Category: Uncategorized

  • Toyama Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Toyama Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 ホテル集合
    • 9:20 富山城址公園
    • 9:45 富山市ガラス美術館
    • 10:45 池田屋安兵衛商店、和漢薬づくり体験
    • 11:10 浪速寿司で昼食
    • 12:40 岩瀬浜駅、江戸時代末期に栄えた岩瀬の町を見るため岩瀬の町へ歩く
    • 14:30 富岩運河環水公園
    • 15:15 富山駅、コーヒータイム
    • 15:45 解散

    Title: What's a Private Toyama Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Glass Art, Iwase, and the Tateyama Mountains The guest was a solo traveler from Europe. Having many acquaintances in Japan, they planned to end this trip with a homestay of about ten days at a friend's house in the Kanto region. Since they had never visited the Sea of Japan side of the country, they had been looking forward to this trip. They also spoke a little Japanese. As soon as we met, they told me about their current situation back home. They were in the middle of selling their home and moving into the house where their family had once lived, so this trip took place during a very busy period of relocation. Because they had been so busy, they had done almost no prior research. They were very fond of talking and shared their thoughts on the current situations in Europe, Ukraine, and Russia, as well as news about the families they support. At the Toyama Glass Art Museum, they were very taken with the installation by Dale Chihuly. They also photographed the museum building itself. At the Ikedaya Yasube Shoten, I explained the history of medicine in Toyama, and they tried making traditional round pills. In Iwase, the weather was perfect, and the Tateyama mountain range looked beautiful rising above the harbor. They took many photos and were deeply moved, saying there was nothing like this back home. They also immediately sent the photos to their friends. In the town of Iwase, we did a sake tasting. We also strolled around the town, visited a beer brewery, and bought some Japanese rice crackers. At the Fugan Canal Kansui Park, they enjoyed the panoramic view of the park and the 3,000-meter-class Tateyama mountain range from the Tenmon Bridge. They said this was a place they had really wanted to visit. Blessed with fine weather, it turned out to be a very precious visit to Toyama.

    My guide name is Gucci.
    I love traditional culture, crafts, history, architecture, food, sake, and seasonal events. I aspire to a sustainable lifestyle rooted in tradition.
    I have been teaching at high schools and a college for a long time. Experiencing other cultures through language has led to my current interests. I feel more strongly than ever before about Japanese culture, tradition, and the wisdom of the people that has been passed down.
    I have a wealth of experience in FIT tours, media FAM tours , VIP tours as well as cruise ship group tours in Kanazawa, Gokayama, Shirakawago, Takayama and throughout Toyama prefecture.
    With a spirit of hospitality, I will make your time in Japan memorable.
    I will customize your trip to fulfill your wishes, from the standard ways to seasonal recommendations, unique and deep ways to enjoy.
    I look forward to meeting you!
    Toyama Travel-Designer
    Toyama Pref. Naturalist

    Jun 8, 2026
    Corey B
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Gucci Delivers an Excellent Kanazawa Day
    Gucci was lovely. Kind,…

    May 19, 2026
    Steve T
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Best Way to See Kanazawa in a Day
    Gucci was…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1)8:50    Meet (Kujo Subway Station), then take the subway to Nanzen-ji Temple and Tenju-an
    • 2)9:30~10:50 Nanzen-ji Temple and Tenju-an, then take the subway and bus to Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 3)11:30~12:50 Kiyomizu-dera Temple, then walk to the pottery shop and Ghibli Shop
    • 4)13:00~13:30 Pottery shop and Ghibli Shop, say goodbye in front of the Ghibli Shop

    What Can You See on a Private Kyoto Autumn Foliage Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan. At the request of the group, who wished to see as much autumn foliage, Japanese gardens, and other sights as possible, I arranged a course covering Nanzen-ji, Tenju-an, Kiyomizu-dera, and Gion. The weather was fine on the day, and the autumn foliage at Nanzen-ji and Tenju-an was wonderful, so all of the guests were delighted. However, since one of the group did not seem to be feeling very well, we took frequent breaks. We also took a break before viewing Kiyomizu-dera. As it was already past 12:10 by then, I explained to the group that at this hour it would be difficult to view Kiyomizu-dera and then continue on to Gion. Since one of the guests seemed to like Japanese anime, I suggested going to a Ghibli shop instead of Gion, and the group agreed. After that, we visited Kiyomizu-dera. The autumn foliage at Kiyomizu-dera was also beautiful, and the guests were pleased. Since the group wished to stop by a pottery shop, we visited one and then went to the Ghibli shop, where they did some shopping. By that point it was around 13:30, so the tour came to an end. When I asked what they would like to do afterward, they said they would rest at a café in the area, so we said our goodbyes here.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKujo (Kyoto)~Keage260JPY
    Section 2SubwayKeage~Higashiyama (Kyoto)220JPY
    Section 3BusHigashiyama-Sanjo (Higashiyama Subway Station)/Kyoto City Bus~Kiyomizu-michi/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total710JPY

    Nice to meet you.
    My name is Hiroki Muramoto, please call me Hiro.
    Hiro in Japanese means large or big. Although I’m neither large nor big, you can call me Hiro. How are you doing ?
    I lived in a city nearby Kobe city. Do you know Kobe ? Kobe is famous for Kobe beef and pearl. If you have not yet had Kobe beef, you should taste the authentic Kobe beef. It is very satisfying taste. But I have recently moved to a city in Kyoto prefecture, so I can be in Kyoto city in about one hour. By the way, I am a family of four. I have a son and a daughter. My son now works in Tokyo. I sometimes go to Tokyo to see him. Tokyo is a huge city, but too crowded, so it seems not to suit me. I seem to be better suited to a small city than a big one. Where do you live in ? How many families do you have ? If you like, please tell me about them. I worked in the quality assurance department of a pharmaceutical company and visited the factories of foreign affiliated companies, so I became interested in foreign cultures and obtained a qualification as an interpreter guide in 2015.

    I have been a guide for about eight years. During that time, I have guided in Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara, Kochi and so on, although I could do little guiding work between 2020 and 2022 due to COVID-19. However, since last year, my guiding work has been back! So, I am happy to be able to meet different people again. My hobby is travelling, but sadly, I am not in a position to travel abroad easily at the moment due to the very weak yen, and I hope to travel abroad again when the situation eases a bit more.
    How many countries have you been to so far ? Which countries have you liked so far? Another hobby is watching sports – baseball and football. Do you like the baseball ? Do you know Otani, Japanese baseball player ? He has joined Dodgers in Los Angeles this year. I look forward to another successful year for Otani.

    By the way, what interests you in Japan? Food, history, scenery ? As far as tourist attractions are concerned, famous places are too crowded. If you like, I also would like to show you some less crowded places. Are you interested in experiencing something ? If you want to experience something, I can suggest an experience plan for you. If so, please contact me as early as possible. As for food, what kind of food do you like? There are many kinds of delicious food. Of course, you can get good food in fine restaurants, but you can also get good food in downtown restaurants. If you like alcohol, why don’t you try Japanese sake? It can range from light and fragrant to rich in flavor, so you’re sure to find a Japanese sake you like.

    My motto is “Be content with life.” However, I find myself complaining all the time. If you like, please tell me your motto. I want to treat all guests who visit Japan with the spirit of “Treasure every encounter” and guide them so that they can enjoy themselves and have good memories of Japan.
    You only live once (YOLO). So, I also want to enjoy it with you.

    I look forward to meeting you.
    Best regard.

    Nov 27, 2024
    Julianne_A
    Book it
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was a wonderful experience with our guide Hiro. He…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up Hotel Takanawa
    • 2. 10:20 Hotel New Takanawa
    • 3. 11:00 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 4. 12:50 Asakusa (Nakamise Shopping Street, Sensoji Temple)
    • 5. 15:30 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 6. 15:55 Dismissal Shibuya

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo's Imperial Palace East Gardens and Asakusa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The tour began about 20 minutes late because the meeting point that had been specified differed from the actual place of stay. This appeared to be a mistake on the guests' side. There also seemed to be a misunderstanding that this tour would be conducted by a private car. On the walk from the hotel to the station, and at the Imperial Palace East Gardens, the tour proceeded somewhat slowly. The mood improved noticeably at Nakamise, when the guests found the ukiyo-e woodblock prints they had been looking for, and from that point onward things returned to normal. At the end, the guests kindly explained that they had not been feeling well and apologized. I carried out my guiding duties properly through to the end, so I do not expect any issues to arise.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTakanawadai~Otemachi (Tokyo)220JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Shibuya260JPY
    Total660JPY

    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…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Kanmangafuchi Abyss & Futarasan Shrine

    Tochigi in One Day: Kanmangafuchi Abyss & Futarasan Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet with customers
    •  10:15~10:35 Kanmangafuchi Abyss sightseeing
    •  11:00~12:00 Lunch
    •  12:30~14:30 Toshogu Shrine sightseeing
    •  14:30~15:20 Rinnoji Temple sightseeing
    •  15:30~15:50 Futarasan Shrine sightseeing
    •  16:00 Disband in front of Toshogu Shrine

    What Is a Private Nikko Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Toshogu, Rinnoji, and Kanmangafuchi The guests on this tour were visiting from North America. It seemed to be their first time in Japan, and they appeared to find everything fresh and exciting. The email had mentioned some concern about walking, so I set a relaxed schedule to be considerate. When I met the guests, they said their condition was good that day, and the tour proceeded without any problems at all. The original plan was to first visit Kanmangafuchi, then have lunch, followed by a visit to Toshogu Shrine, and finally Rinnoji Temple before finishing. However, we were also able to visit Futarasan Shrine. For lunch, I took them to my favorite restaurant, which serves a yuba set meal in a traditional building, and they were very pleased. There was laughter throughout the entire day, and I believe they were satisfied with the tour itself.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTobu Nikko Station~Nishisando Entrance600JPY
    Section 2Free PassNishisando Entrance~JR Nikko Station0JPY
    Total600JPY

    I am a licensed guide based in the Nikko area of Tochigi Prefecture, with a passion for sharing the depth and beauty of this remarkable region.
    In particular, I take great pride in introducing the magnificent World Heritage area, home to Toshogu Shrine, Futarasan Shrine, Rinnoji Temple, and the iconic Shinkyo Bridge. The rich history, spiritual atmosphere, and masterful craftsmanship found there are truly inspiring.
    But Nikko has much more to offer beyond the World Heritage zone. The region is uniquely spread across three different elevation zones: the central town area, the Lake Chuzenji area at higher altitude, and the remote Yumoto Onsen area in the mountains. Each of these areas offers a different charm—from historic sites and sacred spaces to scenic lakes, waterfalls, and hot springs.
    However, due to the area’s wide geography, limited public transit options, and seasonal congestion, even navigating efficiently within a single area can be challenging without local knowledge.
    That’s why local expertise is essential. With in-depth knowledge of Nikko’s layout, transportation network, and crowd patterns, I help my guests make the most of their time, while focusing on the area that suits their interests best.
    I don’t just recite what’s written in guidebooks—I offer deeper insights rooted in Japanese history, religion, and culture. From the legacy of Tokugawa Ieyasu to the spiritual symbolism behind shrine architecture, I aim to provide meaningful and memorable experiences.
    If you’re looking to discover the real Nikko, from its iconic landmarks to hidden gems, I’d be honored to guide you.

    Jul 27, 2026
    Onno_P2000
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Very interesting and joyful day trip with Taka
    We…

    Jun 30, 2026
    Rolando_A
    Viator review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A fantastic day!
    We had an amazing day. Our guide was Taka.…

    Jun 25, 2026
    N8851CTrebeccaf
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We cannot recommend Taka highly…

    Jun 21, 2026
    kevin L
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing personal tour where you get to choose or have a…

  • Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet at Hiroshima Port
    • 09:25 Travel to Miyajima Port
    • 09:57 Sightseeing in Miyajima
    • 12:10 Travel to Miyajimaguchi Port
    • 12:30 Travel to Atomic Bomb Dome
    • 13:15 Disband at Atomic Bomb Dome

    Title: What Is a Private Cruise-Port Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Oceania, arriving on a cruise ship that had come from Naha and docked at the Ujina Foreign Trade Pier No. 5 in Hiroshima. This was the ship's first call at Hiroshima, and shuttle bus information was only announced on the morning of the day itself, but in the end no shuttle bus was provided. I am truly grateful that the guests kindly set up a messaging app in advance. It took some time to narrow down the transportation options between Miyajima and Hiroshima, but I was able to move forward with the plan while confirming their wishes beforehand. On the morning of the tour, it took a while before we were able to meet, which made me anxious, but we managed to meet without any trouble and I was relieved that we could head to Miyajima on the high-speed boat as planned.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherMiyajimaguchi~Atomic Bomb Dome240JPY
    Total240JPY

    Hi, nice to meet you! I am Emmy. I am so honored and happy to be your guide.
    I had been teaching at a local university in Hiroshima. After I got retired in March 2023, I started guiding. I was born and raised in Hiroshima. I love communicating with people all over the world more than anything, so I have been involved in home visit, homestay, volunteer guide for people from foreign countries.
    I always hope that our guests will take away lots of positive energy from Hiroshima, a city that was resilient and revived like a phoenix, in spite of its sad history.
    While realizing customers’ wishes, I will introduce you the beauty of Hiroshima, Miyajima and so on, which are tranquil and peaceful places with a unique charm that cannot be found in big cities.
    I am happy to answer any questions about things Japanese.
    I look forward to meeting you in person soon!!

    Jul 3, 2026
    715rachnak
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Such a great experience in Hiroshima and Miyajima!
    We…

    Jul 2, 2026
    Janine_P
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Worth the money!
    From the moment we booked our…

    May 7, 2026
    Diane_F
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour and guide
    Our tour guide Emmy was…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Curious613511
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    We did a 4 hour walking tour through Hiroshima where…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Jingu Shrine & Akihabara

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Jingu Shrine & Akihabara

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:50 Meet up @ Hotel Tokyo Ginza
    • 10:40 Shibuya Scramble Crossing & Hachiko
    • 11:10 Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 12:30 Imperial Palace
    • 13:20 Lunch @ Numazu Uogashi Sushi (Marunouchi Building)
    • 14:30 Senso-ji Temple
    • 15:15 Akihabara
    • 16:15 Disband @ Hotel Tokyo Ginza

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Day Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, Asakusa, and Akihabara The guests were visitors from North America, and this was their second time in Japan. After sightseeing in Tokyo, they planned to depart from Yokohama on a cruise tour lasting about two weeks. At Meiji Shrine, they seemed impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere, which was very different from Shibuya. They were also delighted to be able to take a photo of a bride and groom who were holding a wedding ceremony at Meiji Shrine. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with interest to historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo Shogunate. At Senso-ji Temple, they listened with interest to explanations about the differences between temples and shrines, the Kaminarimon Gate, and more. In Akihabara, they purchased a cable for their headphones at a large electronics store. Since I accommodated their requests as they wished, I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Ginza~Shibuya210JPY
    Section 2TrainShibuya~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 4TrainTokyo~Ueno170JPY
    Section 5SubwayUeno~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 6SubwayAsakusa~Suehirocho (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 7SubwayAkihabara~Higashi-Ginza180JPY
    Total1,280JPY

    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

    Jul 10, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Beautiful Tour of Kamakura
    Seizo Kamiuto was out…

    Jun 9, 2026
    stacy_grana
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with an experienced guide
    Our guide, Seizo, was amazing.…

    Jun 6, 2026
    U9351HJjakes
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Seizo Kamiuto was great and super knowledgeable. He had a…

    May 20, 2026
    HugoJ670
    Tripadvisor review: Edo Tokyo & Japanese Culture Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Tokio in de zon
    Seizo Kaminto is een uitstekende…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Kokoen Garden

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Kokoen Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9;30 Himeji Station
    • 10-00-12:30 Himeji Castle
    • 12:40-13:40 Kokoen Garden

    What's a Private Himeji Castle Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I met the guest at Himeji Station and we headed directly to Himeji Castle. It was the middle of a three-day holiday weekend, so it was extremely crowded, and with entry limits in place it took a lot of time, but I was able to guide them all the way to the Nishi-no-Maru (West Bailey). The guest listened to many of my stories and paid close attention to my explanations. They said they had been busy with work in October, so they took a vacation to visit Japan during this period. When I asked why they had requested a guide while traveling alone, they said they wanted to learn about many things, so I made an effort to explain as much as possible. At Koko-en Garden we played a little game while waiting for our turn at Kassui-ken, and then we concluded the tour.

    Hello, my name is Harumi, and I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter in Japan. I have been actively involved in volunteer activities for many years, sharing my passion for Japanese culture and history. As a kimono dressing instructor, I can provide hands-on kimono experiences and guide tours. Additionally, I have extensive knowledge of sumo wrestling, making my tours ideal for those interested in this fascinating sport. I am also well-versed in Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings (Jūdenken) and can introduce historical townscapes dating back to the Edo period. If you are interested, I would be happy to show you around the sake brewing process in the Nada region.

    Jul 11, 2026
    Rahul_P
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Private Tour
    Highly recommended if looking for a comfortable tour…

    Jul 7, 2026
    782MarkS782
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Harumi and Kyoto
    This was amazing – truly memory making. Harumi is…

    Jun 25, 2026
    JenCBear
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great visit with a great guide Harumi
    Harumi was a fantastic guide…

    Jun 21, 2026
    Andrew_M
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Amazing guided experience
    Harumi is an amazing guide.…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:45 Meet at Hotel
    • 9:00-9:50 Travel to Miyajima
    • 10:00-13:15 Miyajima (Great Torii Gate, Itsukushima Shrine, Daisho-in Temple, Lunch, Shopping)
    • 13:25- 14:50 Travel to Hiroshima Castle
    • 14:50-15:10 Hiroshima Castle
    • 15:30-17:00 Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park (A-dome, Museum, etc.)
    • 17:15 Disperse at Hondori

    Title: What Is a Private Hiroshima Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Since one of the guests preferred to avoid stairs, we used elevators and escalators as much as possible and adjusted our walking pace to match the guests throughout the day. The museum was so crowded on the afternoon of a holiday period that it was difficult to move around, so I had the guests take a seat and rest along the way. Also, on the morning of the tour, I received word that they had already visited Shukkeien Garden the previous day, so instead I guided them to Hiroshima Castle. The weather was fine, and the guests seemed to enjoy the okonomiyaki at lunch very much, so I felt they were satisfied with the tour overall.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi~Shin-Hakushima330JPY
    Section 3TrainShin-Hakushima~Johoku220JPY
    Total970JPY

    Hi! My name is Kazuhisa To. After completing graduate school, I moved to Hiroshima—and have now lived here for over 42 years. I earned a Ph.D. through a national university’s professional program while working at Mazda Motor Corporation. Five years before retiring from the company, I was seconded to Hiroshima University, a national university, where I served as a specially appointed professor. In addition to my domestic career, I spent a total of about five and a half years living and working abroad. These international experiences have given me valuable cross-cultural understanding and the ability to connect comfortably with guests from around the world. Currently, as a Hiroshima Prefectural Government Licensed Guide Interpreter, I introduce visitors not only to famous attractions such as Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima, but also to the local lifestyle, culture, and culinary delights, tailored to your interests. I hope to provide each guest with a memorable experience that stays in your heart.
    I look forward to meeting you here in Hiroshima!

    Jul 21, 2026
    anza
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Excellent Walking Tour with Kazuhisa To
    We had a…

    Jun 25, 2026
    52leannei
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Amazing day trip and tour to Hiroshima
    My family…

    Jun 14, 2026
    Shannon_M
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide was amazing. He…
    Our guide was amazing. He…

    Jun 14, 2026
    Thomas L
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima Tour with a Great Guide
    Our guide Kazuhisa…

  • Kyoto in 1 Day from Kobe: Private Car Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Kobe: Private Car Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at Kobe Port Terminal 11:25 Fushimi Inari 12:40 Kinkaku-ji 13:50 Lunch (sushi restaurant) 15:10 Nishiki Market 16:10 Gion   16:30 Depart Kyoto for Kobe 18:27 Arrive at the reserved dinner restaurant in Kobe city  18:32 Tour ends

    What's a Private Cruise-Port Day Tour from Kobe to Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of eight who joined the tour after arriving in Japan by cruise ship from North America. It was the first day of a three-day holiday weekend, so the roads were extremely congested. Traveling from Kobe Port to Kyoto in the morning, it took about two hours to reach Fushimi Inari due to traffic. Since I had planned on roughly one and a half hours, the schedule became tight. The center of Kyoto was also very crowded, and travel took a long time, so I shortened the time spent at each destination. I also decided to share basic information inside the private vehicle before arriving at each site. Even so, compared with the content I usually cover as a guide, I was only able to convey about 60 to 70 percent. It was a rushed itinerary, but everyone was very cooperative. They wanted to have ramen for lunch and Kobe beef for dinner, so I made restaurant reservations. Since I could not find a ramen shop that could seat eight, I reserved a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant that I often visit and had them order mainly ramen there. The conveyor-belt sushi restaurant seemed novel to them, and they were delighted, saying it was a "unique experience." The center of Kyoto was very crowded, and after Gion we got caught in traffic. It took time to get through the congestion in the city, which was worrying, but thanks to the driver's cooperation we managed to arrive in time for the dinner reservation at a Kobe beef restaurant in Kobe. The photo was taken at the Kobe beef restaurant in Kobe. After dinner, the group took a taxi back to the cruise ship.

    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.

    Jul 24, 2026
    Trail65429092687
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    Kazua Sumi is a very accomplished guide.He has deep…

    Jul 23, 2026
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    My friend and I had a great experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    margaretsM7923ON
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    Great way to see Kyoto
    Wonderful tour and exceptional guide.

    Jul 9, 2026
    Sandra_B
    Kazuo was great and…
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  • Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Nijo Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ The Prince Kyoto Takaragaike
    • 10:30-11:30 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 12:15-13:15 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 13:30-14:00 Lunch @ Champon-tei
    • 14:30-15:30 Nijo Castle
    • -16:00 Travel
    • (Continued in JGA-T112649680)

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour with a Licensed Guide Like? A Guide's Report from Kinkaku-ji to Gion Since it was the guest's first time in Kyoto, at the guest's request, the tour was extended by three hours. The guest was in Japan to attend an academic conference beginning on a later date at the Kyoto International Conference Center, and, perhaps feeling uneasy about traveling alone, requested to be escorted all the way to the hotel. There were no particular requests other than Gion, and since the guest wished to learn about the history and culture of Kyoto, I selected the classic options of Kinkaku-ji, the Kyoto Imperial Palace, and Nijo Castle. The guest did not ask many questions, but nodded and said "OK" to the things I explained. The guest photographed the beautiful scenery everywhere, and seemed to especially like the Oike Garden at the Imperial Palace. The guest was fairly good at walking, so for lunch we walked to Karasuma Marutamachi and went into a ramen shop there. The guest seemed to enjoy the meal. We then moved by bus and got off at Horikawa Marutamachi. Since a sign indicated that Nijo Castle was 0.3 km away, the guest remarked that it seemed within walking distance, so we decided to walk. The guest also wished to walk around the entire perimeter of Nijo Castle, so we did so. It seemed the guest actually wanted to request my guiding for the following day as well, but as I already had another commitment arranged in advance, I regretfully had to decline. Since the guest seemed anxious about traveling alone the next day, I made an effort to explain transfers and similar details as carefully as possible. The guest took many photos of the stations. I am not entirely sure of the details, but the guest mentioned feeling anxious because the mobile phone internet would not connect. Originally we had planned to head straight to Gion, but since the guest wished to participate in a tea ceremony, I recommended the tea ceremony at Nanzen-ji. As the guest's walking pace was quick, there was not enough time to go all the way into Nanzen-ji, but we went a little further and got off at Keage, where I explained an overview of Nanzen-ji and the location of the tea ceremony. Since Gion was within walking distance, I proposed visiting Nanzen-ji before heading to Gion, and the guest agreed, so we proceeded that way. The photo was taken at Kinkaku-ji. I accidentally took it in portrait orientation. My apologies.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKokusaikaikan~Kitaoji260JPY
    Section 2BusKitaoji Bus Terminal (Kitaoji Subway Station)/Kyoto City Bus~Kinkakuji-michi/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3BusKinkakuji-michi/Kyoto City Bus~Karasuma Marutamachi (Marutamachi Subway Station)/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4BusKarasuma Marutamachi (Marutamachi Subway Station)/Kyoto City Bus~Horikawa Marutamachi/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 5TrainNijojo-mae~Keage260JPY
    Total1,210JPY

    I am a 53-year-old woman, living in Kyoto for nearly 40 years. I got the license in 2001. Since then, I worked as an interpreter or a translator in several companies, secretary at universities, and now work for a company on weekdays at the international dept.I do guiding job only weekend now. I started full swing guiding career after COVID-19 pandemic. I have gotten good review from many of my guests. I love my hometown, Kyoto which has a lot of interesting and historical sites to see. Particularly, I am native to Arashiyama which is famous for bamboo forest. So, I know a lot of places where you can relax yourself around this area. Other than that, Kyoto has many attractive sites which surely interest you.Also, I like meeting many people from different cultural background. I am very happy if I learn about your culture as well. Let’s enjoy exploring around Kyoto!

    May 18, 2026
    WENDY_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent day out
    The trip was really well planned and organised, it…

    Sep 21, 2025
    joshsJ915FC
    Super tour of Kyoto
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    Really wonderful tour of markets and geisha district.…

    Jun 16, 2025
    Chanyl C
    Highly recommend
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    My husband and I really enjoyed the Kyoto tour.…

    May 18, 2025
    Steve J
    A relaxing, enjoyable visit to Arashiyama.
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    Satori was very kind and…