Category: Uncategorized

  • Takayama Customized Half-Day Tour

    Takayama Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Takayama Station 1210→1220 Hondamachi→1245 Standby Hida-tei Hanaogi 1300→(Customer's taxi use)→1330 Kami-Sannomachi (Lunch time・Sake brewery tour) 1430→1530 Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall 1600→1630 Hida Kokubunji Temple 1650→(Customer's taxi use)→1700 Hida-tei Hanaogi (End at location)

    Can You Do a Private Walking Tour of Takayama Focused on Sake Breweries? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. On the day of the tour, they arrived dramatically in Takayama by helicopter from Hakone. After a brief planning discussion, it quickly became clear that what they were most looking forward to in Takayama was visiting the sake breweries, so I guided them to a favorite brewery on Kamisannomachi (Harada Sake Brewery), where they greatly enjoyed the sake tasting, offered as all-you-can-drink for 500 yen (including the purchase of a tasting cup). After that, in addition to souvenir shopping along the old streets, we strolled through the quiet Shimoninomachi area, and visited the Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall and Hida Kokubunji Temple. Along the way, I answered their questions about Takayama and daily life in Japan, and also provided information about a recommended place for dinner featuring Hida beef.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusTakayama Nohi Bus Center/Nohi Bus~Matsumotomachi/Nohi Bus210JPY
    Section 2BusMatsumotomachi/Nohi Bus~Takayama Nohi Bus Center/Nohi Bus210JPY
    Total420JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meji Jingu Shrine & Tsukiji outer market

    Tokyo in One Day: Meji Jingu Shrine & Tsukiji outer market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 meeting in the lobby of your hotel – Hyatt House Tokyo Shibuya
    • 13:15〜14:05 Meji Jingu Shrine
    • 14:25〜15:45Tsukiji outer market (including lunch in a sushi restaurant)
    • 16:10〜18:10 Asakusa (Sensoji temple, Nakamise shopping street,
    • Asakusa Shrine and seeing
    • Sky Tree from the distance)
    • 19:00 End of the tour at Hyatt House Tokyo Shibuya

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Tsukiji, and Asakusa The guests were a group visiting from North America, coming to Japan for the first time. Because of this, we communicated in advance and set the itinerary described above. Before visiting Meiji Shrine, I explained Shinto, Buddhism, and the Japanese perspective on religion. In the shrine grounds, a Shinto-style wedding ceremony was taking place, and there were many families celebrating Shichi-Go-San, so I explained the related customs. In Tsukiji, the guests enjoyed Edo-style sushi at a well-known sushi restaurant. They appeared very satisfied. After that, I took them to Namiyoke Shrine. In Asakusa, we first went to the observation deck of the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center to give them an overall view of Asakusa, and I explained the history of Sensoji Temple. We strolled along Nakamise Street, and the guests purchased souvenirs for their family. After that, I took them to Asakusa Shrine and explained the connection between the founding of Sensoji Temple and Asakusa Shrine. Before heading back to Shibuya, I took them to a spot along the Sumida River where there is a spectacular view of the Skytree, and we took photos. At that time, we passed a police box, and I explained how the Japanese koban system functions even more effectively than the so-called community policing systems in Western countries, and how much it helps in preventing crime. The guests listened with great interest. Overall, I believe it was a good tour. The guests said there was no problem with sharing photos, so I am sharing their photos.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShibuya~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 3SubwayTsukiji~Asakusa290JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa~Shibuya260JPY
    Total910JPY

    My name is Takashi Koizumi. I work as a nationally licensed tour guide, based in Tokyo. Please allow me to introduce myself. I was born and raised in Hiroshima, Japan. I obtained an MA in Peace Studies at University of Ulster in Northern Ireland, UK. I worked in war-torn areas in the former-Yugoslavia, including Croatia, Macedonia, and Kosovo for 15 years between 1996and 2011, engaging in peacemaking and inter-ethnic reconciliation issues through the United Nations and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe. I worked in the Tohoku region affected by the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake for four years from 2012 and 2016, engaging in a long-term NGO recovery program.

    In 2019, I changed my career, starting to work as a licensed tour guide registered in Tokyo Metropolis. Since then, I have covered more than 180 one-day tours and 21 long tours lasting for more than 10 days. Regions where I have worked cover large parts of Japanese archipelago, including Tokyo, Kamakura, Hokkaido, Atami, Fuji, Hakone, Nagano, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Hiroshima, Okayama, Kurashiki, Marugame and Fukuoka.

    As an excellent tour guide for international tourists, I have a deep understanding and knowledge of religion, culture, and history in Japan. I pride myself on being able to provide you with a comprehensive and engaging experience that highlights the rich tapestry of these aspects.

    I tailor my tours to suit the interest and preferences of each group. By understanding your preferences through informal conversation, I curate personalized itineraries that satisfy your needs.

    Through my extensive oversea experience, I am well-versed in cross-cultural communication. I am also fully aware of the challenges that international tourists often face in Japan.

    Furthermore, I am committed to fostering cultural sensitivity and respect throughout the tour. I educate guests on appropriate behavior, dress codes, and etiquette when visiting religious and cultural facilities such as Buddhis temples, Shinto shrines, and Japanese gardens.

    In conclusion, through my in-depth knowledge of religion, culture and history, personalized itineraries, and commitment to cultural sensitivity, you can expect unforgettable and excellent experiences that deepen your understanding and appreciation of Japan’s rich religious, cultural, and historical heritage.

    I am looking forward to meeting you.

    Best regards,

    Takashi

    Nov 6, 2025
    janhN5861ZU
    Excellent way to see Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Takashi was our travel guide for a…

    Aug 27, 2025
    753lourdesh
    Exploring Tokyo with Takashi
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Takashi Koizumi, was absolutely AMAZING!! Booking…

    Jun 22, 2025
    pkj1909
    Wonderful & a memorable Trip
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Private Tour from Tokyo with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    We were assigned Mr.…

    Dec 31, 2024
    andreslau84
    Fantastic tour of Tokyo !
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    What an amazing day with Takashi, he…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 15:00 Yokozuna Tonkatsu-15:30 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace-16:30 Harajuku Takeshita Street-17:15 Shibuya Scramble Crossing-19:00 Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observation Deck-20:00 Dinner 21:10 Disband at Shinjuku West Exit

    Title: What Is a Second-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace East Gardens, Harajuku, and Shinjuku The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from the Middle East. This was the second day of their tour, and they appeared to be experiencing significant jet lag. They were impressed by the striking contrast of old and new at the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, home to the ruins of the former Edo Castle, set against the modern office buildings of Otemachi and Marunouchi. On Takeshita Street in Harajuku, they were surprised by the animal cafés featuring creatures such as mini pigs. At the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, they happened to encounter a projection mapping show. At a yakiniku restaurant where we stopped for dinner, they ordered extra portions of delicious beef and enjoyed a hearty, satisfying meal.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 2BusJingumae 1-chome/Toei Bus~Shibuya Station West Exit/Toei Bus210JPY
    Section 3BusShibuya Station/Keio Bus~Shinjuku Sumitomo Building/Keio Bus230JPY
    Total650JPY

    Welcome to Japan. My name is Michio, your tour guide in Tokyo and Japan. I was born and grown up in Tokyo, and still living in western suburb of Tokyo with my wife, except for 10 years outside of Japan travelling and living in 60 countries. So I might have visited your country and still remember a few words.
    Japan has unique history, nature and culture, and there are plenty of secrets and wonders behind them such as food culture, Zen and Ninja.
    So please explore and discover the hidden and most beautiful part of Japan together. Let’s experience!

    Oct 25, 2025
    Carla_G
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking…
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking tour was fantastic! Michio…

    Oct 24, 2025
    410trishab
    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 10/10 — Outstanding Tour with Michio and Nobuhiko!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from…

    Oct 11, 2025
    GoPlaces52694049181
    We enjoyed our time in Tokyo with Michio our tour guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We…

    Oct 10, 2025
    PiscesV
    Sushi for breakfast at 630am? Yes please!!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel – 11:00 Fukagawa Fudodo & Tomioka Hachimangu – 12:10 Tsukiji Outer Market – 12:50 Lunch – 13:30 Imperial Palace East Gardens – 14:15 Disband at Otemon

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji and Fukagawa Fudo-do The guest was a visitor from North America who had been to Japan twice before, making this the third visit. The guest travels to Japan every November. On previous trips, most of the time had been spent on other commitments, but during a free window on one occasion the guest had visited Mount Koya. Because of the connection to Kobo Daishi, I suggested visiting Fukagawa Fudo-do, and we decided to go. At Mount Koya the guest had stayed at a temple lodging and experienced the monks' morning prayers, but the "goma" fire ritual at Fukagawa Fudo-do was a completely new experience. The guest was also delighted by the sushi at Tsukiji.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainEbisu~Monzen-nakacho210JPY
    Section 2SubwayMonzen-nakacho~Tsukiji Market180JPY
    Section 3SubwayMonzen-nakacho~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Total570JPY

    Welcome to Japan. My name is Michio, your tour guide in Tokyo and Japan. I was born and grown up in Tokyo, and still living in western suburb of Tokyo with my wife, except for 10 years outside of Japan travelling and living in 60 countries. So I might have visited your country and still remember a few words.
    Japan has unique history, nature and culture, and there are plenty of secrets and wonders behind them such as food culture, Zen and Ninja.
    So please explore and discover the hidden and most beautiful part of Japan together. Let’s experience!

    Oct 25, 2025
    Carla_G
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking…
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking tour was fantastic! Michio…

    Oct 24, 2025
    410trishab
    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 10/10 — Outstanding Tour with Michio and Nobuhiko!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from…

    Oct 11, 2025
    GoPlaces52694049181
    We enjoyed our time in Tokyo with Michio our tour guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We…

    Oct 10, 2025
    PiscesV
    Sushi for breakfast at 630am? Yes please!!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Shinjuku Gyoen & Takeshita Street

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Shinjuku Gyoen & Takeshita Street

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet up @ Prince Sakura Tower
    • 12:00 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 13:15 Meiji Shrine
    • 14:00 Takeshita Street
    • 14:45 Shibuya: Scramble Crossing~Scramble Square
    • 15:15 Disband @ Shibuya Station taxi stand

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shinjuku Gyoen, Meiji Shrine, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting from North America, stopping in Tokyo on the way to another destination. As it was their first visit to Japan, they were more impressed than expected by the Japanese garden at Shinjuku Gyoen. At Meiji Shrine, as it happened to be an auspicious day, they were pleased to see a wedding procession and children dressed up for the Shichi-Go-San celebration. On Takeshita Street, they described it as "crazy" in a good way at first, though they were not so keen on the animal cafe. We crossed the Shibuya Scramble Crossing in both directions, but since taking photos from the Starbucks there has become difficult unless you make a purchase, I took them to the 12th floor of the Scramble Square building to photograph the crossing from above. Along the way I introduced teamLab Borderless, and since a reservation could be secured, I saw the guests into a taxi at Shibuya Station, ending the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinagawa~Shinjuku210JPY
    Section 2TrainSendagaya~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku~Shibuya150JPY
    Total510JPY

    Hello! My name is Hideki Maruyama. I was born in Osaka and raised in the Greater Tokyo area. I obtained my National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate in February 2016.
    I spent 23 years working at a leading Japanese automotive company, including 7 years posted overseas. I then worked for a German premium automotive manufacturer for 13 years, followed by 6 years as an advisor to a British energy company. Through these roles at global corporations, I developed and refined key skills such as:
    1. Cross-cultural communication
    2. A deep understanding of business elites and affluent customers
    3. The ability to deliver impactful and impressive presentations in English
    In addition to my regular duties, I often served as an interpreter for top executives during meetings with foreign government officials. I also had opportunities to introduce aspects of Japan—such as our national character and consumer preferences—to leadership teams in both the German and British companies.
    As a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding guests from a wide range of countries especially after the pandemic, including the US, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Norway, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

    Jun 14, 2026
    tiffany_w
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Phenomenal experiance
    Hideki san was an amazing guide. He was incredibly knowledgable…

    Jun 13, 2026
    Joshua_A
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The Best Guide I Had in Japan
    Hideki was, without question, my…

    May 2, 2026
    Bruce G
    Our guide (Hideki san) was a master. It was a rainy day and he suggested a new plan in anticipation…

    Apr 30, 2026
    johnbD9596UO
    Lovely Private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I had a great…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Celestine Kyoto Gion & Teramachi Shopping Arcade

    Kyoto in One Day: Celestine Kyoto Gion & Teramachi Shopping Arcade

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:30 The Celestine Kyoto Gion
    • 12:00 Fushimiinari (0) by train
    • 13:00 Kiyomizudera (500) by taxi
    • Sannenzaka by walking
    • Yasaka-no-to by walking
    • Yasaka Kosindo by walking
    • Skipping lunch
    • 15:00 Kinkakuji (500) by taxi
    • 16:00 Ryoanji (600) by taxi
    • 17:10 Teramachi Shopping Arcade
    • 17:30 End of the tour

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report with Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, and Kinkaku-ji The guests were visitors from North America. They had visited Nara the day before and traveled from Osaka on the day of the tour, so we started at 11:30. The bamboo grove in Sagano had originally been part of the plan, but based on advice from a friend that it is better to go early in the morning, we changed the itinerary. Since they had bought a goshuin book in Nara and started at Todai-ji, they were able to collect goshuin stamps at today's destinations: Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji, and Ryoan-ji. However, at Ryoan-ji it was a little late in the day, so they could not have it written directly and instead had the date added to a pre-written sheet. Finally, we went to Teramachi shopping arcade, where I provided information about various shops, and then we concluded the tour. When asked for a dinner recommendation, I introduced a yakiniku restaurant within walking distance of the hotel and made a reservation for them. It seems they enjoyed it very much.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGion-Shijo~Fushimi Inari240JPY
    Total240JPY

    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…

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Pirate ship & Motohakone Port

    Kanagawa in One Day: Pirate ship & Motohakone Port

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at Hakone-Yumoto
    • 9:37 Take the mountain train to the Hakone Open-Air Museum
    • 11:43 From the Hakone Open-Air Museum, take the bus to Choanji Temple in Sengoku
    • 13:05 From Sengoku, take the bus to Togendai
    • 13:55 Pirate ship
    • 14:35 To Motohakone Port
    • 15:05 Take the bus to the Oku-Yumoto entrance
    • Accompany until arrival at 15:30, where the guests get off and the tour disbands. The guests will, according to their own plans, enjoy the hot springs and a meal at the nearby Tenzan Onsen before returning to Tokyo.

    **Title:** What Can You See on a 6-Hour Private Hakone Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report **Body:** The guests requested a route covering the Hakone Open-Air Museum, Choanji Temple, Sengoku Highlands, and the pirate ship cruise, followed by a drop-off near a hot spring town. Since six hours would not allow time for a meal, I explained this in advance and they understood. I rather firmly suggested viewing the pampas grass fields from the car window, but the guests remained cheerful and accommodating throughout. Whenever there was a moment, I talked about Japanese culture and various topics, and they listened with great interest. The guests came from a nature-rich town in North America. They all had a very kind and easygoing manner, and we spent the time in a warm, friendly atmosphere. The autumn foliage was at its peak, and since they had maple trees at their own home as well, they showed me photos taken about ten days earlier.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOdawara Station~Odawara Station6,000JPY
    Total6,000JPY

    I am Hiroki Morikawa :Hiro:, English guide living with my wife ,just a hop skip and jump from Hakone, Kamakura, Tokyo and the Mt. Fuji.
    I am a friendly grandfather of 4 grandchildren.
    I would love to help you enjoy Japan, using my 3 strong points.
    First: I am used to dealing with any kind of matters. I have experienced various situations in the 40 years of my working life.
    Second: I am good at making a friendly atmosphere between you and local people to help you enjoy Japan. I was raised in western Japan, studied in northern Japan and now live in central Japan. So I know various local cultures and dialects to communicate with a wide variety of people.
    Third: I can explain things from a technical point of view.
    For example, how the Great Buddha was constructed, because I am a master of engineering graduated from Hokkaido University.
    Please enjoy Japan with me. See you soon!!
    dummy

    Jun 30, 2026
    G2432BLtimothyc
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Full Day Tour with Guide and Vehicle
    6 hour tour of Hakone
    we had a great experience with…

    Jun 25, 2026
    T7734IPbrandons
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in hakone
    Niro was perfect for us. He was…

    Jun 8, 2026
    JasonB6980
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hiro-san knows Hakone!
    Our guide, Hiro-san, did a wonderful job introducing…

    Jun 7, 2026
    Tourist31988989961
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura 8 hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide from Tokyo
    Great Day and Tour
    Kamakura was amazing. Enjoyed…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Nijo & Kinkaku-ji-michi

    Kyoto in One Day: Nijo & Kinkaku-ji-michi

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ Hotel Kyoto Nijo Premium
    • 9:18-9:28 Nijo → Saga-Arashiyama JR 200 yen
    • 9:40-11:00 Arashiyama sightseeing (Tenryu-ji Temple, Bamboo Grove Path, etc.)
    • 11:16-11:23 Saga-Arashiyama → Enmachi JR 180 yen
    • 11:25-35 Nishinokyo Enmachi → Waratenjin Bus 230 yen
    • 11:40- 12:20 Lunch @ Gontaro Kinkaku-ji Store
    • 12:35-13:15 Kinkaku-ji Temple sightseeing
    • 13:15-13:40 Kinkaku-ji-michi → Nijo Castle Bus 230 yen
    • 13:50-14:40 Nijo Castle sightseeing
    • 15:00 Dismissal @ Hotel Kyoto Nijo Premium

    What Does a Private Kyoto Day Tour Cover? Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji, and Nijo Castle — A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. We visited Tenryu-ji Temple and the Bamboo Grove Path in Arashiyama, then Kinkaku-ji, and Nijo Castle. I explained the relationship between the Ashikaga shogunate and Tenryu-ji, Kinkaku-ji, and Ginkaku-ji. For lunch, at a restaurant near Kinkaku-ji, the guests enjoyed a set meal of tempura and udon, which they found delicious. At Nijo Castle, the guests listened attentively as I explained that it was the place marking both the beginning and the end of the Tokugawa shogunate, and that it was used to display authority toward regional feudal lords while maintaining surveillance and a good relationship with the imperial family.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNijo~Saga-Arashiyama200JPY
    Section 2TrainSaga-Arashiyama~Enmachi180JPY
    Section 3BusNishinokyo Enmachi (JR Enmachi Station) / Kyoto City Bus~Waratenjin-mae / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4BusKinkaku-ji-michi / Kyoto City Bus~Nijo Castle-mae230JPY
    Total840JPY

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

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

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

    I look forward to attending you in Japan.

    Best regards,

    Andy Murao

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

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

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

    Jun 5, 2026
    Janice_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 9hr Private Tour (Kobe Dep. ) with Licensed Guide
    Great tour of Kyoto
    It was a good tour…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Kitano Ijinkan-gai & Nunobiki Herb Garden

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Kitano Ijinkan-gai & Nunobiki Herb Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Kobe Port Terminal
    • 10:30 at Kitano Ijinkan-gai (Foreigners' Residences) ("Moegi House", "Weathercock House")
    • 11:45 at Nunobiki Herb Garden
    • 13:00 Disband at Port Liner Sannomiya Station

    Title: What's a Private Nunobiki Herb Garden Tour in Kobe Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America. In our pre-tour communication, there had been a request to traverse Mount Rokko, but after checking with the local railway company (who commented that, unless the person is an intermediate or experienced hiker, it would be quite difficult and not recommended for older overseas travelers), I explained this to the guests, and they agreed to change the plan to the Nunobiki Herb Garden. Even at this spot, however, there was a request to use the usual ropeway going up but to walk down on the way back. This is my own home area, and it is a course I experienced many times decades ago, but since it is still quite challenging, I recommended that walking down was possible to the midway station but that they use the ropeway from there on, which they accepted. When I actually met the guests on the day, one seemed confident about walking, while the other appeared less comfortable with it. As a result, the latter stopped several times along the way to rest instead of visiting each spot. I could not fully grasp their interests, but regarding the two places we visited, they gave the comment that they were "very good, wonderful spots and were satisfied." At the Herb Garden, they were able to see the cruise ship they were using, and the wonderful Christmas decorations happened to begin that very day, which pleased them. In the end, feeling a little tired, we parted ways about an hour early. I presented a handmade drawstring pouch made by a member of my family, which they were happy to receive as a nice memento. Note) Regarding this "mountain walk" matter, I reported it to the staff at [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) and received their advice.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainPort Terminal~Sannomiya (Kobe New Transit)210JPY
    Section 2SubwayShin-Kobe~Sannomiya (Kobe Municipal)210JPY
    Total420JPY

    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
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  • Kagawa in One Day: Takamatsu Port & Naoshima bus

    Kagawa in One Day: Takamatsu Port & Naoshima bus

    Tour Itinerary

    • 07:15 Hotel Takamatsu lobby [Meet]
    • on foot
    • 07:41 Takamatsu Port
    • by passenger boat
    • 08:16 Ieura Port (Teshima)
    • 08:30 Ieura Port Bus Stop
    • by town bus
    • 08:42 Karato Shukaiasho Bus Stop
    • on foot (visit some outdoor artworks and “Rice Terrace”)
    • 10:15~11:15Teshima Art Museum
    • 11:30~12:00 Lunch at Teshima Kitchen
    • 12:15 Karatoshukaisho Bus Stop
    • by town bus
    • 12:27 Ieura Port (Teshima) Bus Stop
    • 13:00 Ieura Port (Teshima)
    • by passenger boat
    • 13:20 Naoshima (Honmura) Port
    • on foot
    • 13:32 Naoshima Hall Bus Stop
    • by art express bus
    • 13:45 Chichu Art Museum Bus Stop
    • 14:15~14:45 Chichu Art Museum
    • 14:55 Chichu Art Museum Bus Stop
    • by art express bus
    • 14:59 Benesse House Museum Bus Stop
    • 15:05~15:45 Benesse House Museum & Outdoor Artworks (including “Yellow Pumpkin”)
    • on foot
    • 15:50 Tsutsujiso Bus Stop
    • by town bus
    • 16:03 Naoshima (Miyanoura) bus Stop
    • “Red Pumpkin”, stood in line for embarking the ferry
    • 17:00 Naoshima (Miyanoura) Port
    • by ferry
    • 18:00 Takamatsu Port
    • on foot
    • 18:10 Hotel Clement Takamatsu [Say goodbye]00

    Title: What Is a One-Day Private Tour of Naoshima and Teshima Like During the Setouchi Triennale? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was traveling solo from North America. Over 17 days from October 23 to November 8, they were touring Tokyo, Matsumoto, Kamikochi, Hida, Takayama, Kyoto, and Naoshima. On Naoshima, the guest very much wanted to see the Teshima Art Museum and the architecture of Tadao Ando, so it was a busy trip covering both Teshima and Naoshima in a single day. Since it was during the Setouchi Triennale, I was worried about being left behind on the high-speed boats and ferry for Takamatsu → Teshima, Teshima → Naoshima (Honmura Port), and Naoshima → Takamatsu, as well as on the buses in Naoshima and Teshima, but in the end we were able to get around smoothly. For the 7:41 high-speed boat from Takamatsu → Teshima, we lined up to buy tickets from 6:30, but there were already more than 20 people waiting. This ticket was essential and any delay would have thrown off the rest of the itinerary, so I handled it carefully. The ferry from Naoshima Miyanoura Port to Takamatsu Port has a capacity of 500, but the situation was such that some passengers would be left behind on a single sailing, so an additional ferry was added as a special service. We waited in line for about 50 minutes from around 16:00 and were able to board the first sailing safely to return to Takamatsu. The guest was especially moved by the Teshima Art Museum, which they had particularly wanted to see, and was delighted with the one-day Teshima and Naoshima tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1FerryTakamatsu (Kagawa Prefecture)~Ieura Port1,450JPY
    Section 2FerryIeura Port~Honmura Port (Naoshima)630JPY
    Section 3FerryMiyanoura Port (Naoshima)~Takamatsu (Kagawa Prefecture)680JPY
    Section 4BusNaoshima Hall (Art House Project) / Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture~Chichu Art Museum / Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture300JPY
    Section 5BusTsutsujiso / Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture~Miyanoura Port (Naoshima)100JPY
    Section 6OtherIeura Port~Karato Shukaisho-mae400JPY
    Section 7OtherKarato Shukaisho-mae~Ieura Port400JPY
    Section 8BusChichu Art Museum / Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture~Benesse House Museum-shita / Naoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture300JPY
    Total4,260JPY

    Hello. My name is Hisao Kaji. I was born in 1945. I was raised in Takamatsu City from 3 years old. So, I have been living in Takamatsu for around 75 years. I believe I know Takamatsu City and the Kagawa prefecture area very well. If you come to Takamatsu, Kagawa I think you can enjoy your tour with me. I started a Government Licensed Guide in 2019. So, I have been a licensed guide for about 5 years. My favorite destinations are Naoshima, Teshima, Ritsurin Garden, the top of Mt. Yashima and so on. I always show you an itinerary about one month before your tour date, and I will accept any questions, other favorite places you want to visit. Communicating with you, I would like to accommodate your request for your tour. I always listen to NPR on the internet to know how the world is moving and improve my English. I like conversation based upon it with my life. I stayed in the USA for 8 months for a Power Systems Engineering Course conducted by General Electric in New York State when I was 28 years old. I sometimes talk about my memory of those days with the guests. I am very happy to guide tourists because I can see the guests become happy and enjoy themselves when I am guiding better. Nothing is more wonderful than that. I welcome your visit to Takamatsu City and Kagawa Prefecture. I believe you will have a pleasant time through my guide.

    Apr 19, 2026
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