Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Nezu Shrine & Imperial Palace East Gardens

    Tokyo in One Day: Nezu Shrine & Imperial Palace East Gardens

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hotel
    • 10:45 Nezu Shrine
    • 11:45 Korakuen
    • 12:50 Akihabara
    • 14:10 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 15:55 Shinjuku 3D Cat, Godzilla Building
    • 16:05 Disband in front of Shinjuku Godzilla Building

    What Can You See on a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather was good and the guests already had a Suica card, so the tour proceeded smoothly. Nezu Shrine was holding its azalea festival, so it was very crowded. There were many festival stalls, and the guests seemed to enjoy browsing the various shops. At Koishikawa Korakuen Garden, they enjoyed the wisteria, early-blooming irises, and the fresh green maple leaves. In Akihabara, they did not stop at any shops but spent some time at a hamburger restaurant. The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace were also crowded, but the guests took their time enjoying the garden. Originally, I had planned to guide them along Takeshita Street afterward, but since they had already been there the previous day, I showed them Shinjuku instead before ending the tour. A tip was received.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassShibuya~Nezu700JPY
    Section 2Free PassTodaimae~Korakuen0JPY
    Section 3TrainSuidobashi~Akihabara160JPY
    Section 4Free PassSuehirocho~Takebashi0JPY
    Section 5Free PassOtemachi~Shinjuku0JPY
    Total860JPY

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…

  • Gifu in Half a Day: Takayama Jinya & Takayama Cultural Center

    Gifu in Half a Day: Takayama Jinya & Takayama Cultural Center

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Starting the tour at the meeting point
    • 9:10 Takayama Jinya
    • 10:20 Sanmachi Suji
    • 11/10 Miyagawa Morning Market
    • 11:30 Sakurayama Hachiman-gu Shrine
    • 11:50 Higashiyama Walking Course
    • 12:30 Takayama Cultural Center
    • 13:00 Conclusion of the tour at the last site

    What's a Private Walking Tour of Takayama Like? A Licensed Guide's Report After visiting Takayama Jinya, the guests saw the commemorative stamps at the rest area inside the facility and mentioned that they wanted an accordion-fold notebook, so I guided them to the nearest specialty washi (Japanese paper) shop, where they purchased a goshuincho (stamp book). After that, we visited the old townscape, the morning market, and Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine. The guide then mentioned that a tea ceremony hosted by a local citizens' group was being held that day, and I proposed either heading into the float exhibition hall next or first visiting some of the temples along the Higashiyama walking path before joining the tea ceremony. As the guests wished to attend the tea ceremony, I guided them there. The tea ceremony venue was a facility built on the former residence site of a chief retainer of Takayama Castle, known as the Takayama Densho-kan. After viewing the tea room and the restored garden, the guests took part in the tea ceremony. Afterward, they enjoyed interacting with the local participants dressed in kimono, including taking photographs together.

    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Gotokuji Temple & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Gotokuji Temple & Asakusa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet the guest at the hotel
    • 11:30 Hachiko statue and scramble crossing in front of Shibuya Station
    • 12:00 Soba restaurant at Gotokuji shopping street
    • 12:50 Gotokuji Temple
    • 13:40 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:00 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 16:20 Asakusa
    • 17:00 Tour ends

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shibuya, Gotokuji, Meiji Shrine, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Asakusa The guests were a group visiting from North America. Their arriving flight was delayed, so I received a request to change the tour time and pushed it back by one hour. We first traveled by subway to Shibuya Station, where we took photos in front of the Hachiko statue and the scramble crossing. Next, we moved to the shopping street near Gotokuji and had lunch at a soba restaurant. They enjoyed udon and praised it highly as delicious. At Gotokuji, they took many photos in front of the numerous cat figurines and seemed very satisfied. Next, at Meiji Shrine, I gave an overview of Japanese history, explained the difference between shrines and temples, and talked about Emperor Meiji and the shrine, then explained key points while walking along the approach and offered prayers at the main hall. We traveled by subway to Shinjuku Gyoen, where they strolled while admiring the beautifully maintained Japanese garden and rested at a tea house. We then traveled by subway to Asakusa, where I first explained the origins of Sensoji Temple, the Kaminarimon Gate, the Nakamise shopping street, and the surrounding buildings at the culture and tourism center. After that, we strolled along the approach from the Kaminarimon Gate, buying ningyo-yaki along the way, and the tour concluded after offering prayers at the main hall.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyobashi (Tokyo)~Shibuya210JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya~Gotokuji260JPY
    Section 3TrainGotokuji~Meiji-jingumae330JPY
    Section 4SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Shinjuku-sanchome180JPY
    Section 5SubwayShinjuku-gyoemmae~Asakusa260JPY
    Total1,240JPY

    I am a certified guide-interpreter based in Tokyo.
    I was born and raised in Tokyo, so I am familiar with Tokyo and its surrounding areas. Please leave anything related to the Tokyo area to me.
    Tokyo is not only full of Japanese charm but also has many unique aspects.
    The always-bustling Tsukiji Outer Market conveys Japan’s food culture.
    Asakusa conveys Japanese traditions and culture through old temples, shrines and long-established stores.
    Shibuya spreads Japanese pop culture.
    You can immerse yourself in history and culture in the quiet natural surroundings such as the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace or Meiji Shrine.
    Tokyo is a treasure trove of attractions for travelers. Please come and experience the wonderful Tokyo with me.

    Jul 8, 2026
    Maria H
    Tokyo an amazing city
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    First time in this…

    Jul 4, 2026
    davidsM6670MT
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent professional and attentive Tokyo Tour
    Shigeru was extremely professional, knowledgeable and…

    Jun 14, 2026
    Q3961PBsaraf
    History, Culture and Local Insight
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful half-day tour of…

    Jun 7, 2026
    abhinavg948
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Shigeru is an outstanding guide for an outstanding Tokyo tour
    Shigeru is…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.9.00 Hotel
    • 2.9.10-10.20 Imperial Palace East Garden
    • 3.10.50-11.40 Tsukiji Honganji Temple & Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 4.12.10-12.50 Lunch at Asakusa Gozen Soba Kaminarimon Tagawa
    • 5.12.50-13.30 Asakusa
    • 6.14.10-15.00 Meijijingu Shrine

    What Is a Private Tokyo Final-Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America on a trip marking a special milestone. Their journey had taken them through several cities in Asia as well as Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Mount Fuji, with today being the final day. The guests are big fans of Disneyland and had visited the park in Urayasu for three consecutive days up until yesterday. One of the guests shared that a family member had immigrated from Europe and later changed the family name to a more American style, explaining that changing one's name to begin a new life was quite common at the time in order to avoid discrimination and exclusion. The conversation also touched on real estate, and the guests mentioned observing land purchases by overseas buyers in North America. The guests told me, "Japan was very impressive. The people are kind, the country is clean, and it deserves respect." I responded that I believe the Japanese fondness for cleanliness is influenced by the purification culture of Shinto. When asked why this differs from Chinese culture, I explained that China is vast and its culture developed as a mixture of many diverse traditions, whereas Japan, as an island nation with limited foreign influence, developed a unique culture under its historical policy of national seclusion. At the end, the guests said, "Today was a wonderful tour. If we ever come to Tokyo again, we will be sure to contact you." It was a truly rewarding day.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOnarimon~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTakebashi~Tsukiji Market290JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukiji~Asakusa290JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa~Meiji-jingumae260JPY
    Total1,020JPY

    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…

  • Hokkaido in One Day: Nijo Market & Shiroi Koibito Park

    Hokkaido in One Day: Nijo Market & Shiroi Koibito Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up at Hotel
    • 10:25 Nijo Market
    • 10:50 Odori Park
    • 11:40 Maruyama Park (Hokkaido Shrine)
    • 12:55 Lunch @ Maruyama Class
    • 14:25 Shiroi Koibito Park
    • 16:10 Tour ends at Cocono Susukino

    What Is a Private Sapporo Spring Sightseeing Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests mentioned that the previous day had been windy and difficult to walk in, but that this day was calm, sunny, and very pleasant. Because it was the first day of the Golden Week holidays and the timing was ideal for the cherry blossom viewing at Maruyama Park, a great many people had come, including not only travelers but also local residents. At Maruyama Park it was possible to see both plum and cherry blossoms, and the guests seemed very satisfied. At Maruyama Class, where we had lunch, there were considerably more customers than usual, so we had to wait a little while before being seated. When I guided the guests through Nijo Market, they showed great interest in the fresh seafood and said they wanted to return the following morning to try it themselves.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOdori~Maruyama Park210JPY
    Section 2SubwayMaruyama Park~Miyanosawa250JPY
    Section 3SubwayMiyanosawa~Odori290JPY
    Total750JPY

    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…

  • Nagasaki Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Nagasaki Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Nagasaki Station → 11:15 Nishizaka Hill (in front of the 26 Martyrs Memorial Museum) → 12:00 Glover Garden → 13:00 In front of Oura Cathedral → 13:30 Shinchi Chinatown (lunch) → 15:00 Atomic Bomb Museum, Hypocenter, Peace Park → 16:30 One-Legged Torii → 17:00 Nagasaki Station

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Nagasaki Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests and I stayed in touch beforehand via a messaging app and arranged to meet at the ticket gate of Nagasaki Station. We met smoothly, purchased one-day tram passes at the tourist information center, and began the tour. Since some of the guests followed the Catholic faith, I first guided them on foot from Nagasaki Station to Nishizaka Hill, where the Twenty-Six Martyrs Memorial Museum stands. At this spot, I explained that many people, including the Twenty-Six Martyrs, were martyred here. They did not enter the museum. We walked to the tram stop in front of Nagasaki Station and took the tram to Ishibashi Station, then guided them into Glover Garden from the upper entrance. After Glover Garden, in front of Oura Cathedral, I explained the "discovery of the hidden Christians." We then walked to the Oura Cathedral tram stop, took the tram to Shinchi Chinatown Station, and had lunch (champon) in Chinatown. After lunch, we took the tram to the Atomic Bomb Museum stop and guided them to the Atomic Bomb Museum, the hypocenter, and Peace Park. From Peace Park, we took the tram from the Peace Park stop to the University Hospital stop and guided them to the One-Legged Torii (the second torii of Sanno Shrine). I would have liked to guide them to Sanno Shrine and the atomic-bombed camphor tree as well, but since one of the guests had some difficulty walking and preferred not to go, we walked to the Urakami Station tram stop, took the tram to the Nagasaki Station area, and ended the tour at Nagasaki Station. This time the group consisted of the guests. The group leader had lived in Japan for over a decade from childhood through the teenage years due to family circumstances and spoke Japanese remarkably well. One of the guests had trouble with a knee and found walking somewhat difficult. For example, at the One-Legged Torii, they mentioned that there was no need to see the atomic-bombed camphor tree at Sanno Shrine at the top of the stairs, so the whole group decided not to go, including the leader who had wanted to see it. The leader appeared to be very considerate of the others, and I conducted the tour while keeping this in mind.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherNagasaki Station area, etc.~Ishibashi, etc.600JPY
    Total600JPY

    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.

    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…

  • Osaka: at Dotonbori

    Osaka: at Dotonbori

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hilton Osaka
    • 10:30 at Osaka Castle (exterior only)
    • 12:00 at Dotonbori
    • 13:00 at Shinsaibashi (McDonald's, UNIQLO, GU)
    • 14:45 at Umeda Sky Building (including coffee break)
    • 16:15 Disband at Hilton Osaka

    Title: What Is a Private Shopping-Focused Day Tour in Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Asia. The pace of movement was relaxed and unhurried throughout the day. The guests seemed more interested in shopping than in sightseeing spots, and they thoroughly enjoyed shopping at Miraiza next to Osaka Castle and at UNIQLO and GU in Shinsaibashi. As they were a little hungry, they stopped at a fast-food restaurant in Shinsaibashi. In Dotonbori, they also enjoyed the soft-serve ice cream made famous by a popular street performance. Today's driver provided courteous service and smooth driving, making the journey very comfortable.

    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…

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Minatomirai Station & Motomachi-Chukagai Station

    Kanagawa in One Day: Minatomirai Station & Motomachi-Chukagai Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meeting place: The Westin Yokohama
    • 10:10 Depart Minatomirai Station
    • (Minatomirai Line)
    • Yokohama Station
    • (JR Yokosuka Line)
    • Kamakura Station
    • (Enoshima Electric Railway)
    • 11:00 Arrive Hase Station
    • Hase Kotoku-in Temple & Great Buddha of Kamakura
    • (Walk)
    • Hasedera Temple
    • 12:00 Depart Hase Station
    • (Enoshima Electric Railway)
    • 12:10 Arrive Kamakura Station
    • 12:20 Depart Kamakura Station (East Exit)/Keikyu Bus Stop
    • (Keikyu Bus)
    • 12:40 Jomyoji Bus Stop
    • Hokokuji Temple Hokokuji Temple
    • 13:00 Jomyoji Bus Stop
    • (Keikyu Bus)
    • 13:20 Arrive Kamakura Station (East Exit)/Keikyu Bus Stop
    • (Walk)
    • Kamakura Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
    • Komachi Street
    • Break: Café
    • 15:00 Depart Kamakura Station
    • (JR Yokosuka Line)
    • Yokohama Station
    • (Minatomirai Line)
    • 16:00 Arrive Motomachi-Chukagai Station
    • 16:00 Dismissal: Yokohama Chinatown Station

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Kamakura and Yokohama Chinatown Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. It was their first visit to Japan. They had arrived at Narita Airport the previous day and traveled by taxi to a hotel in Yokohama. The main purpose of this trip to Japan was an 11-day cruise around Japan departing from Yokohama Port the next day. After the cruise returned to Yokohama Port, they planned to stay in Tokyo for a while and do sightseeing in various places. For today, their request was: "We'd like to focus on Kamakura, and at the end please take us to Chinatown." Although it was cloudy, the weather was pleasant and even a bit warm, making for a comfortable tour. First, we went to Kamakura Station, and then took the Enoden line to Hase. Both the Enoden train and the approach road were extremely crowded with tourists. Along the way, I explained about "the history of Kamakura," "the history of Edo and Tokyo," "the feudal system," "the Meiji Restoration," and so on. I also explained "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." They had questions such as "Do all Japanese people believe in Buddhism?" and "What other religions do people follow?" We also went inside the Great Buddha, and they said, "Now I really understand how the Great Buddha was made." They also asked, "We're going to Nara too, so we'd like to see the Great Buddha in Nara. Which one is bigger? And which one was made first?" Both of them enjoy collecting "goshuin" (temple and shrine seal stamps) as a hobby, so they asked to have them stamped at each place we visited. We moved on to Hasedera Temple, where they remarked, "The garden within the temple is wonderful." We returned to Kamakura Station and took a bus to Hokokuji Temple. I explained "the history and current state of Hokokuji Temple." We strolled slowly through the bamboo grove within the temple. They said, "It's so calming and pleasant here," and "We're also planning to visit the bamboo grove in Kyoto." We took a bus back to Kamakura Station and walked along the approach road to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. I again explained "about Shinto" and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto," and also explained the "manner of worship" for each. We took photos in front of the sake barrels. We strolled slowly through the crowded streets. We also visited the Inari Shrine within the grounds. After that, we walked along the very crowded Komachi Street back to Kamakura Station. Via Yokohama Station, we headed to Motomachi-Chukagai Station. Their comments included: "I felt that Japan is very safe," "There is no trash on the streets," "There are no homeless people to be seen," and "Everyone is polite." We parted ways at Motomachi-Chukagai Station.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Trainみなとみらい~横浜200JPY
    Section 2Train横浜~鎌倉440JPY
    Section 3Train鎌倉~長谷(神奈川県)200JPY
    Section 4Train長谷(神奈川県)~鎌倉200JPY
    Section 5Train鎌倉駅(東口)/京急バス~浄明寺/京急バス240JPY
    Section 6Train浄明寺/京急バス~鎌倉駅(東口)/京急バス240JPY
    Section 7Train鎌倉~横浜440JPY
    Section 8Train横浜~元町・中華街230JPY
    Total2,190JPY

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
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    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
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  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari & Nishiki Market

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari & Nishiki Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Hotel Shijo Muromachi Meet
    • 9:20 Fushimi Inari
    • 10:30 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 11:40 Gion
    • 12:30 Nishiki Market

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: The guests came from Europe. They were both calm, cheerful, and gentle in manner, which gave me a very good impression as well. They had stayed in Tokyo and said they were simply exhausted by how crowded it was everywhere. In Kyoto too, there were crowds at every stop, and one of the guests seemed tired. They felt relieved by the quiet of the back streets of Gion. The guests were very fond of taking photographs and enjoyed shooting everywhere we went. Since they wanted to see mochi pounding, I took them to a shop demonstrating and selling freshly pounded mochi along the approach to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, which they were delighted with. Lately I have been receiving requests for less crowded sightseeing spots. I would like to work on putting together a route around the Genkoan area of Takagamine or near Shugakuin.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShijo (Kyoto Municipal)~Kyoto220JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 3TrainInari~Tofukuji150JPY
    Section 4BusTofukuji / Kyoto City Bus~Kiyomizu-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 5BusKiyomizu-michi / Kyoto City Bus~Gion / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total980JPY

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

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

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

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

    Mar 28, 2026
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    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
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  • Hokkaido in One Day: by chartered microbus & Hakodate Morning Market

    Hokkaido in One Day: by chartered microbus & Hakodate Morning Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at Hakodate Port Terminal
    • 8:45 Depart by chartered microbus
    • 9:00 Goryokaku Tower
    • 9:35 Goryokaku Park
    • 11:00 Former Soma Family Residence
    • 12:10 Lunch at a restaurant in the Motomachi district
    • 13:15 Shopping at Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse
    • 14:20 Visit Hakodate Morning Market
    • 14:35 End of tour

    Title: What Is a Private Cruise Day Tour of Hakodate Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America, arriving by cruise ship. One of the guests worked at a travel agency. They requested a minibus, so as usual I shared the vehicle arrangement website, but their budget was quite tight, and I was asked to find a reasonably priced bus. I searched for a local bus company in Hakodate and managed to find one that fit within the budget. In the morning it took a little time for them to disembark from the cruise ship, but after that everyone was punctual, which was very helpful. Because it was the weekend, Goryokaku was extremely crowded and it took some time to board the elevator. The cherry blossoms at Goryokaku were in full bloom, and the guests were delighted to take photos. At the former Soma Residence, the guests were impressed by the ingenuity of the traditional Japanese house. After shopping at the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse, we had a little time left, so we visited the morning market before ending the tour. We were blessed with good weather, and it turned out to be a comfortable and pleasant tour. The photo was taken at Goryokaku Park.

    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
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    Jul 23, 2026
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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…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
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