Category: Uncategorized

  • Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 13:00 Meet @ In front of Himeji Station Central Ticket Gate
    • 2. 13:05 @ Castle View
    • 3. 13:30 @ Himeji Castle
    • 4. 15:40 @ Koko-en Garden
    • 5. 16:30 Disband @ In front of Himeji Station Shinkansen Ticket Gate

    What Is a Private Himeji Castle and Koko-en Garden Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. We met in front of the central ticket gate at Himeji Station, visited Castle View, Himeji Castle, and Koko-en Garden, and parted ways in front of the Shinkansen ticket gate at Himeji Station. This was another extremely hot day. Because of this, I gave my explanations at each sightseeing point in the shade, and we only stepped into the sunlight when taking photos. The guests had traveled through Kanazawa and Takayama before coming to Himeji, and they planned to head to Kyoto today. They were very delighted by the beauty of Himeji Castle, and they also showed an interest in the Japanese language, asking things like how to say "beautiful" in Japanese. After Koko-en Garden, we returned to Himeji Station by taxi, and they seemed very pleased with today's tour.

    Click here for more details: Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Norio

    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!

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Kanagawa: Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine & Enoshima

    Kanagawa: Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine & Enoshima

    Kamakura Hidden Trails Day Hike with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10：15　Meet up @ Kamakura Station East Exit
    • 10：35　Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
    • 11：10　Komachi Street
    • 11：40　Lunch @ Ginza Kagari Kamakura Branch (Ramen Shop)
    • 13：10　Hasedera Temple
    • 14：00　Kotokuin (Great Buddha of Kamakura)
    • 15：10　Enoshima
    • 16：30　Disband @ Fujisawa Station

    Title: What Is a Private Kamakura and Enoshima Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe on their first trip to Japan. They mentioned that after sightseeing in Tokyo, they planned to travel to Shikoku and Kyushu. They said they had intentionally avoided popular destinations such as Kyoto and chose places less frequented by foreign tourists. At Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, they showed great interest in the explanation of the differences between a shrine and a temple. On Komachi Street, they enjoyed shopping at souvenir shops and having ramen for lunch. They appeared deeply impressed by the giant Kannon statue at Hasedera Temple and the Great Buddha at Kotoku-in Temple. At Enoshima, they enjoyed the beautiful ocean scenery and the approach to Enoshima Shrine. Since I responded to the guests' wishes as requested, I believe they were satisfied.

    Click here for more details: Kamakura Hidden Trails Day Hike with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKamakura Station～Hachimangu Shrine200JPY
    Section 2TrainKamakura Station～Hase Station200JPY
    Section 3TrainHase Station～Enoshima Station260JPY
    Section 4TrainKatase-Enoshima Station～Fujisawa Station170JPY
    Total830JPY

    Tour Report by Seizo

    I am Seizo Kamiuto, National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English). I was born in Kagoshima City in Kyushu (Southern part of Japan) and grew up there until the graduation from a high school. I came to Tokyo to enter a University in Tokyo and since then, I have lived in Tokyo for more than 40 years and therefore I know Tokyo and its suburbs and Kagoshima City very well. After retiring from an IT company, I have been working as a Guide Interpreter of English since March 2018. I have guided many overseas guests to the popular sightseeing spots in Tokyo, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji area (Kawaguchiko Lake etc.), Hakone, Nikko, Yokohama, Kawagoe and Kagoshima and so on. I have received good reviews from many guests. I can explain the history and the culture of Japan in detail. I look forward to an opportunity to guide you in Japan. Thank you. Seizo Kamiuto

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    Sep 27, 2026
    jonaJ5014ZK
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Seizo was a tremendously fabulous…

    Sep 11, 2026
    M7402TTsharonp
    Higly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing tour with Seizi Kaminto.…

    Sep 8, 2026
    OnAir57127583503
    Amazing Experience with Kamakura Day Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    We had an excellent time with Seizo Kamiuto as our…

    Sep 4, 2026
    B2319ZKjoseo
    Pleasant stroll through HISTORY
    Tripadvisor review: Kawagoe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a great time learning about…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Station & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Station & Hiroshima Peace Park

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

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00　Hiroshima Station
    • 12:00　Miyajima　
    • 15:00　Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 17:00　Hiroshima Station

    A Private Family Tour of Miyajima and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from Europe. Due to the intense summer heat, one of the guests was feeling a little tired, so we rested for a while in the shade near the entrance, since the stairs at Daishoin Temple are quite demanding. The famous dark passage at Daishoin Temple, the Kaidan-meguri, had reopened, so I guided some of the guests through it. I explained that there are two ways to experience the darkness — one where you proceed in silence, and one where you chant the Heart Sutra as you go — and asked which they preferred. They said they would like the Heart Sutra, so I chanted it wholeheartedly. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park was very busy with preparations ahead of August 6, the anniversary of the atomic bombing.

    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
    Section 4BusAtomic Bomb Dome-mae～Hiroshima Station220JPY
    Total1,190JPY

    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.

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    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…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Shitennoji & Osaka Castle

    Osaka in Half a Day: Shitennoji & Osaka Castle

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet @ Sumiyoshi Taisha
    • 11:15 @ Shitennoji
    • 12:15 @ Osaka Castle
    • 13:00 Dismiss @ Osaka Castle Entrance

    What Is a Private One-Day Osaka Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Sumiyoshi Taisha, and Shitenno-ji The guests were a group visiting Osaka. Originally another member of the group was also scheduled to join, but was unable to participate due to feeling unwell in the heat. The day was again extremely hot (with a brief shower at Osaka Castle), but we were able to move around smoothly. Both of the guests observed each spot with great interest and took many photographs. At Sumiyoshi Taisha, they picked up the popular small stones inscribed with the characters for "Go-Dai-Riki" (Five Great Powers) and also purchased amulet pouches. One of the guests drew an omikuji fortune and was delighted to receive "Dai-kichi" (great good luck). Afterward, on the way from Shitenno-ji to Osaka Castle, they enjoyed some taiyaki inside Tennoji Station and seemed very satisfied. At Osaka Castle I guided only the exterior, and since admission was for the guests only, we parted at the entrance. A half-day Himeji tour is scheduled with these guests tomorrow, and it was mentioned that the other member of the group will likely be able to join then. [Review Card Purchase] I purchased a review card this time. I have attached the receipt, so I would appreciate your kind handling of this.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSumiyoshi Taisha～Namba240JPY
    Section 2SubwayNamba～Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka240JPY
    Section 3TrainTennoji～Morinomiya170JPY
    Total650JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Marunouchi
    • 2. 10:15 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 3. 12:30 Asakusa (Nakamise Shopping Street, Sensoji Temple)
    • 4. 13:50 Lunch Kobe Beef Dia Asakusa Branch No.1
    • 5. 15:30 Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue)
    • 6. 15:50 Harajuku (Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street)
    • 7. 16:40 Dismissal Harajuku Station

    What Is a Private Tour for Guests from Europe Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. Each of them tended to move around independently, so I guided them while keeping a careful eye out to make sure no one got lost. They were very cheerful and clearly enjoyed the tour, which made guiding them enjoyable for me as well. Since they mentioned that they lived in an area of Europe, I had been concerned about the heat and humidity, but as it was still early in their trip they seemed full of energy and did not appear tired. We ran about 40 minutes over the scheduled time, but I believe they had a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Also, due to the extreme heat, a smartphone started malfunctioning, so only a few photos could be taken.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOtemachi～Asakusa178JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Shibuya252JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya～Harajuku146JPY
    Total576JPY

    Tour Report by Nobu

    Hi, I am Nobu, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English).
    I have been an English guide in Tokyo area since January 2017.
    Tokyo is a wonderful city, and you may enjoy this city by yourselves.
    Even so, I recommend you go around with a guide, especially if it is your first time visit to Tokyo.
    A good guide will help you to understand about Tokyo and Japan as well as how to use convenient but complicated public transportations more effectively.
    I am glad if I can help you to make your tour more enjoyable.
    I am looking forward to meeting you in Tokyo soon!
    Nobu

    Request Booking

    Jun 2, 2026
    amandavW9846AW
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Tokyo day trip!
    We had a wonderfull day with Nobu! He…

    May 25, 2026
    Matthew_C
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nobu was an excellent and…
    Nobu was an excellent and informative guide…

    May 24, 2026
    Diane D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Pleasant Intro to Tokyo
    Nobu was an experienced and informative guide.…

    Apr 28, 2026
    GrandTour57165664797
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Awesome!
    It was our first visit to Japan. Nobu was very knowledgeable…

  • 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

    • 1. 9:00 Meet up @MONday Kyoto Premium
    • 2. 9:40 @Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 3. 12:00 @Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 4. 13:15 Lunch @Katsukura
    • 5. 15:00 @Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 6. 15:30 Disband @Ninenzaka

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Tour of Kinkaku-ji, Fushimi Inari, and Kiyomizu-dera Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was recovering after surgery, so we kept the pace slow throughout the tour, as requested. Fortunately, there was a bus stop right in front of the accommodation with a direct service to Kinkaku-ji, so although it took longer, we made frequent use of buses to reduce the strain on the guest as much as possible. This worked well because the requested destinations were Kinkaku-ji, Fushimi Inari Taisha, and Kiyomizu-dera. We decided to have lunch at Kyoto Station, and when I suggested tonkatsu, the guest was delighted, saying it was exactly one of the dishes they had wanted to try but had missed in Tokyo, and found it very delicious. At Kyoto Station I found a large taxi, and when I explained the guest's situation to the driver, he kindly took us up a slope even higher than Chawan-zaka. It was a great help to have such a kind driver. Since the guest wanted to enjoy a little more shopping around Ninen-zaka, I explained where a taxi could be caught, and we parted ways in front of a coffee shop. I believe the guest was very pleased. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. Winner of Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusShichijo Horikawa～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 2BusKinkakuji-michi～Kawaramachi Sanjo230JPY
    Section 3TrainSanjo～Fushimi Inari220JPY
    Section 4TrainInari～Kyoto150JPY
    Total830JPY

    Tour Report by YUKA

    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!

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    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up @ Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro
    • 2. 10:10 Stay @ Ikebukuro Station
    • 3. 10:25 Travel: Subway
    • 4. 11:05 Stay @ Asakusa
    • 5. 12:20 Travel: Subway
    • 6. 13:00 Stay @ Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 7. 13:25 Lunch @ Sobashiki
    • 8. 14:40 Travel: Subway
    • 9. 15:05 Stay @ Meiji Shrine
    • 10. 16:15 Dismissal @ Takeshita Street

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour Like from Ikebukuro to Asakusa and Harajuku? A Licensed Guide's Report In the email I sent on the morning of the tour, I mentioned that I would be waiting in the hotel lobby, but the guest did not seem to notice the email and was standing outside the hotel entrance. Thanks to another guest going back inside the hotel to check, we did not lose much time. The guests wished to purchase a 3-day subway pass, so we first completed the process at Ikebukuro Station. To travel from Ikebukuro to Asakusa by subway, it is relatively convenient to transfer to the Oedo Line along the way, but since the distance is considerable, it did take some time. As it was a Saturday, the restaurants everywhere were crowded. This time, since the spots other than Asakusa were close together, there was no major impact, but I felt that caution will be needed going forward. At the end, in front of Takeshita Street, I explained how to return to Ikebukuro Station by subway, and then we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassIkebukuro Station～Asakusa Station900JPY
    Section 2Free PassAsakusa Station～Shibuya Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassShibuya Station～Meiji-jingumae Station0JPY
    Total900JPY

    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.

    Request Booking

    Sep 29, 2026
    Y9791IZnicks
    Making the most of a rainy day
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Sam was a wonderful…

    Sep 25, 2026
    910lorig
    Best experience for a perfect day in Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Best…

    Sep 15, 2026
    R8612KOjanicea
    Highly recommend 👍
    Tripadvisor review: Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Sam, was amazing!!…

    Sep 1, 2026
    greasygrandpa
    First Day In Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our tour guide Sam was very knowledgeable…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet @ Hotel
    • 8:50-9:10 Travel (City Bus; Kitano-Hakubaicho → Keihan Demachiyanagi)
    • 9:20-9:30 Travel (Keihan Train: Keihan Demachiyanagi → Kiyomizu-Gojo)
    • 9:30-11:00 Visit Kiyomizu Temple, Yasaka Pagoda, Koshin-do
    • 11:00-11:20 Travel (Keihan Train: Gion-Shijo → Fushimi Inari)
    • 11:20-12:20 Visit Fushimi Inari
    • 12:20-12:30 Travel (Keihan Train; Fushimi Inari → Gion-Shijo)
    • 　　※We escorted them to Hanamikoji in Gion and parted ways.

    What Is a 4-Hour Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kiyomizu-dera and Fushimi Inari This was a 4-hour private Kyoto tour for a group visiting from Europe. Even one week beforehand contact had not been possible, but with the support of [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) we were able to get in touch and confirm the tour details in advance. Thank you very much. There was a small hiccup regarding the meeting point on the day of the tour. Just in case, I had called the day before but could not connect, so I left a message saying I would wait in the hotel lobby, and on the day I waited in the lobby. However, after five minutes we had not met, and about ten minutes later the guests were found waiting outside the hotel. They had gone out for breakfast, and since I had been speaking with other guests, those other guests kindly told them that the guide was waiting inside the hotel. There was a loss of about ten minutes, but no harm was done. The hotel reception did not open until 9:00, so I could not confirm the guests there either. I felt that hotels like this require extra caution. For the tour itself, the guests enjoyed the stunning view from Kiyomizu-dera and listened with interest to the story of Koshin-do. Fushimi Inari seemed to make a particularly strong impression on some of the guests, and it was very well received. Finally, I took them to Gion, explained the route from Gion back to the hotel (Keihan train and bus), and said goodbye. It was fortunate that a light rain sprinkled during the tour and the temperature dropped a little. The photo was taken while waiting for the bus.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKitano-Hakubaicho～Keihan Demachiyanagi230JPY
    Section 2TrainKeihan Demachiyanagi～Kiyomizu-Gojo280JPY
    Section 3TrainGion-Shijo～Fushimi Inari220JPY
    Section 4TrainFushimi Inari～Gion-Shijo220JPY
    Total950JPY

    Tour Report by Michi

    My name is (Mr.)Michiharu Aioi and I worked at Electronic Manufacturing Company (Panasonic) for more than 40 years in charge of overseas sales.
    I learned a lot in these 40 years and now I would like to contribute to the promotion of mutual understanding with foreign countries being involved in tourism busines utilizing my long experience in my previous company. I will do my best to make each trip very fruitful for each foreign visitor.
    As for my language ability, in addition to English, I can speak Spanish which I used in my job and I can communicate with Chinese people with intermediate level. Finally It is my great pleasure if my activity could work in the mutual understang with foreign visitors. Thanks a Lot !

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    Aug 4, 2026
    Elie_S
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Wonderful and informative walking tour with Michi
    We had a lovely…

    Jul 19, 2026
    Wander35832177180
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Kyoto temple tour
    Our Kyoto guided tour (Aioi Michiharu) was a…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Abby_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour. Highly recommend
    Michi our guide was excellent!…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Javier P
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto gems
    Michi was incredibly courteous and informative.…

  • Takayama Customized Half-Day Tour

    Takayama Customized Half-Day Tour

    Takayama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Hotel 8:15 Kokubunji Temple 8:45 Miyagawa Morning Market 9:30 Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine 10:30 Old townscape, Miyagawa Morning Market again 11:00 Shiroyama Park 12:00 Dismissal

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of Hida-Takayama Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a friendly and cheerful group from North America. The whole group was warm-hearted, and spending time with them made me feel happy myself. They were delighted to feed the carp at the Miyagawa River. The Yatai Kaikan (Festival Floats Exhibition Hall) charged 900 yen per person even after the discount, so we decided to skip it. The guests said they wanted to walk the Higashiyama Walking Course, but since one member of the group seemed a bit tired at that time, I suggested an alternative route. Toward the end, we also passed by Yamazakura Shrine, where a votive plaque market was being held, and I guided them around as much as possible.

    Click here for more details: Takayama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local 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.

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    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…

  • Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

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

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Hotel → 13:30 Miyajima → 14:40 Itsukushima Shrine → 15:30 Omotesando Shopping Street → 16:40 Peace Memorial Park → 17:00 Peace Memorial Museum → 20:00 Hotel

    What Is a Private Miyajima and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. They shared that they love traveling together, and after visiting North America last year, they wanted to come to Japan this year to experience a completely different culture. Some of the guests were fluent in English, having studied it at school, and while there were occasional moments when English did not fully get through to others, one of the guests interpreted, so there were no problems. The guests commented that the food in Japan was very delicious, and that Japan was very safe and easy to travel in. On the day of the tour, we visited Miyajima and the Peace Memorial Museum. It was very hot during the day, and the guests were a little worn out by the heat. Before the tour, I had advised them to drink plenty of water to prevent heatstroke, but they did not seem accustomed to the heat in Japan. To help ease the heat even a little, I offered the guests salt candy and cooling goods. At the end, the guests said it had been a wonderful experience and that they were glad they had come to Hiroshima, and we said goodbye with smiles.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusDanbara Chuo～Hiroshima Station220JPY
    Section 2TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 3FerryMiyajimaguchi～Miyajima300JPY
    Section 4TrainMiyajima～Miyajimaguchi200JPY
    Section 5TrainMiyajimaguchi～Shin-Hakushima330JPY
    Section 6TrainShin-Hakushima～Kenchomae190JPY
    Section 7BusPeace Memorial Park～Danbara Chuo440JPY
    Total2,100JPY

    Tour Report by Michi

    Hello, I’m Minami Michimoto, your guide. Thank you for planning to visit Japan. Let me introduce myself. I have lived in Indiana, USA, for 9 years. Later, I grew up in Hiroshima and I have stayed my life mostly in Hiroshima. Hiroshima has two world heritage that is The Atomic Bomb Dome and Itsukushima Shrine. The localities are lemon, oysters, Hiroshima style Okonomiyaki (Japanese pancakes), and conger eel.
    My favorite foods are tofu and natto, and my favorite color is green. In my free time, I enjoy traveling and swimming. How about you? Please share some information about yourself with me while I guide you. I am committed to ensuring you have a memorable trip. Feel free to let me know if you have any specific places you’d like to visit or places you’d prefer to avoid. I will tailor a plan to suit your preferences. I know a lot about Hiroshima, so I definitely can share a good spot for you.

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    Jul 7, 2025
    The4Monkeys
    Hiroshima tour—Excellent experience even in the heat!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Yesterday we…

    Aug 10, 2024
    Rudy_P
    Half day tour to Peace Memorial.
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Michi was an excellent…

    Aug 3, 2024
    FabioC2492
    Amazing tour Hiroshima with Minami Michimoto
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    A beautiful day…

    Jul 15, 2024
    John L
    Fascinating day out
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Michi was a fantastic guide…