Category: Uncategorized

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Hakone-Yumoto

    Kanagawa in One Day: Hakone-Yumoto

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00   Meet at Odawara Station. Store luggage in coin lockers, purchase Hakone Free Pass
    • 11:27-13:30 Travel to Owakudani (Hakone Tozan Railway, Cable Car, Ropeway) 
    •      Due to an accident on the Odakyu Line, the travel time to Hakone-Yumoto was significantly delayed beyond schedule.
    • 13:30-13:50 Explore Owakudani. Take photos, purchase black eggs
    • 13:55-14:25 Travel (Ropeway) Over 10 minutes of waiting occurred due to congestion at the boarding area
    • 14:30-15:00 Board pirate ship, disembark at Hakone-machi Port
    • 15:05-15-30 Break at Hakone-machi. Coffee break
    • 15:35-16:25 Travel to Hakone-Yumoto (Bus)
    • 16:30-16:50 Shopping at Hakone-Yumoto
    • 16:56-17:10 Travel to Odawara on Hakone Tozan Railway
    • 17:15   Tour ends in front of the coin lockers

    Title: What's a Private Day Trip from Tokyo to Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Due to a delay caused by an accident on a private railway line (which also affected the Hakone mountain railway) and heavier-than-expected crowds, the tour could not proceed on the shortest planned schedule, but because I had prepared several backup plans just in case, I was able to carry out the tour without causing the guests any worry. The guests told me that seeing Mount Fuji was the main goal of this tour, but since clouds had gathered from the morning, I was quite concerned. However, while at Owakudani and aboard the pirate ship, Mount Fuji became clearly visible through a break in the clouds at Hakonemachi Port, and the guests were very delighted. After the tour ended, the guests headed to Kyoto on the 18:07 bullet train departing from Odawara. Since the forecast predicted clear skies around the Mishima area in the evening, I told them that Mount Fuji would be visible from the window on the right side in the direction of travel of the bullet train before we parted. Afterward, I received a message via a messaging app, along with photos, saying they had enjoyed a wonderful view. I was relieved as a guide that everyone's goal had been achieved.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free Pass6000~06,000JPY
    Total6,000JPY

    Hi everyone! I’m Atsushi.
    Born in the historic fishing port of Shiogama in Miyagi Prefecture and raised in Tokyo and Kanagawa, I’ve spent my life immersed in Japanese culture.
    During my six years in the countryside as a university student, I fell in love with hiking and visiting temples.
    After graduating with a master’s degree in agricultural science, I spent 40 years in R&D at a food manufacturing company before transitioning from part-time guiding to becoming a full-time professional tour guide at the end of 2025.
    My true passion lies in Japan’s rich culinary and sake traditions.
    I specialize in FIT tours around Tokyo and Hakone, and I even lead sumo culture tours!
    I’m dedicated to making your journey truly unforgettable, and I look forward to helping you get the absolute most out of your stay in Japan.
    I can’t wait to meet you!

    Jul 27, 2026
    25stephn
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Highly recommend this tour!
    Atsushi was an absolutely phenomenal…

    Jul 23, 2026
    melanierK3084ZH
    Tripadvisor review: Asakusa & Yanaka Local Street Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Wonderful Senso-ji tour
    Atsushi was a wonderful guide! My…

    May 30, 2026
    M3248YQLinda
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Off the Beaten Path 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Introduction to Tokyo
    I was travelling with my…

    Apr 18, 2026
    BrightonKennedys
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Half-day in Tokyo
    We had a great half-day tour of Tokyo with…

  • Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hiroshima Station→10:20 To Miyajima by JR and ferry→11:10 Visit Itsukushima Shrine and Daigan-ji Temple→13:10 To Peace Memorial Park via World Heritage Sea Route→14:00 Atomic Bomb Dome, Memorial Monument for Mobilized Students, Rest House, Children's Peace Monument, Flame of Peace, Memorial Cenotaph for the Atomic Bomb Victims, Peace Memorial Museum Museum Shop→16:00 Arrange taxi in front of Peace Memorial Park, see guests off in the taxi and disband

    What Is a Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Throughout the tour, we discussed the abstract yet essential question of "What do you think peace is?" The guests were very keen to ask questions about history, perhaps hoping to share values with me as someone who knows the tragedy of Hiroshima. They quoted several passages from scripture to support the views I shared about peace, while listening attentively to our conversation. There were a few changes along the way, but I was glad the tour finished smoothly and on time. Note: I forgot to obtain the receipt for the World Heritage Sea Route from Miyajima to the Peace Memorial Park, so it could not be included.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSaka~Hiroshima240JPY
    Section 2TrainHiroshima~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 3OtherMiyajimaguchi~Miyajima100JPY
    Total760JPY

    Hi there! Let’s Discover True Hiroshima Together!

    Hey! I’m HAYATO, and I’m super excited to be your guide in Hiroshima! With about 20 years of living in this amazing place, I can’t wait to share all its hidden treasures, fun stories, and unique culture with you.

    Whether you’re into beautiful sights, tasty local food, or fascinating history, I’m here to make sure you have a great time. Together, we’ll uncover both the well-known spots and the little secrets that make Hiroshima truly special.

    Let’s make some unforgettable memories while having lots of fun! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or if you’d like to chat about what we can do together.

    Can’t wait to meet you!

    Apr 13, 2026
    Robin_S
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Great educational tour!
    Hayato to was a terrific guide.…

    Apr 9, 2026
    bonoc2026
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Thank you Hayato!
    The tour was amazing, or tour…

    Mar 9, 2026
    stuartgiese_g
    Great tour
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Had a great day with Hayato his knowledge…

    Oct 7, 2025
    april_m
    Hiroshima with Hayato!
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hayato was a great tour guide.…

  • Yamaguchi in One Day: Former Mitsui Club & Former Moji Customs

    Yamaguchi in One Day: Former Mitsui Club & Former Moji Customs

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:45 Meet at Mojiko Pier No.1
    • 10:50 Former Mitsui Club
    •    Mojiko Station
    • 11:43 Mekari Shrine
    • 11:55 Pedestrian Tunnel
    • 12:10 Lunch
    • Mimosusogawa Park
    • 13:55 Akama Shrine
    • 15:30 Former Osaka Shosen
    • Blue Wing Moji
    • Mojiko Retro Observation Room
    • 16:00 Former Moji Customs
    • Banana Man
    • 16:45 Disband at Mojiko Pier No.1

    What Is a Private Cruise Port Tour in Kitakyushu Like? A Licensed Guide's Report According to the Kitakyushu City website, the meeting time specified by the guests was set before the ship's arrival, so I confirmed with the guests in advance, but in the end the tour started 45 minutes later than the scheduled meeting time. Cruise ships sometimes have their arrival times changed at the last minute, and while travel companies handling group tours seem to receive advance notice, this is not reflected on the website, which means individual private guides cannot know until they arrive on site — a persistent source of concern. The weather was unfortunately cloudy. The guests gave generous applause to an unexpected live jazz performance, and they seemed interested in the explanations of the leading lights unique to the strait and the tidal current tower.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusMojiko Station Front/Nishitetsu Bus~Kanmon Tunnel Pedestrian Entrance/Nishitetsu Bus280JPY
    Section 2BusMimosusogawa/Sanden Kotsu~Akama Shrine Front/Sanden Kotsu230JPY
    Section 3FerryShimonoseki Karato Port~Mojiko400JPY
    Total910JPY

    Hello everyone .
    Please call me Peko.
    I’m National government licensed Guide Interpreter.
    I like travelling, Japanese archery, and tea ceremony.
    I visited 17countries.
    Also I lived in Netherlands for a year and three months.

    local people always showed me their hospitality. So, I think it’s my turn to show visitors to Japan the spirit of hospitality.
    Currently, I live in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka.

    Fukuoka has been an important place of defense and trade since ancient times, because it is close to the continent,
    So, Fukuoka is blessed with historic, cultural sites, as well as beautiful scenery and fresh seafood.

    Especially, channel between Yamaguchi and Moji is must see spot for you.
    If you come to Mojiko, I highly recommend the “Shimonoseki & Moji Port Full Day Tour”.
    Kanmon Strait round tour is so fascinating, varied and exciting for you.
    You can enjoy breathtaking scenery ,historical places, walking under the sea tounnel, ferry ride, bus, stream of first current and gourmet.
    Let’s enjoy Kanmon with me!

    Also Kitakyushu city got the first prize of “New three Major Night Views of Japan in 2023.
    We can see and enjoy panoramic night view from mountain.
    Why don’t you go around and enjoy Fukuoka with me.
    Endless discover is waiting for you.

    Apr 6, 2026
    Sandra_V
    Viator review: Kitakyushu 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Peko was delightful,…
    Peko was delightful, knowledgeable and very informative. She planned…

    Mar 27, 2026
    junk1961
    Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Hakata Private Tour Licensed Guide& Vehicle
    Great day in Fukuoka
    Excellent day in Fukuoka with our guide…

    May 25, 2025
    Susan_L
    Peko was a very nice &…
    Viator review: Fukuoka Full-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Peko was a very nice…

    Mar 20, 2025
    Florencio_J
    I had a great time! My…
    Viator review: Kitakyushu Half-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    I had a great time! My…

  • Miyagi in One Day: Aoba-dori & Matsushima Kaigan

    Miyagi in One Day: Aoba-dori & Matsushima Kaigan

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hotel Sendai
    • 10:28~11:08 Aoba-dori → Matsushima Kaigan, travel by train
    • 12:00 Matsushima Sightseeing Boat
    • 13:00~14:00 Lunch @ Taikan-tei / Iroha
    • 14:00~14:45 @ Zuiganji Temple approach ~ stroll around Entsuin
    • 15:10~15:51 Matsushima Kaigan → Aoba-dori
    • 16:00 Disband in front of the hotel

    Title: What Is a Private Matsushima Tour Like for Guests with Accessibility Needs? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Matsushima. When the group appeared in the hotel lobby, one member arrived in an electric wheelchair. I was momentarily surprised, but I explained the situation to the representative of the group: "Zuiganji cannot be entered directly by wheelchair, but I can take you as close to the approach path as possible. Entsuin has some steps on the stone paving in the garden, so let's decide whether to go in after you've seen it in person." The group agreed. As an alternative, I suggested Kanrantei, since it has a ramp at the back of the building that allows entry. We decided to proceed with the original plan as far as possible and switch to the alternative if it became difficult. We moved slowly and used wider roads on the way to the station, but an unexpected challenge was the gap when boarding the train. Since the Senseki Line switched to one-person operation in March, you normally have to go and call a station attendant for assistance, but the guests said it was fine and we managed to board with a bit of effort. When getting off at Matsushima, they exited backward, so to avoid inconveniencing other passengers as much as possible, I got off first and stood in front of them, signaling to the driver from the half-open door to indicate our position. At the sightseeing boat, the head of the boat company was at the ticket window, so I greeted him as usual and mentioned, "Today I have a guest using a wheelchair." The staff prepared a ramp with fewer steps, which made boarding much easier. Since Godaido also has stairs and landing there was difficult, we moved to a spot where a nice photo could be taken and asked another tourist to take a picture. For lunch, since there was a request to try conger eel, we passed by a few candidate restaurants and chose one with a variety of options. The seats were in a good position overlooking Godaido, which was a nice touch. I consulted with the group's representative about the next plan, and we decided on the cave-side approach path of Zuiganji and Entsuin. The cherry blossoms were still beautifully in bloom, and the group seemed very satisfied. At Entsuin, they looked up from in front of the steps of the Sankeiden, and some of the guests went to see the mausoleum. They took their time viewing the garden, and since the stone paving was fairly wide, they were able to see it after all. There were only a few stops, but the group took many photos of the flowers and seemed very pleased.

    Transportation cost per person

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

    Hello! I’m Riko, your local guide. During the week, I work at a local university, but on weekends, I love to guide visitors like you. This year(2024) marks my 6th year as a guide, and I’m thrilled to continue sharing the beauty of Japan with you.
    I’m a certified Sake Navigator, so I have a wealth of knowledge about Japanese sake. Additionally, I’m well-versed in the gourmet scene of Sendai, Shiogama, and Matsushima, allowing me to tailor your tour to your culinary preferences!
    I look forward to creating a memorable tour experience for you, full of fun and lasting memories of Japan. Thanks for choosing me as your guide!

    May 10, 2026
    Nate_K
    Viator review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fun Day in the bay!
    Be ready to walk briskly…

    Apr 30, 2026
    Tanakainmaui
    Tripadvisor review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Riko-san is the best guide!
    I originally booked with TripAdvisor,…

    Mar 31, 2026
    NHDBuilder
    Tripadvisor review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    GO WITH “RIKO” FROM JAPAN GUIDE AGENCY
    This is our…

    Oct 3, 2025
    P
    Peggy_M
    This was a great tour with Riko
    Viator review: Sendai / Matsushima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Riko was…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Station & Peace Park Museum

    Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Station & Peace Park Museum

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 10:08 Depart Hiroshima Station
    • 10:40 Miyajimaguchi
    • 10:50 JR Ferry
    • 11:00 Arrive at Miyajima
    • 11:20 Lunch
    • 12:20 Visit Itsukushima Shrine, historical buildings, etc.
    • 14:20 To Peace Memorial Park via the World Heritage Sea Route
    • 15:05 Peace Park Museum
    • 16:30 Peace Park
    • 17:30 To Hiroshima Station by taxi
    • 18:00 Finish assisting with the purchase of return tickets to Shin-Osaka and end the tour

    What Is a Private Miyajima and Peace Memorial Park Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They were a pleasure to guide, with contrasting yet complementary personalities that made for a wonderful group. Both at Miyajima and at the Peace Memorial Park, they listened to my explanations with great sincerity and asked thoughtful, in-depth questions, making it a meaningful time for me as well. What left a particular impression on me was a comment reflecting on the current political situation in North America and the wider world — that they felt it was best to avoid political discussions at this place.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2OtherMiyajima Port~Peace Park Motoyasu Pier1,200JPY
    Total1,620JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Shinjuku Gyoen

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Shinjuku Gyoen

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:45 Meet @ Mandarin Oriental
    • 13:30 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 15:00 The National Art Center, Tokyo
    • 16:45 Dismissal @ Tokyo Midtown

    Title: What's a Private Tokyo Tour Like After a Cruise? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shinjuku Gyoen and Roppongi The guest was a solo traveler visiting from North America. After a [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) tour in late March, the guest boarded a cruise ship and arrived in Tokyo this morning. The hotel room was not yet ready, so the guest was waiting alone in the lobby. We hit it off from the very beginning, chatting enthusiastically about Aerosmith. At Shinjuku Gyoen, the guest was very pleased with the late-blooming cherry blossoms as well as the beautiful azaleas. The guest had originally hoped to visit art museums, but since many are closed on Mondays, I suggested the National Art Center, Tokyo, which the guest agreed to. The special exhibition, YBA & Beyond, was even more impressive than expected and was very well received. As the guest had deep expertise in art, I felt humbled to be guided in return. Having arrived that very morning, the guest was understandably tired, so I saw the guest into a taxi in Roppongi bound for the hotel. It was also nice that the guest could experience the contrast between Roppongi and Asakusa before leaving Japan.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayMitsukoshimae~Shinjuku-gyoemmae210JPY
    Section 2SubwayKokuritsu-kyogijo~Roppongi180JPY
    Total390JPY

    Hello! My name is Hideki Maruyama. I was born in Osaka and raised in the Greater Tokyo area. I obtained my National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate in February 2016.
    I spent 23 years working at a leading Japanese automotive company, including 7 years posted overseas. I then worked for a German premium automotive manufacturer for 13 years, followed by 6 years as an advisor to a British energy company. Through these roles at global corporations, I developed and refined key skills such as:
    1. Cross-cultural communication
    2. A deep understanding of business elites and affluent customers
    3. The ability to deliver impactful and impressive presentations in English
    In addition to my regular duties, I often served as an interpreter for top executives during meetings with foreign government officials. I also had opportunities to introduce aspects of Japan—such as our national character and consumer preferences—to leadership teams in both the German and British companies.
    As a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding guests from a wide range of countries especially after the pandemic, including the US, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Norway, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

    Jun 14, 2026
    tiffany_w
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Phenomenal experiance
    Hideki san was an amazing guide. He was incredibly knowledgable…

    Jun 13, 2026
    Joshua_A
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The Best Guide I Had in Japan
    Hideki was, without question, my…

    May 2, 2026
    Bruce G
    Our guide (Hideki san) was a master. It was a rainy day and he suggested a new plan in anticipation…

    Apr 30, 2026
    johnbD9596UO
    Lovely Private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I had a great…

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

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

    Tour Itinerary

    • Meet at 10:00 @ JR Himeji Station
    • 10:45 @ Mount Shosha, Engyoji Temple
    • 13:15 @ Koko-en Garden
    • 13:45 @ Himeji Castle
    • Disband at 15:45 @ In front of Himeji Castle

    What Is a Private Himeji Castle and Engyoji Temple Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who seemed to have a strong interest in Japan and asked many questions. We moved at a relaxed pace throughout the tour. The guests listened attentively to the guide's explanations. The cherry blossoms at each spot were past their peak, but the guests enjoyed both the falling petals and the fresh green leaves emerging among the blossoms. At Engyoji Temple, the guests took an interest and even rang the large temple bell. I presented a handmade drawstring pouch as a gift, which was very well received. We proceeded at a slow pace, and even the steep stairs inside Himeji Castle were safely toured with support within the group. After finishing the visit to Himeji Castle, the final spot, the group felt tired, so we decided to take a taxi back to Himeji Station. We parted at the taxi stand with about 15 minutes remaining.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherShoshazan Sanjo Station~Maniden Hall500JPY
    Total500JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo: Asakusa & Shibuya

    Tokyo: Asakusa & Shibuya

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00: Meet at Hyatt Regency lobby
    • 09:30 Asakusa
    • 11:00 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 12:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 14:00 Takeshita Street
    • 14:40 Shibuya
    • 17:00 Tour ends

    What Is a Full-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji and Harajuku The plan was agreed upon in advance, and we met as scheduled. Every visit location and time setting proceeded smoothly as planned. The guests listened attentively to the explanations at each location. The weather was fine, and I believe it was a good tour. However, since the guests had only arrived from North America the previous night, they appeared quite tired by the afternoon. For lunch, the guests wanted to eat tuna sushi, so they enjoyed sushi at a shop in Tsukiji famous for its tuna, and in Harajuku they relaxed at a matcha cafe of their choice.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTochomae~Asakusa330JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Higashi-ginza220JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukiji~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Total760JPY

    Welcome to Japan!
    My name is Takeshi Yamada, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter based in the vibrant city of Yokohama, Kanagawa.
    Born and raised in Minamiuonuma City, Niigata Prefecture, renowned for its exquisite rice and sake, I deeply appreciate Japan’s culinary delights. I love sharing laughs, exploring diverse cultures and histories, and playing tennis.
    I specialize in guiding tours around Yokohama, Kamakura, Fuji-Hakone, Tokyo, and the surrounding Kanto areas. With years of experience in multinational corporations, I excel in English communication and making foreign visitors feel at home.
    Whether you’re interested in historical landmarks, authentic cultural experiences, savoring Japanese cuisine, enjoying lively Izakaya spots, or soaking in urban energy, my tours are tailored to your interests. I am committed to providing exceptional service, ensuring each guest receives personalized attention and creates unforgettable memories.
    My greatest joy is seeing my guests fall in love with Japan, taking home cherished memories and a deeper understanding of this beautiful country.
    I look forward to meeting you and being your friendly, knowledgeable guide.

    See you soon!

    Jun 5, 2026
    cathywB8167WE
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Great 8 hour tour of Tokyo
    Takeshi was great with…

    May 13, 2026
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  • Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour

    Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:55 Meet at hotel 9:28 Gora Station By cable car to Sounzan 9:40 Then by ropeway to Owakudani 10:10 By ropeway to Togendai 10:45 Pirate ship Motohakone Port 11:25 Lake Ashi shore Hakone Shrine By bus 12:30 To Hakone Checkpoint Lunch at Donburi Chaya Maruyama Bussan Checkpoint entrance Stroll 14:15 By bus from Hakonemachi Port Via Ninotaira 15:00 Hakone Open-Air Museum 16:00 From the Open-Air Museum By train to Gora Station 16:05 Disband at the station

    What's a Private Day Tour of Hakone from Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a warm and close group visiting from Europe. I researched online and created a congratulatory board in their language, which was very well received. Because of the poor weather, I had thought the long-awaited view of Mount Fuji would not be possible, but although it was hazy, we managed to see it and the guests took many photos, which was a relief. The Somei-Yoshino cherry blossoms were already over, and they had been disappointed in Tokyo, but in Hakone the botan cherry blossoms were in full bloom at the Hakone Open-Air Museum, and they took many photos there as well. At Hakone Shrine, I talked about Shinto and Buddhism as background knowledge for their upcoming visit to Kyoto. They were surprised by the presentation at a local products shop and bought some souvenirs. At a rice bowl restaurant, they enjoyed Japanese cuisine, and we spent a delightful day together.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOdawara Station~Odawara Station6,000JPY
    Total6,000JPY

    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!!
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    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
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  • Kanagawa in One Day: Owakudani & Hakone Shrine

    Kanagawa in One Day: Owakudani & Hakone Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet at the hotel
    • 11:30 Owakudani
    • 12:30 From Togendai to Motohakone Port
    • 13:00 Lunch: Motohakone Port
    • 14:30 Hakone Shrine
    • 16:15: Take a taxi from Motohakone Port back to the hotel and end the tour

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Hakone Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They had stayed a few nights in Tokyo before coming to Hakone, and after one night here they planned to continue to Kyoto and Osaka before returning to Tokyo for a further stay. For accommodation, they had researched carefully and found and booked a unique hotel, which turned out to be in a rather deep, mountainous part of Hakone. We first took the cable car up to Owakudani. They were delighted to catch even a small glimpse of the summit of Mount Fuji. They had also researched the famous "black eggs" in advance, tried one, and happily took a group photo together in front of the monument. At Hakone Shrine, I explained the basics of Shinto and its influence on Japanese culture. They were moved by the solemn atmosphere and were pleased that it would serve as helpful background for their upcoming trip to the Kansai region. The guests showed a strong interest in Japanese culture and history and asked many questions throughout the day.

    Hello and welcome to Tokyo!

    I have been working for business with American companies for many years. I have many experiences guiding customers from around the world in Japan and taking Japanese customers to the USA and Europe.

    I now have a national license as a guiding interpreter, and I want to introduce the unique gigantic city of Tokyo and the traditional Japanese culture, which is not shown in the guidebooks, to people worldwide who are interested in it. In addition, I want to introduce various Japanese foods you can enjoy only in Japan.
    Unique experiences such as the Sumo Training Viewing and Tea Ceremony are optionally available.
    Depending on your preference and itinerary, I can guide you in Tokyo, Kamakura, and Hakone so that you can enjoy your time in Japan.

    Jul 26, 2026
    Kevin_B
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    Ashish_L
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    Lindsey_W
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    Our guide, Atsushi, was…
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