タイトル What's a One-Day Private Tokyo Tour of Imperial Palace, Meiji Shrine, and Asakusa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report 本文 The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They had arrived the previous evening and were scheduled to board a cruise ship for the following several days, so their Tokyo sightseeing was limited to this one day. Since they were interested in history, culture, and gardens, we toured the three locations above using the subway and JR lines. The weather was pleasant today, and they were able to enjoy a comfortable stroll. In particular, at the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, they took great interest in the many varieties of trees found in Japan. At Meiji Shrine, we also had lunch at a cafe as a break, and since it was not as crowded as Asakusa, they seemed to be quite satisfied. A notable stop on the tour was the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. The East Gardens are part of the inner grounds of the Imperial Palace and are open to the public free of charge. The gardens feature the remains of Edo Castle, including massive stone walls and the foundation of the former castle keep. They are also known for their beautifully maintained lawns, seasonal flowers, and a wide variety of trees, making them a peaceful retreat in the heart of Tokyo.

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Tour Report by SAM

Hello! I am Osamu Kitagawa , National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter(English). Please call me SAM.
I love Japanese culture, history, and visiting historical places, scenic spots, and fashionable spots as well. I can guide you all over Japan as I have ever visited all prefectures in Japan. I have a global experience in international banking business including residing in Hong Kong and Jakarta. So I’m able to have daily conversations in Indonesian language, too. I’m looking forward to seeing you soon!

Certification
Certified Travel Services Manager
Authorized Tour Conductor
Kyoto Expert Certification

Tour title: What's a Private Day Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was one person visiting from North America. They had traveled to Tokyo with friends, and while the friends wished to visit an amusement park, the guest very much wanted to see Hiroshima and came all the way alone. After visiting Hiroshima, they planned to return to Tokyo to rejoin their friends. The day before, they had walked from Hiroshima Station to their accommodation carrying luggage, and continued exploring on foot afterward, which left them with a slightly sore knee. Keeping an eye on their condition, we used public transportation as much as possible. The guest had also visited the Peace Memorial Museum the previous day, but it had been crowded and they could not view it slowly, so we visited together first thing in the morning. Since we entered around 8:30, it was not yet very crowded and they were able to take their time. Wanting to remember everything clearly, they took many photos. Although this was their second visit and they had researched a great deal before coming to Japan and were already very knowledgeable, they listened especially earnestly to the testimonies of the atomic bomb survivors, deeply moved. Before visiting Miyajima, we had okonomiyaki for lunch, which they loved, saying many times that it was wonderful. At Miyajima they took many photos. This day too it was very crowded with tourists and school excursion students, but fortunately the timing was good and we were able to enter Itsukushima Shrine and go around slowly. As I was concerned about their foot, I asked how they wished to handle Daisho-in Temple, but they wanted to go, so we visited while being careful with the pace. They were delighted by unique experiences such as walking the corridors and the Henjokutsu cave. In addition, a ceremonial burning of paper cranes happened to be taking place, and the guest was able to take part, and was moved that they had such a special experience. On the way back from Miyajima, they expressed a wish to also stop by Hiroshima Castle if possible, and agreed to walk a bit more, so we visited Hiroshima Castle and they took many photos before returning to the accommodation, ending the tour. They told me it had been a wonderful tour and perfect, which made me very happy, and I ended the tour with renewed gratitude that they had come all the way to Hiroshima.

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Tour Report by Mari

Hello. My name is Mari.
I am a certified local tour guide in Hiroshima.

I was born and grew up in Hiroshima until I entered in a university in Tokyo.
After 6 years in Tokyo, I came back to Hiroshima because I really love my hometown and wanted to spend the rest of my life here.

Hiroshima is very comfortable city to live in and rich in nature.
I am so happy that I have been able to raise my kids here.

Hiroshima is absolutely full of beautiful and historically important places and also the great food.
I am so excited to introduce the wonderful experiences here in Hiroshima and hope you will come to love this place, too.
Look forward to meeting you.

What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like from Fushimi Inari to Kinkaku-ji? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest came from Europe and was traveling to Tokyo by way of Hiroshima, Osaka, and Kyoto before heading home. The guest had a nice Lumix camera, so I guided the tour while pointing out photogenic spots along the way. For shopping, the guest bought a fox-shaped wallet and a fox paper craft at Fushimi Inari. Since we started at 8:00, which was a little early, we had not set aside a specific time for lunch, so we took a break at Kinkaku-ji and had some matcha soft-serve ice cream. A notable stop on the tour was Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, in Kyoto. This Zen Buddhist temple is famous for its top two floors completely covered in gold leaf, which shimmer beautifully as they reflect on the surrounding pond. Originally built in the late 14th century as a retirement villa for a shogun, it was later converted into a temple and remains one of Kyoto's most iconic and photographed landmarks. The surrounding strolling garden is carefully designed to offer picture-perfect views of the pavilion from multiple angles, making it an ideal spot for photography.

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Tour Report by Kazz

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!

タイトル欄： What Is a Private Food and Tea Culture Tour in Kanazawa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report 本文欄： This was a private tour for guests visiting from Europe. The theme was food culture and tea culture, but before the tour began, the guests requested to see Kanazawa Castle Park, so with their agreement we adjusted the planned route slightly before starting. After visiting Kanazawa Castle Park and enjoying a matcha experience at Kenrokuen Garden, we went to Omicho Market. Since one of the guests followed a vegetarian diet, while the other enjoyed grilled seafood such as squid and scallops, I guided them to a fruit shop where suitable items could be found, which took a little extra effort. After that, at the Higashi Chaya District, the guests also enjoyed a sake tasting and had a wonderful time. A notable stop on the tour was Kenrokuen Garden, one of the three most celebrated landscape gardens in Japan. Developed over nearly two centuries by the ruling Maeda clan, Kenrokuen is renowned for its seasonal beauty, featuring winding streams, stone lanterns, teahouses, and carefully arranged trees. The garden's name means "Garden of the Six Sublimities," referring to the six attributes considered essential to a perfect garden: spaciousness, seclusion, artifice, antiquity, water, and panoramic views.

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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!

What Does a 6-Hour Private Tour of Tokyo by Car Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Since they had a cruise trip after the tour, they had a lot of luggage, and the tour started about 30 minutes late as the group was slow to gather. First stop: Asakusa. We strolled around Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise Shopping Street, and Senso-ji Temple. The guests experienced Japanese culture, such as the smoke from the large incense burner and praying at Senso-ji Temple. I explained Buddhism and Shinto. Second stop: Tsukiji Outer Market (lunch). We did a food tour. The group enjoyed wagyu skewers, sushi, rice bowls, gyoza, fruit, and more, all together in a lively atmosphere. They enjoyed it right up until the bus departure time. Third stop: Shibuya Scramble Crossing. With the clear autumn weather, the area was bustling with many people. After looking down from the 2nd floor of Mark City, the guests experienced crossing through the crowds. We also saw the Hachiko statue. Fourth stop: Tokyo Tower. Although the plan was only to view the exterior from the car window, we got off for a restroom break and the guests were pleased to be able to take photos from the ground. I asked the driver to take them to Yokohama Osanbashi Pier, and I ended my guiding here.

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Tour Report by goreilo

Hello! My name is Katsu Hayama.
My nickname is “goreilo” and it means a futsal goalkeeper in Portuguese.
I love football. I play football every weekend with my senior teammates.
I live in the suburban area in Tokyo, where surrounded by the nature.
I used to be a mechanical engineer of commercial vehicle,
heavy duty truck and bus, for long years. After retirement, I studied hard,
and I could become a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter.
I will navigate you all around the fascinate city, old and modern Tokyo wherever you want to go!
I’m looking forward to meeting you soon!
Thank you very much.

Halo! Nama saya Katsu Hayama. Nama panggilan saya adalah “goreilo” yang berarti penjaga gawang futsal dalam bahasa Portugis.
Saya suka sepak bola. Saya bermain sepak bola setiap akhir pekan dengan rekan-rekan senior saya.
Saya tinggal di daerah pinggiran kota Tokyo, yang dikelilingi oleh alam.
Saya dulunya adalah seorang insinyur mekanik kendaraan komersial, truk tugas berat, dan bus, selama bertahun-tahun.
Setelah pensiun, saya belajar keras, dan saya bisa menjadi Juru Bahasa Pemandu Berlisensi Pemerintah Nasional.
Saya akan memandu Anda berkeliling kota yang mempesona, Tokyo lama dan modern ke mana pun Anda ingin pergi!
Saya berharap dapat segera bertemu dengan Anda!
Terima kasih banyak.

Title: What's a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo's Gardens and Meiji Shrine Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. At Kiyosumi Garden, which we reached by subway, large carp and many turtles could be seen in the pond, drawing the attention of the group. They also enjoyed watching the movements of the creatures at the water's surface, such as a little egret skillfully catching small fish. At the next stop, Hamarikyu Gardens, they took photos of the cosmos fields and the pond banks, and fully enjoyed their stroll. After leaving the garden, we had lunch in Shiodome, then moved on to Meiji Shrine. At the entrance gate, I gave an overview of Japanese history, the difference between Shinto and the martial arts, and the origins of Meiji Shrine. We passed through the South Torii and walked along the approach while I provided explanations as we went, then worshipped at the main hall. We took a break at the Forest Terrace within the shrine grounds, walked along Takeshita Street, and then took the train to Shibuya Station. We took photos next to the Hachiko statue, viewed the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, and ended the tour at the Shibuya subway station.

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Tour Report by Shigeru

I am a certified guide-interpreter based in Tokyo.
I was born and raised in Tokyo, so I am familiar with Tokyo and its surrounding areas. Please leave anything related to the Tokyo area to me.
Tokyo is not only full of Japanese charm but also has many unique aspects.
The always-bustling Tsukiji Outer Market conveys Japan’s food culture.
Asakusa conveys Japanese traditions and culture through old temples, shrines and long-established stores.
Shibuya spreads Japanese pop culture.
You can immerse yourself in history and culture in the quiet natural surroundings such as the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace or Meiji Shrine.
Tokyo is a treasure trove of attractions for travelers. Please come and experience the wonderful Tokyo with me.

When Visiting Lake Ashi: A Tokyo Private Tour Report by a Japan Guide Agency Licensed Guide The guests were a group visiting from North America. They had started a cruise in Asia and traveled around various parts of Japan, arriving at their final destination of Yokohama the day before, then moving on to Tokyo for their first day of sightseeing in the city. For the next day, some of the guests planned to go shopping in Ginza, while others had no particular plans and expressed a wish to try riding the Shinkansen, so after my explanation about the Shinkansen, they decided to make a round trip to Nagoya. They would be returning home the day after next. During the advance arrangements, the travel agency acting as an intermediary had listed up many Tokyo sightseeing spots, so the list of requested destinations was overflowing, which made coordination difficult. Even so, they wanted to have a proper lunch, so at a restaurant where reservations could be made, they were delighted with tempura (rice bowl and soba). At Senso-ji Temple, the autumn Golden Dragon Dance was being performed, so they were able to see something rare. Since one of the guests had a bad knee, they waited in the vehicle at places that required some walking. On Takeshita Street, everyone was surprised at just how crowded it was. As everyone was quite tired, and since Tokyo Tower could be seen from their room, we only took photos from the car window right nearby without getting off. I was glad we were able to finish safely within the scheduled time. A notable stop on the tour was Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. Senso-ji is Tokyo's oldest temple, founded in the 7th century, and is one of the city's most visited religious sites. The approach to the temple, Nakamise-dori, is a bustling shopping street lined with stalls selling traditional snacks and souvenirs, leading up to the iconic Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) with its massive red lantern.

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Tour Report by Ted

I had worked in the international business scene for over 40 years and traveled to North America and European countries over 1000 days.
After I retired from the business, I traveled to most of the major sightseeing spots in all 47 prefectures in Japan.

My guide is starting from a brief history of the site where I am going to guide. I usually add a briefing about Japanese culture based on religions, such as Shinto Shrine and Buddhist temples. A geographic background behind the history is also important.
My course includes 4 to 5 (in 6 hours) sites from the following depending on where I will pick the guests up;
– Senso ji Temple
– Kappabashi Kitchenware Market
– Tokyo Skytree
– Ueno Park
– Nezu Shrine
– Imperial Palace outer park
– Tokyo Central Station, Marunouchi historic district
– Tsukiji Fish Market
– Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
– Ginza
– Odaiba
– Hama Rikyu Garden
– Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
– Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
– Roppongi
– Meiji Shrine
– Harajuku & Takeshita Street
– Shibuya
– and Any of your interest.

I am happy to introduce Japanese Manga/Anime cultures such as Akihabara, Nakano Broadway and Ghibli related sites.
Travelling along the JR central line where guests can stopover at major animation studios (it is not accepted to visit the inside). The majority of animation studios such as TMS Entertainment, SUNRISE, A1 Pictures etc. are located in this area. Suginami Animation museum, Studio Ghibli and Ghibli Museum are also located.
Guests can feel old houses in the Spirited Away scene in the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.

I can also provide a pilgrimage to the sacred place (shooting location) for the Shinkai Makoto animation movies such as Your name, Weathering with you, and Suzume.

Another interesting feature is to visit authentic Japanese style pub meals such as Yakitori, Karaage, and Sushi etc.
Asakusa Hoppy Street, Ameyoko Street, Yurakucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku Golden gai, Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho are nice to visit.

A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

In addition to the above, I am available in the neighboring cities.

Kawagoe is an old town developed in the 17th century. It has very close relationship with the Edo central government. Kawagoe castle ruins, Kitain temple and 500 Buddha statues will welcome the guests.
These areas are renovated and provide an old days atmosphere.
Japanese style sweets food stands will fascinate the guests.
Kawagoe is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

Kamakura is the first Samurai worriers government established in the late 12th century.
The Buddhism are introduced to Japan in the 6th century, and flourished at Nara and Kyoto later. A newer Buddhism sect such as Zen has well developed at Kamakura area.
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Gigantic Buddha statue at Kotokuin Temple and the flower temple Hasedera Temple are must-see.
Kamakura is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

I am also happy to develop any other site the guests have interest.

Title: What Can You See on a Private Day Tour of Kyoto's Temples? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America (I only learned details after meeting them). Their requests were clear from the start, which made proposing an itinerary easy. They were staying in Kyoto for six days and wanted to learn about Kyoto's history in depth, so I made sure to explain things thoroughly. They listened very attentively, so I had no worries at all about whether my explanations might feel excessive. Since Kiyomizu-dera Temple was expected to be crowded, I suggested traveling by bus, but the buses were full and we missed two of them. There was no choice but to proceed on foot to Kiyomizu-dera as originally planned. I felt bad about the lost time, but during the walk they asked about other recommended places, so I showed them maps and explained the history carefully. Originally Sanjusangendo was not part of the plan, and I had intended to mention it during lunch, but since the guests walked relatively quickly, the rest of the schedule proceeded smoothly. So we decided to skip lunch and continue the tour all the way to Sanjusangendo. The guests seemed to enjoy all of the destinations, and they especially said they liked the rock garden at Kennin-ji Temple and the Buddhist statues at Sanjusangendo. The atmosphere in front of the rock garden at Kennin-ji was lovely, so I took some photos. I forgot that they should be taken in landscape orientation, so I apologize that they are in portrait orientation. However, since the guests kindly agreed to have the photos posted on the website, I am submitting them. A notable stop on the tour was Sanjusangendo. Sanjusangendo is a Buddhist temple in Kyoto famous for its main hall, which is the longest wooden structure in Japan. It houses 1,001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, arranged in long rows, along with a large central seated Kannon figure. The temple's name refers to the thirty-three spaces between the pillars of the hall, and it has long been admired for the striking sight of its rows of gilded statues.

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Tour Report by Satoko

I am a 54-year-old woman, living in Kyoto for nearly 40 years. I got the license in 2001. Since then, I worked as an interpreter or a translator in several companies, secretary at universities, and now work for a company on weekdays at the international dept.I do guiding job only weekend now. I started full swing guiding career after COVID-19 pandemic. I have gotten good review from many of my guests. I love my hometown, Kyoto which has a lot of interesting and historical sites to see. Particularly, I am native to Arashiyama which is famous for bamboo forest. So, I know a lot of places where you can relax yourself around this area. Other than that, Kyoto has many attractive sites which surely interest you.Also, I like meeting many people from different cultural background. I am very happy if I learn about your culture as well. Let’s enjoy exploring around Kyoto!

Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Osaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Okonomiyaki, and Shinsaibashi The guests were a group of longtime friends visiting from North America. The first planned destination, Shinsekai, had already been visited the previous evening, so we changed the plan to Osaka Castle. The weather was wonderful, and I was able to talk with everyone equally. For lunch, we shared okonomiyaki and yakisoba together, which were all delicious. During lunch, one of the guests wished to try a massage, so we went to check, but there was a one-hour wait, so we gave up on the idea. The group wished to buy an authentic yukata as a gift, so we went to a major department store in Shinsaibashi, where some of the guests did a lot of shopping. A notable stop on the tour was Osaka Castle. Osaka Castle is one of Japan's most famous landmarks and was originally built in the late 16th century by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a key figure in the unification of Japan. The castle is surrounded by stone walls, moats, and expansive grounds that are especially popular during the cherry blossom season. The main keep now houses a museum where visitors can learn about the history of the castle and the warlords connected to it, and the top floor offers panoramic views of the surrounding city.

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Tour Report by HIRO

Hello and welcome to Japan!

My name is Hiroaki Ogawa, and I am an English-speaking professional tour guide based mainly in Nara, Kyoto, and Osaka. It is my great pleasure to accompany you and help make your time in Japan comfortable, enjoyable, and memorable.

Japan has a fascinating history and culture, and I believe that visiting a famous temple, shrine, castle, or traditional neighborhood becomes much more interesting when you understand the stories behind it. During our tour, I will be happy to explain not only what you are seeing, but also the history, traditions, religion, architecture, and everyday customs that have shaped Japan.

I also believe that every traveler has different interests. Some guests are fascinated by history and Buddhism, while others enjoy food, shopping, traditional arts, local life, or beautiful scenery. Please feel free to tell me what interests you most. I will do my best to make our tour suit your interests and pace.

Your comfort and safety are also very important to me. I will help you with transportation, directions, timing, restaurants, and other practical matters whenever necessary.

I hope that our time together will give you not only wonderful photographs and memories, but also a deeper understanding of Japan and its people.

Welcome to Japan, and I look forward to meeting you and sharing a wonderful day together!

What's a Private Day Tour of Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Open-Air Museum, Hakone Shrine, and Komagatake The guests came from North America. I had coordinated the itinerary in detail with the group beforehand, centering the route around the Open-Air Museum. The original plan was to do the ropeway and cruise first, but since it was raining in the morning, we went to Hakone Shrine first. Fortunately, by the time we arrived at the museum the weather had cleared, and we were able to view the artworks in bright sunshine. We had planned to take a bus from the nearest stop to the museum, "Ninotaira-iriguchi," but since the guests wanted to save time, we called a car via a taxi app and headed to Hakone-en. When we arrived at Hakone-en, the summit of Komagatake was covered in clouds, so I suggested a Lake Ashi cruise, but the guests wished to ride the ropeway, so we headed up to the summit. Unfortunately it was completely white with fog, but we walked to Motomiya and offered prayers. The guests said it was a very special experience. Afterward I suggested a Lake Ashi cruise on a boat, but the guests said they were tired and wished to return to their accommodation, so we parted ways there. Since Hakone-en and Ryuguden are right next to each other, they walked back. A notable stop on the tour was Hakone Shrine. Hakone Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located on the shore of Lake Ashi, founded in the 8th century and long revered by travelers and warriors for protection and safe passage. It is especially famous for its "Heiwa no Torii," a vermilion gate that stands in the waters of Lake Ashi and offers a striking view, particularly on clear days when Mount Fuji can be seen in the background. The shrine's wooded approach, lined with tall cedar trees and stone lanterns, creates a serene and atmospheric setting that many visitors find memorable.

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Tour Report by YUMI

I’m YUMI. Japan is full of history, nature and culture. I would like to talk about them from many aspects. When you have some questions, don’t hesitate to ask me. There’re many off the beaten paths in Japan. If you want to walk in a hidden local area, I’ll tailor the special course as you wish.
Experiencing new foods is also one of many intriguing things during your trip. I would recommend anything from street foods such as Ramen, Yakitori to authentic Sushi or elegant courses. My policy is to cherish your feelings and time. Let’s enjoy talking and walking with me!