Category: Uncategorized

  • Wakayama in Half a Day: Okunoin & Stay at Danjo Garan

    Wakayama in Half a Day: Okunoin & Stay at Danjo Garan

    Mt. Koya Sacred Sites Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

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

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

    Click here for more details: Mt. Koya Sacred Sites Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

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

    Tour Report by Yuki

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

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    Aug 17, 2026
    yasmintX6792FN
    Great trip
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Sites Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    It was a great time and very interesting…

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

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

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

  • Takayama Local Food & Sake Culture Tour

    Takayama Local Food & Sake Culture Tour

    Takayama Local Food & Sake Culture Tour, Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

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

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

    Click here for more details: Takayama Local Food & Sake Culture Tour, Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Mitsu

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

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

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

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

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Sumiyoshi Taisha & Dotonbori

    Osaka in Half a Day: Sumiyoshi Taisha & Dotonbori

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

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

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

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNamba～Sumiyoshi Taisha240JPY
    Section 2TrainSumiyoshi Taisha～Shin-Imamiya240JPY
    Section 3TrainShin-Imamiya～Morinomiya170JPY
    Section 4SubwayMorinomiya～Nippombashi240JPY
    Total890JPY

    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

    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…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Westin Miyako Kyoto & Ryoanji

    Kyoto in One Day: Westin Miyako Kyoto & Ryoanji

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

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

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

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

    Transportation cost per person

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

    Tour Report by Kazz

    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!

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Akasaka-mitsuke Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Akasaka-mitsuke Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @New Otani Garden Tower
    • 10:15 Akasaka-mitsuke Station
    • 10:45 Tsukiji Station
    • Fish market, Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 11:40 Tsukiji 3-chome
    • 11:50 Ginza 4-chome
    • Ginza Mitsukoshi tour, lunch at the deli
    • Ginza SIX, break at Starbucks
    • 13:55 Ginza Station
    • 14:20 Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Meiji Shrine, break at Forest Cafe
    • 15:40 Meiji-jingumae Station
    • 15:50 Shibuya Station
    • Scramble Crossing
    • 16:05 Disband @Ginza Line Shibuya Station ticket gate

    What Is a Private Full-Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Ginza, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya The guests were visitors from Europe. They were diligent about sending requests in advance through a messaging app, and we visited Tsukiji, Ginza, Meiji Shrine, and the Shibuya Scramble Crossing. Since they wanted to take their time and enjoy the tour at a relaxed pace, we made occasional breaks as we went along. The original plan had been to have a sushi lunch at Tsukiji, but since they were not very hungry, we moved on directly to Ginza. They especially liked the food floor of a department store and decided they wanted to buy something and eat it there, so they purchased items from the deli and enjoyed them at a rest space on an upper floor. This was not part of the plan, but since it was a spot I had scouted before, I was glad I could guide them there smoothly. I was not familiar with their home region, so I did some research beforehand and learned that it has historically had friendly relations with Japan. When I mentioned this, one of the guests already knew about it and was delighted.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAkasaka-mitsuke Station～Tsukiji Station180JPY
    Section 2BusTsukiji 3-chome～Ginza 4-chome210JPY
    Section 3SubwayGinza Station～Meiji-jingumae Station180JPY
    Section 4SubwayMeiji-jingumae Station～Shibuya Station180JPY
    Total750JPY

    Tour Report by Lily

    Hi there! Thank you so much for hitting my page!
    I’m Yuriko, but please call me Lily!
    I’m a qualified guide and interpreter, proud to be awarded as one of the finalists of Japan guide awards 2025.

    I have conducted over 100 tours a year since March 2024, with more than 90% of my clients awarding a five-star rating.

    I love Japanese food(eating and cooking!), cultures such as traditional arts and crafts, and so much more! I’ve always explored places seeking new things and love to share them with you.

    I was born and raised in Tokyo(for over 40 years!) but used to live in the U.S. for a couple of years as a child.
    I am proud to be able to introduce the charms of Japan from multiple perspectives based on my experience of interacting with people from many different nationalities.

    I am happy to tailor an original plan or to arrange your bucket list advancing it to a better option.
    The following is my contact information:
    lilyjapanguide@gmail.com

    I’m looking forward to guiding and sharing the excitement of Japan!!

    Request Booking

    Sep 17, 2025
    785hongc
    Wonderful 6 hour Tokyo tour with Lily in September
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a…

    Sep 16, 2025
    H
    Hong_C
    A wonderful day tour of Tokyo in September
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best relaxed educational…

    Jul 18, 2025
    Venture26940872209
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lilly was an excellent guide .. lots of communication before the visit…

    Jul 1, 2025
    michaellG938KC
    Lily is the best. Highly recommended
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lily is an amazing guide and…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Hotel Meet　8:45 Nanzen-ji Temple (Sanmon Gate, Suirokaku Aqueduct, Hojo Garden)　10:10 Higashiyama Area (Yasaka Pagoda, Ninenzaka, Ishibei-koji Alley, Yasaka Shrine) 11:35 Gion
    • 12:05 Lunch (Shijo Kawaramachi, Sushi Restaurant) 13:30 Kinkaku-ji Temple　　14:25 Tour ends at Kinkaku-ji Temple bus stop

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Visiting Nanzenji and Kinkakuji Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests visited Japan from North America. Since some of the group understood only Spanish, others interpreted from English into Spanish for them. Nanzenji Temple was quiet in the early morning, with few people around, and had a calm, pleasant atmosphere. The video presentation inside the temple had been revised from an earlier version. There are also many aqueducts in North America, and among the photos I was shown, some were even more impressive than the one at Nanzenji. At Kinkakuji Temple, the restoration work on the Sekkatei teahouse had been completed and its interior was open to the public. By the time we finished the guided tour of Kinkakuji, six hours had already passed. Considering some of the group, I thought it might be better to return to the Hotel, but the guests decided to go to Ryoanji Temple, so I guided them to the bus stop, and the tour for the day came to an end. The photo was taken near the Yasaka Pagoda.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShijo～Keage260JPY
    Section 2SubwayKeage～Higashiyama220JPY
    Section 3BusHigashiyama-sanjo～Kiyomizu-michi230JPY
    Section 4TrainShijo Kawaramachi～Saiin170JPY
    Section 5BusSaiin～Kinkaku-ji-michi230JPY
    Total1,110JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

    Request Booking

    Sep 28, 2026
    Miguel_E
    Amazing Service
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful time with Kazuo.…

    Sep 27, 2026
    T
    TrailBlazer47194
    Kazuo Sumi is a great guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide Kazuo Sumi…

    Sep 1, 2026
    Steve6172014
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 7, 2026
    Pascale_Q
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Very good private tour of Kyoto with Kazuo
    We had…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Atomic Bomb Dome

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Atomic Bomb Dome

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

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Hotel
    • 14:00 Miyajima
    • 17:00 Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
    • 20:00 Atomic Bomb Dome

    Private Tour of Miyajima and the Seto Inland Sea: A Licensed Guide's Summer Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. As even higher temperatures were forecast than the previous day, I again recommended a frozen bottled drink at a convenience store, but to my surprise, they were sold out. Because it was so hot, the weather became a topic of conversation. We talked about how there had been a major bushfire in the Blue Mountains in Oceania, and how in Hiroshima it used to snow about once a week some forty or fifty years ago, but in recent years it snows only once or twice a year, which is a rather sad change. Still, the summer view of the Seto Inland Sea from the ferry was fantastic, with the glaring sun reflecting off the rippling surface of the water, and the guests gazed at the scenery for a while.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi Station420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi Station～Nishi-Hiroshima Station330JPY
    Section 3BusNishi-Hiroshima Station～Hiroshima Peace Park220JPY
    Total970JPY

    Tour Report by Yuji

    Originally, I’m a cycling guide doing cycling tours all over Japan.
    But, already done Hiroshima & Miyajima tour more than 400 times.
    I traveled many countries in my younger days. I traveled Europe, US, China, India, US, Mexico, Peru Australia, NZ, and so on.
    I decided to use this experience to become a guide.
    I’m afraid but no tipping required, because cycling guides are not allowed to have tipping in my association. And you do not need to pay for my lunch, because my lunch is prepared by our group.
    Please do not hesitate to ask me anything, I’ll change the plan according to your requests.
    Thank you for your understanding and please stay connected.

    Request Booking

    Jun 1, 2026
    John_W
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    A top day with a top guide
    My wife…

    May 27, 2026
    Annabelle_C
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima in a day
    Yuji was a great communicator…

    May 12, 2026
    satishp656
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    HIROSHIMA HALF DAY TOUR
    Yuji is a warm, knowledgeble…

    May 10, 2026
    StephanieB6076
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Incredible Experience
    We had an incredible experience visiting Hiroshima…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Yurakucho Station & Asakusa Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Yurakucho Station & Asakusa Station

    Tsukiji Local Food & Culture Half-Day Tour, Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting point: The Peninsula Tokyo
    • 9:10 Yurakucho Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line)
    • Toyosu Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • 9:40 Arrive at Shijomae Station
    • Toyosu Toyosu Wholesale Market Building
    • Toyosu Intermediate Wholesale Market Building
    • 10:40 Depart Shijomae Station
    • (Yurikamome)
    • Toyosu Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line)
    • Tsukishima Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 11:10 Arrive at Tsukiji Market Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Outer Market
    • Tsukiji Uogashi
    • 12:00 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 12:30 Tawaramachi Station
    • Tawaramachi Kappabashi Kitchenware Street
    • 13:00 Depart Tawaramachi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:10 Arrive at Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Lunch: Owariya
    • 14:00 Asakusa Station
    • Disband: Asakusa Station

    What Is a Private Tokyo Food and Market Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Toyosu, Tsukiji, and Asakusa The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America, all visiting the country for the first time. They had arrived at Narita two days earlier and traveled to their hotel by limousine bus, and the previous day they had strolled around Ginza. The main purpose of this trip was a round-Japan cruise departing from Yokohama Port starting the day after next. After returning to port, they planned to visit Osaka and Kyoto and then fly home from Kansai Airport. The whole group loves watching sports, and they planned to go to Tokyo Dome the next day to watch a baseball game. The tour took place during intense summer heat, so we rested many times along the way. (I reminded them several times to be careful of heatstroke.) First, we went to Toyosu Market. The whole group loves sushi. At the seafood wholesale building, they asked questions such as "Where is the tuna caught?" "How much tuna is put up for auction?" "How much does one fish cost?" "What kind of tuna is expensive?" and "Who directs the auction?" They also asked, "Which part of the tuna is the most delicious?" At the intermediate wholesalers' building, they asked, "Why aren't we allowed inside?" and "Why do they sell vegetables as well as fish?" After that, we transferred via the Yurikamome and other lines to Tsukiji Market. At the Tsukiji Outer Market, we took a short break at "Platto Tsukiji." They also asked, "Why are there so many people? Is it always this crowded?" Since they very much wanted to buy kitchenware and knives, we went to Kappabashi Kitchen Town. Unfortunately, many shops were closed for the Obon holiday, so we could only visit a few, but they purchased some kitchenware as souvenirs. After that, we stopped by Asakusa, visited Sensoji Temple, and had lunch of soba and tempura at Owariya. (There was a request to eat cold soba.) They also made comments such as "The city is so clean. There is no litter on the ground," "The public toilets are clean and pleasant," and "The subway is clean, quiet, and comfortable," and "Recently, homelessness has been increasing rapidly in downtown San Francisco." They also asked, "During our stay in Seoul, the local guide explained many times about the delicate relationship between Japan and Korea. Honestly, what do Japanese people think of Korea?" We parted ways at Asakusa Station. (They said they intended to visit Tokyo Skytree afterward.)

    Click here for more details: Tsukiji Local Food & Culture Half-Day Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayYurakucho Station～Toyosu Station178JPY
    Section 2OtherToyosu Station～Shijomae Station189JPY
    Section 3OtherShijomae Station～Toyosu Station189JPY
    Section 4SubwayToyosu Station～Tsukishima Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwayTsukishima Station～Tsukiji Market Station178JPY
    Section 6SubwayTsukiji Station～Tawaramachi Station209JPY
    Section 7SubwayTawaramachi Station～Asakusa Station178JPY
    Total1,299JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    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.

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    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
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  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hotel Gion Misaki Komonzen, departure　➡　By subway and bus, 10:00 Kinkaku-ji Temple　➡　By taxi, 11:40 Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple　➡　On foot, 13:00 Bamboo Grove ~ Tenryu-ji Temple Garden　➡　Vegan lunch in Arashiyama　➡　15:20 Disband at JR Nijo Station

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of Arashiyama in Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from North America. They seemed to handle the heat well, and enjoyed a one-hour walk under the blazing sun from Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple to the bamboo grove, stopping at souvenir shops along the way and taking in the scenery. Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple was visited at the request of the guests. They took many photos of the expressive stone statues. They also mentioned that flowers are scarce in their home region, and were deeply moved by the beauty of the lotus flowers still in full bloom at Ogura Pond near the bamboo grove. They were also impressed by the beauty of the Sogenchi Garden at Tenryu-ji Temple. Since I only learned of it that day, finding vegan cuisine in Arashiyama was difficult, but I discovered that it was available at "Yoshiya," and the guests were satisfied with the menu. All of the guests were goshuin (temple seal) collectors.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwaySanjo Keihan～Kitaoji260JPY
    Section 2BusKitaoji Bus Terminal～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 3TrainSaga-Arashiyama～Nijo200JPY
    Total690JPY

    Tour Report by Emi

    Hello! I’m Emi (meaning “smile” or “laugh” in Japanese) , born, raised, and living in Osaka for more than half a century. I’ve been working as a government-licensed tour guide since 2018 after early retirement from a company. My favorite things are hiking, cooking, eating, laughing, learning different cultures, jazz, playing the chromatic harmonica, etc.
    I’ll provide you with a few suggested itineraries first, but of course I’ll be happy to provide you with a flexible itinerary according to your preferences and requests and to help you enjoy your stay in Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kobe, etc. I can also offer a tour visiting not only popular destinations but also hidden or less-crowded places.
    I’m looking forward to meeting and guiding you!!

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    Jul 17, 2026
    TROY_R
    Viator review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    This was a perfect tour…
    This was a perfect tour of…

    Sep 18, 2025
    L9831WKjenniferb
    4 hour Kyoto tour with English speaking guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely afternoon with English…

    Aug 15, 2025
    SuperGC68
    Great value
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a two day 6hr tour with our guide…

    Jul 4, 2025
    Inspire64445626178
    Delightful day with Emi
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a delightful day with our guide…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Peace Memorial Park & Omote-sando street

    Hiroshima in One Day: Peace Memorial Park & Omote-sando street

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

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:30 Meet at Sheraton Hiroshima
    • 8:00 Peace Memorial Park
    • 9:00 Peace Memorial Museum
    • 10:40 World Heritage Route
    • 12:00 Itsukushima Shrine
    • 12:45 Omote-sando street
    • 14:35 End the tour at Hiroshima station

    Title: What Is a Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Day Tour Like Before Heading to Osaka? A Licensed Guide's Report After the tour began, we returned to the Hotel once for a forgotten item. Considering the crowds during the Obon period, I had planned to visit the museum first, but tickets were already sold out even before the usual opening time. Because of this, we started from Peace Memorial Park. On the way by bus, I also added explanations about the atomic-bombed remains. Since the tour started early in the morning, we were able to hear the music of the Peace Clock Tower at just the right time. When we arrived at the museum there was no line to enter, but by the time we left, entry itself had been stopped. We also used the World Heritage Sea Route, but it was very crowded, and we managed to board at the last moment, so I ended up sitting in the crew seat. While some of the guests went near the torii gate, I paid the admission fee in the meantime. The main approach was also very crowded, so I gave explanations and allowed some free time. The guests seemed to enjoy oysters, momiji manju, ice cream, and other treats each in their own way. Since there was about an hour and a half before the Shinkansen, I recommended okonomiyaki. After the tour, the guests were moving on to Osaka, so I paid particular attention to the timing.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHiroshima Station～Hondori220JPY
    Section 2OtherPeace Memorial Park～Miyajima Port1,100JPY
    Section 3TrainMiyajimaguchi～Hiroshima420JPY
    Total1,740JPY

    Tour Report by Michi

    Hi. I’m Michi. I’m a national licensed tour guide in English.
    I want to introduce many faces and charms of Japan and make your stay in Japan more fascinating and satisfying.

    I was born and raised in Hiroshima. My first tour in English was as a volunteer guide for the visitors to my school when I was a junior high school student. It gave me a great opportunity to study about the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima.
    I spent my life in Hiroshima except for 6 years; 1 year in the UK as a student and 5 years working in Singapore and Malaysia. During this period I enjoyed meeting and talking with people from different cultural backgrounds.
    These experiences encouraged me to be a licensed tour guide.

    In Hiroshima, there are two famous World Heritage Sites, the Atomic Bomb Dome in the Hiroshima Peace Memorial & Itsukushima Shrine in Miyajima.
    I have experienced many tours of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum & Park since I was a junior high school student. I would like to introduce you to the a-bomb legacies that are still existing in the city and the stories under the mushroom cloud.
    I also would like to share time with you on a historic island, Miyajima. There is one of the most famous Shinto shrines, the Itsukushima Shrine. We can share an enjoyable time by exploring a sacred atmosphere, tradition, nature, food, etc.

    I am also an official ‘A-bomb legacy successor’ designated by the City of Hiroshima. An A-bomb Legacy Successor is a memory keeper of the A-bomb survivors. To ensure that the A-bomb survivors’ experiences and desires for peace are faithfully inherited and shared with as many people as possible, the City has started a three-year training program for official ‘A-bomb Legacy Successors. ‘

    Let me support your stay in Japan and I look forward to showing you the best of Japan!
    Hope to see you soon!

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    Jan 2, 2025
    georgeweller
    Excellent tour by a very knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Michi-San was an…

    Nov 8, 2024
    Andrew M
    Awesome experience! Michi was the best guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Awesome…

    Nov 8, 2024
    Andrew_M
    Awesome day! Michi was an amazing guide!
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Awesome day!…

    Sep 16, 2024
    alexandermM7944BB
    Day tour with Michi
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Michi, our guide, was amazing!…