Category: Uncategorized

  • Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hotel → Take the bus to Hiroshima Station, retrieve the iPad at the lost and found center
    • 11:00 Depart from Hiroshima Station Shinkansen Exit on the Orange Route to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
    • 11:50 Leave the museum, explain the Cenotaph → Flame of Peace → Peace Axis, then Rest House → Children's Peace Monument → Peace Bell → Peace Clock Tower → Aioi Bridge → Atomic Bomb Dome → Hiroshima Castle Ninomaru → Castle Keep
    • 15:30 Tour ends, the guests headed to Miyajimaguchi via the Hotel (to pick up the luggage left at the front desk) by a taxi that had been reserved in advance.

    What Is a Private Hiroshima Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The day before the tour, the guests contacted me to say they had left an iPad on the Shinkansen. We tried various things, but the lost and found center was already closed, so it could not be retrieved that day. After discussing with the guests, we changed the 9:00 start time to a 10:00 meeting at the Hotel front desk, timed so that we could contact the lost and found center. We started the tour from Hiroshima Station. The iPad was successfully recovered, and the guests were very pleased. Since they seemed tired from the iPad situation, I arranged some time to sit and relax at a rest house. The guests looked at the museum very carefully, so I introduced John Hersey's "HIROSHIMA," and to a member of the group who was familiar with kendama, I shared some history about kendama. One of the guests, who enjoys coffee, asked, "Is there good coffee in Hiroshima?" so I recommended Itsuki Coffee on Miyajima, which they were planning to visit after the tour. They went the next day, seemed very satisfied, and sent me some photos.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusTanakamachi / Hiroshima Electric Railway Bus~Hiroshima Station / Hiroshima Electric Railway Bus240JPY
    Section 2BusHiroshima Station / JR Bus Chugoku~Peace Park (Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum) / JR Bus Chugoku240JPY
    Total480JPY

    I was born in Fukuyama and have lived in Hiroshima most of my life. After graduating from university, I worked for a company for three years before I got married. Since 1991 I have been an instructor of a tutorial school. I also have been studying English and Chinese as a credited auditor at university. I love traveling abroad and have visited more than 20 countries. And I learned that it is an encounter with people while traveling that made my visit unforgettable. So through my own experience, I want to be a supporter for tourists to Hiroshima and help them make their travel special. My favorite places are Peace Park, Miyajima, Hiroshima Castle and Shukkeien Garden. I also recommend green tea from Sera. Actually I know a tea master who grows tea plants without agricultural chemicals and fertilizers. You will find wonders of green tea and learn how to make delicious tea.

    Jun 23, 2026
    Patricia_M
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kazuko was amazing!
    Great tour and amazing tour guide. Can’t…

    Jun 11, 2025
    Edward_T
    Hiroshima more than the A Bomb
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima is a good…

    Jun 8, 2025
    E
    eggtan
    Best short tour of Hiroshima Peace Park
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Booked Private 4…

    May 18, 2025
    B
    Brian_S
    Don’t miss Miyajima!
    Viator review: Miyajima Half-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Kazuko Kuwata, is a delightful…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Imperial Palace East Gardens & Asakusa

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Imperial Palace East Gardens & Asakusa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet up @ Hotel Ginza 6-chome
    • 11:00 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 11:30 Asakusa (Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Okuyama, Hoppy Street, Shin-Nakamise)
    • 12:15 Lunch @ Nyorosuke Tonanya
    • 14:00 Yanaka Ginza ~ Sendagi
    • 15:30 JR Yurakucho Station ~ Mitsukoshi Ginza ~ Higashi-Ginza
    • 16:00 Disband @ Miharabashi Intersection

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Asakusa, and Yanaka The guests were visitors from Oceania. They had arrived at Narita the previous evening and woke up to an earthquake on the morning of the tour. Their plan was to spend a night at Fujikawaguchiko, then travel on to Kyoto, Osaka, and Naoshima. At the Imperial Palace, I explained the history from the Edo period to the Meiji era. Even though it was unfortunately rainy, the Ninomaru Garden was more than enough to charm the guests. In Asakusa, I explained the development of Edo culture and the pros and cons of Japan's period of national isolation, which left the country behind during the Industrial Revolution. We took plenty of time over lunch, and I advised them on whether the trip to Mount Fuji should be canceled with the approaching typhoon, and if so, whether to move on to Kyoto a day earlier or extend their stay in Tokyo. We extended our time visiting Yanaka Ginza, and the guests seemed to enjoy the atmosphere of Yanaka and Sendagi, including the back streets. At JR Yurakucho Station, I showed them how to purchase Shinkansen tickets, guided them through the underground passage to avoid the rain, showed them the location of the Ginza Mitsukoshi, and ended the tour at the Miharabashi intersection in Higashi-Ginza. The guests had been prepared for the rainy season at this time of year, but had not expected a typhoon, and I felt sorry for them.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Ginza~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 2TrainOtemachi (Tokyo)~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 3SubwaySendagi~Hibiya180JPY
    Total540JPY

    Hello! My name is Hideki Maruyama. I was born in Osaka and raised in the Greater Tokyo area. I obtained my National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate in February 2016.
    I spent 23 years working at a leading Japanese automotive company, including 7 years posted overseas. I then worked for a German premium automotive manufacturer for 13 years, followed by 6 years as an advisor to a British energy company. Through these roles at global corporations, I developed and refined key skills such as:
    1. Cross-cultural communication
    2. A deep understanding of business elites and affluent customers
    3. The ability to deliver impactful and impressive presentations in English
    In addition to my regular duties, I often served as an interpreter for top executives during meetings with foreign government officials. I also had opportunities to introduce aspects of Japan—such as our national character and consumer preferences—to leadership teams in both the German and British companies.
    As a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding guests from a wide range of countries especially after the pandemic, including the US, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Ireland, Norway, Sweden, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

    Jun 14, 2026
    tiffany_w
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Phenomenal experiance
    Hideki san was an amazing guide. He was incredibly knowledgable…

    Jun 13, 2026
    Joshua_A
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The Best Guide I Had in Japan
    Hideki was, without question, my…

    May 2, 2026
    Bruce G
    Our guide (Hideki san) was a master. It was a rainy day and he suggested a new plan in anticipation…

    Apr 30, 2026
    johnbD9596UO
    Lovely Private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I had a great…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Market & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Market & Meiji Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:50 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 10:30 Tsukiji Market
    • 11:20 Imperial Palace
    • 12:20 Lunch @ Kaiten Sushi Maguro Ton'ya Megumi Harakado (Harajuku)
    • 13:00 Takeshita Street
    • 13:25 Meiji Shrine
    • 14:15 Disband @ Hotel

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, the Imperial Palace, and Meiji Shrine The guests were a group from North America visiting Japan for the first time. After sightseeing in Tokyo, they planned to travel to Kyoto and Osaka. At Tsukiji, they showed great interest in the many shops of the outer market and the tuna stores at Tsukiji Uogashi. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with interest to historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo shogunate. At Meiji Shrine, the guests seemed impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere, which was very different from Takeshita Street. They also listened with interest to explanations about the differences between shrines and temples. Although it was unfortunately rainy today, I responded exactly as the guests wished, so I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShibuya~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Nijubashimae180JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijubashimae~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku~Shibuya160JPY
    Total760JPY

    I am Seizo Kamiuto, National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English). I was born in Kagoshima City in Kyushu (Southern part of Japan) and grew up there until the graduation from a high school. I came to Tokyo to enter a University in Tokyo and since then, I have lived in Tokyo for more than 40 years and therefore I know Tokyo and its suburbs and Kagoshima City very well. After retiring from an IT company, I have been working as a Guide Interpreter of English since March 2018. I have guided many overseas guests to the popular sightseeing spots in Tokyo, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji area (Kawaguchiko Lake etc.), Hakone, Nikko, Yokohama, Kawagoe and Kagoshima and so on. I have received good reviews from many guests. I can explain the history and the culture of Japan in detail. I look forward to an opportunity to guide you in Japan. Thank you. Seizo Kamiuto

    Sep 27, 2026
    jonaJ5014ZK
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Seizo was a tremendously fabulous…

    Sep 11, 2026
    M7402TTsharonp
    Higly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing tour with Seizi Kaminto.…

    Sep 8, 2026
    OnAir57127583503
    Amazing Experience with Kamakura Day Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    We had an excellent time with Seizo Kamiuto as our…

    Sep 4, 2026
    B2319ZKjoseo
    Pleasant stroll through HISTORY
    Tripadvisor review: Kawagoe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a great time learning about…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • ① 09:00 Meet at Hilton Kyoto
    • ② 09:05 Itinerary confirmation and about the history of Kyoto
    • ③ 09:30 Departure
    • ④ 10:10 Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • ⑤ 11:00 Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • ⑥ 11:50 Stroll through the Bamboo Grove and Nonomiya Shrine
    • ⑦ 12:15 Stroll through Tenryu-ji Temple Garden
    • ⑧ 13:10 Disband at Hotel

    Title: What Is a 4-Hour Private Walking Tour of Kyoto's Sagano Area Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time, coming from North America. Their itinerary included a few days in Tokyo, several days in Osaka and Kyoto, and then a return to Tokyo before heading home. The guests were wonderfully cheerful and talked non-stop wherever we went. It reminded me of the lively chatter at home, and I laughed thinking this must be universal. There was hardly a moment to break into the conversation, and the guests would immediately start joking with each other. Since I lacked the background context and they spoke so rapidly, I often couldn't quite catch what was being said. Yet whenever I firmly stepped in, they listened intently, as if they had been waiting for it. It was a 4-hour course with little time to spare, so it took a while to find my rhythm. In the Sagano area, at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji and Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, there are many old and beautiful Japanese folkloric customs and stories — for example, the 1,200 rakan statues, the Obon festival, the Sento Kuyo thousand-lantern memorial service, and the stone-stacking of Sai-no-Kawara. Today I shared these kinds of stories, and the guests listened quietly and attentively. The Kansai region was hit by heavy rain due to the influence of a typhoon, and all of us, myself included, got thoroughly soaked. By the end, the guests were understandably a little tired and wanted to return to the hotel soon. Since we had agreed in advance to skip lunch, once we finished the planned itinerary we hurried by taxi to the hotel. When I asked what their plans were next, they said they wanted to eat, then have a bath and a massage. Judging by how tired they seemed, I imagine they went straight to sleep afterward. I hope they will share the story of Obon with the children at school — that Japan has customs similar to those found elsewhere.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto City Hall~Nijo220JPY
    Total220JPY

    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

    • 09:00 – Meet in Asakusa
    • * Visit Kaminarimon Gate
    • * Walk through Nakamise Shopping Street
    • * Explore Senso-ji Temple
    • 09:40 – Travel to Harajuku / Meiji Jingu
    • 10:15 – 11:00
    • * Visit Meiji Jingu
    • * Walk along the forested approach
    • * Visit the main shrine
    • 11:00 – 11:30
    • * Explore Takeshita Street
    • * Experience the lively atmosphere of Harajuku
    • 11:30 – 12:00
    • * 30-minute break for coffee or a light meal
    • 12:00 – 13:00
    • * Visit Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • * See the Hachiko Statue
    • * Walk around central Shibuya

    What Is a Rainy-Day Private Family Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I was worried because I could not reach the guests until the morning of the tour, but I felt relieved when we finally got in touch that morning. The guests were a group visiting from North America. Because a typhoon was approaching, I also prepared an alternative schedule in case of heavy rain. When we left the Hotel it was only drizzling, so we proceeded as planned. Although some of the guests had only arrived in Japan the night before, they were energetic and eager throughout the day. It was raining quite hard on Takeshita Street, but we also made our way to Meiji Shrine. At the end, since it was pouring in Shibuya, I gave my explanations from inside a building. The guests were very pleased.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTawaramachi (Tokyo)~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa~Meiji Jingu (Harajuku Station) / Shibuya Ward, Tokyo360JPY
    Section 3TrainYoyogi~Shibuya160JPY
    Total700JPY

    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.

    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 Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Support at Kyoto Station

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Support at Kyoto Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:20 Meet at Kyoto Station
    • 10:50 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 12:30 Lunch
    • 13:30 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 14:15 Support at Kyoto Station
    • 14:30 Tour ends at the Shinkansen ticket gate

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Fushimi Inari and Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group who arrived in Kyoto by Shinkansen on the day of the tour, coming from Shizuoka. Communication had been handled in advance, and although there had been talk of canceling the tour due to unstable weather, they arrived as planned. I guided them to Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and for lunch, upon request, I took them to a gluten-free ramen shop. As they were visiting from Europe, they were struggling with jet lag and appeared quite tired. I also helped resolve a PASMO error and assist with changing a Shinkansen ticket at Kyoto Station, then saw them off at the Shinkansen ticket gate to conclude the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari~Gion-Shijo240JPY
    Section 3BusKiyomizu-michi / Kyoto City Bus~Kyoto Station / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total620JPY

    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!

    Sep 13, 2026
    946jakobr
    Mizu, as your guide in Koyoto, is the perfect guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed…

    Sep 5, 2026
    Sightsee18435593786
    De moeite waard👍
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Mizu heeft een mooie rondleiding geheven er werd…

    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…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo & Futarasan Shrine

    Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo & Futarasan Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00     Meet the guest at JR Nikko Station
    • Travel by bus to Shinkyo
    • 11:40~11:55 Shinkyo sightseeing
    • 12:00~13:00 Lunch
    • 13:00~15:00 Toshogu sightseeing
    • 15:00~15:40 Rinnoji Temple sightseeing
    • 15:40~16:10 Taiyuin sightseeing
    • 16:10~16:30 Futarasan Shrine sightseeing
    • Travel by bus to Tobu Nikko
    • 17:00     Disband at Tobu Nikko Station

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Nikko's World Heritage Sites Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests initially hoped to visit Toshogu Shrine, Rinnoji Temple, the Shinkyo Bridge, and Kegon Falls. However, since the arrival time in Nikko was 11:00, I consulted with the guests and we decided to focus on the World Heritage area. To help them enjoy this area as much as possible, I planned for them to have a meal at a traditional Japanese restaurant located just past the Shinkyo Bridge, at the entrance of the World Heritage area, where they could dine while looking out over the garden. We then took about two hours to explore Toshogu Shrine, the highlight of Nikko, at a leisurely pace. The guests had high expectations before the tour, so they were captivated by its beauty. They were also very interested in the drama Shogun, so they listened intently to the stories about the historical background. Afterward, at Rinnoji Temple, they appreciated a different side from the shrine as well as the Japanese garden, and seemed very satisfied. I believe it turned out to be a Nikko tour that will remain in the guests' hearts.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusTobu Nikko Station/Tobu Bus~Shinkyo/Tobu Bus220JPY
    Section 2BusTaiyuin Futarasan Shrine-mae/Tobu Bus~Tobu Nikko Station/Tobu Bus350JPY
    Total570JPY

    I am a licensed guide based in the Nikko area of Tochigi Prefecture, with a passion for sharing the depth and beauty of this remarkable region.
    In particular, I take great pride in introducing the magnificent World Heritage area, home to Toshogu Shrine, Futarasan Shrine, Rinnoji Temple, and the iconic Shinkyo Bridge. The rich history, spiritual atmosphere, and masterful craftsmanship found there are truly inspiring.
    But Nikko has much more to offer beyond the World Heritage zone. The region is uniquely spread across three different elevation zones: the central town area, the Lake Chuzenji area at higher altitude, and the remote Yumoto Onsen area in the mountains. Each of these areas offers a different charm—from historic sites and sacred spaces to scenic lakes, waterfalls, and hot springs.
    However, due to the area’s wide geography, limited public transit options, and seasonal congestion, even navigating efficiently within a single area can be challenging without local knowledge.
    That’s why local expertise is essential. With in-depth knowledge of Nikko’s layout, transportation network, and crowd patterns, I help my guests make the most of their time, while focusing on the area that suits their interests best.
    I don’t just recite what’s written in guidebooks—I offer deeper insights rooted in Japanese history, religion, and culture. From the legacy of Tokugawa Ieyasu to the spiritual symbolism behind shrine architecture, I aim to provide meaningful and memorable experiences.
    If you’re looking to discover the real Nikko, from its iconic landmarks to hidden gems, I’d be honored to guide you.

    Sep 5, 2026
    Adventure06097262461
    Wonderful day in Nikko
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This tour was a truly…

    Aug 30, 2026
    inbyten
    A perfect day in Nikko with Taka
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Taka crafted…

    Jul 27, 2026
    Onno_P2000
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Very interesting and joyful day trip with Taka
    We…

    Jun 30, 2026
    Rolando_A
    Viator review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A fantastic day!
    We had an amazing day. Our guide was Taka.…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in One Day: Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple & Nijo Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Kyoto Station
    • 10:00 Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • 10:50 Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • 11:35. Gio-ji Temple
    • 12:10 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 12:30 Short break
    • 13:55 Nijo Castle
    • 15:15 Drop off at hotel and end tour

    What's a Rainy-Day Private Tour of Kyoto's Arashiyama and Nijo Castle Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests visited Japan from North America, though they were originally from Europe. One of the guests had visited Kyoto for sightseeing about ten years ago, but this was their first time seeing Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, and Gio-ji. The group was very well-behaved and there were no problems at all throughout the tour. Unfortunately it rained, so walking with umbrellas was the norm. Since we had already walked quite a bit in the rain by the time we reached Gio-ji, we took a taxi from Gio-ji to the Arashiyama bamboo grove. Even so, we got fairly wet by the time we arrived at the Arashiyama bamboo grove. After a short break, we proceeded to Nijo Castle. At Nijo Castle, the guests enjoyed the "nightingale floors." The photos were taken in the garden of Nijo Castle.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 2BusNonomiya / Kyoto Bus~Otagidera-mae / Kyoto Bus230JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)~Randen Tenjingawa250JPY
    Section 4SubwayRanden Tenjingawa~Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 5SubwayNijojo-mae~Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)220JPY
    Total1,200JPY

    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.

    Sep 28, 2026
    Miguel_E
    Amazing Service
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful time with Kazuo.…

    Sep 27, 2026
    T
    TrailBlazer47194
    Kazuo Sumi is a great guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide Kazuo Sumi…

    Sep 1, 2026
    Steve6172014
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 7, 2026
    Pascale_Q
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Very good private tour of Kyoto with Kazuo
    We had…

  • Matsue & Izumo Taisha in 1 Day Tour

    Matsue & Izumo Taisha in 1 Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Unshu Hirata Station (Ichibata Electric Railway) 9:30 → Izumo Taisha-mae Station 9:58 → Izumo Taisha (10:00-12:10, including lunch) → Travel to Matsue by Ichibata Electric Railway (12:20-13:30) → Matsue Castle (13:50-15:20)
    • → Samurai Residence (15:40-16:20) → Meimean (16:30-17:10, including tea) → See off the guest at Matsue Shinjiko Onsen Station (Ichibata Electric Railway) (17:30)
    • *At Izumo Taisha, admission to the Treasure Hall (Shinkokan) is also included.

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Izumo and Matsue in the San'in Region Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Due to train schedules, the tour was moved up by 30 minutes. Since the guest preferred public transportation, we traveled only by train and on foot. The guest was on a solo trip of about a month in Japan, and had chosen the San'in region out of a desire to visit not only major cities but also rural areas. The guest enjoyed the atmosphere around Izumo Taisha Shrine and Matsue Castle, which are deeply connected to Japanese mythology and history and, while attracting a fair number of visitors, are not overly crowded. As the guest planned to stay one more day in this area, I introduced several sightseeing spots that we were not able to visit on this day.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainUnshu Hirata~Izumo Taisha-mae570JPY
    Section 2TrainIzumo Taisha-mae~Matsue Shinjiko Onsen900JPY
    Total1,470JPY

    I started as a volunteer guide for foreign tourists at Matsue Castle in Shimane Prefecture when I was in my 40s, and after retiring at the age of 60, I became a certified interpreter guide and expanded the scope of my activities to include all of Shimane Prefecture, as well as Tottori and Hiroshima Prefectures.
    I was born and raised in Matsue City in western Japan. Matsue is a medium-sized city and the capital of Shimane Prefecture. It is a quiet town that retains the old atmosphere with Matsue Castle, which was built over 400 years ago, and is known for its culture of drinking matcha green tea frequently. I would like to share with you the charm of a regional city like Matsue. Near Matsue, there is a shrine called Izumo Grand Shrine, one of the largest, oldest and most venerated shrines in Japan. The origin of this shrine is written in the Japanese myths, and its precincts are very mysterious. Shimane Prefecture and the neighboring prefecture of Tottori were the setting of Japanese mythology and have well preserved Japan’s historical heritage and traditions. Shimane and Tottori prefectures are not on the so-called “golden route” frequented by foreign tourists, but I hope they will be included in your sightseeing route because they are full of Japan’s unique charm. From its beginnings to the present day, Japan has weaved a long history without being dominated by any other country or, conversely, without advocating hegemony over neighboring countries – although, unfortunately, it did invade Asian countries for a period of time in the 20th century. It is my great pleasure to introduce you to a part of Japan’s culture, which is diverse and peaceful. I am also a guide in Hiroshima Prefecture, the southern neighbor of Shimane Prefecture. I mainly guide visitors to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, where I try to convey the tragic event of the atomic bombing based on the testimonies of those who suffered as much as possible. It is a place that you should definitely visit at least once.
    Furthermore, I hope to convey the Japanese way of thinking and lifestyle through various conversations during the guided tour. This is also one of my joys.
    I myself often travel, and I always make sure to have a guide with me. This is because the quality of the trip is greatly enhanced by the guide’s explanations. I also make an effort to make travelers feel that way. Enjoy your trip!

    Apr 21, 2026
    Michelle W
    Tripadvisor review: Matsue/Izumo Taisha Shrine Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Matsue Private Tour
    Our guide was Katsumi and he…

    May 18, 2025
    F
    FarTooFrequentFlyer
    Bringing its samurai heritage to life!
    Tripadvisor review: Matsue/Izumo Taisha Shrine Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    We lucked in…

    Oct 29, 2024
    Bern_Y
    Day Trip to Izumo Taisha and other Shrines
    Viator review: Matsue/Izumo Taisha Shrine Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide…

    Sep 6, 2024
    Tshiehnewton
    Excellent local guide for English speakers
    Tripadvisor review: Matsue/Izumo Taisha Shrine Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Katsumi Nagata was a…

  • Mie in Half a Day: Geku & Naiku

    Mie in Half a Day: Geku & Naiku

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:15 – 10:30 Meet the guests at Iseshi Station, handle the direct delivery of luggage to the hotel
    • 10:30 – 10:45 Walk to Geku (Outer Shrine)
    • 10:45 – 11:45 Visit Geku (Outer Shrine)
    • 11:45 – 12:00 Travel by bus from Geku to Naiku (Inner Shrine)
    • 12:00 – 13:00 Lunch at Oharai-machi
    • 13:00 – 14:30 Visit Naiku (Inner Shrine) (including a break after the visit)
    • 14:30 – 15:00 Travel by bus with the guests from in front of Naiku to Kintetsu Isuzugawa Station (end of guide)

    What's a Private Ise Jingu Tour Like for a Family? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a family group. Since they were scheduled to stay at a hotel, I assisted them at the front of Ise-shi Station with signing up for the luggage direct-delivery service to the hotel. Visiting Ise Jingu can be challenging for some in the group, so I guided them with consideration, keeping walking distances shorter and making sure there were chances to rest. With several in the group, each person had a different way of taking things in, which made it a little harder to keep everyone focused, but I did my best to keep them interested. Fortunately, the day was cloudy and the temperature was not too high. Through experiences like guiding a family group this time, I want to keep thinking about how to help everyone, including younger guests, take a greater interest in the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusGeku-mae/Mie Kotsu~Naiku-mae/Mie Kotsu520JPY
    Section 2BusNaiku-mae/Mie Kotsu~Isuzugawa Station-mae/Mie Kotsu300JPY
    Total820JPY

    Hi, I am your guide Henry. Henry Kurata
    I have experience of visiting more than 40 different countries in the world and stayed in USA and UK more than total of 10 years as for expats of Automotive components manufacturer. Since I have decent knowledge about Japanese culture and history. I am pretty much for sure I can be your assistant wherever you go, whatever your interest is. I would help you to have unforgettable experience either in popular place or off the beaten track throughout in Japan.
    If you care about flowering cherry in Japan, I am right person you can trust since I am an enthusiast on researching and watching many different species throughout in Japan. I hope I can meet you in Japan in near future.
    Your wish for wonder is my command.
    Thank you very much!

    Jun 23, 2026
    Andrew_M
    Viator review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Henry is a wonderful guide
    We had a fantastic…

    May 6, 2026
    albypoo
    Tripadvisor review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Unforgettable day at Ise Jingu with Henry
    We were…

    May 6, 2026
    s0ranet
    Tripadvisor review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    充実したツアーでありがとうございました!
    GW期間中で他のツアーがすべて満席だったため、こちらからプライベートガイドを申し込みました。予約サイトから英語のメールが届き、ガイドの倉田さんと直接やり取りをして進める流れでした。

    プライベートツアーを利用するのは初めてだったのですが、ガイドの倉田さんが本当に「神対応」でした!GWの混雑などで私たちが2時間も遅刻してしまったのですが、スケジュールを柔軟に調整してくださり、とても親切に迎えてくださいました。

    伊勢神宮の外宮から内宮をご案内いただいたのですが、知識が大変豊富で、こちらの質問にも的確に答えてくださり、とても充実した時間を過ごすことができました。ユーモアたっぷりでウィットに富んだ素晴らしいお人柄なので、一緒にお話ししていて本当に楽しいです!

    日本語と英語の両方でご対応いただけるそうなので、このサイトを利用する海外の旅行者の方にも強くおすすめします。今回このツアーに申し込んで大正解でした。最高の旅行の思い出をありがとうございました。

    May 1, 2026
    J1543OM_
    Tripadvisor review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    初お伊勢さん
    本日は大変貴重なお時間をいただきありがとうございました。とてもわかりやすい倉田さんのガイドで4時間とても充実した時間を過ごさせていたきました。はじめての伊勢神宮をとても満喫できました。また何かの機会があったら、倉田さんよろしくお願いします。