Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo: Toyosu Market & Tsukiji Outer Market

    Tokyo: Toyosu Market & Tsukiji Outer Market

    Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 5:00 Meet @ Hotel
    • 5:15 @ Toyosu Market
    • 7:30 @ Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 8:00 Dismissal @ Tsukiji, Yonemoto Coffee Main Store

    What Is a Private Toyosu Market and Tsukiji Tour Like in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from Oceania around Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market. Some of the guests loved sushi and sashimi, so I was a little unsure how to show them the fish market, but everyone was delighted to see the tuna auction. While some of the guests took a short break at a cafe on the dining floor of the intermediate wholesalers' market, I recommended a sushi restaurant to the others, and after a seafood rice bowl they added extra orders of fatty tuna, sea urchin, and cod milt, which they thoroughly enjoyed.

    Click here for more details: Toyosu Tuna Auction & Tsukiji Local Food Tour, Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Seky

    Hi friends, I’m Seky, a tour guide in Tokyo, but I cover all over Japan, namely from Hokkaido to Kyushu. I have lived overseas for more than 15 years in total, such as US, UK, Singapore and others, and enjoyed local culture there. Back in Japan, I wish I could help travelers to Japan enjoy Japanese culture, and this is why I became a tour guide.
    In Tokyo, my favorite places are Shibuya, Harajuku, Asakusa, and if you are interested in fish market, I’d love to take you to the world largest Tuna auction and/or if you are sports lovers, I’ll go to ball games (baseball) too.

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    May 8, 2025
    J
    jeanne_c
    Sell was very…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sell was very knowledgeable and willing to talk…

    Mar 2, 2025
    Joe_F
    Excellent Custom Tokyo Tour
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour, customized to my interests, Edo period…

    Mar 1, 2025
    R2911ISjoef
    Excellent Custom Tours, Great Guides, Reasonable Prices.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a friendly…

    Oct 27, 2024
    Jennifer_G
    Great day touring Tokyo !
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Government Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 7 persons)
    We had…

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Odawara Station Meet 11:30 Odawara Station by train to Hakone-Yumoto 12:12 by train to Kowakudani Station then by bus to Hakonemachi Port 13:50 Lunch at Hotoriya 14:30 by bus from Hakonemachi Port to Moto-Hakone Hakone Shrine 15:35 from Moto-Hakone to Hakone-Yumoto arrive 14:20 16:40 by train arrive Odawara 16:55
    • Accompany to the Shinkansen ticket gate and part ways at 17:05 (Customers will go via Shinagawa to Shinjuku on the 17:15 Kodama)

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Hakone Like from Odawara? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a very cheerful and lively group visiting Japan for the first time. Although it was a short stay, they chose Hakone, which I greatly appreciated. They liked trains, so they rode the red mountain railway from Hakone-Yumoto and experienced the switchbacks. They were impressed by how clean Japan is, with no litter, and by how comfortable and hygienic the restrooms are. At a lakeside restaurant, the guests enjoyed grilled dango together. At Hakone Shrine, I explained in advance the connection between shrines, temples, and daily life in Japan, and they visited the red torii gate and the shrine itself, saying it was a good learning experience. As it was a 6-hour course starting from Odawara Station, the actual sightseeing time was limited, but they enjoyed it. Regarding transportation costs, a receipt is required for amounts over 1,000 yen. The fare between Moto-Hakone and Hakone-Yumoto is 1,210 yen, but this was on a regular public bus with no receipt. Therefore, instead of Moto-Hakone to Hakone-Yumoto 1,210 + Hakone-Yumoto 360 = 1,570, I calculated and reported Moto-Hakone to Ohiradai 940 + Ohiradai to Odawara 510 = 1,450, which is 120 yen less.

    Click here for more details: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOdawara～Kowakudani710JPY
    Section 2BusKowakudani Station / Hakone Tozan Bus～Hakonemachi Port / Hakone Tozan Bus820JPY
    Section 3BusHakonemachi Port / Hakone Tozan Bus～Moto-Hakone Port / Hakone Tozan Bus220JPY
    Section 4BusMoto-Hakone Port / Hakone Tozan Bus～Ohiradai / Hakone Tozan Bus940JPY
    Section 5TrainOhiradai～Odawara510JPY
    Total3,200JPY

    Tour Report by Hiro

    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

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    Aug 24, 2026
    Deb_K
    Viator review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Well organised tour
    Hiro is obviously an experienced guide.…

    Aug 6, 2026
    Marcus_J
    Viator review: Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing day with…
    Had an amazing day with Hiro.…

    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…

  • Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Ryoan-ji

    Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Ryoan-ji

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Meet (@Hyatt Regency)
    • 9:00-9:20 Travel (chartered car; Hotel → Fushimi Inari Taisha)
    • 9:20-10:10 Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 10:10-10:40 Travel (chartered car; Fushimi Inari Taisha → Nijo Castle)
    • 10:40-11:30 Visit Nijo Castle (garden only)
    • 11:30-11:50 Travel (chartered car; Nijo Castle → Kinkaku-ji)
    • 11:50-12:40 Visit Kinkaku-ji
    • 12:40-13:00 Travel (Kinkaku-ji → Ryoan-ji)
    • 13:00-13:50 Visit Ryoan-ji
    • 13:50-14:30 Travel (chartered car; Ryoan-ji → Restaurant Zen / foot of the Philosopher's Path)
    • 14:30-15:00 Lunch (@Zen)
    • 15:00 Tour ends. After the tour, took the customer by taxi to Pontocho as they requested, then parted ways.

    What Can You See on a Private Day Tour of Kyoto? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. It was their first time in Kyoto, and they had come to Japan to celebrate a graduation. I took them to Fushimi Inari Taisha, Nijo Castle (garden only), Kinkaku-ji, and Ryoan-ji. The morning was very cold, but since we traveled by car, I believe it was a comfortable tour. Of all the places we visited today, both of them said Kinkaku-ji left the strongest impression (even though it was very crowded despite being the end of the year). At the end of the tour, I also took them to an okonomiyaki restaurant for lunch, and since it was their first time trying okonomiyaki, they enjoyed it very much. After the meal, I took them to Pontocho and we said our goodbyes.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Michi

    My name is (Mr.)Michiharu Aioi and I worked at Electronic Manufacturing Company (Panasonic) for more than 40 years in charge of overseas sales.
    I learned a lot in these 40 years and now I would like to contribute to the promotion of mutual understanding with foreign countries being involved in tourism busines utilizing my long experience in my previous company. I will do my best to make each trip very fruitful for each foreign visitor.
    As for my language ability, in addition to English, I can speak Spanish which I used in my job and I can communicate with Chinese people with intermediate level. Finally It is my great pleasure if my activity could work in the mutual understang with foreign visitors. Thanks a Lot !

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    Aug 4, 2026
    Elie_S
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Wonderful and informative walking tour with Michi
    We had a lovely…

    Jul 19, 2026
    Wander35832177180
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Kyoto temple tour
    Our Kyoto guided tour (Aioi Michiharu) was a…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Abby_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour. Highly recommend
    Michi our guide was excellent!…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Javier P
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto gems
    Michi was incredibly courteous and informative.…

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Owakudani & Hakone Open-Air Museum

    Kanagawa in One Day: Owakudani & Hakone Open-Air Museum

    Hakone in 1 Day by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Hotel meet-up
    • 10:00 Owakudani (Ropeway)
    • 12:00 Pirate Ship
    • 12:45 Lunch @ Fukazawa Soba
    • 13:30 Hakone Shrine
    • 14:15 Hakone Open-Air Museum
    • 15:30 Return to hotel

    What Is a Private Hakone Day Tour with a Licensed Guide Like? A Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. Although we narrowly missed the pirate ship, we had a vehicle with us, so everything went smoothly afterward, and I was glad we were able to complete the entire itinerary. Since the guests were collecting goshuin (temple and shrine seals), they received stamps and goshuin at each location and were delighted. At the soba restaurant, they requested a tatami room and enjoyed sake and soba. It was a cold day with occasional snow flurries, but as they were from North America, they seemed accustomed to the cold.

    Click here for more details: Hakone in 1 Day by Private Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Yuki

    Hello, I’m Yukie Tachibana, national licensed tour guide living in Yokohama with my family. Please call me Yuki. I have been working as a tour guide for 5years mainly around Tokyo, Kanagawa, for example, Hakone, Kamakura, Yokohama and Kawasaki. I have had an experience of attending a lot of foreign visitors from all over the world in both private and group tours for sightseeing and business in one to multi-days. I’m able to arrange the tour for you, so please feel free to ask me your favorite plan in Japan as to spot, food and some activities. I like to see Buddhist statues in temples so I’d like to introduce our history and culture. Also because I like Japanese animation and character, and animals, I can take you to some shops for the animation and animal cafes that are so popular among tourists. Looking forward to seeing you soon and share wonderful time in Japan! Thank you.

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    May 1, 2026
    444CraigH
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Tokyo in a day from Yokohama
    We had a great…

    Apr 16, 2026
    Adele P
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely Yokohama!
    We had a lovely day in Yokohama with Yukie…

    Oct 17, 2025
    LeslieS1560
    Intro to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yuki was awesome. She reached out right after we…

    Jun 27, 2025
    L
    L3151LVdavidl
    Amazing Kamakura Tour with Yukie
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing tour with…

  • Kyoto: Toei Kyoto Studio Park & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kyoto: Toei Kyoto Studio Park & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:50 Hotel
    • 10:20.-12:30 Toei Kyoto Studio Park
    • 13:00-14:00 Samurai Ninja Museum with experience.
    • 14:30-15:45. Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 16:00 Hyatt regency Hotel

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Toei Kyoto Studio Park, Ninja Experiences, and Kiyomizu-dera We started a little early to make it in time for the 10:30 samurai sword show at Toei Kyoto Studio Park. During the show, one of the guests was invited to take part and was very delighted. Unfortunately, we were told that this show would end at the close of this year. We then had an early lunch, enjoying dishes such as ninja curry, and watched the ninja show that began at 11:30. I could not translate everything, so I conveyed only the main points. Since a hands-on experience had been booked at the Samurai Ninja Museum starting at 1:00 pm, I took the guests there, but we were told it was the wrong location and I was a little flustered. There was a ninja experience venue at the intersection of Nishiki Market and Teramachi Street, and we were able to join just in time. Because the samurai experience was scheduled for 2:45 on Rokkaku Street, we would have had to return there, and I explained that doing that experience would mean we could not visit Kiyomizu-dera. In the end, since the guests wanted to learn about history, we decided to go to Kiyomizu-dera, walked down Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, and returned to the Hotel. In the case of samurai and ninja experiences, it is important to pay attention to the venue where they take place. The guests were generous and kindly accepted the mistake as no problem, which was a relief.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Harumi

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

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    Sep 29, 2026
    H1282JBkarinas
    Customizable tour with Harumi-san
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing tour with Harumi…

    Sep 28, 2026
    Coastal07335209891
    Kobe Delight with Harumi
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our tour was definitely customized and our…

    Sep 27, 2026
    kakeelma
    Learning is fun with Harumi san!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    My husband and I…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Cosmopolitan580857
    We had a great time! Kyoto is a beautiful city.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide…

  • Hokkaido in Half a Day: Nijo Market & Sapporo Station

    Hokkaido in Half a Day: Nijo Market & Sapporo Station

    Sapporo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Former Hokkaido Government Office, Clock Tower, Odori Park, TV Tower
    • 13:00 Nijo Market
    • 14:30 Hokkaido Shrine
    • 15:30 Sapporo Station

    What Is a Private Winter Walking Tour of Sapporo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America. They had been to Japan several times before, but this was their first visit to Hokkaido. They had arrived in Sapporo late the previous night, and although the roads were icy and it was a very cold day, they walked energetically throughout the tour. They found Sapporo pleasantly quiet compared to Osaka, which they had visited previously, and they seemed interested in Hokkaido's relatively new history. They wanted to visit Hokkaido Shrine, so we walked through the snow while I explained the differences between shrines and temples and the proper way to worship. They happily purchased several protective charms. On the way back, they planned to do some shopping at Sapporo Station on the subway line. I explained how to buy tickets and how to board the train to Otaru, where they planned to go the following day, and we parted at the station.

    Click here for more details: Sapporo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwaySapporo～Odori210JPY
    Section 2SubwaySusukino～Maruyama Park250JPY
    Section 3SubwayMaruyama Park～Sapporo250JPY
    Total710JPY

    Tour Report by Hiroko

    Hello I’m Hiroko.
    I started tour guide in 2017. I work not only in Hokkaido but also in Honshu area.
    Last year
    Freelance tour guide-operates over 120 days of operation.
    8 times of long -term escort tour in Hokkaido. 4 times of 8-10days in Honshu.
    12 times of Cruise guests’ one day excursions in Hokkaido and Tohoku. I love my job.
    Until then I’ve worked as a short-term study abroad coordinator of an English language School in Japan and Canada.
    I was born and brought up in Sapporo, I’m good at skiing.
    I majored Japanese history at college in Tokyo. I like Calligraphy.
    Let’s enjoy the tour together!

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    Aug 11, 2024
    M
    Miller A
    Good intro to Sapporo
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo Half-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our guide was very knowledgeable…

    May 24, 2024
    Brian_K
    Sapporo with guide
    Viator review: Sapporo Full-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Views from Sapporo TV Tower and visiting and…

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①　08:30　Meet at Hotel MOGANA
    • ②　08:35　Itinerary explanation and about the history of Kyoto
    • ③　09:30　Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • ④　10:45　Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • ⑤　11:30　Tenryu-ji Temple and Garden
    • ⑥　12:30　Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • ⑦　13:30　Disband at JR Nijo Station

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America, and this was their first time in both Japan and Kyoto. They traveled from Tokyo to Hida-Takayama, stopped at a small island in the Seto Inland Sea, and then came to Kyoto. They planned to spend a night in my home city of Osaka before returning to Tokyo and heading home to North America. Having attended school where all lessons were taught in English from an early age, they spoke very clear English. Since they had apparently explored Tokyo and Hida-Takayama on their own, they still knew relatively little about Japanese history, culture, and customs, and everything I explained seemed to be new to them, so I ended up talking quite a lot. At Kinkaku-ji, I explained the Gozan no Okuribi bonfire and the Obon tradition, and since there is a very similar custom of welcoming ancestors once a year in their home region, the conversation became lively as we agreed how alike they were. Talks about how living habits, dialects, and even temperaments differ from region to region always spark good conversation, and today too we enjoyed discovering that the same is true in their home region. The guests had a refined and easygoing manner, listened attentively, and asked questions at just the right moments, and I too spent a truly enjoyable time. The other day I had the pleasure of attending the Japan Guide Awards. I was able to greet President Fujiwara and the staff of [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), and although it was only a short time, I was able to deepen my connections with guides from my own region as well as from the Kanto area, making it a very meaningful day. Thank you very much. Perhaps in part because assignments have become fewer since December, no matter how hard I try, I have been completely unable to secure any assignments from December through February other than those over the year-end and New Year period. The moment an assignment email arrives at 7:00 or 15:00, no matter how quickly I open it, it already shows as "being assigned." Has the number of guides during these time slots increased sharply? I wonder whether everyone else is receiving assignments fairly evenly and I alone am unable to, as it feels a little unusual compared to previous years. I am doing what I can within my means, including paying attention to my internet environment, but as things stand I am effectively at a loss.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Tour Report by Kazu

    Hello, this is Kazu Akiyama, your tour guide. Nice to meet you and welcome to Japan. Thank you for joining me on the tour. Now I am a retired salaried worker, living in Osaka. I have been very much interested in not only learning Japanese history, culture, religion myself, but also talking about them (sometimes going off topics) in English with tourists from all over the world as well. I am so excited being with you as your guide on coming day! I am very much looking forward to you enjoying with me visiting the must-see places and some of the hidden gems. See you soon. Thank you – Kazu Akiyama

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    Jul 29, 2026
    James_G
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great guide and very…
    Great guide and very knowledgeable.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    peterhR6472GA
    Kyoto highlights with Kazu.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with Kazu…

    Jul 12, 2026
    cgalvez73
    Fantastic tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our guide in Kyoto was Kazu.…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Winni_H
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Highly recommended when in Kyoto
    Our tour guide…

  • Toyama in One Day: Glass Museum & Toyama Castle Park

    Toyama in One Day: Glass Museum & Toyama Castle Park

    Toyama Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 AM: Meeting
    • o Meet at Hotel Toyama Ekimae.
    • o Walk to the "Toyama Ekimae" tram stop.
    • 09:15 AM – 10:30 AM: Glass Museum (KIRARI)
    • o Take the Tram (Loop Line) to the "Nishicho" stop.
    • o Explore the Toyama Glass Art Museum. The morning light in the atrium is beautiful for photos.
    • 10:30 AM – 11:15 AM: Ikedaya Yasubei Shoten
    • o Walk about 5–8 minutes from the museum to this historic medicine shop.
    • o Watch the traditional pill-making demonstration.
    • 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Toyama Castle Park
    • o Walk about 10 minutes toward the station to reach Toyama Castle Park.
    • o Walk through the grounds and see the castle keep and the moat.
    • Afternoon Segment
    • • 12:00 PM – 12:45 PM: Lunch at Marutakaya Ramen
    • o Walk or take a short tram ride back to Toyama Station.
    • o Lunch: Go to Marutakaya for Toyama Black Ramen.
    • • 1:15 PM – 2:45 PM: Iwase Historic District
    • o Catch the Portram (Light Rail) from the North side of Toyama Station.
    • o Explore: Walk the old merchant streets of Iwase.
    • o Note: Keep an eye on the clock; you will need to board the return tram by approximately 2:30 PM to be safe.
    • • 3:00 PM: Back at Toyama Station
    • o The Portram arrives directly back at the station.

    What's a Private Day Tour of Toyama City Like? A Licensed Guide's Report This was my final guiding assignment of the year, and I showed the guests around Toyama City. As a guide with [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), I found this to be a fitting and enjoyable way to close out the year. The guests were a group visiting from Oceania, and meeting up at the hotel went very smoothly. First, I helped them purchase a digital one-day tram pass, and then we headed to the Toyama Glass Art Museum. On the tram, we had a lively conversation about my past experiences in Oceania and our shared hobby of fishing. Morning: City Sightseeing Toyama Glass Art Museum: We viewed the permanent exhibition by Dale Chihuly as well as a special exhibition of Gallé works. One of the guests was especially interested in glass and looked at the works very intently, purchasing a piece by a Toyama artist as a souvenir. Ikeda Yasubei Shoten: The guests received an explanation of traditional medicine and enjoyed a hands-on experience making Hangontan pills. Toyama Castle Park: I explained the history of the Warring States period and the former Chitose Palace. Although the cloudy sky meant we could not see the distant scenery, the guests were delighted by the silver-white castle still dusted with the previous night's snow, describing it as having a wonderful atmosphere. Lunch: Local Cuisine On the way to the station, we had lunch at a local restaurant. Most of the guests enjoyed the requested "Toyama Black Ramen," praising it as delicious. Afternoon: Iwase Area In the afternoon, we took the Portram to Iwase. The Baba Family Residence (a former shipping agent for the Kitamaebune trade): I explained that the Lafcadio Hearn (Koizumi Yakumo) collection donated to the University of Toyama was made possible through the support of the Baba family. The guests showed a strong interest in the architectural style, which made explaining it very rewarding as a guide. The Streetscape of Iwase and Local Sake: At another sake brewery, the guests chose the now-popular collaboration sake "Link 8888" (Masuizumi x Chivas Regal) as a souvenir. We boarded the 14:45 Portram and safely concluded the tour at Toyama Station around 15:05. The guests and I had a great deal in common, making it a fun day and a fitting way to end the year.

    Click here for more details: Toyama Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassToyama Station～Toyama Station – Nishicho – Higashi-Iwase – Toyama Station650JPY
    Total650JPY

    Tour Report by Naoto

    With a unique professional background encompassing both academia and international affairs, I offer a distinctive and enriching guiding experience for visitors to the Hokuriku region, specializing in Toyama and Kanazawa. My approach goes beyond standard sightseeing; I focus on providing a deep, comparative cultural understanding of Japan and its traditions.
    For many years, I served as an English Language Instructor at various junior colleges and universities. This extensive experience has honed my ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and to engage with people from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. Furthermore, I have had valuable exposure to high-level international communication through my work accompanying delegations for international conferences and official inspection tours. This has equipped me with a strong foundation in professional protocol and a refined sense of hospitality essential for serving international guests.
    My professional strengths are notably multifaceted. Having worked in art galleries, I possess a detailed knowledge of art and aesthetics, allowing me to offer nuanced explanations of local crafts, museum exhibits, and artistic traditions. Complementing this, my knowledge of real estate provides a solid understanding of architecture, enabling me to discuss the historical context and structural significance of both traditional Japanese buildings—such as those found in Gokayama—and modern regional developments. By weaving together art, history, and architecture, I can present a holistic narrative of the region’s development.
    I am proud to be a certified Regional Licensed Tour Guide, having obtained my qualification in January 2025. Since then, I have successfully guided tours through key areas of Toyama Prefecture, including the UNESCO World Heritage site of Gokayama, the historical castle town of Takaoka, the stunning natural beauty of Kurobe, and the modern vibrancy of Toyama City. Given the deep historical connections between the prefectures, my guiding extends to the famous cultural capital of Kanazawa City in Ishikawa Prefecture. Moving forward, my goal is to cover the entire Hokuriku region (Toyama, Ishikawa, and Fukui), providing comprehensive itineraries that connect these culturally rich areas.
    What truly sets my tours apart is my passion for the natural environment. I am an enthusiast of outdoor activities and deeply familiar with Toyama’s spectacular landscapes. For travelers who wish to connect with nature, I can seamlessly integrate activities such as hiking in the mountains or fishing excursions into a custom itinerary. This allows my guests to not only witness the region’s natural beauty but to actively experience it.
    My commitment is to utilize my overseas guiding experience to introduce the unique charm of Toyama and the Hokuriku region from a comparative cultural perspective, ensuring every international visitor gains an appreciation that resonates personally. Book a tour with me to unlock a deeper, more personalized, and adventurous journey through the heart of Japan.

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  • Ishikawa in One Day: Kenrokuen Garden and begin

    Ishikawa in One Day: Kenrokuen Garden and begin

    Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet in the lobby of Hotel Nikko Kanazawa
    • Purchase 6 one-day free bus passes at the Hokuriku Railway ticket counter in front of Kanazawa Station and board the bus.
    • 9:20 Arrive at Kenrokuen Garden and begin strolling.
    • 10:00 Visit the Kaga Honda Museum near Kenrokuen Garden.
    • 10:30 Visit the Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Traditional Arts and Crafts next to Kenrokuen Garden, and do some shopping.
    • 11:00 Return to Kenrokuen Garden and continue strolling, then visit Ishikawa Gate.
    • 11:30 Head from the Kenrokuen bus stop to Korinbo.
    • 11:45 From Korinbo, walk into the Nagamachi Samurai District, stroll along the canal, and visit the Takada Family Residence Ruins and the Ashigaru Museum.
    • 12:30 Take the Kanazawa Flat Bus that runs along the canal toward Omicho Market.
    • 12:45 Have Kanazawa curry for lunch at a restaurant in the basement of Meitetsu M'za across from Omicho Market.
    • 13:25 Stroll through Omicho Market, buy grilled eel skewers and wagyu beef skewers, and eat them at the market's eat-in spot.
    • 13:50 Take the bus from the Musashigatsuji bus stop toward the Higashi Chaya District.
    • 14:00 Stroll through the Higashi Chaya District and have gold leaf soft serve at Hakuichi. Visit Shima and learn about Kanazawa's geisha culture.
    • 15:00 After the tour, explain to the 5 people who have reservations how to get to the Ninja Temple, then conclude the tour.

    Title: Can You Do a Private Winter Day Tour of Kanazawa in the Snow? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Asia. One of them had previously come to Japan for a short period to teach English at an elementary school in Tachikawa City, so they spoke a little Japanese. The others were visiting Japan for the first time, but they were very knowledgeable about Japanese history, culture, and food. At first they were surprised by the cold and snow in Kanazawa and worried whether the tour would really be possible, but they gradually got used to it and walked a great deal. They were deeply impressed by the snow-covered yukitsuri ropes in Kenrokuen Garden and took many photos, and they showed keen interest in the exhibits at the Kaga Honda Museum and the crafts at the Ishikawa Museum of Traditional Arts and Crafts. For lunch they requested Kanazawa curry, as well as eel skewers and wagyu skewers at Omicho Market, and they also asked to try gold leaf soft serve ice cream in the Higashi Chaya District. Since all of these wishes were fulfilled, they seemed very satisfied. They were interested not only in the food but also in the samurai of Kanazawa, so I made a 4:00 reservation at the Ninja Temple, and the group planned to visit it together after the tour.

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    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherKanazawa Station／Hokuriku Railway Bus～Kenrokuen-shita・Kanazawa Castle／Hokuriku Railway Bus800JPY
    Total800JPY

    Tour Report by Masayo

    Hello.
    My name is Masayo Shirai.
    I have been a national licensed tour guide of English since April in 2014.
    I was born. raised, and still living near the Higashi Chaya District in Kanazawa.
    I have guided lots of foreign guests in my hometown Kanazawa, Gokayama, Shirakawago, Takaymam, Kaga, Fukui, and Toyama.
    I have guided FIT, highend FIT, group tour, and bus tours.
    I have been learning tea cemoney, flower arrangement, and noh performance of noh chanting and playing the hand drum.
    I can take you to the experience spot of such traditional cultural spots in my hometown, Kanazawa,

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    Oct 5, 2025
    L
    LightPacker147788
    Kanazawa visit
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Very interesting tour with Masayo. She took us…

    Jun 27, 2025
    H6092PZsuem
    Pleasant and interesting morning
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Masayo was our guide for the morning.…

    Mar 16, 2025
    952bonnieh
    Wonderful!!!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We loved our time with Masayo! Thank you for a…

    Jan 3, 2025
    U5110ZKjades
    A day in Kanazawa with Masayo!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Masayo Shirai was an excellent…

  • Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    December, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • PM 12:00 Tour starts from the hotel
    • Transfer: Keihan & Subway, Nippombashi
    • PM 12:30 – 13:15 Kuromon Market, lunch
    • Transfer: Subway, Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka
    • PM 13:45-14:45 Visit Shitennoji Temple
    • Transfer: Subway & JR, Nankai, Sumiyoshi Taisha
    • PM 15:30-16:10 Visit Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
    • Transfer: Nankai, Namba
    • PM 16:30-17:30 From Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street via Hozenji Temple to Dotonbori
    • 　　　　　　　After that, head north through Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street.　
    • PM 17:40 With the guest's consent, after viewing the illumination of Midosuji, the tour ends at Yodoyabashi.

    What's a Private Day Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kuromon Market, Shitennoji, and Dotonbori The guests were a family visiting from North America. Following the itinerary specified by a local travel agency, we carried out the tour, but confirmed that they needed to return to their Hotel before 6:00 p.m. due to a dinner reservation. For lunch, we visited Kuromon Market, where I guided them to reasonably priced shops as we walked back and forth through the market, and they enjoyed skewers of grilled wagyu beef as well as fried sweet potato and strawberry skewers. After that, we visited Shitennoji and Sumiyoshi Taisha. Since it was before the New Year, they were able to sightsee in a quiet environment, and the guests were very pleased. We then moved to Namba, walking from the Sennichimae Doguyasuji shopping street to Dotonbori, and also stopped by Hozenji before enjoying takoyaki and kushikatsu. After that, since there was a little time left, at the guests' request we walked along Shinsaibashi-suji up to Yodoyabashi, ending the tour. It was quite a full day, but I was glad we were able to see the illumination along Midosuji.

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    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainWatanabebashi～Naniwabashi240JPY
    Section 2SubwayKitahama (Osaka)～Nippombashi (Osaka)190JPY
    Section 3SubwayShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka～Tennoji190JPY
    Section 4TrainTennoji～Shin-Imamiya150JPY
    Section 5TrainShin-Imamiya～Sumiyoshi Taisha240JPY
    Section 6TrainSumiyoshi Taisha～Namba (Nankai Line)240JPY
    Total1,250JPY

    Tour Report by YOSHI

    Hello , My name is Hideharu Yoshino . Just call me” Yoshi” .
    I have been involved with many foreign Business partners through my business life for 38 years ,
    Based on my work experience , I would like to try my best to make you comfortale and Happy fruitful times during your stay in Japan .
    Not only giving you basic tourist information about famous sightseeing spot , also I would enjoy to give you the back ground inofrmation in my word.
    ” Once in a lifetime encounter ” Let’s enjoy with me Miracle time to be picked up from 6 billion in somewhere Japan!

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    Sep 29, 2026
    matthewsY2654UC
    Highly recommended!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Yoshi is an exceptional guide where he took us…

    Sep 28, 2026
    751juergend
    Perfect day in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the perfect guide, very…

    Sep 27, 2026
    karen_f
    YOSHI san was incredible!
    Viator review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    YOSHI met us at our…

    Sep 19, 2026
    Plumb72
    A morning in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a fab tour with Yoshi…