Category: Uncategorized

  • Yamanashi: Fugaku Wind Cave by bus

    Yamanashi: Fugaku Wind Cave by bus

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Take a taxi from the hotel to Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine, and pray upon arrival.
    • 10:00 Head to Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine (Chureito Pagoda) by taxi. On the way, take photos of Mt. Fuji at the Kanadorii (Golden Torii).
    • 11:03 From Shimoyoshida Station to Kawaguchiko Station by Fujikyu Railway.
    • 11:20 After arrival, walk to the Kachikachiyama Ropeway. The waiting line was long and we wondered what to do, but eventually rode it.
    • Around 13:00 Return to Kawaguchiko Station and have Hoto for lunch.
    • 14:10 Head to Fugaku Wind Cave by bus. 
    • 15:00 After arrival, the Wind Cave, Aokigahara Jukai Nature Trail, and Narusawa Ice Cave.
    • 16:15 Return from the Ice Cave to the Wind Cave by bus.
    • 16:29 Return from the Wind Cave to Kawaguchiko Station by bus.
    • 17:30 Arrive at Kawaguchiko Station, disband.

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tour Around Mount Fuji? A Licensed Guide's Report Since the weather was clear, the guests spent time right up until the last minute deciding whether to go to the 5th Station of Mount Fuji or to skip it and instead add more destinations, ultimately choosing the latter. I believe they were satisfied with each place we visited, though they did not seem to be the type to take many photos. At the Chureito Pagoda, one remarked, "I wonder why this place is more crowded than Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine." At the ropeway, perhaps mindful of the time, they tried to line up in the row just below. During the wind cave, the Aokigahara walk, and the ice cave, I gave explanations while walking at a somewhat brisk pace, so their reactions were not entirely clear. Still, I believe they enjoyed themselves.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassKawaguchiko Station~Fugaku Wind Cave1,500JPY
    Section 2Free PassNarusawa Ice Cave~Fugaku Wind Cave0JPY
    Section 3Free PassFugaku Wind Cave~Kawaguchiko Station0JPY
    Section 4TrainShimoyoshida~Kawaguchiko310JPY
    Total1,810JPY

    I have worked as a diplomat for 48 years until last year(2024), so I think I am good at explaining anything about Japan in English. Though I’m a novice as tour guide, l promise that I will make detailed and thorough preparations for guiding you and to make your trip smooth and enjoyable. I myself like to experience various means of transportation and interested in local culture, history and food. You may be a bit concerned about my age(71 years old), but I am quite fit for work. Just to prove this I wish to say that I played 5 rounds of golf this summer month of August, 2025.

    Apr 16, 2026
    127dougg
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very enjoyable to have a day being toured about with no…

    Oct 25, 2025
    Julia_G
    Tokyo gardens and museums.
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Toshi is an excellent guide. He crafted a…

    Oct 14, 2025
    M
    Manohar_S
    Superb must see
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very scenic and beautiful trip… Mr Toshi…

    Oct 7, 2025
    Robert_H
    Lots of walking. We are…
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Lots of walking. We are…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shibuya Scramble Crossing & Roppongi Hills

    Tokyo in One Day: Shibuya Scramble Crossing & Roppongi Hills

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Meet at Citadines Harbour Front Yokohama
    • 9:00 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 9:45 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 11:35 Rikugien Garden
    • 12:25 Lunch @Dandan Men Kuhosei
    • 13:15 Ueno Park, National Museum of Western Art front garden, Ueno Toshogu Shrine, Kiyomizu Kannon-do Temple
    • 14:15 Asakusa (Skytree photo)
    • 15:45 Roppongi Hills
    • 15:50 Disband at Roppongi Hills

    Title: What Is a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shibuya, the Imperial Palace, and Asakusa The weather was fine, and the tour proceeded pleasantly. All members of the group were steady on their feet, so we moved ahead faster than scheduled. We first visited the requested Shibuya Scramble Crossing, but the guests were not particularly interested and reacted with a "let's move on," so we headed to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. After taking our time at Rikugien Garden, we went to a requested ramen shop, but the planned shop was full, so I guided them to a lesser-known place instead, which turned out to be decent and enjoyable. Since we were ahead of schedule with time to spare, I added Ueno Park, which had not been on the original plan. The guests were delighted by the beauty of Ueno Toshogu Shrine. In Asakusa, when we reached Hozomon Gate, they said, "This is enough here," and we headed to Roppongi Hills. These were guests who did not visit for worship, which was a first for me. I received a tip at the end of the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainNihon-odori~Shibuya540JPY
    Section 2Free PassShibuya~Takebashi700JPY
    Section 3Free PassOtemachi~Komagome0JPY
    Section 4TrainKomagome~Ueno170JPY
    Section 5Free PassUeno~Asakusa0JPY
    Section 6Free PassAsakusa~Roppongi0JPY
    Total1,410JPY

    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…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Station

    Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Hiroshima Station ~ To Miyajima (JR & ferry)
    • 11:20 Arrive at Miyajima ~ Itsukushima Shrine ~ Senjokaku sightseeing
    • 13:00 Lunch (okonomiyaki)
    • 14:20 Miyajimaguchi ~ Atomic Bomb Dome (JR & Hiroden)
    • 15:00 Atomic Bomb Dome ~ Peace Park sightseeing
    • 16:30 Cafe time ~ Don Quijote
    • 17:30 To Hiroshima Station (Hiroden)
    • 17:50 Hiroshima Station Shinkansen Exit, End

    Title: What Is a Private Day Trip from Kyoto to Hiroshima and Miyajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe on a day trip from Kyoto. Since they held JR Passes, the day proceeded smoothly. They were a cheerful group and thoroughly enjoyed Miyajima and Hiroshima before heading back. On Miyajima they had okonomiyaki, which they loved so much that they said they would search for a how-to video and make it at home. We walked slowly through the Peace Memorial Park while I explained the sites, but they chose not to visit the museum, saying they did not want to feel any more saddened. Instead, they said they would rather have a beer, so we took a break at a café, and they bought a suitcase at Don Quijote that a grandchild could ride on. They mentioned they would be sightseeing in Arashiyama the next day. Wherever they went, they seemed to be enjoying themselves to the fullest.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi~Genbaku Dome-mae570JPY
    Section 3TrainKamiyacho-higashi~Hiroshima Station240JPY
    Total1,230JPY

    Hello! I was born and raised in Hiroshima. For many years, I accompanied Japanese tourists domestically and abroad to create enjoyable travel experiences. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, I’ve started to focus on rediscovering my hometown and its charm. This has inspired me to share the wonders of Hiroshima with more foreign visitors, and I’ve shifted my career to work as a local guide, welcoming you.
    I love the Japanese proverb “ichigo ichie” (一期一会)(once in a lifetime opportunity)
    It means to cherish each moment and every encounter, as they are unique and irreplaceable. I always look forward to meeting wonderful people with excitement and anticipation. As I guide you through Hiroshima, I hope we can share our many thoughts and deepen our mutual understanding.
    I would be happy to help make your trip to Hiroshima the best experience possible!
    I have a wide range of interests, including dancing, doing yoga, horseback riding, and farming. Whenever something sparks my curiosity, I can’t help but give it a try!
    Would you like to spend a wonderful time together?

    Aug 10, 2026
    Johanna_B
    Viator review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Organized & Educational Day
    We had a wonderful day…

    Jul 14, 2026
    sophiau124
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Review for Hiroshima / Miyajima Guide MIA
    My HIROSHIMA…

    Jul 11, 2026
    Nomad07231625628
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima Peace Memorial 2-Hour Tour with Licensed Guide
    A fantastic tour
    Mai’s tour of Hiroshima was absolutely stellar! She…

    Jul 5, 2026
    Henry_D
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mai was a great guide….
    Mai was a great…

  • Hiroshima in Half a Day: JR Hiroshima Station

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: JR Hiroshima Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:00 Pick up at the hotel, take a taxi to Hiroshima Station
    • 7:22 JR Hiroshima Station
    • 7:51 Arrive at JR Miyajimaguchi
    • 8:20 Arrive at Miyajima
    • 8:50 Mount Misen Ropeway boarding area
    • 9:30 Shishiiwa Observatory
    • 10:30 Descend the Mount Misen Ropeway
    • 11:00 Guide activity ends at Itsukushima Shrine

    Can You Do a Private Day Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, who chose Hiroshima and Miyajima as the final destination of their stay in Japan. They had already visited the Peace Memorial Park and the museum the previous day, and asked many thoughtful questions based on what they had learned there. As nature lovers, the guests' main goal on Miyajima was to take the Mount Misen ropeway and, from the Shishiiwa Observatory at the top, to gaze out at the islands of the Seto Inland Sea and enjoy their natural beauty. To avoid the crowds, I revised the itinerary for an early morning start, and we were able to enjoy a relatively quiet Mount Misen.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMiyajimaguchi~Hiroshima Station420JPY
    Section 2TrainHiroshima Station~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Total840JPY

    Welcome to Hiroshima.
    My name is Hiroshi Tsuji, a licensed guide based in Hiroshima and Miyajima. My family has been connected to Miyajima for more than 300 years, and I am pleased to share the history, culture, and daily life of this unique island with visitors from around the world. Please feel free to call me Hiroshi.
    With a background in outdoor sports—including rock climbing, scuba diving, and long-distance triathlons—I have completed several Ironman races abroad. I studied in Kyoto and later worked in management at a publicly listed company, which allowed me to live in many different regions of Japan and develop a deeper understanding of the country’s diverse culture and history.
    In Hiroshima, I guide guests through the Peace Memorial Park, including the Atomic Bomb Dome, and share perspectives on the history of Hiroshima and modern Japan.
    In Miyajima, I introduce Itsukushima Shrine, Mount Misen, the island’s beautiful scenery, and its local cuisine. As someone whose family has been connected to Miyajima for generations, I also enjoy sharing local insights and experiences that offer a more personal connection to the island’s culture and way of life.
    I look forward to welcoming you to Hiroshima and Miyajima.
    Hiroshi

    Sep 25, 2026
    philiprA2432ZA
    Hiroshima & Miyajima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Our guide Hiroshi picked us up…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Sygeplejersken78
    The best guide – Thank you 🙏🇯🇵🇩🇰
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    We had…

    Sep 21, 2026
    Pioneer19650761736
    You Won’t Regret Booking with Hiroshi
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had the most amazing…

    Sep 11, 2026
    stephanie782022
    Fantastic tour experience
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had such a fantastic day with Hiroshi,…

  • Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • ① 08:00 Meet at Hotel Tokyu
    • ② 08:05 Itinerary explanation and about the history of Kyoto
    • ③ 08:30 Travel (from Osaka to Kyoto)
    • ④ 09:50 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • ⑤ 11:15 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • ⑥ 12:50 Stroll through Nishiki Market・Lunch
    • ⑦ 13:30 Pontocho・Gion・Yasui Konpira Shrine
    • ⑧ 14:50 Sannenzaka
    • ⑨ 15:10 Kiyomizu-dera Temple~Ninenzaka
    • ⑩ 16:10 Head to Kyoto Station
    • ⑪ 17:00 Disband at the hotel

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Gion and the Imperial Palace The guest was a visitor from North America, in Japan to accompany family who were working during the daytime, spending the days sightseeing alone. This was the guest's first time visiting Japan, and indeed the first time visiting any country in Asia, having stopped in Nagasaki and Fukuoka before coming to Kyoto. The guest mentioned feeling a little sad that the trip was almost over, planning to return home from Tokyo the day after next. This itinerary was decided according to the guest's own wishes. In particular, the guest very much wanted to see Gion, and while there was also interest in experiencing matcha and Japanese sweets at a tea ceremony, Gion took priority, which shaped today's itinerary. For a first-time visitor to Japan, learning about the history of the emperors at the Kyoto Imperial Palace was a great fit. I explained as much as I could about the emperors of the Nara and Heian periods, the emperors after the rise of shoguns, the emperors during the militarist era of Japan, and the nature of the imperial family in the Heisei and Reiwa eras. Also, as many guests do, this guest listened attentively to questions about the coexistence of Shinto and Buddhism and how these two traditions coexist in our everyday lives. Since it was just one guest today, I was able to take my time speaking and explaining everywhere — on the train, in the taxi, and elsewhere. Today was a fine day after a long while, warm with a cool breeze, making for a very pleasant day.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHonmachi~Shin-Osaka240JPY
    Section 2OtherShin-Osaka~Kyoto1,450JPY
    Section 3OtherKyoto~Shin-Osaka1,450JPY
    Section 4TrainShin-Osaka~Honmachi240JPY
    Total3,380JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1300 Hotel Tavinos Asakusa (10 min from Ginza Line Tawaramachi Station) Meeting Guide within Sensoji Temple grounds
    • 1445 Tokyo Station Marunouchi Building Matsugui Gyoko-dori Avenue Tatsumi Yagura Turret
    • 1555 Meiji Jingu Shrine visit Takeshita Street
    • 1710 Shibuya Hachiko Statue Scramble Crossing Explanation of the route to PARCO and guidance to Ginza Line Shibuya Station, then disband

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Afternoon Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Before arriving in Tokyo, they had spent about two weeks traveling through Hiroshima, Osaka, Kyoto, Kanazawa, Yamagata, Akita, and Aomori, and were scheduled to return home in two days. In Yamagata and Akita, they had completed an 80 km trail. They arrived in Tokyo this morning, and the guiding request was for the afternoon. One of the guests had previously visited Japan through work connections, while for the other it was their first visit to Japan. Since their accommodation was along Kototoi-dori, I guided them from Hanayashiki toward Senso-ji Temple, the reverse of my usual route. There were more questions than expected about Buddhism and Shinto, which took some time. At a knife shop, they purchased a kitchen knife. For the other shops, I recommended that they take their time to browse the following day. The Imperial Palace Outer Garden went smoothly. They said they would like to see the East Gardens the next day. Since Meiji Shrine closes at 4:40, the visit was quite rushed, but they were able to see the chrysanthemum festival and were very pleased. In Shibuya, they wanted to visit shops such as the Pokémon store, so I let them know about PARCO and MAGNET. Afterward, they mentioned wanting to visit places like Golden Gai in Shinjuku. I explained how to get there, but when I mentioned that a similar experience could probably be had at Center Gai as well, they headed straight there after we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAsakusa~Ueno180JPY
    Section 2TrainUeno~Tokyo170JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijubashimae~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku~Shibuya150JPY
    Total710JPY

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

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

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

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

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

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

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

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

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

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

    Sep 24, 2026
    Leslie_R
    Good tour on first day
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Ted, our guide was…

    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

    Jun 26, 2026
    ann r
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Educational with kind, generous guide
    My teenage sons and I learned…

    Jun 14, 2026
    141yunb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
    We…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • ①10:00 Meet at the hotel
    • ②10:30 Meiji Shrine
    • ③12:00 Shibuya
    • ④13:15 Asakusa/Senso-ji Temple
    • ⑤14:15 Lunch at Gonpachi
    • ⑥16:00 teamLab Planets Toyosu

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shibuya, Meiji Shrine, and Asakusa The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time, having arrived the previous night. They planned to stay in Tokyo before continuing on to Kyoto and Osaka, and today was their first day of sightseeing. Instead of one site that had been included in the advance plan, we stopped by the Shibuya Crossing, which seemed likely to interest the guests. They very much enjoyed the atmosphere of the area and also strolled through Center Gai. At Meiji Shrine and Senso-ji Temple, they enjoyed collecting goshuin stamps, drawing omikuji fortunes, and writing on ema plaques, followed by a lunch that had been reserved at a restaurant in Asakusa. Afterward, I saw them off right on time at teamLab Planets in Toyosu, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHibiya~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 2TrainHarajuku~Shibuya150JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya~Akihabara210JPY
    Section 4OtherAkihabara~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 5SubwayKuramae~Toyosu290JPY
    Total1,040JPY

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

    Certification
    Certified Travel Services Manager
    Authorized Tour Conductor
    Kyoto Expert Certification

    Jul 23, 2026
    svendulrikr
    Tripadvisor review: Nara Day Trip from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide
    Best of Nara
    Amazing trip to Nara with the most…

    Jul 10, 2026
    valerianos862
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Private tour of Tokyo.
    Our guide Sam is very…

    Jun 20, 2026
    Sarah B
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learned how to ride the trains and we went to…

    Apr 14, 2026
    MDMallory
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama and Kamakura 6hr Private Trip Government-Licensed Guide
    The Natural Beauty of Kamakura
    Our guide, Sam, was very knowledgeable…

  • Hiroshima in Half a Day: Motoyasu Bridge Pier & Miyajima Port

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: Motoyasu Bridge Pier & Miyajima Port

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Meet at Hotel lobby
    • 08:35 Move to Motoyasu Bridge Pier
    • 08:55 Move to Miyajima Port
    • 09:40 Miyajima sightseeing
    • 11:30 Move to Motoyasu Bridge Pier
    • 12:30 Disband at the entrance of Hiroshima Hondori

    What Is a Private Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the second time, coming from North America. On this trip they planned to travel through the southern half of Japan after passing through another Asian city. Since the guests did not use messaging apps, I was a little concerned, but I felt reassured when I received word the day before the tour that they were at their hotel as planned. Because walking was somewhat difficult for one of the guests, I imagine Miyajima was tiring for them. When it became clear at 11:15 that they absolutely needed to reach the hotel by 12:30, I quickly changed the return route to the World Heritage Sea Route and reserved a taxi from Motoyasubashi Pier, so I was glad we were able to accommodate their request.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1JGA Pre-Approved FeeMotoyasu Bridge Pier~Miyajima Port1,200JPY
    Section 2JGA Pre-Approved FeeMiyajima Port~Motoyasu Bridge Pier1,200JPY
    Total2,400JPY

    Hi, nice to meet you! I am Emmy. I am so honored and happy to be your guide.
    I had been teaching at a local university in Hiroshima. After I got retired in March 2023, I started guiding. I was born and raised in Hiroshima. I love communicating with people all over the world more than anything, so I have been involved in home visit, homestay, volunteer guide for people from foreign countries.
    I always hope that our guests will take away lots of positive energy from Hiroshima, a city that was resilient and revived like a phoenix, in spite of its sad history.
    While realizing customers’ wishes, I will introduce you the beauty of Hiroshima, Miyajima and so on, which are tranquil and peaceful places with a unique charm that cannot be found in big cities.
    I am happy to answer any questions about things Japanese.
    I look forward to meeting you in person soon!!

    Jul 3, 2026
    715rachnak
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Such a great experience in Hiroshima and Miyajima!
    We…

    Jul 2, 2026
    Janine_P
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Worth the money!
    From the moment we booked our…

    May 7, 2026
    Diane_F
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour and guide
    Our tour guide Emmy was…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Curious613511
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    We did a 4 hour walking tour through Hiroshima where…

  • Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 09:30 Hotel tour start
    • Travel On foot Kazuemachi・Higashi Chaya District
    • AM 09:45-AM 11:30 Stroll around Kazuemachi・Higashi Chaya District Visit Shima, Utasu Shrine
    • Travel Bus Kenrokuen-shita
    • PM 12:00-13:30 Visit Kenrokuen Snack lunch
    • PM 13:30-14:30 Kanazawa Castle Park Visit Hishi Yagura, Gojukken Nagaya, Hashizumemon Tsuzuki Yagura Gyokusen'in
    • Travel Via Oyama Shrine Nagamachi Samurai District
    • PM 14:50-15:20 Nagamachi Samurai District Takada Family Residence Visit Ashigaru Museum
    • Travel Bus Tour ends at Omicho

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Kanazawa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America, and it was their first trip to Kanazawa. Some of the guests had been to Tokyo and Osaka several times before, so they seemed quite accustomed to Japan. In the morning at Higashi Chaya District, the weather was rough with hail falling, but fortunately it cleared up by the time we visited Kenrokuen Garden. After that, we were not caught in any rain, and the guests enjoyed the tour. At the start of the tour, the guests mentioned they wanted to withdraw cash at an ATM, so I guided them to the ATM at Omicho Market, where the tour ended.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHashibacho/Hokuriku Railroad Bus~Kenrokuen-shita・Kanazawa Castle/Hokuriku Railroad Bus210JPY
    Section 2BusKorinbo/Hokuriku Railroad Bus~Musashigatsuji・Omicho Market/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 One Day: Thousand Kyoto & Ryoanji

    Kyoto in One Day: Thousand Kyoto & Ryoanji

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 The Thousand Kyoto
    • 09:30 Fushimiinari (0) by JR train
    • 10:30 Kiyomizudera (500) by taxi
    • 12:30 Kinkakuji (500) by taxi
    • 13:20 Lunch (Kura Sushi Kinkakuji branch) by walking
    • 14:00 Ryoanji by walking
    • 15:15 End of the tour

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like from a Cruise Ship? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who came to Kyoto after arriving by cruise ship in Hokkaido and stopping at various places along the way. Since they had no special requests in advance, I guided them to the well-known highlights of Kyoto. Their accommodation was a hotel near Kyoto Station, so we took the JR line from Kyoto Station to Fushimi Inari Shrine. For our next destination, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Gojo Street was extremely crowded, so we approached from the back side. They did not do any shopping, only drawing an omikuji fortune at Fushimi Inari and buying some furikake seasoning along the approach to Kiyomizu-dera. They mentioned that their suitcases were already full of souvenirs. Our final stop was Ryoan-ji Temple, and since they planned to visit Ninna-ji Temple on their own afterward, we parted ways just outside Ryoan-ji.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Total150JPY

    I’m Ryoichi Kazuma and my nickname is “Kazz”. I live in Kyotanabe city next to Kyoto city. I want guests to enjoy Kyoto by seeing and experiencing not only from outside but also from inside. I offer various information from daily matters to traditional cultures. Most destinations in Kyoto are located on the eastern side or the western side. As I want to guide guests to as many destinations as possible, I make an efficient itinerary and recommend a taxi use to save time. Additionally, I take pictures at various spots and finally share the link to my storage. By doing so, guests can download their favorite pictures from my storage. Please enjoy Kyoto night and day!

    Sep 25, 2026
    Marvin_F
    Kazz is an outstanding…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Kazz is an outstanding experiencedand friendly…

    Sep 21, 2026
    Laura_K
    Day in Kyoto with Kazz
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazz was an amazing…

    Aug 27, 2026
    M6034YWthomasm
    Worth it
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    The day went by so quickly, a…

    Aug 10, 2026
    Sez042
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Awesome experience
    Tour guide Kazz was great. Very informative and showed…