Category: Uncategorized

  • Yamagata in One Day: Matsugaoka Reclamation Site & Drugstore

    Yamagata in One Day: Matsugaoka Reclamation Site & Drugstore

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Pickup Suiden Terrasse
    • 8:10 Tsuruoka Station Bullet train ticket issuance
    • 9:15 Mt. Haguro Ideha Culture Memorial Hall-> Pilgrimage up the 2446 stone steps-> Summit tour, lunch-> Descending the 2446 stone steps
    • 14:20 Matsugaoka Reclamation Site
    • 15:50 Tsuruoka Park
    • 17:20 Drugstore
    • 18:00 Dismissal Suiden Terrasse

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Mount Haguro and Tsuruoka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests came seeking a spiritual experience at Mount Haguro, and they fully enjoyed walking among the cedar-lined path, touching the trees, and meditating in the forest. As the cherry blossoms happened to be in full bloom, the guests were also able to enjoy the fully blooming cherry blossoms and food stalls at Matsugaoka Reclamation Land and Tsuruoka Park, and they were very satisfied. At the end, the guests wanted to buy some medicine, so we stopped at a drugstore, but they could not find what they needed. They said they were willing to pay an extension fee for the late return of the rental car in order to visit another drugstore, so we stopped at one more before driving them to the Hotel, which meant extending the car-share by 15 minutes.

    Hello! My name is Hiromi, an experienced English-speaking tour guide based in Tsuruoka City, Yamagata Prefecture, in the heart of Japan’s Tohoku region.
    Tsuruoka is known as the gateway to the sacred Dewa Sanzan mountains, one of Japan’s most important spiritual landscapes.
    Having guided many international visitors along Mt. Haguro’s ancient cedar-lined route and its 2,446 stone steps, I enjoy bringing the mountain’s stories to life. Beyond its beautiful scenery, Mt. Haguro is filled with symbols, traditions, and beliefs that many visitors would otherwise miss. My goal is to help you understand not only what you are seeing, but also why this sacred mountain has inspired pilgrims for centuries.

    In addition to the Dewa Sanzan, I can introduce you to other unique aspects of Tsuruoka and the wider Tohoku region, including sake breweries, local food culture, traditional crafts, and hidden places that locals have treasured for generations.

    As a passionate traveler myself, I believe that the most memorable journeys come from connecting with local people and discovering the stories behind a destination. I would be delighted to help make your visit to Tsuruoka and Tohoku both meaningful and unforgettable.

    I look forward to welcoming you to this special corner of Japan!

    Apr 13, 2026
    karenbY6359QK
    Tripadvisor review: Tsuruoka & Dewa-Sanzan Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mont Haguro – Tsuruoka tour
    The tour of Mount Haguro…

  • Mie in Half a Day: Naiku

    Mie in Half a Day: Naiku

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 – 14:15 Meet up with guests, lunch
    • 14:15- 16:30 Visit Naiku (Inner Shrine)
    • 16:30 Finish boarding guests onto the bus bound for Futami

    **What Is a Private Ise Jingu Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Inner Shrine (Naiku) Guiding** The guests were a group of tour organizers along with the rest of the party. The tour organizers had been running tours of the Iseji route of the Kumano Kodo for about three years and needed a guide who was knowledgeable about Ise Jingu, so I was requested for this assignment. I guided the guests and gave a careful explanation of the Inner Shrine (Naiku). I received many questions and provided explanations each time. There had initially been a request for a Kagura performance, but after I explained the dress code and etiquette, the guests decided to decline it this time. I believe the guests' attire itself would have been fine, but because the timing could not be fixed due to considerations with other worshippers, they gave up on the idea.

    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。

  • Fukuoka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Fukuoka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel Reisen 9:45~Bus~Fukuoka Tenjin Station 10:18~Nishitetsu Train~10:47 Dazaifu Station~10:55 Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine 12:10~Dazaifu Station 12:35~Nishitetsu Train~12:37 Gojo Station~12:45 Kanzeonji Temple/Treasure Hall 13:40~Gojo Station 13:53~Nishitetsu Train~14:17 Fukuoka Tenjin Station~14:40 Kawabata Shopping Arcade~14:50 Kushida Shrine 15:15~15:20 Hakata Machiya Folk Museum 15:25~15:30 Shofukuji Temple 15:50~15:55 Tochoji Temple 16:10~16:15 Hotel

    What Is a Private Guided Tour of Fukuoka's Shrines and Temples Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Since the guests wanted to spend more time at shrines and temples, we discussed it and decided to skip the bronze bell at the Kyushu National Museum. The guests asked very eager questions about the meaning of the etiquette at shrines. They also listened attentively to explanations about the history of Kanzeonji Temple and the influences of the Mongol invasions and the Warring States period. The guests thoroughly enjoyed umegae-mochi and ramen at a local restaurant. At Shofukuji Temple they showed great interest in the features of Zen Buddhist temples, and they were amazed by the decorative float at Kushida Shrine and the oiyama race at Kawabata shopping street. At a department store food hall in Tenjin, they purchased four cans of Yame matcha. They were also very pleased when I introduced a seafood restaurant for dinner and an udon shop for the following days.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusGionmachi (Fukuoka City)/Nishitetsu Bus~Tenjin 1-chome (Fukuoka City)/Nishitetsu Bus150JPY
    Section 2TrainNishitetsu Fukuoka~Dazaifu480JPY
    Section 3TrainDazaifu~Nishitetsu Gojo180JPY
    Section 4TrainNishitetsu Gojo~Nishitetsu Fukuoka420JPY
    Total1,230JPY

    Experienced guide in Tokyo, Kanto, Kansai, Chugoku and Kyushu as lived in Tokyo, Yokohama, Kyoto, Shiga, Wakayama, Yamaguchi, Fukuoka and Kumamoto. Can introduce favorite local restaurants and shops in these areas. Flexible and tailored itinerary is available with car transport transportation. Can escort outdoor activities such as fishing and hiking. Can provide private tours at Sake breweries in Fukuoka and Saga area with personal networks. Respect and adapt to diverse cultures and religions as worked with colleagues around the world for 38 years.

    Sep 19, 2026
    Romy_B
    Kagoshima guided tour with driver
    Viator review: Kagoshima Shore Excursion: Custom Car Tour, Licensed Guide
    Everyone in our group agreed this…

    Sep 2, 2026
    Lee_T
    A wonderful day in Port
    Viator review: Kagoshima Shore Excursion: Custom Car Tour, Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful private tour…

    Jun 7, 2026
    Kim_K
    Viator review: Kagoshima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Beautiful, insightful and memorable!
    We definitely had a beautiful, insightful and memorable…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:30 Meet at The Westin Tokyo
    • 2. 10:15 Imperial Palace (Outer Garden, East Gardens)
    • 3. 12:40 Asakusa (Nakamise Shopping Street, Senso-ji Temple)
    • 4. 13:40 Lunch at Ramen Watanabe
    • 5. 14:40 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 6. 15:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 7. 15:45 Disperse at Harajuku Station

    What Are Tokyo's Must-Visit Spots? A Licensed Guide's Private One-Day Tour Report The guest was visiting from North America and had been to Japan once before, but it was their first time in Tokyo. Since there had been a request in advance to show Tokyo's "Must-visit spots," I guided them along the classic sightseeing route. As the guest expressed an interest in Japanese history and culture, I explained in detail the relationship between the shogun and the emperor, Buddhism and Shinto, and the history of the Imperial Palace, which they were very pleased with. For lunch, the guest wished to have ramen, so I took them to a ramen shop in Asakusa, and received the comment, "This was the most delicious ramen I have ever had." The weather was also wonderful, and I believe the guest was able to fully enjoy the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayEbisu~Hibiya210JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Shibuya260JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya~Harajuku160JPY
    Total810JPY

    Hi, I am Nobu, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English).
    I have been an English guide in Tokyo area since January 2017.
    Tokyo is a wonderful city, and you may enjoy this city by yourselves.
    Even so, I recommend you go around with a guide, especially if it is your first time visit to Tokyo.
    A good guide will help you to understand about Tokyo and Japan as well as how to use convenient but complicated public transportations more effectively.
    I am glad if I can help you to make your tour more enjoyable.
    I am looking forward to meeting you in Tokyo soon!
    Nobu

    Jun 2, 2026
    amandavW9846AW
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Tokyo day trip!
    We had a wonderfull day with Nobu! He…

    May 25, 2026
    Matthew_C
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nobu was an excellent and…
    Nobu was an excellent and informative guide…

    May 24, 2026
    Diane D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Pleasant Intro to Tokyo
    Nobu was an experienced and informative guide.…

    Apr 28, 2026
    GrandTour57165664797
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Awesome!
    It was our first visit to Japan. Nobu was very knowledgeable…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Akihabara

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Akihabara

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 Meet up @ Hotel Nishi-Shinjuku
    • 08:40 Shibuya Scramble Crossing・Hachiko
    • 09:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 10:20 Imperial Palace
    • 11:10 Lunch @ Numazu Uogashi Sushi (Marunouchi Building)
    • 12:20 Senso-ji Temple
    • 13:15 Akihabara
    • 14:15 Disband @ Hotel Nishi-Shinjuku

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, Asakusa, and Akihabara The guests were visitors from North America who planned to go on a cruise after their sightseeing in Tokyo. At Meiji Shrine, they seemed impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere, which was very different from Shibuya. They also purchased several amulets as souvenirs. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with great interest to historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo shogunate. For lunch, they enjoyed sushi and sashimi. At Senso-ji Temple, they listened with great interest to historical explanations about the difference between temples and shrines, as well as Kaminarimon Gate. In Akihabara, they purchased a charger for a mobile phone at a large electronics store. Since I responded to the guests' requests as they wished, I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNishi-Shinjuku~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya~Harajuku160JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 4TrainTokyo~Ueno200JPY
    Section 5SubwayUeno~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 6SubwayAsakusa~Suehirocho (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 7TrainAkihabara~Yotsuya200JPY
    Section 8SubwayYotsuya~Nishi-Shinjuku180JPY
    Total1,490JPY

    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: Hamarikyu & Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Tokyo: Hamarikyu & Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at Hotel
    • 9:15 Hamarikyu
    • 10:50 Asakusa (Skytree photo)
    • 11:15 Snack @Kaminari Issa Denbouin-dori Store
    • 12:30 Lunch @Irori-an Kiraku Soba Ueno
    • 13:30 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 15:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:50 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 16:35 Disband at Shinjuku Golden Gai

    Title: What Is a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather was fine, warm enough to break a sweat, and the tour proceeded smoothly. At Hamarikyu, several varieties of late-blooming cherry blossoms were in beautiful bloom, and with few crowds, I thought this would be a good place to guide during this season going forward. In Asakusa we had matcha, and we went into a convenience store planning to buy snacks, but the guests wanted to sit down for a meal, so I took them to a soba restaurant in Ueno. We continued on to the Imperial Palace and Meiji Shrine, and on Takeshita Street the guests were very curious about places like the piglet cafe, but due to time constraints we headed to Golden Gai without going in. Few shops were open, but I gave a short tour before we finished. Tip received.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSuidobashi~Shimbashi200JPY
    Section 2TrainShimbashi~Asakusa220JPY
    Section 3Free PassAsakusa~Ueno700JPY
    Section 4Free PassUeno~Takebashi0JPY
    Section 5Free PassOtemachi~Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 6Free PassMeiji-jingumae~Shinjuku-sanchome0JPY
    Total1,120JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shibuya Station & Tsukiji Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Shibuya Station & Tsukiji Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meeting place: Hotel
    • 8:10 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 8:50 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Senso-ji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise-dori Shopping Street
    • 9:30 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 9:40 Arrive Ueno Station
    • Ueno Tokyo National Museum
    • 10:40 Depart Ueno Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 11:00 Arrive Nippori Station
    • Nippori Yanaka Ginza
    • 11:30 Depart Sendagi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 11:40 Arrive Nezu Station
    • Nezu Nezu Shrine
    • 12:30 Depart Nezu Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Hibiya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • 13:00 Arrive Tsukiji Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Uogashi
    • Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 13:40 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Ginza Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 14:00 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • 14:00 Disband: Shibuya Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo in the Rain? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Ueno, Yanaka, and Tsukiji The guest was a visitor from North America, traveling in Japan for the first time. They had arrived about a week earlier and were traveling in Japan alone. The stay in Japan was only eight days, and they had already visited Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara. The previous day they had taken a day trip to Mount Fuji, and they planned to depart from Haneda Airport the next day. The guest mentioned, "I couldn't enjoy the cherry blossoms in the Kansai area. Today I'd like to see at least a little bit of the blossoms." It was a slightly chilly tour with light rain falling throughout. First, we went to Asakusa. We started in front of Kaminarimon Gate. I explained about "Sensoji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo," "what the five-story pagoda is for," "what Buddhism is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." We took commemorative photos in front of Kaminarimon, the five-story pagoda, and various other spots. The weeping cherry blossoms on the temple grounds had mostly fallen. We took a leisurely stroll through the crowded Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as, "What are the main religions in Japan?", "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", and "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people believe in?" There was also a question: "I see many people wearing kimono on the temple grounds. Why is that? Are they all Japanese?" The guest purchased a large number of "omamori" (amulets) as souvenirs for their grandchildren. We moved on to Ueno and the National Museum. The guest said, "I'm very interested in Japanese history." They seemed especially fond of Buddhist statues and Buddhist paintings, and said, "I now understand Japan's long history well." Here again, they purchased "ukiyo-e postcards" and "folding fans" as souvenirs for their grandchildren. We moved on to the Yanesen area. We strolled through the streets of Yanaka Ginza. I explained "the history and current state of Yanaka." The guest said, "I could imagine what old Japan was like." Then we went to Tsukiji. Despite the light rain, it was quite crowded. After taking a quick look around Tsukiji Uogashi, we took a leisurely stroll through the outer market. I explained about "the history of the fish market since the Edo period" and "the difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji outer market." There were questions and comments such as, "Do all Tokyo residents come here to buy fish?" and "It's crowded, but it does seem like there are a lot of tourists." The guest wanted to try something to eat, so they tried "tuna sushi." The guest mentioned that their family members love "oysters" and "crab," and that one enjoys fishing as a hobby, going out to sea by boat every day. The guest said, "Next year, I will definitely bring my family and come back again." There were comments and questions such as, "Tokyo is so clean, with no litter on the streets," "The public restrooms are clean," "There are no trash bins on the streets. Why is that?", "Everyone is quiet on the trains," and "I don't see any homeless people." I saw the guest off at Shibuya Station, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShibuya~Asakusa260JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa~Ueno180JPY
    Section 3TrainUeno~Nippori160JPY
    Section 4OtherSendagi~Nezu180JPY
    Section 5TrainNezu~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 6TrainTsukiji~Shibuya210JPY
    Total1,170JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kyoto & Shijo

    Kyoto in One Day: Kyoto & Shijo

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet @ Kyoto Station
    • 10:07-10:13 Kyoto→Inari 150 yen JR
    • 10:20-11:20 Sightseeing at Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 11:25-11:59 Inari→Saga-Arashiyama JR 240 yen
    • 12:20-13:30 Arashiyama sightseeing (Tenryu-ji Temple, Bamboo Grove Path, Kimono Forest, etc.)
    • 13:40-14:30 Lunch @ Gyatei
    • 14:57-15:19 Arashiyama→Kyoto Kawaramachi Hankyu 240 yen
    • 15:30-15:50 Stroll through Nishiki Market
    • 15:53→16:00 Shijo→Kyoto Subway 220 yen
    • 16:10 Disband @ JR Kyoto Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Kyoto Day Tour with a Licensed Guide? Fushimi Inari and Arashiyama Itinerary The guests were visitors from North America. They arrived in Japan by cruise ship and came by train from Kobe, so we arranged to meet at the ticket gate of Kyoto Station. I guided them to Fushimi Inari Taisha and Arashiyama. At Fushimi Inari, I explained the meaning of the torii gates, the different types of shrines, and how shrines differ from temples. In Arashiyama, we walked from the bamboo grove into Tenryu-ji Temple, where the guests enjoyed the seasonal flowers and the beautiful gardens. For lunch, we dined at a restaurant, where they enjoyed their meal while checking the English menu. We crossed the Togetsukyo Bridge, and from Hankyu Arashiyama we finally visited Nishiki Market before taking the subway back to Kyoto Station, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainInari~Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama (Hankyu Line)~Kyoto Kawaramachi240JPY
    Section 4SubwayShijo (Kyoto Municipal)~Kyoto220JPY
    Total850JPY

    Hello! I am Andy Murao. I love this job as I can visit various destinations with the people from all over the world. I am always thinking that I could help you know more about Japan and understand the attractiveness of Japan.

    I would like to provide a tour in accordance with your request and preference. Please let me know what you want to see, eat, experience, etc. and then I will propose a schedule based on them.

    There is one point to note. I like walking very much, so I might be a guide who forces you to take long walks.

    I look forward to attending you in Japan.

    Best regards,

    Andy Murao

    Sep 20, 2026
    Bobby_B
    A great Kyoto guide.
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Andy was very nice and…

    Jul 13, 2026
    webstere2025
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent
    Andy(Atsushi) was great and communicated with us beforehand about our…

    Jun 21, 2026
    Catherine_D
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in Osaka
    Andy was great . On time and patience…

    Jun 6, 2026
    eyeessess
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour!
    Andy Murao was an amazing and wonderful tour guide.…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Shukkeien Garden & Daishoin Temple

    Hiroshima in One Day: Shukkeien Garden & Daishoin Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:50 a.m. Meet at the Shinkansen exit of Hiroshima Station
    • 9:10 a.m. Visit Shukkeien Garden
    • 9:40 a.m. Visit Hiroshima Castle
    • 10:15 a.m. Visit Peace Memorial Park and Peace Memorial Museum
    • 12:30 p.m. Lunch at an Okonomiyaki restaurant
    • 1:30 p.m. Take a direct ferry to Miyajima
    • 2:15 p.m. Arrive at Miyajima Island
    • 2:30 p.m. Visit Itsukushima Shrine
    • 3:00 p.m. Visit Daishoin Temple
    • 4:30 p.m. Take a ferry and JR train back to Hiroshima station
    • 5:30 p.m. End of the tour at Hiroshima Station

    What's a Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They mentioned that they had decided on Japan as their destination after seeing posts on social media. They enjoyed cute characters and even showed me some character goods they had purchased in Tokyo. Since they said walking was no problem and they arrived early, I asked about their preferences and added Shukkeien Garden and Hiroshima Castle to the route. Although the peak bloom had passed at Shukkeien Garden, some cherry blossoms still remained, which they were delighted to see. They were also charmed by the many turtles basking in the sun. I offered to take many photos on their phones, and they were very pleased. It was their first time seeing a castle in Japan at Hiroshima Castle, and they happily took photos. They also loved matcha, so I guided them to Soko Cafe, which they enjoyed. At the Peace Memorial Park, they listened especially intently to the stories about children affected by the atomic bombing and the story of Sadako Sasaki, and they spent a long time carefully viewing the exhibits at the museum. They also enjoyed the okonomiyaki for lunch, saying it was their favorite dish since coming to Japan. The weather was fine, and they were very pleased with Miyajima as well, taking many photos there too. I also guided them to a character goods shop in the shopping arcade, which they enjoyed, and they did some shopping there. I helped them purchase their return Shinkansen tickets at Hiroshima Station, guided them to the Pokémon Center, and ended the tour. The guests were both calm with lovely smiles, and it was an honor to guide them on such a special trip.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMiyajimaguchi~Hiroshima420JPY
    Section 2OtherPeace Memorial Park~Miyajima1,200JPY
    Total1,620JPY

    Hello. My name is Mari.
    I am a certified local tour guide in Hiroshima.

    I was born and grew up in Hiroshima until I entered in a university in Tokyo.
    After 6 years in Tokyo, I came back to Hiroshima because I really love my hometown and wanted to spend the rest of my life here.

    Hiroshima is very comfortable city to live in and rich in nature.
    I am so happy that I have been able to raise my kids here.

    Hiroshima is absolutely full of beautiful and historically important places and also the great food.
    I am so excited to introduce the wonderful experiences here in Hiroshima and hope you will come to love this place, too.
    Look forward to meeting you.

    Sep 26, 2026
    F1357GRpaulg
    Hiroshima and Miyajima.
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Mari was a delightful guide. We…

    Sep 29, 2026
    Matthew_T
    Do not miss this tour of Hiroshima
    Viator review: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    This was fantastic. Mari…

    Sep 28, 2026
    Passport734191
    As good as it gets in Hiroshima!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    Mari was a very…

    Jul 27, 2026
    Jen_S21
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    The highlight of our trip!
    Mari was an excellent…

  • Hyogo in One Day: Egret Himeji Rooftop & Mount Shosha / Engyo-ji

    Hyogo in One Day: Egret Himeji Rooftop & Mount Shosha / Engyo-ji

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet @ JR Himeji Station
    • 09:15 @ Egret Himeji Rooftop
    • 09:30 @ Himeji Castle
    • 12:00 @ Koko-en Garden
    • 13:15 @ Mount Shosha / Engyo-ji Temple
    • 15:30 Disband @ JR Himeji Station

    What Is a Private Himeji Castle Tour Like in Cherry Blossom Season? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. The tour proceeded at a somewhat slower pace, and additional time was needed along the way. As a guide, I felt the group was focused on other matters, and I was not confident that my explanations came across fully. At Himeji Castle, the cherry blossoms had already passed peak bloom, with some petals beginning to fall and the trees turning to green leaves. I presented the group with a handmade drawstring pouch, which was received with delight. As a guide, this particular tour was unfortunately not as satisfying as I would have hoped. I also felt that the destinations chosen this time may not have been well suited to everyone in the group.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherMount Shosha Summit Mini Bus Stop~Maniden Hall500JPY
    Total500JPY

    Dear my guests,

    This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
    I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
    real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
    if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

    Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
    that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
    and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
    foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
    Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
    explanation for these three foods.

    1) Tako-yaki
    Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
    octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
    2) Okonomi-yaki
    This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
    Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
    3) Kushi-katsu
    Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
    ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

    Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
    that you like them very much.

    I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
    and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
    great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

    Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
    Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
    Yama

    Sep 27, 2026
    Ross_W
    Fun with Hidden Gems
    Viator review: Osaka Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path Tour, Licensed Guide
    Our guide Yama was so…

    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Great experience
    Yama was great, he showed us around and explained…

    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…