Category: Uncategorized

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Peace Memorial Museum & Miyajima

    Hiroshima in One Day: Peace Memorial Museum & Miyajima

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 14:30 Meet at Itsukaichi Station, travel from Itsukaichi to the Peace Memorial Museum by JR and bus
    • 15:00 Peace Memorial Museum
    • 16:30 Peace Park → Hypocenter → Atomic Bomb Dome
    • 17:15 Travel from the Atomic Bomb Dome to Miyajima
    • 18:15 Miyajima
    • 19:15 Take out okonomiyaki at Miyajimaguchi
    • 20:00 Disband at Itsukaichi Station

    Title: What Is a Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Tour Like from a Cruise Port? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Because the start time was late, I had confirmed the day before that we would meet a little earlier, but the ship arrived late, and with a low tide only one of the usual two exits was available, so we did not reach the station until around 14:30. Although we had discussed and decided the itinerary in advance, it had been arranged quite a while ago. After listening to the guide on the ship, the guests said they still wanted to visit Miyajima, and to go after the Peace Memorial Museum, so the entire plan I had prepared was reset. At the museum, everyone viewed the exhibits at their own pace. Some misunderstood and went ahead to the exit, while others waited behind, so we had trouble regrouping and spent a little time searching and waiting. On the other hand, this meant we no longer had time to make it to Itsukushima Shrine, so instead the guests were able to take their time seeing the Peace Park, the A-Bomb Dome, and the hypocenter. It seemed they were tired, as this was the third day of continuous sightseeing in Kyoto and Osaka by cruise. At Miyajima, some of the guests waited at the ferry terminal while others went to see the torii gate, so I visited the torii and viewed Itsukushima Shrine from the outside with part of the group. The shrine and shops were closed, but the tide happened to be high and the illuminated torii gate was beautiful. There was no time to sit down and eat okonomiyaki, so we got it as takeout, made it in time for the shuttle bus, and parted ways at Itsukaichi Station. We were limited by the cruise schedule and could not take our time, but I believe the guests enjoyed themselves.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainItsukaichi～Nishi-Hiroshima200JPY
    Section 2BusNishi-Hiroshima～Peace Memorial Museum220JPY
    Section 3TrainGenbaku Dome-mae～Hiroden Nishi-Hiroshima220JPY
    Section 4TrainNishi-Hiroshima～Miyajimaguchi330JPY
    Section 5TrainMiyajimaguchi～Itsukaichi200JPY
    Total1,170JPY

    Tour Report by Kazumi

    Hi, I’m Kazumi, National Government licensed guide interpreter.
    I have lived in Hiroshima over 10 years and know how to use local transportation around Hiroshima city.
    Hiroshima was the first city in the world where an atomic bomb was used against humans. Why don’t you come to Hiroshima to learn about the tragedy of the atomic bombing and think about peace?
    Not only the tragedy of the atomic bombing, I want to show you the beautiful scenery of Hiroshima. At Shukkeien, wonderful seasonal trees and flowers are in bloom, and the harmony with the beauty of the Japanese garden is wonderful!
    Furthermore, Miyajima is worth visiting with its beautiful scenery of Torii-gate and Itsukushima shrine.
    Don’t miss the delicious local food! Okonomiyaki is Hiroshima’s local food, it’s savory pancake, is typically made of cabbage, egg, and flour, but you can also put anything you like, such as pork and seafood. Hiroshima has a lot of delicious food not only Okonomiyaki for you to choose.
    I want you to have wonderful time and have fun while staying in Hiroshima!
    Let’s have fun at Hiroshima!!

    Request Booking

    Jun 5, 2024
    W6552IGpaolaa
    Miyajima and Hiroshima: an unforgettable day with our guide, Kazumi
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed…

  • Wakayama in One Day: Dorohatcho & Irokawa Shrine

    Wakayama in One Day: Dorohatcho & Irokawa Shrine

    Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage in 1 Day by Car with Licensed Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:50 　　　Gather / Wataze Onsen Sasayuri (Kawayu Onsen. Changed from Fujiya)
    • 9:35 – 10:15 Dorohatcho
    • 11:05 – 11:20 Hayatama Taisha
    • 11:50 – 12:05 Fudarakusanji Temple
    • 12:15 – 13:10 Lunch / Katsuura Town　Hinodemaru
    • 13:25 – 13:45 Daimonzaka
    • 13:55 – 14:25 Seigantoji Temple / Nachi Taisha
    • 14:40 – 11:20 Nachi Falls
    • 15:20 – 15:45 Amidaji Temple
    • 16:10 – 16:25 Irokawa Shrine
    • 16:55 　　　Disband / Katsuura Port / Hotel　Ferry

    Title: What Is a Private Kumano Kodo and Nachi Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Two evenings before the tour, the guests contacted me about a change of hotel, so I immediately replied to confirm it was fine and also notified the driver's company. The guests' desired itinerary (places they wished to visit) included Fudarakusanji Temple, Nachi Taisha Shrine, Seiganto-ji Temple, the Three-Storied Pagoda, the waterfall viewing platform, and Amidaji Temple, with lunch planned around Nachi Falls. Since this itinerary made for a tour of about five hours, and it already included visits to Dorohatcho, Hayatama Taisha Shrine, and Amidaji Temple, I suggested a slight detour to enjoy the scenery of the Irokawa village and to visit Irokawa Shrine. I also proposed having fresh tuna cuisine near Katsuura Port for lunch. At Dorohatcho, we gave the resident "tourism ambassador" cat a gift of dried bonito flakes and took a commemorative photo. I explained that this is the point where the borders of Nara, Wakayama, and Mie Prefectures meet, and that upstream you can enjoy rafting down the Kitayama River. At the Yamabiko suspension bridge, 350 meters upstream, the guests experienced seeing the flood level of the 2011 disaster and threw urajiro ferns like gliders. While driving, we could see from the car window the river descent of the Kumano River, sometimes called the "Kumano Kodo of the river." We visited Hayatama Taisha Shrine, and then Fudarakusanji Temple. For lunch at a restaurant, the guests enjoyed an extra-large dish of fresh tuna. We moved toward the Nachisan area, where the guests walked the upper part of Daimonzaka from the second stage in the middle. We drove to the top and visited Seiganto-ji Temple and Nachi Taisha Shrine. The Daimon gate and the Three-Storied Pagoda were covered for restoration work, so we had to skip them. We viewed Nachi Falls. It was decided that the waterfall viewing platform was not necessary, so we omitted it. From the last bus stop, we proceeded 6 km along a forest road to reach Amidaji Temple. Along the way, the drive was full of variety, with mist rolling in and views of the town of Katsuura. (Although the driver seemed a little hesitant,) the guests were not prone to car sickness, and since it is a road used by a community bus, I chose the route back to Katsuura via the Irokawa village. On the way, two wild deer were walking along the road. In the Irokawa village, we were able to take in the scenery of rice paddies where the harvested rice was being sun-dried, and terraced fields where the rice still stood unharvested. The red spider lilies were also in full bloom. We could also see fields of the local specialty "Irokawa tea." At the center of this area, we visited Irokawa Shrine, which looks across to a sheer vertical cliff on the opposite bank, and then headed for Katsuura Port.

    Click here for more details: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage in 1 Day by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Hira

    I grew up in the mountain village. I learned many things from my family, especially my grandmother. I can give you many interesting experiences in the wild nature. We eat wild strawberries or “Sukanpo ” the edible grass, fly ferns or cross a suspension bridge.
    I walked all of Kumano Kodo, Koyasan pilgrimage roads and other ancient highways, total length is more than 600km ( 400 miles).
    I want you to show the interesting spots beyond the guide book. Kii mountain range has old history as well as beautiful land scapes. I’ll take you the excellent places you can do Facebook bragging.
    My experiences for guiding foreigners are, town of Koyasan, pilgrimage road to Koyasan, Kumano Kodo Nakahechi, hot springs, Shingu city and Nachi Katsuura town, Kushimoto area, Shirahama area so on.
    I wish to meet you soon!

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    May 12, 2025
    andrewgT8079NS
    Wonderful guide and magical scenery and locations.
    Tripadvisor review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip with Government Licensed Guide
    Wonderful, interesting…

    Apr 29, 2025
    farmahel
    A truly magnificent journey through the Kumano Kodo with a wonderfully kind Hira
    Tripadvisor review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip…

    Apr 27, 2025
    Sofia_N
    Had a great time. Guide…
    Viator review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip with Government Licensed Guide
    Had a great time.…

    Mar 23, 2025
    G
    GoPlaces681850
    Wonderful time with a local.
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Hira,…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • １．８：００ Meet at Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi
    • ２．８：４０ Asakusa Sensoji Temple and Nakamise
    • ３．１０：００ Yanaka and Nezu Shrine
    • ４．１１：３０ Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • ５．１３：００ Meiji Shrine
    • ６．１４：００ Dismissal at Ramen Santouka

    What Is a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Yanaka, and Meiji Shrine This time the tour started early in the morning, and I confirmed whether it was truly acceptable to have lunch after 2:00 pm following the tour. The guests powered through a packed itinerary covering classic highlights such as Asakusa, Yanaka, the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, and Meiji Shrine. At the end, I took them to a ramen shop and helped them place their order before we parted ways. Their strong interest in history was clearly influenced by the drama Shogun. Since the drama centers on the Sengoku period, they had questions about the history before and after that era. Starting with an explanation of the "Kidai Shoran" scroll displayed at Nihonbashi, I provided historical commentary at various points, covering the span from the beginning of Japan's recorded history, through the peace of the early modern period, to the Western-style modernization that followed the opening of the country.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOtemachi～Asakusa600JPY
    Section 2Free PassNezu～Otemachi0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTakebashi～Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Total600JPY

    Tour Report by Kei

    Born and raised in Tokyo a half-century ago, I have lived in Tokyo all my life except for one year in the UK to study for a master’s course. I am a Tokyo Native with viewpoints based on broader local knowledge than anyone else. I have specialised in Japanese history, culture, and architecture since I was an architect.
    Also, I am a foodie emphasising Japanese traditional & healthy foods. I’ve been to many countries around the world, such as the US, Central America, Europe, and Asia. As such, I believe I can anticipate the needs of foreign tourists in Japan.

    Despite my experience as a guide for just two years, we can make the best out of our tour by travelling from your hotel to spots time-efficiently with my local knowledge, while accommodating your unexpected requests during the tour.
    My strong area includes Yanesen; Old Temples in a Quaint Village, Kamakura, Asakusa Sensoji, Meiji Shrine and Imperial Palace. All give you peace of mind.

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    Oct 22, 2025
    I5562SWphilipk
    Great intro to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kei was a genial and knowledgeable host, who…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Gary H
    Great tour of Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We loved our tour! Our guide was…

    Oct 5, 2025
    C
    Cindy_S
    Had one day in Tokyo and…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Had one day in Tokyo…

    Sep 15, 2025
    chrishN2970OC
    A highly enjoyable tour of Tokyo with knowledgeable local guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Himeji Castle & Kokoen Garden

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Himeji Castle & Kokoen Garden

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:40 Meet at Himeji Station North Exit
    • 12:00 Arrive at Himeji Castle, sightseeing
    • 14:20 Lunch in front of Himeji Castle
    • 14:50 Stroll through Kokoen Garden
    • 15:05 Leave Kokoen Garden and head to Himeji Station
    • 15:40 In front of Himeji Station, disband

    What Is a Private Day Trip from Tokyo to Himeji Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Asia. They came to Himeji as a day trip from Tokyo and were scheduled to return home the following day. Some of the guests eagerly took photos of many spots, while others asked many questions about the Edo period and the Meiji Restoration. After leaving the castle, the guests wanted to eat karaage bento, so we bought lunch boxes in front of the castle, ate, and took a break. Afterward we strolled through Koko-en Garden. At first the guests were not particularly interested in the garden, but once inside Koko-en they were moved by the scenery of the plants, waterfalls, and ponds, and took many photos. Finally, as we walked toward the station, we had a lively conversation about the different cultures and customs of Japan and their home country, and we said a fond farewell at the station.

    Click here for more details: Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Rie

    Hello, I’m your tour guide, Rie Ito. Please call me Rie. I have been living in Himeji for 40 years. I would like to show you around our beautiful city. Himeji is very famous for its several sightseeing places. Especially, as the most recommended place, we boast Himeji Castle, the first World Heritage Site of Japan. When you see this message, please contact me through WhatsApp. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask me before the tour. I am sure you will enjoy this local city of Japan with me! I’m looking forward to seeing you. Thank you.

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    Apr 25, 2026
    Alix_M
    Viator review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour of Himeji castle
    Fantastic tour of the beautiful Himeji castle!…

    Oct 3, 2025
    P
    Peggy_M
    Rie is an excellent guide with a lot of knowledge to share
    Viator review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed…

    Aug 6, 2025
    OMAR_A
    Excellente visite avec guide dynamique
    Viator review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour avec une guide compétente et…

    Apr 30, 2025
    JandK14
    A perfect day in Himeji: We saw the cherry blossoms at their peak and had Rie as our guide!
    Tripadvisor review:…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 9:00 Meet up @ Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo (3-4-7 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 9:30 Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
    • 3) 11:00 Omotesando → Harajuku Takeshita Street & Lunch @ PEANUTS CAFE (1-14-30 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)
    • 4) 13:40 Kappabashi Shopping Street
    • 5) 14:20 Asakusa <Rokku Street, Hoppy Street, Denboin Street, Nakamise Street, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, Culture and Tourism Information Center>
    • 6) 15:00 Disperse @ Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station

    What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Day Tour of Shinjuku Gyoen, Harajuku, and Asakusa? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private one-day tour of Tokyo for guests visiting from North America. In advance, the guests had requested Shinjuku Gyoen, Harajuku, and Asakusa (Senso-ji Temple and Asakusa Shrine). Because the guide had a throat problem, the guide wore a mask throughout the tour after receiving the guests' permission. The guests had also emailed a request to collect their pre-booked Shinkansen tickets and to learn where the tickets could be issued, so the guide first showed them the location of the ticket office at the south exit of Shinjuku Station. Shinjuku Gyoen was only a few minutes' walk from there, but since the guests already had SUICA and PASMO cards, they used a subway station ticket machine to top up their cards, and then took the subway to the station nearest Shinjuku Gyoen. At Shinjuku Gyoen, the guide focused the tour on the Japanese garden. Along Omotesando and Harajuku's Takeshita Street, the guests bought long french fries. Since restaurants everywhere are crowded during Sunday lunchtime, rather than moving around, the guests had a light meal at a peanut cafe in Harajuku (the guide politely declined to join them at the table due to not feeling well, and waited outside). Before Asakusa, the guide showed the guests Kappabashi Kitchen Town, and then walked on foot through the various shopping streets of Asakusa, taking photos along the way, and guided them through Senso-ji Temple and Asakusa Shrine. Finally, the guests took in a view of all of Asakusa from the 8th floor of the culture and tourism information center. The guide then took them to Asakusa Station, sent them an email confirming how to return to their hotel and the places visited that day, and the tour concluded. The guests were very curious about Japanese history and culture.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Marunouchi Line Shinjuku Station～Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line Shinjuku-sanchome Station600JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Shinjuku-sanchome Station～Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Meiji-jingumae Station～Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Tawaramachi Station0JPY
    Total600JPY

    Tour Report by Tachi

    Hi! I’m a local guide in Tokyo and have been working as a licensed tour guide for almost 10 years. I love helping guests discover the “real Japan” beyond the guidebooks. I enjoy showing guests both famous sights and places that many tourists miss. My tours are based on your interests and can include not only famous sightseeing spots, but also local neighborhoods, culture, history, and everyday life in Japan. I also help guests enjoy Japanese cultural activities and make communication easier. If you’d like vegan or gluten-free meals, let me help you find suitable restaurants in Tokyo. If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, please feel free to let me know in advance. I look forward to showing you around Tokyo!

    Request Booking

    Jun 19, 2026
    Daniel_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 would do again!
    Our guide, Tachi was incredibly accommodating, friendly, and…

    May 24, 2026
    Meander63637687943
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Japanese Garden Lover’s Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour guide Tachi is the best!
    A most enjoyable and…

    May 19, 2026
    Jai_K
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    I would definitely…
    I would definitely recommend this tour. Our guide Tachi…

    May 5, 2026
    Gary33556
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour of the highlights of Tokyo
    Tachi was our guide. What…

  • Sapporo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Sapporo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Sapporo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet up @Hotel
    • 2. 9:08 Odori Park　
    • 3. 9:20 Nijo Market
    • 4. 9:35 Tanukikoji
    • 5. 10:20 Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium
    • 6. 11:45 Hokkaido Shrine
    • 7. 12:50 Lunch @Le Trois (Odori Park)
    • 8. 13:55 Sapporo Beer Museum
    • 9. 14:50 Sapporo Clock Tower
    • 10. Dismissal @Sapporo Clock Tower

    Title: What Is a Private Sapporo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather was clear, and the view from the observation deck at the Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium was superb. Since it was the guests' first visit to Hokkaido, I began by explaining the differences between Hokkaido and other historic cities such as Kyoto and Nara, and then described the unique historical background of Hokkaido. The guests were very active, so we were able to walk around many spots swiftly and energetically. While providing information related to each location we visited, we enjoyed bright and pleasant conversation throughout. I had initially considered taking the guests to the Autumn Fest held at Odori Park, but they had already attended this large Sapporo event the previous day and had greatly enjoyed the delicious food of Hokkaido.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOdori Park Station～Maruyama Koen Station210JPY
    Section 2BusMaruyama Koen Bus Terminal～Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium210JPY
    Section 3BusOkurayama Ski Jump Stadium～Maruyama Koen Station Bus Terminal210JPY
    Section 4SubwayMaruyama Koen Station～Odori Park Station210JPY
    Total840JPY

    Tour Report by Tom

    I was born and raised in Hokkaido and have been a resident of Sapporo for over 30 years. I have been actively involved in guiding tourists around the scenic spots of Hokkaido, primarily focusing on Sapporo. Even before becoming a licensed interpreter guide, I engaged in volunteer activities to assist and guide foreigners, providing me with valuable opportunities to delve into the rich culture and history of Hokkaido.
    Hokkaido is renowned for its exceptional culinary scene, and I am well-versed in gourmet information. I believe I can offer an excellent experience by guiding individuals through the highly acclaimed food experiences that Hokkaido has to offer.

    Request Booking

    Apr 22, 2026
    Agent PT A
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Super Sapporo in April with Tom.
    Tom was kind…

    Feb 10, 2026
    Alan_C
    Very enjoyable and well…
    Viator review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Very enjoyable and well worth it. Our…

    Sep 24, 2025
    saratW9816BN
    Tour up to the Moiwa mountain and lots more
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We’ve had…

    Sep 2, 2025
    roxannerW1499FK
    Great experience!
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful city tour with Tom in…

  • Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Nanzen-ji Temple

    Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Nanzen-ji Temple

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet Hyatt Place Kyoto
    • 09:40 to 10:40 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 11:00 to 11:50 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 12:30 to 13:30 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 14:00 to 14:40 Nanzen-ji Temple
    • 15:00 Dismissal 　 Hyatt Place Kyoto

    What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. They had explored the sightseeing spots around Sagano and Arashiyama the previous day, so I arranged a plan to stroll through other attractions today. I took photos of the group at each spot, and they were very pleased. Since the guests live in a region I have visited several times myself, our conversation flowed easily. Explaining the sightseeing spots is important, but I felt that enjoying friendly conversation with the guests is also an essential element in making them happy.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Haru

    Personal data
    Born in : May 1st, 1957
    Hobby : Visiting scenic places,
    historic spots, Japanese
    gardens and old townscape
    Former career : Worked for electric
    company and engaged in
    international sales for
    about 40 years.
    Travel history in the former career :
    Visited about 20 countries about 200 times

    Career as guide interpreter
    Acquisition of guide license : 2016
    Career of guide : 8 years
    Genre of my specialty :
    Japanese historic structures such as
    temple, shrine, castle and garden.
    Area of guide : Kyoto, Nara, Osaka &
    Himeji

    Let’s enjoy Japan with me !!

    Request Booking

    Dec 30, 2024
    shannono1010
    Haru is a Rock Star
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a fantastic guide. He explained…

    Dec 29, 2024
    Ali O
    Amazing!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was amazing on our tour of Nara. He was…

    Dec 4, 2024
    D5658ZEjohnr
    Trip to some of the Kyoto sites on our visit to Japan.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with…

    Dec 3, 2024
    Charlie_Jane00
    Kyoto Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a well organised and very informative guide. He…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:00 Meet up ＠Four Seasons Tokyo
    • 2. 09:05 By Tokyo Metro from Otemachi to Higashi-Ginza
    • 3. 09:15 ＠Kabuki-za Theatre
    • 4. 09:35 ＠Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 5. 10:40 Walk to Shimbashi
    • 6. 11: 00 By Yurikamome to Odaiba
    • 7. 11:25 ＠Odaiba (Seaside Park, Decks Tokyo Beach)
    • 8. 12:00 Lunch ＠Tokyo Ramen Street
    • 9. 13:00 By Yurikamome to Takeshiba
    • 10.13:30 ＠Zojoji Temple
    • 11. 14:00 ＠Tokyo Tower Observation Deck
    • 12. 15:00　Walk to Kamiyacho, then by subway to Otemachi
    • 13. 15:30　Dismissal ＠Four Seasons Tokyo

    Tokyo The guests were a family visiting from North America. Some members were scheduled to arrive later and appeared to join afterward. I had received an email in advance and had discussed the itinerary beforehand, so the tour proceeded smoothly on the day. As a measure against the heat, I bought ice cream for the guests and gave them folding fans as souvenirs, which they were very pleased with. I later received a warm thank-you message via a messaging app, so I believe they were satisfied with the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOtemachi～Higashi-Ginza178JPY
    Section 2TrainShimbashi～Odaiba Seaside Park325JPY
    Section 3TrainDaiba～Takeshiba325JPY
    Section 4TrainKamiyacho～Otemachi178JPY
    Total1,006JPY

    Tour Report by May

    Hi, I’m May, your guide in Tokyo. Welcome to Japan!
    I have been grown up in Tokyo and working here for more than 45 years, so I’m sure I can share the best attraction of Tokyo with you, such as food, cultural and historic sites, sub-culture, shopping, and nightlife.
    Besides the tour guide, I have been working for a travel agent for more than 30 years, I can advise you the travel plan of not only in Tokyo but all over Japan.
    I had lots of guests from all over the world here in Tokyo, and most of them gave me great and wonderful review.
    I’m sure I can meet all of your demand and expectations, and am ready to welcome you to Japan with the best “Omotenashi” mind, or hospitality.

    Request Booking

    Jul 16, 2026
    fernandorM8865OM
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Fuji Five Lakes Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    Memorable day
    We had a great time. Our guide Meiji…

    Jul 11, 2026
    912courtneyp
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great family guide
    May was a great tour guide.…

    Jun 27, 2026
    LPMarchica
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 Recommend
    We had an incredible time exploring Tokyo with our guide,…

    Jun 11, 2026
    Alisha_W
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  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet up@Celestine Kyoto Gion
    • 2. 9:20 @Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 3. 11:00 @Arashiyama (Bamboo Grove・Tenryu-ji Temple)
    • 4.12:10 Lunch@Gontaro Kinkaku-ji Branch
    • 5. 13:00 @Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 6. 14:15 @Nintendo Kyoto
    • 7. 15:00 Disband@Celestine Kyoto Gion

    Because we had communicated closely in advance, I had made the restaurant reservation according to the guests' wishes and had explained the itinerary beforehand. On the way from Fushimi Inari Taisha to Arashiyama, we passed by the Nintendo building, so I explained about Nintendo, and it turned out that the guests had often played Super Mario. Since they said they wanted to try matcha soft serve ice cream, we enjoyed it together at my personal favorite shop. After Kinkaku-ji, we had a little time, so we decided to visit Nintendo Kyoto in the department store. The guests shopped and seemed to be having a wonderful time, and I was a bit anxious about whether we could get back to the Hotel by 15:00, but thanks to the driver's efforts, we managed to make it in time.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by YUKA

    Hi! My name is YUKA. I’ve got the government license in 2018 and joined a half year traning to do the guide. But a half year later I started my carreer, Covid came. I should have given up guiding. During the Covid, I’ve read many books and made my own materials to explain Japanese culture, history, etc. I love guiding because the guests expand my horizon all the time and let me know their own country and culture, etc. It is really important for us all to know each other and respect each other to make this world peace. Thank you for coming to Japan! Let’s enjoy Japan together!

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  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Shitennoji Temple

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Shitennoji Temple

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    September, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet @ Tempozan Passenger Terminal
    • 09:45 @ Osaka Castle (exterior only)
    • 11:00 @ Shitennoji Temple
    • 12:00 @ Shinsekai, Tsutenkaku (exterior only)
    • 12;45 @ Dotonbori
    • 13:00 Dismissal @ Dotonbori

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Osaka Castle and Tennoji Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests had visited Japan several times before, and some Japanese was spoken by one of them. From the outset, the guests understood that this would be a demanding itinerary, and they were happy to view Osaka Castle, Shitennoji Temple, and Tsutenkaku from the outside only, so I sensed that the main purpose was to visit and take photographs. The pace was somewhat slow. Rather than asking about each specific spot, the guests asked more general questions about Japan, including questions about religion and culture. At Osaka Castle, they purchased souvenirs at the adjacent "Miraiza" facility. They seemed quite concerned about whether the tour might run over the scheduled time. Since they planned to have a light meal at the final spot, I explained the route back and then we parted ways. The guests mentioned that the distances and travel times between spots listed on their own map were quite different from reality. Regarding this point, I had already explained during our prior communication that the required times could differ considerably from the guests' expectations versus the actual situation.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOsaka Port～Morinomiya290JPY
    Section 2TrainMorinomiya～Tennoji170JPY
    Section 3SubwayTennoji～Dobutsuen-mae190JPY
    Section 4SubwayDobutsuen-mae～Nippombashi190JPY
    Total840JPY

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

    This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
    I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
    real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
    if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

    Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
    that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
    and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
    foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
    Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
    explanation for these three foods.

    1) Tako-yaki
    Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
    octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
    2) Okonomi-yaki
    This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
    Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
    3) Kushi-katsu
    Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
    ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

    Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
    that you like them very much.

    I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
    and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
    great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

    Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
    Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
    Yama

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