Category: Uncategorized

  • Osaka in One Day: Explain itinerary and decide destination

    Osaka in One Day: Explain itinerary and decide destination

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Tempozan Osaka Cruise Terminal
    • 10:05 Explain itinerary and decide destination
    • 10:15 Move to Kyoto, using the Shinkansen (round trip) per customer's request
    • 11:15 Explain the history of Kyoto at the JR Kyoto Station Building Observation Deck
    • 12:10 Daitoku-ji Temple, Obai-in
    • 13:30 Lunch around Kawaramachi Rokkaku
    • 14:15 Stroll through Nishiki Market
    • 13:50 Gion Shinbashi, Tatsumibashi Bridge, Hanamikoji, Kaburenjo Theater, Yasui Konpiragu Shrine
    • 14:50 Ninenzaka, Sanneizaka, Yasaka Pagoda
    • 16:20 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 18:30 Disband at Tempozan Osaka Cruise Terminal

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like for Cruise Ship Passengers? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests came from Asia and were visiting Japan for the first time. This trip was a special commemorative journey for them. They were on an Asia cruise covering Tokyo, Shimizu, Kyoto, Osaka, Kochi, Nagasaki, and Busan, and since they had just spent two full days aboard the ship, they said they had plenty of stamina, so we started right away. We had been out of contact for a long time and only managed to connect at the last minute via a messaging app. On the day itself, we discussed the itinerary together. Their requests were to see Gion, Nishiki Market, and one shrine, plus a first-ever shinkansen ride at their request. We began the tour with a brief introduction to Kyoto's history from the observation space at the top of Kyoto Station. They told me that the karesansui dry landscape and Japanese gardens were very impressive, as such things do not exist anywhere in Southeast Asia. Since they often travel to Southeast Asian countries, they said they had honestly grown a little tired of Buddhist temples. They were unfamiliar with Zen and the Zen tradition, and they found the uniquely Japanese sense of wabi-sabi that grew out of Zen fascinating, describing it as a world somewhat different from yoga. The world of geiko and maiko in Gion also seemed mysterious to them, and it all started with the question of what Gion actually is. By the time we reached Fushimi Inari, the stamina they had started with was completely spent, and in the end we returned by shinkansen to Tempozan in Osaka and parted ways there. Right about now they are probably taking part in a food tour in Dotonbori, Osaka. I recommended the pork buns from 551 Horai, one of Osaka's soul foods.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOsaka Port~Shin-Osaka290JPY
    Section 2OtherShin-Osaka~Kyoto2,900JPY
    Section 3TrainShin-Osaka~Osaka Port290JPY
    Total3,480JPY

    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…

  • Osaka in One Day: Tenryu-ji Temple & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Osaka in One Day: Tenryu-ji Temple & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at Osaka Port
    • 10:15 Tenryu-ji Temple Garden
    • 10:40 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove ~ Nonomiya Shrine ~ Togetsukyo Bridge
    • 12:35 Lunch at Ukiya Pontocho Main Store
    • 13:40 Nijo Castle
    • 15:00 Nishiki Market
    • 16:05 Gion Tatsumi Bridge ~ Hanamikoji
    • 17:20 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 17:30 Disband at the entrance of Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report from Arashiyama to Fushimi Inari Today's guests were a group from North America who were enjoying a cruise ship journey. Although it was a Sunday, most places were relatively uncrowded, and it was cloudy all day, which made it very comfortable to get around. We first visited the Tenryu-ji garden and the bamboo grove in Arashiyama. Thanks to the rain the day before, the green of the bamboo grove was especially beautiful. After that, the guests enjoyed a soba lunch at a restaurant in Pontocho. We then went to Nijo Castle, and fortunately it was not too crowded, which made it easy to explain things. Next, we headed to Nishiki Market, which the guests had been very much looking forward to, and they enjoyed shopping there. We also strolled a little through Gion, and we parted ways upon arriving at Fushimi Inari Taisha. I believe they enjoyed themselves.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOsaka Port~Bentencho240JPY
    Section 2TrainBentencho~Saga-Arashiyama960JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)~Randen-Tenjingawa250JPY
    Section 4SubwayUzumasa-Tenjingawa~Sanjo-Keihan260JPY
    Section 5SubwaySanjo-Keihan~Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 6BusNijojo-mae / Kyoto City Bus~Shijo-Takakura / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 7BusShijo-Takakura / Kyoto City Bus~Shijo-Keihan-mae / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 8TrainGion-Shijo~Fushimi-Inari240JPY
    Total2,630JPY

    Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

    Jul 25, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Half-day with private guide in Kyoto
    We spent half a day…

    Jul 24, 2026
    J6711TVnancyb
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Family Fun Day in Kyoto with young children
    Kaeko Tanigawa was fantastic at helping us create…

    Jul 13, 2026
    elizabethtW414DU
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Private Tour
    Kaeko was absolutely amazing from start…

    Jul 12, 2026
    johnkE8649IH
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Kyoto Day Tour
    We had a wonderful experience touring Kyoto…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Omotesando

    Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Omotesando

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:02 Meet at the Shinkansen platform
    • 10:15 Board the Hiroshima Electric Railway
    • 10:30 Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
    • 11:20 Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
    • 12:45 Board taxi
    • 13:08 Board JR
    • 13:40 Board ferry
    • 14:00 Lunch
    • 15:00 Great Torii Gate, Itsukushima Shrine
    • 16:20 Omotesando
    • 17:10 Board ferry
    • 17:29 Board JR
    • 18:00 See-off at the Shinkansen gate of Hiroshima Station, tour ends

    What Is a Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America. Some of the guests were currently doing an internship in Kyoto, and the trip to Japan was arranged around that. Since they wished to spend plenty of time at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, we visited there first. Because high tide was in the afternoon, I had thought that afternoon would be the best time to visit Miyajima to see the Great Torii gate appearing to float on the sea, so the itinerary worked out perfectly. On Miyajima, the guests enjoyed sushi. Having never tried conger eel before, they chose it because they wanted to give it a try. They also bought momiji manju as souvenirs, had plenty of interaction with the deer, and thoroughly enjoyed Miyajima.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima~Genbaku Dome-mae240JPY
    Section 2TrainNishi-Hiroshima~Miyajimaguchi330JPY
    Section 3TrainMiyajimaguchi~Hiroshima420JPY
    Section 4OtherHiroshima~Hiroshima150JPY
    Total1,140JPY

    Embark on an unforgettable journey through Hiroshima Prefecture with a passionate and knowledgeable guide!

    As a certified interpreter guide based in Hiroshima, I offer you an exclusive and personalized experience. From the poignant history of Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park to the serene beauty of Miyajima Island, I will share captivating stories and insights that bring these iconic sites to life.

    My fluency in both English and Japanese ensures a seamless and enriching experience, bridging the gap between languages and cultures. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking to immerse yourself in Japanese culture, I tailor each tour to your interests and pace, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable adventure.

    Sep 11, 2026
    Louise_O
    Perfect day
    Viator review: Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    What a perfect way to spend a half day…

    Jun 22, 2026
    Rachel M
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Powerful day of one of the worst tragedies…

    Jun 5, 2026
    777mannyr
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima private tour
    Lisa Y. Did an amazing job.…

    May 25, 2026
    maryroses96
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Bloomers in Hiroshima
    We had a fantastic day with…

  • Kyoto: Fushimiinari & Seiryuden

    Kyoto: Fushimiinari & Seiryuden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Kyoto Station at the Central Exit of Shinkansen
    • Arriving at 10:43 am
    • 11:10 Fushimiinari
    • 12:30 Sanjusangendo
    • 13:30 Gion
    • Kenninji temple
    • 14:20 Kaburenjo
    •    Hanamikoji
    • Tatsumibashi
    • 15:00 Nanzenji
    • Suirokaku
    • 15:40 Seiryuden
    • 16:30 Kyoto Station leaving Kyoto at 5:00 pm
    • End of the tour

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Car Tour Like for Guests with Limited Walking? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. There was no reaction regarding the places they wanted to visit, so I had sent a tentative itinerary in advance. Since one of the guests had difficulty with knees and getting in and out of the car took some effort, I explained that Kiyomizu-dera Temple has many slopes and stairs, so we skipped it and went to Sanjusangendo instead. When I asked whether they wanted to have lunch during the tour, they said they would not, so we continued the tour as it was. As one of the guests had said they wanted to go to Gion, after Sanjusangendo we walked from Kennin-ji Temple along Hanamikoji Street. After Gion, I offered a choice between Kinkaku-ji Temple and Seiryu-den, but when I explained that Kinkaku-ji requires quite a lot of walking and has some stairs, they chose Seiryu-den. We drove through the torii gate of Heian Shrine, took photos at the Sanmon Gate and the Suirokaku aqueduct of Nanzen-ji Temple, and then went to Seiryu-den. The guests had originally wanted to visit Japan for a special trip long ago but had gone to Europe instead, and now, coming to Japan after 41 years, they were very delighted.

    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!

    Sep 25, 2026
    Marvin_F
    Kazz is an outstanding…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Kazz is an outstanding experiencedand friendly…

    Sep 21, 2026
    Laura_K
    Day in Kyoto with Kazz
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazz was an amazing…

    Aug 27, 2026
    M6034YWthomasm
    Worth it
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    The day went by so quickly, a…

    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Awesome experience
    Tour guide Kazz was great. Very informative and showed…

  • Hyogo in One Day: Akashi Kaikyo Bridge & Motomachi Shopping Street

    Hyogo in One Day: Akashi Kaikyo Bridge & Motomachi Shopping Street

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:45 Meet @ Kobe Port Terminal
    • 09:30 @ Akashi Kaikyo Bridge (including shopping at nearby supermarket and bakery)
    • 12:00 @ Nunobiki Herb Garden (exterior only)
    • 12:30 @ Nankinmachi Chinatown
    • 13:45 @ Motomachi Shopping Street
    • 14:15 Dismiss @ Tor Road "MUJI"

    What Is a Private Kobe Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Nankinmachi, and Kobe Beef The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. One of the guests had difficulty walking and used a walker, so we proceeded at a very relaxed pace with rest breaks throughout the day. At the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, we were blessed with good weather, and the guests appeared very satisfied with the magnificent scenery, which included views of Awaji Island. Afterward, the guests purchased Japanese food items as souvenirs (furikake, candy, chocolate, and so on), and since they were a little hungry, they also bought some sweet buns at a local bakery nearby. Unfortunately, the Nunobiki Herb Garden we visited next had suspended its ropeway service due to strong winds, so we had to give up on that plan and headed to our next spot, Nankinmachi. In Nankinmachi, the guests enjoyed Kobe beef and pork buns at a shop said to be the originator of the pork bun. After that, we had some time to spare, which was spent on various shopping for items such as sports shoes and cosmetics. As one of the guests was tired, I guided them to the shuttle bus bound for the passenger ship terminal adjacent to Nankinmachi so they could return early. The other guest wished to continue shopping alone and asked about the locations of Muji, Uniqlo, and Don Quijote, so I explained where these stores were, and we parted ways with about an hour remaining. I presented each of the guests with a handmade drawstring pouch, which they were very pleased to receive. Note) Today the Nunobiki Herb Garden we visited had its ropeway service suspended due to strong winds and was closed, so I felt sorry that I could not provide sufficient information to the guests. There was not much wind impact at ground level, but apparently there were considerable winds near the mountaintop. In the future, I think it may be necessary to contact the site to confirm before visiting, though as this is a matter of weather, it is difficult to predict.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainPort Terminal~Sannomiya (Kobe New Transit)210JPY
    Section 2TrainSannomiya~Maiko320JPY
    Section 3TrainMaiko~Sannomiya320JPY
    Section 4SubwaySannomiya (Kobe Municipal)~Shin-Kobe210JPY
    Total1,060JPY

    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

    Sep 27, 2026
    Ross_W
    Fun with Hidden Gems
    Viator review: Osaka Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour, Licensed Guide
    Our guide Yama was so…

    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Great experience
    Yama was great, he showed us around and explained…

    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…

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8∶45meet9:07 depart Gora by train to Hakone Open-Air Museum, enter at 9∶30. After a stroll, take the bus at 11:06 via Kowakien to Hakone Checkpoint Ruins 12:00 Maruyama Bussan shopping Donburi Chaya lunch stroll along Lake Ashi shore 14: 25 pirate ship 15 :05 Togendai by ropeway to Owakudani, ropeway to Sounzan Station 16: 30 by cable car arrive Gora Station at 16: 41 dismiss

    What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour Like for a Group? A Licensed Guide's Report The group consisted of nine guests visiting together. The group gradually grew comfortable with me and became lively, even offering me candy. It was rainy at the Hakone Open-Air Museum, but the guests were full of energy, and once again it took some effort to get everyone to finish at the jungle gym. The parquet woodwork presentation at Maruyama was as popular as ever, met with applause and shopping. At a donburi restaurant, one of the guests ordered nigiri sushi, and I was worried whether it could be finished, but it was polished off in no time, which surprised me. From the boat, we could miraculously see Mount Fuji, which was also a surprise. The ropeway was a fine finish, letting the guests enjoy the great outdoors.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOdawara Station~Odawara Station6,000JPY
    Total6,000JPY

    I am Hiroki Morikawa :Hiro:, English guide living with my wife ,just a hop skip and jump from Hakone, Kamakura, Tokyo and the Mt. Fuji.
    I am a friendly grandfather of 4 grandchildren.
    I would love to help you enjoy Japan, using my 3 strong points.
    First: I am used to dealing with any kind of matters. I have experienced various situations in the 40 years of my working life.
    Second: I am good at making a friendly atmosphere between you and local people to help you enjoy Japan. I was raised in western Japan, studied in northern Japan and now live in central Japan. So I know various local cultures and dialects to communicate with a wide variety of people.
    Third: I can explain things from a technical point of view.
    For example, how the Great Buddha was constructed, because I am a master of engineering graduated from Hokkaido University.
    Please enjoy Japan with me. See you soon!!
    dummy

    Aug 24, 2026
    Deb_K
    Viator review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Well organised tour
    Hiro is obviously an experienced guide.…

    Aug 6, 2026
    Marcus_J
    Viator review: Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing day with…
    Had an amazing day with Hiro.…

    Jun 30, 2026
    G2432BLtimothyc
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Full Day Tour with Guide and Vehicle
    6 hour tour of Hakone
    we had a great experience with…

    Jun 25, 2026
    T7734IPbrandons
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in hakone
    Niro was perfect for us. He was…

  • Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Private Car Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Private Car Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 10:00 Tour starts from Osaka Port
    • Travel to Kinkaku-ji
    • AM 11:30 – PM 12:15 Kinkaku-ji tour
    • Travel to Kiyomizu-dera
    • PM 12:45-13:45 From Kiyomizu-dera to Yasaka Pagoda
    • Travel to Kobe beef restaurant in Gion
    • PM 14:00 – 15:30 Guests have lunch at a teppanyaki restaurant in Gion
    • Travel through Gion area: Shinbashi, Shirakawa, Hanamikoji, guided from the vehicle PM 15:30-16:00
    • Travel to Osaka, from Osaka Castle via Dotonbori to Osaka Port PM 17:30 Arrival Tour ends

    What Is a Private Kyoto and Osaka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. The day before the tour, they requested that a restaurant reservation they had made for 2:00 PM in Gion (a Kobe beef teppanyaki restaurant) be included in the tour, so we adjusted the plans on short notice, canceling the visit to Arashiyama and the bamboo grove to accommodate it. Since walking for long distances was difficult for some of the guests, we did not follow the usual route at Kinkaku-ji Temple and turned back partway. At Kiyomizu-dera Temple as well, we took photos from the front and then enjoyed shopping along Sannenzaka toward Yasaka Pagoda. It was a little unfortunate that we had not received advance information about the difficulty with walking, but at the end we enjoyed the area around Gion from the car, as well as the drive toward Osaka Port passing near Osaka Castle, Midosuji, and Dotonbori.

    Hello , My name is Hideharu Yoshino . Just call me” Yoshi” .
    I have been involved with many foreign Business partners through my business life for 38 years ,
    Based on my work experience , I would like to try my best to make you comfortale and Happy fruitful times during your stay in Japan .
    Not only giving you basic tourist information about famous sightseeing spot , also I would enjoy to give you the back ground inofrmation in my word.
    ” Once in a lifetime encounter ” Let’s enjoy with me Miracle time to be picked up from 6 billion in somewhere Japan!

    Sep 29, 2026
    matthewsY2654UC
    Highly recommended!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Yoshi is an exceptional guide where he took us…

    Sep 28, 2026
    751juergend
    Perfect day in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the perfect guide, very…

    Sep 27, 2026
    karen_f
    YOSHI san was incredible!
    Viator review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    YOSHI met us at our…

    Sep 19, 2026
    Plumb72
    A morning in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a fab tour with Yoshi…

  • Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:00 Meet @ Himeji Station Central Ticket Gate
    • 2. 09:05 @ Castle View
    • 3. 09:30 @ Himeji Castle (Nishinomaru Hyakken Corridor, Main Keep)
    • 4. 12:00 Short break @ Otemon Chaya
    • 5. 12:20 @ Koko-en Garden
    • 6. 13:00 Disband @ Egret Himeji (Rooftop)

    What Is a Private Himeji Castle Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. When the guide arrived at the meeting point before the scheduled time, the guests were already there. They had been staying at a hotel near the station, so we were able to start the tour a little earlier than planned. After meeting, we visited Castle View, then Himeji Castle (the Nishinomaru Hyakken Corridor and the Main Keep). After a short break at the Otemon Chaya teahouse, we continued to Koko-en Garden and Egret Himeji (the rooftop), ending the tour on the rooftop of Egret Himeji. Today was the Sunday of the second day of the "Himeji Yukata Festival," so both Himeji Castle and Koko-en Garden were crowded with tourists. Even so, since the guests had digital tickets, sightseeing went smoothly. Himeji Castle seen from the rooftop of Egret Himeji was also magnificent, and the guests were very pleased.

    Hello, my name is Norio Oki, a Government-Certified Tour Guide in Japan.
    I specialize in guiding visitors through the beautiful and historic regions of Himeji and Kobe.

    My expertise includes Japanese history, traditional culture, castles, and sake. I enjoy sharing not only facts, but also the stories and spirit behind each place.

    In Himeji, I offer guided tours of Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden, Shoshazan Engyoji Temple, and Nadagiku Sake Brewery.
    In Kobe, I guide guests through the Nada Sake Breweries area, Mt. Rokko, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, Harborland, Meriken Park, the Kitano District, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, and the lively Motomachi Shopping Street.

    Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local experiences, I will create a personalized tour tailored to your interests.

    If you’re planning to visit Himeji or Kobe, I would be delighted to be your guide.
    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Sep 29, 2026
    X
    X1794ZGstevew
    Kobe 4hr guided tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Norio pickup us up ontime &…

    Sep 17, 2026
    jacquelinecI8863UY
    No rush beautiful walking tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a wonderful time. Norio…

    Sep 15, 2026
    niy679
    Kobe day trip
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had an amazing tour with Norio. He…

    Jul 7, 2026
    77guye
    The best way to experience Himeji Castle
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    What a great way to…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo & Kanmangafuchi

    Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo & Kanmangafuchi

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00     Meet the guests at Tobu Nikko Station
    • Travel to Shinkyo by bus
    • 11:20~11:30 Shinkyo sightseeing
    • 11:30~12:30 Lunch
    • 12:30~14:30 Toshogu sightseeing
    • 14:30~15:00 Taiyuin sightseeing
    • Walk to Kanmangafuchi
    • 15:30~15:50 Kanmangafuchi sightseeing
    • Walk to Shinkyo
    • Travel from Shinkyo to JR Nikko Station
    • 17:00     Disband at JR Nikko Station

    What Can You See on a Private Day Tour of Nikko? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests' requests were to visit Kanmangafuchi Abyss and Taiyuin, leaving the rest of the itinerary up to me. For this reason, I planned the tour around Toshogu Shrine, the highlight of Nikko, and suggested adding the Shinkyo Bridge. Since the day was a Sunday, I also recommended a restaurant within the World Heritage area. After meeting the guests at Tobu Nikko Station, we immediately visited the Shinkyo Bridge and then headed to the restaurant. The guests thoroughly enjoyed the lovely restaurant surrounded by forest and its garden, and I felt it was as if they were preparing themselves for the mystical Nikko tour that was about to begin. In the afternoon, we first spent two hours enjoying Toshogu Shrine. As it is truly the highlight of Nikko, they seemed amazed by its beauty. After that, I guided them to Taiyuin and explained its relationship with Toshogu Shrine and the interesting contrast between the two. The guests listened very attentively and seemed to enjoy it fully. I believe this Nikko tour became an unforgettable day for the guests.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusTobu Nikko Station/Tobu Bus~Shinkyo/Tobu Bus220JPY
    Section 2TrainShinkyo/Tobu Bus~JR Nikko Station/Tobu Bus220JPY
    Total440JPY

    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.

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  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①12:00 Meet at the hotel, take a taxi to Hatsudai Station. Go to Gotokuji via the Keio Line and Setagaya Line.
    • ②12:50〜13:30 Gotokuji Temple
    • ③13:30〜14:30 After stopping by Setagaya Hachimangu Shrine, take the Setagaya Line and Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line to Shibuya.
    • ④14:30〜15:10 Shibuya Crossing
    • ⑤15:20〜17:00 After Meiji Shrine (lunch, worship), take the JR to Ueno.
    • ⑥18:00 Escort to Ueno National Museum, enter, and disband.

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Gotokuji, Shibuya, and Meiji Shrine The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. After sightseeing at Gotokuji Temple, Shibuya, and Meiji Shrine as they had requested in advance, I saw them off at the Tokyo National Museum in Ueno, ending the tour. They planned to explore the museum on their own and then return to their hotel in Shinjuku. Although the weather was unfortunately rainy throughout the day, the group walked energetically and enjoyed their first sightseeing experience in Tokyo. Their favorite spots differed within the group, but one of them was especially fond of Shibuya and expressed a wish to visit Shibuya and Takeshita Street in Harajuku again on another day. (The photo shows only some of the guests.)

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHatsudai~Shimotakaido160JPY
    Section 2TrainShimotakaido~Miyanosaka160JPY
    Section 3OtherMiyanosaka~Sangenjaya160JPY
    Section 4OtherSangenjaya~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 5TrainShibuya~Harajuku160JPY
    Section 6OtherHarajuku~Ueno260JPY
    Total1,080JPY

    Hello! I am Osamu Kitagawa , National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter(English). Please call me SAM.
    I love Japanese culture, history, and visiting historical places, scenic spots, and fashionable spots as well. I can guide you all over Japan as I have ever visited all prefectures in Japan. I have a global experience in international banking business including residing in Hong Kong and Jakarta. So I’m able to have daily conversations in Indonesian language, too. I’m looking forward to seeing you soon!

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    Kyoto Expert Certification

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