Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:25 Meet up @ Hotel Tokyu
    • 2. 10:45 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 11:30 Stay @ Asakusa
    • 4. 12:50 Lunch @ Asakusa Shokudo Motomatsu
    • 5. 13:30 Travel: Subway
    • 6. 14:05 Stay @ Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 7. 15:00 Travel: Subway
    • 8. 15:20 Stay @ Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 9. 17:10 Travel: Train (JR)
    • 10. 17:20 Disband @ Hotel Tokyu

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Higashi Gyoen and Harajuku I had been in contact with the guests via a messaging app from an early stage. They had a great many questions, and I was not able to answer all of them, so I was a little worried they might have felt put off. However, when we met in person, I was able to hear directly about the aspects of traveling in Japan that concerned them, and I feel we were able to communicate well from then on. One of the spots requested in advance was Koishikawa Korakuen, and the guests seemed to be planning to visit the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace the following Friday. Since the East Gardens are closed on Fridays, I informed them of this and guided them to the East Gardens instead of Koishikawa Korakuen. When guiding guests through Harajuku, I usually spend around one hour, but the guests became so absorbed in shopping that we ended up staying for about two hours, which also delayed the end time of the tour. Since there was a request to be shown the easiest way to travel back and forth between the accommodation in Shibuya and Harajuku, I used the Yamanote Line only at the very end, when seeing them back to the Hotel.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassShibuya Station～Asakusa Station600JPY
    Section 2Free PassAsakusa Station～Otemachi Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassOtemachi Station～Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku Station～Shibuya Station150JPY
    Total750JPY

    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.

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    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…

  • Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • Tobu Nikko Station → Shinkyo Bridge → Toshogu Shrine → Futarasan Shrine → Nishi-Sando Chaya (lunch) → Kegon Falls → Tobu Nikko Station

    Title: What Is a Private Nikko Day Tour Like When Guests Arrive Late? A Licensed Guide's Report I was told the group would be six, but in fact the group arrived, and their arrival was close to 12:30, about two hours behind schedule. I pushed the tour back so it would run until 18:00. Since they very much wanted to see Kegon Falls as well, we toured from the Shinkyo Bridge and Toshogu Shrine area through to Oku-Nikko. It was a tight schedule, but I kept everything as compact as possible to meet their requests. I helped them purchase their return tickets at the meeting time, so they were able to head home without any trouble. As I have noted before, for tours meeting in Nikko, I feel the listing page should state the travel time by public transportation from Tokyo and that it is difficult to buy weekend limited express tickets on the day itself. This time I recommended in advance by email that the guests purchase their tickets ahead of time, but in the end they bought them on the day, which resulted in a significant delay.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusTobu Nikko Station～Chuzenji Onsen2,300JPY
    Total2,300JPY

    Tour Report by Yasu

    Hello, I’m your guide Yasu.

    I’m very happy to be able to help you experience Japanese culture, traditions, tourist attractions, and Japanese food.

    I have guided tours of Tokyo’s sightseeing spot such as Asakusa, The Imperial Palace, and Meiji Shrine.

    I have also guided tours in the surrounding areas of Nikko and Hakone to experience Japanese nature and culture.

    I also specialize in food tours in the Tsukiji and Ueno areas of Tokyo.

    As for my background, I worked at a major Japanese department store for many years, and from that experience I have knowledge of Japanese art, paintings, and crafts.

    In addition, in my free time, my hobby is visiting resorts with my family that are not tourist spots, and I am able to introduce such hidden resorts even to customers who have stayed in Japan multiple times.

    I would be happy to share my experiences with you and help you have a meaningful travel experience.

    Let’s go exploring the real Japan together.

    Kind Regards,
    Yasu Komatsu

    Request Booking

    Mar 26, 2026
    Tiffany_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Day in Tokyo
    Yasu was a fantastic tour guide for our…

    Oct 13, 2025
    irtrips
    Wonderful day in Nikko with Yasu
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We spent a wonderful day in…

    May 22, 2024
    Alisha_M
    You are lucky when you get Yasu as Guide!
    Viator review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Booking was easy.…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: @ Osaka Castle (exterior only) & @ Shinsekai

    Osaka in Half a Day: @ Osaka Castle (exterior only) & @ Shinsekai

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet @ Hotel
    • 10:00 @ Osaka Castle (exterior only)
    • 11:30 @ Kuromon Market
    • 12:45 @ Shinsekai
    • 13:15 Disband @ Shinsekai

    Title: What Is a Private Osaka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Kuromon Market, and Shinsekai The guests were a group visiting Osaka. Although the weather was unfortunately poor, there were fewer crowds, so we were able to move around smoothly. Due to time constraints related to travel between sites, we viewed Osaka Castle only from the outside. At the JR station nearest to Osaka Castle, the guests purchased some sweet buns for a late-night snack at a bakery recommended by the guide. At Kuromon Market, the guests explored with great enjoyment, interest, and enthusiasm, sampling many items such as strawberries, sweet potato chips, black bean tea, and dried fruits, and also bought souvenirs. In Shinsekai, the guests wished to have a meal, so I showed them to a restaurant and assisted with ordering, after which we parted ways. In addition, the guests had researched online and wished to visit a specialty knife shop in Shinsekai, so I guided them there and helped them confirm its location (they planned to visit it after their meal).

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTennoji～Morinomiya170JPY
    Section 2SubwayMorinomiya～Nippombashi240JPY
    Section 3SubwayNippombashi～Dobutsuen-mae190JPY
    Total600JPY

    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…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: 12-10 @ Hozenji Temple & @ Kuromon Market

    Osaka in Half a Day: 12-10 @ Hozenji Temple & @ Kuromon Market

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Meet @ Hotel Forza Osaka Namba Dotombori
    • 12:05-12-10 @ Hozenji Temple
    • 12:30-12:45 @ Namba Yasaka Shrine
    • 13:00-13:15 @ Shinsekai
    • 13:40-13:50 @ Abeno Harukas
    • 14:15-15:15 @ Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
    • 16:10-16:20 @ Kuromon Market
    • 16:30 Dismissal @ National Bunraku Theatre

    Title: What Is a Private Osaka Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Sumiyoshi Taisha The guests were visitors from North America who came to Japan for a trip. They had just arrived in Osaka from Okinawa on the day of the tour, but they energetically enjoyed exploring the city. At Sumiyoshi Taisha, the guests were fortunate enough to have the chance to witness a special religious ceremony held only twice a year, and it was memorable to see them offer a special prayer to the deity associated with harmonious relationships. Despite the forecast of rain, it did not rain during the tour, which I thought might have been thanks to the guests' good conduct. They planned to visit Osaka Castle and Shitenno-ji Temple on their own the next day. Since rain was forecast, I introduced some activities that could be enjoyed even in the rain before we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayDaikokucho～Dobutsuen-mae190JPY
    Section 2TrainTennoji-ekimae～Sumiyoshitorii-mae230JPY
    Section 3TrainSumiyoshi Taisha～Nankai Namba240JPY
    Total660JPY

    Tour Report by Sachiko

    I’m Sahiko Ogura, Sachiko literally means ‘happy child’, please call me Sachiko or Sachi for short. I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been guide for 6 years mainly in Osaka, Kyoto and Nara after having worked far trading company. I love traveling and visited about 30 countries, where I had a great time and experienced something new and exciting. I also like sports, tea ceremony and gardening, I’m growing veritable and flower in my garden. Please let me know your interest and anything what you would like to do during your tour. I’m happy to make an itinerary customized for you.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you and exploring in my home town!

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    Jul 30, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We spent half…

    Jul 12, 2026
    angiegI1120DY
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great tour! Great guide!
    Sachi was a great guide. She customized…

    Jul 8, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    We Miss Osaka Already
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sachiko O. was our guide…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Relax64382499520
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A memorable experience!
    Wonderful experience with an amazing guide! Ms. Sachiko Ogura,…

  • Nara in One Day: Himuro Shrine & Ukimido Hall

    Nara in One Day: Himuro Shrine & Ukimido Hall

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:52 Kintetsu-Nara Station (Start of Tour)
    • walk for 5 minutes
    • 9:00-30 Kofukuji Temple & its Museum
    • walk for 15 minutes while feeding and playing with deer
    • 10:00 Himuro Shrine
    • 10:05-20 Yoshikien Garden (
    • walk for 5 minutes
    • 10:30 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate)
    • walk for 5 minutes
    • 10:40-11:20 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall
    • walk for 5 minutes
    • 11:30 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower
    • walk for 5 minutes
    • 11:45-12:15 Emado Chaya lunch
    • 12:20-40 Todaiji's Nigatsudo Hall
    • walk for 10 minutes
    • 13:00-30 Kasuga-taisha Shrine
    • walk for 10 minutes
    • 13:40 Ukimido Hall
    • walk for 10 minutes
    • 14:00-40 Nara-machi (Old Quarters of the town)
    • 15:00 Sanjo-dori Nakatanido (End of Tour)

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Nara from Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report During our first exchange, it became clear that the plan was to leave Kyoto in the morning, take a Nara tour, and then head to a hotel in Osaka. When I asked, "What about your luggage, then?" the reply was, "Oh, I hadn't thought about that!" Thanks to that kind of back-and-forth, the morning we met did not feel like a first meeting at all. A moderate amount of rain turned out to be a real stroke of luck, letting us avoid both the blazing heat of a scorching summer day and overly large crowds of tourists. To keep the group entertained, I offered various quizzes along the way, which seemed to work well. One of the guests said they would love to come back again to see the deer.

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

    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.

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    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…

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

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • １．１０：００ Meet at Kazusaya in Shin-Nihombashi
    • ２．１０：３０ Nezu Shrine
    • ３．１１：００ Yanaka
    • ４．１２：００ Lunch Yanaka Soba
    • ５．１３：３０ Asakusa Sensoji Temple and Nakamise
    • ６．１４：３０ Kappabashi Kitchenware Street
    • ７．１５：４５ Akihabara
    • ８．１６：００ Disband at Akihabara

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo's Old Town (Yanaka, Asakusa, Akihabara) Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Under a break in the rainy season, following a request to explore Tokyo's old downtown area, the guests enjoyed daifuku and mitarashi dango at a dango shop on the way to Nezu Shrine. Afterward, we strolled through the temple district of Yanaka, and the guests were fascinated by its relaxed atmosphere despite being only three stations away from Otemachi in the city center. Since the guests wished to try soba, a traditional Japanese dish, we relaxed at a familiar, comfortable soba restaurant. We then traveled by taxi to Asakusa, where the guests appreciated the finest examples of Buddhist architecture, and continued to Kappabashi Kitchen Town, where they bought souvenirs including a sake tokkuri flask and guinomi cups. We explored Akihabara before parting ways. The guests were very pleased, saying they had spent a wonderful first day in Japan.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassMitsukoshimae～Nezu600JPY
    Section 2Free PassAsakusa～Tawaramachi0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTawaramachi～Suehirocho0JPY
    Total600JPY

    Tour Report by Kei

    Born and raised in Tokyo a half-century ago, I have lived in Tokyo all my life except for one year in the UK to study for a master’s course. I am a Tokyo Native with viewpoints based on broader local knowledge than anyone else. I have specialised in Japanese history, culture, and architecture since I was an architect.
    Also, I am a foodie emphasising Japanese traditional & healthy foods. I’ve been to many countries around the world, such as the US, Central America, Europe, and Asia. As such, I believe I can anticipate the needs of foreign tourists in Japan.

    Despite my experience as a guide for just two years, we can make the best out of our tour by travelling from your hotel to spots time-efficiently with my local knowledge, while accommodating your unexpected requests during the tour.
    My strong area includes Yanesen; Old Temples in a Quaint Village, Kamakura, Asakusa Sensoji, Meiji Shrine and Imperial Palace. All give you peace of mind.

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    Oct 22, 2025
    I5562SWphilipk
    Great intro to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kei was a genial and knowledgeable host, who…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Gary H
    Great tour of Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We loved our tour! Our guide was…

    Oct 5, 2025
    C
    Cindy_S
    Had one day in Tokyo and…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Had one day in Tokyo…

    Sep 15, 2025
    chrishN2970OC
    A highly enjoyable tour of Tokyo with knowledgeable local guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had…

  • Hiroshima: Travel by bus to the Museum & Shukkeien Garden

    Hiroshima: Travel by bus to the Museum & Shukkeien Garden

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00　Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 10:20　Travel by bus to the Museum
    • 10:40　Arrive at the Museum
    • 　　　　Museum, tour of the monuments
    • 13:00　After the monument tour, head to Shukkeien Garden
    • 13:30　Arrive at Shukkeien Garden
    • 14:00　After touring Shukkeien Garden, head to Okonomi-mura
    • 14:30　Disband at Okonomi-mura

    What Is a Private Hiroshima Tour Like for a Family from Overseas? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from North America. Since they came from a place near where a major historical scientific project had been carried out, they looked at the related exhibits with great interest. One question I received was, "Do people in Hiroshima still hold hatred toward the country?" I answered, "It varies from person to person, but there is a concept in Japanese culture of 'letting the past flow away like water.' Rather than holding onto resentment over past events, there is a strong tendency to look forward positively toward the future." As part of the group was quite young, I made time to guide them through Shukkeien Garden. They were very delighted with feeding the carp.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHiroshima Station～Museum220JPY
    Section 2TrainAtomic Bomb Dome～Shukkeien Garden220JPY
    Section 3TrainShukkeien Garden～Hatchobori160JPY
    Total600JPY

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Kagoshima Shore Excursion: Custom Car Tour

    Kagoshima Shore Excursion: Custom Car Tour

    Kagoshima Shore Excursion: Custom Car Tour, Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • (1) 10:15 Meet up @ Marine Port Kagoshima (1-10 Chuo-ko Shinmachi, Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture)
    • (2) 10:50 Sengan-en
    • ※Admission reserved / Cultural experience per guest's request (30 min) → Palace tour → Lunch @ Sengan-en Saryo
    • (3) 13:30 Sakurajima Ferry
    • (4) 14:20 Yunohira Observatory
    • (5) 15:00 Kurokami Buried Torii
    • (4) 15:50 Tenmonkan
    • (5) 16:40 Dismissal @ Shuttle bus stop for Cruise Terminal (5-4 Honko Shinmachi, Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture)

    What Is a Private Cruise Port Tour of Kagoshima and Sakurajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The group of guests, visiting from North America, arrived on a cruise ship at Kagoshima. Their advance request was for a "cultural experience." During earlier communication, I had suggested options such as a sand steam bath, but access and timing made it difficult, so we set that aside. After that, contact with the agency was lost, and with the help of [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) staff in confirming the meeting point, I continued adjusting arrangements right up until just before the tour day, finally managing to re-establish contact with the guests and share the itinerary. It was a relief that I was standing by at the cruise ship terminal an hour and a half before the meeting time. I met the guests 50 minutes earlier than scheduled (and was also able to meet the driver of the vehicle the guests had reserved), explained the itinerary once more, and started the tour. First, the guests enjoyed a cultural experience for about 30 minutes at the scenic Sengan-en garden, making original accessories from fragments of Satsuma Kiriko cut glass. According to conversations via a messaging app before meeting and during the drive, the guests said, "Two days ago we sightsaw in Nagasaki in a downpour, and the day before we enjoyed temple-and-shrine hiking and scuba diving on Jeju Island in Korea, but we are tired, and since it's raining today, we'd like to take it easy." After the cultural experience, I guided them through the interior of the former Shimazu family villa, the Goten. The guests already had some knowledge of Japanese history from their time in Nagasaki, so I explained the connection between the Shimazu family and the Imperial family, the features of each room, and let them take their time viewing the inner garden. I showed them brand halls featuring Satsuma Kiriko, Satsuma ware, and Yakusugi cedar products, and then we had lunch at the garden café. After explaining the full menu in advance, the guests ordered the "keihan set" originating from Amami Oshima, and the "Kagoshima tea (5 varieties) and Japanese sweets set." The keihan, in which five or six toppings are placed on rice and then dashi broth is poured over it, seemed fresh and new to them, and they were delighted with the novel experience. They also enjoyed the different flavors of each tea. After that, they took a quick look at the souvenir shop and returned to the car. The rain came and went, and Sakurajima finally revealed itself. Wanting them to try karukan, a famous local confection I had mentioned during the drive from the terminal, I offered guide-selected karukan buns to the driver and the guests to taste. During the Sakurajima ferry ride (15 minutes on board), one of the guests polished off the ferry's specialty soba noodles! When we reached the Yunohira Observatory, it started raining again and the summit was in the clouds. To make the most of it, we drove along the exposed lava road formed by the large amounts of lava that flowed out during the great eruption of 1914, and I guided them to the Kurokami buried torii gate, still half-submerged by the massive ashfall of that time, but the rain was pouring. I actually guided one of the guests to the torii, while the others took a restroom break or viewed it from the car window. On the way to Sakurajima Port, when I told them that the final visit to "Amami no Sato" would be difficult time-wise, one of the guests said, "If you drop us off at Dolphin Port in the city center, we can shop at the mall there and catch the free shuttle bus to the cruise terminal. We can part ways there." However, the shopping mall at Dolphin Port had closed several years earlier, so I recommended visiting the Tenmonkan downtown area if they wished to shop, and they got out of the vehicle there. Yet, perhaps because it didn't match their image, they didn't buy anything in particular at the souvenir shops, and at the guests' request we traveled by streetcar and on foot to Dolphin Port, arriving safely at the shuttle bus stop for the cruise terminal, where we parted ways.

    Click here for more details: Kagoshima Shore Excursion: Custom Car Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1FerryKagoshima Port～Sakurajima Port400JPY
    Section 2TrainTenmonkan-dori～Asahi-dori170JPY
    Total570JPY

    Tour Report by Tachi

    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!

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

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

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Pick up at Hotel　11:10 Miyajima, Omotesando　11:40 Lunch　12:30 Great Torii Gate, Itsukushima Shrine　15:20 Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Park, Museum
    • 17:00 Dismissal at the museum exit

    When Doing a Private Miyajima Tour from Hiroshima, What Is It Like? A Licensed Guide's Report When I met the group in the Hotel lobby, the group turned out to be larger than the number confirmed at the time of booking. The guests were visiting from Asia, and one of them spoke English. The first request when we met was that they wanted to eat oyster dishes. Moreover, they wished to have a meal before sightseeing right after arriving at the Miyajima pier, so we went into a restaurant. Since it was just before noon, the waiting time was short and we were able to be seated quickly, and everyone seemed very satisfied. One of the guests kindly interpreted (English to Mandarin) and carefully conveyed what I said to the rest of the group.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainJR Hiroshima Station～JR Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2TrainHiroden Miyajimaguchi～Hiroden Genbaku Dome-mae270JPY
    Total690JPY

    Tour Report by Shin

    I have been an English and Italian guide for 10 years in Hiroshima, Miyajima, Okayama, Kurashiki, Iwakuni, Himeji, Osaka, Kochi and Sanin. I used to work for the Japanese trading house in Milan Italy for 9 years, Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam for 2 years and Kobe /Osaka for 25 years. I was engaged in the textile and apparel division covering European and Asian market. Moreover, I worked for a food company who produce special sauce for okonomiyaki, famous local food. After retiring, I live in Hiroshima, my hometown, working as a tourist guide mainly, sometimes as an Italian interpreter for A-bomb survivor testimonies and translation. I guide you about history, culture, architecture, art, industry, economy and so on according to your interests and wishes. My hobby is oil painting of the scenery of the Inland Sea of Seto, the first national park of Japan and visiting art museum. I am interested in impressionists and works during renaissance.

    Request Booking

    Mar 21, 2025
    Carol B
    Peaceful Tour with Kind Local
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Relaxed tour with…

    Dec 10, 2024
    Catherine_U
    Great Half Day with Shin!
    Viator review: Miyajima Half-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We enjoyed our half day tour…

    Dec 8, 2024
    William W
    11/10 Great Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Mr. Itaki, is…

    Oct 7, 2024
    Shiv_K
    We had a lovely visit of…
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We had a…

  • Hiroshima: Hotel (taxi) & Hiroshima Castle

    Hiroshima: Hotel (taxi) & Hiroshima Castle

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:45　Hotel (taxi)
    • 9:00 　Arrive at Peace Memorial Park
    • 　　　Tour the Peace Memorial Museum
    • 　　　G7 Summit Memorial Hall ~ Atomic Bomb Ruins Exhibition Hall ~ Cenotaph for the A-bomb Victims
    • 　　　Tour the Atomic Bomb Dome ~ Peace Bell ~ Children's Peace Monument, etc.
    • 12:00　Depart Peace Memorial Park
    • 12:15　Arrive at Hiroshima Castle
    • 　　　 Tour Hiroshima Castle
    • 13:00　Depart Hiroshima Castle
    • 13:15　Disband in front of the Hiroshima Prefectural Government Office
    • 　　　(4 people return to the Hotel by taxi)

    Title: What's a Private Hiroshima Peace Park and Hiroshima Castle Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Since messaging apps such as WhatsApp were not to be used for prior communication, I was a little concerned about whether we would be able to meet at the hotel. I waited near the reception before 8:30, and I was relieved when the group came out. To save time, we took two taxis to the Peace Memorial Park, and because it was early in the day, we were able to take our time viewing the museum, which is usually very crowded. The guests had told me they wanted to focus mainly on the Peace Memorial Park, so we spent plenty of time at the museum. We were also able to visit the special exhibition at the National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims, which I had not been able to include with previous guests, and I myself was able to walk calmly through the Peace Memorial Park once again. Since the guests said they did not need to have lunch, we headed to Hiroshima Castle, went inside the Ninomaru and the castle keep, and left Hiroshima Castle at 13:00. As they were taking the 15:00 Shinkansen to Osaka, we caught a taxi in front of the Hiroshima Prefectural Office, and the group returned to the hotel. What impressed me most was how earnestly the entire group viewed the contents of the museum. When I said, "I want you to see not only the tragedy of Hiroshima but also the vibrant Hiroshima of today," they truly agreed, which made me very happy. I am always grateful when guests enjoy the tour.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Hiro

    I was an English teacher of a high school in Hiroshima.
    I retired early from my job in March in 2024.
    I might be of use to you if you’d like to get to know the present educational situation in Hiroshima.
    I had many opportunities to introduce Japanese culture when I taught Japanese in high school in America for two years.
    I can take you to the place where you can listen to music because I used to be a member of a music band.
    I like Japanese chess, fishing, skiing.
    I’m willing to do some activities with you.
    I would be most happy to help you know culture in Hiroshima.

    license, qualification
    Certified Administrative Scrivener
    English Proficiency Test Grade1
    a health(sanitation) manager license
    small boat operating license
    large size vehicle license
    standard motorcycle license
    amateur radio operator license

    Request Booking

    Jul 9, 2024
    kimberlyhY8158UZ
    Amazing
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    This tour was amazing! Our guide Hiro was…

    Jun 30, 2024
    lindarE6785KM
    Hiroshima 4hrs
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    We had such a wonderful tour. Can’t recommend…