Category: Uncategorized

  • Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1 Hiroshima Station 7:30
    • 2 Miyajima  8:10
    • 3 Itsukushima Shrine  8:50
    • 4 Daisho-in Temple  9:50
    • 5 Cafe  10:50
    • 6 Omotesando  11:30
    • 7 Peace Park  13:30
    • 8 Peace Memorial Museum  14:30
    • 9 Dismissal  15:30

    What Is a Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Since I was able to meet the guests a little earlier than planned, we started the tour early. The guests had a very strong interest in Japan, particularly regarding the atomic bombing. On Miyajima, the group enjoyed the usual course of Itsukushima Shrine, Daishoin Temple, and lunch very much. They especially liked the deep-fried momiji manju, finding it delicious. They listened attentively to the explanations at each of the monuments in the Peace Memorial Park. The Peace Memorial Museum was crowded as usual, and it seemed they were not able to view the exhibits at a leisurely pace.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2OtherMiyajimaguchi~Miyajima Port100JPY
    Section 3TrainHiroden Miyajimaguchi~Atomic Bomb Dome Mae240JPY
    Total760JPY

    I mainly provide guided tours around Hiroshima city, especially in the area surrounding the Peace Memorial
    Park. I often go to Miyajima and explore each touristic spot,so I have a great deal of knowledge about the
    island itself and religious background of the island. I am from a buddhism school, so I can share some insightful knowledge about Buddhism ethics as well.
    Visiting not only Miyajima but some other
    islands around Hiroshima city, I can recommend some activities of those islands. For instance, fishing, hiking, etc.
    Lastly, I am a big food fan. I can also introduce delicious local foods that are unique to Hiroshima.
    Hiroshima is famous for okonomiyaki ( It is kind of like layered savory pancake).
    I know some restaurants that offer fantastic okonomiyaki.
    I hope you have a great time here in Hiroshima, I am more than happy to help you explore this beautiful city.

  • Fukushima: Guide joins at CREVA Okuma & Futaba Station

    Fukushima: Guide joins at CREVA Okuma & Futaba Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • Around 06:30 Guests depart Tokyo
    • 10:10 Guide joins at CREVA Okuma
    • ~Explanation of the interim storage facility area visible from National Route 6, and decontamination
    • 10:20-12:15 Industrial Exchange Center, Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum
    • 12:40-13:30 Roadside Station Namie Lunch and shopping
    • 13:45-15:05 Ukedo Elementary School
    • 15:15-15:20 Ohiraland Cemetery
    • 15:30-16:10 Walk around Futaba Station
    • 16:20   CREVA Okuma~Guide leaves the group
    • 19:59 Guests arrive at Hotel

    What Is a Private Guided Tour of Fukushima's Futaba and the Nuclear Disaster Area Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest had said that footage of the hydrogen explosion at TEPCO's Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant had stayed in their mind. From the rooftop of the industrial exchange center, the guest looked out toward the Daiichi plant, and viewed the exhibits and videos inside the memorial museum with great interest. The guest also listened intently to my explanations about the interim storage facility area, and about how the storage period for the collected soil and waste, as well as the location of the final disposal site, remain undetermined. When I mentioned that Fukushima is a famous producer of peaches, the guest picked up many peach keychains found at the Michi-no-Eki Namie roadside station to give to family and relatives, saying, "I want to contribute to Fukushima's economy," and purchased them. For lunch, the guest wanted to try something local and had Namie yakisoba, and I was delighted when they said it was delicious. The fire brigade station in front of Futaba Station has finally entered demolition and is now covered with sheeting. I spoke about it while showing a photograph of how it once looked, but there is a real difference in impact between having the actual structure in front of you and not. I understand there are various circumstances, but as a guide, the demolition leaves me with a heavy heart. We happened to meet a resident living near the station and chatted for a little while. When the guest asked about their housing, they said, "I've had to move twelve times. Next time, come and visit at your leisure." The guest was a coffee lover and was disappointed that the coffee shop in front of the station was closed, and since the tour passed by in the blink of an eye, they said, "I'd like to come back here again and have a coffee." [Note: Guide's admission fees] The guest kindly paid for my admission to the memorial museum as well. For Ukedo Elementary School, admission was charged because we are not a registered organization, and I paid for this myself.

    Hello. I’m Mikiko Shiga, a licensed guide interpreter.
    I live in Iwaki, Fukushima, about 200km northeast from Tokyo.
    I was born in Sendai, the capital of Tohoku or the North East area of Japan.
    I ‘ve belonged to a volunteer guide group, I experienced walking tours in Asakusa, and other places in Tokyo.

    Meanwhile, the area I was born and live in is relatively uncrowded.
    Tohoku is blessed with beautiful nature, delicious food and fresh air.
    It is recommendable for tourists who want to avoid busy places.
    It would be wonderful if I could share the attractions in Tohoku or Ibaraki areas with my guests.

    Jul 10, 2026
    Jenny_A
    Viator review: Fukushima Hope Tour in 1 Day by Car with Licensed Guide
    Interesting tour to see…
    Interesting tour to see…

    Jun 14, 2026
    Michael_B
    Viator review: Fukushima Hope Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle from Iwaki
    Fukushima & Iwaki – Excellent Tour With Local Guides…

    Mar 23, 2025
    Phillosophizing
    An Unforgettable Journey Through Resilience and Remembrance
    Tripadvisor review: Fukushima Hope Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle from Iwaki
    Our Fukushima…

    Oct 11, 2024
    716zaineb
    A wonderful tour worth doing!
    Tripadvisor review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Miki did a wonderful job…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 09:30 Miyajima
    • 12:30 Lunch
    • 13:30 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 16:30 Hiroshima Station Dismissal

    Title: What Is a Private Guided Tour of Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I had the pleasure of guiding a group visiting from Europe. Since one of the guests shared the same name as someone close to me, our conversation flowed warmly and it made for a great ice breaker. The weather that day was clear and sunny, making it a perfect day for sightseeing. The guests spoke with me about the education system in their home region and about tuition-free schooling, which made for a very interesting conversation. They had carefully read through the materials I had provided beforehand, and told me they were glad to have learned about the Peace Memorial Park in advance. It was memorable how they expressed strong empathy for the importance of places that convey the value of peace.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi~Nishi-Hiroshima330JPY
    Section 3BusNishi-Hiroshima~Genbaku Dome-mae240JPY
    Total990JPY

    Originally, I’m a cycling guide doing cycling tours all over Japan.
    But, already done Hiroshima & Miyajima tour more than 400 times.
    I traveled many countries in my younger days. I traveled Europe, US, China, India, US, Mexico, Peru Australia, NZ, and so on.
    I decided to use this experience to become a guide.
    I’m afraid but no tipping required, because cycling guides are not allowed to have tipping in my association. And you do not need to pay for my lunch, because my lunch is prepared by our group.
    Please do not hesitate to ask me anything, I’ll change the plan according to your requests.
    Thank you for your understanding and please stay connected.

    Jun 1, 2026
    John_W
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    A top day with a top guide
    My wife…

    May 27, 2026
    Annabelle_C
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima in a day
    Yuji was a great communicator…

    May 12, 2026
    satishp656
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    HIROSHIMA HALF DAY TOUR
    Yuji is a warm, knowledgeble…

    May 10, 2026
    StephanieB6076
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Incredible Experience
    We had an incredible experience visiting Hiroshima…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Peace Park & Miyajima island

    Hiroshima in One Day: Peace Park & Miyajima island

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at Ujina Cruise Terminal
    • Move to Peace Park by taxi (Reserve one large vehicle, approx. 3500 yen)
    • 10:00-13:00 Peace Park sightseeing (Museum, Atomic Bomb Dome, etc.)
    • Lunch at a nearby convenience store, etc.
    • Move to Miyajima by speedboat (World Heritage Route)
    • (Departs 13:00, arrives 13:45)
    • 13:45- 17:00 Miyajima island sightseeing (Itsukushima Shrine, Daishoin Temple, etc.)
    • Move to Ujina Port by speedboat (Setouchi Sea Line) 2300 yen/person
    • Departs 17:00, arrives 17:29
    • Move to the Cruise Terminal by shuttle bus

    Title: What Is a Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Tour Like for Cruise Guests? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests had arrived in Japan by cruise ship and mentioned that they preferred not to eat anything too heavy, so we purchased sandwiches and other items at a convenience store near the Peace Memorial Park and enjoyed them under the fully bloomed cherry blossoms, which the guests were very happy about as a cherry blossom viewing experience. At Itsukushima Shrine, when I explained the ema votive tablets, the guests said they wished to pray for success in their family member's studies, so I guided them through it, and they enjoyed experiencing this Japanese custom. Since the guests preferred a relaxed pace, we took our time and included frequent restroom breaks throughout the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherPeace Park~Miyajima Port1,200JPY
    Section 2OtherMiyajima Port~Ujina Port1,150JPY
    Total2,350JPY

    Hello, I’m Kyoko, a certified regional interpreter-guide for Hiroshima Prefecture. I was born, educated, and worked in Hiroshima while raising my children, and I absolutely love this city. I have a deep interest in learning about history and culture, and I enjoy exploring the city and trying out local foods. Meeting people from diverse backgrounds and chatting with them brings me great joy, so I’m really looking forward to helping make your trip to Hiroshima a wonderful and memorable experience.

    Hiroshima is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Atomic Bomb Dome and Itsukushima Shrine. The Atomic Bomb Dome is a poignant reminder of history, standing gracefully within a beautiful park. Walking through the park together, we can reflect on the powerful message of peace it conveys. Itsukushima Shrine, famous for its red torii gate floating in the sea, is located on a picturesque island. It’s a place where you can enjoy a truly relaxing and serene time.

    I can also guide you to other popular tourist destinations, help you enjoy Hiroshima’s local delicacies such as okonomiyaki, oysters, and conger eel, or assist you with shopping.

    I will do my utmost to ensure that your trip to Hiroshima becomes a wonderful and unforgettable memory.

    May 20, 2026
    629reniea
    Miyajima Island
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hi Kyoko
    We are very sad to hear about…

    May 8, 2026
    Jan S
    We were blessed with perfect weather and the perfect guide. Kyoko was knowledgeable, patient, polite, fun, sense humour
    Tripadvisor review:…

    Apr 9, 2026
    dianne321
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Emotional and confronting
    Moving experience with amazing guide Kyoko.…

    Mar 26, 2026
    Carmen Maria S
    Great afternoon at Hiroshima❤️
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoko was an excellent…

  • Hiraizumi Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hiraizumi Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:10 Meet at JR Hiraizumi Station ⇒ 09:30 Hiraizumi World Heritage Guidance Center ⇒ 10:20 Roadside Station "Hiraizumi" ⇒ 10:50 Kanjizaiō-in ⇒ 10:55 Mōtsū-ji Temple ⇒ 11:35 Chūson-ji Tsukimizaka Entrance ⇒ 11:45 Chūson-ji Higashi Monomi ⇒ 11:55 Sankōzō ⇒ 12:20 Chūson-ji Konjikidō (Golden Hall) ⇒ 12:50 Chūson-ji Kyōdō (Sutra Hall) ⇒ 13:00 Chūson-ji Old Covered Hall ⇒ 13:15 Kanzan-tei (Lunch) ⇒ 13:50 Chūson-ji Main Hall ⇒ 14:05 Chūson-ji Tsukimizaka Entrance ⇒ 14:30 Hiraizumi Station ⇒ 15:17 Tōhoku Main Line (Northbound, from Hiraizumi Station to Ichinoseki Station)

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Hiraizumi's World Heritage Sites Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group of five from North America. Their main purpose for visiting Japan was to attend a wedding in Tokyo. Unfortunately, the newlyweds could not come to Hiraizumi. The group who joined the tour consisted of some of the family members. At the guests' request, after meeting at Hiraizumi Station, we did not use a car and instead had a walking tour starting from the Hiraizumi World Heritage Guidance Center, then visiting the Muryoko-in Ruins, Michi-no-Eki Hiraizumi, Motsu-ji Temple, the Kanjizaio-in Ruins, and finally Chuson-ji Temple. Between the Kanjizaio-in Ruins and Chuson-ji lies the World Heritage site of Mount Kinkeisan, but since there was a possibility of bears appearing after hibernation, we consulted with the guests and decided to skip Mount Kinkeisan this time. The meeting time was 10 am, but the guests arrived at Hiraizumi Station around 09:10. After discussing it, we decided to start the tour about an hour earlier and immediately set off toward the Hiraizumi World Heritage Guidance Center. Walking through the town and introducing ourselves to each other, we arrived at the Guidance Center in about ten minutes. After paying the admission fee (¥320), we immediately previewed the history of Hiraizumi through a powerful projection mapping video. The explanation was only in Japanese, but English subtitles appeared in the latter half, so I believe the guests were able to understand it. The Guidance Center has many exhibits, and the Muryoko-in Ruins can also be seen clearly through the windows, so it offers two benefits at once. It took about 40 minutes to look through the Guidance Center. After this, just across the road is Michi-no-Eki Hiraizumi. Here, at the guests' request, we only made a restroom stop. We then headed straight for Motsu-ji Temple. It takes about 20 minutes on foot (about 1.5 km) to reach Motsu-ji. Along the way, there are many cherry trees, but the cherry buds were still tight, and the cherry blossoms would not bloom for about another week. However, plum blossoms were in bloom here and there, so I believe the guests could feel the arrival of spring in Hiraizumi. While we were chatting about flowers, we arrived at Motsu-ji. After paying the admission fee and entering the grounds, we immediately saw a plum tree blooming in pink. Also, about 20 meters further in, an apricot tree was in full bloom with beautiful pink flowers. The guests looked at them happily. Motsu-ji is famous for its irises, but at this time of year the stems were still underground, and several local people were working in the iris field. They say you can see many iris flowers in June. On the way to the main hall, there is a stone monument with a haiku by Basho. The guests looked at "Natsukusa ya / tsuwamono-domo ga / yume no ato" and read its English translation, reciting it. Perhaps something resonated with them. At the Nandaimon Gate ruins, I talked about the "White Deer Legend" of Motsu-ji. We visited the main hall and walked around the Pure Land Garden. There were several questions about the artificial hill, the standing stone in the large pond, and the flowing water channels. A full-size model of the standing stone was displayed at the Guidance Center, and it is quite a large stone. Just before the East Gate ruins of Motsu-ji, there is a bell tower. When I guided at Motsu-ji last time, the guest paid 500 yen and rang the bell, but this time, unfortunately, there was no attendant, so the bell could not be rung, and the guests seemed disappointed. After about 40 minutes strolling in the Pure Land Garden, with Kanjizaio-in on our left, we headed for Chuson-ji. Since it was lunchtime, I consulted the guests about what to do for lunch before reaching Chuson-ji, but their hearts seemed set on Konjikido, the treasure of Hiraizumi, so we decided to head for Chuson-ji first. Some of the guests walked quite fast. One of the group seemed a little tired, and I became a little worried, so I asked directly, and I was reassured that they knew their own condition and were fine. Naturally, this explained why some of the guests walked so fast. At Hiraizumi Station I had said, "Please feel free to go at your own pace and walk slowly," which now made me feel a little embarrassed. Now we arrived at the entrance to Chuson-ji's "Tsukimizaka" slope. The 300 meters up to "Higashi-monomi" is a fairly steep uphill climb. Since some of the group were starting to fall behind, I was concerned, so I decided to climb together with them. One of the guests sat down on a bench by the roadside to catch their breath. I asked the three who went ahead to wait at "Higashi-monomi," and the slower group soon arrived safely at "Higashi-monomi" as well. After taking a commemorative photo, we headed straight for Konjikido. After paying the admission fee at the Sankozo (Treasure Hall), just as we were about to enter, there was an opinion that we should skip the Sankozo and go straight to Konjikido, but I said that the national treasures — the "Joroku Buddha," the "Thousand-Armed Kannon," and the "Konshi Kinji Issaikyo" sutras — were waiting for the guests, so let's go into the Sankozo. The Sankozo is quite popular. It was crowded with visitors viewing the exhibits. It is indeed a treasure house of national treasures. At last we reached "Konjikido," which the guests had been eagerly awaiting. Unusually, inside Konjikido it was not as crowded as I had expected. Inside Konjikido, an explanatory announcement is played at high volume. Visitors can deeply understand the history of Konjikido and Buddhist culture while listening to the announcement in the hall. Normally the explanation is in Japanese, but when I asked a staff member to play the English announcement, fortunately for us there happened to be almost no Japanese tourists, so they immediately began the English announcement. The guests looked at Konjikido straight on and listened intently to the explanation in English. I truly felt it was good that I had done a preliminary visit a few days earlier. After viewing "Konjikido," the guests seemed hungry, so we decided to have lunch. Among several restaurant candidates, we chose "Kanzantei," the closest one. After briefly stopping at the "Kyozo" (sutra hall) and the "Oido" along the way, we arrived at "Kanzantei." All five ordered heated buckwheat soba with grated yam. It seemed to be delicious. I think the view through the window was also nice. After the meal, we briefly stopped at the main hall along the way. I explained that it is the most important temple at Chuson-ji, but everyone's mind seemed occupied with returning to Hiraizumi Station soon. It is about 1.5 km from Chuson-ji to Hiraizumi Station, but at the guests' request we returned to Hiraizumi Station by two taxis. Since there was some waiting time before the train, the guests bought snacks at a convenience store and had a snack time. The tour ended here. The guests boarded the 15:17 Tohoku Main Line to Ichinoseki Station, then transferred to the Shinkansen there and headed for Sendai Station. They planned to go to a department store near Sendai Station to buy souvenirs. It was a very educational day for me.

    Hello and welcome! If you’re an inbound guest, I’d like to extend a warm greeting to you. I hope you have a pleasant stay in our beautiful city. If there’s anything you need, feel free to ask – I’m here to assist! My name’s Toshiya Ozawa. Please call me Toshi. I have 25 years’ experience as National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter guiding in English. Presently, I live in Ohsyu-shi, Iwate-ken where the Major Baseball player Shohei Ohtani was born and bred. The followings are the places where I attended as a tour guide for your reference. [Guide experience] Nara’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. Japan’s largest lake Lake biwa and Azuchi-jyo Ruins in Shiga prefecture. Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara:Horyu-ji, Nara Park, Todaiji Temple. Former Site of the Imperial Palace at Heijokyo, Todaiji Temple, along with Kasugataisha Shrine and the Kasugayama Primeval Forest. Koyasan (Shukubo Rengejo-in) shukubo literally means sleeping with the monks. Yagyu-no-sato (or the swordsman village of Yagyu), known as the home of Yagyu Shinkage-Ryu (traditional style of swordsmanship), is located in Northeast of Nara-city with rich natural environment. In Kyoto: JR Kyoto Station, The Golden Pavilion, World Heritage Site Former Imperial Villa Nijo-jo Castle, Ryoan-ji Temple, Nanzen-ji Temple. In Mie Prefecture: Ise Shrine, Wadakin (Japan’s one of the best wagyu-beef restaurant, Matsusaka-shi). In Shiga prefecture: Mother Lake Lake Biwa, Azuchi Castle ruins.
    In Tokyo: Meiji shrine, Odaiba, Imperial Palace, Takeshita Street in Harajyuku, Akihabara (the otaku mecca and has its own unique atmosphere), Asakusa Kannon (Bodhisattva of Mercy) Sensoji Temple, and Tokyo Tower.
    In Shizuoka Prefecture: Mt. Fuji.
    In Aichi prefecture: 1. Atsuta Shrine 2. Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology 3. Inuyama Castle (Inuyama-shi) 4. Ohsu Shopping District 5. Konomiya Naked Festival (Inazawa-shi) 6.Tagata Jinja Shrine’s Honen Festival 7. Toyota Automobile Museum (Nagakute-shi) 8. Thousand Rice Paddies of Yotsuya (Yotsuya Senmaida) (Shinshiro-shi) 9. Asuke/Korankei (Toyota-shi Asuke-cho) 10. Chubu Centrair International Airport 11. Rest Stop (Highway Oasis Kariya, Donguri-no-sato Inabu)


    10 years’ experience in a trading operations position and 7 years’ experience as an Exporting Manager and 5 years’ experience as a Domestic Sales Representative: All of the experiences above included contacts with respective customers both externally and internally.
    I spent more than 2 years in the United States and Canada. Attended Kibbutz Hebrew class for six months in Israel.


    Aug1991– present MASPRO DENKOH Corporation, Aichi prefecture in Japan.
    Sales presentative/Exporting Manager “Export of TV reception and related equipment to Hong Kong, Malaysia and Thailand”
    Negotiated prices and specifications with the makers “Drafting and arranging the needed documentations requested by custom houses”
    OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) supply of CS antennas to SONY Corporation
    OEM supply of U.S. DirecTV Satellite Dish Antenna Dual LNB to Sony Corporation
    Attended the customers from overseas when they came to the head office
    Interpreter, translator to the C.E.O. (engaged in direct report to the company president)
    Import of invaluable western style paintings, Japanese potteries and porcelains
    Export of receiver and transmitter for Qualcomm Omni TRACS Ku-band satellite fleet tracking system in the U.S.
    Export of CATV Tap-off for Time Warner Cable in the U.S. OEM supply of ETC In-Vehicle Unit in Singapore to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.
    Apr. 1989–March 1991, employed by ESPO Corporation in Tokyo, Japan. Manager of secretarial section to the C.E.O
    Interpreter, translator to the C.E.O “Assisted M&A transactions”
    Formula 1 ESPO-LARROUSSE Team negotiation and interpreter. Was in charge of training new staff (26 university graduates )
    Supervised new graduate recruitment activities as a part of training new staff and successfully recruited 40 prospective employees
    Apr 1976 – March 1991 Nissait English School in Tokyo, Japan
    1989 Director of Nissait English School “Management of English schools in Tokyo and Saitama prefecture”
    Instructor: Taught English conversation more than 1000 students “Was in charge of training new instructors (12 vocational college graduates )”
    Supervised new student recruitment activities as a part of training new instructors and successfully recruited 420 students at ten different schools for 5 years
    Was in charge of International Exchange program
    Chaperoned and supervised 160 Japanese youth delegates for cultural immersion homestays in the U.S.A. and Canada.
    Education: In 1976, Completed the curriculum at a university, received a degree of B.A. in Economics, Aoyama Gakuin University, in Tokyo.


    Windows MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint


    Certified as a National Licensed English-Speaking Tour Guide in 2009 (License No. Aichi EN00307)
    Passed Grade 1 of the EIKEN Test in Practical English Proficiency in 1989.

    Apr 29, 2026
    447dags
    Tripadvisor review: Morioka Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Full service tour of Morioka
    Full service tour with Toshiya Ozawa, who…

    Apr 2, 2025
    Calder_L
    Best way to spend the afternoon in Morioka.
    Viator review: Morioka Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Toshisan was an amazing…

    Jun 14, 2024
    Pelle S
    Great insights on Morioka!
    Tripadvisor review: Morioka Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Toshi-san is a very knowledable guide with…

    May 30, 2024
    Juan Ignacio G
    Experiencia recomendable!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiraizumi Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Toshi nos acompañó con mucho entusiasmo a recorrer…

  • Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Hotel Higashiyama Kyoto Tokyu, Hotel Meeting Point
    • 8:15 Yasaka Pagoda ~ Yasaka Koshindo ~ Sannenzaka ~ Kiyomizu-dera
    • 8:35 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 10:15 Kinkaku-ji
    • 11:50 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 12:00 Dismissal in front of the main hall of Fushimi Inari Taisha

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji, and Fushimi Inari Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. They had already traveled through several places in Asia before arriving in Tokyo and Kyoto. The weather was fine, and since we started early in the morning, there were fewer people around, making it a perfect day for sightseeing. Cherry blossoms could be seen everywhere, which delighted the guests. They also enjoyed taking photographs, so they were very pleased with Sannenzaka and Kiyomizu-dera, which offer many great photo spots. They were surprised by how crowded Kinkaku-ji was. After that, I took them to Fushimi Inari Taisha, gave a full explanation, and we parted ways. I believe they enjoyed the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHigashiyama Sanjo (Subway Higashiyama Station) / Kyoto City Bus~Kiyomizu-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2BusKinkaku-ji-michi / Kyoto City Bus~Kitaoji Bus Terminal (Subway Kitaoji Station) / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3SubwayKitaoji~Kyoto260JPY
    Section 4TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Total870JPY

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

    Jul 25, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Half-day with private guide in Kyoto
    We spent half a day…

    Jul 24, 2026
    J6711TVnancyb
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Family Fun Day in Kyoto with young children
    Kaeko Tanigawa was fantastic at helping us create…

    Jul 13, 2026
    elizabethtW414DU
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Private Tour
    Kaeko was absolutely amazing from start…

    Jul 12, 2026
    johnkE8649IH
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Kyoto Day Tour
    We had a wonderful experience touring Kyoto…

  • Mie in One Day: Geku & Futami Okitama Shrine

    Mie in One Day: Geku & Futami Okitama Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:10-10:20 Drop off luggage at the Ise-shi Station baggage storage
    • 10:20-10:30 Arrive at Geku (Outer Shrine)
    • 10:30-11:15 Visit Geku (Outer Shrine)
    • 11:15-11:45 Tour the Sengukan Museum attached to Geku
    • 11:45-12:00 Travel to Naiku (Inner Shrine) by taxi
    • 12:00-12:45 Lunch
    • 12:45-13:45 Visit Naiku (Inner Shrine)
    • 13:45-14:45 Stroll through Oharai-machi
    • 14:45-15:15 Travel from Naiku to Futamigaura by taxi
    • 15:15-16:35 Visit Futami Okitama Shrine (Meoto Iwa / Wedded Rocks)
    • 16:35-16:42 Travel to Ise-shi Station by JR

    What Is a Private Ise Jingu and Futamigaura Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of three visiting Japan. I believe we had an enjoyable tour and they were satisfied. One of the guests spoke Japanese, but the others did not understand the language, so I carefully explained about the shrine. At first they did not seem very interested, but I made an effort to gradually spark their interest, and I believe they came to understand it more deeply. Regarding Futamigaura, since it is some distance from Ise Jingu and both bus and JR services run infrequently, I think at least 6 hours is necessary. Going forward, I would like to manage time well in response to the guests' requests. The luggage storage in front of Ise-shi Station is only open from 09:00 to 17:30, which is a significant obstacle for guests with large luggage, so caution is needed. If the luggage cannot be picked up by 17:30, the guests are stuck until the next morning.

    Hi, I am your guide Henry. Henry Kurata
    I have experience of visiting more than 40 different countries in the world and stayed in USA and UK more than total of 10 years as for expats of Automotive components manufacturer. Since I have decent knowledge about Japanese culture and history. I am pretty much for sure I can be your assistant wherever you go, whatever your interest is. I would help you to have unforgettable experience either in popular place or off the beaten track throughout in Japan.
    If you care about flowering cherry in Japan, I am right person you can trust since I am an enthusiast on researching and watching many different species throughout in Japan. I hope I can meet you in Japan in near future.
    Your wish for wonder is my command.
    Thank you very much!

    Jun 23, 2026
    Andrew_M
    Viator review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Henry is a wonderful guide
    We had a fantastic…

    May 6, 2026
    albypoo
    Tripadvisor review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Unforgettable day at Ise Jingu with Henry
    We were…

    May 6, 2026
    s0ranet
    Tripadvisor review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    充実したツアーでありがとうございました!
    GW期間中で他のツアーがすべて満席だったため、こちらからプライベートガイドを申し込みました。予約サイトから英語のメールが届き、ガイドの倉田さんと直接やり取りをして進める流れでした。

    プライベートツアーを利用するのは初めてだったのですが、ガイドの倉田さんが本当に「神対応」でした!GWの混雑などで私たちが2時間も遅刻してしまったのですが、スケジュールを柔軟に調整してくださり、とても親切に迎えてくださいました。

    伊勢神宮の外宮から内宮をご案内いただいたのですが、知識が大変豊富で、こちらの質問にも的確に答えてくださり、とても充実した時間を過ごすことができました。ユーモアたっぷりでウィットに富んだ素晴らしいお人柄なので、一緒にお話ししていて本当に楽しいです!

    日本語と英語の両方でご対応いただけるそうなので、このサイトを利用する海外の旅行者の方にも強くおすすめします。今回このツアーに申し込んで大正解でした。最高の旅行の思い出をありがとうございました。

    May 1, 2026
    J1543OM_
    Tripadvisor review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    初お伊勢さん
    本日は大変貴重なお時間をいただきありがとうございました。とてもわかりやすい倉田さんのガイドで4時間とても充実した時間を過ごさせていたきました。はじめての伊勢神宮をとても満喫できました。また何かの機会があったら、倉田さんよろしくお願いします。

  • Tokyo: Ueno Park & Nijubashi Bridge

    Tokyo: Ueno Park & Nijubashi Bridge

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel
    • 10:40 Ueno, Tokyo National Museum
    • 12:30 Ueno Park
    • 1:00 Lunch, Chinese cuisine
    • 2:30 Asakusa
    • 3:45 Nijubashi Bridge
    • 4:00 Farewell at Tokyo Station

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour Including Ueno Park and the National Museum Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan together. They were very interested in Japan, and we talked about many different things. As they wished to part ways at Tokyo Station rather than returning to their hotel, the car took us as far as Nijubashi, and I said goodbye to them at Tokyo Station. The weather was cloudy, but the cherry blossoms in Ueno Park were in full bloom and very beautiful. They viewed the exhibits at the Tokyo National Museum very carefully and attentively. Everyone in the group got along well and showed great intellectual curiosity, which made guiding them truly rewarding. As they wished to see the cherry blossoms at night, they mentioned that they would return to Ueno Park again in the evening.

    Hello, my name is Tomoko, I have been an English guide since 2011. I have guided Asakusa, Tokyo SkyTree, Nihonnbashi, Shibuya, Harajyuku, Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street, Ginza, Yanaka, Tsukiji, Hamarikyuu Garden and many places in Tokyo. Public transportation in Tokyo is very complicated, I show the guests how to use public transportation in Tokyo. I will exchange a lot of emails with my guests and according to your requests, I will make itineraries. The tour will be a customized tour only for you. Will you tell me whatever you want to do and whereever you want to visit in Japan? My motto is ‘Enjoy! I am looking forward to guiding you. Thank you.

  • Hiroshima: Taking to the Shukkeien Garden & Museum

    Hiroshima: Taking to the Shukkeien Garden & Museum

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meeting at Hiroshima Station
    • 11:00 Taking to the Shukkeien Garden
    • 12:20 Explaining about the A-bomb in front of the Museum
    • 12:50 Museum
    • 13.40 Monument tour, including the A-bomb dome
    • 14:30 Goodbye in front of the tram leaving for Miyajiama

    Title: What Is a Private Hiroshima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shukkeien Garden and the Peace Memorial Museum The guests admired the beauty of the cherry blossoms, mimosa, and peach blossoms at Shukkeien Garden. They were also interested in the difference between the shingle-shake roofing of the tea house and the cypress-bark roofing seen at shrines. They mentioned that the pine needles in their home region are about half the length of those on Japanese pines. In front of the Peace Memorial Museum, I explained the exhibits, the Pacific War that led to the atomic bombing, the atomic bomb that was dropped, and the reasons Hiroshima was chosen as a target. A question was raised about whether Nagasaki had been selected for the same topographical reasons. After leaving the museum, another question came up: "The content was very clear, but is there no lingering emotional resentment among the survivors?" When I explained that the survivors realized peace cannot be built on hatred, and that mutual understanding and friendship are what truly matter, the guests nodded in agreement. Before parting, I said to one of the guests, "Hiroshima has been rebuilt, but the hearts of the survivors have not yet fully recovered. Please think about why that is." And with that, we said goodbye.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherHiroshima Station/JR Bus Chugoku~Shukkeien-mae240JPY
    Section 2OtherShukkeien-mae~Peace Park-mae240JPY
    Total480JPY

    Select a guide: enter the WordPress Guide post ID or Guide ID in the block settings.

    Apr 13, 2026
    Mariana_M
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima Tour with Yoshi
    Yoshi was truly one of the…

    Apr 11, 2026
    Liesbet N
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Boeiende reis door geschiedenis
    Een boeiende rondleiding van Yoshiko…

    Oct 26, 2025
    COYS100
    Great Hiroshima experience
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    A great tour with a very informed…

    Jun 25, 2025
    O1135UVraymondp
    Highly recommended to everyone to this tour
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Joshi is…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Takadanobaba Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Takadanobaba Station & Shibuya Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Meeting point: Tama Ryokan, Japan, Präfektur TokioShinjukuTakadanobaba, 1 Chome−25−33
    • 12:05 Depart Takadanobaba Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • 12:30 Arrive Otemachi Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 13:15 Depart Otemachi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Kasumigaseki Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line)
    • 13:45 Arrive Shinjuku Station
    • Shinjuku Kabukicho
    • Omoide Yokocho
    • Shinjuku Golden Gai
    • 14:15 Shinjuku-sanchome Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line)
    • 14:30 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • 15:15 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 15:25 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 15:45 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 16:00 Arrive Takadanobaba Station
    • 16:00 Disband: Takadanobaba Station

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like in Cherry Blossom Season? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a first-time visitor to Japan, arriving from Europe. Originally from Southern Europe, they mentioned that their family and relatives still live there and that they return to visit from time to time. The guest had arrived at Haneda Airport the previous day and traveled to the hotel by train. They spent the previous day exploring the area around the hotel. This time, the guest planned an eight-day visit, staying only in Tokyo and its surrounding areas. Today, the guest expressed a wish, saying, "I'm looking forward to seeing the cherry blossoms." The tour took place amid continuous light rain. We first went to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. The cherry blossoms were nearly in full bloom despite the rain. I explained topics such as "Japanese history from the Edo to the Meiji period," "the Meiji Restoration," "why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace," "the history of the Imperial Family," "World War II and the air raids on Tokyo," and "how the stone walls were built." The guest asked questions and made comments such as "Does the current Emperor of Japan hold political power?", "Who will be the next Emperor?", and "Can a woman become Emperor?" We then moved to the east exit of Shinjuku. I explained "the history of Shinjuku" and "the difference between the east and west exits of Shinjuku." We strolled through Kabukicho. The guest enthusiastically photographed the 3D cat billboard and the Godzilla Head. We walked through Omoide Yokocho and Kabukicho, and the guest enthusiastically photographed the 3D cat billboard and the Godzilla Head. They also remarked, "Unlike other areas, there is litter scattered around here." We moved to Harajuku. At Meiji Shrine, despite the rain, the grounds were full of visitors. I explained topics such as "Shinto," "torii gates," "Emperor Meiji," "why sake barrels are displayed," and "why wine barrels are displayed." The guest asked questions such as "What kind of religion is Shinto?" and "How does Buddhism differ from Shinto?" We took a short break at Forest Terrace Meiji Jingu. We then moved to Shibuya. We actually crossed the Scramble Crossing, and the guest asked questions such as "How many people gather here at the busiest times?" and "Why did it become so famous?" We also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. The guest made comments and asked questions such as "The trains are so quiet—no one is talking loudly. Germany doesn't have a subway system this complex, and there are fewer trains," "Tokyo is so clean throughout the city, with no litter on the ground," and "I'm surprised that public restrooms everywhere are clean and free." I saw the guest off at Takadanobaba Station, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTakadanobaba~Otemachi (Tokyo)210JPY
    Section 2OtherOtemachi~Shinjuku (Tokyo Metro)210JPY
    Section 3TrainShinjuku-sanchome~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 4TrainMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 5TrainShibuya~Takadanobaba210JPY
    Total990JPY

    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
    97TexAg
    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
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…