Category: Uncategorized

  • Hiroshima: Taxi to Shukkeien Garden & Peace Memorial Park monuments

    Hiroshima: Taxi to Shukkeien Garden & Peace Memorial Park monuments

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Hotel pickup
    • 13:00-13:20 Taxi to Shukkeien Garden
    • 13:20-14:20 Shukkeien Garden
    • 14:20-14:40 Taxi to Peace Memorial Park
    • 14:40-15:40 Visit Peace Memorial Park monuments
    • 15:50-16:30 Peace Memorial Park Rest House (as a measure against bad weather)
    • 16:30-17:00 Drop off at hotel

    Title: What Is a Private Hiroshima Walking Tour Like on a Rainy Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. Although they had visited various parts of Asia many times for work, this was their first stay in Japan, and they were deeply impressed by the culture supported by its long history. On this day, heavy rain was forecast for the latter half of the tour, so I planned to visit Shukkeien Garden early and, in case of bad weather, head to a museum or another less crowded indoor facility. As expected, the museum was extremely crowded due to the heavy rain and the Golden Week holiday crowds, so we skipped it and instead spent time at an indoor facility where I gave explanations related to the museum's contents.

    Welcome to Hiroshima.
    My name is Hiroshi Tsuji, a licensed guide based in Hiroshima and Miyajima. My family has been connected to Miyajima for more than 300 years, and I am pleased to share the history, culture, and daily life of this unique island with visitors from around the world. Please feel free to call me Hiroshi.
    With a background in outdoor sports—including rock climbing, scuba diving, and long-distance triathlons—I have completed several Ironman races abroad. I studied in Kyoto and later worked in management at a publicly listed company, which allowed me to live in many different regions of Japan and develop a deeper understanding of the country’s diverse culture and history.
    In Hiroshima, I guide guests through the Peace Memorial Park, including the Atomic Bomb Dome, and share perspectives on the history of Hiroshima and modern Japan.
    In Miyajima, I introduce Itsukushima Shrine, Mount Misen, the island’s beautiful scenery, and its local cuisine. As someone whose family has been connected to Miyajima for generations, I also enjoy sharing local insights and experiences that offer a more personal connection to the island’s culture and way of life.
    I look forward to welcoming you to Hiroshima and Miyajima.
    Hiroshi

    Jul 31, 2026
    Helene R
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Experienced guide Hiroshi
    Hiroshi was a great experienced…

    Jul 26, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Miyajima Half-Day customized tour with licensed local guide (Hiroshi)
    We went…

    Jul 17, 2026
    oswaldom406
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour, Fantastic guide!
    We had an absolutely wonderful…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Jennifer L
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Perfect day in Miyajima and Hiroshima
    Hiroshi is…

  • Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Meet at Sheraton Grand Hiroshima lobby
    • JR Hiroshima 7:40→Miyajimaguchi 8:07
    • JR Ferry Miyajimaguchi Port 8:25→Miyajima Port 8:35
    • At Miyajima: Itsukushima Shrine→Daiganji Temple→Daishoin Temple→Lunch at Restaurant Ruruju
    • JR Ferry Miyajima Port 12:15→Miyajimaguchi Port 12:25
    • JR Miyajimaguchi 12:47→Hiroshima 13:14
    • JR Bus Hiroshima Station→Atomic Bomb Dome
    • At Peace Park: Hypocenter→Mobilized Students Memorial→Atomic Bomb Dome→Children's Peace Monument→Cenotaph→Peace Memorial Museum
    • JR Bus Atomic Bomb Dome→Hiroshima Station
    • Disband at Sheraton Grand Hiroshima lobby

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Miyajima and Hiroshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, on their second trip to Japan. On a previous visit, their cruise ship had been unable to stop in Hiroshima due to weather, so this was their first time visiting the area. They had arrived in Hiroshima the day before by international flight and shinkansen, and on the day of the tour they had a demanding schedule, returning from Hiroshima to Tokyo that evening. A few days later, they were set to depart by cruise ship toward North America. Although it was unfortunately raining, the guests were delighted by the mist-shrouded primeval forest of Miyajima and the sight of Itsukushima Shrine seeming to float on the sea. At Daishoin Temple, which I suggested and we visited, they enjoyed the various Buddhist statues characteristic of esoteric Buddhism and the pilgrimage of the thirty-three Kannon in the basement of the Kannon Hall. In Hiroshima, due to the rain and their fatigue, we cut the planned visit to Hiroshima Castle, and at the Peace Park they took photos rather quietly, though this is much the same as with other guests. For lunch, they happily enjoyed a fried oyster set meal and a fried chicken set meal.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2FerryMiyajimaguchi Port~Miyajima Port300JPY
    Section 3FerryMiyajima Port~Miyajimaguchi Port200JPY
    Section 4TrainMiyajimaguchi~Hiroshima420JPY
    Section 5BusHiroshima Station/JR Bus Chugoku~Atomic Bomb Dome/JR Bus Chugoku240JPY
    Section 6BusAtomic Bomb Dome/JR Bus Chugoku~Hiroshima Station/JR Bus Chugoku240JPY
    Total1,820JPY

    Hello, my name is Soshi Ebisuda. My first name is Soshi but my nickname may be easier to remember, so please call me Sebastian!

    My guiding as a government-licensed interpreter in English is specialized in the areas of Tokyo (where I live now) and Hiroshima (my hometown). Professionally I have a long track record in the finance industry, working for a multinational company, and therefore am quite experienced to host international visitors. My areas of interest include Japanese and western history, travel (especially by railroads), and mountains. I also have a trekking guide license of Japan Mountain Guides Association, so will be happy to guide you to beautiful mountains from spring to autumn.

    I look forward to seeing you in Japan!

    May 6, 2026
    Dan_S
    Daily Day in Hiroshima
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful day…

    Oct 18, 2024
    Mark_N
    Hiroshima – Fantastic one day.
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    This was an amazing…

    Jun 28, 2024
    W491UCangelak
    Knowledgeable and personable
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Soshi, our private tour guide, (who…

  • Kanagawa in One Day: JR Kamakura Station & Hasedera Temple

    Kanagawa in One Day: JR Kamakura Station & Hasedera Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:50 Meet @ Hotel
    • 10:00 JR Kamakura Station
    • 10:15 Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
    • 10:50 Komachi-dori Street
    • 11:20 Lunch @ Hachimoto Komachi-dori Branch (soba restaurant)
    • 12:30 Hasedera Temple
    • 13:10 Kotoku-in (Great Buddha of Kamakura)
    • 14:00 JR Kamakura Station
    • 15:00 Disband @ Yokohama Takashimaya

    What Is a Private Kamakura Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, and it was their first time in Japan. After sightseeing in Kamakura, they planned to travel to Osaka and Kyoto. At Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, they listened with great interest to explanations about the differences between shrines and temples, as well as the history of the Kamakura shogunate. On Komachi Street, they enjoyed a soba lunch. At Hasedera Temple, they seemed impressed by the magnificent eleven-faced Kannon statue and the beautiful ocean view from the observation deck. At Kotoku-in, they appeared moved by the grand Great Buddha statue. Since they said they could return to their accommodation on their own after shopping at a department store, we parted ways at the Yokohama Takashimaya. I responded to the guests' requests as they wished, so I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMinatomirai~Yokohama200JPY
    Section 2TrainYokohama~Kamakura440JPY
    Section 3BusKamakura~Hachimangu / Keikyu Bus220JPY
    Section 4TrainKamakura~Hase (Kanagawa Prefecture)200JPY
    Section 5TrainHase (Kanagawa Prefecture)~Kamakura200JPY
    Section 6TrainKamakura~Yokohama440JPY
    Total1,700JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Tabist Ginza & Meiji Shrine

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tabist Ginza & Meiji Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Tabist Ginza
    • 11:10 Tsukiji
    • 12:30 Asakusa
    • 14:15 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:15 Disband at Shibuya

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, and Meiji Shrine The guests were a group visiting from Europe. Some of the group had studied at a graduate school in Europe, and since I had two former colleagues who had studied social development at that same institution, it was nice to be able to share that topic. Because the meeting point had not been confirmed for some time, I was grateful for the support of [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) on that occasion. Interestingly, guests in such situations tend to be friendly, and the group today was also very warm and easygoing. What was curious, though, was that they did not try any of the activities. Whether it was sampling street food in Tsukiji, purifying at the water pavilion, offering incense, or praying in front of the main hall, they watched the demonstrations and listened attentively, but did not attempt to do them themselves. Perhaps it was to save time. Once again, this time too, they reacted strongly to the reason for rinsing the mouth and were convinced by the explanation. Visiting Tsukiji, Asakusa, and Meiji Shrine, what left the strongest impression on the guests were "dragons" and "onions." Having seen them in various places, they seemed to feel firsthand how much the Japanese valued water and how much they feared demons. They mentioned this both during the tour and at the final farewell, saying, "During our stay in Japan, we would like to pay attention to dragons and onions." At Meiji Shrine, because a stage had been set up in the center of the plaza in front of the main hall for the spring grand festival, the flow of foot traffic became complicated, and I found myself thinking, with all due respect, that this might not be the best time of year to hold it. They were also delighted to see a wedding couple at Asakusa Shrine and a shrine visit for a newborn at Meiji Shrine. Incidentally, when I explained the meaning of the tsunokakushi wedding headdress, everyone laughed. They were not especially interested in history, but they were curious about the unique customs and ways of thinking of the Japanese, and we enjoyed conversing while comparing Japan and their home country. Because we skipped lunch and were able to move smoothly from place to place, I took them to Shibuya at the end, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTsukiji~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Meiji-jingumae260JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku~Shibuya160JPY
    Total630JPY

    Nice to meet you. I am delighted to introduce myself. My nickname is Danda. I live in Saitama prefecture next to Tokyo, but I was brought up in Kanazawa, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. My favorite things are bonsai and hiking. Also, I have been a big fun of history and sumo since my childhood. As for the guide, I have enjoyed making communication with foreign visitors since 2019. I have taken more than 30 private groups to not only major scenic spots but also their favorite places such as tea ceremony, maid cafe, sumo tournament, bonsai village, fire ritual and so on. I can arrange the original tour based on your requests and curiosity. It will be only for you. I look forward to meeting you soon. Thank you.

    Apr 21, 2026
    Sabrina_F
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Balade riche en découvertes
    Nous avons passé un super moment avec Danda.…

    Apr 14, 2026
    davidjonesresponseen
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking tour with Danda in Tokyo
    Excellent walking tour, we followed our…

    Apr 10, 2026
    Anna_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour with great guide
    Excellent tour with a very good guide…

    Mar 25, 2026
    Nahmjee_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour guide and experience.
    Danda was great with my family. He…

  • Hyogo in One Day: to 12:10     Yasaka Shrine & to 16:00    Nijo Castle

    Hyogo in One Day: to 12:10 Yasaka Shrine & to 16:00 Nijo Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Meet at Kobe Port Terminal
    • 10:15 to 11:15 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 11:45 to 12:10 Yasaka Shrine
    • 12;20 to 12:40 Gion
    • 12:50 to 13:30 Lunch at Sushiro
    • 14:00 to 14:30 Nishiki Market
    • 15:00 to 16:00 Nijo Castle
    • 17:30 Disband at Kobe Port Terminal

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Before a Kobe Cruise Departure Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. The forecast called for heavy rain from the afternoon, so I moved the tour along at a faster pace, hoping to finish the sightseeing and head toward Kobe Port before the rain arrived. However, as it was a Sunday during a holiday period, Kiyomizu-dera was extremely crowded both on the way up and on the way down. Once we finished at Kiyomizu-dera, though, we were able to proceed with the tour as planned. On the way to Kobe Port, it began to pour heavily around the Tennozan area, so I was glad we had managed to avoid the rain during the tour itself.

    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 !!

    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…

  • Nara in One Day: 20  Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower & Yoshikien Garden

    Nara in One Day: 20 Todaiji’s Shoro Bell Tower & Yoshikien Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Kintetsu-Nara Station (Start of Guided Tour) I'll be at the ticket gate.
    • (bus 250y, or 2 taxis 1200y a car)
    • 10:10-40 Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Deer Park 
    • We will be in the park almost to the end of tour (walk 10 minutes)
    • 11:00-40 Kasuga-taisha Shrine (UNESCO World Heritage)
    • entrance 700 yen (walk 10 minutes)
    • lunch at Mizuya Chaya
    • 12:00-20 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill:
    • former katana sword manufacturer's, craft shop etc.
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • 12:30- Todaiji Temple (UNESCO World Heritage)
    • 12]30-13:00 Todaiji's Nigatsudo Hall
    • (walk 5 minutes)
    • 13:10-20 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • 13:30-14:00 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall
    •  (walk 5 minutes)
    • 14:10-20 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate):
    • walk 5 minutes
    • 14:30-15:00 Yoshikien Garden
    • walk 3 minutes
    • 15:10-40 Photographer Irie Taikichi's residence
    • walk 5 minutes & bus
    • 16:00 (End of Guided Tour) back at Kintetsu-Nara Station

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Japan Like for a Senior Group? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. This was a first-time case for me. Even so, as the guide I was the oldest of everyone present. I made an effort to walk very slowly and considerately, but there were still requests to go even more slowly. The group appeared to have considerable difficulty with their legs and hips, perhaps due to a lifestyle centered on driving everywhere. I was a little surprised by this. I shared a special method for helping to restore worn cartilage in the knee joints. Because the group was large, I could not go into the deep, detailed, and entertaining explanations of Buddhism and Shinto that I usually give, but the guests told me they had learned a great deal.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKintetsu-Nara Station / Nara Kotsu~Todaiji Great Buddha Hall & Kasuga-taisha Shrine / Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Section 2BusTodaiji Great Buddha Hall & National Museum / Nara Kotsu~Kintetsu-Nara Station / Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Total500JPY

    Hello! Thank you for choosing Nara! I bet you’ll love Nara. I specialize in Nara because Nara is the unique place where in one day you can cover the history and religions of Japan from the ancient times to the post war era while enjoying rambling in the UNESCO World Heritage park, having communication with lovely deer, surrounded with the beautiful nature.
    I grew up in Nara, went university in Kyoto, enjoyed teaching at high schools and a university in Osaka. The three former capitals of Japan are home to me.
    After retiring from teaching I began guiding so that I can meet various people from various corners of the world with a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Each time I guide, I find it hugely rewarding because I learn a lot from my guests sharing the history, culture and all that I know about Nara, Kyoto and Osaka.
    I used to be a marathon runner, mountain climber and skier though I am not much of them anymore.
    What I especially recommend is to stay in Nara a couple of days and enjoy communicating with friendly deer while visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nara in early morning, temples and shrines at night are well worth experiencing.

    May 16, 2026
    I3520JTcristinat
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nara with family
    Excellent tour with Junichi!!! Perfect English speaking guide and…

    May 3, 2026
    Maria_J
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyable day in Nara
    We spent 6 hours in Nara with Junichi…

    Apr 11, 2026
    64sandig
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Osaka DEP. with Licensed Guide
    ????? Absolutely Outstanding ? Junichi Made Our Nara Day…

    Mar 30, 2026
    dpadillachavez
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
    Great day at Nara!
    Best tour on Nara, Junichi…

  • Osaka in One Day: @ Sumiyoshi Taisha & @ Umeda Sky Building

    Osaka in One Day: @ Sumiyoshi Taisha & @ Umeda Sky Building

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:45 Meet @ The Ritz-Carlton Osaka
    • 10:15 @ Sumiyoshi Taisha
    • 11:45 @ Kuromon Market (via Doguyasuji)
    • 12:30 @ Dotonbori
    • 13:15 @ Shinsaibashi
    • 13:45 @ Umeda Sky Building
    • 15:00 Disband @ JR Osaka Station

    Title: What Is a Private Osaka Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Sumiyoshi Taisha and Doguyasuji The guest was a visitor from North America who moved through the day smoothly. Although they mentioned having visited Japan several times before, it was not easy to pinpoint their specific interests. Rather than focusing on the individual sights themselves, the guest seemed to particularly enjoy photography, taking pictures everywhere throughout the city as well as at each spot. At Sumiyoshi Taisha, the guest searched for the popular "Gotairiki" pebbles and took some home as a memento. Near Namba, at "Doguyasuji," the guest browsed a shop selling remarkably realistic food samples. I enjoyed hearing interesting stories from the guest about their home region, which made the day very enjoyable and rewarding.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayUmeda (Subway)~Namba (Subway)240JPY
    Section 2TrainNamba (Nankai Line)~Sumiyoshi Taisha240JPY
    Section 3TrainSumiyoshi Taisha~Namba (Nankai Line)240JPY
    Section 4SubwayShinsaibashi~Umeda (Subway)240JPY
    Total960JPY

    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

    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…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Diane_B
    Viator review: Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Yama was amazing!!
    Our tour guide…

    Jul 4, 2026
    Navigator661725
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful time!
    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…

  • Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at Mitsui garden hotel Osaka premier, depart on foot ➡ On foot, to the Nakanoshima Festival (10:00~11:00) ➡ By subway, to Osaka Castle (11:30~12:50) ➡ By JR, to Osaka Station (explain how to get to JR Nara the day after tomorrow) ➡ On foot, enjoying a stroll to the hotel, end at the hotel (13:40)

    Title: What Is a Half-Day Private Walking Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests had not contacted me before the tour began, but I was relieved when they appeared as scheduled. It seemed they had been too busy to check their email or messaging app. Since I heard they had just arrived from North America the day before, I decided that rather than starting from the subway station nearest their hotel, we would first walk to Yodoyabashi Station so they could explore the city of Osaka. The scenery around this area, where retro historic buildings and modern high-rise towers coexist, seemed to really resonate with the guests, and they were very moved (partly because it was the first day of their trip). The Nakanoshima Festival was being held during Golden Week, and they were very curious about the many food stalls. Over four hours, we walked about 15,000 steps. I was impressed by how strong a walker one of the guests was.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusYodoyabashi~Tanimachi 4-chome190JPY
    Section 2TrainOsakajokoen~Osaka180JPY
    Total370JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.8.30 Information center of Tsukiji Honganji temple
    • 2.8.30-9.30 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 3.9.50-11.20 Imperial Palace(waiting outside)
    • 4.11.30-12.10 Lunch Free Horse(Otemachi First Square)
    • 5.12.20-13.10 Imperial Palace East Garden
    • 6.13.30‐14.00 Nezu Shrine
    • 7.14.00-16.30 walk around Yanaka area
    • stop on a café, Asakura Museum.
    • 7.17.10-18.00 Meiji Jingu Shrine

    Title: What Can You See on a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report from Tsukiji to Meiji Shrine The guests were a group visiting from Europe. Some of the guests were retired and enjoyed gardening and traveling, while others worked in various fields, and one had a strong physical condition from cycling and had no trouble walking for nearly ten hours. The Thursday originally planned had a forecast of heavy rain, so we consulted via a messaging app and changed the tour to Friday. However, on Friday the guests had a reservation to visit the Imperial Palace from 9:50 to 11:20, so we first saw Tsukiji in the morning, then I took them to Kikyomon Gate and waited at Wadakura Fountain Park. After lunch, I explained Japanese history at the table in the restaurant. One of the guests asked, "During the period of national isolation, why did Japan allow trade with the Netherlands?" I answered, "Japan thought that Western nations were trying to colonize Japan through the spread of Christianity, but the Netherlands did not seek to spread it." Another of the guests said, "But later, didn't Japan itself colonize Korea?" I replied, "Japan was following the lead of Western colonialism." One of the guests asked, "Why did Perry demand that Japan open its country?" I answered, "The United States apparently needed a supply base for water for its whaling ships. Perhaps in truth they intended to make it a colony." When I told the story of the Ako Roshi at the site of the Pine Corridor in the East Gardens, one of the guests said, "A similar episode appeared in the Netflix series 'Shogun.'" At Nezu Shrine, I explained that the name "Ema" means "picture of a horse" in Japanese, and that in the old days live horses were dedicated, which surprised the guest with that name. During a break at a coffee shop in Yanaka, one of the guests asked, "Is English your first foreign language?" I said, "Yes. What is your first foreign language?" and the guest told me, "British people are arrogant about languages and do not learn anything other than English." Regarding the well of Kato Kiyomasa at Meiji Shrine, I said, "A young person looking for a job set a photo of the well as their phone wallpaper, and suddenly received a call and got the job." One of the guests then encouraged another to try it too. That person may also have been looking for a job. However, since two of the guests took a photo together beneath the sacred camphor tree, it seems their marriage may also be near.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTsukiji~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTakebashi~Nezu180JPY
    Section 3TrainNippori~Harajuku260JPY
    Total620JPY

    I have been working as a tour guide once a week since the autumein 2024. I got 5 star ratings from 32 individuals or groups succesively.
    Previously, I have been working with grain business for 43 years. I was sent to a subsidiary office in New Orleans for three years.
    I love Japanese history, culture and nature and want as many viaitors as possible to know the good and beautiful things about Japan. There’s a Zen teaching that I hold dear. That is ‘Ichi-go ichie’, which means ’Treasure every encounter as it may not come again’. Looking forward to see you!

    Jul 4, 2026
    317roxaneh
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great time in Tokyo!
    We had a great day with Lance! He…

    Jul 1, 2026
    Voyager795644
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo private family tour
    Our family of 5 (kids age 8, 10,…

    Jun 26, 2026
    Leslie_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Market, temples, Nature, and a great guide
    This tour is amazing and…

    Jun 17, 2026
    JKing275
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo
    Our guide, Lance was exceptional! He immediately contacted me…

  • Gifu in Half a Day: 集合場所でツアー開始 & 最後の観光地でツアー終了

    Gifu in Half a Day: 集合場所でツアー開始 & 最後の観光地でツアー終了

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 集合場所でツアー開始
    • 10:20 宮川朝市
    • 10:50 三町筋(古い町並み)
    • 11:20 高山陣屋
    • 12:30 (ゲストの車で移動)
    • 12:40 昼食
    • 13:30 飛騨の里
    • 14:30 最後の観光地でツアー終了

    What Is a Private Guided Tour of Takayama Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan on a trip. They were traveling around the Takayama area by rental car from Nagoya, and one of the guests had been learning Japanese online, so at times they enjoyed mixing Japanese words and phrases into their English. Because they had a rental car, moving around was relatively easy, so I guided them to a noodle restaurant popular with local residents, located a little away from the tourist facilities, for lunch. Since there was no soba allergy, the guests especially enjoyed the meal. It was memorable how attentively the guests listened, with genuine interest, to explanations about the old townscape, the samurai and townsfolk culture at Takayama Jinya, and the farming life and traditional culture of various parts of Hida at Hida no Sato.

    I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter(English).
    I have lived in Takayama city more than 30 years and worked for the city office, mainly at sectioin of cultural preservation and at local museums. So, I’ve enjoyed learning about traditional lifestyles and peopple’s history of Takayama and its surrounding areas for last few decades. Let’s enjoy them while you are walking with me! I would like to take you to popular spots such as Takayama Jinya, a national historic landmark, and old town atmosphere, morning markets, and The Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall in the city. And I also take you to Shirakawago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Kamikochi, a famous mountain resort as well.
    I love to communicate with foriegn visiters and share our Japanese traditonal ideas with you!

    May 24, 2026
    benhJ5330ZF
    Tripadvisor review: Takayama Half-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Enjoying a morning in Takayama
    Micasa was an excellent and knowledgeable…

    Apr 26, 2026
    Abbie_O
    Viator review: Takayama Local Cuisine, Food & Sake Cultural Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent Tour
    Micasa was an excellent tour guide.…

    Apr 19, 2026
    Richard_S
    Viator review: Takayama Local Cuisine, Food & Sake Cultural Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Connection to Japanese history and culture
    An exceptional…

    Apr 7, 2026
    Jon_S
    Viator review: Takayama Half-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Cold Weather, but Warm Tour Guide
    Our tour guide, Micasa-san, had…