Category: Uncategorized

  • Aomori: the Aomori cruise terminal & Aomori cruise terminal arr

    Aomori: the Aomori cruise terminal & Aomori cruise terminal arr

    Aomori Shore Excursion: Custom Car Tour, Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • Dear Karen Meltser’s Group (7-persons)
    • Welcome to Aomori !
    • 【Hirosaki Tour】 3rd August 2024
    • ～Itinerary ～
    • 11:30 At the Aomori cruise terminal.
    • To the Hirosaki by a chartered taxi
    • 12:30 – 13:00
    • Five-storied pagoda in Saihouin temple
    • 13:00 – 14:00
    • Lunch : @ Kafukutei “Japanese backwheat noodle SOBA restaurant”
    • 14:00 – 15:00
    • Hirosaki park – Hirosaki castle　（Admission fee: 310 yen/one-person)
    • By a chartered taxi　
    • 15:00-16:30 Tsugaru-han Neputa Village (Shamisen (three-stringed musical instrument show ) （Admission fee: 600 yen/one-person)
    • 16:30 Tsugaru-han Neputa Village dept. By a chartered taxi
    • 17:30 Aomori cruise terminal arr.

    Title: What Is a Private Aomori Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Hirosaki Castle, Apple Orchards, and Tsugaru I guided a multi-generational family visiting from North America on August 2024. The route covered the Five-Story Pagoda of Saishoin Temple, Hirosaki Castle, Tsugaru-han Neputa Village, the rural countryside, and an apple orchard. One of the guests, upon hearing that I had angina, immediately pulled out cardiovascular images on a smartphone and began asking questions about stents and my condition. Another of the guests was very knowledgeable about Japanese history and was studying Japanese economic history of the Edo and Meiji periods. It was the first visit to Japan for all of them, and one of the guests, who was also a photographer, enthusiastically photographed the scenery of Aomori and wanted to see rice-farming areas and apple orchards, so I took the group to the rural fields of the Tsugaru Plain and the apple orchards in Namioka. Since some of the guests had allergies, lunch was at a soba restaurant. They thoroughly enjoyed sake, beer, and apple juice, and found everything delicious. When the English pronunciation of "soba" sounded like "kasha" (the Russian word for buckwheat), I asked if they had Russian roots. It turned out that some of the guests had been born in Europe and had moved to North America in early childhood. They said they used to eat buckwheat every day. They came to love the apple pie and apple soft-serve ice cream of Hirosaki! One of the guests asked me to recommend a good soba restaurant, as they wanted to eat soba in Tokyo as well. They mentioned that their home region is at about the same latitude as Aomori and reportedly gets even more snow than Aomori. Although there are no mountains as high as Mount Hakkoda there, everyone in the group enjoys skiing. One of the guests said that in a few years they would like to go skiing on Mount Hakkoda together!

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

    Tour Report by Tomohiko

    My name is Tomohiko Kudo.
    I live in Aomori city.
    I already visited more than 30 nations so far.
    After official retirement from the public officer, I could have the Japanese Government Licensed Guide Certificate and am nowadays very pleased to guide overseas tourists all over the world.
    Did you know that the Fuji apple is not from Mt.Fuji…but is actually from Aomori Prefecture’ Fujisaki town. Aomori is proud of the biggest apple product in
    Japan. We provide 40 apple-pie restaurants to guests.
    Let’s enjoy real Japanese culture and history with me. I would enjoy with you real Samuri history, Kimono culture, local traditional festivals, castle,
    Japanese garden, temple, shrine, Japanese tea ceremony, food and Sake.
    I often go to the local sea food and vegetable markets and eat fresh foods and would love to show you some secret, hidden restaurants that only Aomori locals know about – let’s go on an adventure together.
    If you like sushi and fresh seafood, let me introduce to Nokkedon ?
    What is it? Come to Aomori and find out! I am waiting for you.

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    Jun 2, 2025
    413maryannb
    Tomohiko organized our day beautifully! The car was immaculate, the driver skilled. We thoroughly enjoyed our day!
    Tripadvisor review: Aomori Full-Day…

    Apr 30, 2025
    Jacqueline_F
    Great Guide, great tour
    Viator review: Aomori Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    We experienced the wonderful sites of Aomori which…

    Dec 30, 2024
    Scenic33296385055
    Warm and professional guide
    Tripadvisor review: Aomori Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mr. Kudo-san is very professional, meticulate and kind…

    Aug 3, 2024
    Monika R
    Fun and informative tour – great tour guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Aomori Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    We were 3…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Hotel – 11:45 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace – 13:00 Tsukiji Outer Market – 13:40 Lunch – 14:45 Omotesando – 15:00 Harajuku Takeshita Street, disband

    What's a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe, coming to Japan for essentially the first time on a one-week trip. After I gave an overview of Japanese history and culture, we started at the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. At the Imperial Palace, the guests enjoyed the contrast between Edo-era culture and modern Japan, and then we headed out to explore Japan's food culture. At a dried goods shop in the Tsukiji Outer Market, the guests bought two large shopping bags full of items, including dried kelp and dried squid from Hokkaido. For lunch, at the request of one of the guests, we went to a wagyu beef restaurant. The guests thoroughly enjoyed the delicious flavor of Japanese beef. This private full-day tour of Tokyo was arranged through [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNational Diet Building～Otemachi178JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi～Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukiji～Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Total565JPY

    Tour Report by Michio

    Welcome to Japan. My name is Michio, your tour guide in Tokyo and Japan. I was born and grown up in Tokyo, and still living in western suburb of Tokyo with my wife, except for 10 years outside of Japan travelling and living in 60 countries. So I might have visited your country and still remember a few words.
    Japan has unique history, nature and culture, and there are plenty of secrets and wonders behind them such as food culture, Zen and Ninja.
    So please explore and discover the hidden and most beautiful part of Japan together. Let’s experience!

    Request Booking

    Oct 25, 2025
    Carla_G
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking…
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking tour was fantastic! Michio…

    Oct 24, 2025
    410trishab
    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 10/10 — Outstanding Tour with Michio and Nobuhiko!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from…

    Oct 11, 2025
    GoPlaces52694049181
    We enjoyed our time in Tokyo with Michio our tour guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We…

    Oct 10, 2025
    PiscesV
    Sushi for breakfast at 630am? Yes please!!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

  • 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

    • 0800 Hotel Higashi-Shinjuku Kabukicho Tower (8 min from JR Shinjuku Station, 3 min from Oedo Line Higashi-Shinjuku Station) Meet
    • 0825 Shibuya Scramble Crossing Hachiko Statue
    • 0850 Harajuku Meiji Shrine Visit Takeshita Street
    • 1110 Tsukiji Outer Market ~ Kabukiza ~ Ginza 4-chome Crossing
    • 1220 Asakusa Nakamise Sensoji Temple
    • 1410 Shinjuku Dismiss at 3D Cat Display

    # What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Asakusa The guests were visitors from North America who had arrived the previous night. Since they had not yet seen the Kabukicho area where they were staying, I gave a brief introduction to Tokyo's premier nightlife district as we made our way out to Godzilla Road and on to JR Shinjuku Station. Because it was still early in the morning and the shops on Takeshita Street had not yet opened, we started the tour from Shibuya. As they mentioned they would be coming to Shibuya that evening to ride go-karts, the timing worked out well. Meiji Shrine was cool and pleasant, but around the main sanctuary the sky cleared completely and the temperature began to rise. On the way to Takeshita Street, the guests wanted to stop at H&M, so we waited for about 20 minutes. They seemed to love shopping and said they also planned to visit UNIQLO and 109 in the evening. At Tsukiji, one of the guests thoroughly enjoyed rock oysters, while the other did not seem to be as fond of them. At Senso-ji Temple, the temperature rose sharply, so rather than lingering, the guests decided to head back to their accommodation once to rest in preparation for the evening. This summer, conserving one's energy is also an important part of touring.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Shibuya167JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya～Harajuku146JPY
    Section 3Free PassMeiji-Jingumae ~ Hibiya～Tsukiji600JPY
    Section 4Free PassGinza～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 5Free PassAsakusa ~ Akasaka-mitsuke～Shinjuku0JPY
    Total913JPY

    Tour Report by Ted

    I had worked in the international business scene for over 40 years and traveled to North America and European countries over 1000 days.
    After I retired from the business, I traveled to most of the major sightseeing spots in all 47 prefectures in Japan.

    My guide is starting from a brief history of the site where I am going to guide. I usually add a briefing about Japanese culture based on religions, such as Shinto Shrine and Buddhist temples. A geographic background behind the history is also important.
    My course includes 4 to 5 (in 6 hours) sites from the following depending on where I will pick the guests up;
    – Senso ji Temple
    – Kappabashi Kitchenware Market
    – Tokyo Skytree
    – Ueno Park
    – Nezu Shrine
    – Imperial Palace outer park
    – Tokyo Central Station, Marunouchi historic district
    – Tsukiji Fish Market
    – Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    – Ginza
    – Odaiba
    – Hama Rikyu Garden
    – Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
    – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
    – Roppongi
    – Meiji Shrine
    – Harajuku & Takeshita Street
    – Shibuya
    – and Any of your interest.

    I am happy to introduce Japanese Manga/Anime cultures such as Akihabara, Nakano Broadway and Ghibli related sites.
    Travelling along the JR central line where guests can stopover at major animation studios (it is not accepted to visit the inside). The majority of animation studios such as TMS Entertainment, SUNRISE, A1 Pictures etc. are located in this area. Suginami Animation museum, Studio Ghibli and Ghibli Museum are also located.
    Guests can feel old houses in the Spirited Away scene in the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.

    I can also provide a pilgrimage to the sacred place (shooting location) for the Shinkai Makoto animation movies such as Your name, Weathering with you, and Suzume.

    Another interesting feature is to visit authentic Japanese style pub meals such as Yakitori, Karaage, and Sushi etc.
    Asakusa Hoppy Street, Ameyoko Street, Yurakucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku Golden gai, Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho are nice to visit.

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

    In addition to the above, I am available in the neighboring cities.

    Kawagoe is an old town developed in the 17th century. It has very close relationship with the Edo central government. Kawagoe castle ruins, Kitain temple and 500 Buddha statues will welcome the guests.
    These areas are renovated and provide an old days atmosphere.
    Japanese style sweets food stands will fascinate the guests.
    Kawagoe is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    Kamakura is the first Samurai worriers government established in the late 12th century.
    The Buddhism are introduced to Japan in the 6th century, and flourished at Nara and Kyoto later. A newer Buddhism sect such as Zen has well developed at Kamakura area.
    Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Gigantic Buddha statue at Kotokuin Temple and the flower temple Hasedera Temple are must-see.
    Kamakura is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    I am also happy to develop any other site the guests have interest.

    Request Booking

    Sep 24, 2026
    Leslie_R
    Good tour on first day
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Ted, our guide was…

    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

    Jun 26, 2026
    ann r
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Educational with kind, generous guide
    My teenage sons and I learned…

    Jun 14, 2026
    141yunb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
    We…

  • Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajimaguchi Ferry Terminal

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajimaguchi Ferry Terminal

    Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 14:00　Miyajimaguchi Ferry Terminal
    • 14:15　Arrive at Miyajima
    • 　　　 Omotesando Street ~ Itsukushima Shrine ~ Miyajima Aquarium ~
    • 　　　 Daisho-in Temple ~ Five-story Pagoda, etc.　Sightseeing
    • 18:10　Depart Miyajima
    • 18:25　Arrive at Miyajimaguchi Ferry Terminal
    • 　　　 Dismissal

    Title: What Is a Private Miyajima Afternoon Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: Since I was never able to contact the guests directly beforehand, I felt anxious about whether we would actually be able to meet on the day. I was relieved when we successfully met at 13:50. Because most shops on the island close around 5:00 in the evening, we walked through Omotesando first, and it was heartwarming to see some of the guests stopping at various shops and enjoying themselves. Thanks to the preparations I had made in advance, we were able to see the sea lion show at the aquarium, and because of the tides, we were also able to walk near the torii gate. Despite the intense heat, the guests did their best to keep walking, taking occasional breaks to hydrate. The guests told me they had arrived in Hiroshima the day before, and had visited Shukkeien on the morning of the tour day. They mentioned that there had been no particular issue that would have prevented them from starting earlier, and said that if they had known, they would have come sooner. In hindsight, I felt that a smoother flow of information could have helped the guests enjoy Miyajima even more fully within the limited time available. Most facilities and temples in Miyajima, as well as the Omotesando shopping street with its many eateries, close around 17:00, so I had hoped an earlier start would allow more time to explore. My sincere hope is simply that guests visiting Japan can be given every opportunity to enjoy their experience to the fullest.

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

    Tour Report by Hiro

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

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

    Request Booking

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

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

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Egret Himeji & Nadagiku Sake Brewery

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Egret Himeji & Nadagiku Sake Brewery

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet @ JR Himeji Station
    • 10:15 @ Egret Himeji
    • 10:45 @ Himeji Castle
    • 12:45 @ Kokoen Garden
    • 13:15 @ Nadagiku Sake Brewery
    • 14:15 Disband @ JR Himeji Station

    Title: What Is a Private Himeji Castle Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan. They contacted me to say they would be about 15 minutes late because they had purchased the wrong Shinkansen ticket from Kyoto, and in the end the tour started about 30 minutes late. The weather was unusually hot again today, and since some of the guests appeared tired, we took frequent breaks. On the way to Himeji Castle, I guided the group to the rooftop of the "Egret Himeji" building, which was not included in the itinerary, where they were very pleased to be able to see a full view of Himeji Castle. At Himeji Castle, some of the guests toured with great interest, though others did not seem especially interested. We spent too much time at Himeji Castle, so the subsequent visits to Koko-en Garden and Nadagiku Sake Brewery became a rushed tour. The guests showed great interest in the large carp at Koko-en Garden. At Nadagiku Sake Brewery, they all put on the provided "happi" coats and enjoyed taking photos together. They also enjoyed the tasting (some of the guests had non-alcoholic amazake) and purchased many souvenirs. I helped them buy tickets to Kyoto at Himeji Station, and we parted ways slightly over the scheduled time.

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

    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…

  • Nara in One Day: Kasuga Taisha Shrine & Yakushi-ji Temple

    Nara in One Day: Kasuga Taisha Shrine & Yakushi-ji Temple

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meeting In front of Kintetsu Nara Station
    • 10:00 to 11:00 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 11:30 to 12:40 Todai-ji Temple
    • 13:00 to 13:30 Kofuku-ji Temple
    • 13:45 to 14:30 Lunch at Higashimuki Shopping Street
    • 14:45 to 15:30 Yakushi-ji Temple
    • 15:45 Dismissal Kintetsu Yamato-Saidaiji Station

    What Is a Private Nara Day Tour Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report Today the temperature in Nara City again rose above 35 degrees. The guests were visiting from North America, where the annual maximum temperature is only around 30 degrees, and they said they were struggling with the heat in Japan. The guests had toured Kyoto the previous day and said their fatigue had reached its peak today. Some of the guests found the heat difficult, and after finishing the first spot, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, they said they wanted to return to the Hotel because it was so hot. At Yakushiji Temple after lunch, one of the guests stayed in an air-conditioned cafe with some of the group, while I guided the remaining three. I was relieved to have completed the tour safely once again.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusNara City Bus Kintetsu Nara Station～Nara City Bus Kasuga Taisha Honden-mae100JPY
    Section 2TrainKintetsu Train Nara～Kintetsu Train Nishinokyo300JPY
    Section 3TrainKintetsu Train Nishinokyo～Kintetsu Train Yamato-Saidaiji240JPY
    Total640JPY

    Tour Report by Haru

    Personal data
    Born in : May 1st, 1957
    Hobby : Visiting scenic places,
    historic spots, Japanese
    gardens and old townscape
    Former career : Worked for electric
    company and engaged in
    international sales for
    about 40 years.
    Travel history in the former career :
    Visited about 20 countries about 200 times

    Career as guide interpreter
    Acquisition of guide license : 2016
    Career of guide : 8 years
    Genre of my specialty :
    Japanese historic structures such as
    temple, shrine, castle and garden.
    Area of guide : Kyoto, Nara, Osaka &
    Himeji

    Let’s enjoy Japan with me !!

    Request Booking

    Dec 30, 2024
    shannono1010
    Haru is a Rock Star
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a fantastic guide. He explained…

    Dec 29, 2024
    Ali O
    Amazing!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was amazing on our tour of Nara. He was…

    Dec 4, 2024
    D5658ZEjohnr
    Trip to some of the Kyoto sites on our visit to Japan.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with…

    Dec 3, 2024
    Charlie_Jane00
    Kyoto Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a well organised and very informative guide. He…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Sanjusangendo

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Sanjusangendo

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel Wing International Premium Kyoto Sanjo Meet up
    • 10:30~11:30 Nijo Castle
    • 12:00~12:40 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 13:10~14:50 Sanjusangendo
    • 14:00 Keihan Shichijo　Dismissal

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nijo Castle, Fushimi Inari, and Sanjusangendo The guests were a group from Europe who traveled through Tokyo and Hakone before coming to Kyoto. One of the guests, a fan of the soccer player Mitoma, enjoyed the tour while wearing the Japan national team uniform. At Nijo Castle, the guests were impressed by the architecture of the Ninomaru Palace, the decorations and carvings of the Karamon Gate, and the mannequins of the shogun and daimyo displayed in the palace's grand hall. We also discussed the history of Japan's shogun and their relationship with the emperor. At Fushimi Inari Taisha, the guests remarked that Japan's Shinto reverence for nature and the nature worship of the Norse Viking gods shared many similarities. Finally, at Sanjusangendo, the guests were amazed that a building and Buddhist statues more than 700 years old have survived so beautifully preserved. They were also fascinated to learn that Japanese Buddhism was influenced by Hinduism and Persian culture.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwaySanjo～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijojo-mae～Kyoto260JPY
    Section 3TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 4SubwayFushimi Inari～Shichijo170JPY
    Total800JPY

    Tour Report by shige

    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.

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Takayama Customized Half-Day Tour

    Takayama Customized Half-Day Tour

    Takayama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel　9:10 Takayama Jinya and Morning Market　10:00 Miyagawa Morning Market　10:40 Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine and Yatai Kaikan　12:00 Higashiyama Walking Trail　13:00 Disband at the Old Townscape

    What Is a Private Walking Tour in Takayama Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a friendly group visiting from Europe. Despite the intense heat of 36 degrees, they remained focused on their goal of visiting shrines and temples. They enjoyed an energetic walk, staying mindful of hydration while working up a sweat, and made their way as far as the Higashiyama Walking Trail. They mentioned that the Sakurayama Nikkokan was not necessary. They had moved from their original accommodation, which surprised me, but it turned out to be a courtesy upgrade from the Hotel. The guests were pleased to have such a beautiful room. The starting point was in front of the Jinya, so there was no loss of time, and it was nice that they could relax inside the Jinya. The wind chime festival at Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine was also very well received.

    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…

  • 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

    • 1.09:00@Hotel Tokyu
    • 2.09:30@Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 3.11:00@Meiji Shrine
    • 4.12:40@Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center Observation Deck
    • 5.13:00 Lunch@Udon Restaurant
    • 6.13:45@Sensoji Temple. Nakamise, Five-Story Pagoda
    • 7.14:25@To the Hotel
    • 8.15:00 Dismissal＠Hotel Tokyu

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Meiji Shrine, and Asakusa The guests had arrived the day before. They mentioned they were used to hot weather, but the high humidity seemed to be challenging for them. Since one of the guests had some knee trouble, we used escalators and elevators as much as possible. The group has traveled to many countries, but this was their first visit to Japan. They said everywhere was clean and the people were friendly and kind. At the Tsukiji Outer Market, they enjoyed seeing the various fish and ingredients. They also said Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple was beautiful. At Meiji Shrine, they admired the beauty of the forest and buildings, purchased an ema votive tablet, and wrote their wishes. In Asakusa, one of the guests had a tonkatsu set meal and udon, while another, who likes fish, had grilled fish along with a specially prepared salad of cabbage and cucumber, and said the fish was very delicious. However, we had walked quite a lot, and with the high humidity they seemed quite tired in the latter half. I hope they enjoyed themselves.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNational Diet Building～Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji～Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Asakusa252JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa～Tameike-Sanno209JPY
    Total848JPY

    Tour Report by FUMIKO

    Hello, I am Fumiko, an English-speaking Tourist Guide. I have been guiding foreign visitors science 2016. Please let me know your bucket lists whiles you are staying in Japan and what you are interested in. I will make the best plan for you. This is an once in a lifetime experience for you. As for myself, I love traveling, meeting people, eating local food, drinking, history, and art. I am learning Ikebana, traditional Japanese-style flower arrangement, and tea ceremony. I also love sports, especially tennis. I like children, so I can teach them some origami, folding paper. I am looking forward to hearing from you and seeing you in Japan.

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    Sep 29, 2026
    W9834MZdavidn
    First Visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    We had an absolutely wonderful day…

    Sep 12, 2026
    Don_G
    Tokyo 6 hour Tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    We had a great time on…

    Jul 27, 2026
    zyarisa
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko tour good vibes only
    Mrs. fumiko was very…

    Jul 23, 2026
    734mortenp
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Nice tour of Tokyo
    Don’t visit Tokyo without a guide! You’ll…

  • Otaru Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Otaru Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Otaru Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:20 Meet up @ Otaru Station
    • 2. 10:28 Sankaku Market
    • 3. 10:50 Otaru General Museum (Use taxi for transportation)
    • 4. 11:50 Nitori Museum (Otaru Art Village) (Use taxi for transportation)
    • 5. 12:55 Lunch @ Nihonbashi (Sushi restaurant)
    • 6. 13:50 Otaru Canal
    • 7. 14:20 Tanaka Sake Brewery Kikkogura
    • 8. 14:55 Sakaimachi Street (Music Box Hall / Kitaichi Glass)
    • 9. 16:05 Otaru Financial Museum
    • 10. 16:40 @ Naruto

    Title: What Is a Private Otaru Food Tour Like from Sapporo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a visitor from Asia who had traveled to Japan many times, including Hokkaido, and was very familiar with the country. On this day, the guest came from Sapporo, where they were staying, to Otaru, and we met at Otaru Station. I had asked about their dining preferences in advance, and they said they wanted to try local food for both lunch and dinner. So I suggested several options, and in the end we decided on "Nihonbashi" on Sushi-ya Street for lunch and the famous local restaurant "Naruto" in Otaru for dinner. I arranged the itinerary so that I would take them to "Naruto" and part ways there. At the end, the guest said they would like to come to Hokkaido again next year.

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

    Tour Report by Tom

    I was born and raised in Hokkaido and have been a resident of Sapporo for over 30 years. I have been actively involved in guiding tourists around the scenic spots of Hokkaido, primarily focusing on Sapporo. Even before becoming a licensed interpreter guide, I engaged in volunteer activities to assist and guide foreigners, providing me with valuable opportunities to delve into the rich culture and history of Hokkaido.
    Hokkaido is renowned for its exceptional culinary scene, and I am well-versed in gourmet information. I believe I can offer an excellent experience by guiding individuals through the highly acclaimed food experiences that Hokkaido has to offer.

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    Aug 15, 2026
    I654RPsandib
    Great experience
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We thoroughly enjoyed our 6 hours touring Sapporo with…

    Apr 22, 2026
    Agent PT A
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Super Sapporo in April with Tom.
    Tom was kind…

    Feb 10, 2026
    Alan_C
    Very enjoyable and well…
    Viator review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Very enjoyable and well worth it. Our…

    Sep 24, 2025
    saratW9816BN
    Tour up to the Moiwa mountain and lots more
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We’ve had…