Category: Uncategorized

  • Nada Sake Breweries Kobe Local Tour

    Nada Sake Breweries Kobe Local Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up @ Kikumasamune Sake Brewery Museum
    • 2. 10:10 @ Kikumasamune Sake Brewery Museum (brewery tour, barrel sake MF tour, sake cup exhibition hall tour, sake tasting)
    • 3. 12:20 @ Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum (brewery tour, sake tasting)
    • 4. 13:30 Lunch @ Sakabayashi (Kobe Shushinkan)
    • 5. 14:30 @ Kobe Shushinkan (brewery shop Tomeigura, sake tasting)
    • 6. 16:00 Disband @ Kobe Shushinkan

    What Is a Private Kobe Sake Brewery Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were visitors from North America making their first trip to Japan (they mentioned they originally came from South America). During this tour, the meeting point changed several times, which was surprising. The first meeting point was a hotel on Rokko Island. However, the day before the tour, I received a message that they would not be staying at that hotel, and the meeting point was changed to JR Sannomiya Station. On the day of the tour, while I was heading to the meeting point by train, I received another message saying that they would not make it in time to Sannomiya Station and would instead take a taxi directly to the first destination, the Kikumasamune Sake Brewery Museum. For this reason, we met at the Kikumasamune Sake Brewery Museum. Here, in addition to touring the brewery, we visited a sake barrel-making demonstration (which had been reserved) and a sake cup exhibition hall, and sampled various kinds of sake, both paid and free. Next was the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum. Here too, after learning about the sake brewing process of both the past and the present through a video, we sampled various kinds of sake. The guests were extremely enthusiastic about sake. Next, we had a meal at a restaurant operated by Kobe Shushinkan. The guests ordered many dishes and sake, enjoyed their meal, and were delighted, saying that Japanese cuisine is the best in the world. After the meal came a brewery tour and tasting. At this time, a staff member originally from South America came in and handled the tasting. They conversed with the guests in Portuguese, and the guests were able to sample various kinds of sake that are not normally offered. Since the guests wished to end the tour here, we concluded the tour. The guests were very pleased with this tour, and on my way home they sent me a message saying, "It was a wonderful day. Thank you."

    Hello, my name is Norio Oki, a Government-Certified Tour Guide in Japan.
    I specialize in guiding visitors through the beautiful and historic regions of Himeji and Kobe.

    My expertise includes Japanese history, traditional culture, castles, and sake. I enjoy sharing not only facts, but also the stories and spirit behind each place.

    In Himeji, I offer guided tours of Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden, Shoshazan Engyoji Temple, and Nadagiku Sake Brewery.
    In Kobe, I guide guests through the Nada Sake Breweries area, Mt. Rokko, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, Harborland, Meriken Park, the Kitano District, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, and the lively Motomachi Shopping Street.

    Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local experiences, I will create a personalized tour tailored to your interests.

    If you’re planning to visit Himeji or Kobe, I would be delighted to be your guide.
    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Sep 29, 2026
    X
    X1794ZGstevew
    Kobe 4hr guided tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Norio pickup us up ontime &…

    Sep 17, 2026
    jacquelinecI8863UY
    No rush beautiful walking tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a wonderful time. Norio…

    Sep 15, 2026
    niy679
    Kobe day trip
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had an amazing tour with Norio. He…

    Jul 7, 2026
    77guye
    The best way to experience Himeji Castle
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    What a great way to…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Shinjuku

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Shinjuku

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 9:40 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 11:00 From Tokyo Station to the Imperial Palace
    • 12:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 13:10 Takeshita Street
    • 14:30 Shibuya
    • 14:50 Shinjuku

    What Can You See on a Private Tsukiji, Meiji Shrine, Harajuku and Shinjuku Day Tour in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. They had arrived the previous night and planned to stay in Tokyo for several nights, after which they would enjoy a week of skiing in Hokkaido. We first headed to the Tsukiji Outer Market, where I introduced them to "Sushizanmai," the restaurant known for winning the bid on the "500-million-yen tuna" that they had reportedly seen on the news that morning. They were soon sampling food at the outdoor stalls. The large strawberries sold within the market seemed to be a novelty for the younger members of the group, who repeatedly exclaimed how delicious they were. At Meiji Shrine afterward, the group became very interested in Shinto, and everyone offered a proper prayer together. They also purchased many omikuji fortune slips and were delighted by the experience. On Takeshita Street, the group thoroughly enjoyed a capybara cafe and crepes, and at our final stop in Shinjuku they were thrilled to find the Godzilla Head. The tour was mainly oriented toward the younger members of the group, but everyone seemed to fully enjoy their first day in Tokyo.

    Hello and welcome to Tokyo!

    I have been working for business with American companies for many years. I have many experiences guiding customers from around the world in Japan and taking Japanese customers to the USA and Europe.

    I now have a national license as a guiding interpreter, and I want to introduce the unique gigantic city of Tokyo and the traditional Japanese culture, which is not shown in the guidebooks, to people worldwide who are interested in it. In addition, I want to introduce various Japanese foods you can enjoy only in Japan.
    Unique experiences such as the Sumo Training Viewing and Tea Ceremony are optionally available.
    Depending on your preference and itinerary, I can guide you in Tokyo, Kamakura, and Hakone so that you can enjoy your time in Japan.

    Aug 18, 2026
    Heather_C
    Private tour for 4 in Tokyo – highly recommend
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide…

    Aug 8, 2026
    victoriahD2588SK
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    An action packed visit to Hakone!
    Atsushi was an…

    Jul 26, 2026
    Kevin_B
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Highly recommend this tour for first time…

    Jun 22, 2026
    Ashish_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best Tour for a Short Visit
    Atsushi-san was an incredibly well-researched and…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up Hotel The Celestine Ginza
    • 2. 10:20 Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 3. 12:00 Asakusa (Nakamise Street, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine)
    • 4. 14:00 Shibuya (Shibuya Sky, Scramble Crossing)
    • 5. 15:10 Harajuku (Meiji Jingu, Takeshita Street)
    • 6. 16:10 Dismissal Harajuku

    What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shibuya and Beyond The guests were visitors from Europe and the Middle East, one of whom had visited Japan several times before, while the other was visiting for the first time. They planned to stay in Japan and, in addition to Tokyo, spend some nights in Kyoto. They had shared their preferred destinations in advance, so on the day I guided them accordingly. Both of them had a good deal of knowledge about Japanese culture and history, and they seemed to understand my explanations very well. It was unfortunate that, after we finished the Shibuya portion of the itinerary, one of the guests felt unwell and returned to the hotel, but the weather was fine, and I believe they were able to fully enjoy the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShimbashi~Asakusa220JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa~Shibuya260JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Total660JPY

    Hi, I am Nobu, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English).
    I have been an English guide in Tokyo area since January 2017.
    Tokyo is a wonderful city, and you may enjoy this city by yourselves.
    Even so, I recommend you go around with a guide, especially if it is your first time visit to Tokyo.
    A good guide will help you to understand about Tokyo and Japan as well as how to use convenient but complicated public transportations more effectively.
    I am glad if I can help you to make your tour more enjoyable.
    I am looking forward to meeting you in Tokyo soon!
    Nobu

    Jun 2, 2026
    amandavW9846AW
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Tokyo day trip!
    We had a wonderfull day with Nobu! He…

    May 25, 2026
    Matthew_C
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nobu was an excellent and…
    Nobu was an excellent and informative guide…

    May 24, 2026
    Diane D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Pleasant Intro to Tokyo
    Nobu was an experienced and informative guide.…

    Apr 28, 2026
    GrandTour57165664797
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Awesome!
    It was our first visit to Japan. Nobu was very knowledgeable…

  • Kyoto in One Day: To-ji Temple & Kyoto Imperial Palace

    Kyoto in One Day: To-ji Temple & Kyoto Imperial Palace

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Meet at Hotel
    • 09:00 to 09:50 To-ji Temple
    • 10:40 to 11:30 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 12:15 to 13:00 Ginkaku-ji Temple
    • 13:20 to 14:10 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 14:30 Disband at Nishiki Market

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Toji Temple and Nishiki Market Today's guests were the group visiting Kyoto from North America. They came to Japan for a trip, and being fans of Japan, they very much wanted to visit Kyoto as the heart of Japanese culture. Having arrived in Kyoto the previous evening, this was the first day of their Kyoto tour, and they chose the spots mentioned above. We were fortunate that the interior of the five-story pagoda at Toji Temple was open for a special viewing, which delighted them greatly. Finally, in accordance with their wishes, we parted at the entrance to Nishiki Market.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~To-ji Temple180JPY
    Section 2BusToji Higashimon-mae/Kyoto City Bus~Shijo Horikawa/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3BusShijo Horikawa/Kyoto City Bus~Kinkaku-ji-michi/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4BusKinkaku-ji-michi/Kyoto City Bus~Ginkaku-ji-michi/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 5BusGinkaku-ji-michi/Kyoto City Bus~Karasuma Imadegawa (Imadegawa Subway Station)/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 6SubwayImadegawa~Shijo (Kyoto City)260JPY
    Total1,360JPY

    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
    Haru is a Rock Star
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a fantastic guide. He explained…

    Dec 29, 2024
    Ali O
    Amazing!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    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…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Kyoto Station Central Exit 10:25 Fushimi Inari 11:50 Sanjusangendo 13:00 Yasaka Pagoda 13:30 Lunch 14:10 Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka, Ishibei-koji, Yasaka Shrine
    • 15:15 Gion 16:00 Tour ends

    What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Sanjusangendo and More The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. They were a very close-knit group. Throughout the tour, they kindly said "I will follow you." many times, which I greatly appreciated. Both of them asked many questions. At each destination, there were no school excursion groups, so it was relatively easy to move around. Sanjusangendo has recently attracted many tourists, both Japanese and international. Although it is a small temple, the more than 1,000 statues of Kannon are magnificent and spectacular, and since I had long wished that more people would come to see them, I felt somewhat glad. At the end of the tour, they purchased sleeping medication at a pharmacy. Both of them seemed to be struggling quite a bit with jet lag. The photo was taken in the garden of Sanjusangendo.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainInari~Tofukuji150JPY
    Section 3BusTofukuji / Kyoto City Bus~Higashiyama Shichijo / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4OtherHigashiyama Shichijo~Kiyomizu-michi230JPY
    Total760JPY

    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.

    Sep 28, 2026
    Miguel_E
    Amazing Service
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful time with Kazuo.…

    Sep 27, 2026
    T
    TrailBlazer47194
    Kazuo Sumi is a great guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide Kazuo Sumi…

    Sep 1, 2026
    Steve6172014
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 7, 2026
    Pascale_Q
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Very good private tour of Kyoto with Kazuo
    We had…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at hotel
    • 10:40 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 12:00 Snack break
    • 12:45 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 14:00 Tour ends at Kiyomizuzaka

    What Is a Private Kyoto Tour of Fushimi Inari and Kiyomizu-dera Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The tour was scheduled to start at 9:30, but we met at the Hotel at 10:00. At the request of the group, who found it difficult to walk long distances, we traveled by taxi. The weather was fine, and the guests admired the beautiful vermilion color of Fushimi Inari Taisha. Wishing to find items available only in Japan and something special, they purchased many ema (votive plaques). I had the guests look for fox figures around the shrine. At Kiyomizu-dera, they were amazed by the wooden stage. After shopping along the approach, we parted ways.

    Hello, my name is Mizuho Yoshikawa. Please call me Mizu and my name means rice and water in Japanese.
    I’ve been a tour guide more than 200 times since the spring of 2023 in Kobe, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Wakayama and Kochi. My tour is always original and new, depending on the guest’s preferences, encounters, seasons and weather.
    In Kyoto, one of my tours is to climb Mt. Kurama. It is about 1 hour from the city of Kyoto by train, it is a very quiet and beautiful mountain.
    In Osaka, which is called the kitchen of Japan, I am also in charge of food tour.
    In Nara, in addition to the Great Budda Hall, I guide guests to the temple with a really great view and Japanese wine, sake tasting.
    Every city has a unique charming point.
    The motto of my guiding is ” Ichigo Ichie” Once in a lifetime or seize the day. I learn this concept that the moment will never be the same again through tea ceremonies.
    I like a tea ceremony that is part of the traditional Japanese culture and embodies the spirit of “omotenashi” or hospitality. Through the tea ceremony, we can feel the spirit of “omotenashi” that has been passed down to us from ancient times.
    And I like to travel abroad and domestically, and I have been to 13 overseas countries and most of the prefectures in Japan. Traveling always gives me a new perspective, which is exciting and thrilling. Nowadays, we can learn a lot from the Internet, but traveling teaches us that it is important to have direct experience. When I travel, I feel that my five senses are infinitely expanded, and through my tour, I help all guests to have the same feeling in Japan.
    I was born and raised in Kanagawa Prefecture, which is next to Tokyo Prefecture in eastern Japan. When I was little, I could see Mount Fuji from my backyard. There was also a rice field nearby, and I grew up listening to the croaking of frogs. Listening to the frogs and seeing the mountains made me feel very calm.
    I moved to the city of Kobe, one of the Kansai areas in western Japan, which includes Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and so on. I’m not from the Kansai area of western Japan, but I think that makes me sensitive to the differences between that area and the Kanto area, Tokyo, where I grew up.
    Speaking of Kobe, you might be thinking of Kobe beef. Of course you do. There are also other sake breweries in Nada in Kobe. You can also go from Kobe city to Himeji Castle, also known as the White Egret Castle, which was the first in Japan to be listed as a World Heritage Site in 1993.
    Let’s meet and enjoy Japan together!

    Sep 13, 2026
    946jakobr
    Mizu, as your guide in Koyoto, is the perfect guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed…

    Sep 5, 2026
    Sightsee18435593786
    De moeite waard👍
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Mizu heeft een mooie rondleiding geheven er werd…

    Jul 27, 2026
    OscarBrisenoJr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Awesome tour of Kyoto
    Seeing the temples and shrines…

    Jul 21, 2026
    MarcL3556
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful and Memorable Tour of Osaka with Mizu…

  • Sapporo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Sapporo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel (Hotel) → Subway Susukino Station → Transfer at Odori Station → Get off at Maruyama Koen Station → Board JR Bus → Get off at Hokkaido Jingu Mae →
    • Worship at Hokkaido Jingu → Stop by the dango tea house at the exit → Stroll through the shrine forest → Arrive at Subway Maruyama Koen Station → Board the Tozai Line → Get off at Miyanosawa Station → Walk → Enter Shiroi Koibito Park Ishiya Seika → View the chocolate antique box exhibit → Tour the production line (main products) → Walk → Board at Subway Miyanosawa Station → Get off at Odori Station → Walk → Stroll through the front garden of the former Hokkaido Government Office (Red Brick) → Walk → Arrive at Sapporo Clock Tower (exterior / photo taking) → Disband at Kita 1-jo Street

    Title: What Is a Private Winter Day Tour of Sapporo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The start time was originally set for 10:00, but since ending at 16:00 would be close to sunset, I contacted the guests and moved the schedule one hour earlier. The weather was cloudy, with a temperature of 3–4°C. The guests were a group visiting from North America. They were very cheerful and friendly. They mentioned that in their home region there are only rainy and dry seasons with virtually no snowfall, and while some snow can be seen in the higher mountainous areas, they had never touched it before. Some of the guests enjoyed making and throwing snowballs and lying down in the fresh snow (about 20 cm deep). I had planned to guide them to the Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium, but this was not possible because the buses were not running during the New Year holidays. They were captivated by the red brick former Hokkaido Government Office building, the snow-covered front garden, the size of the trees, and the "yukitsuri" rope supports on the pine trees. When introducing the former Government Office and the Clock Tower, I explained the past and present of Ainu life, their relationship with the settlers and pioneers, and the presence of the foreign advisors employed at the time.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwaySusukino~Hokkaido Jingu / JR Hokkaido Bus490JPY
    Section 2SubwayMaruyama Koen~Miyanosawa250JPY
    Section 3SubwayMiyanosawa~Odori290JPY
    Total1,030JPY

    Select a guide: enter the WordPress Guide post ID or Guide ID in the block settings.

    Feb 7, 2025
    Stay38335184325
    A very frosty day in a very interesting little seaside town
    Tripadvisor review: Otaru 6hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our…

    Dec 27, 2024
    G
    G5102BEannied
    Sapporo, Hokaido Winter Escapade
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We had an experienced tour guide…

    Oct 30, 2024
    Clarice W
    A Day of Joy at Otaru Canal, Half-day Walking Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Otaru 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Katsuko-san…

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Moto-Hakone Port

    Kanagawa in One Day: Moto-Hakone Port

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet the guests at Hakone-Yumoto Station (guests arrive from Shinjuku on the Romancecar arriving at 9:22)
    • 9:50 Bus (Hakone-Yumoto → Moto-Hakone Port)
    • 10:00 Depart Moto-Hakone Port (to Hakone Shrine)
    • 10:30 Arrive at Hakone Shrine (and stroll around the shrine)
    • 10:50 Depart Hakone Shrine (to the old Tokaido road)
    • 11:10 Arrive at the old road (stroll along the road)
    • 11:30 Lunch (at a nearby bakery shop)
    • 12:20 End of lunch
    • 12:30 Participate in a marquetry (yosegi zaiku) hands-on course (at Maruyama Bussan)
    • 13:40 End of the course (walk to Moto-Hakone Port)
    • 13:50 Board the pirate ship (at Moto-Hakone Port)
    • 14:20 Disembark the pirate ship (at Togendai)
    • 15:20 Board the ropeway (at Togendai)
    • 15:40 Get off the ropeway (at Owakudani)
    • 15:50 Board the ropeway (at Owakudani)
    • 16:00 Get off the ropeway (at Sounzan)
    • 16:05 Board the cable car (at Sounzan)
    • 16:15 Get off the cable car (at Gora)
    • 16:23 Board the Hakone Tozan Railway (at Gora)
    • 17:07 Get off the Hakone Tozan Railway (at Hakone-Yumoto)

    What Is a Private One-Day Hakone Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report ① The guests had requested many places they wished to visit, so it was challenging to plan an efficient route. In addition to the course we actually covered above, there was also a request to visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, but since that was simply not feasible, I clearly explained this when I met the guests in the morning. (However, even during the tour, they repeatedly expressed their wish to visit that museum.) ② Since the guests had made an advance reservation for a marquetry (yosegi-zaiku) hands-on workshop at 13:00, I worked backward from that time to plan the route. On the other hand, if the workshop started at 13:00, they would not be able to catch the 13:50 pirate ship (I had confirmed in advance that the workshop takes about one hour), so I negotiated with the local operator to have the workshop start at 12:30. (Since the next pirate ship departed at 15:00, which would have made our return to Hakone-Yumoto even later, I paced the tour to hurry along as appropriate.) ③ I experienced firsthand what people call "overtourism." The area was packed with foreign tourists during the year-end and New Year holidays, and the ropeway from Togendai had a line of nearly 30 minutes, during which I had a hard time keeping the guests reassured. ④ [Request] Having guided Hakone twice before, I feel that six hours is not enough to cover Hakone thoroughly. Therefore, I think it might be worth considering setting the working hours for Hakone at eight hours and increasing the guide fee accordingly to an amount such as 25,000 yen. Alternatively, is it acceptable to coldly tell guests midway through the itinerary, "Our time is up here," and part ways? As a guide with limited experience, I considered that unreasonable, so I stayed with the guests until they changed their Romancecar tickets at Hakone-Yumoto Station.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassHakone-Yumoto~Hakone-Yumoto6,000JPY
    Total6,000JPY

    Hi my name is A-sushi. Welcome to Japan!
    I’ve been working in the telecom, and international cooperation fields for more than 35 years in Japan and overseas including 3 Southeast Asian countries and Morocco. I became a licensed tour guide last year after returning back from Morocco.
    Japan is full of yummy food and interesting culture, about which I’d like to show you around. I am looking forward to seeing you soon!

    Bonjour, je m’appelle A-sushi. Bienvenue au Japon !
    J’ai travaillé dans le domaine des télécommunications et de la coopération internationale pendant plus de 35 ans, au Japon et à l’étranger, notamment dans trois pays d’Asie du Sud-Est et au Maroc. Je suis devenu guide touristique agréé l’année dernière après mon retour du Maroc.
    Le Japon regorge de plats délicieux et de cultures intéressantes, que j’aimerais vous faire découvrir. J’ai hâte de vous voir bientôt !

  • Tokyo in One Day: Start Yanaka Seven Lucky Gods & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Start Yanaka Seven Lucky Gods & Asakusa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hotel
    • 10:50 Start Yanaka Seven Lucky Gods tour
    • 11:20 Kaisei High School
    • 12:00 Yanaka Ginza
    • 13:00 Hanazono Inari Shrine
    • 13:15 End Yanaka Seven Lucky Gods tour
    • 13:30 Lunch at Yoshi Sushi
    • 14:10 Ameyoko insect food vending machine
    • 14:40 Akihabara (Hareruya, Fukufuku Trading Cards, at home cafe)
    • 15:30 Asakusa
    • 16:15 Disband

    What Is a Private New Year Yanaka Seven Lucky Gods Walking Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided the group on a New Year visit. During our email exchanges, since they were visiting during the New Year season, I suggested the "Yanaka Seven Lucky Gods Pilgrimage," and they were very keen. Although I had done it many times myself, it was my first time taking guests, and they enjoyed it more than I expected, so I was glad I suggested it. Like a stamp rally, it became more fun as the stamps accumulated, and they were moved when a temple staff member said "Congratulations" as they received a stamp, and it was heartwarming to see them offer the same greeting themselves. Thinking it would be a shame if the precious sheet got creased on the way home, I had purchased a cylindrical certificate case in advance at a 100-yen shop, and when I handed it over, they were delighted, saying, "When we get home, we'll frame it and display it." Since their work is related to film, I made sure they remembered the last deity, Benzaiten. Along the way, since Kaisei High School was on our route, I introduced it, and they said, "It's a wonderful building, like a university," and asked, "By the way, what are the tuition fees?" When I answered "About one million yen per year," they said, "That's cheap. A top high school in North America costs 100,000 dollars a year." A moment later I thought I must have misheard, but it really was equivalent to about fifteen million yen, which surprised me. After that, at their request, we walked around Yanaka Ginza and Ueno Park. For lunch, they had requested a sushi restaurant in Ameyoko, so I took them to a sushi place. They love both sea urchin and raw shrimp, and while eating we chatted happily about how each of us had met our respective partners (the guests through a dating app popular in Japan too, and myself on a graduation trip). Afterwards, when I suggested dessert and we arrived at an insect-food vending machine, they said "Interesting," took photos, and carefully checked what each item was. Since I had realized along the way that they were interested in Pokémon, in Akihabara they looked at Pokémon cards and bought the cheapest set as a souvenir for a relative. The maid café felt a little iffy to them, but they seemed to accept it, saying, "It's kind of like Hooters." Finally, we visited Asakusa and finished. This time too I nearly forgot to take photos, but I managed by having the guests take one, so it was just safe. They were very friendly, easy to talk to, and approachable, so we were able to spend a very enjoyable day together. As this was my first guiding of 2026, I feel relieved in a way that it bodes well for the year. I look forward to working with everyone at [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) throughout this year.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainEbisu~Tabata210JPY
    Section 2TrainUeno~Akihabara150JPY
    Section 3TrainAkihabara~Ueno150JPY
    Section 4SubwayUeno~Asakusa180JPY
    Total690JPY

    Nice to meet you. I am delighted to introduce myself. My nickname is Danda. I live in Saitama prefecture next to Tokyo, but I was brought up in Kanazawa, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. My favorite things are bonsai and hiking. Also, I have been a big fun of history and sumo since my childhood. As for the guide, I have enjoyed making communication with foreign visitors since 2019. I have taken more than 30 private groups to not only major scenic spots but also their favorite places such as tea ceremony, maid cafe, sumo tournament, bonsai village, fire ritual and so on. I can arrange the original tour based on your requests and curiosity. It will be only for you. I look forward to meeting you soon. Thank you.

    Apr 21, 2026
    Sabrina_F
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Balade riche en découvertes
    Nous avons passé un super moment avec Danda.…

    Apr 14, 2026
    davidjonesresponseen
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking tour with Danda in Tokyo
    Excellent walking tour, we followed our…

    Apr 10, 2026
    Anna_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour with great guide
    Excellent tour with a very good guide…

    Mar 25, 2026
    Nahmjee_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour guide and experience.
    Danda was great with my family. He…

  • Nara in One Day: Kintetsu-Nara Station & Nara-machi

    Nara in One Day: Kintetsu-Nara Station & Nara-machi

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Kintetsu-Nara Station (Start of Tour)
    • (bus 250y)
    • 11:10-40 Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Deer Park:
    • We enjoy feeding and communicating with deer.
    • We will be in the park almost to the end of tour (walk 10 minutes)
    • 12:00-30 Kasuga-taisha Shrine (UNESCO World Heritage) entrance 700 yen
    • (walk 10 minutes)
    • lunch at Mizuya Chaya (Udon noodles: Japanese traditional fast food)
    • 12:50-13:00 at the foot of Wakakusayama Hill:
    • (They no more produce katana but make awesome knives.) (walk 10 min)
    • 13:40- Todaiji Temple (UNESCO World Heritage)
    • 13:40-14:10 Todaiji's Nigatsudo Hall (walk 5 minutes)
    • 14:20-30 Todaiji's Shoro Bell Tower (walk 10 minutes)
    • 14:40-15:10 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall:
    • World's largest bronze statue from 8th century entrance 800 yen
    •    (walk 5 minutes)
    • 15:20-30 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate):
    • World's largest wooden statues walk 15 minutes
    • 15:50- Nara-machi (Old Quarters of the town):
    • Sake tasting, traditional merchant's house etc.
    • 17:15 (End of Tour) back close to Kintetsu-Nara Station

    Title: What Is a Private Nara Tour Like with a Licensed Guide? A Guide's Report Near the beginning of the tour I lost my smartphone, but when I contacted the police after the tour ended, it had been properly turned in. I will go to pick it up first thing in the morning. Because I did not have my phone, I was unable to take photos of the guests, but the guests kindly sent me several of the pictures taken on their own phone. Along with the photos, I even received a message like this via a messaging app: Thank you for showing us around! We also had a really good time, easily the best tour we have had in Japan 😁 On a related note, I have the impression that [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) has had fewer Nara tours than last year, which is very unfortunate. I would greatly appreciate efforts to help increase the number of guests for the Nara Tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKintetsu-Nara~Todaiji Daibutsuden・Kasuga-taisha Mae/Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Total250JPY

    Hello! Thank you for choosing Nara! I bet you’ll love Nara. I specialize in Nara because Nara is the unique place where in one day you can cover the history and religions of Japan from the ancient times to the post war era while enjoying rambling in the UNESCO World Heritage park, having communication with lovely deer, surrounded with the beautiful nature.
    I grew up in Nara, went university in Kyoto, enjoyed teaching at high schools and a university in Osaka. The three former capitals of Japan are home to me.
    After retiring from teaching I began guiding so that I can meet various people from various corners of the world with a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Each time I guide, I find it hugely rewarding because I learn a lot from my guests sharing the history, culture and all that I know about Nara, Kyoto and Osaka.
    I used to be a marathon runner, mountain climber and skier though I am not much of them anymore.
    What I especially recommend is to stay in Nara a couple of days and enjoy communicating with friendly deer while visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nara in early morning, temples and shrines at night are well worth experiencing.

    May 16, 2026
    I3520JTcristinat
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nara with family
    Excellent tour with Junichi!!! Perfect English speaking guide and…

    May 3, 2026
    Maria_J
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyable day in Nara
    We spent 6 hours in Nara with Junichi…

    Apr 11, 2026
    64sandig
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Osaka DEP. with Licensed Guide
    ????? Absolutely Outstanding ? Junichi Made Our Nara Day…

    Mar 30, 2026
    dpadillachavez
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
    Great day at Nara!
    Best tour on Nara, Junichi…