Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • PM15:00 Hotel Gion Meet-up
    • PM15:30 Sanjusangendo
    • PM17:00 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • PM18:00 Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka, Ishibei-koji Alley
    • PM19:00 Gion Dismissal

    What Is a Rainy-Day Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Unfortunately it rained, and at times the rain was heavy, so we had to take shelter twice. The guests seemed deeply impressed by the 1,001 statues of Kannon at Sanjusangendo and by the lush green mountainside of Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Since the guests would be staying in Kyoto for three more days, I let them know that the Yamahoko float procession of the Gion Festival would take place on the 17th. The Gion area was already decorated for the festival and street stalls were set up, so the guests were able to see a side of Kyoto unique to this season. It was the guests' first time in Japan, and despite the rain and the waiting time for the bus, they never became irritable and were very pleasant to be with.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKiyomizu-michi～Sanjusangendo-mae230JPY
    Section 2BusSanjusangendo-mae～Kiyomizu-michi230JPY
    Total460JPY

    Tour Report by Naoki

    I am Naoki Nakatani. I live in Osaka.
    I started tour guide from 2023 after 40 years
    work experience in Japanese manufacturing company. I am currently teaching Japanese as volunteer staff to foreign residents who live in my community. I have 11 and half years work experience in overseas office and I had interacted with people of foreign countries for a long time enjoying business and friendship with them. My guide experience is still short but I will provide my best service to the guests. I am in a position to prepare the itinerary if guests request and to send any information for the guest to make plan before visit to Japan.

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    Jul 11, 2026
    Trevor_F
    Viator review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    4 hour Private Tour
    Naomi was our guide and did a…

    Jun 6, 2026
    May_O
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful time in Kyoto
    We had a terrific time with Naoki. He…

    May 1, 2026
    Sanfrancisco820
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Choose Naoki – you will have a great day!!
    Naoki is an…

    Mar 28, 2026
    Tanya_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great guide
    Naoki was very kind and knowledgeable He knew the best…

  • Shizuoka: Kashi no Ichi & Seiken-ji Temple

    Shizuoka: Kashi no Ichi & Seiken-ji Temple

    Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30　Meet at Shimizu Port
    • 9:50　Nihondaira Yume Terrace, Nihondaira Tea Museum
    • 10:50 Miho no Matsubara, Miho Shrine
    • 12:15 Kashi no Ichi
    • 13:40 Shizuoka City Tokaido Hiroshige Museum of Art
    • 14:40 Seiken-ji Temple
    • 15:30 Disperse at Shimizu Port

    What Is a Private Shizuoka Day Tour from Shimizu Port Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were two people arriving by cruise ship. Because I had informed the guests in advance that the weather would require precautions against heat, they had reserved a private vehicle beforehand for the tour. At Shimizu Port, we were able to start the tour right at the meeting time without waiting for a taxi, and during the drive the guests could relax comfortably in the cool car. Unfortunately, there was a lot of cloud cover, so we could not get a satisfying view of Mount Fuji, but the guests enjoyed the view of Shizuoka City from Nihondaira Yume Terrace and the history and scenery of Miho no Matsubara. For Mount Fuji, they viewed it through photos and video. Since the guests drink various kinds of tea at home, I guided them to a tea hall. They saw the tea fields, and when they sampled green tea they seemed to like it very much, buying Shizuoka tea as a souvenir. At the Kashi no Ichi market, they had seafood rice bowls and tempura rice bowls, and appeared very satisfied. As the guests were interested in culture and art, they listened attentively to explanations at each destination and in the car. There were no particular problems, and thanks to the cooperation of the driver, we were able to complete the entire itinerary smoothly. The guests were very pleased.

    Click here for more details: Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Anne

    Hello, I’m Anne. I was born and raised in Shizuoka. As a student, I volunteered as an interpreter guide in Kyoto. I love traveling and even worked for a travel company in the past. I like learning different cultures, too. After graduating from a graduate school in Australia, I came back to Shizuoka and have been teaching at a high school and a university. I am also certified as a Japanese (language) teacher. Through my experiences living in different places and my interest in Japan, I realized again the charms of Japan and Shizuoka. This passion for sharing the attractions of Japan, especially Shizuoka, led me to become a national licensed guide interpreter in March 2024. Shizuoka is an attractive destination for its rich nature, fascinating history and culture, and delicious local foods. I would be delighted to help you discover more about Shizuoka and make your stay even more memorable!

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    Sep 22, 2024
    Bertold_K
    Beautiful landscape
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    Anne war eine freundliche und flexible Stadtführerrin.…

    Aug 30, 2024
    G
    Guy_P
    Great all around view of Shimizu!
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    Anne was…

    Jun 17, 2024
    Travis_P
    Great tour
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    We had a great tour with Anne.…

    Jul 16, 2024
    Cosmopolitan227787
    Beautiful Shizuoka !
    Tripadvisor review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    This tour was amazing. Anne our…

  • Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 We met at the Hotel shuttle bus arrival point at JR Maihama Station, discussed the places they wanted to visit that day, and started the tour. The destinations were Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Akihabara. All transportation could be done with a Tokyo Metro one-day pass, but Mr. Rodney mentioned that he might possibly change the destinations, and just in case, he wanted to be able to ride any subway line, so we used the 900 yen common ticket. Having decided this, we traveled from JR Maihama to JR Shinkiba Station on the Keiyo Line, and purchased the 900 yen subway common one-day pass at Yurakucho Line Shinkiba Station.
    • 10:10 Arrived at Shibuya Scramble Crossing. Also greeted Hachiko. When we were about to move to Harajuku, Ms. Malia requested, "I want to go to the Nintendo Store," so we walked from the Scramble Crossing to shop at the Nintendo Store and Pokemon Center on the 6th floor of Shibuya PARCO. After finishing, we moved to Harajuku.
    • 11:35 Arrived at Meiji-jingumae. Guided them through Meiji Shrine.
    • 12:40 Guided them through Takeshita Street. Everyone ate Marion Crepes. After finishing, they wanted to have lunch, so we moved to Shinjuku 3-chome to have lunch before visiting Gyoen.
    • 13:50-14:40 Lunch at Keika Ramen. After finishing, headed to Shinjuku Gyoen.
    • 14:50-15:40 Strolled through Shinjuku Gyoen. After finishing, when I confirmed we would go to Akihabara, they requested to change it to Ginza, so we went to Ginza. His wife wanted to visit a kimono shop.
    • 16:10-17:30 Ms. Kakila purchased a kimono at "Kimono Tosui" on the 6th floor of the Ginza Kabukiza Gallery Building. Mr. Rodney and the two daughters wanted to stroll around nearby, so I took them to Kyukyodo for shopping.
    • 17:30 Explained how to return to the hotel from Yurakucho Line Ginza-itchome Station, and ended the tour in front of Ginza Kabukiza.

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street, and Ginza The group very much liked Meiji Shrine, describing it as "a very serene place." On Takeshita Street, one of the guests wanted to try the crepes from a well-known shop, and just as expected, they said it was delicious, which was a relief. For lunch, they asked me to recommend something light and left the choice to me, so to be safe I suggested tonkotsu ramen at a reliable shop, and they kindly said it was "very delicious ramen," which put me at ease. The group also greatly enjoyed the Imperial Garden. When the tour ended in front of the Kabukiza Theatre, the guests told me, "You are the best guide," so I feel that they were satisfied with the tour.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMaihama～Shinkiba180JPY
    Section 2SubwayShinkiba～Shibuya900JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya～Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 4SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Shinjuku-sanchome0JPY
    Section 5SubwayShinjuku-gyoemmae～Ginza0JPY
    Total1,080JPY

    Tour Report by MINORUASAI

    I acquired national guide license in 2014, and I have been doing guide work full fledged since 2016. In my career before starting guide work, I was a business man and made more than 1,000 business trips both abroad and in Japan, and that experience is my foundation as a guide because I came to know so many places both abroad and in Japan. I have been taking care of both group and individual tourists, and the number of foreign guests I have taken care is close to 2,500 so far. I am based in Tokyo, but I can cover guide work in many prefectures throughout Japan. When I take care of foreign guests, my major concern is to listen attentively to them, find out what they want to know and do in Japan, and give them appropriate guiding in accordance with what I heard from my guests. I would like to provide tailor made tour as much as possible for every precious guest who kindly chose Japan as the tour destination.

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    Aug 1, 2025
    8
    898kendrap
    Great first day in Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Asai, our tour guide, made our…

    Jul 14, 2025
    Anette_V
    Perfect
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide Minoru Asai was very friendly and knowledgeable about culture,…

    Jun 30, 2025
    liammL2246HL
    Amazing experience
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing private tour with Minoru Asai! We…

    Jun 26, 2025
    394milesd
    Excellent guide making an excellent day in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A perfect day, tailored…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Higashi-ginza Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Higashi-ginza Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting point: Hotel GrandBach Tokyo Ginza
    • 10:10 Depart Higashi-ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 10:40 Shinjuku Station
    • Shinjuku Metropolitan Government Building Observatory
    • Omoide Yokocho
    • Kabukicho
    • 11:40 Depart Shinjuku Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • 12:00 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • 12:50 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 13:00 Arrive Omotesando Station
    • Omotesando Omotesando
    • 13:50 Depart Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 14:00 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 14:20 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 14:40 Arrive Ginza Station
    • 14:40 Disband: Ginza Station

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shinjuku, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. One of the guests had visited Japan several times before, while the others were visiting for the first time. They had arrived at Haneda Airport the previous night. In the evening, they strolled around Ginza and then enjoyed sushi together for dinner. They remarked, "We had no idea Japan would be this hot." They planned to stay in Japan for 12 days. After spending time in Tokyo, they would travel to Hakone, Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka, then return to Tokyo before heading home. One of the guests said, "I want to get a sense of everyday Japanese life. I'd like to walk around the city and see various places." It was a tour held in hot and humid weather. First, we headed to Shinjuku and visited the observation deck of the Metropolitan Government Building. "Now I really understand what a vast city Tokyo is," they said. We were able to faintly see Mount Fuji. Afterward, we moved to Meiji Shrine. At Meiji Shrine, they asked questions such as "What is the difference between Buddhism and Shinto?" and "Do Japanese people believe in Buddhism or Shinto?" I explained about the nature and history of the Japanese imperial family. There were also questions such as "Why did the Meiji Restoration happen?" One of the guests suddenly expressed a wish to walk along Omotesando, so we strolled leisurely along Omotesando. They asked, "Which is more glamorous, Ginza or Omotesando?" After that, we moved to Shibuya. At the Scramble Crossing, they commented, "Why are there so many people here?" and "It reminds me of Times Square in New York." We took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. They made comments such as "Everywhere in the city is clean and quiet. There's no litter on the ground," "No one talks loudly on the trains," and "The trains run so frequently." They also said that their home city used to be a quiet, pleasant place, but has since become noisier and less clean. They said they wanted to have sushi for lunch in Ginza. I saw them off at Ginza Station, where we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-ginza Station～Shinjuku Station209JPY
    Section 2SubwayShinjuku Station～Meiji-jingumae Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae Station～Omotesando Station178JPY
    Section 4SubwayOmotesando Station～Shibuya Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwayShibuya Station～Ginza Station209JPY
    Total952JPY

    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
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Kobe Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kobe Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kobe Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:30 Meet @ Naka Pier Passenger Terminal
    • 2. 10:10 @ Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
    • 3. 12:10 @ Mount Rokko
    • 4. 12:30 Lunch @ 653Cafe
    • 5. 13:50 @ Kobe Motomachi Shopping Street
    • 6. 14:20 Dismissal @ Naka Pier Passenger Terminal

    Title: What Is a Private Cruise-Port Day Tour of Kobe Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. They appear to have visited Japan several times before. After the tour was booked, the number of participants dropped from seven to five, and it seems that two of the guests, who had toured Nagoya the previous day and were tired, did not join. The guests arrived in Japan on a residential-style cruise ship, and some of them reportedly travel on the cruise ship for nine months out of the year (they also work from their own cabins). The plan for today was to meet at the Naka Pier Passenger Terminal, then sightsee at the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and Mount Rokko, visit the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum (or Sorakuen Garden), and return to the Naka Pier Passenger Terminal via the Motomachi shopping street. However, the weather was poor today, and it began to rain on Mount Rokko. Because of this, after Mount Rokko we went to the Motomachi shopping street via Nankinmachi (Chinatown), then returned to the Naka Pier Passenger Terminal and ended the tour. Although we visited only a few places on today's tour, the guests were pleased with the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and did not seem dissatisfied.

    Click here for more details: Kobe Customized Private Tour by Car 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…

  • Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

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

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • b Hotel ー Kanayamacho ー Miyajimaguchi Station ー Miyajima ー Miyajimaguchi Station ー Nishi-Hiroshima Station ー Peace Park

    Title: What Is a Rainy-Season Private Walking Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. Watching them together felt like observing a living model of natural evolution, with the processes of life, inheritance, and the passage of time on wonderful display. Due to an unexpectedly active seasonal rain front, the weather kept switching between downpours and clear spells, which nearly disrupted the rhythm of the tour, but we managed to hold on at the very last moment. When the mood seemed to be fading, I found that bringing up topics related to the guests' own region livened things up. Silly stories worked surprisingly well, and they helped drive away the awkward silences. It was a day that made me seriously question my own qualities as a guide. Jokes can be a double-edged sword when the situation is misjudged, so I will be more careful from now on.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKanayamacho～Nishi-Hiroshima Station280JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi Station～Nishi-Hiroshima Station330JPY
    Section 3BusNishi-Hiroshima Station～Hiroshima Peace Park220JPY
    Total830JPY

    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…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Himeji Castle

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Himeji Castle

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:50 Meet at Himeji Station North Exit, depart for Himeji Castle by bus
    • 11:10 Sightseeing at Himeji Castle
    • 14:10 Leave Himeji Castle and head to Kagonoya
    • 14:30 Disband at Kagonoya

    What Is a Private Himeji Castle Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They had already toured Tokyo, Osaka, and Kanazawa, and this time they said they only wanted to see the castle, so I let them view the castle slowly and thoroughly. They looked closely not only at the history but also at every detail, including the gates, roof tiles, walls, nails, and woodwork, and they also seemed very interested in the defensive mechanisms. After taking photos at Nishinomaru, there was still a little time left, but since the guests were hungry and asked me to take them somewhere to eat next, I brought them to a restaurant. Since one of the guests wanted a certain type of meal, I chose a place serving meat and sushi.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHimeji Station North Exit～In front of Himeji Castle Otemon Gate190JPY
    Total190JPY

    Tour Report by Rie

    Hello, I’m your tour guide, Rie Ito. Please call me Rie. I have been living in Himeji for 40 years. I would like to show you around our beautiful city. Himeji is very famous for its several sightseeing places. Especially, as the most recommended place, we boast Himeji Castle, the first World Heritage Site of Japan. When you see this message, please contact me through WhatsApp. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask me before the tour. I am sure you will enjoy this local city of Japan with me! I’m looking forward to seeing you. Thank you.

    Request Booking

    Apr 25, 2026
    Alix_M
    Viator review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour of Himeji castle
    Fantastic tour of the beautiful Himeji castle!…

    Oct 3, 2025
    P
    Peggy_M
    Rie is an excellent guide with a lot of knowledge to share
    Viator review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed…

    Aug 6, 2025
    OMAR_A
    Excellente visite avec guide dynamique
    Viator review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour avec une guide compétente et…

    Apr 30, 2025
    JandK14
    A perfect day in Himeji: We saw the cherry blossoms at their peak and had Rie as our guide!
    Tripadvisor review:…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:30 Meet up @Solaria Nishitetsu Kyoto Premier
    • 2. 9:00 @Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 3. 10:30 @Arashiyama
    • 4. 11:45 @Kinkaku-ji
    • 5. 12:30 Dismiss @Sanjo

    The guests were a wonderful group full of laughter. They listened attentively to my explanations, which I truly appreciated. Since it happened to be the Yoiyama eve of the Gion Festival, I explained where, when, and what kinds of events would take place, and we finalized today's itinerary together. We had originally planned to go from Kinkaku-ji to Nishiki Market, but due to the extreme heat and humidity, the guests decided to return to the Hotel for a while, and we parted ways at Sanjo. They told me "You're great!", so I believe they were satisfied. They also mentioned they would take a stroll around Gion in the evening.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSanjo～Fushimi Inari220JPY
    Section 2TrainInari～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 3TrainRanden Arashiyama～Kitano-Hakubaicho250JPY
    Section 4BusKitano-Hakubaicho～Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 5BusKinkakuji-michi～Sanjo230JPY
    Total1,170JPY

    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…

  • Hakodate Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakodate Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakodate Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    July, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • Dear Mishelle Moore
    • Welcome to Hakodate !
    • 【Hakodate Tour】13th July 2024 3-persons
    • ～ Itinerary ～
    • 【Hakodate ART, CULTURE, & HISTORICAL Tour】Hakodate city is a gateway to Hokkaido.
    • You can enjoy sight-seeing through the city with taxi.
    • ●10:00 　Meeting Point:Hakodate cruise terminal⇒Hakodate morning market
    • Stroll around Hakodate morning market with guide.
    • You can find Freshly caught sea food such as squid, snow crab, hairy crab salmon, tuna, scallop etc. Also fresh fruits, dried sea food, sushi bar, squid catching.
    • ●11:20 Kanamori redbrick warehouse
    • In this red brick warehouses, you can enjoy shopping, eating locally populars.
    • Around this spot, we have some coffee shops such as Starbucks coffee, Komeda coffee and local famous Lucky Pierrot.
    • ●12:20 Mt.Hakodate ropeway
    • Magnificent view from the top of the mountain.
    • You can see even Honshu island beyond the Tsugaru strait which is the international strait.
    • In the summit building, there are a souvenir shop, a snack stand, a restaurant and a cafe-bar.
    • ●13:40 Goryokaku fort
    • From a 90 meter high tower, you can witness the whole view of the Goryokaku fortress where the last civil war was fought between shogunate force and new government force.
    • Lunch can be enjoyed near or in the Goryokaku facility.
    • There are fancy Japanese food restaurant, curry restaurant in the tower building.
    • Nereby, there are Soba and tempra restaurant, local famous ramen restaurant, Sushi restaurant and very popular humberger shop named Lucky Pierrot.
    • ●16:00　Ending Point:Hakodate cruise terminal
    • Note:
    • Mt.Hakodate ropeway can be stopped due to the strong wind.
    • In that case, I recommend another spot.
    • This tour can be enjoyed by taxi.

    What Is a Private Cruise-Port Day Tour of Hakodate Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from North America, arriving in Hakodate aboard a cruise ship. It was the first visit to Japan for all of them. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guided the group from the Hakodate Morning Market adjacent to Wakamatsu-cho Wharf, then to Mount Hakodate, the Motomachi church district, and the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse area. The guests loved Japanese food and said they had never eaten salmon and tuna rice bowls this delicious and fresh before. They enjoyed photographing king crab, snow crab, hairy crab, giant octopus, scallops, and shrimp. The guests were deeply moved by the view from Mount Hakodate, where the cruise ship looked as small as a little fishing boat. They purchased many personalized chopsticks. When shown photographs of Hirosaki Castle and its cherry blossoms that I had brought along, they said they would love to visit next time.

    Click here for more details: Hakodate Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with 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.

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    June, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 13:00 Meet at the JR Himeji Station Central Ticket Gate, then walk to Himeji Castle
    • 2. 13:45 Himeji Castle tour begins
    • 3. 15:50 Smoking break at the smoking area in Himeji Castle Sannomaru Square
    • 4. 16:20 Koko-en Garden tour begins
    • 5. 16:50 Head to JR Himeji Station
    • 6. 17: Disband at JR Himeji Station
    • 7.. 17:10 End and disband in front of Koko-en Garden

    What Is a Private Half-Day Himeji Castle and Kokoen Garden Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report 13:00 Meet at the central ticket gate of JR Himeji Station 13:45 Himeji Castle tour 15:50 Smoking break at the smoking area in the Sannomaru Plaza of Himeji Castle 16:20 Kokoen Garden tour 16:50 Head to JR Himeji Station 17:10 Disband at JR Himeji Station The Shinkansen arrived on schedule, and we met almost as planned at the central ticket gate of JR Himeji Station, then walked along Miyuki-dori toward Himeji Castle. The guests seemed genuinely interested in both the defensive features and the structure of Himeji Castle. They were impressed by the joinery of the West Great Pillar, remarking that it was remarkable craftsmanship. They also seemed to enjoy Kokoen Garden. What surprised me was that most of the guests were smokers, so after finishing at Himeji Castle we took a smoking break at the smoking area in the Sannomaru Plaza. The buffer zone from JR Himeji Station to the area around Himeji Castle is designated as a no-smoking district under a Himeji City ordinance. If caught by a patrol officer, one is subject to an immediate fine. The only place where smoking is permitted is the single smoking area in the Sannomaru Plaza. Everywhere else—the rest of the Sannomaru Plaza, the former Shirotopia Park, and the area around Himeyama Park—smoking is entirely prohibited, and even electronic cigarettes are hard to distinguish, so they are banned as well. Incidentally, there is also a smoking room next to the basement restroom of Piole Building No. 1, adjacent to the north side of the station building, but it appears to be quite small. As far as I know, these are about the only options.

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

    Tour Report by Hiro

    I am Hiromi Mizoi, call me Hiro. I mainly have Himeji tours because I live in Himeji. I got my National Guide Certificate in 2017. I started to guide tourists as a volunteer guide in 2004. I had been a volunteer guide for a long time. However, I could not have any tours from April in 2020 to November in 2022 due to the Covid-19 Pandemic. Now, many tourists have come back to Japan. So, I am very excited. I would like to share not only the beauty of Himeji Castle’s Main Tower Complex but also the tricky defense systems of the entire Castle Grounds, which many visitors do not realize, with you. I was born and grew up very close to the west side of the moats of the Castle. So, I love Himeji Castle. I like other tourists’ favorite sightseeing spots such as Kokoen Garden and Engyoji Temple in Mt. Shosya. As one of Himeji locals, I am greatly happy to share the local people’s favorite spots with you. I look forward to your tours.

    Request Booking

    May 31, 2026
    Ash N
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Guided tour recommended for maximum enjoyment at Himeji Castle.
    Wonderful, informative…

    May 25, 2026
    IrinaVadim
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Himeji Castle and Kokoen park
    Hiromi Misoi is a very knowledgeable and…

    Mar 28, 2025
    esperanzarZ60BH
    Great experience
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Had a great time. Hiro was fantastic. She provided so…

    Feb 16, 2025
    hayleigho412
    Himeji Castle
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an excellent day with our guide, Hiromi Mizoi…