Category: Uncategorized

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Shinsekai

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Shinsekai

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet @ Hotel Granvia Osaka
    • 10:15 @ Osaka Castle (exterior only)
    • 11:45 @ Sumiyoshi Taisha
    • 13:30 @ Shinsekai
    • 13:45 Dismissal @ Shinsekai

    What Is a Private Osaka Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Sumiyoshi Taisha and Shinsekai The guests were visiting Japan as part of a trip that also included other parts of Asia, and everything went smoothly. One of the guests understood some Japanese and had a great deal of knowledge about Japan. Both were highly engaged, asking detailed questions and taking many photographs. At Sumiyoshi Taisha they offered prayers, picked up the popular small stones for the "Go-Dai-Riki" charm, and purchased amulet pouches. Both also drew omikuji fortunes; one drew "good fortune," while the other drew "bad fortune." When I mentioned that this was the first time I had seen "bad fortune" drawn here, and that it might actually be a sign of good luck since things could only improve from there, the guest was reassured and said with a smile that they would keep it carefully as a charm. We parted ways upon arriving in Shinsekai. Since one of the guests was a fan of Japanese anime, we briefly visited the character goods sections at a department store in Shinsaibashi, and they said they planned to return the next day.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOsaka~Morinomiya170JPY
    Section 2SubwayMorinomiya~Namba240JPY
    Section 3TrainNamba~Sumiyoshi Taisha240JPY
    Section 4TrainSumiyoshi Taisha~Shin-Imamiya240JPY
    Total890JPY

    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

    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Diane_B
    Viator review: Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Yama was amazing!!
    Our tour guide…

    Jul 4, 2026
    Navigator661725
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful time!
    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…

  • Nara Day Trip from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Nara Day Trip from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:45 Meet up @Osaka Marriott
    • 2. 11:00 @Himuro Shrine
    • 3. 11:30 @Todai-ji Temple
    • 4. 12:30 @Nigatsu-do Hall
    • 5. 13:00 @Nara Park
    • 6. 14:00 Lunch @Hiraso
    • 7. 15:00 @Nigiwai-no-ie
    • 8. 15:45 Shopping at JR Nara Station
    • 9. 17:00 Disband @Osaka Marriott

    What Is a Private Nara Day Tour Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a cheerful group who laughed a lot and made the day very enjoyable. They had a sharp sense of observation, noting how young men in Japan seem to be kept in line by their partners, and they shared that in their home region there is an expression describing this as being pressed down under a thumb. Since the booking had been made through a travel agency, I simply followed their wishes for lunch and took them to a persimmon-leaf sushi restaurant I personally consider the best. They were delighted, saying, "Without you, we could never have come to such a wonderful place." Because of the recent intense heat and a forecast of possible thunderstorms in the evening, I guided them through the main highlights early in the day. I included several air-conditioned spots where they could rest for free, and we took frequent hydration breaks. We ended a little earlier than planned, but on the train home they seemed relieved, saying, "This is our limit. It was a truly wonderful day."

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTennoji~Nara510JPY
    Section 2BusJR Nara Station~In front of Himuro Shrine250JPY
    Section 3TrainNara~Tennoji510JPY
    Total1,270JPY

    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!

    Jul 25, 2026
    Ann W
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Early Morning Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    One of the highlights of my trip, perfect for solo…

    Jul 14, 2026
    Elizabeth W
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour, Licensed Guide
    Great tour
    We had a great tour with…

    Jul 11, 2026
    Dianna-fam
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Wonderful Tour, Wonderful Guide!
    My teenage boys and I…

    Jul 1, 2026
    Christian_L
    Viator review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kyoto visite with Yuka : Wow !
    Wow ! Yuka was…

  • Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour

    Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Start at Shimizu Port – Miho no Matsubara – Miho Shrine – Tea Plantation – Yume Terrace – Kunozan Toshogu Shrine – Sunpu Castle Park Momijiyama Garden – Higashi Gomon – Shimizu Port

    What Is a Private Fuji Area Tour Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report The tour was conducted in the height of summer heat and high humidity, even though it was September. Unfortunately, thick clouds covered Mount Fuji, so it was not possible to see the mountain. The guests were very interested in Japanese culture and listened attentively to the explanations, and we were able to share many enjoyable conversations. Although we could not catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji, which was the main goal, it still turned into a rich and rewarding trip, and the guests thanked me at the end by saying, "It was a wonderful journey." It was a truly gratifying tour that reminded me why guiding is so rewarding.

    I have been a guide over ten years. I always make my utmost efforts to make tours enjoyable and memorable for the guests. I always enjoy traveling myself. I have received warm hospitality through my life domestically and internationally. I would like my guests to feel the same hospitality. I would like to entertain tourists from abroad by showing around and explaining about not only the places but also Japanese culture in a friendly way.
    I have been an English teacher all my life. I challenged to get the guide license and am enjoying guiding ever since.
    I especially guide around Mt.Fuji area. Every time I do guiding around Mt.Fuji, I am impressed by the beauty and its overwhelming power. I want my guests to encounter this beautiful and yet powerful mountain of Mt.Fuji.

    May 4, 2026
    Jackim2009
    Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Shizuoka Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Our Day in Shizuoka
    We had a wonderful day in…

    Oct 9, 2025
    Katie_F
    We had a wonderful day…
    Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Shizuoka Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    We had a wonderful day…

    Jul 13, 2025
    H2enjoy
    Cruise Visit to Shimizu Area and Day Tour Visiting Miho no Matsubara
    Tripadvisor review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private…

    May 21, 2025
    Traveler33207354848
    Tea, tour and Mount Fuji
    Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Shizuoka Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Ikuyo customized our tour exactly…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • ① 10:00 Meet at Gion Oyado Kikukei
    • ② 10:10 Introduction to Kyoto's history and briefing at the hotel
    • ③ 10:30 Stroll around Yasaka Shrine and its surroundings
    • ④ 11:00 Kinkaku-ji
    • ⑤ 12:30 Lunch at Nishiki Market ~ Stroll around Sanjo area
    • ⑥ 14:00 Nanzen-ji Temple / Sanmon Gate
    • ⑦ 15:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • ⑧ 16:30 Disband at the hotel

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who had arrived in Kyoto the previous evening from Sendai. It was their first visit to Kyoto, and this course was arranged at their request. It goes without saying, but while the townscape and delicious food of a place are among the highlights of travel, there is also the history of that country and region, and the culture tied to that history. When you explain this and help guests understand the background, the enjoyment of the trip increases dramatically. As with other regions, Kyoto is full of such elements, which makes it enjoyable both for those who see them and for the one who explains them. Through our conversations during this tour, I felt this all the more strongly. No reimbursed expenses.

    Hello, this is Kazu Akiyama, your tour guide. Nice to meet you and welcome to Japan. Thank you for joining me on the tour. Now I am a retired salaried worker, living in Osaka. I have been very much interested in not only learning Japanese history, culture, religion myself, but also talking about them (sometimes going off topics) in English with tourists from all over the world as well. I am so excited being with you as your guide on coming day! I am very much looking forward to you enjoying with me visiting the must-see places and some of the hidden gems. See you soon. Thank you – Kazu Akiyama

    Jul 29, 2026
    James_G
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great guide and very…
    Great guide and very knowledgeable.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    peterhR6472GA
    Kyoto highlights with Kazu.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with Kazu…

    Jul 12, 2026
    cgalvez73
    Fantastic tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our guide in Kyoto was Kazu.…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Winni_H
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Highly recommended when in Kyoto
    Our tour guide…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 9:00 Meet up @MIMARU Tokyo Kinshicho (11-5, Koto-bashi 4-chome, Sumida-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 9:30 Asakusa <Culture and Tourism Center, Nakamise-dori, Senso-ji Temple>
    • 3) 10:40 Akihabara
    • 4) 11:30 Yanaka Shopping Street
    • 5) 12:30 Lunch @Katsuraku (Ueno no Mori Sakura Terrace 3F, 1-54 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo)
    • 6) 13:20 Disband @SAMURAI NINJA MUSEUM TOKYO (8-13, Nishi-Asakusa 1-chome, Taito-ku, Tokyo)

    Title: What's a Family-Friendly Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Akihabara, Yanaka, and Ueno The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. Before the tour, they had let me know they had booked a samurai museum in Asakusa for 13:30 and wished for a family-friendly tour. They had arrived at Narita Airport the previous afternoon and had tried to buy a Suica card, but gave up because many people were waiting in a long line. For today's tour, I recommended a one-day combined pass for the Toei subway and Metro, and we headed to Asakusa. After a quick introduction to the surrounding area from the 8th-floor terrace of the cultural tourism center, I guided them from Kaminarimon through Nakamise Shopping Street. Along the way, they tried some ichigo daifuku. Perhaps because the group included younger members, there were questions such as "How should we behave on the train?", "Should we avoid eating and drinking while walking?", and "Should we take off our hats in the main hall of a temple?". I felt these reflected the guests' wish to be considerate of Japanese customs, so I explained each point simply and advised that there was no need to worry excessively about manners. By the time we reached the main hall of Sensoji Temple, one of the guests seemed a little tired, so I suggested sitting in the shade to rest and rehydrate. They enjoyed some complimentary cold tea, and I proposed changing the rest of the route to Akihabara, judging that heading straight to Yanaka afterward might be tough given the rising temperature and humidity. We did some shopping in an air-conditioned electronics building and then made our way to the Yanaka shopping street. At a Japanese sweets shop on the way, they bought bite-sized treats that the younger members of the group finished within minutes. They loved the narrow alleys and local atmosphere of the Yanaka shopping street. Since they had hoped to have lunch before entering the samurai museum, I guided them to a tonkatsu restaurant in Ueno (one of the guests had wanted a burger place, perhaps having seen an appealing one in Yanaka, but there was none near Ueno). The tonkatsu set menu was highly praised, while some of the group opted for fried chicken and fries and looked very happy. After safely seeing them off at the samurai museum, we parted ways. This was the group's first overseas trip, and I hope they enjoy Osaka as well.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Hanzomon Line Kinshicho Station~Toei Subway Asakusa Line Asakusa Station900JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station~Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Suehirocho Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Suehirocho Station~Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Sendagi Station0JPY
    Section 4TrainJR Yamanote Line Nippori Station~JR Yamanote Line Ueno Station150JPY
    Section 5Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Ueno Station~Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Tawaramachi Station0JPY
    Total1,050JPY

    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!

    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…

  • Tokyo: Toyosu Market & Akasaka-mitsuke Station

    Tokyo: Toyosu Market & Akasaka-mitsuke Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 5:00 Meeting place: Hotel Tokyo
    • 5:00 Hotel Tokyo
    • Hotel Tokyo
    • (Taxi)
    • 5:20 Toyosu Market
    • Toyosu Seafood Wholesale Building
    • (Tuna Auction Tour)
    • Seafood Intermediate Wholesale Building
    • 6:30 Shijo-mae Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • Toyosu Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line)
    • Tsukishima Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 7:00 Arrive Tsukiji Market Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Outer Market
    • Tsukiji Itadori Annex: Breakfast
    • 8:00 Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 8:30 Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • 8:30 Disband: Hotel Tokyo

    Can You Take an Early-Morning Private Tour of Toyosu Market and Tsukiji Outer Market in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. They arrived at Haneda the previous day and took a taxi to their Hotel. They planned to spend some time in Tokyo before traveling on to other destinations in Asia, then returning home. For today, they planned to shop and have dinner in Ginza in the afternoon. They had visited Japan several times before, though their most recent trip had been about ten years earlier. We departed on time at 05:00 in two taxis. We arrived at Toyosu Market at 05:20 and headed to the seafood wholesale building. The guests enthusiastically observed the tuna auction. I explained "the history of Tokyo's fish markets," "the difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market," and "the difference between wholesale markets and intermediate wholesale markets." They asked about topics such as "Where is tuna caught?", "Is all the tuna from around the world sent to Toyosu Market?", "When is the market closed?", and "What types of tuna are there, and which kind is the most expensive?", and I explained each. There was also a question of "How much does a single tuna cost?" From the second-floor public viewing corridor, it was difficult to clearly see the fresh tuna auction taking place below. One comment was, "Next time we would like to apply for the lottery for the special observation deck." After this, we toured the intermediate wholesale building. Questions included "What kind of people come here to buy?" and "Can't we go inside?" We took the Yurikamome and the subway to move to the Tsukiji Outer Market. We slowly walked a full loop through the area. The guests purchased roasted beans, dried abalone, and dried squid as souvenirs. Saying "We would really like to have sushi for breakfast here," we went to a sushi restaurant. After waiting about ten minutes, we were seated at the counter. The guests enjoyed beer and an assortment of nigiri sushi. Saying they wanted to return to the Hotel to rest for a while, I saw them back to their Hotel, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherShijo-mae Station~Toyosu Station189JPY
    Section 2SubwayToyosu Station~Tsukishima Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukishima Station~Tsukiji Market Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji Station~Akasaka-mitsuke Station178JPY
    Total723JPY

    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.

    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…

  • Ishikawa in Half a Day: Nagamachi Samurai District & Oyama Shrine

    Ishikawa in Half a Day: Nagamachi Samurai District & Oyama Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet at hotel
    • 09:32 Nagamachi Samurai District (Kutani ware kiln, Nomura Family Residence, Takada Family Residence, Ashigaru Museum)
    • 10:40 Kanazawa Central Tourist Information Office (break)
    • 11:00 Oyama Shrine (main gate, worship hall, viewing of Shichi-Go-San prayers, Kanaya Shrine, sacred garden)
    • 11:40 Kanazawa Castle Park (Nezumita Gate, Gyokusen-an (break), Hishi Yagura / Gojukken Nagaya / Hashizumemon Tsuzuki Yagura, Ishikawa Gate, conversation with a couple taking commemorative wedding photos)
    • 13:30 Kaga Yuzen Museum Dismissal

    **Title:** What's a Private Kanazawa Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kenrokuen, Oyama Shrine, and Kaga Yuzen The guests were visitors from North America. They had already visited Kenrokuen Garden and the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art the previous day, and wished to add the Kaga Yuzen Kaikan to their new itinerary. When they learned that a Yuzen exhibition was also being held at Seisonkaku, they said they wanted to visit there on their own after the tour, so I showed them the way. A hurricane was occurring in their home region at the time, which worried them greatly, and at Oyama Shrine they put their hands together in prayer and purchased a protective amulet. Despite the intense heat, they walked energetically and viewed the sights, and seemed to be truly enjoying Japanese culture, history, and architecture. I forgot to hand them a review card, but I was glad I could provide overall support.

    Nice to meet you. My name is Emi F., and I am a licensed guide interpreter specializing in English. I was born and have lived and worked in Nagano, where I am especially knowledgeable about the northern, eastern, and central regions of the prefecture. After retiring early from a career in teaching, I began working as a guide interpreter in 2021. Since then, I have had the pleasure of guiding many visitors to some of my favorite places, including Nagano, Matsushiro, Togakushi, Matsumoto, Azumino, Yamanouchi, Obuse, Nozawa-onsen, Suzaka, and Karuizawa, among others. I have a deep appreciation for the diverse foods harvested in Nagano and am committed to providing a flexible and enjoyable experience for my guests. Additionally, upon request, I can also guide you in Kanazawa, Nagoya, Nara, and Kyoto. I look forward to the opportunity to meet you and to share a memorable and enjoyable tour together.

    Mar 21, 2026
    Cengiz_S
    Viator review: Nagano All Must-Sees 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Recommend this tour without any hesitation!
    We’re really enjoyed this…

    Apr 3, 2025
    R
    Robert_C
    Emi was a great guide who…
    Viator review: Nagano All Must-Sees 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Emi was a…

    Jun 8, 2024
    James_M
    Beautiful afternoon with a private tour of Nagano!
    Viator review: Nagano All Must-Sees Half Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We…

  • Hiroshima in Half a Day: Hiroshima Station & Miyajimaguchi Station

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: Hiroshima Station & Miyajimaguchi Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at the Hotel
    •     Take a taxi to Hiroshima Station
    • 8:22 Arrive at Hiroshima Station
    • 8:35 From Hiroshima Station to Miyajimaguchi Station
    • 9:05 Arrive at Miyajimaguchi Station
    •    Take the ferry to Miyajimaguchi
    • 9:37 Arrive at Miyajima
    •     Shrine Daihoin Omotesando
    • 12:30 Disperse at Miyajima

    What Is a Private Tour of Miyajima and Hiroshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private tour for guests visiting from North America. When I explained the history in front of a model of the torii gate, the guests listened very attentively. They also stopped at a shop selling character goods and were especially interested in the works of Hayao Miyazaki. They reacted strongly to a No-Face figure, which made me feel a difference between generations. The guests were also interested in cars, and on the way to Daisho-in Temple, they took photos whenever they spotted an unusual vehicle. They had apparently planned to visit the Mazda Museum, but when I told them that a reservation was required for a tour, they were very disappointed. After the tour, they planned to take the ropeway up Mount Misen, and they were also looking forward to attending the Mando-e and Miyajima Candle Festival held at Daisho-in Temple from 6:00 in the evening. In addition, since they planned to visit the Peace Park and museum the next day, I explained about those places at a coffee shop. One of the guests was studying physics and gave me a detailed explanation of the difference between plutonium and uranium atomic bombs and the principles of their explosions, so I actually learned a great deal from them.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station~Miyajimaguchi Station420JPY
    Total420JPY

    Select a guide: enter the WordPress Guide post ID or Guide ID in the block settings.

    Sep 25, 2025
    pedropM3071GD
    Amazing day trip
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    This was an amazing experience to…

    Jul 25, 2025
    ourtravelingt
    Great personalized tour
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our tour was fabulous and our…

    Jul 13, 2025
    katherinepE2305IO
    Hiroshima Tour 4hr Walking
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was an amazing guide. He…

    Jul 7, 2025
    Preston_H
    Great tour guide!
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was an incredible guide who…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Station & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Station & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:30 Hiroshima Station
    • 12:00 Miyajima
    • 15:30 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 17:30 Hiroshima Station

    Can You Take a Private Guided Tour of Miyajima with Limited Mobility? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. Since one of them had difficulty walking, I made sure to advise using elevators and escalators throughout the day. We were very fortunate today, as we happened to catch one of only two taxis available on Miyajima. This allowed us to fulfill the guests' request to experience the "kaidan-meguri" (walking through the dark underground passage) at Daisho-in Temple. They climbed the small stairs inside the temple with considerable effort, but they seemed very satisfied with the kaidan-meguri experience. Our conversation turned to the Camino de Santiago (Santiago de Compostela) and the 88-temple pilgrimage of Shikoku, and it made me reflect that, in both East and West, pilgrimage may serve as a kind of solace for people in their later years.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station~Miyajimaguchi Station420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi Station~Nishi-Hiroshima Station330JPY
    Section 3BusNishi-Hiroshima Station~Hiroshima Peace Park220JPY
    Section 4TrainGenbaku Dome-mae~Hiroshima Peace Park220JPY
    Total1,190JPY

    Originally, I’m a cycling guide doing cycling tours all over Japan.
    But, already done Hiroshima & Miyajima tour more than 400 times.
    I traveled many countries in my younger days. I traveled Europe, US, China, India, US, Mexico, Peru Australia, NZ, and so on.
    I decided to use this experience to become a guide.
    I’m afraid but no tipping required, because cycling guides are not allowed to have tipping in my association. And you do not need to pay for my lunch, because my lunch is prepared by our group.
    Please do not hesitate to ask me anything, I’ll change the plan according to your requests.
    Thank you for your understanding and please stay connected.

    Jun 1, 2026
    John_W
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    A top day with a top guide
    My wife…

    May 27, 2026
    Annabelle_C
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima in a day
    Yuji was a great communicator…

    May 12, 2026
    satishp656
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    HIROSHIMA HALF DAY TOUR
    Yuji is a warm, knowledgeble…

    May 10, 2026
    StephanieB6076
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Incredible Experience
    We had an incredible experience visiting Hiroshima…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa Station & Kokkai-gijidomae Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa Station & Kokkai-gijidomae Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: Asakusa Shrine
    • Asakusa Asakusa Shrine
    • Sensoji Temple
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 10:00 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Nihombashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 10:30 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace Plaza
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 11:30 Depart Nijubashimae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 12:00 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Break: Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu
    • Takeshita Street
    • 13:00 Depart Harajuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 13:10 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 13:30 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 13:45 Arrive Kokkai-gijidomae Station
    • Dismissal: Kokkai-gijidomae Station

    Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour with a Licensed Guide: Asakusa, the Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya — A Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. They arrived at Narita Airport a few days earlier and took the Narita Express to their accommodation in the city (staying at accommodation in the Oshiage area). Up until the previous day, they had explored various parts of Tokyo (Tokyo Skytree, the Yanaka-Nezu-Sendagi area, Shibuya, Shinjuku, etc.). From the following day, they planned to visit Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Hiroshima, then return to Tokyo before flying home. The tour took place in intense summer heat, so we rested several times along the way. (Their request was that they were interested in Japanese culture and history, and did not need any shopping.) We met in front of Asakusa Shrine and walked around the grounds of Senso-ji Temple. I explained "an overview of Japanese history," "Senso-ji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." There were questions such as "What kind of religion and teachings is Buddhism?" "Do all Japanese people believe in Buddhism?" and "Are there people who believe in religions other than Buddhism?" There was also a question about whether Tokyo had suffered war damage during World War II. After this, we moved to the Imperial Palace. I explained "the history of Japan and the Imperial family," "the Edo period and the Meiji Restoration," and "why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace." There were questions such as "Does the Emperor really live inside this Imperial Palace?" "What is the relationship between the Emperor and the Prime Minister?" "How is the Prime Minister chosen?" and "Who will be the next Emperor?" We then moved to Harajuku. At Meiji Shrine, I explained the difference between Shinto and Buddhism. We took a break at Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu, and they remarked that it was wonderful to find such a green place in the center of the city. After that, we moved to Shibuya, crossed the Scramble Crossing, and took commemorative photos in front of the Hachiko statue. There were questions such as "Is it always this crowded?" and "Why do so many people gather here?" There were also comments such as "The city is so clean. There is no litter on the ground," "The public restrooms are clean and pleasant, completely different from home," and "The subway is clean, quiet, and comfortable, with good air conditioning." There were also comments and questions such as "There are no homeless people to be seen. Back home, the number of homeless people has been increasing rapidly and has become a problem," and "There are no trash cans on the streets. Why is that?" They mentioned that they were heading off to a guided tour inside the National Diet Building after this, so I saw them off at the station near the National Diet Building, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa Station~Otemachi Station178JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijubashimae Station~Meiji-jingumae Station209JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku Station~Shibuya Station146JPY
    Section 4SubwayShibuya Station~Kokkai-gijidomae Station178JPY
    Total711JPY

    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.

    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
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    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
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