Category: Uncategorized

  • Hiroshima in One Day: JR Hiroshima Station & JR Ferry

    Hiroshima in One Day: JR Hiroshima Station & JR Ferry

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Pick up at hotel
    • 8:21 JR Hiroshima Station
    • 8:49 JR Miyajimaguchi Station
    • 9:10-9:20 JR Ferry
    • Arrive at Miyajima
    • Lunch, Itsukushima Shrine, Omotesando Shopping Street, and more
    • 13:10-15:45 Visit Peace Memorial Park and Museum via World Heritage Sea Route
    • 15:45-16:00 Travel by taxi
    • 16:00 Disband at Hiroshima Station

    Title: What Is a Private Miyajima and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Tour Like on a Rainy Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan. The day was full of rain and cold, a complete change from the spring-like weather of just a couple of days earlier, so on Miyajima I chose an itinerary that did not require much walking and selected places that are not usually visited, which they enjoyed. After arriving at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum via the World Heritage Sea Route from Miyajima, since one of the guests had already experienced this facility and wished for the other to experience it as a learning opportunity, we ended up allotting more visiting time here than usual.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2JGA Pre-Approved FeeMiyajima Port~Peace Park1,200JPY
    Section 3TrainHiroshima Station~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Total2,040JPY

    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 One Day: Otemachi Station & Sakuradamon Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Otemachi Station & Sakuradamon Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Hotel, Ginza-itchome Station
    • 12:30 Arrive at Sakuradamon Station, tour the Imperial Palace
    • 13:15 Arrive at Otemachi Station
    • 14:00 Arrive at Asakusa Station, sightseeing (Sumida River embankment, Kaminarimon, Nakamise, Senso-ji Temple)
    • 15:00 Arrive at Asakusa Station
    • 15:30 Arrive at Meiji-jingumae Station, sightseeing (Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street)
    • 16:40 Arrive at Harajuku Station
    • 16:50 Arrive at Shibuya Station, sightseeing (Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue)
    • 17:10 Disband
    • 12:50 Arrive at Sakuradamon Station
    • 13:10 Arrive at Higashi-ginza Station, to the hotel

    Title: What Can You See on a One-Day Private Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Asakusa, Harajuku, and Shibuya Body: [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private one-day Tokyo tour for a group visiting Japan from Oceania. The first destination was the Imperial Palace, where I explained not only structural features such as the moats and stone walls but also its history as the former Edo Castle and its present role as the Imperial Palace. The guests seemed deeply impressed by its historical transformation and its scenery. Afterwards, we traveled by subway to Asakusa. Since the cherry blossoms along the Sumida River embankment were not yet in full bloom, we prioritized visiting Kaminarimon, Nakamise Street, and Senso-ji Temple, allowing the guests to experience a traditional Japanese atmosphere. We then continued by subway toward Harajuku. The guests were struck by the contrast between the solemn atmosphere of Meiji Shrine and the lively, youthful energy of Takeshita Street. Next, we moved on to Shibuya to see the Scramble Crossing and the Hachiko statue. They appeared especially moved by the story of Hachiko, who continued to wait for his master. The guests mentioned that the rain had grown heavier and that they were tired, having arrived at Haneda Airport early that morning. They requested to have a meal at a restaurant and return to their hotel early. With their agreement, we concluded the tour earlier than originally planned. Although it was their first day of sightseeing in Japan, the guests showed strong interest in each site, and overall they appeared very satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGinza-itchome~Sakuradamon180JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Meiji-jingumae260JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku~Shibuya160JPY
    Total780JPY

    Self-Background

    During my university years, I lived in a dormitory for four years and had the opportunity to live with many international students.
    Of course, we spoke English.
    After graduating from university, I started working as an English teacher at a junior high school.
    I was able to have a fun teaching life while interacting with many students. During that time, I continued to study English on my own and obtained the pre-1st grade English proficiency test.
    After that, I worked for the Board of Education as a supervisor in charge of English education, and then managed a school as a vice principal, and later principal.
    After retiring from teaching, I took the TOEIC (L&R) and achieved my highest score of 945.
    I also obtained a license as a national guide-interpreter, and began working as a guide for overseas visitors in English.
    Currently, I guide tourists to several places around the country.
    Many customers have told me that I am a good guide, saying that my guidance is easy to understand and that I have a lot of knowledge about sightseeing spots and history.
    Furthermore, I will continue to improve my skills and make efforts to give you a better experience in Japan, so please come and enjoy your trip in Japan with me.

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • ① 08:30 Meet at Hilton Kyoto
    • ② 08:40 Itinerary explanation and history of Kyoto and Gion
    • ③ 09:00 Stroll through Pontocho and Gion (Shinbashi, Shirakawa, Hanamikoji Street)
    • ④ 09:45 Kennin-ji Temple
    • ⑤ 10:40 Yasui Konpira Shrine
    • ⑥ 11:00 Ishibei-koji Alley, Ninenzaka, Sannenzaka, Yasaka Pagoda
    • ⑦ 11:45 Sanjusangendo
    • ⑧ 12:40 Disband in front of Sanjusangendo

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Kyoto's Gion and Higashiyama Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Their family had traveled to Japan the previous year and enjoyed Tokyo and Kyoto so much that the guests decided to visit as well, arriving in Japan via Asia and starting their trip in Kyoto. When I asked about their wishes, they mentioned Kennin-ji, Kodai-ji, and Kiyomizu-dera, all in the Gion, Higashiyama, and Kiyomizu areas, so I arranged a complete walking tour. Unfortunately, it was drizzling today, and as the rain grew heavier, we skipped Kodai-ji and Kiyomizu-dera and finished by visiting Sanjusangen-do. The guests listened with great interest to the history of Gion, the history of geisha, and the daily life of maiko. Both of them had read the novel "Memoirs of a Geisha," so the conversation flowed easily, and even though it is fiction, they were excited to see the places that appear in the book for the first time. I also spent time talking about the dry landscape garden and the concept of wabi-sabi at Kennin-ji. After seeing the famous folding screen of the Wind and Thunder Gods at Kennin-ji (a replica), we then viewed the original Wind and Thunder God statues at Sanjusangen-do, which made for an interesting explanation and a perfect combination. At Sanjusangen-do, everyone is overwhelmed at the sight of the 1,030 Buddhist statues before them and lets out an "Oh!" Once they had calmed down after being overwhelmed, I talked about the Buddhist worldview. The tour ended in front of Sanjusangen-do, but afterward we decided to have lunch together on a personal basis, taking a taxi back to the Kawaramachi Rokkaku area and going into an okonomiyaki restaurant. We were so absorbed in conversation that we forgot to order for 30 to 40 minutes, until the staff finally came over to ask us to place our order and we realized we hadn't ordered yet. Since we were of a similar generation, the conversation naturally went on for a long time. As they had a tea ceremony reserved from 16:30, we enjoyed the okonomiyaki and then said our goodbyes. Kennin-ji charges an admission fee for guides as well, so I have attached the receipt.

    Hello, this is Kazu Akiyama, your tour guide. Nice to meet you and welcome to Japan. Thank you for joining me on the tour. Now I am a retired salaried worker, living in Osaka. I have been very much interested in not only learning Japanese history, culture, religion myself, but also talking about them (sometimes going off topics) in English with tourists from all over the world as well. I am so excited being with you as your guide on coming day! I am very much looking forward to you enjoying with me visiting the must-see places and some of the hidden gems. See you soon. Thank you – Kazu Akiyama

    Jul 29, 2026
    James_G
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great guide and very…
    Great guide and very knowledgeable.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    peterhR6472GA
    Kyoto highlights with Kazu.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with Kazu…

    Jul 12, 2026
    cgalvez73
    Fantastic tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our guide in Kyoto was Kazu.…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Winni_H
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Highly recommended when in Kyoto
    Our tour guide…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet at Tokyu Stay Aoyama Premier
    • 2. 9:35 Imperial Palace Outer Garden & East Garden
    • 3. 11:10 Nezu Shrine
    • 4. 12:20 Rikugien Garden
    • 5. 13:05 Disband @ JR Komagome Station

    Title: What's a Private Cherry Blossom Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report At the meeting point hotel, I had told the guests I would wait in the "reception area" and waited in the lobby on the 13th floor, but the guests went to the 1st floor, so we met about 7 minutes late, though we set off with smiles. They had already arrived in Japan a few days earlier and already had a mobile PASMO, so we departed smoothly from Gaienmae Station. We joined the Inui-dori passage from the Imperial Palace Outer Garden, and when I told them, "This is usually a restricted area, but it opens only twice a year, in spring and autumn, for about 10 days each," they were delighted and said, "Lucky!" They happily took many photos of the cherry blossoms along Inui-dori. Afterward, they took many photos in the same way at the East Gardens. At Nezu Shrine, they were fascinated by the many torii gates and took videos. The guests were visiting from North America, and they mentioned that because of their appearance they were often spoken to in Japanese, and when they looked puzzled people found it suspicious. Since the Toei bus is convenient from Nezu to Rikugien, we used the Toei bus. At Rikugien, the famous weeping cherry tree was nearly in full bloom, and they took many photos enthusiastically. For lunch, they wanted to eat a hamburger at a particular restaurant in Shibuya, so I saw them to Komagome Station, confirmed the Yamanote Line platform number, and we parted in front of the ticket gate. As we said goodbye, they gave me a souvenir, and they seemed very satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGaienmae~Nijubashimae180JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Nezu180JPY
    Section 3BusNezu Shrine Entrance / Toei Bus~Kamifujimae / Toei Bus210JPY
    Total570JPY

    Hello, I’m Masaaki Kurata. I have been conducting walking tours in Asakusa, Ueno, Yanaka and the East Garden of Imperial Palace since I joined an English guide volunteer club in 2016. I worked for 2 U.S. based companies in Tokyo for 41 years and retired in 2023. I developed good communication skills with people from other countries in my long career in those 2 companies. I was born in the suburb of Tokyo and I’m familiar with Tokyo pretty much. Since I retired and do not work for a company any longer, I can be flexible in making itineraries. I really want to make tourists happy by making fun and interesting communication.

    Jun 5, 2026
    Flyer544764
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Extraordinary submersion into Japanese history and culture~
    What an extraordinary 6 hr…

    Apr 27, 2026
    Eric_K
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mac was a very good tour…
    Mac was a very good tour…

    Apr 23, 2026
    O4598GUpatriciat
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Exceptional Private Guide – Discovering the Hidden Side of Tokyo
    We had…

    Apr 2, 2026
    V742WEsusans
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Highly recommended tour
    Excellent friendly guidance from Mac. He greeted us at…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Hilton Tokyo & Ootemachi

    Tokyo in One Day: Hilton Tokyo & Ootemachi

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Hilton Tokyo (Shinjuku)
    • 8:00-8:30 Shinjuku (JR Line) – Harajyuku
    • 8:30-9:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 9:30-10:30 Harajyuku (JR Line)- Shibuya Shibuya crossing
    • 10:30-11:00 Shibuya (Ginza Line) – Ginza (Hibiya Line) – Tsukiji
    • 11:00-11:30 Tsukiji Honhanji
    • 11:30-12:30 Tsukiji Fish Market Lunch at Sushikou
    • 12:30- 13;00 Tsukiji (Hibiya Line platform1 forNakameguro) –Hibiya (Chiyada Line)
    • Nijyubashi-mae(Exit 6)
    • 13:00 – 14:00 Imperial Palace (Sakashita Gate Inui street Kitahanebashi Gate)
    • 14:00 – 14:30 Ootemachi (Touzai Line) → Kudanshita Chidori-ga-huchi Moat

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Tour of Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and Chidorigafuchi? A Guide's Report We visited Meiji Shrine and Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, where I explained to the guests the historical background of how many Japanese people came to follow both Shinto and Buddhism, and they listened with great interest. The Inui-dori promenade at the Imperial Palace was open to the public, so we walked through it and entered the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace via the Kitahanebashi-mon Gate. Afterward, we exited through the Otemon Gate and took the subway to Chidorigafuchi, where the guests enjoyed the cherry blossoms. In addition, they enjoyed their first visit to Japan, taking in the quiet atmosphere of Meiji Shrine and the sushi at a restaurant near Tsukiji Market. This sushi restaurant is located near Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple (in the outer market area), and I think it is a good choice as it is less crowded than the sushi shops inside the market.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Harajuku160JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku~Shibuya160JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji~Nijubashimae180JPY
    Section 5SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Kudanshita180JPY
    Total890JPY

    My name is Keiji Iwasaki. I am male holding the certification of National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter. The members of my family are a wife , two daughters both of whom are married and four grandchildren. I have been a researcher in the field of pharmaceuticals, foods, and cosmetics. I have experience in working in the United States for 3 years when I was thirties and have Ph.D. degree from Kyoto University in biochemistry.
    My interests are Japanese culture including Kabuki along with Japanese nature including climbing mountains such as Mt. Takao in the suburb of Tokyo and strolling Japanese traditional gardens. I also love Japanese cuisines such as Sushi and Tempura especially with beer or Japanese sake.
    Let us enjoy Japanese culture, nature, and cuisines with me during your stay in Japan.

    May 14, 2026
    wibblephil
    Great tailored tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide for Tokyo was Keiji Iwasaki and he…

    Apr 3, 2026
    Travelalerter
    Wonderful Guided Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My husband and I had a wonderful tour with…

    Mar 28, 2026
    A
    Adventure66869898889
    Good day in Tokyo.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great day with Keiji.…

    Jun 19, 2025
    C
    Cydney_A
    Great overview of the markets
    Viator review: Tsukiji Food and Toyosu Market with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was a great walking…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Dotonbori

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle & Dotonbori

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel pickup
    • 10:40 Osaka Castle
    • 12:00 Shitennoji Temple
    • 12:45 Shinsekai
    • 13:30 Dotonbori

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tour of Osaka? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from North America to Osaka Castle, Shitennoji Temple, Shinsekai, and Dotonbori. Originally we had planned to visit the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living, but because of the rainy weather, we decided to start with Osaka Castle first. Since that made Shitennoji Temple a more efficient route direction, we changed the plan accordingly. It was everyone's first time in Japan, and since they started their trip from Osaka, there was a lot that was new to them and they were very impressed. It began raining quite heavily partway through, but as it was still early in their trip, they remained in good spirits. From Dotonbori they planned to explore on their own, so I gave them directions to Shinsaibashi, where they said they wanted to go, before we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Umeda~Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 3SubwayShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka~Dobutsuen-mae190JPY
    Section 4SubwayDobutsuen-mae~Namba (Subway)190JPY
    Total810JPY

    Dear guests,

    I’m Yuko, your guide. I’m happy to guide you!

    I have lived in Osaka since I was born(almost 50 years), so I’m a Osaka master!!
    Osaka has a long history, so of course, we have some historical places, but the best thing of all is …… food!!
    I can take you not only to the castle, shrines, temples, but also to the nice restaurants or food stands where you can enjoy Osaka’s local foods

    And, Kyoto, I don’t need to say anything, but it’s the most famous place in Japan where you can know Japanese culture. Of course, I can show you around Kyoto. I have guided the guests in Kyoto many times, so you also enjoy Kyoto tour with me!

    Let’s enjoy the tour with me and have an unforgettable memory!

    May 9, 2025
    373gauravm
    Day well spent in Osaka
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yuko San is one of the best…

    Apr 21, 2025
    marianacJ7585VZ
    Fun, convenient, friendly guide around Osaka
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yuko was great at guiding us…

    Apr 4, 2025
    K8311RNlaurak
    Great sightseeing experience
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoku was a wonderful guide showing us osaka castle…

    Apr 3, 2025
    andrewfM955FU
    Amazing Guide
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The tour was a great way to see some of…

  • Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour

    Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet 8:24 Hakone-Yumoto Station mountain railway  To the Hakone Open-Air Museum After sightseeing and a light meal, 10:15 by train to Gora Station 10:31 by cable car to Sounzan, by ropeway to Owakudani  After sightseeing, 11:20 by ropeway to Togendai 12:00 pirate ship 12:40 Moto-Hakone  13:15 by bus via the new road to Hakone-Yumoto, stopping by Hotel Kajikaso to pick up luggage 14:34 by train to Odawara Station 15:50 Shinkansen Midori-no-Madoguchi ticket office 16:07 assistance purchasing tickets to Kyoto After that, disband at Odawara Station at 15:20

    Title: What Is a Private Hakone Tour Like in the Rain? A Licensed Guide's Report Although I assume there may have been some miscommunication between the guests and the travel agency, it seems the background — where the accommodation lacked a private bath and the additional night was cancelled, prompting a sudden decision to head to Kyoto today — had left them somewhat unsettled. Nevertheless, the guests stayed cheerful and accompanied me warmly throughout. Unfortunately, due to rain and fog, visibility was poor, and I felt sorry that we could not fully enjoy the scenery of Hakone. I was concerned about whether we could secure reserved seats on the bullet train during this busy season, as I wanted to avoid having them stand for the journey, so I was relieved when we managed to secure them. At the same time, we were also able to reserve seats for the trip to Hiroshima, and we parted ways with my sincere hope that the guests would enjoy the rest of their travels.

    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!!
    dummy

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

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

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

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

  • Fukuoka: Nichiren Shonin Statue & East side of Ohori Park

    Fukuoka: Nichiren Shonin Statue & East side of Ohori Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:55am Meet at Hakata Port Central Pier Cruise Center
    • 10:05am Nichiren Shonin Statue
    • 11:00am Nanzoin Temple
    • 1:10pM Lunch
    • 2:35pm North side of Ohori Park
    • 2:50pm East side of Ohori Park
    • 3:58pm Disband at Hakata Port Central Pier Cruise Center

    What Is a Rainy-Day Private Tour of Fukuoka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The day was unfortunately rainy from start to finish. The guests had been looking forward to seeing the Somei Yoshino cherry trees in full bloom, and although I showed them several early-blooming cherry trees in full bloom at Ohori Park, they did not seem fully satisfied. I was glad that I had shown them the bridge on the north side of the park and the floating pavilion in advance. The guests said this spot was beautiful. They were also moved by the reclining Buddha statue at Nanzoin Temple. In addition, in response to their request for a lunch spot offering a variety of options to choose from, the meal was delicious and the guests seemed very pleased.

    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…

  • Hiroshima in Half a Day: Hiroshima Station / Miyajima

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: Hiroshima Station / Miyajima

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hiroshima Station / Miyajima
    •     Miyajima stroll (Miyajima shopping street, torii gate, Itsukushima Shrine from outside, giant rice scoop, back streets, cafes, etc.)
    • 13:30 Miyajima / Hiroshima Station
    • 14:30 Tour ends at Hiroshima Station

    What Is a Private Rainy-Day Miyajima and Hiroshima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. It had been difficult to reach them via messaging app, but when I sent an email, I received a reply and we corresponded that way. When we met, they turned out to be very lovely people. As forecast, it rained heavily, but the tour proceeded cheerfully and pleasantly from start to finish, and the atmosphere remained wonderful right up until we said goodbye. Since we were meeting at Hiroshima Station, I had assumed they would arrive by Shinkansen, but it turned out they had already been staying at a hotel since the previous day. Because rain was forecast for the day of the tour, I contacted the guests in advance to ask them to prepare for wet weather. Since it was raining, Miyajima was uncrowded everywhere we went. One of the guests was fond of oysters and enjoyed oysters at two different spots. The shop where you can sample six kinds of Miyajima beer had rain protection in place, so everyone enjoyed the beer and snacks. I had been adjusting our schedule so we could leave the island around 1:00, but around 12:45 the guests said they wanted something to eat. Unfortunately, many shops were closed on Wednesday and we could not find anywhere, but in the end we found a café with delicious coffee and spent a pleasant time chatting happily with the local owner. When we arrived at JR Miyajimaguchi Station, the 13:47 train had just departed, and the next one was at 14:04. The tour was scheduled to end at 2:00, but I accompanied them to Hiroshima Station and ended the tour there at 14:30.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi~Hiroshima Station420JPY
    Total840JPY

    Dear guests,
    Hello! My name is Miki. I was born and brought up in Hiroshima. I enjoy traveling around Inland Sea areas and I enjoy chatting with guests from overseas!

    In Hiroshima, you can see many beautiful rivers and old bridges. Lately, I often take photos of Hiroshima city including bridges and rivers. There are not many tall buildings here, but I know some places you can visit and see the view for free. By the atomic bomb dome, there is a building called Orizuru(paper crane) Tower. You need to pay to go up to the top floor but you can see the view of Hiroshima city and the Miyajima Island(Itsukushima).

    Many tourists from overseas as well as Japan want to visit Miyajima Island. You can see a beautiful shrine from Heian Period which is around 12th century and a huge Torii gate in front of the shrine and it is in the water. There are several ways to visit the island from Hiroshima city. If you are going to stay near JR Hiroshima Station, we will visit the island by JR train and JR ferry. If you are staying in the city area, we can go there by streetcar and ferry, or there is a high-speed boat from Peace Memorial Park pier directly to the island and vise versa.

    Hoping to see you in the near future!

    Miki
    Your tour guide in Hiroshima

    May 20, 2026
    Barbgal
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Walking tour of Hiroshima – 4 hours
    It was a…

    May 16, 2026
    E8055FUjamesg
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Great day in sunny Hiroshima
    We were with Miki Nakashima,…

    Apr 5, 2026
    jacquid804
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Miki was amazing
    Miki was fabulous very informative and knowledgeable…

    Aug 19, 2025
    J
    Jemma H
    Excellent tour of Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Miyuki was a very…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Tones Osaka & Osaka Museum of History

    Osaka in Half a Day: Tones Osaka & Osaka Museum of History

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:30 Tones Osaka
    • 14:00 Osaka Museum of Housing and Living
    • 15:00 Tekijuku
    • 16:00 Osaka Museum of History
    • 17:20 Tones Osaka

    What Is a Rainy-Day Private Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today I guided a group from North America who had just arrived in Osaka the day before. Unfortunately it was rainy, so today we focused mainly on indoor facilities. At the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living, one of the guests tried on a kimono. Everyone was a little tired, but they followed along well throughout the day. I was glad the tour went as planned. It was heartwarming to hear that some of the guests had been longtime friends for many years and could still travel together like this — something I found quite enviable.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassNakazakicho~Tenjinbashisuji Rokuchome820JPY
    Total820JPY

    Bye bye smart phone!! Let’s enjoy Japan without bothering to check up your phone all the time with not AI but a local guide like me. Hi, my name is Mimmy. You may think this sounds like a kitten’s name.
    I use this nickname because it sounds cute and easy to remember. However,
    I actually look rounded, a middle aged woman more like a yellow character of M&Mchocolate, which reminds you of my name easily when you see me.
    I was born in Osaka, went to school in Kobe, went to work in Kyoto and married but still live in Osaka. I am a local, native Osakan. My 3 children are all grown up and live separately except one son. Now I live with one son and a husband in suburbs of the Osaka city.
    I like travelling, walking around the town and anything new.
    I got my guide license in 2017 and started guiding after that. I wasn’t able to work during Covid period but start guiding in 2022 again. I guide Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Kobe and have experienced more than100 tours including bus tours.
    I would like to tell you about the itineraries I usually have in each area.
    In Osaka, we usually go to Osaka castle, Shinsekai and Dotonbori Namba area.
    I think most important part you should see is Dotonbori Namba in Osaka.
    This place is vibrant , energetic, full of 3D signs and different from any other place in Japan.
    In Kyoto, we cannot see all famous sightseeing spots in one day.
    It will be better to visit each area respectively. I recommend guests who come to Kyoto first time to visit East area, Kiyomizu Temple>Sannenzaka>Ninenzaka>Ishibeikouji>Yasaka shrine> Gion area. This area has an atmosphere of traditional old Kyoto. The most Kyoto like places which suit Kimono. You can rent Kimono in a lot of places around here.
    The second place I recommend you is West area: Golden temple and Arashiyama area where Bamboo forest , Tenryuji temple, mountains and a river. There are several nice gardens in this area. If you want to enjoy the nature quietly, you
    should come here when it is not crowded (Winter is the most quiet)
    In Nara which used to be a capital even older than Kyoto, we visit Todaiji Temple where a huge Buddha is sitting inside of one of the largest wooden hall and you can play with deer everywhere in Nara. Naramachi: a small town in this area is a local place where small interesting shops are.
    In Kobe, a port city, you can visit Japanese Sake breweries, Herb garden and the top of Mt.Rokko for viewing Kobe city. A small China town is there, too.

    Now I bet you want to leave home to explore somewhere else you do not know.
    Not only going to somewhere else, we can help you to do several experiences: making tea, making Japanese sweet, making Takoyaki(food), wearing Kimono, making food samples, attending a tea ceremony, throwing Shriken like Ninja, Using bow and arrow like Samurai, , , ,
    I am very happy indeed if I can help you find things impressive enough and have once in a life time experience during our tour.
    I am looking forward to sharing a good time with you.

    Mar 24, 2025
    Jennie_N
    Ask for Mimmy
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A must if visiting the first time. Will save…

    Mar 15, 2025
    Eric B
    Wonderful Osaka castle and tour
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mimmy was a wonderful…

    Mar 12, 2025
    williampP2709MA
    Amazing time in Osaka with Mimmy
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mimmy was an amazing tour guide!…

    Oct 30, 2024
    Niaz_M
    Great choice if you have limited time in Kyoto
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a…