Title: What Can You See on a 4-Hour Private Gion Walking Tour in Kyoto? A Licensed Guide's Report Before the tour, I sent about three emails to the address I had been given to discuss the itinerary, but received no reply, and the messages sent via the messaging app were not marked as read. I therefore consulted [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), who kindly contacted the guests' travel agency on my behalf. Even so, there was no response from the guests until the day itself, and I headed to the meeting point without confirmation. According to the guests, they had replied to their travel agency and had not used the messaging app. It was unclear whether the travel agency was supposed to reply to the guide or whether the guests themselves were, and I felt it would be better to clarify this in advance, as otherwise the guide arrives on site with lingering uncertainty about the guests. That said, the guests were visitors from Europe who were very friendly and pleasant. When I asked again where they would like to go, they said anywhere was fine. Since it was a short four-hour tour, I was wondering what to do, when one of the guests said, "I want to go to Gion, and tomorrow we will go to Arashiyama." I suggested, "Since your hotel is conveniently located on Takatsuji-dori and Miyagawacho is nearby, let's walk through the quieter geisha district of Miyagawacho, stop by Kennin-ji, Japan's oldest Zen temple, go to Hanamikoji, and then head to Yasaka Shrine, the birthplace of the geisha tradition." After leaving the hotel and walking east along Takatsuji-dori, the guests spotted a cafe and said they wanted to take a break, and they treated me to a drink as well. We had a lively conversation about their upcoming travel plans and about Japan. Refreshed, we then strolled through Takasegawa, Matsubarabashi, Miyagawacho, and Zenkyoan. At Zenkyoan, the guests were delighted to take photos, saying how cute it was that small boar figurines were offered around the guardian boar statue. We then passed the Hojo pond and the Sanmon gate of Kennin-ji. Since one of the guests was interested in matcha, I explained that the custom of drinking tea originally came from Zen monks trying not to fall asleep during meditation. When I tried to have them purchase admission tickets at the kuri, they realized they had no cash on hand. As going to a nearby ATM to withdraw money and coming back would waste time, they said they would come back on their own later, so we headed straight from the north gate toward Hanamikoji. As this was the second time in a row this happened, I plan to advise future guests in advance to bring cash. At Hanamikoji, I received questions such as how many years it takes to become a geisha and how much a geisha banquet costs. Since we had extra time from not being able to enter Kennin-ji, I suggested heading to another geisha district, Shinbashi. After crossing Shijo-dori, the guests spotted a coffee shop and said they wanted another break, and they treated me to coffee. One of the guests bought a Baumkuchen and taught me that the word is German, saying they had not expected to come across Baumkuchen in Japan. I received a question about why the faces of geisha and maiko are painted white. I explained that in the past the evening lighting was dim, and for reference, I showed a panel photo I had taken last year at an NHK "Hikaru Kimi e" event, featuring characters in period costumes. Although it was not white makeup, the guests looked with interest at the aristocratic clothing of the period and were surprised at how long the women's hair was. I explained that as the times changed and women became more active, they began to tie their hair back and put it up. After refreshing, I explained the beautiful flow of the Shirakawa, Tatsumi Shrine, and others, and had them walk through the Shinbashi geisha district. When crossing Shijo-dori, one of the guests spotted Yasaka Shrine and seemed interested, so we returned to Shijo-dori and headed to Yasaka Shrine. At the entrance, the zuishin were wearing Heian aristocratic clothing like what I had shown during the break, so I think it made sense to them. I had them wash their hands at the purification fountain, and since they were newly married, I recommended they pay respects at Otasha and Shirahigesha, deities of marital harmony. After paying respects at the main hall, we still had time. At first I thought of going to Kiyomizu-dera, but since it is crowded during the day, I recommended visiting early in the morning if they had the chance, and instead we viewed the Sanmon gate of Chion-in in the opposite direction before I suggested strolling along the Shirakawa. When I told them, "If you wash your face with the water of Utsukushi Gozen Shrine, you will become more beautiful," both of the guests washed their faces. Next they were overwhelmed by the Sanmon gate of Chion-in and happily took commemorative photos at the Ippon-bashi bridge over the Shirakawa. After that, I thought of going to Heian Shrine, but I recalled that a few days earlier a local Kansai information program had introduced Shoren-in as a hidden spot for avoiding heat and crowds, so I suggested going to Shoren-in. At the entrance there was a panel of Heian aristocrats, both featuring the kind of clothing I had shown, and one of the guests remarked, "The women have long hair, but the men tie theirs up." I had them gaze for a while at Soami's garden from the Kachoden. A truly pleasant breeze was blowing, and we spent the time comfortably cool. After going around the buildings, one of the guests asked, "Where did people in the old days use the toilet?" I answered "inside," but as it was the first time I had received such a question, I felt I need to study more. Regarding Shoren-in, the guests were pleased, saying it was a fine temple where there were few people and one could stay cool. Afterward we went around the garden once, and finally I recommended that they try ringing the bell that anyone may ring. One of the guests, though a little hesitant, gave it a try while another took photos. As it was just the right time, we ended the tour at the entrance of Shoren-in. I took a photo at Tatsumi-bashi bridge, but I accidentally took it in portrait orientation.

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Tour Report by Satoko

I am a 53-year-old woman, living in Kyoto for nearly 40 years. I got the license in 2001. Since then, I worked as an interpreter or a translator in several companies, secretary at universities, and now work for a company on weekdays at the international dept.I do guiding job only weekend now. I started full swing guiding career after COVID-19 pandemic. I have gotten good review from many of my guests. I love my hometown, Kyoto which has a lot of interesting and historical sites to see. Particularly, I am native to Arashiyama which is famous for bamboo forest. So, I know a lot of places where you can relax yourself around this area. Other than that, Kyoto has many attractive sites which surely interest you.Also, I like meeting many people from different cultural background. I am very happy if I learn about your culture as well. Let’s enjoy exploring around Kyoto!

Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Part of the group had a work meeting in Osaka, so the group decided to make it a family trip to Japan at the same time. They spent a few days in Tokyo, a few days in Osaka and Kyoto, and then planned to head straight back home. I assumed they might be baseball fans of a local team from their home region, but one of the guests (the person in the white shirt in the center of the photo) turned out to be a big fan of the Hanshin Tigers and had even watched a game against Hiroshima at Koshien the previous day, which I found quite unique — perhaps it came about through the course of work. This person was very fun; even though we were speaking in English, the way they talked was full of the lively, energetic Kansai character, with a big cheerful voice. In the taxi, I talked about the differences in temperament between Tokyo people and Osaka people, and between Osaka people and Kyoto people, and this went over very well. One of the guests, despite a rather cool and tough-looking impression, had Pokémon tattoos all over and would stop dead in their tracks whenever they spotted a Pokémon gashapon machine. Another of the guests was very much the "I'm all ears" type who wanted to listen carefully to history and culture. Initially we had planned to visit Kinkaku-ji instead of Fushimi Inari, but on the day they changed their minds and we went to Fushimi Inari. As is the case everywhere in Japan, in such hot and humid weather standing still in one spot to listen to a guide's long-winded explanations is nothing but painful, so I made an effort to keep moving from place to place while keeping my explanations concise. I feel that a guide's role in this season really comes down to being fast, concise, and to the point.

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Tour Report by Kazu

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

What Can You See on a Private Cultural Day Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report Having arrived two days earlier and already explored Skytree and Asakusa the previous day, the guests requested a change from the originally planned course, so the tour focused mainly on introducing them to Japanese culture. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. We first headed to Tsukiji Market, where the guests took in its unique atmosphere amid the bustling crowds. After that, I took them to Namiyoke Shrine and Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple, where I explained the differences between Shinto and Buddhism, the influence each has had on Japanese culture, and the different ways of worship at shrines and temples. They were delighted, saying they now understood well why Japan's streets are so clean, which they had noticed the day before, and how Japanese culture shapes daily life. Next, at the Imperial Palace and Nijubashi Bridge, I explained the origins and history of Edo Castle and the Imperial family, helping them understand how it all connects to the present day. Finally, we headed to Meiji Shrine, where we happened to come across a wedding procession, and the guests were deeply moved by this distinctly Japanese ceremony. At the end, I took them to JR Shinagawa Station, the nearest station to their hotel, and the tour concluded.

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Tour Report by Atsushi

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.

Can You Do a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Visiting Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji, and Kodai-ji? A Licensed Guide's Report This was a private one-day Kyoto sightseeing tour for a group who had attended an international conference. During the planning meeting, the guests requested world-heritage-class temples and shrines with beautiful gardens set in wonderful natural surroundings, so we visited Sagano (the Bamboo Grove path and Tenryu-ji), Kinkaku-ji, and Kodai-ji. Although it was a hot day, it was very memorable to see the guests taking photos with satisfaction at every spot. The guests took a strong interest in the episodes and stories connected to each place (for example, Yoshimitsu's construction of the Golden Pavilion and Nene's intentions behind building Kodai-ji). Before returning to the hotel, we visited a ramen restaurant in Gion recommended by the driver, which was well received, and I felt it truly reflected the local knowledge of the driver.

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Tour Report by YOSHI

Since I completely retired from my position at a railway company and started being involved in the tour guide interpreter business, I have experienced almost all types of guiding through FIT, Long Group Tours, Cruises (Shore Excursions), Incentive Tours, Special Interest Tours (Railway Travel, Pilgrimages), Familiarization Tours (Sales Promotion Tours) etc.
However, I noticed that I am not fully satisfied to only be a general guide who just manages a tour itinerary provided by tour agents/clients.
High-end guests have sometimes requested me to answer some enquiries that are actually challenging to answer for Japanese nationals. However, I appreciated those because they provided such a challenge and I felt that they wanted to understand my sense of beauty/values as a guide concerning a new culture for them.
Every time I host my guest I do my best to prepare the most appropriate information based on three travel elements (appetite, logistics, accommodation). Nevertheless, I decided to aim for higher guiding skills after I was motivated by senior guides whose guiding strategies and gestures were particularly impressive.

What Is a Private Beppu Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Jigoku Steam Cooking and Sand Baths The guests were visiting Japan for the first time as a memorial trip. For the jigoku-mushi (hell-steam cooking) experience, I initially considered a traditional facility for hot-spring cure visitors that accepts reservations, but taking the heat into account I switched to the Jigoku Mushi Kobo workshop. Since this place does not accept reservations, we visited just before noon and were able to use it with no waiting time. The guests were delighted, saying the mineral-rich dishes were delicious. It was an extremely hot and challenging day for touring the "hells" (jigoku), so we focused on the two most popular spots. For the sand bath, rather than using the municipal Takegawara Onsen, which cannot be reserved, we used Shonin Park near the pier, which had just opened in July. The guests seemed to thoroughly enjoy the sand bath and were pleased that it relieved the fatigue of their travels. They loved Beppu very much and said they would definitely visit again.

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Tour Report by Chiharu

Hallo, my name is Chiharu Horigome. I am a national government-licensed guide interpreter. I was born in Beppu City, Oita Prefecture, and living in Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture. I lived for 42 years in Chiba City until April 2023, during that time I worked as a volunteer guide for Narita Airport transit tours. I studied chemistry at university and have over 20 years of experience as a chemical patent translator, so I can also assist with factory tours. My specialty is Japanese culture, especially the tea ceremony, which I have been familiar with since I was a child. In addition, I have a license for kimono dressing. I hope people from other countries feel authentic Japanese culture. I can also help them understand hot springs and sake, including chemical explanations. I am happy to assist you during our tour. If you have any questions about our tour, feel free to ask. I am glad to answer them to the best of my ability! I am looking forward to seeing you.

Can You Do a Private Tokyo Day Tour with a Wheelchair User? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private one-day tour of Tokyo for a group visiting from Europe. Prior communication was handled mainly through a travel agency, which advised that the guests had no particular requests for destinations, but noted that one member of the group had an injured leg and could walk without problems as long as distances were not long. The agency confirmed that the guests had agreed to the proposed itinerary I had suggested, but when we met on the day, it turned out that a wheelchair would actually be used. I had not anticipated a wheelchair, so I felt a moment of concern about subway access, since I had not planned around always using elevators and escalators. That concern proved well-founded. We tried to depart from Jimbocho Station using the elevator, but because access to the platform differs slightly depending on the line, it took 30 minutes just to reach the departure platform (for which I apologized profusely). Confirming elevator routes for transfers with station staff was also a struggle: rather than the usual transfer route, we had to exit the ticket gate once and re-enter through a different line's gate, going back and forth twice. We arrived at the Hirakawamon gate of the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace at 11:30. The guests were truly kind, and there seemed to be no trouble with the leg or with moving by wheelchair. Still, I reflected that during the advance confirmation with the agency, I should have asked in more detail about the extent of the leg injury and, bearing in mind that Japan's subways are still not fully universally designed, recommended taking the train more carefully. After that, I made a point of keeping a slow walking pace, and while using the subway I kept an eye out for exit signs indicating elevators and escalators as we continued the tour. Even though the guests had only arrived the previous night, they were full of energy. During our travels they even shared information via a messaging app about other recommended places. In the East Gardens we walked slowly in the shade, and at Meiji Shrine I took plenty of photos of them. At Tsukiji they enjoyed Japanese food such as sushi and tempura, and everyone crossed the Shibuya Scramble Crossing safely together. Inside the station we took snack breaks and spent time as leisurely as possible, and by the time we reached Asakusa it was 10 minutes before the main hall closed. When they mentioned wanting to buy matcha, I introduced them to how to reach a specialty tea and teaware shop behind Asakusa, and we parted with smiles. I was relieved that the tour ended without any accidents.

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Tour Report by Tachi

Hi! I’m a local guide in Tokyo and have been working as a licensed tour guide for almost 10 years. I love helping guests discover the “real Japan” beyond the guidebooks. I enjoy showing guests both famous sights and places that many tourists miss. My tours are based on your interests and can include not only famous sightseeing spots, but also local neighborhoods, culture, history, and everyday life in Japan. I also help guests enjoy Japanese cultural activities and make communication easier. If you’d like vegan or gluten-free meals, let me help you find suitable restaurants in Tokyo. If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, please feel free to let me know in advance. I look forward to showing you around Tokyo!

What Is a Private Walking Tour of Okayama Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. They had almost retired and were enjoying their free time, having traveled to many countries around the world. Among these, they held a deep affection for Japan. The guests came from a multicultural background, which conveyed a wonderful sense of cross-cultural harmony. They had also visited Japan before COVID-19. As they follow a vegetarian diet, they are careful about choosing ingredients. Since they would be staying in Okayama, I recommended some tofu restaurants for them. Today the daytime high temperature reached about 35 degrees, so we sweated quite a bit while sightseeing, protecting ourselves with sunglasses, parasols, and hats. First, at Nishigawa Canal Park, we took a leisurely stroll along the beautiful park that follows the Nishigawa, which is actually a canal flowing through the center of the city. Although few overseas tourists visit here, the guests liked it very much. The guest photo was taken there, and it struck me as a surprisingly proud tourist attraction. Next, we visited Okayama Korakuen, which could be called the main highlight, and here they seemed a little surprised by the lawn garden rather than the moss more commonly found in Japanese gardens. At a teahouse in the garden, we enjoyed cold matcha and mitsumame. They smiled at the calls of the cranes seeking food, as well as the large carp opening their mouths wide, also looking for food. They also showed interest in the ecology of the turtles and the herons. Despite it being a Saturday, there were surprisingly few tourists, and they admired the beautiful space that uses Okayama Castle and the nearby mountains as "borrowed scenery." We then headed to Okayama Castle, where they offered interesting commentary comparing it with castles in Europe. They reflected on the harsh Sengoku period. Here, I explained the origin of the name Okayama, and when I told them that Okayama Castle stands atop the "Okayama," a hill of less than 10 meters in elevation, they were very surprised. For me personally, guiding work had been quiet in August, so despite the heat, I felt refreshed and fulfilled by this wonderful encounter and experience.

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Tour Report by Sam

My name is Susumu Hiramatsu. I am a national government licensed guide interpreter. I became a guide interpreter in 1992. My educational background started with a BA in law, then an MA in English language education, and completed a doctoral course without a degree in English language teaching. My occupational career began with a bank officer, then shifted to a translation and interpretation company, finally became a freelance translator, interpreter, and college teacher. I handle conference interpretation, namely simultaneous interpretation. As for the guide interpreter, my interest covers wide areas including politics and business, but I deem cultural aspects to be fundamental. I am always encouraging myself to be filled with Japanese hospitality.

Title: What Can You See on a Private Day Tour of Tokyo? Asakusa, the Imperial Palace, and a Japanese Garden — A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were from Europe, and it was the group's first sightseeing visit to Japan, though one of them had previously come to Japan a few times for work. They had arrived a couple of days earlier. The day before, not realizing a typhoon was passing through, they had visited Shibuya and Ginza. Due to the bad weather, they were unable to go up Shibuya Sky, and they ended up walking through Ginza in strong winds. They planned to stay in Tokyo for a few more days and then travel to the Kansai region. The guests had requested Asakusa, the Imperial Palace, and a Japanese garden, which is how the above itinerary came about. Originally, we had also planned to visit Meiji Shrine and Shibuya afterward, but since they had already been to Shibuya and were looking forward to shopping in Harajuku, we did not visit Meiji Shrine and instead ended with an overview explanation of it. Since they still felt disappointed about missing Shibuya Sky the previous day, I suggested the observation deck at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and explained how to get there.

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Tour Report by Ted

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.

Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests had previously spent time in Japan and were quite familiar with the country, but this was their first visit to Hakone. They mentioned that the scenery of Hakone reminded them of their home region in North America, and perhaps out of a sense of familiarity, they took many photos from the car window. The route was a basic one, covering the ropeway, the pirate ship, and the Hakone Checkpoint, but there were few other visitors today, so the guests were able to enjoy the entire itinerary at a relaxed pace. They greatly enjoyed the presentation at the local specialty shop and bought some souvenirs. At a rice-bowl restaurant, one of the guests wanted to have grilled eel over rice, and they enjoyed Japanese food along with beer, and treated me as well. At the checkpoint and the cedar avenue, they truly felt the atmosphere of the Edo period. The bus, which is usually full, was nearly empty today, so we returned in a relaxed manner as well.

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Tour Report by Hiro

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!!
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Private One-Day Tokyo Tour in a Typhoon: A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Asakusa, Harajuku, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. This was a one-week trip to Japan, and they had traveled from Asia into Kansai Airport, visiting Kyoto and Osaka before taking the Shinkansen to Tokyo the previous night. They planned to return home from Narita Airport the day after next. Their wish was to "see as many of the main spots in Tokyo as possible within the time available." Due to an approaching typhoon, the tour took place in heavy rain and strong winds. We met at the Hotel. First we went to Tsukiji Market. Some shops were already preparing to close. After visiting Tsukiji Uogashi, we moved to the Tsukiji Outer Market. I explained "the history of Tokyo's fish market since the Edo period" and "the difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market." There were few tourists around. The guests asked and commented, "Do all Tokyo residents come here to buy fish?" and "It's crowded, but it seems like there are many tourists." After this we moved to Asakusa. Perhaps because of the bad weather, there were fewer tourists than usual, so we were able to proceed at a leisurely pace. First we went to the observation deck of the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, where I explained the history of Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple. Then we started from the front of Kaminarimon Gate. I explained "what the five-story pagoda is for," "what Buddhism is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." We took commemorative photos in front of Kaminarimon Gate and the five-story pagoda. We strolled slowly along the Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people believe in?", and "Are there any Christians in Japan?" We moved to Harajuku. First we went to Meiji Shrine. Despite the rain, there were many groups of foreign visitors. I explained "about Shinto," "about the torii gate," "about Emperor Meiji," "why sake barrels are displayed," and "why wine barrels are displayed." There were questions such as "How is Buddhism different from Shinto?" and "When was Shinto established?" We took a break for a while at the café terrace near Meiji Shrine in the rain. After that we strolled along Takeshita Street and Cat Street, then headed to Shibuya. We moved to Shibuya. First we took photos looking down on Shibuya Scramble Square from the platform of the Keio Inokashira Line, then actually crossed the intersection. There were questions such as "Why do so many people gather here?" and "Are there more locals or more tourists?" We also took photos in front of the Hachiko statue and strolled through Center Gai. The guests asked and commented, "There are so many subway lines running; it must be hard to get around if you're not used to it," "Tokyo feels like a clean and safe city," and "There's no trash on the streets. So why are there no trash cans anywhere?" I saw them off at Higashi-ginza Station, ending the tour.

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Tour Report by Masa

Guiding career:
Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
Self-introduction:
In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
I am a certified CPA in the United States.
In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.