Category: Uncategorized

  • Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo Bridge & Kanmangafuchi Abyss

    Tochigi in One Day: Shinkyo Bridge & Kanmangafuchi Abyss

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:40 Meet up @ Tobu Nikko Station
    • 10:00 Board the bus
    • 10:09 Shinkyo Bridge
    • 10:25 Rinnoji Temple Sanbutsudo
    • 11:00 Toshogu Shrine
    • 12:10 Futarasan Shrine
    • 12:40 Lunch @ Maruhide Shokudo
    • 13:30 Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park
    • 15:00 Kanmangafuchi Abyss
    • 15:30 Board the bus
    • 15:40 Tour ends @ Tobu Nikko Station

    Title: What Is a Private Nikko Tour With a Baby Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America traveling with an infant. They said they enjoyed walking even while carrying the baby, and indeed they walked along briskly without any problem at all. I suspected this was because a crowded bus might have caused the baby more stress. Whenever the baby fussed a little, milk or a snack quickly restored a good mood, and the baby sometimes smiled at people nearby and was warmly received, which made it a very heartwarming day to witness. Both of the guests wanted to hear about history, but the conversation inevitably paused depending on the baby's condition, so I tried to keep my explanations as simple as possible. The guests took turns holding the baby, and while one held the baby, the other quickly took photos and then turned back to the baby or listened to my explanations. Traveling for sightseeing with an infant means carrying a lot of luggage and being very busy in many ways, but both guests behaved in a strong, cheerful, and seemingly relaxed manner, which filled me with respect. I was also able to guide them to spaces for changing diapers and giving milk at well-timed spots (such as the Toshogu Treasure Museum and the Imperial Villa), which made it a useful day for guiding similar families in the future.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusTobu Nikko Station/Tobu Bus~Shinkyo Bridge/Tobu Bus220JPY
    Section 2BusShinkyo Bridge/Tobu Bus~Tobu Nikko Station/Tobu Bus220JPY
    Total440JPY

    Hello! My name is Yumi. The Nikko area, Nasu area, in Tochigi Prefecture, and Aizu and Shirakawa area in Fukushima prefecture, where I will be guiding you, are not only surrounded by beautiful nature in all four seasons but are also full of historical attractions. Nikko, in particular, is a great place to learn about the culture and history that has shaped Japan to this day. In order for you to truly enjoy your day, I am flexible to your wishes and will prepare your day to be a great day. Because I am a local guide, you will surely see some sights that are not in the guidebooks. Is local food one of your favorite parts of your trip? I am also a sushi-making instructor for foreigners, so food is one of my specialties. I am also a certified sake navigator. Why don’t you come and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with me?

    Jul 1, 2026
    laine164
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day!
    We had a wonderful time exploring Nikko.
    Our friendly…

    Apr 7, 2026
    V2097LInickd
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Guide Yumi Highlights Nikko on walking tour
    Our 16,000 step tour…

    Apr 4, 2026
    O4367MVkarenv
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fantastic day in Nikko
    We had a fantastic day with Yumi. She…

    Nov 10, 2025
    Salutory
    A fascinating tour with a friendly and knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Yumi…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel 930→1015 Arashiyama Sightseeing (Bamboo Grove Path→Togetsukyo Bridge) 1100→1140 Kinkaku-ji 1230→1245 Kitaoji BT (Lunch Time) 1315→1330 Kyoto Imperial Palace 1445→1515 Gion Shirakawa 15300 (End at Site)

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Kyoto Tour by Train and Bus Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were active travelers exploring various parts of Japan using a Japan Rail Pass. Since our prior discussions revealed a strong interest in a broad range of Japanese cultural experiences, I prepared the proposal outlined separately and made a point of sharing plenty of historical background and related anecdotes throughout the day. Although all of the destinations were classic, popular spots, I did my best to explain the kind of background that would be difficult to learn on a self-guided visit and that only a guided tour can offer. We traveled entirely by train and bus, and the guests seemed to genuinely enjoy this, coming to feel that exploring Kyoto without a car is surprisingly rewarding. (They appeared to have done the same in Tokyo and other places as well, and did not find it inconvenient at all.)

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto City Hall~Nijo220JPY
    Section 2TrainNijo~Saga-Arashiyama200JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)~Kitano-Hakubaicho250JPY
    Section 4BusKitano-Hakubaicho / Kyoto City Bus~Kinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 5BusKinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus~Kitaoji Bus Terminal (Subway Kitaoji Station) / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 6SubwayKitaoji~Imadegawa220JPY
    Section 7SubwayImadegawa~Higashiyama (Kyoto)260JPY
    Section 8BusHigashiyama-sanjo (Subway Higashiyama Station) / Kyoto City Bus~Gion / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total1,840JPY

    Since I completely retired from my position at a railway company and started being involved in the tour guide interpreter business, I have experienced almost all types of guiding through FIT, Long Group Tours, Cruises (Shore Excursions), Incentive Tours, Special Interest Tours (Railway Travel, Pilgrimages), Familiarization Tours (Sales Promotion Tours) etc.
    However, I noticed that I am not fully satisfied to only be a general guide who just manages a tour itinerary provided by tour agents/clients.
    High-end guests have sometimes requested me to answer some enquiries that are actually challenging to answer for Japanese nationals. However, I appreciated those because they provided such a challenge and I felt that they wanted to understand my sense of beauty/values as a guide concerning a new culture for them.
    Every time I host my guest I do my best to prepare the most appropriate information based on three travel elements (appetite, logistics, accommodation). Nevertheless, I decided to aim for higher guiding skills after I was motivated by senior guides whose guiding strategies and gestures were particularly impressive.

    Jul 5, 2026
    788amarpals
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Top 7 Sights Private Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Private tour Guide in Kyoto- Mr Yoshi
    Mr.…

    Mar 17, 2026
    jodonr2026
    Amazing. Go with Yoshi!
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    We had a fantastic…

    Jan 2, 2026
    Fearless67262385503
    Memorable experience
    Tripadvisor review: Takayama Half-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide, Yoshi-san, a sweet and gentle elderly…

    Oct 17, 2025
    Laura_C
    Amazing experience…
    Viator review: Nagano All Must-Sees 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Amazing experience getting to see sites outside of…

  • Kyoto in One Day: My K House & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in One Day: My K House & Nijo Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 My K House
    • 09:50 Sanjusangendo (500) by Keihan train
    • 11:20 Ginkakuji (500) by taxi
    • 13:00 Lunch (Matsubatei)
    • 13:10 Kinkakuji (500) by taxi
    • 14:20 Nijo Castle (1300) by taxi
    • 15:30 End of the tour

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Sanjusangendo, Ginkaku-ji, Kinkaku-ji, and Nijo Castle The guests came from North America. The first destination was Sanjusangendo, and we headed from the Hotel toward Kiyomizu-Gojo Station on the Keihan Line while enjoying a view of the autumn Kamo River. After seeing the breathtaking thousand-armed Kannon statues at Sanjusangendo, we took a taxi to Ginkaku-ji. The weather was fine, so the contrast between the autumn foliage and the blue sky was very beautiful. From the hillside of Ginkaku-ji, we spotted the Hidari-Daimonji near Kinkaku-ji, and then went on to Kinkaku-ji. The guests had a Sony camera and took many photographs. Since I am always studying angles that make for good photos, I introduced various photogenic angles. Our final destination was Nijo Castle, where, after visiting the Ninomaru Palace, the guests enjoyed feeding the carp in the moat.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKiyomizu-Gojo~Shichijo180JPY
    Total180JPY

    I’m Ryoichi Kazuma and my nickname is “Kazz”. I live in Kyotanabe city next to Kyoto city. I want guests to enjoy Kyoto by seeing and experiencing not only from outside but also from inside. I offer various information from daily matters to traditional cultures. Most destinations in Kyoto are located on the eastern side or the western side. As I want to guide guests to as many destinations as possible, I make an efficient itinerary and recommend a taxi use to save time. Additionally, I take pictures at various spots and finally share the link to my storage. By doing so, guests can download their favorite pictures from my storage. Please enjoy Kyoto night and day!

    Jul 14, 2026
    T6871WWricharde
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kazz gave a great one on one 8 hour custom tour…

    Jun 5, 2026
    mateoe216
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Would book again
    The tour with Kazuma-san was absolutely great. As someone…

    May 27, 2026
    Leah_D
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely recommend!
    I definitely recommend seeing some of the sights with a…

    May 26, 2026
    sheilacL3330KS
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very enthusiastic and knowledgable guide. Much appreciated
    Kazz was an excellent guide…

  • Osaka: Osaka Castle & Holiday Inn Osaka Namba

    Osaka: Osaka Castle & Holiday Inn Osaka Namba

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet @ Holiday Inn Osaka Namba
    • 09:30 @ Osaka Castle (exterior only)
    • 11:00 @ National Museum of Art, Osaka
    • 12:30 @ Kuromon Market
    • 14:00 @ Holiday Inn Osaka Namba
    • 14:30 Dismissal @ In front of Shinsaibashi Daimaru

    Title: What Is a Private Osaka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Kuromon Market, and Shinsaibashi Body: The guests were a group visiting from Asia. At Osaka Castle, they enthusiastically browsed and purchased souvenirs. The art museum was included at the request of one of the guests, and everyone viewed the exhibits with great interest and also bought souvenirs at the shop. At Kuromon Market, they enjoyed a "food-walking tour" style experience, sampling a variety of tastings, including fish cakes, premium fatty tuna, grilled Kobe beef skewers, sea urchin, scallops, oysters, and takoyaki, all of which they found delicious and thoroughly enjoyed. I presented them with a handmade drawstring pouch, which they were delighted to receive. (I had mistakenly assumed there would be fewer recipients, so I was one short. I first gave one to a member of the group, and the remaining pouch was decided by a game of rock-paper-scissors among the others.) After visiting each spot, they wished to drop off their shopping bags at the hotel and then be dismissed a little early near Shinsaibashi, so we finished about 30 minutes ahead of schedule. It was a wonderful group, and I was grateful to be able to guide them so enjoyably. Today's driver was also very familiar with the roads and drove very carefully.

    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

    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…

  • Fukushima in One Day: Decommissioning Archive Center & Iwaki Station

    Fukushima in One Day: Decommissioning Archive Center & Iwaki Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet and depart at the hotel
    • 10:00-11:00 Decommissioning Archive Center
    • 11:30 or so-12:10 In front of Futaba Station
    • 12:20-14:30 FBIC shop ~ lunch ~ The Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum
    • 14:45-15:30 Ukedo Elementary School
    • 15:35-40 Mt. Ohira
    • 16:45 Arrive at Iwaki Station

    Title: What Is a Private Fukushima Nuclear Disaster Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe on their second trip to Japan. Their work is not related to electricity or radiation, but they came because they wanted to see with their own eyes the Fukushima nuclear disaster that they had seen on a television program. Since the guests' native language is not English, they said they learned the words "decommissioning" and "decontamination" for the first time. Thanks to this, I was able to converse in simple English that was easy for me to understand as well, which was a good experience. At the decommissioning archive museum, an English-speaking staff member gave the explanation, and the guests said they understood how the system works and learned a great deal. At the memorial museum and Ukedo Elementary School, I received many questions, and I myself was able to reconfirm many things. Why was the second nuclear power plant safe? How was the observation deck of Ukedo Elementary School used? They also asked questions expressing concern about radiation, such as whether to believe the numbers shown on the radiation monitoring posts, or whether to believe what the government says. I answered what I knew, and for what I did not know, I asked the facility staff to explain. Regarding opinions on radiation and related matters, since I personally hold a moderate view, I answered honestly and frankly what I thought. When we were in front of Futaba Station, the guests saw students boarding a large bus and remarked that in Europe many students also visit concentration camps, and that learning through tours like this is important.

    Hello. I’m Mikiko Shiga, a licensed guide interpreter.
    I live in Iwaki, Fukushima, about 200km northeast from Tokyo.
    I was born in Sendai, the capital of Tohoku or the North East area of Japan.
    I ‘ve belonged to a volunteer guide group, I experienced walking tours in Asakusa, and other places in Tokyo.

    Meanwhile, the area I was born and live in is relatively uncrowded.
    Tohoku is blessed with beautiful nature, delicious food and fresh air.
    It is recommendable for tourists who want to avoid busy places.
    It would be wonderful if I could share the attractions in Tohoku or Ibaraki areas with my guests.

    Jul 10, 2026
    Jenny_A
    Viator review: Fukushima Hope Tour in 1 Day by Car with Licensed Guide
    Interesting tour to see…
    Interesting tour to see…

    Jun 14, 2026
    Michael_B
    Viator review: Fukushima Hope Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle from Iwaki
    Fukushima & Iwaki – Excellent Tour With Local Guides…

    Mar 23, 2025
    Phillosophizing
    An Unforgettable Journey Through Resilience and Remembrance
    Tripadvisor review: Fukushima Hope Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle from Iwaki
    Our Fukushima…

    Oct 11, 2024
    716zaineb
    A wonderful tour worth doing!
    Tripadvisor review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Miki did a wonderful job…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Shinjuku & Roppongi

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Shinjuku & Roppongi

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo
    • 9:10 Depart The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo
    • (Taxi)
    • 9:30 Arrive Shinjuku
    • Shinjuku Kabukicho
    • 3D Cat Billboard
    • Godzilla Head
    • 10:00 Depart Shinjuku
    • (Taxi)
    • 10:15 Arrive Shibuya
    • Shibuya Shibuya Sky
    • 11:30 Depart Shibuya
    • (Taxi)
    • 12:00 Arrive Akihabara
    • Akihabara Akihabara Electric Town
    • Bic Camera
    • 12:20 Depart Akihabara
    • (Taxi)
    • 12:30 Arrive Ginza
    • Ginza Ginza 4-chome
    • 12:40 Depart Ginza
    • (Taxi)
    • 13:00 Arrive Roppongi
    • Roppongi Roppongi Hills
    • 13:00 Dismissal: Roppongi Hills

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Sightseeing Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. One of the guests was returning to Japan after 55 years, while it was the first visit for the group. Two days earlier they had arrived at Haneda Airport and traveled to their hotel by taxi. The previous day they had taken a day trip to Mount Fuji. They planned to stay in Tokyo for a few more days before returning home. This time, one of the guests wanted to relive their earlier visit to Japan 55 years ago, and it was something of a sentimental journey with a wish to revisit places from their memories. The guests also mentioned some family heritage connected to Japan. Please note that one of the guests had difficulty walking and could not walk more than about 300 meters at a time. The tour took place under clear skies and in warm, pleasant weather. The request was to visit the major spots in Tokyo. First, we went to Shinjuku. The guests were especially keen to see the "Godzilla Head" and the "3D cat billboard." I explained the origins of Shinjuku, the differences between the east and west sides of Shinjuku, and the history of Kabukicho. Next, we went to Shibuya. The guests had already booked "Shibuya Sky," so I guided them to the entrance. I explained the history of Shibuya and the Scramble Crossing. There were questions such as "Shibuya seems to have changed greatly compared to the past" and "Why do so many people gather at the Scramble Crossing?" Next, we went to Akihabara. One of the guests recalled, "I once came here and bought a transistor radio to take home." I explained the origins, history, and current state of Akihabara. Then we went to Ginza. The guests took photos standing at the Ginza 4-chome intersection. I explained the history of Ginza. One comment was, "It seems both changed and unchanged from my previous visit, though the European brand shops really stand out." The guests also mentioned wanting to visit an observation deck in Roppongi, so we went to Roppongi Hills. We parted ways at the entrance. There were comments such as "The city is so clean, with no litter on the streets," "I was amazed at how clean the public restrooms are," and "Aren't there any pickpockets or robberies?"

    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.10:00 Meet up @Hotel Ueno
    • 2.10:30 @Tsukiji
    • 3.12:00 @Asakusa
    • 4.12:50 Lunch @Nishi-Asakusa Monja Shichigosan
    • 5.14:00 @Kappabashi
    • 6.15:20 @Meiji Shrine
    • 7.16:00 Disband @Takeshita Street

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, and Meiji Shrine The guests were a group visiting from North America who often travel together. It was their first time in Japan, and they had already visited Kyoto and Osaka. We first went to Tsukiji, where they enjoyed tuna sushi at a well-known restaurant, along with wagyu beef, beer, shine muscat grapes, and mitarashi dango. After that, we went to Sensoji Temple, where they drew omikuji fortunes and got "great blessing" (which seems to have been common lately), then prayed at the main hall before heading to an okonomiyaki restaurant. They happily enjoyed okonomiyaki, teppanyaki, and other dishes. At Kappabashi, three of them purchased kitchen knives. We then moved on to Meiji Shrine. Everyone was a strong walker and seemed completely tireless. They said the forest of Meiji Shrine was beautiful and prayed there. There happened to be a Japanese-style wedding photo shoot taking place, as well as a family celebrating Shichi-Go-San, and they looked on with delight. I guided them to the entrance of Takeshita Street to conclude the tour. It was a very fine and beautiful day.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainUeno~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 2TrainTsukiji~Asakusa290JPY
    Section 3TrainTawaramachi (Tokyo)~Meiji-jingumae260JPY
    Total730JPY

    Hello, I am Fumiko, an English-speaking Tourist Guide. I have been guiding foreign visitors science 2016. Please let me know your bucket lists whiles you are staying in Japan and what you are interested in. I will make the best plan for you. This is an once in a lifetime experience for you. As for myself, I love traveling, meeting people, eating local food, drinking, history, and art. I am learning Ikebana, traditional Japanese-style flower arrangement, and tea ceremony. I also love sports, especially tennis. I like children, so I can teach them some origami, folding paper. I am looking forward to hearing from you and seeing you in Japan.

    Jul 27, 2026
    zyarisa
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko tour good vibes only
    Mrs. fumiko was very…

    Jul 23, 2026
    734mortenp
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Nice tour of Tokyo
    Don’t visit Tokyo without a guide! You’ll…

    Jul 10, 2026
    Jessica_A
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko was wonderful. …
    Fumiko was wonderful. You can…

    Jun 28, 2026
    alistairn2016
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fumiko is a great tour guide – informative, friendly and very well…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.15:00 Meet up @ Hotel Tokyo
    • 2.15:30 @ Asakusa
    • 3.16:40 @ Tokyo Skytree
    • 4.18:30 @ Kura Sushi Oshiage Station Front
    • 5.20:00 @ Shinjuku, Golden Gai, etc.
    • 6.21:00 Disband @ Hotel Tokyo

    Title: What's a Private Evening Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Skytree, and Shinjuku The guests were visitors from North America. On the day of the tour, they traveled from Hakone to Tokyo to join the tour. Because the buses in Hakone were crowded and there was no internet connection, they ended up boarding a local bus, so the tour started a little later than planned. In Asakusa, they enjoyed sightseeing at the five-story pagoda and the Hozomon Gate, and had fun drawing a "daikichi" (great blessing) fortune with the omikuji. After enjoying the view from the observation deck of Tokyo Skytree, we went to a nearby Kura Sushi. Since they had not had time for lunch, they especially enjoyed a variety of sushi and desserts. They also won a prize from the sushi restaurant's lottery game and enjoyed shooting to receive a reward. Although the guests were quite tired, they were amazed by the atmosphere of Kabukicho in Shinjuku. They were especially surprised by Golden Gai. Afterward, I saw them off at their hotel and concluded the tour. I felt that evening tours can also be enjoyable during this season.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShimbashi~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 2TrainAsakusa~Tokyo Skytree160JPY
    Section 3TrainOshiage~Asakusabashi180JPY
    Section 4TrainAsakusabashi~Shinjuku180JPY
    Section 5SubwayShinjuku~Shimbashi210JPY
    Total940JPY

    Hello, I am Fumiko, an English-speaking Tourist Guide. I have been guiding foreign visitors science 2016. Please let me know your bucket lists whiles you are staying in Japan and what you are interested in. I will make the best plan for you. This is an once in a lifetime experience for you. As for myself, I love traveling, meeting people, eating local food, drinking, history, and art. I am learning Ikebana, traditional Japanese-style flower arrangement, and tea ceremony. I also love sports, especially tennis. I like children, so I can teach them some origami, folding paper. I am looking forward to hearing from you and seeing you in Japan.

    Jul 27, 2026
    zyarisa
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko tour good vibes only
    Mrs. fumiko was very…

    Jul 23, 2026
    734mortenp
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Nice tour of Tokyo
    Don’t visit Tokyo without a guide! You’ll…

    Jul 10, 2026
    Jessica_A
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko was wonderful. …
    Fumiko was wonderful. You can…

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    alistairn2016
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  • Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima Port

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima Port

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Pick-up at Hotel Miyajima
    • 8:31 Setouchi Sea Line, Hotel – Miyajima
    • 8:57 Arrive at Miyajima Port
    • Stroll around Miyajima
    • Take the ropeway to Shishiiwa Observatory, Itsukushima Shrine, stroll along Omotesando, lunch
    • 12:00 Disband at Omotesando
    • 13:55 See-off at the Setouchi Sea Line Miyajima Port ferry terminal

    Title: What Is a Private Miyajima and Mount Misen Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who joined the tour on a weekend during their stay in the Hiroshima area. During our discussion of the itinerary, the top priority was to take the ropeway up Mount Misen, and since it was a weekend, I made an advance reservation and we aimed for the Shishiiwa Observatory. On the day, we were blessed with perfect clear autumn weather and a wonderfully pleasant morning, so the idea of going all the way to the summit came up as well. However, after checking the situation at the ropeway station, we discussed it together and decided to go as far as Shishiiwa, where the guests enjoyed the view.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1JGA Pre-Approved FeeGrand Prince Hotel Hiroshima~Miyajima Port1,150JPY
    Total1,150JPY

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

    Jul 31, 2026
    Helene R
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Experienced guide Hiroshi
    Hiroshi was a great experienced…

    Jul 26, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Miyajima Half-Day customized tour with licensed local guide (Hiroshi)
    We went…

    Jul 17, 2026
    oswaldom406
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour, Fantastic guide!
    We had an absolutely wonderful…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Jennifer L
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Perfect day in Miyajima and Hiroshima
    Hiroshi is…

  • Kyoto: Okochi Sanso Villa & Kyoto Handicraft Center

    Kyoto: Okochi Sanso Villa & Kyoto Handicraft Center

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Meet at Courtyard by Marriott Kyoto Shijo Karasuma
    • 09:00 to 09:50 Okochi Sanso Villa
    • 09:50 to 10:15 Sagano Bamboo Grove
    • 10:40 to 11:20 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 11:45 to 12:30 Nijo Castle
    • 12:45 to 13:30 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 13:45 to 14:15 Shopping at Kyoto Handicraft Center
    • 14:30 Dismissal at Sanjo Kawaramachi

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Sightseeing Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Western Kyoto Highlights The guests today were visitors from North America. They had come to Kyoto for sightseeing while one of them was in Tokyo, and they decided to explore the city together. They often travel abroad, studying the history and culture of each country they visit, and returning to places they found especially interesting. They had long wanted to visit Kyoto, which served as the capital of Japan for 1,000 years. They planned to visit Kyoto's popular sightseeing spots over two days, and today they explored the popular attractions in the western part of Kyoto.

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

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

    Let’s enjoy Japan with me !!

    Dec 30, 2024
    shannono1010
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    Ali O
    Amazing!
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    Haru was amazing on our tour of Nara. He was…

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

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