Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Arashiyama & JR Inari

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Arashiyama & JR Inari

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel
    • 10:30 Arashiyama > Bamboo craft shop > Kimono Forest
    • 11:00 Tenryu-ji Garden > Bamboo grove
    • 12:30 Okochi Sanso Villa
    • 13:30 JR Saga-Arashiyama
    • 14:00 JR Inari
    • Disband without guiding Inari

    What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour to Arashiyama and Fushimi Inari Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting Japan from Europe and Asia. Originally we had planned to visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, but since they wanted to see a bamboo grove, we decided to go to Arashiyama and finish at Fushimi Inari. At a bamboo craft shop, they bought a noren curtain. They seemed to thoroughly enjoy Tenryu-ji Temple, the bamboo grove, and Okochi Sanso Villa. At the end, they bought the tofu ice cream that I recommended and enjoyed the ice cream that doesn't fall off. I heard that they had originally become friends because some of the guests lived near the others. The weather was wonderful as well.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto Kawaramachi~Arashiyama (Hankyu Line)240JPY
    Section 2TrainSaga-Arashiyama~Inari240JPY
    Total480JPY

    Bye bye smart phone!! Let’s enjoy Japan without bothering to check up your phone all the time with not AI but a local guide like me. Hi, my name is Mimmy. You may think this sounds like a kitten’s name.
    I use this nickname because it sounds cute and easy to remember. However,
    I actually look rounded, a middle aged woman more like a yellow character of M&Mchocolate, which reminds you of my name easily when you see me.
    I was born in Osaka, went to school in Kobe, went to work in Kyoto and married but still live in Osaka. I am a local, native Osakan. My 3 children are all grown up and live separately except one son. Now I live with one son and a husband in suburbs of the Osaka city.
    I like travelling, walking around the town and anything new.
    I got my guide license in 2017 and started guiding after that. I wasn’t able to work during Covid period but start guiding in 2022 again. I guide Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Kobe and have experienced more than100 tours including bus tours.
    I would like to tell you about the itineraries I usually have in each area.
    In Osaka, we usually go to Osaka castle, Shinsekai and Dotonbori Namba area.
    I think most important part you should see is Dotonbori Namba in Osaka.
    This place is vibrant , energetic, full of 3D signs and different from any other place in Japan.
    In Kyoto, we cannot see all famous sightseeing spots in one day.
    It will be better to visit each area respectively. I recommend guests who come to Kyoto first time to visit East area, Kiyomizu Temple>Sannenzaka>Ninenzaka>Ishibeikouji>Yasaka shrine> Gion area. This area has an atmosphere of traditional old Kyoto. The most Kyoto like places which suit Kimono. You can rent Kimono in a lot of places around here.
    The second place I recommend you is West area: Golden temple and Arashiyama area where Bamboo forest , Tenryuji temple, mountains and a river. There are several nice gardens in this area. If you want to enjoy the nature quietly, you
    should come here when it is not crowded (Winter is the most quiet)
    In Nara which used to be a capital even older than Kyoto, we visit Todaiji Temple where a huge Buddha is sitting inside of one of the largest wooden hall and you can play with deer everywhere in Nara. Naramachi: a small town in this area is a local place where small interesting shops are.
    In Kobe, a port city, you can visit Japanese Sake breweries, Herb garden and the top of Mt.Rokko for viewing Kobe city. A small China town is there, too.

    Now I bet you want to leave home to explore somewhere else you do not know.
    Not only going to somewhere else, we can help you to do several experiences: making tea, making Japanese sweet, making Takoyaki(food), wearing Kimono, making food samples, attending a tea ceremony, throwing Shriken like Ninja, Using bow and arrow like Samurai, , , ,
    I am very happy indeed if I can help you find things impressive enough and have once in a life time experience during our tour.
    I am looking forward to sharing a good time with you.

    Mar 24, 2025
    Jennie_N
    Ask for Mimmy
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A must if visiting the first time. Will save…

    Mar 15, 2025
    Eric B
    Wonderful Osaka castle and tour
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mimmy was a wonderful…

    Mar 12, 2025
    williampP2709MA
    Amazing time in Osaka with Mimmy
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mimmy was an amazing tour guide!…

    Oct 30, 2024
    Niaz_M
    Great choice if you have limited time in Kyoto
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a…

  • (Deactivate)Kagoshima 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide & Bus

    (Deactivate)Kagoshima 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide & Bus

    Tour Itinerary

    • Tour start 9:00 → Sengan-en 9:45–12:20 → Lunch 12:30–13:00 → Xavier Park & Church 13:30–14:30 → Amami no Sato 15:00–16:00 → Return to port 16:30

    What Is a Rainy-Day Private Tour of Kagoshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Due to the rain, the plan to tour around Sakurajima was changed to a visit to Amami no Sato. At the first stop, Sengan-en, before entering, the guests suddenly said, "We have seen so many gardens in Kyoto, so maybe we don't need to go in." However, I explained the history and significance of Sengan-en, and after we entered and I guided them around while explaining, they became very interested and took many photos. In our earlier communication, the guests had said there was no need to stop for lunch, but they suddenly decided they wanted to have lunch, so we stopped at a family restaurant along the way. After that, at the request of the guests, we visited Xavier Church, and they were very pleased. At the final stop, Amami no Sato, they became interested in Oshima Tsumugi silk and enjoyed themselves. This tour was affected by bad weather, and the guests frequently requested changes to the sightseeing spots because of the rain, which was a bit challenging in Kagoshima, where there are few indoor sightseeing spots. In the end, however, I was glad that the guests were happy.

    Hi, I’m Yoshimura Chie, please call me Jiejie, I’ve been living in Kagoshima for 30years.
    I studied Japanese literature and history at grad school of Kagoshima University.
    I have been a tour guide and a translator for more than 25 years. I used to work for Japan Travel Company.
    Now, I’d like to get more communication and interaction with tourists, and show around more deep Kagoshima, so I decided to be a private tour guide. I’m familiar with not only Kagoshima’s history, culture and customs, some of which are not on the books (kind of legends, fairytales and so on), but also local delicious food and good restaurants, because I’m a foodie and gourmet. Are you interested in Japan’s history? Kagoshima is the birthplace of Japan’s Industrial Revolution, (which was then spread throughout Asia) .
    Do you know Samurai? It’s said there used be the most number of samurais living in Kagoshima. I assure that you will have a wonderful tour together with me.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you here in Kagoshima .

    很高兴在这里能够认识您。热烈欢迎光临日本,首先让我做个简单的自我介绍,我的名字叫吉村洁在中国的国立大学的观光学部毕业以后就到日本鹿儿岛大学大学院专攻了两年日本文学。毕业后我就在做翻译和导游的工作已经有20多年了,我对日本的历史文化还有习俗都非常的熟悉精通。我保证通过这次旅游您会对日本的历史、文化,还有美食等々都会有更深入的认识、更丰富的了解和更惊喜的体验。我会在风光明媚鸟语花香历史悠久的鹿児島为贵宾们做最好的导游服务。

  • Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour

    Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:00 Meet @ In front of Himeji Station Central Ticket Gate
    • 2. 09:10 @ Castle View
    • 3. 09:45 @ Himeji Castle
    • 4. 11:50 Light meal @ Otemon Chaya
    • 5. 12:10 @ Koko-en Garden
    • 6. 14:00 @ Mount Shosha Engyoji Temple (Maniden Hall, Daikodo Hall, Jogyodo Hall, Jikido Hall)
    • 7. 16:00 Dismissal @ Himeji Station

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Himeji Castle Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from Europe. We met at Himeji Station, and first went to the Castle View, where I explained an overview of Himeji Castle and the historical background of when it was built. After that, we purchased discount round-trip tickets for the bus and ropeway to the Shosha Ropeway at the Shinki Bus Center, then visited Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden, and Engyoji Temple on Mount Shosha, before returning to Himeji Station to end the tour. Although it was the first day of a three-day holiday weekend, because the tour started early at 9:00, we were able to move through Himeji Castle relatively smoothly. It rained for about ten minutes at Kokoen Garden, but the weather recovered afterward, and overall it was a good tour. The guests enjoyed the sightseeing while taking many photos.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusSchool for the Deaf・Koko-en Garden/Shinki Bus~Mount Shosha Ropeway/Shinki Bus320JPY
    Section 2JGA Pre-Approved FeeRound trip (from Shinosho Ropeway Summit Station~to below Maniden Hall)500JPY
    Section 3BusMount Shosha Ropeway/Shinki Bus~Himeji Station (North Exit)/Shinki Bus320JPY
    Total1,140JPY

    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…

  • Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 10:15 Tour starts from the hotel
    • Move by bus to Hashiba-cho
    • AM 10:45- 11:45 Higashi Chaya District, Utasu Shrine, Hakuichi, Gold Leaf Ice Cream
    • Move by bus to Kenrokuen-shita
    • PM 12:15- 13:00 Visit Kenrokuen Garden
    • PM 13:00-13:45 Visit Kanazawa Castle Park, Hishi Yagura, Gojukken Nagaya, Hashizumemon Tsuzuki Yagura
    • Move on foot to Korinbo, Daiwa
    • PM 14:00-14:50 Pharmacy and lunch at Daiwa
    • Move on foot to Nagamachi Samurai District area
    • PM 15:00-15:50 Visit Nomura Family, Takada Family, Ashigaru Museum
    • Move by bus to Kanazawa Station  PM 16:00 Tour ends

    How Does a Private Kanazawa Day Tour Go? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America on a trip to Japan. Since I had been unable to reach them before the day of the tour, I checked with the hotel concierge to confirm they were staying there, had them call the room, and met the guests in the lobby fifteen minutes later. As one of the guests had a cough, they wanted to stop by a pharmacy during the day, so during lunch at a department store in the Korinbo area, we stopped at a pharmacy where they purchased herbal medicine for the throat. There was heavy rain during the tour, but it fell mainly while we were inside the buildings of Kanazawa Castle and during lunch, so it did not affect the tour, and the guests enjoyed themselves.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKanazawa Station/Hokuriku Railroad Bus~Hashiba-cho/Hokuriku Railroad Bus210JPY
    Section 2BusHashiba-cho/Hokuriku Railroad Bus~Kenrokuen-shita・Kanazawa Castle/Hokuriku Railroad Bus210JPY
    Section 3BusKorinbo/Hokuriku Railroad Bus~Kanazawa Station/Hokuriku Railroad Bus210JPY
    Total630JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Hotel — 10:15 Hama Rikyu Gardens — 12:10 Nezu Museum — 14:10 Jimbocho — 15:00 The tour ended

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Hamarikyu Gardens, Nezu Museum, and Jimbocho The guests arrived in Tokyo in October, and the tour was requested for November 1. The initial requests were Meiji Shrine, the Nezu Museum, and the Jimbocho used-book district, though I expected the plan might change. As it turned out, the guests had already visited Meiji Shrine on a bus tour. Since they had not yet been to a Japanese garden, I suggested Hamarikyu Gardens, and we headed there. We were lucky with clear weather, and the guests greatly enjoyed the beautiful scenery and a matcha tea experience. As the Nezu Museum was expected to be crowded due to a new exhibition, I had the guests purchase tickets online in advance, so we were able to enter smoothly. One of the guests, formerly a university professor in a field related to religion, remarked that Japanese religion is fascinating, and another of the guests was very kind and gentle. On the train heading to Jimbocho, we came across a lost child, and with the guests' consent I looked after the child. Since there were five stops to our destination, I searched the train car promising the guests I would return, but could not find anyone accompanying the child, so with the guests' cooperation we got off at the next station. I asked the guests to sit and wait while I brought the child to the station office and returned right away. This unexpected situation took about ten minutes, but the guests were very cooperative and kind throughout. When we arrived, there were open-air book markets everywhere, and the guests were delighted, saying it was like paradise. We had lunch at a curry restaurant, and I was relieved when they said it was quite delicious. Although something unexpected happened this time, I was truly grateful that the guests were so kind and cooperative. On a personal note, I was happy when they asked whether I had ever been a teacher, saying that my way of explaining things was very easy to understand.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Ginza~Shimbashi180JPY
    Section 2SubwayShimbashi~Omotesando180JPY
    Section 3SubwayOmotesando~Jimbocho180JPY
    Total540JPY

    Hello, I’m Hizuru.
    I have a passion for sharing my knowledge and love for Japan with visitors from all over the world.
    After teaching English and Japanese to Elementary school and Junior high school students for about 15
    years, I got the National License of Guide and Interpreter in 2014 which allowed me to officially guide
    tourists around Japan.
    I have guided many tourists around Tokyo and its vicinities, helping them to discover the hidden gems of the
    city and learn about its rich history and traditions.
    Whether you’re interested in visiting historical landmarks, trying delicious Japanese cuisine, or experiencing
    the vibrant pop culture scene, I can tailor a tour suit your interests.
    My experience as a teacher greatly helped me in this role as I was able to efficiently communicate and engage
    with people from different backgrounds and cultures.
    I am dedicated to providing an unforgettable and insightful experience for all my guests.
    I look forward to welcoming you to in and around Tokyo and sharing the wonders of Japan with you.

    Oct 14, 2025
    vanessajK6787GS
    Great day out and about in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Hizuru was an absolute delight.…

    May 23, 2025
    Inspire25413313092
    Tokyo walking tour 2025
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sally did a great job putting together a…

    May 3, 2025
    davidfZ3537PI
    Great tour with Hizuru!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great private tour with Hizuru! Prior to the…

    Apr 17, 2025
    Sharon_F
    Sampling of everything in one day!
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great sampling of lots of different…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet at Hotel Nihonbashi Premier
    • 2. 9:45 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 3. 10:45 Meiji Shrine
    • 4. 12:15 Asakusa
    • 5. 13:00 Lunch (Asakusa Umaimon Azuma)
    • 6. 14:00 Tokyo Skytree
    • 7. 15:00 Disband at Tokyo Metro Oshiage Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They had arrived in Japan a couple of days apart, with some of the guests coming from another destination in Asia before joining the rest. While some of the guests had visited Japan several times before, others were visiting Japan for the first time. On this private tour of Tokyo, [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guided the group to Shinjuku Gyoen, Meiji Shrine, Asakusa, and Tokyo Skytree. They enjoyed taking photos at each location. There were a wide range of questions, covering not only Japanese culture and history but also politics and economics. Walking was not a problem for the group throughout the day. Although rain had been forecast for the afternoon, it held off until the end of the tour, and we were able to enjoy the view from Tokyo Skytree. At the end, I explained how to get back to the hotel from Oshiage Station on the Tokyo Metro, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayMitsukoshimae~Shinjuku-gyoemmae210JPY
    Section 2TrainSendagaya~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Asakusa260JPY
    Section 4TrainAsakusa~Tokyo Skytree160JPY
    Total780JPY

    Hello, I’m Haruhiko Yokota, a certified tour guide based in Tokyo and a top-ranked guide registered with JGA Inc. Please feel free to call me Haru.
    I’ve been living in Tokyo for about 30 years and conducted close to 200 tours between 2023 and 2025. I’m very familiar with most major sightseeing spots in and around Tokyo, ranging from traditional temples and shrines to modern attractions. I also enjoy traveling throughout Japan, which has given me extensive knowledge of popular destinations across the country.
    I’m happy to customize your tour to match your interests and preferences. If you have any requests or questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. I’ll do my best to make your tour both enjoyable and memorable!

    Sep 29, 2026
    S77OGjoyh
    Excellent Guided walking tour of temple, shrine and outdoor food market Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day…

    Sep 16, 2026
    Kerry_M
    10/10 tour with Haruhiko Yokota
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We toured Tokyo with Haruhiko Yokota…

    Jul 13, 2026
    529gregj
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Haru is an excellent guide in Tokyo
    Haru (Haruhiko…

    Jul 12, 2026
    Felice R
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Touring gardens in Tokyo with the perfect guide , Haru…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel
    • 9:40 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:00 Imperial Palace
    • 12:00 Asakusa

    Title: What Does a First-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and Asakusa The guests were visitors from North America, visiting Japan for the first time. Having just arrived the previous night, they wanted a basic itinerary for their first day of touring. In central Tokyo, they requested Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and Asakusa, and I guided them accordingly. After Meiji Shrine, they wanted to exchange cash, so I took them to Takeshita Street. Since many guests are unable to exchange money at the airport on their first day, I realized it would be wise to keep a few reliable places for cash exchange in mind. Due to time constraints, we only visited Nijubashi Bridge, but they planned to visit the East Gardens on their own. Afterward, I guided them to Asakusa. A cute dog happened to be strolling around dressed in a kimono, and they took many photos. In addition to the main Nakamise shopping street, I also guided them along Denboin Street and other areas. After the tour, they planned to head to Ueno to visit the park and the Tokyo National Museum, and if they still had energy, to go shopping in Ginza.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassShibuya~Meiji-jingumae900JPY
    Section 2Free PassMeiji-jingumae~Nijubashi0JPY
    Section 3Free PassHibiya~Asakusa0JPY
    Total900JPY

    Hello! My name is Ayaka.
    I originally come from Osaka, but now live in Saitama . I have a 19-year-old daughter and a 16-year-old son.
    My hobbies are cooking, baking sweets, playing the piano and watching movies.

    On weekdays, I work as a part-time English teacher at a boys’ junior high school and a high school. Since 2023, I have started working as a tour guide on weekends and long vacations. It is mainly private tours for small groups.

    I strongly believe that it is my calling to tell the greatest points of Japan to many foreigners. Through my guiding, I will do my best to give you as good an impression of Japan as possible.

    Mar 28, 2026
    Destination424937
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Japan
    Ayaka was knowledgeable and she took us to some historical highlights of Tokyo .

    Mar 19, 2035
    L9685HWdianan
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing Tokyo Tour with Ayaka ? Kind, Knowledgeable & Memorable Experience
    We…

    Oct 10, 2025
    Maxkerry
    Great day in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    An excellent day with Ayaka in Tokyo. She…

    Oct 4, 2025
    D
    Donna_S
    Private tour of Tokyo with Ayaka of Japan Guide Agency
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very…

  • Hokkaido in One Day: Goryokaku Tower & Kitano Area

    Hokkaido in One Day: Goryokaku Tower & Kitano Area

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hakodate Port Terminal
    • 9:25 Goryokaku Tower
    • 10:30 Hakodate Morning Market
    • 11:10 Lunch at Hakodate Donburi Yokocho
    • 12:25 Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse
    • 13:45 Kitano Area
    • 14:30 Return to Hakodate Port Terminal to end the tour

    What's a Rainy-Day Private Tour of Hakodate Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. From the morning there was very strong rain and wind, making it impossible to walk with an umbrella. Since the weather was expected to gradually improve from the afternoon, we discussed the situation and spent the morning sightseeing indoors. We had originally planned to take the train, but just walking to the train stop would have left us soaked, so we reluctantly took a taxi to Goryokaku Tower. I had hoped the weather would improve while I was showing them around the tower, but it did not. We gave up on strolling through Goryokaku Park and took a taxi to the Hakodate Morning Market. After showing them around inside the market building, we had an early lunch. During lunch the rain finally eased, so from there we took the streetcar to the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses. After a little shopping, we walked to the Motomachi area and took photos at a spot with a great view. We then took the streetcar again back to the Hakodate Port Terminal, ending the tour. The photo was taken at Hachiman-zaka slope in the Motomachi area. We were not blessed with good weather, but we managed to complete the tour safely.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherHakodate Station Front~Crossroad210JPY
    Section 2OtherSuehirocho~Hakodate Station Front210JPY
    Total420JPY

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

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

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

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

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

  • Hokkaido in One Day: Hakodate cruise terminal

    Hokkaido in One Day: Hakodate cruise terminal

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hakodate ART, CULTURE, & HISTORICAL Tour
    • Hakodate city is a gateway to Hokkaido.
    • You can enjoy sight-seeing through the city with public transportations or taxi.
    • 1.Hakodate morning market
    • 2.Kanamori redbrick warehouse
    • 3.Mt.Hakodate ropeway
    • 4.Goryokaku fort
    • Meeting Point
    • 11:00 Hakodate cruise terminal
    • Hakodate morning market
    • Stroll around Hakodate morning market with guide.
    • You can find Freshly caught sea food such as squid, snow crab, hairy crab salmon, tuna, scallop etc.
    • Also fresh fruits, dried sea food, sushi bar, squid catching.
    • 12:20
    • Kanamori redbrick warehouse
    • In this red brick warehouses, you can enjoy shopping, eating locally populars.
    • Around this spot, we have some coffee shops such as Starbucks coffee, Komeda coffee and local famous Lucky Pierrot.
    • 13:20
    • Mt.Hakodate
    • Magnificent view from the top of the mountain.
    • You can see even Honshu island beyond the Tsugaru strait which is the international strait.
    • In the summit building, there are a souvenir shop, a snack stand, a restaurant and a cafe-bar.
    • 14:40
    • Goryokaku fort
    • From a 90 meter high tower, you can witness the whole view of the Goryokaku fortress where the last civil war was fought between shogunate force and new government force.
    • Lunch can be enjoyed near or in the Goryokaku facility.
    • There are fancy Japanese food restaurant, curry restaurant in the tower building.
    • Nereby, there are Soba and tempra restaurant, local famous ramen restaurant, Sushi restaurant and very popular humberger shop named Lucky Pierrot.
    • 17:00
    • Ending Point
    • Hakodate cruise terminal

    【What's a Private Hakodate Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report】 It was, unfortunately, a rainy day in Hakodate. During the tour, one of the guests was intently focused on their smartphone and did not seem to be listening to my guiding. It turned out they were concentrating on the World Series, "Dodgers vs. Blue Jays." The moment the local team's victory was decided, there was a shout of joy and a big smile. The taxi was filled with delight. "Tomorrow you'll be sightseeing in Aomori! I'm from Aomori. Shohei Ohtani is from Oshu City in Iwate Prefecture, which is located just south of Aomori." "Really? I'd love to go there!" For lunch, since the guests loved ramen, we enjoyed the local specialty at the restaurant known as the birthplace of Hakodate shio (salt) ramen. It was truly delicious!! "The origins of Hakodate's salt ramen begin with a clear bowl that arrived in this port town. In Hakodate, where the opening of the port brought people and cultures together, Chinese cooks introduced a clear 'chintan' broth noodle soup. Its light, clean salty flavor eventually took root as the ordinary ramen of Hakodate."

    My name is Tomohiko Kudo.
    I live in Aomori city.
    I already visited more than 30 nations so far.
    After official retirement from the public officer, I could have the Japanese Government Licensed Guide Certificate and am nowadays very pleased to guide overseas tourists all over the world.
    Did you know that the Fuji apple is not from Mt.Fuji…but is actually from Aomori Prefecture’ Fujisaki town. Aomori is proud of the biggest apple product in
    Japan. We provide 40 apple-pie restaurants to guests.
    Let’s enjoy real Japanese culture and history with me. I would enjoy with you real Samuri history, Kimono culture, local traditional festivals, castle,
    Japanese garden, temple, shrine, Japanese tea ceremony, food and Sake.
    I often go to the local sea food and vegetable markets and eat fresh foods and would love to show you some secret, hidden restaurants that only Aomori locals know about – let’s go on an adventure together.
    If you like sushi and fresh seafood, let me introduce to Nokkedon ?
    What is it? Come to Aomori and find out! I am waiting for you.

    Jun 2, 2025
    413maryannb
    Tomohiko organized our day beautifully! The car was immaculate, the driver skilled. We thoroughly enjoyed our day!
    Tripadvisor review: Aomori Full-Day…

    Apr 30, 2025
    Jacqueline_F
    Great Guide, great tour
    Viator review: Aomori Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    We experienced the wonderful sites of Aomori which…

    Dec 30, 2024
    Scenic33296385055
    Warm and professional guide
    Tripadvisor review: Aomori Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mr. Kudo-san is very professional, meticulate and kind…

    Aug 3, 2024
    Monika R
    Fun and informative tour – great tour guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Aomori Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    We were 3…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Rinnoji Gomado Hall

    Tochigi in One Day: Rinnoji Gomado Hall

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet @ Fairfield Marriott Lobby
    • 9:15 Rinnoji Shoyoen Garden, Sanbutsudo Hall
    • 11:00 Rinnoji Gomado Hall (Goma Fire Ritual Viewing)
    • 11:20 Toshogu Shrine
    • 12:30 Lunch @ Maruhide Shokudo
    • 13:30 Kanmangafuchi Abyss
    • 14:00 Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park
    • 15:30 Tour Ends @ Fairfield Marriott

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Nikko Like for Overseas Guests? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. They were already familiar with Japan and had lived in or worked in Japan in the past, so they knew the country well. They were especially fond of nature, and before coming to Nikko they had enjoyed rural scenery, driving a rental car from Tokyo and staying in Daigo Town in Ibaraki. This time they were also staying at a hotel some distance from Nikko Station, but because I was able to ride with them in their rental car, the day was very efficient. Driving in Japan is on the left, the same as in Oceania, so they were used to it and drove very carefully, which gave a great sense of security. Some of the guests had visited Toshogu Shrine before but the memory had faded. This time they listened with great interest to the story of why Toshogu was built and about its carvings. They said that last time they had looked at everything without understanding it, but this time they understood it well and truly enjoyed it. The guests were very friendly, and we spent a wonderful day together.

    Hello! My name is Yumi. The Nikko area, Nasu area, in Tochigi Prefecture, and Aizu and Shirakawa area in Fukushima prefecture, where I will be guiding you, are not only surrounded by beautiful nature in all four seasons but are also full of historical attractions. Nikko, in particular, is a great place to learn about the culture and history that has shaped Japan to this day. In order for you to truly enjoy your day, I am flexible to your wishes and will prepare your day to be a great day. Because I am a local guide, you will surely see some sights that are not in the guidebooks. Is local food one of your favorite parts of your trip? I am also a sushi-making instructor for foreigners, so food is one of my specialties. I am also a certified sake navigator. Why don’t you come and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with me?

    Aug 24, 2026
    arzed
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A perfect day!
    My family and I had an…

    Jul 1, 2026
    laine164
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day!
    We had a wonderful time exploring Nikko.
    Our friendly…

    Apr 7, 2026
    V2097LInickd
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Guide Yumi Highlights Nikko on walking tour
    Our 16,000 step tour…

    Apr 4, 2026
    O4367MVkarenv
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fantastic day in Nikko
    We had a fantastic day with Yumi. She…