Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 12:55 Meet up @ Hotel Metropolitan Marunouchi (Sapia Tower, 1-7-12 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 13:20 Shibuya Crossing
    • 3) 14:30 Asakusa <Nakamise-dori, Senso-ji Temple, Nishi-Sando, Hoppy Street, Shin-Nakamise-dori>
    • 4) 16:00 Tokyo Tower
    • 5) 17:00 Azabudai Hills (1-3-7 Azabudai, Minato-ku, Tokyo)
    • 6) 17:30 Disband @ Hotel Metropolitan Marunouchi (Sapia Tower, 1-7-12 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo)

    What Does a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tokyo Tower, Shibuya, and Asakusa I guided a group visiting from Oceania on a private one-day tour of Tokyo. Before the tour, I received requests via email (they wished to see Tokyo Tower, Shibuya, and Asakusa), and I confirmed the itinerary again at the meeting point. We were able to meet about five minutes ahead of schedule, and the tour of Shibuya went smoothly. On the subway ride to Asakusa, we exchanged information. Since they planned to travel to Kyoto by Shinkansen on the 15th, and Typhoon No. 7 was approaching, I advised them to pay attention to the JR Central website starting the day before and to head to the station early on the day of travel (I also sent the latest information by email). In Asakusa, I guided them not only through Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise Street but also through other areas. We arrived at Tokyo Tower at exactly 4:00, and as the guide I waited on the 3rd floor. After that, since we had the opportunity, I gave them a quick tour of Mori JP Tower and Azabudai Hills, and we parted ways at the entrance of their Hotel. After we said goodbye, I noticed the news that the Tokaido Shinkansen (Tokyo–Nagoya) would be suspended all day on Friday, August 16, so I contacted them by email. I received a reply that the guests had immediately headed to Tokyo Station to change their tickets, which put me at ease.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Tozai Line Otemachi Station~Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line Shibuya Station600JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Shibuya Station~Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station~Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line Kamiyacho Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Kamiyacho Station~Tokyo Metro Tozai Line Otemachi Station0JPY
    Total600JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto: Shimogamo Shrine & Sanjusangendo

    Kyoto: Shimogamo Shrine & Sanjusangendo

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Doubletree by Hilton Kyoto Station
    • 10:40-11:00 Shimogamo Shrine
    • 11:20-11:40 Shorenin Temple
    • 12:20 Transfer to hotel
    • 12:45-13:40 Lunch (Yaokian)
    • 14:00-14:25 Nijo Castle
    • 14:50-15:10 Sanjusangendo
    • 15:20 Transfer to hotel
    • 15:40-16:00 Guide to Shinkyogoku and Teramachi Kyogoku, guide to Akanes Kyoto for ring making and reservation assistance, guide to LOFT at Kawaramachi Rokkaku and dismissal

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like for a Group? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of visitors from North America. Since they had mentioned in advance that they wished to avoid crowds and that some members were sensitive to heat, the original itinerary was: Hotel → Shimogamo Shrine → Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts → Nijo Castle → lunch (a chicken cuisine restaurant) → Shorenin Temple → Sanjusangendo → the Shijo Kawaramachi area. However, we learned on-site that the museum was closed, and because some of the guests were feeling unwell or tired from the heat, the plan changed to: Hotel → Shimogamo Shrine → Shorenin Temple → return to Hotel → lunch (a chicken cuisine restaurant) → Nijo Castle → Sanjusangendo → return to Hotel → the Shijo Kawaramachi area. Among the sights, Nijo Castle seemed to leave a particularly strong impression, and the guests showed great interest in the details of each room of the Ninomaru Palace, such as the intentions behind the "nightingale" floors and the paintings on the sliding doors. They also remarked that it was "cool" to be walking along the very corridors that the shogun once walked. For lunch, the guests had requested chicken cuisine, so they enjoyed dishes such as oyakodon at a chicken cuisine restaurant. At the end, since we had a little time to spare, I introduced the animal cafes and souvenir shops in the Shinkyogoku and Teramachi Kyogoku areas, a ring-making shop they had requested (guiding them there and helping with the reservation), and finally an item shop, before parting ways.

    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 !

    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.…

  • Kyoto: Kyoto Station & Nishiki Market

    Kyoto: Kyoto Station & Nishiki Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Kyoto Station
    • 10:30-11:15 Fushimi Inari
    • 11:30-12:00 Sanjusangendo
    • 12:30-13:30 Lunch (Kodaiji Hashiba)
    • 13:45-15:00 Ninenzaka, Sannenzaka, Kiyomizu-dera
    • 15:15-15:45 Nijo Castle
    • 16:15-16:45 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Path
    • 17:15-17:45 Nishiki Market
    • 18:00 Kyoto Station

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like With a Licensed Guide? A Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. The itinerary was: Kyoto Station → Fushimi Inari → Sanjusangendo → lunch → Ninenzaka, Sannenzaka, and Kiyomizu-dera → Nijo Castle → Arashiyama Bamboo Grove → Nishiki Market → Kyoto Station. Throughout the tour, sightseeing was carried out mostly with wheelchair support at each location. In the intense summer heat, the route from Ninenzaka to Kiyomizu-dera was steep, and pushing and pulling the wheelchair was quite demanding, but it was impressive to see the whole group cooperate to manage it together. The guests asked about Japanese views on religion, real estate conditions in Japan, and the declining birthrate and aging population, and they were also impressed by the vending machines found throughout the streets. For lunch, the guests wanted authentic Kyoto-style cuisine at a place frequented by locals, so they enjoyed a yuba course meal and were very satisfied. This private one-day Kyoto tour was arranged through [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. [Japan Guide Agency](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is a winner of the Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

    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 !

    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.…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Shinjuku Golden Gai・Kabukicho

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Shinjuku Golden Gai・Kabukicho

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:55 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 11:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 12:30 Imperial Palace
    • 13:20 Lunch @ Uotsuki (Tsukiji)
    • 14:00 Tsukiji Market
    • 14:50 Sensoji Temple
    • 16:00 Akihabara
    • 17:00 Shinjuku Golden Gai・Kabukicho
    • 17:50 Disband @ Hotel

    What Is a Private Full-Day Tokyo Sightseeing Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time. They planned to travel to Kyoto and Osaka after sightseeing in Tokyo. At Meiji Shrine, they appeared deeply impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with great interest to the historical explanations about the role of the Emperor and the Meiji Restoration. At Tsukiji, they enjoyed sushi for lunch. In Asakusa, they were very interested in the explanation of the differences between Shinto and Buddhism. In Akihabara, they purchased wireless earphones at an electronics store. In Shinjuku, they showed interest in the 3D cat screen near Shinjuku Station and the Godzilla head in Kabukicho. Since I responded to all of the guests' requests, I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayRoppongi~Ebisu600JPY
    Section 2TrainEbisu~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Nijubashimae0JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijubashimae~Tsukiji0JPY
    Section 5SubwayTsukiji~Asakusa0JPY
    Section 6SubwayAsakusa~Suehirocho0JPY
    Section 7TrainAkihabara~Shinjuku180JPY
    Section 8SubwayShinjuku-sanchome Station~Roppongi0JPY
    Total930JPY

    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

    Jul 10, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Beautiful Tour of Kamakura
    Seizo Kamiuto was out…

    Jun 9, 2026
    stacy_grana
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with an experienced guide
    Our guide, Seizo, was amazing.…

    Jun 6, 2026
    U9351HJjakes
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Seizo Kamiuto was great and super knowledgeable. He had a…

    May 20, 2026
    HugoJ670
    Tripadvisor review: Edo Tokyo & Japanese Culture Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Tokio in de zon
    Seizo Kaminto is een uitstekende…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 7:15 Meet @Machiya Ebisuya
    • 2. 8:10 @Arashiyama (Bamboo Grove・Tenryu-ji)
    • 3. 11:00 @Ryoan-ji
    • 4. 11:30 @Kinkaku-ji
    • 5. 12:15 @Obai-in
    • 6. 14:40 Disband @Nishiki Market

    What Is a Private History and Culture Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors who were enjoying SHOGUN. They had a strong interest in Japanese history and culture, so I introduced many topics. I explained the background leading up to the Tokugawa era, as well as stories about the historical figures who served as models for the characters appearing in SHOGUN. In particular, I was able to talk about how William Adams (Miura Anjin) ultimately could not return to his home country and passed away in Hirado, and how, precisely because of this, he is still beloved today. Since the guests mentioned that they would be heading to Osaka after Kyoto, I also talked about sightseeing in Osaka and the history of the Toyotomi Hideyoshi era. They listened very earnestly, and I may have been the one enjoying it the most myself. I explained how to enjoy Nishiki Market and how to stroll around after the tour, and then we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto Kawaramachi~Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 2TrainRanden Arashiyama~Ryoan-ji250JPY
    Section 3BusKinkaku-ji-michi~Daitoku-ji-mae230JPY
    Section 4SubwayKitaoji~Shijo260JPY
    Total980JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Imperial Palace East Gardens Otemon Gate-10:30 Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine-11:00 Fukagawa Fudodo Temple-12:20 Lunch-13:10 Disband at Coredo Nihonbashi

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Due to the hot and humid summer weather, we traveled entirely by taxi, which made for a comfortable day. During our breaks, I explained Japanese history and culture, and when we came to the topic of ninja and samurai, I made and gave them an origami "kabuto" helmet, which they were delighted to receive. In the Fukagawa area, the Hachiman Shrine had been lively with a festival that had ended only a few days earlier, and the guests enjoyed shaved ice and pineapple at the remaining food stalls. Although they had already tried a variety of Japanese dishes such as sushi, yakitori, and ramen, they mentioned they had not yet tasted delicious wagyu, so I took them to a restaurant specializing in "Omi beef," which they thoroughly enjoyed.

    Welcome to Japan. My name is Michio, your tour guide in Tokyo and Japan. I was born and grown up in Tokyo, and still living in western suburb of Tokyo with my wife, except for 10 years outside of Japan travelling and living in 60 countries. So I might have visited your country and still remember a few words.
    Japan has unique history, nature and culture, and there are plenty of secrets and wonders behind them such as food culture, Zen and Ninja.
    So please explore and discover the hidden and most beautiful part of Japan together. Let’s experience!

    Oct 25, 2025
    Carla_G
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking…
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking tour was fantastic! Michio…

    Oct 24, 2025
    410trishab
    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 10/10 — Outstanding Tour with Michio and Nobuhiko!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from…

    Oct 11, 2025
    GoPlaces52694049181
    We enjoyed our time in Tokyo with Michio our tour guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We…

    Oct 10, 2025
    PiscesV
    Sushi for breakfast at 630am? Yes please!!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

  • Wakayama in Half a Day: Okunoin by bus (510 yen) & Stay at Danjo Garan

    Wakayama in Half a Day: Okunoin by bus (510 yen) & Stay at Danjo Garan

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:25 Meeting (Since the customer changed to the 10:23 limited express at the last minute, we met at 10:25 and started the tour)
    • 10:25-10:50 Move to Okunoin by bus (510 yen)
    • 10:50-12:30 Stay at Okunoin
    • 12:30-13:30 Stay at Restaurant Hachiyo.
    • 13:34-13:40 Move to Senjuinbashi by bus (270 yen)
    • 13:40-13:55 Stay at Juzuya Shirobei
    • 14:00-14:40 Stay at Kongobuji
    • 14:45-15:05 Stay at Danjo Garan
    • 15:05-15:25 Move to Koyasan Station, disband (420 yen)

    Title: What Is a Private Day Trip to Koyasan Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests seemed tired after sightseeing in Osaka in the heat, so we changed to a later start in the morning. They were impressed by the cool climate of Koyasan (a high of 30 degrees Celsius). Since they seemed tired from walking as well, I guided them to Okunoin on a shorter course, and we also relaxed at a restaurant while viewing a photo exhibition of Koyasan. They enjoyed the graves of various companies, the old five-tiered stone pagodas, and the Jizo statues, and took many photos. At Kongobuji Temple, they enjoyed the rock garden, the sliding-door paintings, and a specially exhibited calligraphy show. Because we needed to catch a train in the 3 o'clock hour, our stay at the Garan was short, but we took photos in front of the Konpon Daito pagoda, and after I explained the Chumon gate, we returned to the station from the bus stop just outside. The guests had an interest in Japanese religion, so I explained the differences between Shinto and Buddhism, as well as esoteric Buddhism. They also wanted to try Japanese wagashi sweets and bought some as souvenirs.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKoyasan Station~Okunoin-mae510JPY
    Section 2BusOkunoin-mae~Senjuinbashi270JPY
    Section 3BusKondo-mae~Koyasan Station420JPY
    Total1,200JPY

    Hi! I’m an official English guide in Wakayama prefecture. I’m also a national guide as well. I’d like to expand my guide area to help tourists.
    The town of Osaka offers a different atmosphere than Tokyo. I like both exciting Osaka and nature-filled Wakayama Prefecture.
    If you stay in Osaka for 3 days, you can go to Koyasan for one day, or even for a day trip, so I recommend sightseeing at Koyasan.
    If you are tired of the hustle and bustle of the big city, the nature of Koyasan will relax you.
    I will introduce you to the unique culture, history and must-see sights.

    Jun 23, 2026
    Shelley_E
    Viator review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    There is much to do in…
    There is much to…

    May 28, 2026
    Duncan_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Great Tour of Kyoto
    The tour was both very informative and…

    May 28, 2026
    ignaciosilenzi
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Koyasan with Miyuki
    Miyuki was…

    May 23, 2026
    189mirjamf
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Grandioser Einblick in eine fremde Kultur
    Sehr nette und…

  • Takayama Local Food & Sake Culture Tour

    Takayama Local Food & Sake Culture Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Hotel 11:15 Hida Kokubunji Temple 11:30 Miyagawa Morning Market 12:30 Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine 13:45 Higashiyama Walking Trail 15:00 Hida Kokubunji Temple 15:50 Stop by the hotel
    • Break 16:40 Depart again 17:00 Disband at the restaurant

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Takayama Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a close-knit group visiting from North America. Since it was extremely hot despite the cloudy weather, I frequently suggested taking water breaks. I adjusted our walking pace as needed, with the final decisions left to one of the guests. The Miyagawa Morning Market was about to close, which made me a little anxious, but I was glad they were able to enjoy some pudding. We did not visit the Yatai Kaikan. The wind chime festival at Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine was very well received. On the Higashiyama Walking Trail, we visited only the key points and did not go to the inner shrine. The guests returned to the Hotel once for a break, and I waited in the lobby. Fortunately, a reservation for their dinner venue was available, so I escorted them to the restaurant. Everyone appeared to be in good health.

    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.

    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…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: @ Sumiyoshi Taisha & @ Dotonbori

    Osaka in Half a Day: @ Sumiyoshi Taisha & @ Dotonbori

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet @ Nankai Railway Namba Station
    • 10:15: @ Sumiyoshi Taisha
    • 11:30 @ Osaka Castle (exterior only)
    • 12:45 @ Dotonbori
    • 13:30 Dismiss @ Dotonbori

    Title: What Is a Private Osaka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Sumiyoshi Taisha and Dotonbori The guests were traveling as a group, and since their accommodation was near Kansai Airport, we arranged the meeting point at Namba Station on the Nankai Line, which could be reached in a single ride, and we met without any trouble. Although the day was again extraordinarily hot, we were able to move around smoothly. Neither of the guests seemed particularly interested in any specific spot, but they listened attentively to the guide's explanations. One of the guests eagerly took photos and videos. I later learned that one of the guests runs a business. Due to the high temperatures, we stopped frequently to stay hydrated. At Sumiyoshi Taisha, the guests offered their prayers, collected the small "Go-Dai-Riki" pebbles, and purchased protective charms. One of the guests drew an omikuji fortune slip and was delighted to get the best result, "Dai-kichi." I also helped purchase a JR train ticket at the nearest station, as one of the guests planned to travel later from Kyoto to Kinosaki Onsen in Hyogo Prefecture. Since the guests wanted to have lunch, I introduced a few restaurants in Dotonbori, and we then parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNamba~Sumiyoshi Taisha240JPY
    Section 2TrainSumiyoshi Taisha~Shin-Imamiya240JPY
    Section 3TrainShin-Imamiya~Morinomiya170JPY
    Section 4SubwayMorinomiya~Nippombashi240JPY
    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
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    Castle journey worth your time!
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    Diane_B
    Viator review: Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Yama was amazing!!
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    Navigator661725
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    A wonderful time!
    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Westin Miyako Kyoto & Ryoanji (600)

    Kyoto in One Day: Westin Miyako Kyoto & Ryoanji (600)

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Westin Miyako Kyoto
    • 09:40 Fushimiinari (0) by subway & Keihan train
    • 11:10 Kiyomizudera (500) by taxi
    • Sannenzaka by walking
    • Yasaka-no-to by walking
    • Lunch (Namaste Dhaulagiri)
    • 14:00 Kinkakuji (500) by taxi
    • 14:40 Ryoanji (600)
    • 15:30 Westin Miyako Kyoto
    • End of the tour

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour in Summer Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Both were very kind and pleasant. Since it was during the Obon holiday period, everywhere was crowded, and for Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the Kiyomizu-zaka slope was packed, so we approached from the back, which took extra time. From August 14 to 16 it is the Sennichi Mairi observance, so we were lucky to be able to view the back of the main hall, which is normally not open to visitors. However, because of the intense heat, one of the guests wanted to rest a little, so we sat down in the main hall for a short break. Since they had visited Gion the previous day, after lunch we went to Kinkaku-ji Temple. One of the guests seemed a little tired, but by walking slowly we managed to visit the final destination, Ryoan-ji Temple, safely, which was a relief. The outside temperature gauge in the taxi read 41°C. It was an extremely hot day, and many people were resting in the shade. One of the guests had been traveling between North America and Tokyo for work, while the other was visiting Japan for the first time and said they would love to come again.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKeage~Sanjo Keihan220JPY
    Section 2TrainSanjo~Fushimiinari220JPY
    Total440JPY

    I’m Ryoichi Kazuma and my nickname is “Kazz”. I live in Kyotanabe city next to Kyoto city. I want guests to enjoy Kyoto by seeing and experiencing not only from outside but also from inside. I offer various information from daily matters to traditional cultures. Most destinations in Kyoto are located on the eastern side or the western side. As I want to guide guests to as many destinations as possible, I make an efficient itinerary and recommend a taxi use to save time. Additionally, I take pictures at various spots and finally share the link to my storage. By doing so, guests can download their favorite pictures from my storage. Please enjoy Kyoto night and day!

    Jul 14, 2026
    T6871WWricharde
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kazz gave a great one on one 8 hour custom tour…

    Jun 5, 2026
    mateoe216
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Would book again
    The tour with Kazuma-san was absolutely great. As someone…

    May 27, 2026
    Leah_D
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely recommend!
    I definitely recommend seeing some of the sights with a…

    May 26, 2026
    sheilacL3330KS
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very enthusiastic and knowledgable guide. Much appreciated
    Kazz was an excellent guide…