Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Meiji Jingu Shrine

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Meiji Jingu Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at the front lobby of Citadines Shinjuku Tokyo
    • 10:50 Asakusa(Sensoji Temple)
    • 12:10 Imperial Palace
    • 13:20 Lunch at Harajuku @Ippudo Harakado
    • 14:00 Harajuku(Takeshita Street)
    • 14:30- Meiji Jingu Shrine
    • 15:20 End at Harajuku Station

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, the Imperial Palace, and Meiji Jingu 10:00 Meet at the front lobby of Hotel The guests were visiting from Oceania, with one member returning to Japan after a long absence and others visiting for the first time. Having arrived on a late flight the previous night, they mentioned feeling sleepy despite only a two-hour time difference. 10:50 Asakusa (Sensoji Temple) One of the guests listened with great interest to explanations about the origins of Sensoji Temple and the differences between Buddhism and Shinto, while the others showed little interest. 12:10 Imperial Palace One of the guests was intrigued by the meaning of the Nijubashi Bridge and by the recent visit of the U.S. President, who had entered the Imperial Palace through the main gate, while the others showed little interest. 13:20 Lunch at Harajuku, at a ramen restaurant Since one of the guests liked ramen, I guided them there. As it was a Sunday with rain and everywhere was crowded, I took them to a facility in Harajuku with multiple restaurants. However, the indoor temperature seemed too high for the guests. That said, one of the guests found the ramen itself very delicious. 14:00 Harajuku (Takeshita Street) One of the guests seemed tired, and I checked in with them several times, but the group preferred to pass through quickly and head to Meiji Jingu Shrine before returning to Shinjuku early. 14:30- Meiji Jingu Shrine The rain stopped and, feeling a cool breeze, they watched a wedding ceremony and families visiting for Shichi-Go-San, and the guest who had felt tired recovered. 15:20 End at Harajuku Station Since they had passed through Takeshita Street quickly earlier, the guests wished to return on their own to enjoy shopping, so we parted ways at Harajuku Station. One of the guests said it had been wonderful to learn about religion and history. The others had also recovered and cheerfully thanked me as we said goodbye.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassAsakusa~Hibiya0JPY
    Section 2Free PassShinjuku-gyoemmae~Asakusa700JPY
    Section 3Free PassNijubashimae~Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Total700JPY

    I take pride in my robust leg and overall physical strength, enabling me to complete a full marathon in under 4 hours. With a deep understanding of the Tokyo/Kanagawa area, I’ve resided in Kanagawa Prefecture for over 40 years. My expertise extends to places like Kamakura, including lesser-known hiking trails not typically found in guidebooks. With close to 30 years in a foreign IT company and over a decade in a Japanese firm, I possess extensive knowledge of the IT industry. Despite being certified as a tour guide in February 2023, I’ve already led numerous tours, earning high praise from my guests.

    Apr 18, 2026
    Neal_W
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Fun in Tokyo
    We had a great time in Tokyo.…

  • Kyoto: Arashiyama & Gio-ji Temple

    Kyoto: Arashiyama & Gio-ji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30   Hotel Meet (@Hotel Kyoto Ekimae)
    • 8:30-9:25 Travel (Subway: Kyoto Station→Karasuma Shijo, Hankyu Train: Karasuma→Arashiyama)
    • 9:25-10:30 Arashiyama Stroll (Togetsukyo Bridge, Tenryu-ji Garden [Sogenchi Garden, Hyakkaen], Bamboo Grove)
    • 10:40-11:10 Jojakko-ji Temple Visit
    • 11:20-12:00 Nison-in Temple Visit
    • 12:10-12:30 Gio-ji Temple Visit
    • 12:50-13:40 Lunch (CafeDining Sera/in front of Shakado)
    • 13:40-14:30 Travel (Keifuku Train: Arashiyama→Randen Tenjinbashi, Subway: Uzumasa Tenjingawa→Kyoto Station)
    • 14:30 Farewell at Kyoto Station

    Title: What Is a Private Arashiyama and Sagano Walking Tour in Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were an older group visiting from Europe. Some of the guests were visiting Japan for the second time, while it was the first visit to Japan for others in the group. Since the tour was an Arashiyama and Sagano tour, I guided the group through Arashiyama (the Togetsukyo Bridge, the garden of Tenryu-ji Temple, and the bamboo grove) and Sagano (Jojakko-ji Temple, Nison-in Temple, and Gio-ji Temple). Unfortunately, the weather was rainy, and at times it rained quite heavily. The autumn foliage they had been looking forward to had only just begun, but because of the rain there were fewer crowds in Sagano, allowing us to proceed smoothly through the tour. The group especially liked the Sogenchi Garden at Tenryu-ji Temple and the moss garden at Gio-ji Temple, with the Sogenchi Garden being a particular favorite overall. It was a shame that the tour took place in the rain, and since the autumn foliage in Sagano had only just started, I was sorry that I could not show the guests the colors at their very best.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto~Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)220JPY
    Section 2TrainShijo (Kyoto Municipal)~Arashiyama (Hankyu Line)240JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama (Keifuku Line)~Randen Tenjingawa250JPY
    Section 4SubwayUzumasa Tenjingawa~Kyoto260JPY
    Total970JPY

    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 !

    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.…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Harajuku

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Outer Market & Harajuku

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 9:20 Imperial Palace / in front of Nijubashi Bridge
    • 10:30 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 11:30 Shibuya
    • 12:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 13:00 Harajuku
    • 13:20 Tour ends at Harajuku

    Title: What's a Rainy-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They had arrived in Japan a couple of days earlier, and the previous day they had visited Asakusa, Ueno, and Tokyo Skytree. The tour took place in rain throughout the day, but we began with an explanation of the Tokyo Station building near their hotel. They seemed surprised to learn that the Imperial Palace was located nearby. The concept of Japan's imperial lineage was rather difficult for them to grasp, but as I explained Japanese history—particularly the events from the Edo period to the Meiji Restoration—they seemed to gain a certain level of understanding. Understanding exactly why the imperial line has continued to this day remained challenging for them, but later at Meiji Shrine, when I explained the differences between Buddhism and Shinto and the influence each has had on Japanese culture, they said it made much more sense. At the Shibuya crossing, where we stopped along the way, the guests appeared to enjoy taking many photographs. They said they had really wanted to visit this spot. Finally, I guided them to Omotesando, where there was a café they had wanted to visit, and we concluded the tour there.

    Hello and welcome to Tokyo!

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 08:25 Meet up@Hotel Ueno Tokyo
    • 2. 08:35 Travel∶Subway
    • 3. 08:55 Stay@Sensoji Temple
    • 4. 10:00 Travel∶Subway
    • 5. 10:30 Stay@Nezu Shrine
    • 6. 11:20 Travel∶Subway
    • 7. 11:50 Stay@Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    • 8. 13:05 Travel∶Subway
    • 9. 13:40 Lunch@Aen
    • 10. 14:35 Stay@Shinjuku Golden Gai, Kabukicho
    • 11. 15:00 Disband@JR Shinjuku Station East Exit

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Full-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They had originally planned to travel elsewhere in Asia, but their flight was canceled due to a typhoon, so they moved up their schedule and came to Japan instead. Because of this, they had not yet decided which spots they wanted to visit, so I listened to their preferences and helped plan the route before the tour began. I had initially intended to include Ueno Park in the itinerary, but since they had already walked there the previous day, I first guided them to Senso-ji Temple and then headed west. Both Nezu Shrine and Koishikawa Korakuen Garden were well received. In particular, at Koishikawa Korakuen Garden, a musician was rehearsing for a concert at the adjacent Tokyo Dome, and the guests enjoyed the contrast between the serene Japanese garden and the powerful music that could be heard. For lunch I had considered the restaurant inside Koishikawa Korakuen Garden, but it was quite crowded, so I took them to a Japanese restaurant in Shinjuku that I often use. Since it was past peak time, we were seated right away, and they enjoyed the local food. After the tour, the guests wished to visit Shibuya, so I guided them around places such as Golden Gai in Shinjuku, then saw them off at JR Shinjuku Station to conclude the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassUeno~Asakusa900JPY
    Section 2Free PassAsakusa~Ueno-hirokoji0JPY
    Section 3Free PassYushima~Nezu0JPY
    Section 4Free PassNezu~Korakuen0JPY
    Section 5Free PassIidabashi~Shinjuku-nishiguchi0JPY
    Total900JPY

    Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
    I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
    I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
    One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
    Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
    I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

    Sep 29, 2026
    Y9791IZnicks
    Making the most of a rainy day
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Sam was a wonderful…

    Sep 25, 2026
    910lorig
    Best experience for a perfect day in Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Best…

    Sep 15, 2026
    R8612KOjanicea
    Highly recommend 👍
    Tripadvisor review: Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Sam, was amazing!!…

    Sep 1, 2026
    greasygrandpa
    First Day In Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our tour guide Sam was very knowledgeable…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Akihabara Electric Town

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Akihabara Electric Town

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet @ Hotel
    • 8:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 9:40 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 10:30 Asakusa (Nakamise, Senso-ji Temple, West Approach)
    • 11:50 Lunch @ Yoroiya Ramen
    • 12:40 Ueno (Kiyomizu Kannon-do, Hanazono Inari Shrine, Ueno Toshogu Shrine)
    • 13:40 Akihabara Electric Town
    • 14:00 Disperse @ Akihabara Station

    Title: What Is a Rainy-Day Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, Shibuya, Asakusa, and Akihabara The guests were visiting from North America. One of them had been to Japan about ten years earlier, but only for a few days, so this time they took their time and even traveled as far as Kyoto. They enjoy Japanese food in general, and are especially fond of sushi, ramen, and wagyu beef. Although it rained that day, they cheerfully toured Meiji Shrine, Shibuya, Asakusa, and Akihabara. The ramen we had for lunch had a flavor quite different from tonkotsu, and they were very satisfied with it. They also seemed to enjoy anime, so we walked around Akihabara, and I introduced some popular shops before we said goodbye.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku~Shibuya150JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya~Asakusa260JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa~Ueno180JPY
    Section 5SubwayUeno~Suehirocho (Tokyo)180JPY
    Total920JPY

    Hello,
    I’m Rumi.Welcome to Japan!!
    I’m a government-licensed guide in the Tokyo area.
    I’m so excited to have a chance to show you my favorite places in Tokyo.
    Tokyo is a fantastic city with many aspects like history,culture and food.
    What interests you about Tokyo?
    What kind of Japanese food would you like to try?
    I’ll take you to various places according to your request.
    My favorite spot is Meiji Shrine.
    It’s so peaceful that I’m sure you like it.
    I really like to talk with foreigners about various topics.So, I love my job.
    I look forward to meeting and guiding you soon.

    Sep 29, 2026
    Darrin_T
    Tokyo Tour with Rumi
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Local tour guide Rumi took…

    Sep 29, 2026
    anettesoegaardn
    Rumi Hosoya is a very good tour-guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our guide was Rumi…

    Sep 25, 2026
    Frances_K
    Rumi was a wonderful…
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Rumi was a wonderful guide that provided…

    Sep 19, 2026
    K6328IFcarolinel
    Tokyo highlights
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Had a great day
    Rumi was very…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Peace Park & Miyajima

    Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Peace Park & Miyajima

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Hotel Meet
    • 10:00 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 13:00 Lunch
    • 14:00 Miyajima
    • 17:00 Hotel Dismissal

    Title: What Is a Private Guided Tour of Hiroshima's Peace Park Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I welcomed guests visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. They were impressed by how clean and well-maintained the toilets in Japan are, including public restrooms. As forecast, it rained in the morning, but since it was expected to clear up in the afternoon, we first visited the Peace Memorial Park, where the tour centers mainly on indoor viewing. Since the guests were not native English speakers, I explained everything slowly and carefully, using illustrations and gestures as I usually do. They seemed to enjoy the tour in a calm and relaxed atmosphere throughout.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainIn front of the Atomic Bomb Dome~Miyajimaguchi Port240JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi~Nishi-Hiroshima330JPY
    Section 3BusNishi-Hiroshima Station (Koi) / Bon Bus~In front of the Atomic Bomb Dome240JPY
    Total810JPY

    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…

  • Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 09:00 Hotel tour start
    • Transfer: Hotel shuttle bus to Kanazawa Station
    • Transfer: Bus to Hashibacho
    • AM 09:45-10:45 Higashi Chaya District, Utasu Shrine
    • Transfer: Bus to Kenrokuen-shita
    • AM 11:15-PM12:00 Kenrokuen Garden tour
    • PM 12:00-12:45 Kanazawa Castle Park, viewing of Hishi Yagura, Sanjukken Nagaya, Hashizumemon Tsuzuki Yagura
    • Transfer: On foot, tour ends at Korinbo PM 13:00

    Title: What Can You See on a 4-Hour Private Walking Tour of Kanazawa? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were on their first trip to Japan, visiting from Europe. Since they planned to use the 9:15 shuttle service from the Hotel to Kanazawa Station, we spent time in the Hotel lobby talking about their previous travels in Japan. Following the instructions of the local travel agency, the plan was to visit the Higashi Chaya District, Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle Park, and the Nagamachi Samurai District all together. Before starting, I explained that in four hours it would only be possible to introduce the main highlights at Higashi Chaya and Nagamachi, and we began the tour on that basis. I suggested that they revisit places of particular interest in the afternoon on their own. Unfortunately it was rainy, and since we reached the Korinbo area near the Nagamachi Samurai District at close to 1:00 PM, I guided them around the area and then ended the tour. The guests mentioned they would first have a meal at the Daiwa Department Store in Korinbo. Even during four hours in the rain, they enjoyed the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKanazawa Station/Hokuriku Railroad Bus~Hashibacho/Hokuriku Railroad Bus210JPY
    Section 2BusHashibacho/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…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Kinkaku-ji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet
    • 11:05 Tour itinerary confirmation
    • 11:20 Shopping for umbrellas, etc.
    • 11:40 Nijo Castle
    • 13:00 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 14:25 Tour ends in Gion

    Title: What Is a Rainy-Day Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Japan Guide Agency Licensed Guide's Report The day before the tour, the guests contacted me asking to change the tour date because rain was forecast. However, the requested alternative date could not be accommodated, so the tour went ahead today in the rain. Because of this, I guided them to Nijo Castle, which had not originally been part of the plan. The guests were very pleased and complimented the suggestion, so I told them that rain is not so bad after all. Since they took many commemorative photos at various spots, the schedule ran behind, but I considered this a priority and did not say anything in particular about it. To save time, we traveled from Nijo Castle to Kinkaku-ji by taxi, but I was unable to guide them to Nanzen-ji afterward. Instead, I showed them the northern part of Gion and brought the tour to a close.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto City Hall~Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 2BusKinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus~Kitaoji Bus Terminal (Kitaoji Subway Station) / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3SubwayKitaoji~Sanjo (Kyoto)260JPY
    Total710JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kinkakuji Temple & Nishiki Market

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkakuji Temple & Nishiki Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 meeting at Kitaoji Station South Gate
    • 8:30 bus
    • 9:00 Kinkakuji Temple
    • 10:10 Bus
    • 10:20 Ryoanji Temple
    • 11:25 Bus
    • 11:50 Subway Imadegawa Station
    • 12:15 Nijo Castle
    • 13:30 Subway and walk
    • 14:00 Nishiki Market
    • 14:20 End of the Tour

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji, Ryoan-ji, Nijo Castle, and Nishiki Market The guests were a group visiting Japan from Oceania. They were a warm and cheerful group who enjoyed sharing photos taken by one member with everyone else. A travel agency had been arranging the itinerary and sharing it with the guests more than half a year in advance, which was a bit much, but the guests themselves were very gentle and courteous. On the day of the tour, they arrived before the start time, and we were able to carry out the tour without any trouble, which was great. It rained the whole day unfortunately, but the guests were pleased with Kinkaku-ji, Ryoan-ji, Nijo Castle, and Nishiki Market. Since we traveled by public transportation and they listened carefully to the explanations, each location felt rich and in-depth. Some of the guests each carried a goshuin (temple stamp) book, and they were delighted to collect the stamps from Kinkaku-ji and Ryoan-ji (I forgot to guide them to get one at Nijo Castle). At the final stop, Nishiki Market, I guided them through Daimaru to take a shortcut and avoid the rain, after which they wished to stroll around the market on their own. We took a commemorative photo and ended the tour. It was a very refined and pleasant group, and they were very easy to guide.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKitaoji Bus Terminal (Subway Kitaoji Station) / Kyoto City Bus~Kinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2BusKinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus~Ryoanji-mae / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3BusRyoanji-mae / Kyoto City Bus~Karasuma Imadegawa (Subway Imadegawa Station) / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4SubwayImadegawa~Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 5SubwayNijojo-mae~Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)220JPY
    Total1,130JPY

    “He was easy to talk to, friendly, and knowledgeable and even made sure we successfully navigated the public transit back to our hotel. If we are ever back in Kyoto, we’d love to book a tour with him again! ”

    “At every side we got an indepth explanation to any minor detail and every question we asked was answered and explained really well. It felt like a relaxing and wholesome walk through Kyoto even while it was pouring rain. We can absolutely recommend choosing Nabet!”

    “Nabet’s English is just perfect, he knows the way around sights, little streets and hidden secrets, he is very authentic…just a perfect tour!”

    Here are just a few of the many kind reviews I’ve received from the more than 100 groups I’ve guided through Kyoto and other cities.

    I’m deeply thankful for the chance to connect with my guests and contribute to a memorable tour experience!

    +Current Occupation+
    • Associate Professor specially appointed for Entrepreneurship Education and University-Based Startup Support
    • Management Consultant for SMEs and startups
    • Government-Licensed Interpreter Guide

    +Hobbies+
    Travel, music, sake, ice hockey, squash, watching soccer

    May 29, 2026
    Tamara M
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kyoto bei Nacht – faszinierende Einblicke in Kultur und Spiritualität
    Ich…

    Oct 21, 2025
    Jana_C
    4-hour private tour with Nabet was ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
    Viator review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing experience…

    Oct 16, 2025
    987kayeh
    Knowledgeable guide who was will to respond to our multiple questions
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Thankyou…

    Oct 16, 2025
    janiec555
    Significant sites in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nabet is an excellent guide. He explained Japanese…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel (10:00) -> Asakusa (10:30) -> Ginza/Yurakucho (12:30) -> Higashi-Ginza Station (14:45)
    • Since they plan to sightsee in the western Tokyo area on November 8th and 9th, it has been decided in advance to sightsee in the eastern area.

    What Can You See on a Private Tour of Asakusa and Ginza in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests had planned to explore western Tokyo on other days, so it had been decided in advance to focus on the eastern part of the city. We met at the hotel lobby on time, and after a brief mutual introduction, we headed to Asakusa. I recommended a no-deposit SUICA card, but since one of the guests had left their smartphone at the hotel, they purchased a PASMO card at Daimon Station before we set off for Asakusa. From the rooftop of the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, I gave an explanation of Senso-ji Temple and the surrounding Asakusa area. Next, after touring the Kaminarimon Gate, Nakamise shopping street, the main hall, and Asakusa Shrine, the guests wanted to rest after walking, so we took a short break at a cafe. I explained the differences between temples and shrines, and between Buddhism and Shinto. Around noon, we headed toward Ginza. We visited Ginza Mitsukoshi, the Nissan Gallery, the Kabukiza Theatre, Kyukyodo, and Itoya (where a few cards were purchased). Around 13:30, the guests wanted to eat something, so I looked for a restaurant, but everywhere had long waiting lines, so we moved toward the Yurakucho area. We had lunch together at a ramen shop. Around 14:45, I guided them to Higashi-Ginza Station, and the tour concluded. The guests mentioned that the 4-hour tour felt short and that a 6-hour tour might have been better.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShibuya~Onarimon290JPY
    Section 2SubwayDaimon (Tokyo)~Asakusa220JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Ginza210JPY
    Total720JPY

    I have lived in the US for about 12 years, after my MBA/MS, working for a Japanese American company in the Chicago area and a Wall Street investment bank in NYC that I continued to work in Tokyo for about 23 years till my retirement in 2016. After the retirement, I obtained a National Government Licensed Guide certificate and have guided over 100 times mostly in Tokyo and Kanagawa areas in 2023 thru 2025. My guide is tailored for each guest, accommodating guest request as I am very much flexible with the guiding spots. While I was in the US, I have obtained a permanent residency status (green card), and am also USCPA, Japan CFP and an intellectual property right administrator among others.