Category: Uncategorized

  • Kobe Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kobe Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up @ Kobe Port Terminal
    • 2. 10:50 @ Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
    • 3. 12:20 @ Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden
    • 4. 12:40 Lunch @ The Herb Dining
    • 5. 14:50 @ Kobe Port Terminal
    • 6. 15:20 @ Sorakuen Garden
    • 7. 16:00 Disband @ Kobe Motomachi Shopping Street

    Title: What Is a Private Kobe Tour with a Vehicle Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. This was a tour with a vehicle. The original plan was to meet at the Kobe Port Terminal, then visit the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, Sorakuen Garden, and the Motomachi Shopping Street, before returning to the Kobe Port Terminal. We first went to the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. On the 8th-floor Maiko Marine Promenade, one of the guests was unable to continue and waited on the first floor. Because of this, at the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, we took the ropeway up to the observation area and only had lunch at the restaurant. After lunch, some of the guests visited the fragrance museum, the observation deck, and the shops. After descending by ropeway, we returned to the Port Terminal, where some of the guests ended the tour as they were tired. The rest of the guests visited Sorakuen Garden, but in order to finish the tour within six hours, I informed the guests of the bus stop for the free shuttle bus back to the Port Terminal and then ended the tour at the Motomachi Shopping Street. The guests I parted with at the Port Terminal and those I parted with at the Motomachi Shopping Street all thanked me, but I remain a little unsure about whether they truly enjoyed themselves.

    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…

  • Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:30 Meet up @Hotel
    • 2. 10:10 @Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 3. 12:00 Lunch @Ueshima Coffee Shop
    • 5. 13:00 @Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Togetsukyo Bridge
    • 6. 14:30 @Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 7. 15:45 @Kawaramachi Shijo
    • 8. 17:00 @Namba Takashimaya
    • 9. 18:00 Dismissal @Hotel

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like, Including Kinkaku-ji? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather forecast had mentioned a possibility of thunderstorms in the evening, so I first explained this to the guests and they agreed that we might need to head back early. When we were finishing at Kinkaku-ji, there was thunder in the distance and I was worried, but fortunately we did not encounter any rain during the tour. During the day, I explained the situation regarding foreign currency exchange for the return train fare, and we searched for a currency exchange machine, which took some unexpected time. Because of all this, we were not able to purchase Japanese tea in Kyoto, so I mentioned that my recommended tea could be bought at a department store in Osaka, and in the end I accompanied the guests for shopping at the department store as well. They seemed very pleased, and later I received a thank-you email with photos, so if they were satisfied, that was the best outcome of all.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNamba~Yodoyabashi190JPY
    Section 2TrainYodoyabashi~Fushimi Inari420JPY
    Section 3TrainInari~Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 4BusKinkakuji-michi~Shijo Kawaramachi230JPY
    Section 5TrainKyoto-Kawaramachi~Osaka-Umeda410JPY
    Section 6TrainUmeda~Namba240JPY
    Total1,730JPY

    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!

    Sep 29, 2026
    duncans746
    Yuka was great
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Yuka was a fantastic guide, knowledgeable,…

    Sep 23, 2026
    navinderp2024
    Great day in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 9, 2026
    piperl686
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Honeymoon Tour in Kyoto
    We were so impressed by…

    Aug 5, 2026
    Anita_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great day of sightseeing in Kyoto
    Yuka was a…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Sanjusangendo

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Sanjusangendo

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Nol Kyoto Sanjo Meet up
    • 10:00~10:45 Nijo Castle
    • 11:20~12:00 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 12:30~13:15 Sanjusangendo
    • 13:30~13:50 Gion Pontocho – Nishiki Market Dismissal

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, and this was their first trip to Japan, arriving in Kyoto after passing through Tokyo and Osaka. They were impressed by the cleanliness and safety of Japan's cities, as well as the well-developed railway transportation infrastructure. At Nijo Castle, it was a Tuesday, so we could not enter the interior of the Ninomaru Palace, but they were deeply moved by the magnificent architecture and carvings of the Karamon Gate and the Ninomaru Palace. We also discussed the role of the palace, how Tokugawa Ieyasu became shogun, and the flow of events at the end of the shogunate leading up to the restoration of imperial rule. At Fushimi Inari Taisha, they were interested in the differences between Buddhism and Shinto, as well as Japanese faith, and we discussed these topics. At Sanjusangendo, they were amazed by the power of the 1,001 Buddhist statues and the 28 guardian deities in the main hall.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKarasuma Oike~Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijojo-mae~Kyoto260JPY
    Section 3TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 4TrainFushimi Inari~Shichijo170JPY
    Section 5SubwayShichijo~Gion-Shijo170JPY
    Total970JPY

    Hello, This is Shige. I was born and brought up in Osaka. I have been enjoying working as a tour guide since 2016 after retired from a manufacturing company in which I worked at the overseas department. So I experienced a lot of business with customers in Europe, Asia, Australia, and USA where my three years of living and working at the subsidiary company with my family was the most amazing experience of my life. Well, Japan has a long history including ancient remains, historic buildings and cultures at each period over 2000 years. I hope you will enjoy exploring Japan in this tour. I look forward to seeing you soon.
    Shige.

    May 23, 2026
    Sarajean_s
    Viator review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful way to get acquainted with Kyoto
    Shige was a…

    May 21, 2026
    828vickeyb
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Shige is a great tour guide for Kyoto
    Shige was an excellent…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Mariana_M
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking Tour with Shige
    Shige was an amazing tour guide and companion…

    Jul 4, 2025
    Marcus_C
    Osaka tour 2025
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful tour around Osaka. Our guide…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:15 Meet beside Kyoto tower
    • 13:00 Kinkaku-ji
    • 15:00 Bamboo forest > Tenryu-ji garden
    • 15:30 Break at Bread and Espresso > river
    • 16:00 Kimono Forest
    • 17:00 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 17:45 Disband at JR Kyoto Station

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Trip from Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, and remarkably, this was a day trip from Tokyo to Kyoto. Along Kinukake-no-Michi from Kinkaku-ji, there is a black-and-white convenience store, so I showed it to them. Since the group required two taxis, the two cars had to travel separately. Although I had instructed the other taxi to go to Torokko Arashiyama, it dropped the guests off at JR Saga-Arashiyama Station instead, so we had to take another taxi to that point to meet up again. It was truly unfortunate. As it was my mistake, I covered the taxi fare myself. This time we had two taxis, but one of them left ahead quickly, and I failed to clearly instruct both cars to stay together, which was my fault. I take it as a lesson learned. We were caught in the rain for a while, but at Inari the rain stopped, and as requested, we arrived at Kyoto Station at 17:45.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Kitaoji260JPY
    Section 2BusKitaoji~Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 3TrainRanden Arashiyama~Randen Tenjingawa250JPY
    Section 4TrainUzumasa Tenjingawa~Sanjo Keihan260JPY
    Section 5TrainKeihan Sanjo~Fushimi Inari220JPY
    Total1,220JPY

    Bye bye smart phone!! Let’s enjoy Japan without bothering to check up your phone all the time with not AI but a local guide like me. Hi, my name is Mimmy. You may think this sounds like a kitten’s name.
    I use this nickname because it sounds cute and easy to remember. However,
    I actually look rounded, a middle aged woman more like a yellow character of M&Mchocolate, which reminds you of my name easily when you see me.
    I was born in Osaka, went to school in Kobe, went to work in Kyoto and married but still live in Osaka. I am a local, native Osakan. My 3 children are all grown up and live separately except one son. Now I live with one son and a husband in suburbs of the Osaka city.
    I like travelling, walking around the town and anything new.
    I got my guide license in 2017 and started guiding after that. I wasn’t able to work during Covid period but start guiding in 2022 again. I guide Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Kobe and have experienced more than100 tours including bus tours.
    I would like to tell you about the itineraries I usually have in each area.
    In Osaka, we usually go to Osaka castle, Shinsekai and Dotonbori Namba area.
    I think most important part you should see is Dotonbori Namba in Osaka.
    This place is vibrant , energetic, full of 3D signs and different from any other place in Japan.
    In Kyoto, we cannot see all famous sightseeing spots in one day.
    It will be better to visit each area respectively. I recommend guests who come to Kyoto first time to visit East area, Kiyomizu Temple>Sannenzaka>Ninenzaka>Ishibeikouji>Yasaka shrine> Gion area. This area has an atmosphere of traditional old Kyoto. The most Kyoto like places which suit Kimono. You can rent Kimono in a lot of places around here.
    The second place I recommend you is West area: Golden temple and Arashiyama area where Bamboo forest , Tenryuji temple, mountains and a river. There are several nice gardens in this area. If you want to enjoy the nature quietly, you
    should come here when it is not crowded (Winter is the most quiet)
    In Nara which used to be a capital even older than Kyoto, we visit Todaiji Temple where a huge Buddha is sitting inside of one of the largest wooden hall and you can play with deer everywhere in Nara. Naramachi: a small town in this area is a local place where small interesting shops are.
    In Kobe, a port city, you can visit Japanese Sake breweries, Herb garden and the top of Mt.Rokko for viewing Kobe city. A small China town is there, too.

    Now I bet you want to leave home to explore somewhere else you do not know.
    Not only going to somewhere else, we can help you to do several experiences: making tea, making Japanese sweet, making Takoyaki(food), wearing Kimono, making food samples, attending a tea ceremony, throwing Shriken like Ninja, Using bow and arrow like Samurai, , , ,
    I am very happy indeed if I can help you find things impressive enough and have once in a life time experience during our tour.
    I am looking forward to sharing a good time with you.

    Mar 24, 2025
    Jennie_N
    Ask for Mimmy
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A must if visiting the first time. Will save…

    Mar 15, 2025
    Eric B
    Wonderful Osaka castle and tour
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mimmy was a wonderful…

    Mar 12, 2025
    williampP2709MA
    Amazing time in Osaka with Mimmy
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mimmy was an amazing tour guide!…

    Oct 30, 2024
    Niaz_M
    Great choice if you have limited time in Kyoto
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Shitennoji Temple

    Osaka in Half a Day: Shitennoji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet @ W Osaka
    • 11:10-13:00 @Osaka Castle, Hokoku Shrine
    • 13:30-14:10 @ Shitennoji Temple
    • 14;30-14:40 @Harukas Garden
    • 14:55 Disband @Shinsaibashi Station

    Title: What Is a Private Osaka Walking Tour with a Licensed Guide Like? A Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. One of their purposes for this trip was to broaden their professional knowledge, as one of the guests runs a travel agency. It was an extremely challenging situation due to the intense heat for guests coming from the Southern Hemisphere, but they listened attentively to my explanations and asked many questions about Japan, so our conversation never lapsed along the way. After taking a break at the Hotel, the plan was to attend the Mantoe memorial service held at Shitennoji Temple that evening, but it was cancelled due to a sudden heavy downpour just beforehand. They attended it the following day. The guests asked many questions about Japan, and the conversation never lapsed throughout.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinsaibashi~Tanimachi 4-chome190JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 3SubwayTennoji~Shinsaibashi240JPY
    Total620JPY

    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!

    Sep 26, 2026
    Y
    yolanda552
    Sachiko the best tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Sachiko was our tour guide…

    Sep 9, 2026
    peteraI5718XP
    My First Visit to Osaka
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    I enjoyed seeing Osaka through Sachiko’s…

    Sep 4, 2026
    S
    satchithh
    Hasabnis family
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sachiko or Choko Ogura is a…

    Aug 3, 2026
    G6602NEeduardoa
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Osaka Tour with Sachiko
    We had a great Osaka…

  • Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle & Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

    Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle & Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meeting @ Osaka Station, Hotel Limousine Drop-off Area
    • 9:00-10:40 @ Osaka Castle
    • 11:05-11:45 @ Shitennoji Temple
    • 12:10-13:00 Lunch @ Inside Harukas Tower
    • 13:35-14:10 @ Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
    • 14:45 Dismissal, Osaka Station, Hotel Limousine Departure Area

    Title: What's a Private Osaka Day Tour Like on a Rainy Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. The meeting point was changed from the Hotel to the limousine bus drop-off area at a Hotel near Osaka Station. On the day of the tour, there was some light rain, but after enduring the intense heat in Kyoto and Tokyo a few days earlier, the guests were delighted, calling it the best weather. The start of the tour coincided with rush hour on the Midosuji subway line, and while the guests were surprised at how crowded it was, they stayed positive throughout, treating it as a good experience. Since the next day would be the final day of their trip with plans to stay in Osaka, we postponed the planned visit to Dotonbori to the following day and instead took a relaxed tour around Osaka.

    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!

    Sep 26, 2026
    Y
    yolanda552
    Sachiko the best tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Sachiko was our tour guide…

    Sep 9, 2026
    peteraI5718XP
    My First Visit to Osaka
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    I enjoyed seeing Osaka through Sachiko’s…

    Sep 4, 2026
    S
    satchithh
    Hasabnis family
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sachiko or Choko Ogura is a…

    Aug 3, 2026
    G6602NEeduardoa
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Osaka Tour with Sachiko
    We had a great Osaka…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Shibuya Station & Ginza Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Shibuya Station & Ginza Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meeting place: all day place shibuya
    • 9:10 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 9:50 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 10:40 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 11:00 Arrive Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Uogashi
    • Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:00 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 12:10 Arrive Ginza Station
    • Ginza Ginza Mitsukoshi
    • Ginza Matsuya
    • Ginza Six
    • 13:00 Depart Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:30 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 14:00 Disband: Shibuya Station

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Tsukiji, Ginza, and Shibuya The guests were visitors from Europe, visiting Japan for the first time. They arrived at Narita Airport ten days ago. After staying in Tokyo for two days, they went to Kyoto. After staying in Kyoto for five days, they returned to Tokyo. They plan to depart from Narita the day after next. They decided to travel to Japan out of an interest in Japanese cuisine and Japanese history. Although it was cloudy, both the temperature and humidity were high, so the tour included several rest breaks along the way. First, we went to Asakusa. I explained "the history of Senso-ji Temple and the history of Edo and Tokyo." There were questions such as "What kind of religion is Buddhism?" "Do all Japanese people believe in Buddhism?" and "Do Buddhists visit temples regularly?" Then we moved to Tsukiji. There were also questions such as "Why are there so many people here?" "There are so many kinds of fish." "Why do they sell not only fish but also meat and vegetables?" and "Do all people in Tokyo come here to buy fish?" The guests purchased a large quantity of "coffee peanuts" and "mochi sweets." After this, they wanted to buy "Japan's finest sweets and matcha," so we went to Ginza. We looked around various places, and in the end they purchased "matcha" and a "tea whisk" at a department store in Ginza. After that, they said they were "tired from the heat," so we returned to Shibuya. We crossed the Scramble Crossing and took commemorative photos in front of the Hachiko statue. There were questions such as "Is it always this crowded?" and "Why do so many people come here?" There were also comments such as "The whole city is clean. There is no litter on the ground." "The public restrooms are clean and pleasant." and "The subway is clean, quiet, and comfortable. The air conditioning works well, too." There was also a question about "what the differences are between Japan, Korea, and China." We parted ways at Shibuya Station.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShibuya Station~Asakusa Station252JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa Station~Tsukiji Station209JPY
    Section 3SubwayGinza Station~Tsukiji Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwayGinza Station~Shibuya Station209JPY
    Total848JPY

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Onomichi Half-Day Customized Tour

    Onomichi Half-Day Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Onomichi Station ~ Arcade ~ Ropeway to Senkoji Temple Observation Deck ~ Tsuzumi Rock ~ Senkoji Temple ~ Kyorakuen ~ Cat Alley ~ Ushitora Shrine ~ Lunch (Hotel Sumiyoshi) ~ Tenneiji Temple ~ Misode Tenmangu Shrine ~ Daisanji Temple ~ Jikanji Temple ~ Hodoji Temple ~ Ikkyu Shrine ~ Komyoji Temple ~ Jikoji Temple ~ Onomichi Station

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Onomichi Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests really appreciated the charm of Onomichi and showed great interest in its history, the daily lives of its people, and its culture. Since it was their first time in Japan, I explained the differences between temples and shrines, how to pray, and the meaning of shimenawa ropes. While looking at the scenery, I also invited the guests to think about how Onomichi came to be, why there are so many temples, and why it prospered, and I explained the reasons afterward. As a distinctly Japanese culinary experience, the guests were able to grate fresh wasabi themselves and enjoy it with sashimi, which felt special to them and seemed to leave them satisfied. Since it was a little hot and some of the group were feeling worn out, I extended the lunch and afternoon breaks a bit, and they seemed to recover well.

    Hi! I am Kazuha from Onomichi City in Hiroshima Prefecture. Please call me Kazu chan. I was a teacher for 37 years, and retired last year. After that, I traveled a lot, and met a guide who made my travel much more interesting than other travel. It has become a life-time memory. So I decided to be an interpreter guide to help foreign tourists. I would love to help you to make your travel more interesting and exciting!
    I have guided Onomichi, and two World Cultural Heritage sites :Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, and Miyajima. Onomichi is my hometown and the starting point for the Shimanami-kaido to Shikoku Island. It prospered from the 12th century to the 19th century, and was not bombed during the war. So we can still enjoy finding unique Japanese culture while walking. Let’s explore Hiroshima and make your travel special!

    Jul 26, 2025
    R3976LRjennaw
    A+++
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We absolutely loved our tour in Hiroshima with…

    Jun 2, 2025
    847lachlanc
    A gem of a merchants town at the foot of stunning mountains by the sea
    Tripadvisor review: Onomichi Half-Day Private Trip…

    May 25, 2025
    Daniel_M
    Religion and Peace
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our guide (Kazuha) was lovely! Very…

    May 22, 2025
    Georgina B
    Poignant and moving day with helpful guide
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Kazuha…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:50 Meet up @Hotel Kyoto Ekihigashi 11:30@Bamboo Grove Walk 11:40@Nonomiya Shrine 12:30@Togetsukyo Bridge 13:26@Pontocho (Photo Shooting) 14:00@Fushimi Inari Taisha 16:10@Kimono Rental Okamoto 16:50@Kiyomizu-dera 18:40 Dismiss @Kyoto Station

    What Is a Private Kimono and Kiyomizu-dera Walking Tour in Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I had also reached out the day before, but although the messaging app showed the message had been read, there was no reply. After arriving at Kyoto Station today, while walking toward the meeting point, the guest contacted me to say they had arrived at the meeting point, so we were able to meet and I guided them to the places they wished to see. The guest was staying at a hotel in Osaka, so the meeting point was not their accommodation. When I asked the guest for permission to use photos, they initially declined, but at a kimono rental shop where they wore a yukata, the shop staff took photos and asked whether they could be posted on the rental company's website, and the guest gave permission for the shop staff to photograph them. I then confirmed once more whether the photos could be used, and the guest gave permission, so I am attaching photos of them wearing the kimono. The guest wished to visit Kiyomizu-dera while wearing a kimono, and as a result the tour exceeded six hours. We concluded the guiding once we returned to the kimono rental shop, but the guest wished to return to Kyoto Station together, so we went back together, and since they wanted to eat ramen before returning to Osaka, I guided them to Ramen Koji on the 10th floor of the station building, where the tour ended. It had been raining from last night until around 9:00 this morning, so compared to the heat of the previous days, it was a comfortable day. It rained a little partway through the bamboo grove, but the bamboo acted like an umbrella, so it was not bothersome. It was drizzling when we got off the bus at Kiyomizu-michi as well, but it soon stopped. The guest stopped often to take photos and said they did not need time for lunch, but guiding through three locations took more than six hours.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 2TrainArashiyama~Kawaramachi240JPY
    Section 3TrainGion-Shijo~Fushimi-Inari220JPY
    Section 4TrainInari~Tofukuji150JPY
    Section 5BusTofukuji~Kiyomizu-michi230JPY
    Section 6BusKiyomizu-michi~Kyoto Station230JPY
    Total1,310JPY

    I am Keiko Ibuki, Goverment-Licensed Guide. I passed National Guide examination and registered in 2015. I started guiding job in 2016. I mainly guide Kansai area, especially Kyoto. From 2016 to 2019, I guided visitors from overseas about 50 days. In 2023, I guided visitors from overseas about 50 days. I passed 2nd grade of Kyoto Tourism and Culture examination in 2020. I passed National Examination for Certified Travel Supervisors in 1997. I can tailor my guided tour to meet your requirements. I would like to make your visit to Japan enjoyable and memorable.

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  • Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kamakura Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:40 Meet at Kamakura Station. After storing luggage and helping to purchase Shinkansen tickets to Kanazawa, take the Enoden to Inamuragasaki. Distant view of Mt. Fuji. Return to Hase, visit Hasedera Temple, shopping, and after viewing the Great Buddha, take the Enoden from Hase to Kamakura. Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. Shopping along Komachi Street. Return to the station and accompany to Yokohama Station. 16:12 Put them on the Tokaido Line, finish and disband. The customer will go to Kanazawa on the 17:24 Shinkansen departing from Tokyo.

    What Is a Private Kamakura and Enoshima Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were on their second visit to Japan, having traveled through Asia and Tokyo during a stretch of intense heat, so I expected they might be tired, but there was a bit of a breeze today and they were in great spirits. On this trip they were hoping to see Mount Fuji, and since there was a chance it might be partly visible, with the guests' agreement we headed toward Inamuragasaki. The summit was covered in clouds, but it was just barely visible enough to capture in a photo, which was reassuring. It was also their second time in Kamakura, but they enjoyed themselves and were free to do some shopping as well. The guests have strong feelings and a deep connection to Japan, tracing their roots to Yamaguchi Prefecture. After discussing with the guests, we focused thoroughly on sightseeing and shopping, so there was no time for lunch and they only had a single ice cream, but they said they had a wonderful time.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKamakura Station~Inamuragasaki220JPY
    Section 2TrainInamuragasaki~Hase200JPY
    Section 3TrainHase~Kamakura200JPY
    Total620JPY

    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!!
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