, 2026
    zackn719
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Knowledgeable guide and a great tour
    We did our private tour with…

    Oct 20, 2025
    66speech
    Highlights of Kyoto.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience with Nori. Nori exceeded our expectations with…

    Oct 16, 2025
    Michael_H
    Thoroughly enjoyed the…
    Viator review: Osaka Off the Beaten Path 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
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  • Kanagawa in One Day: Gora Park & Hotel → Dismissal

    Kanagawa in One Day: Gora Park & Hotel → Dismissal

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00　Meet @ Hotel
    • 11:20　Board mountain train @ Miyanoshita
    • 11:50　Gora Park
    • 12:30　Board cable car @ Koen-kami Station
    • 12:50　Owakudani
    • 14:10　Board ropeway @ Owakudani Station
    • 15:10　Board pirate ship @ Togendai
    • 15:40　Maruyama Bussan
    • 17:00　Hakone Shrine
    • 18:00　Dinner @ The Bistro
    • 19:30　Arrive at Hotel → Dismissal

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Asia. Since detailed requests regarding meals and places to visit had been provided in advance, I arranged the itinerary to match those wishes. Although it was slightly early for the roses to bloom, the group was very pleased with Gora Park, which we visited first. Because Mount Fuji was visible, we spent a generous amount of time — nearly an hour — taking photographs at Owakudani. When we disembarked at Moto-Hakone and walked to Hakone Shrine, some fatigue was noticeable, but the walk amid the fresh green foliage seemed refreshing, so it did not lead to any dissatisfaction. After visiting Hakone Shrine, I was invited to dinner, and after joining the group I saw them back to their Hotel.

    Click here for more details: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by LEO

    Hello! I’m Ryosuke—please call me Leo.
    I’d love to help you create great memories in Japan, especially around Tokyo and my hometown, Hiroshima.

    I once traveled 44,000 km by bicycle across four continents (every continent except Australia!). There’s a chance I might even have passed through your hometown. Through that journey, I learned not only how wonderful travel can be, but also the things travelers should watch out for.

    With that experience, I’m sure I can help make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
    Let’s have a great time exploring Japan together!

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    Jul 30, 2026
    BrianBurnette
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great Memories
    We really enjoyed this tour. Leo, our…

    Jul 24, 2026
    893cydneyh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Best Tour Guide
    We had an incredible 6-hour tour…

    May 25, 2026
    llindgren0604
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A seamless experience
    Leo was a great tour guide. We got…

    May 21, 2026
    lyndapI1304ZZ
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking guide in Hakone
    Unfortunately the weather restricted some of our…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Tochomae Station & Harajuku Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tochomae Station & Harajuku Station

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meeting point: Hotel Tokyo
    • 11:10 Tochomae Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 11:20 Shinjuku West Exit
    • Shinjuku Shinjuku Station・Ekitabi Concierge
    • 11:30 Depart Shinjuku Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 12:00 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • 12:40 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 13:00 Arrive Komagome Station
    • Komagome Rikugien Garden
    • 13:30 Depart Komagome Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 14:00 Arrive Harajuku Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • Rest: Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • 14:45 Depart Harajuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 15:00 Arrive Shinjuku Station
    • 15:00 Dismissal: Shinjuku Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo from Asakusa to Meiji Shrine? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe, on their first trip to Japan. They arrived at Narita Airport the previous evening and took a taxi to their hotel. Because clearing customs took some time, they reportedly reached the hotel around 4:00 p.m. The previous day, they had strolled around the area near their hotel. This time, they were on a ten-day trip to Japan. They planned to stay in Tokyo for four days, then travel by Shinkansen to Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara, before returning home by air from Kansai Airport. Today, they wished to "take a quick walk around the city to get a feel for the traffic conditions, atmosphere, and general environment." It was a pleasant tour under clear skies and comfortable weather. Since they wanted to buy a "Welcome Suica Card," we first went to the Ekitabi Concierge at Shinjuku Station (they said the line of tourists waiting to buy Suica Cards at the airport had been very long). After the purchase, we moved to Asakusa. Starting from the front of Kaminarimon Gate, I explained about Senso-ji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo, what the five-story pagoda is for, what Buddhism is, and the differences between Buddhism and Shinto. We took commemorative photos at Kaminarimon and various other spots, and slowly strolled through the crowded Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as "What are the major religions in Japan?", "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", "What other religions do people follow besides Buddhism?", and "How many Christians are there?" There was also a question: "We see many people wearing kimono within the temple grounds — why is that? Are they all Japanese?" We then went to Rikugien Garden in Komagome. I explained about the origins and current state of Rikugien. The weeping cherry trees had completely turned to green leaves, but the azaleas were in full bloom. They remarked, "The Japanese garden is wonderful. The views are magnificent." We moved on to Harajuku. Meiji Shrine was quite crowded with tourists. I explained about Shinto, torii gates, Emperor Meiji, why sake barrels are displayed, and why wine barrels are displayed. There were questions such as "What kind of religion is Shinto?" and "How do Buddhism and Shinto differ?" We took a short break at Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu. There were comments and questions such as "The trains are so quiet — no one is talking loudly," "The city is clean with no litter on the ground," and "The public restrooms are clean." We saw them off at Shinjuku Station and parted ways.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTochomae～Shinjuku West Exit180JPY
    Section 2OtherShinjuku (Tokyo Metro)～Asakusa260JPY
    Section 3TrainAsakusa～Ueno180JPY
    Section 4TrainUeno～Komagome200JPY
    Section 5TrainKomagome～Harajuku260JPY
    Section 6TrainHarajuku～Shinjuku160JPY
    Total1,240JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

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    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel meet-up　9:40 Kinkaku-ji　11:20 Sanjusangen-do　12:30 Lunch (yakiniku restaurant near Shijo Karasuma)　13:35 Higashiyama area (Yasaka Pagoda, Kongo-ji, Ninen-zaka, Ishibei-koji, Yasaka Shrine)　14:20 Gion　15:00 Tour ends

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji, Sanjusangendo, and Gion The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. For lunch, since there were dietary considerations, they mentioned that rice and beef would be fine, so I searched for a reasonably priced restaurant near the tour route and made a reservation. Everyone seemed to enjoy the lunch, which made the effort of finding the place worthwhile. Today was another hot day that felt like summer, so I chose shaded spots as much as possible while giving explanations. Everyone listened attentively, which I appreciated. They especially seemed to enjoy Kinkaku-ji and Sanjusangendo. The tour ended after we finished at Gion. The guests stayed in Gion to do some shopping. The photo was taken near the Yasaka Pagoda.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassGojo (Kyoto Municipal Subway)～Kiyomizu-michi (Kyoto City Bus)1,100JPY
    Total1,100JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

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    Jul 24, 2026
    Trail65429092687
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Tour
    Kazua Sumi is a very accomplished guide.He has deep…

    Jul 23, 2026
    489caelinp
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Guided Tour
    My friend and I had a great experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    margaretsM7923ON
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Great way to see Kyoto
    Wonderful tour and exceptional guide.

    Jul 9, 2026
    Sandra_B
    Kazuo was great and…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazuo was great and provided…

  • Shizuoka: Miho Shrine & Momijiyama Park

    Shizuoka: Miho Shrine & Momijiyama Park

    Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00　Meet up　(Shimizu Port)
    • 9:35　Miho Shrine
    • 10:00 Miho no Matsubara
    • 12:00　Sunpu Castle Park
    • 12:10　Momijiyama Park
    • 13:20 Lunch at Kashi no Ichi (Ogawa)
    • 14:30 Take the shuttle bus bound for Shimizu Port at Shimizu Station and finish

    What Is a Private Shizuoka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Miho no Matsubara, Sunpu Castle Park, and Local Tuna The weather was clear on the day, but unfortunately Mount Fuji was not visible. At Miho Shrine, the guests listened attentively to explanations about Japanese shrine culture, including how to pray as well as ema votive plaques, omamori charms, and omikuji fortune slips. At Miho no Matsubara, the guests appeared deeply moved by the grandeur of the pine grove. Afterwards, we visited Momijiyama Garden inside Sunpu Castle Park, and the guests were very pleased with the beauty of the Japanese garden. At the Kashi no Ichi market, the guests enjoyed tuna and beer and said, "Delicious!" The guests were people who had a strong interest in Japan from the outset. They listened attentively to the explanations at each location, and although it was a shame that Mount Fuji could not be seen, I felt that they were able to enjoy the nature, history, and food culture of Shizuoka.

    Click here for more details: Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHatoba Verkehr Museum／Shizutetsu Just Line～Miho no Matsubara Entrance／Shizutetsu Just Line340JPY
    Section 2BusMiho no Matsubara Entrance／Shizutetsu Just Line～Shimizu (Shizuoka Prefecture)440JPY
    Section 3TrainShimizu (Shizuoka Prefecture)～Shizuoka240JPY
    Section 4TrainShizuoka～Shimizu (Shizuoka Prefecture)240JPY
    Total1,260JPY

    Tour Report by Noah

    I have recently started my journey as a guide, and I am committed to providing attentive and personalized service to each and every guest. My goal is to share the charm and attractions of the local area to the fullest, ensuring that your experience becomes an unforgettable one.

    Though I am still new to this role, I aim to leverage my fresh perspective and adaptability while constantly striving to improve. I am dedicated to guiding with sincerity and enthusiasm.

    If you have any questions or requests, please don’t hesitate to let me know. I look forward to creating wonderful memories together!

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    Apr 30, 2026
    Darci_V
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    Naoko is an amazing ambassador!
    Naoko (Noah) was wonderful!…

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Hakone Shrine & The Hakone Open-Air Museum

    Kanagawa in One Day: Hakone Shrine & The Hakone Open-Air Museum

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 10:30 Take the cable car to Owakudani via Sounzan
    • 12:00 Take the pirate ship from Togendai to Motohakone Port
    • 14:00 Hakone Shrine
    • 15:40 The Hakone Open-Air Museum
    • 16:00 Tour ends

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Owakudani, Lake Ashi, and Hakone Shrine The guests were visitors from North America. They had already visited Tokyo and Kyoto, and Hakone was the final destination of their trip. Since it was a place they had never been to before, they arrived with high expectations. We were fortunate to have perfectly clear weather, and the view of Mount Fuji from Owakudani was outstanding. The guests were delighted, especially enjoying the local specialty "black eggs." On the pirate ship, they were able to secure a spot at the very front of the upper deck, and they were very satisfied to take in the wonderful views of Lake Ashi. At Hakone Shrine, I explained the meaning of the shrine, its influence on Japanese culture, and the proper way to pray, and the guests actually offered a prayer themselves. As it was a weekend with fine weather, every spot was overflowing with large numbers of tourists, but I believe the guests were able to fully enjoy the charm of Hakone.

    Click here for more details: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Atsushi

    Hello and welcome to Tokyo!

    I have been working for business with American companies for many years. I have many experiences guiding customers from around the world in Japan and taking Japanese customers to the USA and Europe.

    I now have a national license as a guiding interpreter, and I want to introduce the unique gigantic city of Tokyo and the traditional Japanese culture, which is not shown in the guidebooks, to people worldwide who are interested in it. In addition, I want to introduce various Japanese foods you can enjoy only in Japan.
    Unique experiences such as the Sumo Training Viewing and Tea Ceremony are optionally available.
    Depending on your preference and itinerary, I can guide you in Tokyo, Kamakura, and Hakone so that you can enjoy your time in Japan.

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    Jul 26, 2026
    Kevin_B
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Highly recommend this tour for first time…

    Jun 22, 2026
    Ashish_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best Tour for a Short Visit
    Atsushi-san was an incredibly well-researched and…

    May 27, 2026
    jackie m
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Our guide was really interesting and had…

    Apr 9, 2026
    Lindsey_W
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Atsushi, was…
    Our guide, Atsushi, was great! He met…

  • Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:50 Hotel
    • 9:40 Walk to Shukkeien Garden, Hiroshima Castle, Pacela
    • 11:30 CoCo Ichibanya, Hondori Street
    • 11:45 Hypocenter, Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Park Tour
    • 12:30 Maple-loop (240 yen) Hiroshima Station North Exit
    • 11:45 Sake tasting at Hiroshima Station
    • 13:00 Hotel

    Title: What's a Private Walking Tour of Hiroshima's Peace Park Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Asia who had previously lived in Tokyo for several years during the 1980s. They listened with great interest to my explanations about the G7 Summit held in Hiroshima, the fact that Hiroshima was once a capital, and that American soldiers were also among the victims of the atomic bomb. They were very surprised to learn that Americans had been victims of the atomic bomb, saying they had not known this at all. Regarding the Atomic Bomb Museum, they said they would visit it in the evening after the tour, when it tends to be less crowded. At Shukkeien Garden, admission was free for those aged 65 and over, which pleased them greatly, and they shared their ages with me. We also viewed from the outside Lopia, a store that recently opened in Hiroshima and has become a talking point, as well as the Motomachi Aquarium. After the tour, I mentioned they could continue to spend time in the city, but as they said they wanted to return to their accommodation first, the tour ended at the Hotel, which was our starting point. There was an unusual request for a recommendation for a curry restaurant. I initially thought they were looking for an Indian curry place, but they said they wanted to know about a Japanese curry restaurant. The first place that came to mind was CoCo Ichibanya. When I mentioned, "It's a curry chain restaurant," they said they wanted to go there. Having lived in Japan before, they said they were fond of Japanese curry. Before the Peace Park tour, I accompanied them to CoCo Ichibanya, marked it on the map, took photos of the guests, the curry restaurant, and the surrounding area, and sent them via a messaging app. Apart from taking a bus from the Peace Park to Hiroshima Station, they walked the entire way. When I remarked that they were strong walkers, they said that the previous year they had walked for nine hours with a guide to see gorillas in Africa. Throughout the tour and toward the end, they told me they were having a very enjoyable day and had learned many things. That is all.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherPeace Park (in front of Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum) / JR Bus Chugoku～Hiroshima Station240JPY
    Total240JPY

    Tour Report by miki

    Dear guests,
    Hello! My name is Miki. I was born and brought up in Hiroshima. I enjoy traveling around Inland Sea areas and I enjoy chatting with guests from overseas!

    In Hiroshima, you can see many beautiful rivers and old bridges. Lately, I often take photos of Hiroshima city including bridges and rivers. There are not many tall buildings here, but I know some places you can visit and see the view for free. By the atomic bomb dome, there is a building called Orizuru(paper crane) Tower. You need to pay to go up to the top floor but you can see the view of Hiroshima city and the Miyajima Island(Itsukushima).

    Many tourists from overseas as well as Japan want to visit Miyajima Island. You can see a beautiful shrine from Heian Period which is around 12th century and a huge Torii gate in front of the shrine and it is in the water. There are several ways to visit the island from Hiroshima city. If you are going to stay near JR Hiroshima Station, we will visit the island by JR train and JR ferry. If you are staying in the city area, we can go there by streetcar and ferry, or there is a high-speed boat from Peace Memorial Park pier directly to the island and vise versa.

    Hoping to see you in the near future!

    Miki
    Your tour guide in Hiroshima

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    May 20, 2026
    Barbgal
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Walking tour of Hiroshima – 4 hours
    It was a…

    May 16, 2026
    E8055FUjamesg
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Great day in sunny Hiroshima
    We were with Miki Nakashima,…

    Apr 5, 2026
    jacquid804
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Miki was amazing
    Miki was fabulous very informative and knowledgeable…

    Aug 19, 2025
    J
    Jemma H
    Excellent tour of Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Miyuki was a very…

  • Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 11:30 Kintetsu Nara Station
    • 2. 12:00 Nara Park
    • 3. 12:30 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 4. 13:30 Lunch @ "Emado Chaya"
    • 5. 14:30b Great Buddha Hall
    • 6. 15:30 Nandaimon Gate
    • 7.15:45 Okumura Research Institute
    • 8. 16:00 Kintetsu Nara Station

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Nara Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today I guided guests from Asia on a private tour of Nara. One of the guests was very impressed by the cleanliness of Japan and was thoroughly enjoying their trip. We met at Kintetsu Nara Station, explained the day's itinerary, and started the tour. The guests were a cheerful group. In Nara Park, we strolled in the warm sunshine while admiring the many deer, then walked to Kasuga Taisha Shrine, though one of the guests found walking a little tiring and needed rest along the way. At Kasuga Taisha Shrine, I explained Shinto, and since many Shinto teachings share common ground with their own faith, they understood it very well. At the shrine we prayed together in the Shinto style, and after taking breaks here and there, we made our way to Todaiji Temple via Wakakusayama. After lunch, we headed toward the Great Buddha Hall while viewing Nigatsudo, and I explained the Great Buddha. Here again, the conversation was lively as we discussed the common points between the teachings of Buddhism and their own faith. After the Great Buddha Hall, I explained earthquake-resistant structures at the Okumura Laboratory, famous for its seismic technology, and from there we walked through Kofukuji Temple to Kintetsu Nara Station, where we parted ways.

    Click here for more details: Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Toshi

    After a rather long teaching experience at Japanese college, I converted my career about 6 years ago into working as a tour guide for the tourists visiting Japan.
    As my career overseas, I’ve been in the UN and the Japanese Embassy, all in the USA, totaling more than 6 years.
    And then I had made a big change in my career from a diplomat to an academic researcher. For that career to achieve, I studied abroad and won a doctorate degree in linguistics from Indiana University and landed a teaching position at college in Japan.
    With all these interesting and exciting experiences I’ve made myself ready to enrich your tour and make it both enjoyable and worthwhile.

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    Apr 26, 2026
    39ferdinandr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Exceptional and entertaining
    Great tour better the tour guide Toshi.

    Apr 9, 2026
    X1429XKclaudiam
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sehr zu empfehlen
    Wir haben als Familie diese 6-stundige Tour durch Kyoto…

    Jun 28, 2025
    WilliamAlfonso_R
    Toshi is a very eloquent, knowledgeable, and diligent tour guide.
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Toshi was…

    May 30, 2025
    Z
    ZevP5
    Best Tour Guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the best guide!! He was so…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • Here’s the itinerary for you. 9:00 Depart from The Westin Tokyo
    • 9：00 leave hotel
    • * 9:20–10:00 — Meiji Shrine
    • * 10:30–11:00 — Nezu Shrine
    • * 11:00–11:40 — Yanaka walk
    • * 11:40–12:30 — Lunch break
    • * 1:00–1:40 — Sensō-ji / Asakusa
    • * 2:00–2:30 — Rikugien Gardens
    • * 3:00 PM — Finish at Shibuya

    What Can You See on a One-Day Private Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were travelers from North America who said they wanted to see all of Tokyo since their stay was short. Meiji Shrine was relatively uncrowded because it was morning, so we took our time exploring it. When they said they wanted to eat soba, I introduced them to my favorite soba restaurant. They were delighted, saying it was their first time trying it. The Sanja Festival in Asakusa was crowded, but they were excited to see a Japanese festival for the first time. Next, they said they wanted to go somewhere quiet, so I guided them to Rikugien Garden, and they were very satisfied. Before heading to Ebisu, I also showed them the Shibuya Crossing and the Hachiko statue.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainEbisu～Harajuku160JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku～Nezu210JPY
    Section 3TrainNezu～Asakusa210JPY
    Section 4TrainAsakusa～Komagome380JPY
    Section 5TrainKomagome～Ebisu260JPY
    Total1,220JPY

    Tour Report by Mitch

    I am certified as a Top Guide by the JGA.
    Drawing on my past experience as a guide, where I have consistently received positive feedback from guests, I will focus on the following key points in my guiding:
    Explain the historical transition from Edo to Tokyo through engaging episodes and stories.
    Offer a cross-cultural perspective on why concepts such as honji suijaku (the idea of local deities being manifestations of Buddhist figures), as seen at places like Meiji Shrine, represent a worldview that Japan can be proud of.
    Provide warm and humorous interaction, incorporating the spirit of hospitality I learned while studying at Columbia University in the United States.
    Use my experience working at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government to explain Tokyo’s present-day situation with the support of statistical data.

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    Jul 7, 2026
    Ruppa_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great guide and first experience in Tokyo
    It was our first time…

    Jun 8, 2026
    TAMARA_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience!
    Great experience, learning a lot. Get to see a lots…

    May 7, 2026
    Marianela25
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great customized Itinerary with Mitch!
    Mitch was a fantastic tour guide. He…

    Apr 29, 2026
    163neilh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Asakusa Sensouji Temple, Imperial Palace & Meiji Shrine.
    We had a fantastic…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Gion

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Gion

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Kyoto Station meet
    • 13:20 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 14:30 Sanjusangendo
    • 16:00 Snack break
    • 16:45 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 18:00 Gion
    • 18:40 Tour ends

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Afternoon Tour of Eastern Kyoto? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting Japan for the first time. Since the tour was scheduled for the afternoon, I focused mainly on the eastern part of Kyoto, based on the opening hours of the sites and the guests' wishes. Some of the guests were very interested in Japan today, and our conversation became quite in-depth. I normally do not bring up politics or religion, but on today's tour our discussion extended even to those topics. As they had also hoped to visit the bamboo grove in Arashiyama, I guided them instead to the bamboo grove within Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari～Shichijo180JPY
    Section 3OtherSanjusangendo～Kiyomizu-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total560JPY

    Tour Report by Mizu

    Hello, my name is Mizuho Yoshikawa. Please call me Mizu and my name means rice and water in Japanese.
    I’ve been a tour guide more than 200 times since the spring of 2023 in Kobe, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Wakayama and Kochi. My tour is always original and new, depending on the guest’s preferences, encounters, seasons and weather.
    In Kyoto, one of my tours is to climb Mt. Kurama. It is about 1 hour from the city of Kyoto by train, it is a very quiet and beautiful mountain.
    In Osaka, which is called the kitchen of Japan, I am also in charge of food tour.
    In Nara, in addition to the Great Budda Hall, I guide guests to the temple with a really great view and Japanese wine, sake tasting.
    Every city has a unique charming point.
    The motto of my guiding is ” Ichigo Ichie” Once in a lifetime or seize the day. I learn this concept that the moment will never be the same again through tea ceremonies.
    I like a tea ceremony that is part of the traditional Japanese culture and embodies the spirit of “omotenashi” or hospitality. Through the tea ceremony, we can feel the spirit of “omotenashi” that has been passed down to us from ancient times.
    And I like to travel abroad and domestically, and I have been to 13 overseas countries and most of the prefectures in Japan. Traveling always gives me a new perspective, which is exciting and thrilling. Nowadays, we can learn a lot from the Internet, but traveling teaches us that it is important to have direct experience. When I travel, I feel that my five senses are infinitely expanded, and through my tour, I help all guests to have the same feeling in Japan.
    I was born and raised in Kanagawa Prefecture, which is next to Tokyo Prefecture in eastern Japan. When I was little, I could see Mount Fuji from my backyard. There was also a rice field nearby, and I grew up listening to the croaking of frogs. Listening to the frogs and seeing the mountains made me feel very calm.
    I moved to the city of Kobe, one of the Kansai areas in western Japan, which includes Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and so on. I’m not from the Kansai area of western Japan, but I think that makes me sensitive to the differences between that area and the Kanto area, Tokyo, where I grew up.
    Speaking of Kobe, you might be thinking of Kobe beef. Of course you do. There are also other sake breweries in Nada in Kobe. You can also go from Kobe city to Himeji Castle, also known as the White Egret Castle, which was the first in Japan to be listed as a World Heritage Site in 1993.
    Let’s meet and enjoy Japan together!

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    Jul 27, 2026
    OscarBrisenoJr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Awesome tour of Kyoto
    Seeing the temples and shrines…

    Jul 21, 2026
    MarcL3556
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful and Memorable Tour of Osaka with Mizu…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Ranvt
    Local tour kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    I had a great experience on this local…

    Jun 11, 2026
    MamaL843
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing Kyoto with Mizu
    Mizu-San gave us an AMAZING tour of Kyoto.…