Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in One Day: Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in One Day: Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple & Nijo Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Kyoto Station
    • 10:00 Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • 10:50 Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • 11:35. Gio-ji Temple
    • 12:10 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • 12:30 Short break
    • 13:55 Nijo Castle
    • 15:15 Drop off at hotel and end tour

    What's a Rainy-Day Private Tour of Kyoto's Arashiyama and Nijo Castle Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests visited Japan from North America, though they were originally from Europe. One of the guests had visited Kyoto for sightseeing about ten years ago, but this was their first time seeing Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, Adashino Nenbutsu-ji, and Gio-ji. The group was very well-behaved and there were no problems at all throughout the tour. Unfortunately it rained, so walking with umbrellas was the norm. Since we had already walked quite a bit in the rain by the time we reached Gio-ji, we took a taxi from Gio-ji to the Arashiyama bamboo grove. Even so, we got fairly wet by the time we arrived at the Arashiyama bamboo grove. After a short break, we proceeded to Nijo Castle. At Nijo Castle, the guests enjoyed the "nightingale floors." The photos were taken in the garden of Nijo Castle.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 2BusNonomiya / Kyoto Bus~Otagidera-mae / Kyoto Bus230JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)~Randen Tenjingawa250JPY
    Section 4SubwayRanden Tenjingawa~Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 5SubwayNijojo-mae~Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)220JPY
    Total1,200JPY

    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
    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…

  • Matsue & Izumo Taisha in 1 Day Tour

    Matsue & Izumo Taisha in 1 Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Unshu Hirata Station (Ichibata Electric Railway) 9:30 → Izumo Taisha-mae Station 9:58 → Izumo Taisha (10:00-12:10, including lunch) → Travel to Matsue by Ichibata Electric Railway (12:20-13:30) → Matsue Castle (13:50-15:20)
    • → Samurai Residence (15:40-16:20) → Meimean (16:30-17:10, including tea) → See off the guest at Matsue Shinjiko Onsen Station (Ichibata Electric Railway) (17:30)
    • *At Izumo Taisha, admission to the Treasure Hall (Shinkokan) is also included.

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Izumo and Matsue in the San'in Region Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Due to train schedules, the tour was moved up by 30 minutes. Since the guest preferred public transportation, we traveled only by train and on foot. The guest was on a solo trip of about a month in Japan, and had chosen the San'in region out of a desire to visit not only major cities but also rural areas. The guest enjoyed the atmosphere around Izumo Taisha Shrine and Matsue Castle, which are deeply connected to Japanese mythology and history and, while attracting a fair number of visitors, are not overly crowded. As the guest planned to stay one more day in this area, I introduced several sightseeing spots that we were not able to visit on this day.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainUnshu Hirata~Izumo Taisha-mae570JPY
    Section 2TrainIzumo Taisha-mae~Matsue Shinjiko Onsen900JPY
    Total1,470JPY

    I started as a volunteer guide for foreign tourists at Matsue Castle in Shimane Prefecture when I was in my 40s, and after retiring at the age of 60, I became a certified interpreter guide and expanded the scope of my activities to include all of Shimane Prefecture, as well as Tottori and Hiroshima Prefectures.
    I was born and raised in Matsue City in western Japan. Matsue is a medium-sized city and the capital of Shimane Prefecture. It is a quiet town that retains the old atmosphere with Matsue Castle, which was built over 400 years ago, and is known for its culture of drinking matcha green tea frequently. I would like to share with you the charm of a regional city like Matsue. Near Matsue, there is a shrine called Izumo Grand Shrine, one of the largest, oldest and most venerated shrines in Japan. The origin of this shrine is written in the Japanese myths, and its precincts are very mysterious. Shimane Prefecture and the neighboring prefecture of Tottori were the setting of Japanese mythology and have well preserved Japan’s historical heritage and traditions. Shimane and Tottori prefectures are not on the so-called “golden route” frequented by foreign tourists, but I hope they will be included in your sightseeing route because they are full of Japan’s unique charm. From its beginnings to the present day, Japan has weaved a long history without being dominated by any other country or, conversely, without advocating hegemony over neighboring countries – although, unfortunately, it did invade Asian countries for a period of time in the 20th century. It is my great pleasure to introduce you to a part of Japan’s culture, which is diverse and peaceful. I am also a guide in Hiroshima Prefecture, the southern neighbor of Shimane Prefecture. I mainly guide visitors to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, where I try to convey the tragic event of the atomic bombing based on the testimonies of those who suffered as much as possible. It is a place that you should definitely visit at least once.
    Furthermore, I hope to convey the Japanese way of thinking and lifestyle through various conversations during the guided tour. This is also one of my joys.
    I myself often travel, and I always make sure to have a guide with me. This is because the quality of the trip is greatly enhanced by the guide’s explanations. I also make an effort to make travelers feel that way. Enjoy your trip!

    Apr 21, 2026
    Michelle W
    Tripadvisor review: Matsue/Izumo Taisha Shrine Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Matsue Private Tour
    Our guide was Katsumi and he…

    May 18, 2025
    F
    FarTooFrequentFlyer
    Bringing its samurai heritage to life!
    Tripadvisor review: Matsue/Izumo Taisha Shrine Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    We lucked in…

    Oct 29, 2024
    Bern_Y
    Day Trip to Izumo Taisha and other Shrines
    Viator review: Matsue/Izumo Taisha Shrine Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide…

    Sep 6, 2024
    Tshiehnewton
    Excellent local guide for English speakers
    Tripadvisor review: Matsue/Izumo Taisha Shrine Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Katsumi Nagata was a…

  • Mie in Half a Day: Walk to Geku (Outer Shrine)

    Mie in Half a Day: Walk to Geku (Outer Shrine)

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:15 – 10:30 Meet the guests at Iseshi Station, handle the direct delivery of luggage to the hotel
    • 10:30 – 10:45 Walk to Geku (Outer Shrine)
    • 10:45 – 11:45 Visit Geku (Outer Shrine)
    • 11:45 – 12:00 Travel by bus from Geku to Naiku (Inner Shrine)
    • 12:00 – 13:00 Lunch at Oharai-machi
    • 13:00 – 14:30 Visit Naiku (Inner Shrine) (including a break after the visit)
    • 14:30 – 15:00 Travel by bus with the guests from in front of Naiku to Kintetsu Isuzugawa Station (end of guide)

    What's a Private Ise Jingu Tour Like for a Family? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a family group. Since they were scheduled to stay at a hotel, I assisted them at the front of Ise-shi Station with signing up for the luggage direct-delivery service to the hotel. Visiting Ise Jingu can be challenging for some in the group, so I guided them with consideration, keeping walking distances shorter and making sure there were chances to rest. With several in the group, each person had a different way of taking things in, which made it a little harder to keep everyone focused, but I did my best to keep them interested. Fortunately, the day was cloudy and the temperature was not too high. Through experiences like guiding a family group this time, I want to keep thinking about how to help everyone, including younger guests, take a greater interest in the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusGeku-mae/Mie Kotsu~Naiku-mae/Mie Kotsu520JPY
    Section 2BusNaiku-mae/Mie Kotsu~Isuzugawa Station-mae/Mie Kotsu300JPY
    Total820JPY

    Hi, I am your guide Henry. Henry Kurata
    I have experience of visiting more than 40 different countries in the world and stayed in USA and UK more than total of 10 years as for expats of Automotive components manufacturer. Since I have decent knowledge about Japanese culture and history. I am pretty much for sure I can be your assistant wherever you go, whatever your interest is. I would help you to have unforgettable experience either in popular place or off the beaten track throughout in Japan.
    If you care about flowering cherry in Japan, I am right person you can trust since I am an enthusiast on researching and watching many different species throughout in Japan. I hope I can meet you in Japan in near future.
    Your wish for wonder is my command.
    Thank you very much!

    Jun 23, 2026
    Andrew_M
    Viator review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Henry is a wonderful guide
    We had a fantastic…

    May 6, 2026
    albypoo
    Tripadvisor review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Unforgettable day at Ise Jingu with Henry
    We were…

    May 6, 2026
    s0ranet
    Tripadvisor review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    充実したツアーでありがとうございました!
    GW期間中で他のツアーがすべて満席だったため、こちらからプライベートガイドを申し込みました。予約サイトから英語のメールが届き、ガイドの倉田さんと直接やり取りをして進める流れでした。

    プライベートツアーを利用するのは初めてだったのですが、ガイドの倉田さんが本当に「神対応」でした!GWの混雑などで私たちが2時間も遅刻してしまったのですが、スケジュールを柔軟に調整してくださり、とても親切に迎えてくださいました。

    伊勢神宮の外宮から内宮をご案内いただいたのですが、知識が大変豊富で、こちらの質問にも的確に答えてくださり、とても充実した時間を過ごすことができました。ユーモアたっぷりでウィットに富んだ素晴らしいお人柄なので、一緒にお話ししていて本当に楽しいです!

    日本語と英語の両方でご対応いただけるそうなので、このサイトを利用する海外の旅行者の方にも強くおすすめします。今回このツアーに申し込んで大正解でした。最高の旅行の思い出をありがとうございました。

    May 1, 2026
    J1543OM_
    Tripadvisor review: Ise Jingu(Ise Grand Shrine) Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    初お伊勢さん
    本日は大変貴重なお時間をいただきありがとうございました。とてもわかりやすい倉田さんのガイドで4時間とても充実した時間を過ごさせていたきました。はじめての伊勢神宮をとても満喫できました。また何かの機会があったら、倉田さんよろしくお願いします。

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet up @Conrad Tokyo
    • 2. 9:10~10:00 Tokyo Tower (including the Main Deck observatory)
    • 3. 10:30~11:30 Senso-ji Temple (Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise Shopping Street, main hall worship)
    • 4. 11:55~12:10 [From the car window] @Tokyo Station Marunouchi side station building, Imperial Palace Tatsumi Yagura Turret, Nijubashi Bridge, Sakuradamon Gate, Imperial Palace Outer Garden, National Diet Building
    • 5. 12:35~13:25 @Meiji Jingu Shrine (approach stroll, main hall worship)
    • 6. 13:35~13:55 Lunch @Shibuya Tsujita
    • 7. 13:55~14:30 @Shibuya (Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Statue, Mega Don Quijote)
    • 8. 15:10 Disband @Conrad Tokyo

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tokyo Tower, Asakusa, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. This trip carried a sentimental element for the group, connected to a personal family history in Okinawa from long ago, though there were no personal memories of the place and the location tied to that history no longer exists today. After arriving in Osaka and sightseeing in Kyoto, the group traveled to Tokyo by Shinkansen and joined this tour. They planned to sightsee for four days based in Tokyo, including a visit to Hakone the following day, before continuing on to Okinawa. At their request, the group went up to the observation deck of Tokyo Tower (the 150m Main Deck). Unfortunately Mount Fuji was not visible, but they enjoyed taking photos with the high-rise buildings in the background and shopping for souvenirs at the shop. Since it was still a little early for lunch when we were in Asakusa, we carried the lunch break over to Shibuya. As the group had not eaten ramen even once on the way from Osaka to Tokyo, the conversation turned to wanting to try ramen, so I guided them to Tsujita in Shibuya. Everyone enjoyed it very much and said it was delicious. After that, they experienced the Scramble Crossing, and I helped take photos of the group striding across it. They were also delighted to take commemorative photos with the life-size Star Wars figure displayed on the first floor of the Starbucks.

    Hello, I’m Noripy.
    I am a lively woman in my 60s who loves having fun. My charm lies in my bright and approachable personality. Drawing on over 30 years of international experience, I began working as a tour guide in 2023. I have conducted over 100 tours annually, ensuring that my clients enjoy Tokyo and its surrounding areas. I have received high praise from a wide range of customers, from teenagers to people in their 80s. I cater to solo travelers, couples, newlyweds, families, and groups of up to about 10 people. Living in the heart of the city, I actively guide tours primarily in Tokyo. In addition to being certified in English, one of my strengths is being able to communicate effectively in Spanish as well.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you all in Tokyo!

    Jul 3, 2026
    Jody D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from Yokohama
    Best Post cruise tour ever
    It was…

    June 19, 2026
    Alec T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo in 4 hours
    Noripy was excellent! She guided us through…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Hema_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely experience. My…
    Lovely experience. My guide was an absolutely adorable lady…

    Jun 3, 2026
    Sara B
    Tokyo walking tour with Noripy. A+!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Noripy gave a 5/5 tour!…

  • Tokyo: Meiji Shrine & Hamarikyu Gardens

    Tokyo: Meiji Shrine & Hamarikyu Gardens

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 MIMARU Tokyo Ikebukuro meetup
    • 10:10 Shinjuku 3D Cat, Godzilla Head, Don Quijote
    • 11:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 12:00 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 13:00 Capybara petting experience at capyneko Harajuku TOKYO (Harajuku Takeshita Street)
    • 14:30 Commemorative photo with the robot concierge "ARISA" next to the Tourist Information Center at Shimbashi Station on the Toei Asakusa Line
    • 14:40 Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 15:45 Lunch "Sushizanmai Main Store"
    • 17:10 Explain how to get to "Akihabara Station" (Taito Station Akihabara) in front of the Hibiya-Higashi Ginza ticket gate, then disband

    What Is a Private Family Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. They had originally booked a tour for the previous day, but concerned about the burden of jet lag right after arriving at the Hotel from the airport early in the morning, they changed their schedule to today. Since there was some flexibility in the schedule today, I was able to take charge of guiding them. They seemed to think they could only visit the places listed in the tour itinerary, so I asked about the interests and wishes of the guests in the hotel lobby and decided today's itinerary accordingly. They had slept well for eleven hours the night before, so their jet lag had been resolved. The guests were all smiling throughout and appeared to enjoy the tour full of energy.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainIkebukuro~Shinjuku200JPY
    Section 2TrainShinjuku~Harajuku160JPY
    Section 3TrainMeiji-jingumae~Shimbashi180JPY
    Total540JPY

    Hello (Konnichiwa). My name is Masanori SUGANO. Most of my friends call me Bruce, so you can call me Bruce. It would be my pleasure to act as a guide for you as I have been a guide for over twenty years. I curate my tours to suit your quest for knowledge and make you laugh with Dad jokes as an ice breaker. I can add some of my experiences as seasoning since I’m a seasoned guide. I always gain a new perspective through my guests’ eyes, and that’s why I am passionate about my job.
    You can create your own itinerary, and when we meet, you can let me know what things you want to see. I am very flexible and can go off the beaten track on your request.
    Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. I am looking forward to meeting you.
    Thank you (Arigatou-gozaimasu).

    Jul 2, 2026
    jamespmccormick
    Tripadvisor review: The Best Family-Friendly Tokyo Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Great Tokyo tour with Bruce!
    We booked a 6 hour…

    Jun 12, 2026
    716suzannab
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing experience
    Bruce was an amazing guide. He taught us some essential…

    May 27, 2026
    beaufordtjustice
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour of Tokyo with Bruce!
    My son and I had a…

    May 24, 2026
    A2151KImelissab
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Day out in Tokyo
    I enjoyed a solo guided tour of Tokyo…

  • Osaka: JR osaka Sta. & return to the hotel Hilton

    Osaka: JR osaka Sta. & return to the hotel Hilton

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9;00 pick you up at the lobby of your Hotel
    • 9:12 JR osaka Sta.
    • (we take JR train)
    • 10:18 JR Nara Sta.
    • (we take bus)
    • 10:50 Kasuga Taisha
    • 11:40 (we take bus)
    • 12:00 Nandaimon Gate
    • (you enjoy giving crackers to deer)
    • Todaiji Temple
    • 13:10 (we have lunch)
    • 14:30 (walk)
    • 14:50 Kofukuji Temple
    • Tokondo (The East Hall)
    • 15:30 (walk on shopping street)
    • 16:04 Kintetsu Nara Sta.
    • (we take Kintetsu train and subway)
    • 17:00 Osaka Umeda Sta.
    • 17:10 return to the hotel Hilton

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Nara Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America. During the walk, they enjoyed themselves throughout. In front of Todai-ji Temple, they bought three packs of deer crackers and had a wonderful time feeding the deer while taking photos. For lunch, the guests enjoyed a variety of dishes, including an eel set meal, omurice and udon, shaved ice, and matcha tea. After visiting Kofuku-ji Temple, I introduced Nakatanido, which is popular for its mochi, and since the guests love mochi, they made a purchase. In the shopping arcade, they took an interest in the 100-yen shop DAISO. Note: When entering the Eastern Golden Hall of Kofuku-ji Temple, I was told that while volunteer guides are free of charge, licensed guide-interpreters are charged an entrance fee, so I purchased a ticket.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOsaka~Nara840JPY
    Section 2BusKasuga Taisha Main Shrine/Nara Kotsu~Kasuga Taisha Main Shrine/Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Section 3BusKasuga Taisha Main Shrine/Nara Kotsu~Todaiji Temple Great Buddha Hall・National Museum/Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Section 4TrainKintetsu Nara~Umeda (Subway)830JPY
    Total2,170JPY

    Hello, I’m HIDEo YOSHIda. Please call me HIDEYOSHI, the same name as a famous shogun who unified Japan for the first time in 1590.
    I was born in Kobe, worked in Osaka for nearly 40 years. I would like to introduce you Kansai region, including Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara and Wakayama.
    In Kyoto, I can guide you Nijojo Castle, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kinkakuji Tempe (Golden Pavilion), Gion area, and Fushimi Inari Taisha.
    In Osaka, I’ll show you Osaka Castle, Shinsekai, Dotonbori, and Umeda Sky biilding. We have locall foods such as Kushikatau, Okonomiyaki and Takoyaki.
    In Kobe, I’ll take you to former foreign residential area, Sannomiya Shopping Street, Chinese Market, and Arima Onsen.
    In Nara, I’ll guide you Todaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, Kasuga Taisha, and Yakushiji Temple.
    In Wakayama, I take you to Koyasan, the center of Esoteric Buddhism.
    I enjoy guiding foreign tourists.
    I can show you Japanese history, especially samurai period, and Shinto and Buddhism.
    I’ve been looking forward to guiding you !!

    Jun 1, 2026
    Stephan_F
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great overview of the…
    Great overview of the highlights of Kyoto with…

    May 28, 2025
    terrym866
    Kyoto guided tour was as promised. Very knowledgeable guide and driver .
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full Day Tour from Kobe with…

    Oct 17, 2024
    katiya2017
    Walking visit in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Government-Licensed Guide
    We booked a full day walking…

    Sep 29, 2024
    Roy_M
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a very good private tour with…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Travel to Miyajima & Travel to Hiroshima

    Hiroshima in One Day: Travel to Miyajima & Travel to Hiroshima

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 10:15 Travel to Miyajima
    • 11:05 Miyajima sightseeing
    • 12:00 Travel to Hiroshima
    • 13:00 Lunch at a restaurant
    • 14:30 Visit the Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Memorial Park, and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
    • 16:15 Travel to Hiroshima Station via Hiroshima Castle and Shukkeien Garden
    • 18:50 Travel to Hiroshima Station
    • 17:25 Disband at Hiroshima Station

    Title: What Is a Private Hiroshima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I was surprised when a travel agency suddenly sent me a series of questions via a messaging app. It may have been their first time arranging a Hiroshima tour. I carelessly responded and ended up spending a great deal of time on it, which made me reflect deeply on how important it is to communicate through the [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) system. At first, from the way one of the guests spoke, I did not realize there was a hearing difficulty, and there were moments of confusion, but once I understood the situation, things proceeded smoothly. I was impressed by how wonderfully the guests were being cared for within the group.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherHiroshima Station Shinkansen Platform~Hiroshima Station Shinkansen Exit150JPY
    Section 2TrainHiroshima Station~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Total570JPY

    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 Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0800 THE BLOSSOM HIBIYA (5 min from JR Shimbashi Station) meet up
    • 0830 Ueno Park, Kiyomizu Kannon-do, Ueno Toshogu, Ameyoko
    • 0950 Asakusa, Azumabashi, Kaminarimon, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine
    • 1110 Akihabara, Don Quijote, Radio Kaikan, Yodobashi Camera
    • 1200 Tokyo Station, Marunouchi Building Pine Piles, Gyoko-dori, Tatsumi Yagura
    • 1310 Meiji Jingu Shrine visit
    • 1415 Guide to Takeshita Street then disband

    Title: What's a Private Tokyo Day Tour to Ueno, Ameyoko, and Akihabara Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They had long wished to make this trip and arrived the previous afternoon, having already visited Shibuya. Today's main purpose was to help them get familiar with Tokyo's transportation network and to check out sightseeing highlights. After my tour today, they planned to attend a cooking class in the evening in the Shirokanedai area. Tomorrow they intended to visit TeamLab Borderless, and after that they would travel on to Hakone before heading to the Kansai region. Since we started early today, Ueno Park was no problem, but at Ameyoko many shops had not yet opened. They said they would come back another day in the afternoon. One of the guests was very keen on cameras and was amazed by the camera section at Yodobashi, but wanted to browse at leisure, so planned to return another day. Another was apparently an anime fan and did a little shopping at the Radio Kaikan building, and likewise planned to come back again. Since they had already been to Shibuya the day before, today (in the time before the cooking class) they wanted to enjoy some light food and shopping on Takeshita Street, so I handed them a map at the entrance, gave an overview, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassShimbashi~Ueno700JPY
    Section 2Free PassUeno~Asakusa0JPY
    Section 3Free PassAsakusa~Suehirocho0JPY
    Section 4TrainAkihabara~Tokyo160JPY
    Section 5Free PassNijubashimae~Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Total860JPY

    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.

    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
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    May 18, 2026
    B
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  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Sensoji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:25  Meet up @ Komagome 3-4-8 (AirBnB)
    • 10:10 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:00 Takeshita Street
    • 12:20 Lunch @ Tanaka Soba Shop (Asakusa)
    • 12:50 Sensoji Temple
    • 14:10 Disband @ Harajuku

    What Is a Private Tokyo Sightseeing Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania on their first trip to Japan. After sightseeing in Tokyo, they planned to visit Osaka and Kyoto. At Meiji Shrine, they seemed deeply impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere. They also listened with great interest to the explanations about the Meiji Restoration and the role of the Emperor. On Takeshita Street, some of the guests showed great interest in many of the shops. They mentioned that they would like to return after the tour to take their time shopping. At Senso-ji Temple, they listened with interest to explanations about the differences between temples and shrines, as well as about Kaminarimon Gate. Since I accommodated the guests' wishes throughout, I believe they were satisfied.

    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
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    Seizo Kamiuto was out…

    Jun 9, 2026
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    Our guide, Seizo, was amazing.…

    Jun 6, 2026
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  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Daikaku-ji Temple & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Daikaku-ji Temple & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 14:00 Meet at Park Hyatt Kyoto
    • 14:40 Daikaku-ji Temple
    • 16:15 To-ji Temple
    • 17:20 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 18:25 Disperse in front of Tonkatsu Katsukura Sanjo Main Store

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Temple Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. They had researched the destinations in the [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) itinerary in detail and decided on the places they wished to see, so we first headed to Daikaku-ji Temple. There were almost no other visitors, so we were able to take our time, and I could explain everything carefully. After that, we went to To-ji Temple. Since the closing time was approaching, we were a little rushed, but I gave a detailed explanation, and I believe the guests were satisfied. We then visited Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and because it was late in the afternoon, there were few people, so the guests were delighted to be able to take good photos. Before this tour, the guests had experienced a tea ceremony and had not had time for lunch, so I recommended a tonkatsu restaurant, which they gladly accepted. I took them to its main branch in Sanjo and we parted ways there. I believe the guests were satisfied.

    Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

    Jul 25, 2026
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    Jul 12, 2026
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