Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace & Meiji Shrine

    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

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:55 Meet up @ Hotel Toranomon Hills
    • 09:30 Imperial Palace
    • 10:45 Sensoji Temple
    • 12:40 Meiji Shrine
    • 14:10 Shibuya Scramble Crossing・Hachiko
    • 14:30 Shibuya Mark City (Tokyu Food Show)
    • 15:00 Disband @ Shibuya

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting from North America, and it was their first time in Japan. Before coming to Tokyo, they had already visited Kyoto, Kanazawa, and Takayama, and they planned to return home the next day. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with great interest to historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo shogunate. At Senso-ji Temple, they were intrigued by explanations about the difference between temples and shrines, as well as the Kaminarimon Gate. At Meiji Shrine, they seemed impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere. In Shibuya, they showed interest in the lively scene at the scramble crossing. At Shibuya Mark City, they purchased Japanese whisky as a souvenir. Since they had a reservation for Shibuya Sky after the tour, we parted ways in Shibuya. I responded to the guests' requests as they wished, so I believe they were satisfied. Also, since they had eaten a large breakfast at the hotel and were not yet hungry, we did not have lunch.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayToranomon Hills~Nijubashimae180JPY
    Section 2SubwayYurakucho~Ginza-itchome180JPY
    Section 3SubwayGinza~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa~Meiji-jingumae260JPY
    Section 5TrainHarajuku~Shibuya160JPY
    Total990JPY

    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

    Jul 10, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Beautiful Tour of Kamakura
    Seizo Kamiuto was out…

    Jun 9, 2026
    stacy_grana
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with an experienced guide
    Our guide, Seizo, was amazing.…

    Jun 6, 2026
    U9351HJjakes
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Seizo Kamiuto was great and super knowledgeable. He had a…

    May 20, 2026
    HugoJ670
    Tripadvisor review: Edo Tokyo & Japanese Culture Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Tokio in de zon
    Seizo Kaminto is een uitstekende…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Sightseeing at Shinkyo & Sightseeing at Toshogu

    Tochigi in One Day: Sightseeing at Shinkyo & Sightseeing at Toshogu

    I am a licensed guide based in the Nikko area of Tochigi Prefecture, with a passion for sharing the depth and beauty of this remarkable region.
    In particular, I take great pride in introducing the magnificent World Heritage area, home to Toshogu Shrine, Futarasan Shrine, Rinnoji Temple, and the iconic Shinkyo Bridge. The rich history, spiritual atmosphere, and masterful craftsmanship found there are truly inspiring.
    But Nikko has much more to offer beyond the World Heritage zone. The region is uniquely spread across three different elevation zones: the central town area, the Lake Chuzenji area at higher altitude, and the remote Yumoto Onsen area in the mountains. Each of these areas offers a different charm—from historic sites and sacred spaces to scenic lakes, waterfalls, and hot springs.
    However, due to the area’s wide geography, limited public transit options, and seasonal congestion, even navigating efficiently within a single area can be challenging without local knowledge.
    That’s why local expertise is essential. With in-depth knowledge of Nikko’s layout, transportation network, and crowd patterns, I help my guests make the most of their time, while focusing on the area that suits their interests best.
    I don’t just recite what’s written in guidebooks—I offer deeper insights rooted in Japanese history, religion, and culture. From the legacy of Tokugawa Ieyasu to the spiritual symbolism behind shrine architecture, I aim to provide meaningful and memorable experiences.
    If you’re looking to discover the real Nikko, from its iconic landmarks to hidden gems, I’d be honored to guide you.

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00     Meet the guests at Tobu Nikko Station
    • Travel to Shinkyo by bus
    • 09:20~09:30 Sightseeing at Shinkyo
    • 09:40~11:40 Sightseeing at Toshogu Shrine
    • 11:40~12:00 Sightseeing at Rinnoji Temple (Sanbutsudo)
    • 12:15~13:15 Lunch
    • Travel from Shinkyo to Tamozawa Imperial Villa by bus
    • 13:45~14:25 Sightseeing at Tamozawa Imperial Villa
    • Travel from Tamozawa Imperial Villa to Tobu Nikko Station
    • 15:00    Disband at Tobu Nikko Station

    Title: What's a Private Day Trip to Nikko Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the World Heritage Area The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. Since they wished to focus their sightseeing on the World Heritage area, I guided them through Shinkyo Bridge, Toshogu Shrine, and Rinnoji Temple. They had also expressed an interest in history, culture, and Japanese gardens, and thinking they might tire of visiting only shrines and temples, in the afternoon I guided them to the Tamozawa Imperial Villa. It was memorable to see how much they enjoyed the distinctive atmosphere and the majestic architecture of the World Heritage area. They were also delighted with the lunch I had reserved at a restaurant blending Japanese and Western styles, which sits within the forest at the entrance to the World Heritage area, giving it a truly unique atmosphere. At the Tamozawa Imperial Villa in the afternoon, I explained that visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese architecture from three different eras all in one place, which I believe was very well received. I feel they were able to fully appreciate the charm of Nikko, which has an atmosphere completely different from that of Tokyo. I am sure it became an unforgettable day for the guests.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTobu Nikko Station~Shinkyo600JPY
    Section 2Free PassShinkyo~Tamozawa Imperial Villa0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTamozawa Imperial Villa~Tobu Nikko Station0JPY
    Total600JPY

    I am a licensed guide based in the Nikko area of Tochigi Prefecture, with a passion for sharing the depth and beauty of this remarkable region.
    In particular, I take great pride in introducing the magnificent World Heritage area, home to Toshogu Shrine, Futarasan Shrine, Rinnoji Temple, and the iconic Shinkyo Bridge. The rich history, spiritual atmosphere, and masterful craftsmanship found there are truly inspiring.
    But Nikko has much more to offer beyond the World Heritage zone. The region is uniquely spread across three different elevation zones: the central town area, the Lake Chuzenji area at higher altitude, and the remote Yumoto Onsen area in the mountains. Each of these areas offers a different charm—from historic sites and sacred spaces to scenic lakes, waterfalls, and hot springs.
    However, due to the area’s wide geography, limited public transit options, and seasonal congestion, even navigating efficiently within a single area can be challenging without local knowledge.
    That’s why local expertise is essential. With in-depth knowledge of Nikko’s layout, transportation network, and crowd patterns, I help my guests make the most of their time, while focusing on the area that suits their interests best.
    I don’t just recite what’s written in guidebooks—I offer deeper insights rooted in Japanese history, religion, and culture. From the legacy of Tokugawa Ieyasu to the spiritual symbolism behind shrine architecture, I aim to provide meaningful and memorable experiences.
    If you’re looking to discover the real Nikko, from its iconic landmarks to hidden gems, I’d be honored to guide you.

    Jul 27, 2026
    Onno_P2000
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Very interesting and joyful day trip with Taka
    We…

    Jun 30, 2026
    Rolando_A
    Viator review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A fantastic day!
    We had an amazing day. Our guide was Taka.…

    Jun 25, 2026
    N8851CTrebeccaf
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We cannot recommend Taka highly…

    Jun 21, 2026
    kevin L
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing personal tour where you get to choose or have a…

  • Tokyo: Explore Tsukiji & Hotel → Disband

    Tokyo: Explore Tsukiji & Hotel → Disband

    Hello! I’m Ryosuke—please call me Leo.
    I’d love to help you create great memories in Japan, especially around Tokyo and my hometown, Hiroshima.

    I once traveled 44,000 km by bicycle across four continents (every continent except Australia!). There’s a chance I might even have passed through your hometown. Through that journey, I learned not only how wonderful travel can be, but also the things travelers should watch out for.

    With that experience, I’m sure I can help make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
    Let’s have a great time exploring Japan together!

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet @ Hotel
    • 11:30 Explore Tsukiji
    • 13:00 Lunch @ Tsukiji Sushi Dai
    • 14:00 Explore Asakusa
    • 15:30 Shibuya Crossing
    • 16:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 17:00 Arrive at Hotel → Disband

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour with a Licensed Guide Like? A Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, and Meiji Shrine The guests were a group visiting from North America. Because their expectations for sushi and seafood had been very high from the pre-tour planning stage, we spent plenty of time enjoying a food-tasting walk around Tsukiji. In addition to sampling street food, they had requested a good restaurant, so with their agreement we canceled the visit to Tokyo Tower and they were able to enjoy a leisurely lunch. They also had a strong interest in Buddhism, Shinto, and the Japanese sense of religion, and I received many questions at Asakusa and Meiji Shrine. They seemed tired from a full schedule of sightseeing on the previous days, but I believe it turned out to be a relaxing tour.

    Hello! I’m Ryosuke—please call me Leo.
    I’d love to help you create great memories in Japan, especially around Tokyo and my hometown, Hiroshima.

    I once traveled 44,000 km by bicycle across four continents (every continent except Australia!). There’s a chance I might even have passed through your hometown. Through that journey, I learned not only how wonderful travel can be, but also the things travelers should watch out for.

    With that experience, I’m sure I can help make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
    Let’s have a great time exploring Japan together!

    Jul 30, 2026
    BrianBurnette
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great Memories
    We really enjoyed this tour. Leo, our…

    Jul 24, 2026
    893cydneyh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Best Tour Guide
    We had an incredible 6-hour tour…

    May 25, 2026
    llindgren0604
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A seamless experience
    Leo was a great tour guide. We got…

    May 21, 2026
    lyndapI1304ZZ
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking guide in Hakone
    Unfortunately the weather restricted some of our…

  • Tokyo: Guests' Hotel & Imperial Palace

    Tokyo: Guests’ Hotel & Imperial Palace

    Hello, welcome to Japan you all.

    I’m a resident of Ebina, Kanagawa, and am a national government licensed guide and interpreter.
    I enjoy showing travelers both the new and old of central Honshu, primarily Tokyo and Kanagawa, ranging from Meiji Shrine, Edo Castle, Tsukiji Outer Market, Ueno, Asakusa, Ginza, Ginza Sky Farmstead, Shibuya Zebra Crossings, Yokohama, Kamakura, to Hakone, not to mention Mt. Fuji, and sharing views with my guests on Japanese homes and their surroundings, Japan’s labor productivity and labor market, among others.

    I also enjoy introducing travelers to Japanese culture through home visits with Japanese families, touring Zen temples, and explaining the intricacies of Japanese culture.

    I am happy to arrange personalized tours to other places of your interest.
    I am making the most of my long experience as a foreign language education service, escorting VIPs at the Sony showroom in Ginza, Tokyo.
    I also offer services to help families and individuals relocating to Japan with immigration VISA applications.

    My hobbies are movies, strolling along the river in my neighborhood and am a novice at la lingua Italiano.
    Let’s enjoy touring together, shall we?

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Guests' Hotel
    • 10:00 Meiji Shrine
    • Yoyogi Park, Shibuya Crossing, Omokado & Harakado, Gaien-mae, U.S. Embassy Tokyo,
    • 11:25 Imperial Palace
    • 12:30 Asakusa Sensoji Temple and Shrine
    • 14:00 Tsukiji, Ginza Kyukyo-do, Yurakucho, National Diet Building, Chidorigafuchi, Kabuki-cho, Golden-gai
    • 15:20 Back to the Guests' Hotel

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest visited Japan with a strong interest in learning about the history of the country. Throughout the day, the guest shared many comparisons between Japan and their home region in North America, which made for a lively and thoughtful conversation. Here are some of the memorable remarks and exchanges from the tour: 1) "I'm here to learn the history of Japan." 2) "I'm not hungry, it's too hot. Let's skip lunch." 3) "We observe traffic lights, or you may get hit back home. We don't bother when we see no cars coming." 4) "We have bamboo shoots too back home, but we don't eat them." 5) "We have crape myrtle too back home." 6) "Do we go to Shinjuku to take a bullet train to Kyoto?" 7) "The three people following the group in uniform are plain clothes detectives. The U.S. embassy in Tokyo is the most heavily protected." 8) "Is this the Capitol Hill area? You can't feed squirrels at Capitol Hill. Oh, you can't feed pigeons in Japan either. Oh, bears are attacking humans — humans cut down nut-bearing trees, resulting in no food for the bears?" 9) "No one wears helmets." 10) "It depends on where you live. Back home, the minimum hourly wage is 20 dollars. Scams — we have the same problem." 11) "What do those five stories symbolize? Do you have those in shrines too?" 12) "I want to buy a whole set of knives with the maker's name inscribed and ship them. I'll pay the tariff." 13) "Women account for less than 20% of the legislators back home — it's the same here." 14) "I buy magnets. I've been to 48 countries, and I'm going to reach 50 countries by a special milestone." Note: Due to the heat, we did not stop for lunch. I also provided guidance, including useful websites, on how the guest could spend their time while staying in Tokyo.

    Hello, welcome to Japan you all.

    I’m a resident of Ebina, Kanagawa, and am a national government licensed guide and interpreter.
    I enjoy showing travelers both the new and old of central Honshu, primarily Tokyo and Kanagawa, ranging from Meiji Shrine, Edo Castle, Tsukiji Outer Market, Ueno, Asakusa, Ginza, Ginza Sky Farmstead, Shibuya Zebra Crossings, Yokohama, Kamakura, to Hakone, not to mention Mt. Fuji, and sharing views with my guests on Japanese homes and their surroundings, Japan’s labor productivity and labor market, among others.

    I also enjoy introducing travelers to Japanese culture through home visits with Japanese families, touring Zen temples, and explaining the intricacies of Japanese culture.

    I am happy to arrange personalized tours to other places of your interest.
    I am making the most of my long experience as a foreign language education service, escorting VIPs at the Sony showroom in Ginza, Tokyo.
    I also offer services to help families and individuals relocating to Japan with immigration VISA applications.

    My hobbies are movies, strolling along the river in my neighborhood and am a novice at la lingua Italiano.
    Let’s enjoy touring together, shall we?

    Jul 16, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Private guide – a very good experience
    We spent a half…

    Jun 21, 2026
    CJW324
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Guided Tour & Tablet Guided Origami Experience
    Unforgettable day in Tokyo with Hideaki — incredible with…

    May 20, 2026
    olgalA154QQ
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience with an excellent guide
    Great experience! Our guide WADA Hideaki…

    Apr 19, 2026
    Sightseer57474900023
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hideaki’s perfect first day in Tokyo!
    Hideaki was an incredible guide and…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle visit & Move (taxi: Kinkakuji → Gion)

    Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle visit & Move (taxi: Kinkakuji → Gion)

    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 !

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel Meet
    • 10:00-10:15 Move (on foot; Hotel → Nijo Castle)
    • 10:15-11:25 Nijo Castle visit
    • 11:25-11:45 Move (city bus; Nijojo-mae → Kinkakuji-michi)
    • 11:45-12:30 Kinkakuji visit
    • 12:40–13:10 Smoothie Break (@Coco Hana)
    • 13:10-13:40 Move (taxi: Kinkakuji → Gion)
    • 13:40-14:10 Gion walk (Hanamikoji, Gion Shirakawa)
    • 14:10 Tour ends. We parted with the guests at Gion Hanamikoji.

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji, and Gion Body: The guests were visitors from North America. It was their first time in Kyoto. I took them to Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji, and Gion. Originally, I had planned to also take them to Ryoan-ji after visiting Kinkaku-ji, but we ended up skipping Ryoan-ji, as they had already visited many temples and shrines earlier in their trip and requested to finish the tour a little early. During a smoothie break at a restaurant, I gave them an explanation about Ryoan-ji instead. In the heat of the day (35°C), we took a taxi to Gion. The 6-hour tour effectively became a 4-hour tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusNijojo-mae~Kinkakuji-michi/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total230JPY

    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 !

    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.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Beth_D
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Tour and Guide
    Michi was an excellent tour guide! He…

  • Hokkaido in One Day: Odori Park & Hokkaido Shrine

    Hokkaido in One Day: Odori Park & Hokkaido Shrine

    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.

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:05 Meet at the hotel
    • 9:25 Former Hokkaido Government Office
    • 10:30 Odori Park
    • 10:50 Nijo Market
    • 11:10 Tanukikoji
    • 12:00 Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium
    • 13;25 Lunch @ Maruyama Class
    • 14:00 Hokkaido Shrine
    • 15:30 Tour ends @ Sapporo Hotel by Granbell

    Title: What Is a Private Sapporo Walking Tour Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report The tour was originally planned for a larger party, but as some of the guests were not feeling well, it became a tour for a smaller group. The guests were well aware that many regions of Japan can be very hot, so they chose Hokkaido for a more comfortable trip. Before arriving in Sapporo, they had visited another destination in Asia, where it had also been very hot, so they were delighted by the comfortable climate of Sapporo, which reached a high of 25°C that day. As they mentioned they were thinking of visiting Otaru the next day, I provided sightseeing information about Otaru. Before returning to the Hotel at the end, we checked the ticket gates and other details at JR Sapporo Station.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOdori~Maruyama Koen210JPY
    Section 2SubwayMaruyama Koen~Odori210JPY
    Total420JPY

    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.

    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…

    Sep 2, 2025
    roxannerW1499FK
    Great experience!
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful city tour with Tom in…

  • Osaka Instagram Spots Customized Tour

    Osaka Instagram Spots Customized Tour

    Hi, everyone! I’m Norifumi Kamon, a government registered guide interpreter. Please call me “Nori”, or “Kamon-san”.
    Let me introdece myself. I was born on April 17th in 1952 in Miyazaki prefecture in Kyushu island. I used to be an English teacher of Osaka Prefectural high school. When I retired from a teacher ten years ago, I decided to get a professional guide license. I wanted to play a role of the bridge between Japanese people and the people from all over the world as a second life of mine. After two years efforts, I finally got the guide license. Since then, I have guided several handreds of foreign people mainly in Kyoto and Nara for about five years except Corona Pandemic period. Almost all the tourists were deeply impressed by the beauty of nature, traditoin, culture, and art of Japan. I can surely help you enjoy and be satisfied with the sightseeing in Japan. And I’m looking forward to seeing you soon.

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting point: Cruise Ship Terminal
    • 10:15 Transfer by taxi to Osaka Castle
    • 10:35 Sightseeing ① Tour of Osaka Castle Main Tower and Japanese Garden
    • 12:00 While transferring by subway to Dotonbori, the guest realized they had left their smartphone at the boarding station and returned to the boarding station
    • 12:30 With the help of the station staff, the smartphone was safely found and returned to the guest
    • 12:40 Transfer by subway to Dotonbori
    • 13:00 Sightseeing ② Strolling and touring Dotonbori, lunch and break at the crab restaurant "Kani Doraku"
    • 14:30 Sightseeing ③ Strolling and touring Shinsaibashi-suji
    • (Due to time lost from the lost and found smartphone, the planned Kuromon Market was canceled)
    • 14:50 Transfer by subway to Shitennoji Temple
    • 15:15 Sightseeing ④ Tour of Shitennoji Temple
    • 16:00 End of guided tour, dismissal
    • (Originally planned to see the guest off to the Cruise Terminal, but due to running out of time, the tour ended at Shitennoji Temple)

    Title: What Can You See on a 6-Hour Private Osaka Tour from a Cruise Port? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests this time were visitors from North America who were sightseeing while traveling by cruise ship. Prior communication about which places to visit was exchanged with one of the guests. A reply came two days after my first message, listing about six desired destinations centered on Osaka Castle and the Minami area. However, since this was a 6-hour course, I consulted with the guests and we decided to omit Shinsekai, settling on five locations: Osaka Castle → Dotonbori → Shinsaibashi-suji and Doguyasuji → Kuromon Market → Shitennoji Temple. On the day of the tour, we met at the exit of the cruise ship terminal, confirmed the destinations and the means of transportation, and set off. First, we traveled to Osaka Castle by taxi, and along the way to the main tower I explained the history of Osaka Castle. At the tower, we first made a full round of the top observation floor, where I explained in detail the geographical features, history, and industries of Osaka. After that, we carefully toured the museum from the 7th floor down to the 2nd floor. The guests were both very interested in Japan's samurai era, listening attentively to the explanations and viewing the exhibits with great interest. After Osaka Castle, we moved to the next destination, Dotonbori, by subway with a transfer, but an incident occurred here. While on the subway, one of the guests realized that a smartphone had been left behind somewhere. Based on my past experience, I judged that the only option was to retrace the route accurately and search carefully, so I got off partway with the guests, returned to the station where we had boarded, and started by asking the station staff whether anything had been turned in. Fortunately, it seemed that a kind person had turned it in as a lost item at the station gate, so it was found immediately and returned safely to the guest. The guest was truly overjoyed and repeated words of gratitude many times. We decided to consider how to handle the roughly 50 minutes lost during this time while having lunch in Dotonbori. At the next stop, Dotonbori, I explained the everyday food culture and temperament of the people of Osaka. After making a round, I had the guests choose a restaurant and we had lunch. Since one of the guests liked crab, we enjoyed a relaxed lunch at a crab restaurant. After lunch, we discussed how to handle the delay of about one hour, and in the end we skipped Kuromon Market and instead did a stroll in Shinsaibashi → a visit to Shitennoji Temple. At Shitennoji, I was able to explain thoroughly about the introduction of Buddhism to Japan and its teachings. The guests both listened with great interest. We were also able to hear a monk chanting sutras at just the right timing, which the guests found very satisfying.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Sakaisuji-Hommachi190JPY
    Section 2SubwaySakaisuji-Hommachi~Tanimachi 4-chome190JPY
    Section 3SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Nippombashi (Osaka)190JPY
    Section 4SubwayNippombashi (Osaka)~Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Total760JPY

    Hi, everyone! I’m Norifumi Kamon, a government registered guide interpreter. Please call me “Nori”, or “Kamon-san”.
    Let me introdece myself. I was born on April 17th in 1952 in Miyazaki prefecture in Kyushu island. I used to be an English teacher of Osaka Prefectural high school. When I retired from a teacher ten years ago, I decided to get a professional guide license. I wanted to play a role of the bridge between Japanese people and the people from all over the world as a second life of mine. After two years efforts, I finally got the guide license. Since then, I have guided several handreds of foreign people mainly in Kyoto and Nara for about five years except Corona Pandemic period. Almost all the tourists were deeply impressed by the beauty of nature, traditoin, culture, and art of Japan. I can surely help you enjoy and be satisfied with the sightseeing in Japan. And I’m looking forward to seeing you soon.

    Apr 9, 2026
    Ron_W
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    We saw so much in the…
    We saw so much in the…

    Mar 24, 2026
    zackn719
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    Knowledgeable guide and a great tour
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    Oct 20, 2025
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    Highlights of Kyoto.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience with Nori. Nori exceeded our expectations with…

    Oct 16, 2025
    Michael_H
    Thoroughly enjoyed the…
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  • Sendai & Matsushima Customized Tour in 1 Day

    Sendai & Matsushima Customized Tour in 1 Day

    For all the guest who may have an interest on my career, This is Sanichi,a government certified guide interpreter, inaugurated my guide interpreter business career since 2023. My guide interpreter work include all aspect of business scene ranging from simultaneous interpretation at convent visitor, Tsunami-torn area guide tour,Municipal government supported exchange student welcome party official interpretation, International cruise ship on shore excursion guide, and so on, and keep doing business by fair and fast manner with reasonable cost without any prejudice against client’s objectives, race or gender.
    I can attend anyone, anywhere, anytime upon request! I’m confident that I’m a shoulder you may count on here in Japan!

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 09:28 Depart from Aoba-dori Station to Matsushima Kaigan
    • 10:10 After arriving at Matsushima Kaigan Station, walk around the city to the tour boat pier
    • 10:30 Board the Matsushima Bay tour boat
    • 11:20 After disembarking, visit and stroll through Godaido, Zuiganji Temple & Hobutsuden, and Entsuin
    • 13:20 Lunch of seafood rice bowl at the Fish Market
    • 14:10 Sake tasting and souvenir shopping at Mutoya Liquor Store
    • 14:20 Board the train bound for Sendai from Matsushima Kaigan Station
    • 15:00 End and disperse at Aoba-dori Station

    **Title:** What Is a Private Matsushima Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report **Body:** Surrounded by guests who all had a rich sensibility, the conversation flowed easily on the train during our travels. One member of the group, who is fond of Japan, asked about the difference between the honorifics "chan" and "san," so I briefly explained the subtle sense of relative standing based on one's own position. As for food, they mentioned that not only Blue-fin tuna but also Yellow-fin tuna is popular in Europe, and shared the interesting aside that some people there enjoy the large eyes of fish. On the sightseeing boat, we enjoyed the refreshing sea breeze, and at Entsuin Temple, the group was moved by the combination of the soft green light and the magnificent carpet of moss spreading out at our feet.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainAoba-dori~Matsushima Kaigan440JPY
    Section 2TrainMatsushima Kaigan~Aoba-dori440JPY
    Total880JPY

    For all the guest who may have an interest on my career, This is Sanichi,a government certified guide interpreter, inaugurated my guide interpreter business career since 2023. My guide interpreter work include all aspect of business scene ranging from simultaneous interpretation at convent visitor, Tsunami-torn area guide tour,Municipal government supported exchange student welcome party official interpretation, International cruise ship on shore excursion guide, and so on, and keep doing business by fair and fast manner with reasonable cost without any prejudice against client’s objectives, race or gender.
    I can attend anyone, anywhere, anytime upon request! I’m confident that I’m a shoulder you may count on here in Japan!

    Apr 3, 2026
    V2097LInickd
    Tripadvisor review: Sendai / Matsushima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    15,000 Steps thru Sendai History
    Sanichi is a very help…

    Jul 14, 2025
    carlanS8210WG
    Merveilleux !
    Tripadvisor review: Yamagata / Yamadera 6hr Private Trip with Licensed Guide
    La visite du château de Kaminoyama était très…

    Nov 23, 2024
    ym360
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    Tripadvisor review: Yamagata / Yamadera 6hr Private Trip with Licensed Guide
    Our guided tour with Sanichi was…

    Oct 11, 2024
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    The tour organizers where…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Umeda Sky Building

    Osaka in Half a Day: Umeda Sky Building

    Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Meet at Shin-Osaka Station
    • 12:25 Lunch at Sushiro Ohatsu Tenjindori Store
    • 13:45 Umeda Sky Building
    • 14:50 Dotonbori – Hozenji Yokocho – Shinsaibashisuji Shopping Street
    • 16:00 Disband at Shinsaibashisuji Shopping Street

    Today's guests were a group of three visiting from Europe. They had already visited Tokyo, Takayama, Hiroshima, Kyoto, and Himeji, and let me know that they had seen many castles, so instead of the planned Osaka Castle we went to the Umeda Sky Building. It was not very crowded, and they enjoyed it. They were also pleased with the sushi restaurant we had for lunch. Afterward, we went to Dotonbori, Hozenji Yokocho, and the Shinsaibashi shopping arcade. I believe they enjoyed the unique atmosphere of the Minami area. In the shopping arcade they did some shopping at a sports-related store, which I think they enjoyed.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShin-Osaka~Umeda (Subway)240JPY
    Section 2SubwayUmeda (Subway)~Namba (Subway)240JPY
    Total480JPY

    Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

    Jul 25, 2026
    135ulrikh
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    We spent half a day…

    Jul 24, 2026
    J6711TVnancyb
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    Kaeko Tanigawa was fantastic at helping us create…

    Jul 13, 2026
    elizabethtW414DU
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    Jul 12, 2026
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  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

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

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:20 Meet at hotel 8:45 Nijo Castle 10:10 Kiyomizu-dera Temple 11:20 Lunch (Japanese cuisine near Kiyomizu-dera) 12:00 Higashiyama area 13:10 Fushimi Inari 14:10 Arrive at hotel, tour ends

    The guests visited Japan for the first time, coming from Asia. Originally they were from North America and Europe respectively, and they met in Europe. One of them had already retired. This was their first time on an assignment in Asia; previously they had been based mainly in South America, with the current location being their eighth. Both were enthusiastically taking photos, but they did not ask many questions. They also did not do any shopping at all, so we were able to move through the itinerary quickly. The tour started about 10 minutes early and ended about 20 minutes early. The photo was taken at Nijo Castle.

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

    Jul 24, 2026
    Trail65429092687
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    Kazua Sumi is a very accomplished guide.He has deep…

    Jul 23, 2026
    489caelinp
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    My friend and I had a great experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    margaretsM7923ON
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    Great way to see Kyoto
    Wonderful tour and exceptional guide.

    Jul 9, 2026
    Sandra_B
    Kazuo was great and…
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