Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    February, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at Andaz Tokyo
    • 9:00 Tsukiji
    • 10:15 Asakusa (Skytree photo)
    • 11:35 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 12:45 Snack @Seven Palace Building
    • 13:20 Meiji Shrine
    • 14:10 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 14:20 Disband at Harajuku Takeshita Street

    Title: What Is a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather was cloudy throughout the day, but there was no rain, and it was pleasantly mild, making for a nice day for the tour. We met on the ground floor of the Hotel, and when I asked about transportation, the guests wanted to buy a 72-hour subway pass, so I guided them through purchasing it online, and we started. At Tsukiji, they saw the market, ate fried food in the outer market area, took many photos, and seemed very satisfied. After finishing Asakusa, at the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, plum blossoms were in bloom along with a few cherry blossoms, and they took many photos. After eating a snack on a subway bench, we proceeded to Meiji Shrine and Takeshita Street, and when the time came, the guests said, "We will shop here and head back on our own," so the tour ended. I received a tip.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassToranomon Hills～Tsukiji700JPY
    Section 2Free PassTsukiji～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 3Free PassAsakusa～Takebashi0JPY
    Section 4Free PassOtemachi～Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Total700JPY

    Tour Report by Koba

    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.

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    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…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    February, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 10:00 Tour starts from the hotel
    • Transfer by railway to Fushimi Inari
    • AM 10:40- PM12:00 Fushimi Inari sightseeing
    • Transfer by railway and bus to Kiyomizu-dera via Yasaka Pagoda
    • PM 12:30- PM 14:00 Kiyomizu-dera sightseeing
    • Transfer on foot to Gion
    • PM 14:20- 15:00 Kennin-ji sightseeing
    • PM 15:00 -16:00 Guide through Gion, Gion Shirakawa, and Shinbashi, tour ends at Sanjo

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America on a trip to Japan. One of them had visited Kyoto once about 20 years ago but seemed to remember very little of it. Their requests were Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, the Yasaka Pagoda, and Gion, but since they also wanted to see a rock garden, we decided to stop by Kennin-ji, which they greatly enjoyed. Photography seemed to be a shared interest, and they each photographed whatever caught their eye using an old analog camera. It was interesting to see how the subjects they chose to capture differed from one another.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto City Hall～Kyoto260JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 3TrainFushimi Inari～Tofukuji180JPY
    Section 4BusTofukuji／Kyoto City Bus～Kiyomizu-michi／Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total820JPY

    Tour Report by YOSHI

    Hello , My name is Hideharu Yoshino . Just call me” Yoshi” .
    I have been involved with many foreign Business partners through my business life for 38 years ,
    Based on my work experience , I would like to try my best to make you comfortale and Happy fruitful times during your stay in Japan .
    Not only giving you basic tourist information about famous sightseeing spot , also I would enjoy to give you the back ground inofrmation in my word.
    ” Once in a lifetime encounter ” Let’s enjoy with me Miracle time to be picked up from 6 billion in somewhere Japan!

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    Jul 25, 2026
    Ann W
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Incredible tour, one of the highlights of my…

    Jul 18, 2026
    Geert73
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Well-Organized and Informative Tour of Kanazawa
    We, a…

    Jul 15, 2026
    G5010ZVmelodys
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Local Food & Tea Culture Tour with Licensed Guide
    Number one guide for personalised touring of Kanazawa
    Our…

    Jul 11, 2026
    rikkes490
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Rigtig god guidet tur
    Rigtig god oplevelse og gode forklaringer

    とても良いガイドツアーでした。
    とても良い体験でした。説明も分かりやすく、とても良かったです。

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    February, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet at Hyatt Centric Ginza
    • 2. 10:45 Nezu Shrine ~ Yanaka Ginza
    • 3. 12:10 Ueno Ameya Yokocho
    • 4. 12:40 Sensoji Temple
    • 5. 13:30 Lunch at Asakusa Umaimon Azuma
    • 6. 14:50 Harajuku (Meiji Jingu Shrine, Harajuku Street)
    • 7. 16:05 Disband at Omotesando Station

    What Does a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan from North America, and had finally been able to make their long-awaited first trip to Japan, after an earlier planned visit had been cancelled at the last minute due to the impact of the Great East Japan Earthquake. On this day, there was a general public visit to the Imperial Palace due to a national holiday, so I avoided the Outer Gardens of the Imperial Palace and had planned to visit only the East Gardens. However, I found that they were closed despite the holiday, so we changed our plans and headed to Nezu Shrine instead. After that, we followed a fairly standard course and ended the tour at Omotesando. It was a very warm day. I believe the guests enjoyed the tour itself.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGinza～Nezu180JPY
    Section 2TrainNippori～Ueno150JPY
    Section 3SubwayUeno-hirokoji～Asakusa180JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa～Meiji-jingumae260JPY
    Section 5SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Omotesando180JPY
    Total950JPY

    Tour Report by Nobu

    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

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    February, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Hotel Meet
    • 10:00 Miyajima
    • 13:00 Lunch
    • 14:00 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 17:00 Atomic Bomb Dome, Dismissal

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I had the pleasure of guiding a group visiting from Oceania. Careful attention was paid to the meals throughout the day. Conversation flowed naturally as we discovered a shared point between Hiroshima and their home city — both being places that developed around a river — and the day began in a warm, relaxed atmosphere. For lunch, the guests enjoyed an okonomiyaki restaurant on the mainland side with a view of the sea. At the Peace Memorial Museum, our conversation extended to the current international situation and conflicts around the world, and we exchanged views on the future of Japan and Oceania, making it a very meaningful time.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusAtomic Bomb Dome～Nishi-Hiroshima240JPY
    Section 2TrainNishi-Hiroshima～Miyajimaguchi330JPY
    Section 3TrainMiyajimaguchi～Nishi-Hiroshima330JPY
    Section 4BusNishi-Hiroshima～Atomic Bomb Dome240JPY
    Total1,140JPY

    Tour Report by Yuji

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Hiromine Shrine & Egret Himeji Rooftop

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Hiromine Shrine & Egret Himeji Rooftop

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    February, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet @ JR Himeji Station
    • 09:30 @ Hiromine Shrine
    • 10:15 @ Kokoen Garden
    • 10:45 @ Himeji Castle
    • 12:30 @ Egret Himeji Rooftop
    • 12:45 Disband @ JR Himeji Station

    Title: What Is a Private Himeji Castle Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a visitor from Oceania. The guest walked very quickly and moved smoothly throughout the tour, allowing us to keep a good pace. It was difficult to gauge exactly which sights the guest was most interested in, but the guest clearly enjoyed Himeji Castle very much. The guest was also delighted by the panoramic view of Himeji Castle from the rooftop of Egret Himeji, which we visited on the way back. As the guest wished to return early to the hotel in Kyoto, I assisted with purchasing a Shinkansen ticket at Himeji Station, and we parted ways with about 15 minutes to spare.

    Click here for more details: Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Yama

    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

    Request Booking

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

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

    Jul 13, 2026
    Diane_B
    Viator review: Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Yama was amazing!!
    Our tour guide…

    Jul 4, 2026
    Navigator661725
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful time!
    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…

  • Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Sagano Tour

    Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Sagano Tour

    Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Sagano Tour with Licensed Guide

    February, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at hotel　9:20 Take a taxi from Keifuku Arashiyama Station　　9:35 Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple　　10:15 Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple　　11:00 Gio-ji Temple　11:25 Okochi Sanso Villa　12:10 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove　12:30 Short break (lunch)　13:20 Togetsukyo Bridge　13:50 Tenryu-ji Temple　　14:45 Escort to hotel and tour ends

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Kyoto's Arashiyama and Sagano Area Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests visited Japan from North America. They were an active group, with plans to take part in the Tokyo Marathon and had been training together beforehand. For sightseeing in the Arashiyama and Sagano area, we took a taxi from Randen Arashiyama Station to Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple. From Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, we walked continuously without a break to Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple, Gio-ji Temple, Okochi Sanso Villa, the Bamboo Grove, and back to Randen Arashiyama Station. After a rest, we went to Togetsukyo Bridge and then visited Tenryu-ji Temple. They had originally hoped to see the Monkey Park but in the end decided not to go. Afterwards, I guided them to their hotel and the tour concluded. The photo was taken at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple.

    Click here for more details: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Sagano Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKarasuma Oike～Uzumasa Tenjingawa260JPY
    Section 2OtherUzumasa Tenjingawa～Randen Arashiyama250JPY
    Section 3OtherRanden Arashiyama～Uzumasa Tenjingawa250JPY
    Section 4OtherUzumasa Tenjingawa～Karasuma Oike260JPY
    Total1,020JPY

    Tour Report by KAZU

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

    Request Booking

    Jul 24, 2026
    Trail65429092687
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Tour
    Kazua Sumi is a very accomplished guide.He has deep…

    Jul 23, 2026
    489caelinp
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Guided Tour
    My friend and I had a great experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    margaretsM7923ON
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Great way to see Kyoto
    Wonderful tour and exceptional guide.

    Jul 9, 2026
    Sandra_B
    Kazuo was great and…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazuo was great and provided…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    February, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 11:30 Meet in front of TeamLab Planet
    • 2. 12:00 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 3. 13:30 Imperial Palace (Outer Garden, East Garden)
    • 4. 15:30 Akihabara
    • 5. 17:25 Disband at Akihabara (Isomaru Suisan)

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, the Imperial Palace, and Akihabara The guests were a group visiting from North America, who planned to stay in Tokyo for a few days after visiting Niseko and Kyoto. It was my first time going to the Tsukiji Outer Market on a weekend, and I was surprised to find it just as lively as on a weekday. Many of the food-related shops were open, and the guests enjoyed sampling various dishes as they walked around. At the Imperial Palace, it was a bit unfortunate that the area around Nijubashi Bridge was closed off in preparation for the following day's public visit, but we were able to explore the other areas without any trouble. After exploring Akihabara, the guests requested to see beer at the end, so I took them to a seafood izakaya to finish the tour. It was a very warm day, and I believe the guests fully enjoyed the tour.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusToyosu Station / Toei Bus～Tsukiji 6-chome / Toei Bus210JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji～Hibiya180JPY
    Section 3SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)～Suehirocho (Tokyo)180JPY
    Total570JPY

    Tour Report by Nobu

    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

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Himeji Castle & Nadagiku Sake Brewery

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Himeji Castle & Nadagiku Sake Brewery

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    February, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet @ JR Himeji Station
    • 11:45 @ Himeji Castle
    • 14:15 @ Koko-en Garden
    • 15:15 @ Nadagiku Sake Brewery
    • 16:00 Disband @ JR Himeji Station

    What Is a Private Himeji Castle Tour Like on Himeji Marathon Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America who had been living in Japan for two years. Today the annual Himeji Marathon was being held, and the area was crowded with a large number of people. Since Himeji Castle served as both the start and finish point, the surrounding area was subject to extensive traffic restrictions (including for pedestrians), so visiting Himeji Castle and Koko-en Garden from Himeji Station, which normally takes about 15 minutes, took around 30 to 40 minutes today. When taking a taxi toward Nadagiku Sake Brewery, we also had to wait about 15 minutes due to the traffic restrictions. The guests viewed each spot with great interest and listened attentively to the guide's explanations. At Nadagiku Sake Brewery, they enjoyed a sake tasting and purchased some souvenirs. Note) I regret that I had insufficient advance information about today's Himeji Marathon. (I had not anticipated such extensive traffic restrictions, and we were forced to walk a considerable distance. In fact, the guests commented that walking this much would be difficult for some visitors.) Koko-en Garden offered free admission today.

    Click here for more details: Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Yama

    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

    Request Booking

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

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

    Jul 13, 2026
    Diane_B
    Viator review: Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Yama was amazing!!
    Our tour guide…

    Jul 4, 2026
    Navigator661725
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful time!
    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    February, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1000 Meet at ANA InterContinental Tokyo
    • 1115 Shibuya – Hachiko Statue – Scramble Crossing
    • 1135 Shinjuku – 3D Cat Display – Godzilla Head – Omoide Yokocho
    • 1115 Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Floor
    • 1225 Koishikawa Korakuen
    • 1345 Imperial Palace Outer Garden – Tatsumi Yagura – Gyoko-dori – Marunouchi Building Pine Piles – Tokyo Station
    • 1500 Asakusa – Azuma Bridge – Kaminarimon – Kannon-dori – Late lunch at Tanaka Soba Shop – Nakamise – Sensoji Temple – Asakusa Shrine
    • 1615 Disband within the Sensoji Temple grounds

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from South America. The pickup was originally scheduled for 8:00, but at 5:00 in the morning I received a message through a messaging app saying that the reservation time for the Asakusa sumo club they had booked had been set for 18:00, and asking whether the tour, which was due to end in Asakusa, could be pushed later. When I confirmed whether they wanted an extension or a shift in timing, they confirmed they wanted to move everything back by two hours, which resulted in the itinerary above. They had entered Japan via Asia after two nights there, arriving in Japan for the first time the previous night. They had only today in Tokyo, with Mount Fuji planned for the following day, followed by the Kansai region, making for a fairly busy itinerary. One of the guests was comfortable in English, while another could understand a little English but spoke very little, so translation was provided among the group as needed. Above all, their main goal was taking photos, and they had a long to-do list. They were satisfied to catch even a faint glimpse of Tokyo Tower from the Imperial Palace Outer Garden and took photos. They had wanted to see cherry blossoms, but I explained it was not yet the season and offered the plum grove at Koishikawa Korakuen as an alternative. However, the early-blooming cherry trees on the grounds of Sensoji Temple were about 80% in bloom, which delighted them greatly. We parted ways just after 16:00, but since they planned to visit a character goods shop (which was mentioned suddenly, but I found it had opened on Orange Street) and do some other shopping, I expect they enjoyed themselves until 18:00.

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    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTameike-Sanno～Shibuya900JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya～Shinjuku170JPY
    Section 3Free PassShinjuku West Exit～Tochomae0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTochomae～Iidabashi0JPY
    Section 5Free PassIidabashi – Kasuga～Otemachi0JPY
    Section 6TrainTokyo～Ueno170JPY
    Section 7Free PassUeno～Asakusa0JPY
    Total1,240JPY

    Tour Report by Ted

    I had worked in the international business scene for over 40 years and traveled to North America and European countries over 1000 days.
    After I retired from the business, I traveled to most of the major sightseeing spots in all 47 prefectures in Japan.

    My guide is starting from a brief history of the site where I am going to guide. I usually add a briefing about Japanese culture based on religions, such as Shinto Shrine and Buddhist temples. A geographic background behind the history is also important.
    My course includes 4 to 5 (in 6 hours) sites from the following depending on where I will pick the guests up;
    – Senso ji Temple
    – Kappabashi Kitchenware Market
    – Tokyo Skytree
    – Ueno Park
    – Nezu Shrine
    – Imperial Palace outer park
    – Tokyo Central Station, Marunouchi historic district
    – Tsukiji Fish Market
    – Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    – Ginza
    – Odaiba
    – Hama Rikyu Garden
    – Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
    – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
    – Roppongi
    – Meiji Shrine
    – Harajuku & Takeshita Street
    – Shibuya
    – and Any of your interest.

    I am happy to introduce Japanese Manga/Anime cultures such as Akihabara, Nakano Broadway and Ghibli related sites.
    Travelling along the JR central line where guests can stopover at major animation studios (it is not accepted to visit the inside). The majority of animation studios such as TMS Entertainment, SUNRISE, A1 Pictures etc. are located in this area. Suginami Animation museum, Studio Ghibli and Ghibli Museum are also located.
    Guests can feel old houses in the Spirited Away scene in the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.

    I can also provide a pilgrimage to the sacred place (shooting location) for the Shinkai Makoto animation movies such as Your name, Weathering with you, and Suzume.

    Another interesting feature is to visit authentic Japanese style pub meals such as Yakitori, Karaage, and Sushi etc.
    Asakusa Hoppy Street, Ameyoko Street, Yurakucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku Golden gai, Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho are nice to visit.

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

    In addition to the above, I am available in the neighboring cities.

    Kawagoe is an old town developed in the 17th century. It has very close relationship with the Edo central government. Kawagoe castle ruins, Kitain temple and 500 Buddha statues will welcome the guests.
    These areas are renovated and provide an old days atmosphere.
    Japanese style sweets food stands will fascinate the guests.
    Kawagoe is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    Kamakura is the first Samurai worriers government established in the late 12th century.
    The Buddhism are introduced to Japan in the 6th century, and flourished at Nara and Kyoto later. A newer Buddhism sect such as Zen has well developed at Kamakura area.
    Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Gigantic Buddha statue at Kotokuin Temple and the flower temple Hasedera Temple are must-see.
    Kamakura is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    I am also happy to develop any other site the guests have interest.

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    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

    Jun 26, 2026
    ann r
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Educational with kind, generous guide
    My teenage sons and I learned…

    Jun 14, 2026
    141yunb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
    We…

    May 18, 2026
    B
    Beth56646
    Great tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Ted and I agreed upon what we would see…

  • Nagasaki Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagasaki Customized Half-Day Tour

    Nagasaki Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    February, 2026

    Tour Itinerary

    • Nagasaki Port Matsugae International Cruise Terminal
    • (By taxi) → Atomic Bomb Museum, Hypocenter, Peace Park
    • (By taxi) → Dejima
    • (By taxi) → Glover Garden
    • (On foot) → Nagasaki Port Matsugae International Cruise Terminal

    What Can You See on a 4-Hour Nagasaki Cruise Port Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests arrived from North America and came out from the exit of the Matsugae International Cruise Terminal a little after 10:00. After greeting them, I suggested, "First, I think we should go to the Atomic Bomb Museum. Since our time is limited to four hours, how about using a taxi?" They readily agreed, so we first went to the Atomic Bomb Museum by taxi. They viewed the exhibits carefully, and at times they seemed so deeply moved that it felt inappropriate to even speak to them. After leaving the Atomic Bomb Museum, we moved on foot and I guided them to the hypocenter and Peace Park. After Peace Park, we went out to the street and caught a passing taxi. Because time was limited, I had initially planned to head straight to Glover Garden from here, but I also wanted them to see Dejima, a unique facility that is rare even by global standards, so I suggested it. They readily agreed, so we decided to visit. At Dejima, I guided them mainly around the Kapitan's Quarters and the Archaeological Museum. From Dejima, we again took a taxi to Glover Garden. To reduce the strain of walking, I had the car take us to the second gate at the highest point so that the route would basically be downhill. We strolled through the garden while enjoying the views of Nagasaki Port (the docked cruise ship was also visible, and it gradually grew larger as we descended through the garden) and the cityscape (I also explained the cantilever crane, a World Heritage site over 100 years old). By the time we finished at Glover Garden, it was already nearly 2:00 in the afternoon. I had also wanted to guide them to Oura Cathedral right next door, but they said, "The church is fine, we'll head back to the ship," so we decided to return to the cruise terminal. From a spot where the building in front of the entrance gate to Oura Cathedral was visible, I explained two things: (1) that it is the oldest church in Japan, a World Heritage site, and a National Treasure, and (2) the episode of the "Discovery of the Hidden Christians" (1873). From this spot to the Matsugae International Cruise Terminal in Nagasaki Port is less than a 10-minute walk. We moved on foot and parted ways upon arrival. This time the guests were able to walk without any problems, including some ups and downs, so I feel we were able to have a meaningful tour within the limited time available.

    Click here for more details: Nagasaki Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Tour Report by Junichi

    Hello, my name is Junichi Matsumoto.
    I will be your guide on this occasion. With warm hospitality, I will do my best to help you fully enjoy and appreciate the charm of Japan.

    Before becoming a guide, I worked for the Kumamoto Prefectural Government and retired in March 2023. From 2003 to 2005, I was stationed in Montana, USA, which has a sister-state relationship with Kumamoto. During that time, I actively interacted with the local community together with my family, which gave me valuable cross-cultural experiences.

    I am an easygoing person who quickly builds a friendly relationship with international guests. With a sincere smile and attentive care, I always strive to provide tours that are warm, enjoyable, and memorable. It would be my great pleasure to help you make unforgettable memories during your stay in Japan.

    Request Booking

    Jul 24, 2026
    mariopV3953VG
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Amazing tour by an amazing guide
    Junichi, our guide,…

    Jun 16, 2026
    andreabL155TS
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nagaski day tour
    Junichi was a great tour guide. He met us…

    Jun 14, 2026
    Wander45660599315
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing tour of Nagasaki with Junichi!
    We had a wonderful tour with…

    May 16, 2026
    partel_12
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Excellent Guide Junichi
    Junichi was excellent guide very enthusiastic in…