Shizuoka: Miho no Matsubara & Shimizu Port

Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

April, 2026

Tour Itinerary

11:20 Miho no Matsubara
12:20 Nihondaira Yume Terrace
12:50 Hotel
14:00 Rinzai-ji Temple
14:30 Sunpu Castle Park
15:00 Kashi no Ichi (lunch)
16:45 S-Pulse Dream Plaza
17:00 Arrive at Shimizu Port

Title: What's a Private Shizuoka Tour from Shimizu Port Like on a Rainy Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. I chartered a taxi for three and a half hours, covering the route from Miho no Matsubara to Sunpu Castle Park. Afterwards, we returned to Shimizu Station by public transportation. I had set the meeting time for 10:30, but because 5,000 people disembarked from the ship all at once, it was very crowded and we were not able to meet until 11:00. I should have taken this into account when setting the meeting time. Today it was rainy and cold, and Mount Fuji was not visible, so the guests did not seem eager to walk around outside much. However, I made an effort to help them enjoy the day by talking about the history of Shizuoka and about Japan. Many visitors from North America have watched the drama "SHOGUN," so it was easy to talk about Tokugawa Ieyasu. Rinzai-ji Temple on a rainy day also had a wonderful, evocative atmosphere. I feel that a guide's skills are truly tested in Shizuoka City when Mount Fuji cannot be seen. Going forward, I would like to keep a variety of topics ready.

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

Transportation cost per person

No.	Transportation	Route	Fare
Section 1	Train	Shizuoka～Shimizu (Shizuoka Prefecture)	240JPY
Total			240JPY

Tour Report by Noah

I have recently started my journey as a guide, and I am committed to providing attentive and personalized service to each and every guest. My goal is to share the charm and attractions of the local area to the fullest, ensuring that your experience becomes an unforgettable one.

Though I am still new to this role, I aim to leverage my fresh perspective and adaptability while constantly striving to improve. I am dedicated to guiding with sincerity and enthusiasm.

If you have any questions or requests, please don’t hesitate to let me know. I look forward to creating wonderful memories together!

Request Booking

Apr 30, 2026
Darci_V
Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
Naoko is an amazing ambassador!
Naoko (Noah) was wonderful!…

August, 2026

Kyoto in Half a Day: Nanzenji Temple & Stroll through Pontocho

Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

April, 2026

Tour Itinerary

13:00　Meet in the hotel lobby
13:30　Nanzenji Temple
14:30　Heian Shrine
15:30　Gion
16:00　Stroll through Pontocho
16:30　See off the taxi from Sanjo and finish

Title: What Is a Rainy-Day Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from North America. Because of the rain, during the itinerary briefing I suggested visiting Nijo Castle, which allows indoor sightseeing, instead of the largely outdoor Heian Shrine, but the guests said they were used to the rain, so we proceeded with the original plan as scheduled. At Nanzen-ji, the guests climbed the Sanmon gate, and although the distant views were somewhat hard to see, they were deeply moved by the scenery of the fresh green of the Higashiyama hills glistening in the rain. At Heian Shrine, they were amazed by the size of the great torii gate and enjoyed taking photographs. In the shrine garden, although few flowers were in bloom, they enjoyed seeing the white herons and the views from the bridge. Afterward, since there was some extra time following our visit to Gion, at the guests' request I showed them Pontocho. They expressed interest in sukiyaki and shabu-shabu and said they wanted to try them during their stay. As they needed to return to their hotel by 17:00, I saw them off as they boarded a taxi from Sanjo, and the tour concluded.

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

Tour Report by Umi

Hello! My name is Umi. I was born and raised in Kyoto, and I still live here today.

I have always loved traveling. When I visit another country, I enjoy learning about its history, culture, and way of life from local people. Talking with locals helps me understand a place much better than simply visiting famous sights. That’s why I became a tour guide.

Through my tours, I hope to help visitors gain a deeper understanding of Japan. In addition to its beauty and traditions, I am also happy to talk about modern life in Japan. My goal is for my guests to leave Japan with wonderful memories and a deeper appreciation of the country.

I’m looking forward to meeting you!

Request Booking

Jun 29, 2026
U3009CHlaurad
Kyoto 4 Hour walking Tour
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Umi was a great tour guide, very…

May 9, 2026
Adventurer745194
Lovely intro to Kyoto
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
We had a lovely morning guided by Umi.…

Apr 30, 2026
jonathangG3501FZ
4 hour private tour in Kyoto
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Umi was a lovely tour guide…

Apr 27, 2026
Jennifer_S
Wonderful, thoughtful guide
Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
Umi was absolutely wonderful. She…

August, 2026

Tokyo in One Day: Fukagawa Fudodo Temple & Stroll through Kappabashi

Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

April, 2026

Tour Itinerary

10:00 Meet at the hotel
10:20 Stroll through Tsukiji Outer Market
12:30 Visit Fukagawa Fudodo Temple
14:00 Meal at an izakaya
15:20 Stroll through Kappabashi
16:00 Disband at Kappabashi

What's a Private Food and Kitchenware Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Fukagawa, and Kappabashi The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. Since they had expressed an interest in knives and pottery, I first guided them through the Tsukiji Outer Market. At a pottery wholesaler, some of the guests spent plenty of time selecting favorite plates and other items to buy. We attended a Shingon Buddhist goma fire ritual at Fukagawa Fudo-do, and the guests were deeply moved by the powerful ceremony. We then enjoyed a late lunch at an izakaya in Monzen-nakacho, where they sampled a variety of classic izakaya dishes. In Kappabashi, they browsed the cooking equipment shops and enjoyed shopping. Although I had been in contact by email beforehand, I did not receive clear answers to my questions about the itinerary or dietary needs, so the tour started almost without preparation. There are four Mitsui Garden hotels in Ginza, and even though I had confirmed by email the day before, the guests were staying at a different one than the hotel I had been told, so we barely managed to meet in time. I had been careful because a similar issue had happened before with a meeting at a hotel in Ginza. In addition, no dietary restrictions had been communicated in advance, and on the day it turned out that one of the guests could not eat gluten. Because of this, it took extra time to find a suitable restaurant. This experience reminded me once again of the importance of communicating clearly with guests in advance.

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

Transportation cost per person

No.	Transportation	Route	Fare
Section 1	Train	Higashi-Ginza～Tsukiji	180JPY
Section 2	Train	Tsukiji～Monzen-Nakacho	180JPY
Section 3	Train	Monzen-Nakacho～Tawaramachi (Tokyo)	210JPY
Total			570JPY

Tour Report by Toru

Hello, I am Toru, a certified National Guide. I have been guiding since 2017, primarily in the Tokyo area, which includes Hakone, Kamakura, and Yokohama. To make your stay in Japan unforgettable, I always discuss a tour plan with my guests via email before their arrival. Please share your preferences, including the places you’d like to visit and the experiences you’d like to try during your stay in Tokyo. If this is your first visit to Japan, I’m excited to help make your time in Tokyo even more enjoyable by suggesting sample itineraries and offering travel tips.

For more information about me, please visit my profile site.
https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/hello-welcome-to-japan/
For your reference, please feel free to visit my blog, which features popular sightseeing spots and interesting experiences.
https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/

I look forward to meeting you soon!

Request Booking

July 2, 2026
David S
Tripadvisor : Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
Incredible experience at the Markets!
Toru…

Jun 6, 2026
meltemg957
Unique experience with a highly knowledgeable guide
Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

Jun 4, 2026
bluejerky1
Turo was knowledgeable and the tour was fun and fun and informative. Highly recommend.
Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction…

May 29, 2026
Eva P
Fabulous experience with Toru!
Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
Toru was…

August, 2026

Hyogo in One Day: @ Himeji Castle & @ Koko-en Garden

Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

April, 2026

Tour Itinerary

09:30 Meet @ JR Himeji Station
09:45 @ Honmachi-dori Shopping Street (Beckoning Cat)
10:00 @ Himeji Castle
12:30 @ Koko-en Garden
13:00 @ Mount Shosha, Engyo-ji Temple (including light meal)
15:45 Dismiss @ JR Himeji Station

Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Himeji Castle and Engyoji Temple Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe, and we were able to travel smoothly throughout the day. They both listened attentively to the guide's explanations. Although we experienced quite heavy rain today, this made the fresh greenery at the various spots stand out all the more beautifully, and the guests seemed very satisfied. On the way to Himeji Castle, they visited a shop in the shopping street selling unusual handmade beckoning cats (maneki-neko), and purchased maneki-neko and daruma dolls as souvenirs. At the Sangokubori area of Himeji Castle, they were able to see the white herons (shirasagi), which are the origin of the castle's alternative name "White Heron Castle," twice—once on the way there and once on the way back—which delighted them greatly. When I mentioned that seeing one is said to bring a year of good luck, they were very pleased, saying they would have "two years of good luck." At Mount Shosha and Engyoji Temple, the guests were a little hungry, so they enjoyed "kitsune udon" at a local tea house and commented that it was very delicious. At Engyoji Temple, they also rang the large bell and had their goshuin stamp books inscribed, and enjoyed themselves greatly. I presented them with a handmade drawstring pouch made by my sister, which they were very happy to receive. (It was a shame that I had only prepared one, as I had thought there would be just one guest.) After the tour, the guests planned to have a coffee break around Himeji Station before returning to Kyoto, so we parted ways inside the station.

Click here for more details: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

Transportation cost per person

No.	Transportation	Route	Fare
Section 1	Other	Mount Shosha Ropeway Summit Station～Maniden Hall	500JPY
Section 2	Bus	Mount Shosha Ropeway / Shinki Bus～Himeji Station (North Exit) / Shinki Bus	320JPY
Total			820JPY

Tour Report by Yama

Dear my guests,

This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
explanation for these three foods.

1) Tako-yaki
Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
2) Okonomi-yaki
This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
3) Kushi-katsu
Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
that you like them very much.

I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
Yama

Request Booking

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…

August, 2026

Kyoto in Half a Day: The Thousand Kyoto & Nishiki Market

Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

April, 2026

Tour Itinerary

13:00 The Thousand Kyoto
13:30-14:30. Sanjusangendo
15:00-16:00. Nijo Castle
16:30-17:00. Nishiki Market
Finish the to

What Can You See on a Rainy-Day Private Kyoto Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. One of the guests had studied Japan extensively and was very familiar with central Kyoto. We had planned to visit Okochi Sanso Villa, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and Tenryu-ji Temple, but since it was raining, we changed the plan and decided to visit Arashiyama the following day if the weather improved. At Sanjusangen-do, one of the guests had brought a camera, and as the azaleas were in full bloom, they took photos of the irises and birds. They also found the tied-up omikuji fortune slips unusual and took photos of them. At Nijo Castle, the guests listened attentively to my explanations, including the description of the garden. After purchasing an ICOCA card, we took the subway to Shijo, where I introduced the entrance to Nishiki Market, and the tour ended with a coffee they kindly treated me to at a nearby coffee shop. It was a very enjoyable tour.

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

Transportation cost per person

No.	Transportation	Route	Fare
Section 1	Bus	Kyoto～Sanjusangendo-mae／Queen Line	460JPY
Section 2	Subway	Nijojo-mae～Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)	220JPY
Total			680JPY

Tour Report by Harumi

Hello, my name is Harumi, and I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter in Japan. I have been actively involved in volunteer activities for many years, sharing my passion for Japanese culture and history. As a kimono dressing instructor, I can provide hands-on kimono experiences and guide tours. Additionally, I have extensive knowledge of sumo wrestling, making my tours ideal for those interested in this fascinating sport. I am also well-versed in Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings (Jūdenken) and can introduce historical townscapes dating back to the Edo period. If you are interested, I would be happy to show you around the sake brewing process in the Nada region.

Request Booking

Jul 11, 2026
Rahul_P
Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
Private Tour
Highly recommended if looking for a comfortable tour…

Jul 7, 2026
782MarkS782
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Harumi and Kyoto
This was amazing – truly memory making. Harumi is…

Jun 25, 2026
JenCBear
Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Great visit with a great guide Harumi
Harumi was a fantastic guide…

Jun 21, 2026
Andrew_M
Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
Amazing guided experience
Harumi is an amazing guide.…

August, 2026

Kanagawa in One Day: By 🚌 from Tenyu to Sounzan & Yunessun

Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

April, 2026

Tour Itinerary

9:00 Meet
9:24 By 🚌 from Tenyu to Sounzan
By ropeway to Owakudani
10:10 Owakudani ropeway
Togendai
10:45 Pirate ship
11:25 Motohakone
11:30 Hotel de Yama shuttle bus
11:45 Hotel de Yama Momiji Garden and lunch
On foot to Hakone Shrine Red Torii
Old Cedar Avenue
Via Hakone Checkpoint
Maruyama Bussan
14:16 By bus from Hakone Checkpoint
14:35 Arrive at Yunessun
Accompany to hotel lobby
14:45 Disband

What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour Like in Spring? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests had been traveling to various places and were scheduled to return to Tokyo the next day before heading home. They mentioned it was a shame that the cherry blossoms had already finished, but today they were able to make up for it with the magnificent blooms at the azalea garden of the mountain hotel. In Hakone, there were still botan-zakura (peony cherry blossoms) here and there, and the timing for these was also just right. Mount Fuji was not visible, but they showed me a wonderful photo they had taken from the Shinkansen the previous day. They were not at all familiar with the Maruyama yosegi puzzle boxes, but were impressed by the presentation, and since one of the guests works as a mechanical engineer, it was said to make an ideal souvenir, so they purchased one. At the mountain hotel, they enjoyed Japanese cuisine.

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

Transportation cost per person

No.	Transportation	Route	Fare
Section 1	Free Pass	Odawara Station～Odawara Station	6,000JPY
Total			6,000JPY

Tour Report by Hiro

I am Hiroki Morikawa :Hiro:, English guide living with my wife ,just a hop skip and jump from Hakone, Kamakura, Tokyo and the Mt. Fuji.
I am a friendly grandfather of 4 grandchildren.
I would love to help you enjoy Japan, using my 3 strong points.
First: I am used to dealing with any kind of matters. I have experienced various situations in the 40 years of my working life.
Second: I am good at making a friendly atmosphere between you and local people to help you enjoy Japan. I was raised in western Japan, studied in northern Japan and now live in central Japan. So I know various local cultures and dialects to communicate with a wide variety of people.
Third: I can explain things from a technical point of view.
For example, how the Great Buddha was constructed, because I am a master of engineering graduated from Hokkaido University.
Please enjoy Japan with me. See you soon!!
dummy

Request Booking

Jun 30, 2026
G2432BLtimothyc
Tripadvisor review: Hakone Full Day Tour with Guide and Vehicle
6 hour tour of Hakone
we had a great experience with…

Jun 25, 2026
T7734IPbrandons
Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
First time in hakone
Niro was perfect for us. He was…

Jun 8, 2026
JasonB6980
Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Hiro-san knows Hakone!
Our guide, Hiro-san, did a wonderful job introducing…

Jun 7, 2026
Tourist31988989961
Tripadvisor review: Kamakura 8 hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide from Tokyo
Great Day and Tour
Kamakura was amazing. Enjoyed…

August, 2026

Tokyo in Half a Day: Asakusa & Ginza

Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

April, 2026

Tour Itinerary

9:30 Meet up @ Hotel
10:10 Asakusa
11:40 Ueno
13:00 Ginza
13:30 Dismissal & UNIQLO Ginza

Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Ueno, and Ginza Body: The guests were visitors from Europe. They said that after hearing stories from friends who had been to Japan, they wanted to experience a completely different culture. They remarked that while the crowded subway was similar to what they were used to, the sheer number of people at the tourist spots was surprising. They had also studied beforehand, reading books about the differences between shrines and temples and about the shogun. At Nakamise they did not do any particular shopping, but they were interested in children's jinbei. After strolling through Ueno, we headed toward Ginza, but as one of the guests felt a little chilly and wanted to buy some clothes, I took them to UNIQLO before we parted ways.

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

Transportation cost per person

No.	Transportation	Route	Fare
Section 1	Subway	Nishi-Shinjuku～Asakusa	260JPY
Section 2	Subway	Asakusa～Ueno	180JPY
Section 3	Subway	Ueno～Ginza	180JPY
Total			620JPY

Tour Report by Rumi

Hello,
I’m Rumi.Welcome to Japan!!
I’m a government-licensed guide in the Tokyo area.
I’m so excited to have a chance to show you my favorite places in Tokyo.
Tokyo is a fantastic city with many aspects like history,culture and food.
What interests you about Tokyo?
What kind of Japanese food would you like to try?
I’ll take you to various places according to your request.
My favorite spot is Meiji Shrine.
It’s so peaceful that I’m sure you like it.
I really like to talk with foreigners about various topics.So, I love my job.
I look forward to meeting and guiding you soon.

Request Booking

Jun 29, 2026
898clausw
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Really helpfull guide
Extremely helpfull to have a friendly and competent guide…

Jun 27, 2026
sallypO7128PM
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Tour of Tokyo- family with older teens
My family had an excellent…

Jun 15, 2026
Scott P
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Terrific Tour and Guide
We had an incredible day! Rumi was…

Jun 12, 2026
Tonya O
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Rumi is a great guide!
Rumi was a wonderful guide. She…

August, 2026

Hokkaido in One Day: Morning Market & cruise terminal Dismissal

Hakodate Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

April, 2026

Tour Itinerary

8:50 pick up
9:00 Morning Market
10:00 Goryokaku Tower
10:50 Hakodate Magistrate's Office, Goryokaku Park Earthworks
13:00 Motomachi Walk
14:00 Red Brick Warehouse (Lunch)
14:45 cruise terminal Dismissal

Title: What Is a Private Hakodate Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, and they arrived earlier than scheduled, which was unusual. We headed straight to the morning market. They mentioned that seafood is also plentiful where they live, but they looked very keenly at the crabs, abalone, and scallops. The cherry blossoms at Goryokaku were past their peak, but the guests said the petals scattering in the wind were beautiful. Unusually, they visited the Magistrate's Office. They listened attentively to explanations about the samurai and the history of Goryokaku, and asked many questions, which made the explanations very rewarding to give. They said they felt satisfied to have learned so many things. The Mount Hakodate ropeway was suspended due to strong winds, so we took a leisurely stroll through the Motomachi district and walked all the way to the Red Brick Warehouses. We had lunch there and then walked back to the ship.

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

Transportation cost per person

No.	Transportation	Route	Fare
Section 1	Other	Hakodate Station Front～Goryokaku Koen-mae	800JPY
Total			800JPY

Tour Report by Akira

Hello, my name is Akira Matsumoto, a national government-licensed guide in Hakodate and Sapporo. I’m a retired public school science teacher and have been working as a professional tour guide for more than five years. (Before retirement, I used to work as a volunteer guide mainly in Hakodate for more than 10 years) So I know every corner of Hakodate and its history, culture, and food.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, I got into the graduate school of Hokkaido University, and in Japan’s modern history.
So I am well-versed in Japanese history, Hokkaido’s local history, and the Ainu aborigine people’s culture.
I can offer you an informative and enjoyable tour with a polite and hospitable atmosphere.
I like to interact and communicate with foreign people and introduce my guests to Japan’s beautiful scenery, wonderful culture,
and best food. I assure you that I will welcome you with my best hospitality and make every effort to make your tour a good memory.

Request Booking

May 22, 2026
Leanne S
Tripadvisor review: Hakodate 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Cruise port must
Akira was our tour guide and was great.…

May 7, 2026
Narayanan_V
Viator review: Otaru 6hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
Akira san is a wonderful…
Akira san is a wonderful guide. Very…

May 1, 2026
Maria R
Tripadvisor review: Hakodate 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Best of Hakodate
Akira was a very knowledgeable guide who showed…

Feb 18, 2026
Danielle_S
An insider’s tour of Otaru
Viator review: Otaru 6hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
My guide Akira was knowledgeable, kind, patient,…

August, 2026

Nagasaki Customized Private Tour by Car

Nagasaki Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

April, 2026

Tour Itinerary

9:00 Matsugae International Cruise Terminal → 9:15 Nabekanmuri Mountain → 9:40 Glover Garden → 10:40 Oura Cathedral → 11:00 Gunkanjima Digital Museum → 12:30 Atomic Bomb Museum, Hypocenter, Peace Park → 13:45 One-legged Torii → 14:00 Matsugae International Cruise Terminal

What Is a Private Cruise-Port Day Tour of Nagasaki Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I have handled about ten assignments with [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) so far, but this was the first time I had no prior contact with the guests at all before the tour. Feeling a little anxious, I waited from just after 8:30 at the usual exit of the Matsugae International Cruise Terminal. Right around the scheduled time of 9:00, the guests spotted the paper with their name that I had prepared and approached with a smile, and we were able to meet without any trouble. I felt relieved. Before departing, I used a map to explain the places I was thinking of visiting that day. As the weather was not very good, I wanted to move before it got worse, so I first guided the group to Nabekanmuriyama, where they could get an overall view of Nagasaki City. Coming down the mountain, the (upper) second gate of Glover Garden is along the way, so we got off there and decided to enter Glover Garden. As it was their first day in Japan and they did not have any Japanese yen in cash, I covered the admission for them. I guided them through the former Mitsubishi No. 2 Dock House and the former Glover Residence, among other sites. After leaving Glover Garden, we proceeded to Oura Cathedral, where I explained the episode of the "Discovery of the Hidden Christians," and then walked directly to the Gunkanjima Digital Museum. Here there are many explanatory videos, and the English-language content is substantial. The guests watched with great interest. Perhaps because they had seen and learned so much at Glover Garden and the Gunkanjima Digital Museum, they said, "We've already learned so much. If we can just visit the atomic bomb-related sites, that will be enough for today." So I had the private car meet us in front of the Gunkanjima Digital Museum, and we headed to the Atomic Bomb Museum. Before entering, I showed them a photocopy I carry of "The Boy Standing by the Crematorium" and told them, "The final exhibit is this photograph. I hope you will look at it carefully along with the explanation," and then let them go inside on their own. They came out after about 40 minutes, and it was clear they had been deeply moved. After that, I guided them via the hypocenter to Peace Park, and then they boarded the private car that had been waiting beside the park. From the car window they viewed the one-legged torii gate before we returned to the Matsugae International Cruise Terminal. I guided them to the currency exchange machine and received the Glover Garden admission fee I had covered. They said, "We intend to visit Nagasaki again. When we do, we'd like to go to the places you told us about but couldn't visit today, such as Dejima," and the tour came to an end. Considering that we had not been able to make any contact until we met in person that day, it was almost unbelievable how smoothly the tour went. I am glad they seemed to have enjoyed Nagasaki.

Click here for more details: Nagasaki Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

Tour Report by Junichi

Hello, my name is Junichi Matsumoto.
I will be your guide on this occasion. With warm hospitality, I will do my best to help you fully enjoy and appreciate the charm of Japan.

Before becoming a guide, I worked for the Kumamoto Prefectural Government and retired in March 2023. From 2003 to 2005, I was stationed in Montana, USA, which has a sister-state relationship with Kumamoto. During that time, I actively interacted with the local community together with my family, which gave me valuable cross-cultural experiences.

I am an easygoing person who quickly builds a friendly relationship with international guests. With a sincere smile and attentive care, I always strive to provide tours that are warm, enjoyable, and memorable. It would be my great pleasure to help you make unforgettable memories during your stay in Japan.

Request Booking

Jul 24, 2026
mariopV3953VG
Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Amazing tour by an amazing guide
Junichi, our guide,…

Jun 16, 2026
andreabL155TS
Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Nagaski day tour
Junichi was a great tour guide. He met us…

Jun 14, 2026
Wander45660599315
Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Amazing tour of Nagasaki with Junichi!
We had a wonderful tour with…

May 16, 2026
partel_12
Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
Excellent Guide Junichi
Junichi was excellent guide very enthusiastic in…

August, 2026

Yokohama Customized Half-Day Tour

Yokohama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

April, 2026

Tour Itinerary

10:30 Hotel meet
→10:45 Sankeien Garden
→12:00 Visit Chinatown, Kanteibyo Temple, Yokohama Mazu Temple
→12:45 Lunch at Yokohama World Porters
→13:45 Red Brick Warehouse
→14:30 Return to hotel

Title: What Is a Private Yokohama Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Sankeien Garden and Chinatown The guests were visitors from North America on their first trip to Japan. They had just arrived early in the morning, and despite being tired, they kindly walked a great deal with me. At Sankeien Garden, they asked enthusiastic questions about the traditional Japanese houses set within nature, and we happened to come across a pre-wedding photo shoot, where they were deeply moved by the beauty of the kimono and were even able to take a photo of the bride. We took a taxi to Chinatown, but since the guests wanted to try riding a Japanese train, we hopped on one. As they had requested in advance that they wanted to try Japanese fluffy pancakes, I had found a shop beforehand and was able to guide them there smoothly. They were thrilled by the fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth pancakes, and one of the guests enjoyed a four-layer stack!

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

Transportation cost per person

No.	Transportation	Route	Fare
Section 1	Train	Motomachi-Chukagai～Bashamichi	200JPY
Total			200JPY

Tour Report by Yuki

Hello, I’m Yukie Tachibana, national licensed tour guide living in Yokohama with my family. Please call me Yuki. I have been working as a tour guide for 5years mainly around Tokyo, Kanagawa, for example, Hakone, Kamakura, Yokohama and Kawasaki. I have had an experience of attending a lot of foreign visitors from all over the world in both private and group tours for sightseeing and business in one to multi-days. I’m able to arrange the tour for you, so please feel free to ask me your favorite plan in Japan as to spot, food and some activities. I like to see Buddhist statues in temples so I’d like to introduce our history and culture. Also because I like Japanese animation and character, and animals, I can take you to some shops for the animation and animal cafes that are so popular among tourists. Looking forward to seeing you soon and share wonderful time in Japan! Thank you.

Request Booking

May 1, 2026
444CraigH
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
Tokyo in a day from Yokohama
We had a great…

Apr 16, 2026
Adele P
Tripadvisor review: Yokohama 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Lovely Yokohama!
We had a lovely day in Yokohama with Yukie…

Oct 17, 2025
LeslieS1560
Intro to Tokyo
Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Yuki was awesome. She reached out right after we…

Jun 27, 2025
L
L3151LVdavidl
Amazing Kamakura Tour with Yukie
Tripadvisor review: Kamakura 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
We had an amazing tour with…

August, 2026

Category: Uncategorized