Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Hamarikyu Gardens

    Tokyo in One Day: Hamarikyu Gardens

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet @ Osanbashi Pier Passenger Terminal
    • 10:10 From Nihon Odori via Yokohama Station to Shimbashi
    • 10:45 Walk from Shimbashi Station to Hamarikyu
    • 11:00-12:00 @ Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 12:20-13:00 @ Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 13:00-14:00 Sushi Lunch @ Sushi Waka
    • 14:00-14:40 From Higashi-Ginza to Asakusa
    • 14:40-16:00 @ Asakusa (Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine)
    • 16:00-16:40 To Shibuya via Tokyo Metro Ginza Line
    • 16:40-17:15 @ Shibuya (Hachiko Statue, Scramble Crossing)
    • 17:15-18:00 To Nihon Odori via Toyoko Line / Minatomirai Line
    • 18:00 Dismiss @ Nihon Odori Station

    What Does a Private Cruise-Port Day Tour of Tokyo Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were two groups who had arrived in Japan by cruise ship, having become friends aboard the ship. Booking took place in January, and since we had exchanged emails many times from the very beginning, everything went very smoothly. That said, the itinerary was not decided until the day itself, and in the end we proceeded with a classic recommended course: Hamarikyu Gardens, the Tsukiji Outer Market, Asakusa, and Shibuya. They were very grateful that I proceeded in a way that saved as much time as possible — lending them PASMO cards to shorten waiting times, taking them to a sushi restaurant in Higashi-Ginza rather than inside the Tsukiji market since they wished to have a sushi lunch, and setting Shibuya as the final destination so they could return directly to Nihon-Odori Station (the nearest station to the Osanbashi Pier). For the sushi lunch, since they had some preferences about the toppings, they requested to order à la carte rather than a set lunch, so I explained the various toppings to them, and it seems they were able to enjoy the ones they liked. (They even wrote about this in their review!) I gave the guests Japanese tenugui handkerchiefs, which were also very well received. I received a five-star review, and overall I believe they were very satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNihon Odori~Yokohama230JPY
    Section 2TrainYokohama~Shimbashi530JPY
    Section 3SubwayHigashi-Ginza~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa~Shibuya260JPY
    Section 5TrainShibuya~Nihon Odori540JPY
    Total1,770JPY

    Hi, I’m May, your guide in Tokyo. Welcome to Japan!
    I have been grown up in Tokyo and working here for more than 45 years, so I’m sure I can share the best attraction of Tokyo with you, such as food, cultural and historic sites, sub-culture, shopping, and nightlife.
    Besides the tour guide, I have been working for a travel agent for more than 30 years, I can advise you the travel plan of not only in Tokyo but all over Japan.
    I had lots of guests from all over the world here in Tokyo, and most of them gave me great and wonderful review.
    I’m sure I can meet all of your demand and expectations, and am ready to welcome you to Japan with the best “Omotenashi” mind, or hospitality.

    Sep 19, 2026
    Plumb72
    Introduction to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide ‘May’ had emailed us several times…

    Aug 31, 2026
    Charlene_E
    You get to experience…
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    You get to experience moving…

    Aug 31, 2026
    labrinir2016
    Excellent- best in class.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We booked a private tour…

    Jul 16, 2026
    fernandorM8865OM
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Fuji Five Lakes Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    Memorable day
    We had a great time. Our guide Meiji…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Sanjusangendo

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Sanjusangendo

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at ANA Crowne Plaza
    • 8:45 Nijo Castle
    • 10:30 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 11:30 Sanjusangendo
    • 12:30 Disband at Gion

    What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kiyomizu-dera, Sanjusangendo, and Gion The guests were visiting from Europe. It was a return visit to Japan for one of them and a first visit for the other. One of the guests enjoyed photography and brought a large camera to take photos throughout the tour. Another of the guests preferred to avoid crowds and did not seem accustomed to much walking, and appeared quite tired after climbing the slope up to Kiyomizu-dera. After taking a break, they said at the bus stop heading to Sanjusangendo that they were tired and wished to return to the Hotel to rest. As a result, Sanjusangendo and Gion were visited with only part of the group. Although the itinerary had been agreed upon in advance, it seemed to have been too demanding in the end. I received a comment that the tour had been enjoyable, but I had mixed feelings about it. I had decided the order of visits based on the flow of the route, but I feel it may have been better to arrange the itinerary so that flatter areas were visited first.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNijojo-mae~Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)220JPY
    Section 2BusShijo Karasuma (Subway Shijo Station) / Kyoto City Bus~Kiyomizu-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3BusKiyomizu-michi / Kyoto City Bus~Museum Sanjusangendo-mae / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4TrainShichijo~Gion-Shijo180JPY
    Total860JPY

    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
    Tanya_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great guide
    Naoki was very kind and knowledgeable He knew the best…

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hakone-Yumoto Station→Hakone Tozan Railway→Gora Station→Bus→11:15 Nicolai Bergmann Hakone Gardens→Bus→Choanji Temple→Bus→Gora→13:15 Lunch→Bus→Hakone Park→Gora Park→Hakone Tozan Railway→16:15 Say goodbye at Hakone-Yumoto Station

    What Is a Private Nature and Garden Day Tour of Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report After meeting the guests at the Hotel, we headed to Nicolai Bergmann Hakone Gardens via Gora. It happened to be a clear May sky. Thanks to the rain the previous night, the fresh greenery was glowing, making it perfect conditions for a walk through the woods. The guests enjoyed a photo session against the backdrop of early-blooming hydrangeas that colored the garden. They fully enjoyed the session among the trees and flowers. After that, we visited Choanji Temple, and following lunch we admired the moss garden at the Hakone Museum of Art. At Gora Park, the guests enjoyed a matcha experience, allowing them to immerse themselves in the hidden charms of Hakone. Nicolai Bergmann Hakone Gardens, which we visited first, opened in 2022 and is growing in popularity as a Western-style garden where visitors can enjoy flowers and trees. Every guest I have brought here has thoroughly enjoyed the refreshing, uncrowded atmosphere. For this reason, I would like to recommend adding it to the What To Expect list. Admission is 1,800 yen per person, or 1,500 yen for advance tickets.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherHakone-Yumoto Station~Gora Station460JPY
    Section 2OtherGora Station/Hakone Tozan Bus~Nicolai Bergmann Hakone Gardens/Hakone Tozan Bus220JPY
    Section 3OtherNicolai Bergmann Hakone Gardens/Hakone Tozan Bus~Sengoku/Hakone Tozan Bus410JPY
    Section 4OtherSengoku/Hakone Tozan Bus~Gora Station/Hakone Tozan Bus510JPY
    Section 5OtherGora Station/Hakone Tozan Bus~Hakone Museum of Art・Gora Park220JPY
    Section 6OtherGora~Hakone-Yumoto460JPY
    Total2,280JPY

    My name is Kazunori Honma, I live in Odawara city near Hakone facing Pacific Ocean, so I am familiar with Mt. Fuji and Hakone area. In particular, nature, history, culture and food in the region are my specialty. I know a lot of Shinto shrines, temples, and hiking trails. Plus, I love art, so I am able to guide you to a wide variety of art museums in Mt. Fuji and Hakone area. If you are an art lover, you will be able to spend a fulfilling time with me.
    I thoroughly make preparations for your interests and needs to satisfy you with all my effort in advance. I’m sure you will definitely be happy with spending a day with me.

    Sep 25, 2026
    scottrE3713WR
    Great Mt. Fuji experience!
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kaz was amazing! Great communication before…

    Aug 27, 2026
    H694KFjoannet
    Great Day in Shimizu
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    We had a great experience with…

    Jun 4, 2026
    Companion12422328239
    Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Shizuoka Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Great views of Mt Fuji and local tea
    We had…

    May 28, 2026
    kam_g
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    The guide was very nice…
    The guide was very…

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Owakudani & Enter the Hakone Open-Air Museum

    Kanagawa in One Day: Owakudani & Enter the Hakone Open-Air Museum

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at Odawara Station
    • 9:25 Board the mountain railway at Hakone-Yumoto Station
    • 10:20 Board the cable car at Gora Station
    • 10:40 Board the ropeway at Sounzan Station
    • 10:50 Arrive at Owakudani
    • 11:20 Board the ropeway (Owakudani Station)
    • 11:50 Arrive at Gora Station
    • 12:00 Lunch at a Chinese restaurant (near Chokoku-no-Mori Station)
    • 12:50 Enter the Hakone Open-Air Museum
    • 14:10  Board the Hakone Tozan Railway (Hakone Open-Air Museum)
    • 15:15 Arrive at Odawara Station, disband

    What's a Private Hakone Day Tour Like During Golden Week? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. After I explained that heavy crowds were expected in the middle of the Golden Week holiday period, they made visits to Owakudani and the Hakone Open-Air Museum their top priorities. We started from Odawara Station at 8:30 and arrived at Owakudani before 11:00. During the transfer at Hakone-Yumoto Station, choosing to skip one mountain railway train in order to secure seats reduced stress and turned out to be a good decision. The guests were very satisfied with both Owakudani and the museum, and praised how efficiently we were able to move while long lines formed nearby. Although we visited fewer places than usual, I felt that overall the guests were very pleased.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOdawara~Owakudani6,000JPY
    Total6,000JPY

    Hello! I’m Ryosuke—please call me Leo.
    I’d love to help you create great memories in Japan, especially around Tokyo and my hometown, Hiroshima.

    I once traveled 44,000 km by bicycle across four continents (every continent except Australia!). There’s a chance I might even have passed through your hometown. Through that journey, I learned not only how wonderful travel can be, but also the things travelers should watch out for.

    With that experience, I’m sure I can help make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
    Let’s have a great time exploring Japan together!

    Sep 23, 2026
    MarouschkaV3
    Go Leo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Leo is the best guide we have…

    Aug 16, 2026
    El_Hombre_Aleman
    Great day, thank you!
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    We had a fantastic day! Ryosuke contacted…

    Aug 6, 2026
    antoinemC9893MM
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excursion d’une journée à Hakone
    Nous sommes particulièrement ravis…

    Jul 30, 2026
    BrianBurnette
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great Memories
    We really enjoyed this tour. Leo, our…

  • Hiroshima: Shukkeien Garden & Peace Memorial Park Rest House

    Hiroshima: Shukkeien Garden & Peace Memorial Park Rest House

    Tour Itinerary

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

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

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

    Sep 25, 2026
    philiprA2432ZA
    Hiroshima & Miyajima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Our guide Hiroshi picked us up…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Sygeplejersken78
    The best guide – Thank you 🙏🇯🇵🇩🇰
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    We had…

    Sep 21, 2026
    Pioneer19650761736
    You Won’t Regret Booking with Hiroshi
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had the most amazing…

    Sep 11, 2026
    stephanie782022
    Fantastic tour experience
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had such a fantastic day with Hiroshi,…

  • Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

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

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

    Transportation cost per person

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

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

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

    I look forward to seeing you in Japan!

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

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

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

  • Kanagawa in One Day: JR Kamakura Station & Kotoku-in

    Kanagawa in One Day: JR Kamakura Station & Kotoku-in

    Tour Itinerary

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

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

    Transportation cost per person

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

    I am Seizo Kamiuto, National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English). I was born in Kagoshima City in Kyushu (Southern part of Japan) and grew up there until the graduation from a high school. I came to Tokyo to enter a University in Tokyo and since then, I have lived in Tokyo for more than 40 years and therefore I know Tokyo and its suburbs and Kagoshima City very well. After retiring from an IT company, I have been working as a Guide Interpreter of English since March 2018. I have guided many overseas guests to the popular sightseeing spots in Tokyo, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji area (Kawaguchiko Lake etc.), Hakone, Nikko, Yokohama, Kawagoe and Kagoshima and so on. I have received good reviews from many guests. I can explain the history and the culture of Japan in detail. I look forward to an opportunity to guide you in Japan. Thank you. Seizo Kamiuto

    Sep 27, 2026
    jonaJ5014ZK
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Seizo was a tremendously fabulous…

    Sep 11, 2026
    M7402TTsharonp
    Higly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing tour with Seizi Kaminto.…

    Sep 8, 2026
    OnAir57127583503
    Amazing Experience with Kamakura Day Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    We had an excellent time with Seizo Kamiuto as our…

    Sep 4, 2026
    B2319ZKjoseo
    Pleasant stroll through HISTORY
    Tripadvisor review: Kawagoe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a great time learning about…

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

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tabist Ginza & Meiji Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

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

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

    Transportation cost per person

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Hyogo in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Nijo Castle

    Hyogo in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Nijo Castle

    Tour Itinerary

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

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

    Personal data
    Born in : May 1st, 1957
    Hobby : Visiting scenic places,
    historic spots, Japanese
    gardens and old townscape
    Former career : Worked for electric
    company and engaged in
    international sales for
    about 40 years.
    Travel history in the former career :
    Visited about 20 countries about 200 times

    Career as guide interpreter
    Acquisition of guide license : 2016
    Career of guide : 8 years
    Genre of my specialty :
    Japanese historic structures such as
    temple, shrine, castle and garden.
    Area of guide : Kyoto, Nara, Osaka &
    Himeji

    Let’s enjoy Japan with me !!

    Dec 30, 2024
    shannono1010
    Haru is a Rock Star
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a fantastic guide. He explained…

    Dec 29, 2024
    Ali O
    Amazing!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was amazing on our tour of Nara. He was…

    Dec 4, 2024
    D5658ZEjohnr
    Trip to some of the Kyoto sites on our visit to Japan.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with…

    Dec 3, 2024
    Charlie_Jane00
    Kyoto Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a well organised and very informative guide. He…

  • Nara in One Day: Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Deer Park

    Nara in One Day: Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Deer Park

    Tour Itinerary

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

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

    Transportation cost per person

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

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

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

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

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

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