Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:00 Meet at Hotel Tokyo
    • 2. 9:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 3. 11:15 Asakusa
    • 4. 12:45 Tsukiji
    • 5. 13:00 Disband at Tsukiji (Tsukiji Outer Market)

    Title: What Is a Private Tour of Tokyo's Meiji Shrine, Senso-ji, and Tsukiji Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe who had arrived in Japan the day before. This was their first visit to Japan, and their overall itinerary was planned to include Tokyo, Lake Kawaguchi, Kanazawa, Takayama, Shirakawa-go, and Kyoto. The point of contact for the itinerary was a local travel agency, which requested that the tour cover Meiji Shrine and Senso-ji Temple and conclude at Tsukiji, so the tour followed exactly that route. This private tour of Tokyo was led by a [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) government-licensed guide. The guests listened attentively to the explanations at each location, and they seemed particularly interested in the historical connections between Portugal and Japan, asking many related questions. After Tsukiji, they asked where I would recommend visiting next, and I suggested Hamarikyu Gardens and Ginza. Finally, I recommended some shops at Tsukiji Market and explained how to return to their accommodation, after which the tour concluded.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Harajuku150JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Asakusa260JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Tsukiji290JPY
    Total700JPY

    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…

  • Hiroshima in Half a Day: 15: 10 Itsukushima Shrine

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: 15: 10 Itsukushima Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at hotel
    • 10:10-11:35 Travel to Miyajima (bus, JR, ferry)
    • 11:35-12:30 Great Torii Gate, Daisho-in Temple
    • 12:30-12:50 Travel to ropeway station
    • 12:50-14:30 Travel to Mount Misen by ropeway
    • 14:30-14:50 Travel to Itsukushima Shrine
    • 14:50-15: 10 Itsukushima Shrine
    • 15:30 Disperse at Miyajima

    Title: What's a Half-Day Private Miyajima Tour from Hiroshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. The day before, they had toured the city of Hiroshima, and on this day they enjoyed a half-day tour of Miyajima. The day before the tour, at the guests' request, the ending point was suddenly changed from Hiroshima Station to Miyajima. After the tour ended on Miyajima, the guests planned to take the 16:25 World Heritage Sea Route from Miyajima to the Peace Park, so their time on Miyajima was longer than usual. Because of this, I took them by the Mount Misen ropeway up to the observation deck near the station, which is not normally included in the standard 4-hour Miyajima tour. The view from there was wonderful, and the guests appeared to have thoroughly enjoyed Miyajima. After parting with the guests on Miyajima, I returned to Hiroshima Station by ferry and JR.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusShirakami Shrine-mae/Hiroshima Bus~Hiroshima Station240JPY
    Section 2TrainHiroshima~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 3TrainMiyajimaguchi~Hiroshima420JPY
    Total1,080JPY

    Hi! My name is Kazuhisa To. I was born in Nagasaki Prefecture and spent a total of approximately 17 years there. After graduating from university and completing graduate school, I moved to Hiroshima in 1984. Hiroshima has been my home base for more than 42 years, including approximately five and a half years during which I was posted to Germany and the United States. I worked as an engineer at Mazda Motor Corporation for 40 years. While working at Mazda, I earned a Ph.D. in Engineering through a doctoral program designed for working professionals at a national university. During the final five years of my career at Mazda, I was assigned to Hiroshima University, where I served as a Specially Appointed Professor and Deputy Director of a research center. In this role, I led the development of the center’s organizational and operational framework and advanced more than 20 industry–university collaborative research projects across four major research programs, contributing to regional revitalization. Living in Nagasaki, Hiroshima, Germany, and the United States has deepened my appreciation for the distinct histories and cultures of different regions and broadened my international perspective. Drawing on these experiences, I strive to offer tours that allow guests from around the world to feel comfortable and relaxed while enjoying a genuinely engaging experience. After retiring from Mazda at the end of March 2024, I embarked on a new chapter in my life as a licensed local guide in Hiroshima. In addition to renowned destinations such as Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima, I am delighted to introduce guests to Hiroshima’s history, culture, natural beauty, local cuisine, and everyday life, tailoring each tour to their individual interests and preferences. It is my sincere hope that every guest will enjoy a truly personal and memorable experience while discovering the authentic spirit of Hiroshima. I very much look forward to welcoming you to Hiroshima!

    Sep 28, 2026
    anita2336
    The best time in Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    This was one of…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Mostew
    Private tour with To – Hiroshima / Miyajima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    We…

    Aug 30, 2026
    644lucys
    Fantastic guide, full and wonderful day.
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Today we had…

    Jul 21, 2026
    anza
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Excellent Walking Tour with Kazuhisa To
    We had a…

  • Yamaguchi in One Day: Akama Shrine Akama & Mekari Shrine Mekari

    Yamaguchi in One Day: Akama Shrine Akama & Mekari Shrine Mekari

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:45 Meet at Hotel Meet at Hotel
    • 9:00 Walk around Karato area (Former British Consulate, Karato Market etc) Along Kanmon Strait, Walk around Karato area, walk along Kanmon Strait
    • 10:00 Akama Shrine Akama Shrine
    • 10:30 Kanmon Pedestrian Tunnel Kanmon Pedestrian Tunnel
    • 11:10 Mekari Shrine Mekari Shrine
    • 11: 50 Moji Port Retro (Mitsui Club, Moji Port Station, shopping) Stroll around Moji Port Retro area, rest, shopping
    • 12:50 Take a ferry to back to Karato Board the ferry
    • 13:00 Lunch at locan Ramen shop Lunch at a local ramen shop
    • 13:45 Souvenir Shopping Souvenir shopping at Kamon Wharf
    • 14:20 Take a taxi and dismiss Dismiss at Hotel (return to port by taxi)

    What Is a Private Walking Tour in Japan Like? A Licensed Guide's Report It was a slightly cloudy and chilly day, but the weather was perfect for walking. Although the wind was strong, the guests asked questions as we walked and listened to the stories along the way, and I think they took a genuine interest. My impression was that they were more curious about everyday life and my own background than about historical details. The ramen shop was a place I know well, and the owner kindly gave them Hasami ware as a souvenir, which added a special touch to the experience. The guests said they would be "very honored!" to have their photos posted, so please feel free to share them. They mentioned that if there is a link showing where the photos are published, they would appreciate being informed, and it is fine for me to let them know as well. Thank you very much.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1FerryMoji Port~Karato/Sanden Kotsu400JPY
    Total400JPY

    Hello, I’m Rie, who has been assinged to your guide this time. First of all, thank you so much for choosing this town as one of your travel destination. I am very exciting to show you around! I had live in abroad (Kentucky (USA), Guam, Lugano (Switzerland) ) for about 30 years. I enjoyed to learn many different cultures and languages through the time. I love to meet new people, eat and drink like bar hopping 🙂 and make a great memory together. Please feel free to ask any question, request, etc. I will work my best and accommodate your visit as you wish. We are on “Once-in-a- lifetime.” Let’s have some fun and together! I am looking forward to meeting you soon!

    Apr 3, 2026
    Edward_G
    Viator review: Shimonoseki & Moji Port Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour of the are…
    Wonderful tour of the…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • ① 09:00 The Westin Miyako Kyoto meeting point
    • ② 09:05 Itinerary explanation and about Kyoto's history
    • ③ 09:45 Nijo Castle
    • ④ 11:10 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • ⑤ 12:00 Lunch near Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • ⑥ 13:30 Jojakko-ji Temple
    • ⑦ 14:20 Bamboo Grove ~ Togetsukyo Bridge
    • ⑧ 15:20 Dismissal at the hotel

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama and Jojakko-ji The guests were visitors from North America. They had come to Japan on a trip, and it may have been to mark some special occasion, though I did not ask. Over the past few days, the Japanese archipelago had been rainy, and they said Tokyo and Hakone had been shrouded in rain and deep fog the entire time, so they were delighted that it finally cleared up in Kyoto. Today in particular was a beautiful clear autumn day, with the sun almost dazzling, and everywhere the greenery was fresh and refreshing, just like in the photo (Jojakko-ji). Not only for the places we would visit today, but because they wanted recommendations for exploring Kyoto or Nara for one more day tomorrow, I brought along a thick set of materials on recommended spots and explained various options. Jojakko-ji sits partway up Mount Ogura, famous for the Hyakunin Isshu, and there are the remains of the Shigure-tei, where the great poet Fujiwara no Teika compiled the Hyakunin Isshu. When I explained that the very sound of the names "Arashiyama" and "Ogurayama" carries something rhyme-like that evokes classical Japanese poetry, they listened to that story with great interest. About five minutes' climb up from the Shigure-tei there is a natural viewing point from which you can look out over the whole of Kyoto and the Thirty-Six Peaks of Higashiyama, and it was wonderfully refreshing, so they enjoyed filming video here as well. I always explain that the Togetsukyo Bridge is a viewing point from which you look up at Arashiyama from below the mountains, and today the air was so clear that the Oi River, nestled between Arashiyama and Ogurayama, looked beautiful. I believe the guests felt a beauty somehow different from the grand-scale lakes and mountains they usually enjoy back home. I am very grateful to the driver for all the help.

    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…

  • Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Kyoto in 1 Day from Osaka: Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at hotel 10:55 Fushimi Inari  12:40 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove 13:20 Short break & lunch 14:40 Kinkaku-ji 16:20 Gion 17:10 Board Keihan train heading to Osaka
    • 18:15 Drop off near hotel and tour ends

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. Their accommodation, a hotel, had very unclear signage that was difficult for first-time users to navigate. Some of the conversation was a little hard to follow at times. Partly because we missed a train, it took longer than expected to reach Fushimi Inari Shrine. One of the guests took a great many photographs and captured some excellent shots. Today I noticed the behavior of several tourists a number of times. At Fushimi Inari, one visitor kept a small "omokaru-ishi" stone tucked under the arm while chatting for a while; another stood in the entrance of a city bus so the doors would not close; and in Gion someone stood in the doorway of a private residence to take photos. Also, at the Kinkaku-ji-michi bus stop, a Japanese assistant allowed a passenger to board the bus ahead of the line, which made me wonder whether that was appropriate. The photo was taken at the bamboo grove in Arashiyama.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherTanimachi 4-chome~Tenmabashi190JPY
    Section 2TrainTenmabashi~Fushimi Inari480JPY
    Section 3TrainInari~Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 4OtherRanden Arashiyama~Kitano-Hakubaicho250JPY
    Section 5OtherKitano-Hakubaicho~Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 6OtherKinkakuji-michi~Nishioji-Oike230JPY
    Section 7OtherNishioji-Oike~Higashiyama260JPY
    Section 8OtherHigashiyama-Sanjo~Gion/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 9TrainGion-Shijo~Tenmabashi490JPY
    Section 10OtherTenmabashi~Tanimachi 4-chome190JPY
    Total2,790JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo: Shinjuku & Tokyo Station to the Imperial Palace

    Tokyo: Shinjuku & Tokyo Station to the Imperial Palace

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 10:40 Around Shinjuku
    • 12:15 From Tokyo Station to the Imperial Palace
    • 13:30 Imperial Palace tour
    • 16:30 Tour ends at the Mori Art Museum

    What's a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Since one of them had visited Tokyo and Osaka about two years earlier, we focused on places they had not been able to see on that trip. As they planned to continue to Osaka and Kyoto before returning to Tokyo and staying in Shinjuku, I introduced Shinjuku's Omoide Yokocho, the Godzilla building, and Golden Gai as references for later. They had only seen the Imperial Palace from the outside and wanted to see it from within, so we joined the Imperial Palace tour, where they seemed overwhelmed by its vastness and grandeur and were very pleased. After a late lunch, I saw them off at the Mori Art Museum, ending the tour.

    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…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 8:30 Meet the guests at the hotel
    • 2. 9:15 Guide through Nijo Castle
    • 3. 12:00 Guide through Nanzenji Temple
    • 4. 13:00 Guide through Eikando Temple
    • 5. 14:00 Philosopher's Path
    • 6. 14:30 Disband @ Ginkakuji Temple approach

    What Is a Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nijo Castle, Nanzen-ji, and Ginkaku-ji The guests today were visitors from Europe. They had a strong interest in Japan, having read books about the country before their trip, and the questions they asked were consistently deep and thoughtful. For example, at Nijo Castle they were knowledgeable about the shogunate, the feudal lords, and the return of political power to the emperor, so our visit became an exchange of views and we took our time exploring. They also entered the museum and enthusiastically viewed the original fusuma paintings rather than the replicas. At Nanzen-ji, guiding was very rewarding as I explained the differences between Zen Buddhism and Pure Land Buddhism, as well as the differences between Buddhism and Shinto. At Eikan-do, they enjoyed dango in the garden park, and when I told them the story of moon-viewing and dango they laughed and enjoyed the beautiful garden scenery. From Eikan-do we strolled along the Philosopher's Path toward Ginkaku-ji, and we parted ways in front of Ginkaku-ji. We were blessed with fine weather today, making it a perfect day for sightseeing.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto~Nijojo-mae260JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijojo-mae~Keage260JPY
    Total520JPY

    After a rather long teaching experience at Japanese college, I converted my career about 6 years ago into working as a tour guide for the tourists visiting Japan.
    As my career overseas, I’ve been in the UN and the Japanese Embassy, all in the USA, totaling more than 6 years.
    And then I had made a big change in my career from a diplomat to an academic researcher. For that career to achieve, I studied abroad and won a doctorate degree in linguistics from Indiana University and landed a teaching position at college in Japan.
    With all these interesting and exciting experiences I’ve made myself ready to enrich your tour and make it both enjoyable and worthwhile.

    Apr 26, 2026
    39ferdinandr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Exceptional and entertaining
    Great tour better the tour guide Toshi.

    Apr 9, 2026
    X1429XKclaudiam
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sehr zu empfehlen
    Wir haben als Familie diese 6-stundige Tour durch Kyoto…

    Jun 28, 2025
    WilliamAlfonso_R
    Toshi is a very eloquent, knowledgeable, and diligent tour guide.
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Toshi was…

    May 30, 2025
    Z
    ZevP5
    Best Tour Guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the best guide!! He was so…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace East Gardens & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace East Gardens & Asakusa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet up @ Royal Park Tokyo Iconic
    • 9:20 Tsukiji: Fish Market, Outer Market, Honganji Temple
    • 10:45 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 12:15 Asakusa Stroll
    • 13:00 Lunch @ Owariya (Asakusa)
    • 13:45 Ueno Park: Toshogu Shrine, Dahlia Garden
    • 15:15 Disband @ Wako, Ginza 4-chome

    Can You Do a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Covering Tsukiji, the Imperial Palace, Asakusa, and Ueno? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America. It was their first visit to Japan, and they had arrived the previous day. They planned to visit Nikko, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Kanazawa after Tokyo. First of all, the weather today was neither too hot nor too cold, with no rain — a fine day for sightseeing after a long while. At Tsukiji, I explained the history of the fish market area, how it divides its role with the Toyosu Market, and the supply chain. Today there were few international visitors at the fish market, so the guests were able to enjoy a special sense of exclusivity. At the Imperial Palace, I explained Japanese history, especially the founding of the Edo shogunate, the Meiji Restoration, and the imperial system. The guests loved the garden and immediately sent the photos they had taken to their family. In Asakusa, the guests wished to eat tempura, so I took them to a long-established tempura restaurant, where luckily all the other customers happened to be Japanese, and here too they were delighted to enjoy a special sense of exclusivity. Ueno was at the guests' request, but along the way I learned that they liked dahlias, so as a surprise I guided them to a dahlia garden. I also explained Toshogu Shrine, including its connection to Nikko, as a bit of preparation for their upcoming visit there. The guests asked me to guide them again the following day, but my schedule did not allow it, so I contacted [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/). Unfortunately, another guide could not be assigned at that point, so it did not work out.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHibiya~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Ueno180JPY
    Section 4TrainUeno~Yurakucho170JPY
    Total710JPY

    Hello! My name is Hideki Maruyama. I was born in Osaka and raised in the Greater Tokyo area. I obtained my National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate in February 2016.
    I spent 23 years working at a leading Japanese automotive company, including 7 years posted overseas. I then worked for a German premium automotive manufacturer for 13 years, followed by 6 years as an advisor to a British energy company. Through these roles at global corporations, I developed and refined key skills such as:
    1. Cross-cultural communication
    2. A deep understanding of business elites and affluent customers
    3. The ability to deliver impactful and impressive presentations in English
    In addition to my regular duties, I often served as an interpreter for top executives during meetings with foreign government officials. I also had opportunities to introduce aspects of Japan—such as our national character and consumer preferences—to leadership teams in both the German and British companies.
    As a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding guests from a wide range of countries especially after the pandemic, including the US, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Ireland, Norway, Sweden, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

    Jun 14, 2026
    tiffany_w
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Phenomenal experiance
    Hideki san was an amazing guide. He was incredibly knowledgable…

    Jun 13, 2026
    Joshua_A
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The Best Guide I Had in Japan
    Hideki was, without question, my…

    May 2, 2026
    Bruce G
    Our guide (Hideki san) was a master. It was a rainy day and he suggested a new plan in anticipation…

    Apr 30, 2026
    johnbD9596UO
    Lovely Private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I had a great…

  • Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Hotel Meet Miyagino Bridge 9:00 By bus to Gora Station 9:21 By cable car to Sounzan 10:00 Owakudani 10:35 Togendai 11:25 Pirate Ship 11:50 Hakonemachi Port
    • Maruyama Bussan, Hakone Checkpoint, Onshi Park, Old Cedar Avenue, Moto-Hakone Lakeside, Hakone Shrine, Red Torii, walking tour without lunch. Upon returning to Moto-Hakone,
    • the customer said they would stroll a bit more on their own and return by taxi, so we disbanded at 14:20

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a very close-knit group visiting from North America who listened attentively to explanations of Japan's history and culture, making for a rewarding and enriching day even in a short time. The timing also coincided with the first snowcap of the season on Mount Fuji, and with excellent weather, it was a wonderful welcome. Onshi Park, with an atmosphere completely different from Osaka which they had visited the previous day, felt distinctly Japanese and the guests thoroughly enjoyed it. A presentation on yosegi marquetry woodwork offered a different perspective on introducing Japan, which the guests also enjoyed, and they purchased souvenirs. The natural beauty of Hakone at Owakudani, the pirate ship, and the cedar avenue was superb, and I believe it made an ideal destination to visit following Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassOdawara Station~Odawara Station6,000JPY
    Total6,000JPY

    I am Hiroki Morikawa :Hiro:, English guide living with my wife ,just a hop skip and jump from Hakone, Kamakura, Tokyo and the Mt. Fuji.
    I am a friendly grandfather of 4 grandchildren.
    I would love to help you enjoy Japan, using my 3 strong points.
    First: I am used to dealing with any kind of matters. I have experienced various situations in the 40 years of my working life.
    Second: I am good at making a friendly atmosphere between you and local people to help you enjoy Japan. I was raised in western Japan, studied in northern Japan and now live in central Japan. So I know various local cultures and dialects to communicate with a wide variety of people.
    Third: I can explain things from a technical point of view.
    For example, how the Great Buddha was constructed, because I am a master of engineering graduated from Hokkaido University.
    Please enjoy Japan with me. See you soon!!
    dummy

    Aug 24, 2026
    Deb_K
    Viator review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Well organised tour
    Hiro is obviously an experienced guide.…

    Aug 6, 2026
    Marcus_J
    Viator review: Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing day with…
    Had an amazing day with Hiro.…

    Jun 30, 2026
    G2432BLtimothyc
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Full Day Tour with Guide and Vehicle
    6 hour tour of Hakone
    we had a great experience with…

    Jun 25, 2026
    T7734IPbrandons
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in hakone
    Niro was perfect for us. He was…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kinkakuji Temple & & Stroll around Arashiyama

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkakuji Temple & & Stroll around Arashiyama

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Hotel Meet (@Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto)
    • 8:00-9:15 Travel (Keihan Railway; Kiyomizu-Gojo→Gion-Shijo, City Bus; Shijo-Keihanmae→Kinkakuji-michi)
    • 9:15-10:00 Visit Kinkakuji Temple
    • 10:00-10:15 Travel (City Bus; Kinkakuji-michi→Ryoanji-mae)
    • 10:15-11:15 Visit Ryoanji Temple
    • 11:15:12:10 Travel (Keifuku Railway; Ryoanji→Arashiyama)
    • 12:10-13:10 Visit & Stroll around Arashiyama (Tenryuji Garden [Sogenchi Garden, Hyakkaen], Bamboo Grove, Kameyama Park, Togetsukyo Bridge)
    • 13:10-14:00 Lunch (Musabi Cafe)
    • 14:00 Tour ends after lunch. After the tour, we took the guests to the hotel's station (Kiyomizu-Gojo) and said goodbye there

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji, Ryoan-ji, and Arashiyama The guests were a group visiting from North America, and it was their first time in Kyoto. The tour was led by a government-licensed private guide from [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/). I took the group to Kinkaku-ji, Ryoan-ji, and Arashiyama. The weather was perfectly clear without a single cloud, which made it ideal for the tour. Everyone in the group seemed especially pleased at Kinkaku-ji, where they were able to take many photos of the Golden Pavilion reflected in the pond. Today's tour required a lot of travel time, but it was fortunate that the group was able to sit down and travel comfortably even on a crowded bus.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKiyomizu-Gojo~Gion-Shijo180JPY
    Section 2BusGion-Shijo~Kinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3BusKinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus~Ryoanji-mae / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4TrainRyoanji~Arashiyama (Keifuku Line)250JPY
    Total890JPY

    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.…