Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Station & Hiroshima Peace Park

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

August, 2024

Tour Itinerary

10:30 Hiroshima Station
12:00 Miyajima
14:00 Hiroshima Peace Park
17:30 Hiroshima Station

What Is a Private Tokyo Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from Europe on a family trip, visiting Japan for the first time. They had arrived in Tokyo about a week earlier and were amazed at how little litter there was in Japanese cities and at how many vending machines there were. I guided them using a few phrases of a foreign language that I was only slightly familiar with, but since only a couple of simple words got through, I switched to slow English. On a whim, I tried using a translation app for the first time. I found it to be a very interesting tool for communicating with younger members of the group. Depending on how it is used, it can even bring out quite a few laughs. However, since you cannot double-check the result, it may be better to test a phrase first before actually using it.

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

Transportation cost per person

No.	Transportation	Route	Fare
Section 1	Train	Hiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi Station	420JPY
Section 2	Train	Miyajimaguchi Station～Nishi-Hiroshima Station	330JPY
Section 3	Bus	Nishi-Hiroshima Station～Hiroshima Peace Park	220JPY
Section 4	Bus	Genbaku Dome-mae～Hiroshima Station	220JPY
Total			1,190JPY

Tour Report by Yuji

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.

Request Booking

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…

August, 2026

Osaka: JR Nara Station (taxi) & Todaiji’s Great Buddha Hall

Nara Day Trip from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

August, 2024

Tour Itinerary

9:00 the Ritz-Carlton Osaka (Start of Tour ～ 17:00)
9:12　Train departs Osaka Station for Nara
10:03 JR Nara Station (taxi)
10:20-50 Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Deer Park
(walk 10 minutes)
11:10-50 Kasuga-taisha Shrine
(walk 10 minutes)
12:00-20 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill
(walk 10 minutes)
12:30 Tamukeyama-hachiman Shrine
12:40-13:10 Todaiji's Nigatsudo Hall
(walk 5 minutes)
13:20 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower
(walk 10 minutes)
13:40-14:10 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall
(walk 5 minutes)
14:20 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate)
(walk 10 minutes)
14:40-15:30 Isuien Garden & Yoshikien Garden
(taxi 10 minutes)
15:50 JR Nara Station
16:00 Train departs for Osaka arriving at JR Osaka at 16:46
16:40 back at Osaka Station (End of Tour)

Can You Do a Private Nara Tour Focused on History and Deer? A Licensed Guide's Report I had a very enjoyable time guiding once again. The guests were visitors from North America. In answering the guests' questions, I was able to talk at length about the relationship between the state and religion, from the Nara period all the way through to the periods from the Meiji era to the postwar years. They seemed to gain at least some understanding of the question, "What exactly is the Emperor?" Of course, they also had a wonderful time interacting with the deer, though they mentioned that at home they are troubled by damage caused by deer.

Click here for more details: Nara Day Trip from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

Transportation cost per person

No.	Transportation	Route	Fare
Section 1	Train	Osaka～Nara	820JPY
Section 2	Train	Nara～Osaka	820JPY
Total			1,640JPY

Tour Report by Junichi

Hello! Thank you for choosing Nara! I bet you’ll love Nara. I specialize in Nara because Nara is the unique place where in one day you can cover the history and religions of Japan from the ancient times to the post war era while enjoying rambling in the UNESCO World Heritage park, having communication with lovely deer, surrounded with the beautiful nature.
I grew up in Nara, went university in Kyoto, enjoyed teaching at high schools and a university in Osaka. The three former capitals of Japan are home to me.
After retiring from teaching I began guiding so that I can meet various people from various corners of the world with a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Each time I guide, I find it hugely rewarding because I learn a lot from my guests sharing the history, culture and all that I know about Nara, Kyoto and Osaka.
I used to be a marathon runner, mountain climber and skier though I am not much of them anymore.
What I especially recommend is to stay in Nara a couple of days and enjoy communicating with friendly deer while visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nara in early morning, temples and shrines at night are well worth experiencing.

Request Booking

May 16, 2026
I3520JTcristinat
Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Nara with family
Excellent tour with Junichi!!! Perfect English speaking guide and…

May 3, 2026
Maria_J
Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Enjoyable day in Nara
We spent 6 hours in Nara with Junichi…

Apr 11, 2026
64sandig
Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Osaka DEP. with Licensed Guide
????? Absolutely Outstanding ? Junichi Made Our Nara Day…

Apr 11, 2026
64sandig
Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Osaka DEP. with Licensed Guide
????? Absolutely Outstanding ? Junichi Made Our Nara Day Unforgettable!
We had the pleasure of touring Nara with Junichi today, and he was simply phenomenal from the very first moment! Warm, welcoming, and a true professional, Junichi made us feel instantly at ease. His genuine enthusiasm and excellent English made every part of the day enjoyable and easy to follow.
Junichi’s knowledge is encyclopedic, yet he explains everything in such a clear, engaging, and understandable way. At Kofuku-ji Temple, he brought the history and significance of the site to life with fascinating details. We then enjoyed a relaxing lunch together before heading to Nara Park, where we had the delightful experience of feeding the famous bowing deer ? such a fun and memorable moment!
What really stood out was how flexible and attentive Junichi was. When we felt a bit pressed for time, he smoothly adjusted the itinerary and took us to a wonderful sake tasting facility instead of the next temple. We sampled several excellent sakes and couldn’t resist taking some home with us! From there, he led us to an incredible traditional kitchen knife shop run by an artisan whose family has been crafting blades for 750 years (originally making samurai swords). The craftsmanship was breathtaking, and we ended up purchasing a beautiful knife.
Later, Junichi took us to see an original Japanese merchant’s house, which was a real eye-opener ? the minimalistic lifestyle and beautiful architecture were fascinating.
The entire day was perfectly paced, insightful, and filled with wonderful surprises. Junichi’s caring attitude, deep knowledge, and ability to adapt made this one of the best private tour experiences we’ve ever had. We are so grateful we got to spend the day with him.
If you’re visiting Nara, do yourself a favor and book with Junichi ? you won’t regret it! He’s an absolute gem.
Highly, highly recommended ? 5 stars without hesitation!

Mar 30, 2026
dpadillachavez
Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
Great day at Nara!
Best tour on Nara, Junichi…

August, 2026

Takayama Customized Half-Day Tour

Takayama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

August, 2024

Tour Itinerary

15:00 Hotel　15:05 Nakabashi Bridge　15:15 Old Townscape　16:00 Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine, Yatai Kaikan (Festival Float Exhibition Hall), Sakurayama Nikkokan 17:00 Old Townscape Again　17:15 Hida Kokubunji Temple　17:45 Yamazakura Shrine 18:00 Hotel

Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of Takayama Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a warm and friendly group visiting from Europe. They were all very kind and gentle, and one of the guests was very knowledgeable. They seemed to enjoy the wind chimes and atmosphere at Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine. Since their dinner could only start at 6:00, they mentioned they needed to return early, so we shortened the tour. Along the way, I checked the itinerary and pace with them at each stage. Regarding the shortened time, they said no refund was necessary. In the afternoon it was a pity that there were no shops open along the Miyagawa Morning Market street. They said that the next day they planned to explore the Miyagawa Morning Market and a sake brewery (for a gift) and do some shopping. The pace became quite fast, but the guests had agreed to this. By the time we returned to the hotel, there was a sense of accomplishment like finishing a marathon, and we all cheered "yeah!" and ended on a high note. It was wonderful to see everyone smiling.

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

Tour Report by Mitsu

I was born, raised, and still live in Takayama, and I am a licensed National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter.

My guiding philosophy is to create unforgettable memories through warm, cheerful, and engaging experiences. I enjoy sharing not only the highlights of the region, but also the history, culture, and stories that make each place unique.

I studied International Relations at a national university and have built a diverse career in the tourism industry, including hotels, travel agencies, and the local tourism association. Today, I primarily guide luxury travelers, as well as private and group tours, offering authentic cultural experiences, visits with local artisans, and in-depth insights into Japanese traditions.

I also practice Japanese calligraphy, the Omotesenke school of tea ceremony, Sencha (Baisa-ryu), and kimono dressing, allowing me to incorporate traditional Japanese culture into my tours.

I mainly guide in Takayama, Okuhida, Shirakawa-go, Gokayama, Kanazawa, and Kamikochi. I look forward to helping make your visit to Japan a truly memorable experience.

Request Booking

Sep 26, 2024
L9503LEstephenr
Amazing experience and best guide ever ✨️
Tripadvisor review: Takayama Half-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
We did the tour…

Aug 29, 2024
Stay19758434714
Takayama tour with Mitsu!
Tripadvisor review: Takayama Local Cuisine, Food & Sake Cultural Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Mitsu was an amazing…

Aug 24, 2024
Joy L
Mitsu introduces us to the heritage of Takayama
Tripadvisor review: Takayama Local Cuisine, Food & Sake Cultural Tour with Government-Licensed…

Aug 13, 2024
sall450
Mitsu the BEST tourist guide in Takayama
Tripadvisor review: Takayama Local Cuisine, Food & Sake Cultural Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Mitsu…

August, 2026

Hokkaido: Yoichi Old Fukuhara Fishery & JR Sapporo Station　Dismissal

Otaru & Yoichi from Sapporo by Car with Licensed Guide

August, 2024

Tour Itinerary

7:45 Meet at JR Sapporo Station
9:00 Yoichi Daikoku Rock and Ebisu Rock
9:30 Yoichi Old Fukuhara Fishery
10:30 Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery
12:00 Former Aoyama Villa
13:00 Lunch at Aozuka Diner
14:30 Tanaka Sake Brewery Kikkogura
15:00 Otaru Sumiyoshi Shrine
16:00 JR Sapporo Station　Dismissal

What Is a Private Day Tour of Otaru and Nikka Whisky Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Since we had discussed the itinerary many times in advance, it became a private tour well suited to their requests. At the Nikka Whisky distillery, they toured the museum and enjoyed sampling three or four kinds of whisky. As they had requested delicious fresh seafood for lunch, especially sea urchin, I booked a restaurant a little away from the town of Otaru. Even with a reservation at popular restaurants, guests are often kept waiting, but with good timing we were seated right away. They were able to fully enjoy fresh sea urchin, which is in season until the end of August. Since one of the guests enjoys flower arrangement as a hobby, we visited Aoyama Villa, where they enjoyed the garden, and finally I was able to show them the floral water basin at Sumiyoshi Shrine. The day after the tour, they sent me an email saying that they had been very satisfied with the tour.

Click here for more details: Otaru & Yoichi from Sapporo by Car with Licensed Guide

Tour Report by Tracy

Hi, my name is Toshie Nagai, please call me Tracy! I have been working as a tour guide for about 10 years in Hokkaido.
I myself love traveling and I have been to many different places both domestic and overseas and made good memories with my family. I would provide you a personalized tour so you will be able to experience various activities and make wonderful memories. Hokkaido has four distinct seasons that you cannot experience in other places in Japan. I assure that you will be able to enjoy natural beauty and delicious food in Hokkaido.

Request Booking

May 16, 2025
CLAUDE_B
Excellent
Viator review: Otaru & Yoichi Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle from Sapporo
Paysages de montagnes encore enneigées et de…

August, 2026

Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

August, 2024

Tour Itinerary

1. 09:00 Meet up@Tokyo Bay Shiomi Prince Hotel2. 09:10 Transit: train, subway
3. 09:30 Stay@Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple
4. 10:00 Stay@Tsukiji Outer Market
5. 10:30 Breakfast@Tsukiji Hongwanji Cafe Tsugumi
6. 11:20 Transit: subway
7. 11:55 Stay@Asakusa
8. 12:15 Transit: subway, train
9. 13:05 Disband@Hotel

What Is a Private Tokyo Tour of Tsukiji and Asakusa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were an elderly group, and since some of them could only walk at a slower pace, I made a point of finding elevators and escalators whenever possible while moving through the stations. The highlight of this tour was breakfast at the cafe in Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple. Fearing a possible cancellation of the tour, I visited without a reservation, but this turned out to be not the best decision. I used the waiting time to guide them around the temple and the outer market, but it seems our turn had already come during that time. This cafe seems to get especially crowded in the morning, so next time I would like to make a reservation with a specified time before visiting. Upon arriving in Asakusa, some of the guests appeared tired, and since I had heard that the group planned to travel to a cruise terminal in Yokohama after this tour, in Asakusa we limited ourselves to taking photos in front of Kaminarimon Gate, and then I saw them off at the Hotel before parting ways. On the way back, we used the Toei subway from Asakusa to save time.

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

Transportation cost per person

No.	Transportation	Route	Fare
Section 1	Train	Shiomi Station～Hatchobori Station	170JPY
Section 2	Subway	Hatchobori Station～Tsukiji Station	180JPY
Section 3	Subway	Tsukiji Station～Asakusa Station	210JPY
Section 4	Subway	Asakusa Station～Hatchobori Station	290JPY
Section 5	Train	Hatchobori Station～Shiomi Station	170JPY
Total			1,020JPY

Tour Report by Sam

Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

Request Booking

Jul 21, 2026
G848SWmaribelm
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
The tour experience…

Jul 16, 2026
Cezary P
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Excellent tour of Tokyo!
Sam, was outstanding! Showed…

Jul 9, 2026
Michael_C
Tokyo tour
Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Excellent tour with a wonderful guide -…

Jun 18, 2026
David_W
Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
Fish Market Tour
Great tour. Got to see…

August, 2026

Nara in One Day: Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park

Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

August, 2024

Tour Itinerary

9:00 Kintetsu Nara Station　Meet up
9:30 Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park
11:30 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
12:30 Lunch (Higashimuki Shopping Street)
13:30 Naramachi (Shopping and more)
15:00 Kintetsu Nara Station　Disband

What Is a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Nara Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. The meeting point was suddenly changed on the morning of the tour while I was on my way, at the guests' request. Since I had arrived early at the original meeting point, I was able to reach the new location with plenty of time to spare afterward. It was hot on the day, but it stayed cloudy all day long, which was a great help. As the guests were able to keep a good pace, the tour proceeded without needing to take breaks many times. We visited the Great Buddha Hall of Todai-ji Temple, then Nigatsu-do and Sangatsu-do, and walked along the foot of Mount Wakakusa to Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Thanks to the guests and the weather, we were able to cover everything without much difficulty. The guests did quite a bit of shopping in Nara, which is somewhat unusual. At the various shops I took them to, they purchased three kitchen knives, some tea, and some pottery.

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

Transportation cost per person

No.	Transportation	Route	Fare
Section 1	Bus	Kintetsu Nara～In front of Todai-ji Great Buddha Hall	600JPY
Section 2	Bus	Kasuga Taisha Shrine～Kintetsu Nara Station	0JPY
Total			600JPY

Tour Report by Yoshi

I am Yoshi, a Nara Local Government Licensed Guide Interpreter and also, a National Government Licensed Interepreter.
Let’s go out! The Kansai region was the center of Japan for a long time. It was from the 4th century to 19th century. Thus the Kansai region is rich in scenic and historic interest. Why don’t we see, feel, and find so many attractions in Nara Kyoto and Osaka. I was born and raised in Nara. Also I have been to Osaka and Kyoto for working, shopping and dining. I can show you not only major tourist spots but also shops and delicious food that only locals know. I am looking forward to sharing wonderful moments with you!

Request Booking

May 29, 2025
Dana_K
Get ready to climb and explore
Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
There is a lot of climbing…

Aug 16, 2024
Dylan_N
Yoshi was a great tour guide
Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
We had a great experience with…

Jun 9, 2024
Tour39164063770
Tolle Stadtführung mit erfahrenem Guide
Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Auf unserem Trip durch Japan hatten wir…

August, 2026

Kyoto in One Day: Hotel SOWAKA & Fushimi Inari

Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

August, 2024

Tour Itinerary

8:30 Hotel SOWAKA
8:30-8:45 Yasaka Shrine & Gion Walk
(Travel by train to Hankyu Katsura Station, then take a taxi and get off in front of the Sagano Torokko Arashiyama Station)
9:30-10:00 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Path
10:00-10:20 Break at a cafe at Keifuku Arashiyama Station
10:50-11:20 Nijo Castle
11:35-11:50 Introduce a matcha sweets shop in Gion
11:55-12:55 Lunch (Kyoto cuisine Izutsu)
13:30-14:10 Fushimi Inari
14:10-14:30 Since the guests are heading toward Daitokuji, the guide also rides along in the taxi to provide support. The guide gets off partway, and the tour ends.

Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama and Fushimi Inari Body: [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private one-day tour of Kyoto for guests visiting from North America. The guests had requested the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Fushimi Inari, so I planned an itinerary of Hotel → Yasaka Shrine and a Gion walk → Arashiyama Bamboo Grove → Nijo Castle → lunch → Fushimi Inari → Sanjusangendo → Hotel. However, since the guests took a break at a café, browsed matcha sweet shops in Gion, and enjoyed a leisurely lunch, we omitted Sanjusangendo and visited three main sites. Although the number of sightseeing spots was reduced, the guests seemed to fully enjoy the beauty and charm of each place. The sukiyaki set meal at lunch was a great favorite, and it was finished completely, right down to the udon at the end, with even a second helping of rice. Along the way, I heard a great deal about the guests' work. As the guests worked in the medical field, I was able to hear expert perspectives on coronavirus vaccines and prescription medications. Finally, since the guests had reserved a tea ceremony experience near Daitokuji Temple, I shared a taxi from Fushimi Inari and helped support the conversation with the driver.

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

Transportation cost per person

No.	Transportation	Route	Fare
Section 1	Train	Kyoto Kawaramachi～Katsura	200JPY
Section 2	Train	Arashiyama～Randen Tenjingawa	250JPY
Section 3	Subway	Uzumasa Tenjingawa～Nijojo-mae	260JPY
Section 4	Train	Gion-Shijo～Fushimi Inari	220JPY
Total			930JPY

Tour Report by Masaki

My name is Masaki Kitagawa, a male in the middle of 50s living in Kyoto with my wife, son and three cats. While working for a local energy company on weekdays, I’ve been a tour guide on weekends since 2019 and enjoy interacting with people coming from different worlds. It is my great pleasure to help you make your excursion time-efficient and pleasant even during the high seasons in Kyoto. Considering your interests, preferences and priorities, I want to design and make your journey fruitful one. I’m thrilled to be contacted from you. Let’s explore Kyoto !

Request Booking

Jun 3, 2026
Nikki G
Wonderful experience with a great guide!
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Masaki was our guide through…

May 24, 2026
Pamela_C
Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
Perfect day in Kyoto with the best guide!…

May 4, 2026
TravelersHigh77
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Excellent English speaking guide for Kyoto
Masaki was s wonderful and patient…

Nov 29, 2025
vsairamkumar
Kyoto guided tour
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
We had great fun exploring Kyoto with Masaki San.…

August, 2026

Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

August, 2024

Tour Itinerary

①　10:00　Meet at hotel (Sowaka / Gion)
②　10:50　Daitoku-ji Temple (Daisen-in)
③　12:00　Sanjusangen-do Temple
④　13:15　Lunch (Sanjo)
⑤　13:40　Pontocho
⑥　14:00　Rokudo Chinno-ji Temple
⑦　14:45　Disband (near ⑥ above)

Can You Do a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Visiting Daisen-in and Sanjusangendo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan and Kyoto for the first time from North America. This trip to Japan came about at the strong request of one of the guests. Since they had a tea ceremony reservation the next day, I explained the history of wabi-cha and the concept of wabi-sabi at Daisen-in. At Pontocho, I explained the history of Gion and the difference between geiko and maiko. At Sanjusangendo, I explained the Thousand-Armed Kannon Bodhisattva and Buddhism. As it happened to be the day of the Gozan no Okuribi bonfires, I explained Sai no Kawara, Jizo Bodhisattva, Obon, and the Gozan no Okuribi at Rokudo Chinno-ji Temple, and encouraged them to go and see it that evening around the banks of the Kamo River before we parted ways. There were no advance transportation expenses.

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

Tour Report by Kazu

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

Request Booking

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…

August, 2026

Osaka in One Day: @Osaka Castle & @Hozenji Temple

Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

August, 2024

Tour Itinerary

09:00 Meet @Hotel Cordia Osaka
10:00 @Osaka Castle
12:30 @Umeda Sky Building
14:00 @Dotonbori
14:30 @Hozenji Temple
14:45 Disband @Dotonbori, okonomiyaki "Chibo"

Title: What's a Private Osaka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Umeda Sky Building, and Dotonbori The guests were a group visiting Osaka. Although the group seemed a little concerned about walking, they moved around more smoothly than expected. Fortunately, the weather today was cloudy, which made it quite comfortable. The itinerary changed back and forth right up until the last moment, and today as well we adjusted the original plan at the guests' request. At Osaka Castle there were a great many questions (some of the guests appeared to have studied Japanese history quite thoroughly), and they listened very attentively to my explanations. At their request, we visited the Umeda Sky Building. One of the guests did not seem comfortable with heights and waited on a lower floor, while the rest of the group were very pleased with the beautiful view. For a late lunch, the group wanted to try okonomiyaki, so I guided them to a restaurant in Dotonbori, where we parted ways. I also introduced a restaurant that could accommodate the dietary preferences of some of the guests. Special note: While talking with the guests, I got the impression that they may have had some incorrect information about certain spots (this time especially Shinsekai and Hozenji). For Shinsekai, the guests understood after my explanation and decided to skip it this time. For Hozenji, despite my overview explanation, there was a strong wish to visit, so we went, but the visit lasted only about four to five minutes. (I believe it turned out to be quite different from what they had expected.)

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

Transportation cost per person

No.	Transportation	Route	Fare
Section 1	Subway	Honmachi～Tennoji	240JPY
Section 2	Train	Tennoji～Morinomiya	170JPY
Section 3	Train	Morinomiya～Osaka	170JPY
Section 4	Subway	Umeda～Shinsaibashi	240JPY
Total			820JPY

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

Request Booking

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…

August, 2026

Osaka in One Day: to 10:30 Osaka Castle & to 14:00 Dotonbori

Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

August, 2024

Tour Itinerary

08:00　Meet The St. Regis Osaka
08:40 to 10:30 Osaka Castle
11:00 to 11:40 Umeda Sky Building
12:00 to 12:40 Shinsekai
13:00 to 13:30 Kuromon Market
13:45 to 14:00 Dotonbori
14:00 Disband Dotonbori

Title: What's a Private Osaka Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Kuromon Market, and Dotonbori The guests were very interested in Japanese castles, so I explained features such as the main keep (tenshukaku), turrets (yagura), loopholes (sama), baileys (kuruwa), the main gate (otemon), and the rear gate (karamete). They listened with great interest. Since we spent a bit too much time at Osaka Castle, I kept the following spots shorter. Even so, the guests enjoyed sampling food while walking around Shinsekai, Kuromon Market, and Dotonbori. At the end, we parted ways at a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant in Dotonbori that they had really wanted to visit. I believe the guests enjoyed the popular spots of Osaka. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures.

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

Transportation cost per person

No.	Transportation	Route	Fare
Section 1	Subway	Osaka Metro Hommachi～Osaka Metro Tanimachi 4-chome	190JPY
Section 2	Subway	JR Osakajokoen～JR Osaka	170JPY
Section 3	Subway	Osaka Metro Umeda～Osaka Metro Dobutsuen-mae	240JPY
Section 4	Subway	Osaka Metro Ebisucho～Osaka Metro Nipponbashi	190JPY
Total			790JPY

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…

August, 2026

Category: Uncategorized