Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto: Nijo Castle & Kiyomizu-dera

    Kyoto: Nijo Castle & Kiyomizu-dera

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Meet at The Chapter Kyoto, a Hotel
    • 08:45 to 09:45 Nijo Castle
    • 10:05 to 11:00 Heian Shrine
    • 11:30 to 12:10 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 12:20 to 13:05 Sanjusangendo
    • 13:30 to 14:30 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 14:30 Disband at Kiyomizu-dera

    Title: What Can You See on a 6-Hour Private Kyoto Walking Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. They wished to visit as many spots as possible within 6 hours, so we explored 5 popular locations. They did not stop to take photos, visit souvenir shops, or have lunch, focusing entirely on sightseeing. Normally in 6 hours we can cover around 4 spots, but this time we were able to visit as many as 5. We parted ways at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and they planned to continue on their own to Yasaka Pagoda, Yasaka Shrine, and Gion. I believe they had a fulfilling day.

    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: East Gardens of the Imperial Palace & Yanaka

    Tokyo in One Day: East Gardens of the Imperial Palace & Yanaka

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:00 Meet at Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
    • 13:00 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 14:30 Harajuku Lunch
    • 15:10 Meiji Shrine
    • 16:10 Takeshita Street, Omotesando
    • 17:00 Stroll around Yanaka
    • 18:00 Naka-Okachimachi, Toei Oedo Line, Disband

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who had relocated many years earlier. They were very steady and composed. One of the guests carefully wanted to confirm our route and where we were at each moment, so I explained things thoroughly using the subway map and other maps. They came to understand the scale of Tokyo and seemed very reassured. Following the wishes of the guests, I took them to GONPACHI for hand-rolled sushi. Both were very satisfied and sent photos of the dishes to family. I saw them off at Naka-Okachimachi Station on the Oedo Line, and they said it had been a truly fulfilling and rewarding day, bringing the tour to a close.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 2SubwayOmotesando~Sendagi210JPY
    Section 3TrainNippori~Okachimachi150JPY
    Total540JPY

    My name is Kris,
    Before becoming a tour guide, I worked for a major steelmaking company as an engineer for many years. During my career, I lived and worked in both Germany and the United States for a total of five years. These experiences helped me understand different cultures and ways of thinking, which now helps me connect easily with guests from around the world.

    After retirement, I chose a second career as a tour guide because I truly enjoy meeting people from different countries and sharing Japanese culture, history, and daily life. I have been working as a guide for more than nine years and continue to enjoy every tour.

    I currently live in Tokyo, but I was born and raised in Kobe, near Osaka, and my family roots are in Kyoto. As a result, I have extensive knowledge not only of Tokyo but also of Kyoto, Osaka, and many other parts of Japan. I enjoy introducing both famous landmarks and hidden local gems that many visitors might otherwise miss.

    I am energetic, friendly, and very sociable. I always try to create tours that are relaxed, flexible, and tailored to my guests’ interests.

    Travel is one of my greatest passions, especially visiting hot spring resorts. I have visited more than 80 onsen destinations throughout Japan, giving me a deep appreciation of Japanese culture and regional traditions.

    Whether you are visiting Japan for the first time or returning for another adventure, I would be delighted to help you discover the real Japan from a local perspective.

    I look forward to meeting you and helping you create wonderful memories in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and beyond.

    See you in Japan!

    Kris

    May 10, 2026
    Matt_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful Introduction to Tokyo
    We were so lucky to have Kris-San…

    Apr 29, 2026
    Rebecca_M
    Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour
    We had such a wonderful…

    Apr 21, 2026
    jacquir581
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We love Kris
    Kris was awesome! He was very flexible when our…

    Apr 2, 2026
    Frank_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A great day in Tokyo
    Great tour with an excellent guide, Kris.…

  • Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • PM 13:00 Hotel start
    • Travel by bus to Hiro-koji
    • PM 14:00-14:45 Myoryuji Temple tour start
    • Travel by bus to Kenrokuen-shita
    • PM 15:15-16:30 Kanazawa Castle Park – Hishi Yagura, Gojukken Nagaya, Hashizumemon Tsuzuki Yagura, Gyokusen'in Garden
    • PM 16:30-16:50 Oyama Shrine
    • Travel on foot, guiding to a restaurant in Korinbo where the tour ends PM 17:00

    What's a Private Walking Tour of Kanazawa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. Their first-ever trip to Japan started in Kanazawa, which is a rare case, as most first-time visitors begin elsewhere. Having arrived early in the morning by train, the group dropped off their luggage at the hotel and started the tour immediately afterward. Since I thought they might be hungry, I guided them to a recommended restaurant at the end of the tour, which they appreciated. They also enjoyed the tour itself very much.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusMusashigatsuji・Omicho Market/Hokuriku Railroad Bus~Hiro-koji (Kanazawa City)/Hokuriku Railroad Bus210JPY
    Section 2BusHiro-koji (Kanazawa City)/Hokuriku Railroad Bus~Kenrokuen-shita・Kanazawa Castle/Hokuriku Railroad Bus210JPY
    Total420JPY

    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!

    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…

  • Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up @ JR Sannomiya Station
    • 2. 10:50 @ Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum
    • 3. 12:30 Lunch @ Hokkai Ramen (Santica Aji no Norengai)
    • 4. 13:30 @ Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden
    • 5. 15:00 Disband @ Shin-Kobe Station

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Kobe Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Sake, Ramen, and Herb Gardens Today's guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led this private tour, which is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides serving all 47 prefectures. We met at JR Sannomiya Station and first visited the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum. After an explanation of the sake brewing process, we went to the tasting corner, where the guests enjoyed both paid and free tastings and also did some shopping. Next was lunch. Since the guests requested ramen, we went to a ramen restaurant in Sannomiya. The guests enjoyed the ramen on their own and said it was very delicious. After lunch, we visited the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden. The herb garden had already entered the Christmas season and was somewhat crowded. We then ended the tour at Shin-Kobe Station, as the guests had requested. It was a slightly longer tour, but the guests were very pleased.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKobe-Sannomiya (Hanshin)~Sumiyoshi (Hyogo Pref. / Hanshin Line)200JPY
    Section 2TrainSumiyoshi (Hyogo Pref. / Hanshin Line)~Kobe-Sannomiya (Hanshin)200JPY
    Section 3OtherSannomiya (Kobe Municipal)~Shin-Kobe (Kobe Municipal)110JPY
    Total510JPY

    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…

  • Kagoshima in One Day: Shiroyama Observatory & Sengan-en

    Kagoshima in One Day: Shiroyama Observatory & Sengan-en

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet up @ Kagoshima-Chuo Station
    • 10:00 Shiroyama Observatory
    • 11:00 Sengan-en
    • 11:45 Lunch @ Oukatei (inside Sengan-en)
    • 13:30 Sakurajima Visitor Center & Foot Bath
    • 15:15 Disband @ Kagoshima-Chuo Station

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Kagoshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report from Japan Guide Agency The guests were a group visiting Kagoshima for the first time. They had arrived in Kagoshima by cruise ship from Tokyo, stopping at several ports along the way. After Kagoshima, they planned to continue their travels. At the Shiroyama Observatory, they enjoyed taking photographs of the magnificent Sakurajima and the Kagoshima cityscape. At Sengan-en, they seemed impressed by the splendid residence of the Shimazu family and its beautiful garden. At Sakurajima, they enjoyed a hot spring foot bath. Since I attended to their wishes as requested, I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassKagoshima-Chuo Station~Kagoshima-Chuo Station600JPY
    Section 2FerryKagoshima~Sakurajima Port250JPY
    Section 3FerrySakurajima Port~Kagoshima250JPY
    Total1,100JPY

    I am Seizo Kamiuto, National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English). I was born in Kagoshima City in Kyushu (Southern part of Japan) and grew up there until the graduation from a high school. I came to Tokyo to enter a University in Tokyo and since then, I have lived in Tokyo for more than 40 years and therefore I know Tokyo and its suburbs and Kagoshima City very well. After retiring from an IT company, I have been working as a Guide Interpreter of English since March 2018. I have guided many overseas guests to the popular sightseeing spots in Tokyo, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji area (Kawaguchiko Lake etc.), Hakone, Nikko, Yokohama, Kawagoe and Kagoshima and so on. I have received good reviews from many guests. I can explain the history and the culture of Japan in detail. I look forward to an opportunity to guide you in Japan. Thank you. Seizo Kamiuto

    Sep 27, 2026
    jonaJ5014ZK
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Seizo was a tremendously fabulous…

    Sep 11, 2026
    M7402TTsharonp
    Higly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing tour with Seizi Kaminto.…

    Sep 8, 2026
    OnAir57127583503
    Amazing Experience with Kamakura Day Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    We had an excellent time with Seizo Kamiuto as our…

    Sep 4, 2026
    B2319ZKjoseo
    Pleasant stroll through HISTORY
    Tripadvisor review: Kawagoe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a great time learning about…

  • Kyoto: Yakushiji Temple Yakushiji Temple & Kasuga-taisha Shrine

    Kyoto: Yakushiji Temple Yakushiji Temple & Kasuga-taisha Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 (Start of Tour) Mercure Kyoto Station Mercure Kyoto Station
    • (vehicle) In a car separately hired by the guest's agency
    • 9:30-10:00 Yakushiji Temple (UNESCO World Heritage) Yakushiji Temple
    • (vehicle) By car
    • 10:40- Todaiji (UNESCO World Heritage)
    • 10:40-11:10 Todaiji's Great Buddha Hall Todaiji Great Buddha Hall
    • We will be in the park with deer almost to the end of tour
    • (walk 5 minutes) On foot
    • 11:10-20 Todaiji's Nandaimon (South Great Gate) Todaiji Nandaimon
    • (walk 5 minutes) On foot
    • 11:30-50 Ukigumo-enchi in Nara Deer Park Nara Park Ukigumo-enchi
    • (vehicle) By car
    • 12:30-13:00 Vegan Lunch at Kinatei Vegetarian Restaurant Kinatei
    • (vehicle) Car + 5-minute walk (Negi-michi)
    • 13:30-14:30 Kasuga-taisha Shrine (UNESCO World Heritage)
    • Since traffic congestion is expected on the way to the Kasuga-taisha Main Hall parking lot, we will get off near Shinyakushiji Temple and
    •     walk along Negi-michi, going Wakamiya → Main Hall
    • (walk 5 minutes) On foot
    • 15:00 (End of Tour) The guest boards the car near Tamukeyama Hachimangu below Wakakusayama (guiding ends)
    •  Since the guest has a tea ceremony experience in Gion, Kyoto, the Nara tour ended early so as to make it in time. Since the guest said "You don't need to come all the way to Kyoto," we parted one hour early.

    What Is a Private Nara Day Tour Like with a Hired Car? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. A travel agency was involved as an intermediary and did not allow direct communication with the guests, which created many difficulties, but it was still an interesting experience overall. For example, the agency hired a car separately from [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), and until the last minute it was almost impossible to know whether it was a licensed vehicle, whether the driver was familiar with the geography of Nara, and so on. The evening before, the driver called me. He said, "I know Nara well, and I have received the itinerary." But when we actually met on the day, the driver did not even know Yakushiji Temple and had not received the itinerary from the agency. Still, the guests spoke with a perfect British accent, the driver had come years earlier as a technical trainee, and the vegetarian restaurant was run by people from the Okinawa region. When you think about it, it was a remarkable variety of backgrounds. I was able to hear many stories from both the guests and the driver, and it was truly a valuable experience. Guiding is a real pleasure.

    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa Skytree Photo

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa Skytree Photo

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at Hotel
    • 9:40 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:20 Nezu Shrine
    • 12:10 Purchase Welcome Suica at Ueno Station
    • 12:35 Lunch @Coffee-kan Asakusa Store
    • 13:35 Asakusa Kaminarimon
    • 14:35 Asakusa Skytree Photo
    • 14:45 Disband at Skytree Town Entrance

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Nezu Shrine, Ueno, and Asakusa The weather was mostly sunny, making it an ideal day for the tour. The guests wished to purchase a Welcome Suica card, but for the time being we proceeded with JR tickets and a one-day subway pass. At Meiji Shrine, we encountered many families celebrating Shichi-Go-San and one anniversary photo session, which the guests enjoyed seeing. At Nezu Shrine, they were surprised that the old architecture still remains. After purchasing a Welcome Suica card in Ueno, we headed to the pancake restaurant they had hoped to visit, but it was fully booked, so we enjoyed pancakes at a nearby café instead. In Asakusa, the guests enjoyed shopping. We ran out of time, but I guided them to the entrance of Skytree Town to conclude the tour. The guests appeared to be in high spirits throughout the day.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShiomi~Hatchobori (Tokyo)170JPY
    Section 2Free PassHatchobori~Meiji-jingumae900JPY
    Section 3Free PassMeiji-jingumae~Nezu0JPY
    Section 4Free PassNezu~Yushima0JPY
    Section 5Free PassUeno-hirokoji~Ueno0JPY
    Section 6Free PassUeno~Tawaramachi0JPY
    Section 7Free PassAsakusa~Oshiage0JPY
    Total1,070JPY

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1)10:10    Meet at the hotel, then head to Arashiyama via subway and Randen
    • 2)11:10~12:20 Arashiyama (Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple), then to Fushimi Inari via JR through Kyoto Station
    • 3)13:10~14:00 Fushimi Inari, then lunch
    • 4)14:10~14:50 Lunch, then to Gion-Shijo via Keihan
    • 5)15:20 Gion-Shijo, part ways here

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama and Fushimi Inari This tour was arranged in consultation with the guests to include Arashiyama. Before the tour began, there had been news reports of bear sightings near Arashiyama, so as a precaution I contacted the Ukyo Ward Office and confirmed that there was generally no problem during the daytime. I shared this information with the guests and we started the tour. Because one of the guests' belongings had been left behind, our departure was slightly delayed. The pace was a little slow overall, so the tour progressed more slowly than planned. The guests took many photos of the bamboo grove and the garden at Tenryu-ji Temple, and seemed to particularly enjoy the Tenryu-ji garden. At Fushimi Inari, they were amazed by the many torii gates. They took photos among the torii gates. After the visit, we had a light meal at a food court while chatting about the bears, Hygge, and other topics. Since they appeared somewhat tired and our progress was slow, I suggested taking a taxi rather than a bus and walking as a way to get from Gion-Shijo to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and we headed toward Gion-Shijo Station. After arriving at Gion-Shijo Station, the guests talked among themselves and, feeling a bit tired, decided not to go to Kiyomizu-dera Temple and to return to their accommodation instead. As they said they could make their own way back, we parted ways here.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashiyama (Kyoto)~Uzumasa-Tenjingawa260JPY
    Section 2TrainRanden-Tenjingawa~Arashiyama (Keifuku Line)250JPY
    Section 3TrainSaga-Arashiyama~Kyoto240JPY
    Section 4TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 5TrainFushimi Inari~Gion-Shijo240JPY
    Total1,140JPY

    Nice to meet you.
    My name is Hiroki Muramoto, please call me Hiro.
    Hiro in Japanese means large or big. Although I’m neither large nor big, you can call me Hiro. How are you doing ?
    I lived in a city nearby Kobe city. Do you know Kobe ? Kobe is famous for Kobe beef and pearl. If you have not yet had Kobe beef, you should taste the authentic Kobe beef. It is very satisfying taste. But I have recently moved to a city in Kyoto prefecture, so I can be in Kyoto city in about one hour. By the way, I am a family of four. I have a son and a daughter. My son now works in Tokyo. I sometimes go to Tokyo to see him. Tokyo is a huge city, but too crowded, so it seems not to suit me. I seem to be better suited to a small city than a big one. Where do you live in ? How many families do you have ? If you like, please tell me about them. I worked in the quality assurance department of a pharmaceutical company and visited the factories of foreign affiliated companies, so I became interested in foreign cultures and obtained a qualification as an interpreter guide in 2015.

    I have been a guide for about eight years. During that time, I have guided in Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara, Kochi and so on, although I could do little guiding work between 2020 and 2022 due to COVID-19. However, since last year, my guiding work has been back! So, I am happy to be able to meet different people again. My hobby is travelling, but sadly, I am not in a position to travel abroad easily at the moment due to the very weak yen, and I hope to travel abroad again when the situation eases a bit more.
    How many countries have you been to so far ? Which countries have you liked so far? Another hobby is watching sports – baseball and football. Do you like the baseball ? Do you know Otani, Japanese baseball player ? He has joined Dodgers in Los Angeles this year. I look forward to another successful year for Otani.

    By the way, what interests you in Japan? Food, history, scenery ? As far as tourist attractions are concerned, famous places are too crowded. If you like, I also would like to show you some less crowded places. Are you interested in experiencing something ? If you want to experience something, I can suggest an experience plan for you. If so, please contact me as early as possible. As for food, what kind of food do you like? There are many kinds of delicious food. Of course, you can get good food in fine restaurants, but you can also get good food in downtown restaurants. If you like alcohol, why don’t you try Japanese sake? It can range from light and fragrant to rich in flavor, so you’re sure to find a Japanese sake you like.

    My motto is “Be content with life.” However, I find myself complaining all the time. If you like, please tell me your motto. I want to treat all guests who visit Japan with the spirit of “Treasure every encounter” and guide them so that they can enjoy themselves and have good memories of Japan.
    You only live once (YOLO). So, I also want to enjoy it with you.

    I look forward to meeting you.
    Best regard.

    Nov 27, 2024
    Julianne_A
    Book it
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    This was a wonderful experience with our guide Hiro. He…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 10:30 Miyajima
    • 13:30 Lunch
    • 14:30 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 17:30 Hiroshima Station – Dismissal

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I guided guests visiting from Europe on a private day tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima. It was their first trip to Japan. At their prior request, we prioritized sightseeing and skipped a full lunch, but after about two hours of strolling around Miyajima, the guests enjoyed a light meal and coffee at a cafe. They were very fond of the tranquility of Itsukushima Shrine and Daisho-in Temple, and were impressed by the harmony between nature and faith in Japan. In the afternoon, we visited the Peace Memorial Park, where the guests reflected deeply on the history of the atomic bombing. Calm and courteous, the guests made it a warm and pleasant day from start to finish.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi~Nishi-Hiroshima330JPY
    Section 3BusNishi-Hiroshima Station (Koi) / Bonbus~Atomic Bomb Dome240JPY
    Section 4BusAtomic Bomb Dome~Hiroshima240JPY
    Total1,230JPY

    Originally, I’m a cycling guide doing cycling tours all over Japan.
    But, already done Hiroshima & Miyajima tour more than 400 times.
    I traveled many countries in my younger days. I traveled Europe, US, China, India, US, Mexico, Peru Australia, NZ, and so on.
    I decided to use this experience to become a guide.
    I’m afraid but no tipping required, because cycling guides are not allowed to have tipping in my association. And you do not need to pay for my lunch, because my lunch is prepared by our group.
    Please do not hesitate to ask me anything, I’ll change the plan according to your requests.
    Thank you for your understanding and please stay connected.

    Jun 1, 2026
    John_W
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    A top day with a top guide
    My wife…

    May 27, 2026
    Annabelle_C
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima in a day
    Yuji was a great communicator…

    May 12, 2026
    satishp656
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    HIROSHIMA HALF DAY TOUR
    Yuji is a warm, knowledgeble…

    May 10, 2026
    StephanieB6076
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Incredible Experience
    We had an incredible experience visiting Hiroshima…

  • Nagasaki: Inasayama Slope Car & Kofukuji Temple

    Nagasaki: Inasayama Slope Car & Kofukuji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Meet at Matsugae
    • 09:00 Inasayama Slope Car
    • 10:30 Atomic Bomb Museum
    • 11:00 Peace Park
    • 11:45 Lunch at Nagasaki Stadium City
    • 12:45 Dejima
    • 13:30 Meganebashi Bridge
    • 14:00 Kofukuji Temple
    • 14:30 Disband at the port

    Title: What Is a Private Nagasaki Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Due to a miscommunication with the driver, we ended up taking the slope car instead of the ropeway as originally planned. I felt we may have spent a little too much time on this, and since I was also unable to board the same slope car as the guests, they seemed to be feeling somewhat frustrated. Because of this, at the Atomic Bomb Museum I picked up the pace a bit and skipped some of the explanations I usually give, so that we could complete the entire itinerary. The guests asked how long they would be able to stay at the next stop, and since it is a compact town, I explained that we could get around efficiently and therefore allocate a certain amount of time accordingly.

    Hello, I’m Rikako, but please call me Coco. It would be my absolute pleasure to show you around my hometown of Nagasaki. Having performed in the Nagasaki Kunchi Festival in my childhood, I developed a deep interest in history and cultural exchange. This motivated me to become a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter during my university years. Since then, I have gained valuable experience—from assisting ambassadors at the Nagasaki Peace Memorial Ceremony to handling a wide variety of tours, including private and coach tours, site inspections, international conference support, and VIP hospitality.
    Explaining about Nagasaki’s history and culture is the most important to me. It is not only about this. I would love to provide genuine care so that your time in Nagasaki remains in your heart forever.
    I’m truly looking forward to guiding you in Nagasaki 🙂

    Jul 21, 2026
    Dawnery_V
    Viator review: Nagasaki Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Beautiful city. Great guide.
    Rikako was a great guide. She…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Todd_C
    Viator review: Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Had a very nice…
    Had a very nice experience. Coco was very…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Explore34946025848
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nagasaki
    Really good day out with a local guide, very informative about…

    Apr 4, 2026
    Giovanni_M
    Viator review: Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Good
    Nagasaki is a very interesting tour
    I would recommend…