Category: Uncategorized

  • Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:30 Hotel pickup
    • 7:40-10:40 Visit Peace Memorial Park, Peace Memorial Museum
    • 10:55-11:40 World Heritage Sea Route from Motoyasu Bridge to Miyajima Port
    • 11:40-14:45 Miyajima, lunch, Itsukushima Shrine and more
    • 11:45-15:30 World Heritage Sea Route from Miyajima Port to Motoyasu Bridge, dismissal

    What Is a Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America who came to Japan and made a trip to Hiroshima during a break in their travels. They especially wanted to deepen their understanding of what the atomic bomb brought to Hiroshima, so I set aside extra time to spend at the Peace Memorial Park and the museum. In the park, the guests asked me many questions about what I explained, and in the museum they viewed each exhibit very carefully, one by one. On the ferry to Miyajima they shared their impressions with me, and it was a time of great learning for me as well. On Miyajima, the guests enjoyed lunch and a stroll around the island.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1JGA Pre-Approved FeePeace Park Motoyasu Pier~Miyajima2,200JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi~Hiroshima420JPY
    Section 3TrainHiroshima Station~Fukuromachi240JPY
    Section 4TrainAtomic Bomb Dome Mae~Miyajimaguchi660JPY
    Total3,520JPY

    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,…

  • Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour

    Hakone Full-Day Customized Private Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:22 Meet the guest boarding the Hakone No. 41 at Hakone-Yumoto Station
    • Stop by the ticket window to activate the Hakone Free Pass, and after preparations are complete, depart on the Hakone Tozan Railway
    • From Gora, take the cable car to Sounzan, transfer to the ropeway and move to Owakudani
    • Have lunch such as ramen and go shopping at Owakudani
    • Move to Togendai and board the pirate ship departing at 13:15
    • Get off at Motohakone Port and go to Hakone Shrine
    • After sightseeing, take the bus departing at 15:05 to Amazake-chaya
    • Board the bus departing at 16:10 and get off at Yumoto-Nakajuku. Move to Hakone Airu, guide them until check-in and finish

    What's a Full-Day Private Hakone Tour from Hakone-Yumoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Up until the day before, the itinerary and other details were arranged through a travel agency. Activating the Hakone Free Pass did not go smoothly on the day before and on the day itself, which took up some time, but in the end it worked out, and from there we were able to follow the itinerary as planned. Being able to cover the Golden Route plus the Amazake Chaya tea house from Hakone-Yumoto using only the Free Pass was something made possible by a tour with plenty of time to spare. The guests enjoyed shopping and grabbing snacks along the way, so it was great that they could have fun here and there throughout the day. Unfortunately, Mount Fuji was not visible, but the guests seemed to truly experience the beauty of Hakone with its early hints of autumn.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHakone-Yumoto~Gora460JPY
    Section 2TrainGora~Sounzan430JPY
    Section 3OtherSounzan~Togendai1,500JPY
    Section 4FerryTogendai Port~Motohakone Port (Hakone Pirate Ship)1,200JPY
    Section 5BusMotohakone Port/Hakone Tozan Bus~Amazake-chaya/Hakone Tozan Bus320JPY
    Section 6BusAmazake-chaya/Hakone Tozan Bus~Yumoto-Nakajuku/Hakone Tozan Bus550JPY
    Total4,460JPY

    Hi, I’m Naho – your friendly, English-speaking guide in Japan!
    With over 10 years of experience as a licensed guide and more than 30 years living in the Tokyo area, I’m passionate about helping travelers of all ages enjoy Japan in a fun, meaningful, and stress-free way.

    Whether you’re into ancient temples, seasonal nature, local street food, or modern pop culture, I’ll design a private tour that matches your interests and travel style. I love sharing not just the famous sights, but also lesser-known hidden gems and local tips that make your trip truly special.

    Traveling solo, as a couple, with friends, or with kids? I’ll make sure everyone feels comfortable and included. My goal is to create a warm, welcoming experience and unforgettable memories for you in this amazing country.

    Let’s explore Japan together — I can’t wait to meet you!

    May 27, 2026
    Chris T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo with Naho!
    We had a great time exploring the in…

    Apr 24, 2026
    Megaso1970
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour
    The tour was nicely planned and Naho is very nice and friendly.

    Apr 9, 2026
    B4204QCcarolc
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Once in a lifetime experience!
    I want to express are…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Dee R
    Great guided tour of notable Tokyo sites and experienced all modes of transportation with the great help of our guide…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Market & Akihabara

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji Market & Akihabara

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:50 Meet up @ the Hotel
    • 12:30 Tsukiji Market
    • 13:45 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 14:40 Lunch @ Kaiten Sushi Misaki Harajuku Takeshita Street Branch
    • 15:50 Imperial Palace
    • 16:45 Akihabara
    • 18:15 Disband @ the Hotel

    What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Harajuku, and Akihabara The guests were a group from Oceania visiting Japan for the first time. Before coming to Tokyo, they had already visited Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Hakone, and after sightseeing in Tokyo they planned to return home. At Tsukiji Market, they looked with great interest at the retail fish market and the many shops in the outer market. On Takeshita Street, one of the guests was very interested in a mini-pig café, while another purchased a T-shirt at a soccer goods shop near Takeshita Street. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with interest to historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo shogunate. In Akihabara, one of the guests bought souvenirs at shops selling anime figures and miniature cars. Since I responded to all of the guests' requests as they wished, I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAkasaka (Tokyo)~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Meiji-jingumae210JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijubashimae~Shin-Ochanomizu180JPY
    Section 5TrainOchanomizu~Akihabara150JPY
    Section 6OtherAkihabara~Akasaka210JPY
    Total1,140JPY

    I am Seizo Kamiuto, National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English). I was born in Kagoshima City in Kyushu (Southern part of Japan) and grew up there until the graduation from a high school. I came to Tokyo to enter a University in Tokyo and since then, I have lived in Tokyo for more than 40 years and therefore I know Tokyo and its suburbs and Kagoshima City very well. After retiring from an IT company, I have been working as a Guide Interpreter of English since March 2018. I have guided many overseas guests to the popular sightseeing spots in Tokyo, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji area (Kawaguchiko Lake etc.), Hakone, Nikko, Yokohama, Kawagoe and Kagoshima and so on. I have received good reviews from many guests. I can explain the history and the culture of Japan in detail. I look forward to an opportunity to guide you in Japan. Thank you. Seizo Kamiuto

    Sep 27, 2026
    jonaJ5014ZK
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Seizo was a tremendously fabulous…

    Sep 11, 2026
    M7402TTsharonp
    Higly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing tour with Seizi Kaminto.…

    Sep 8, 2026
    OnAir57127583503
    Amazing Experience with Kamakura Day Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    We had an excellent time with Seizo Kamiuto as our…

    Sep 4, 2026
    B2319ZKjoseo
    Pleasant stroll through HISTORY
    Tripadvisor review: Kawagoe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a great time learning about…

  • Kochi: Handmade Japanese Paper Experience & Kochi Shinko Port

    Kochi: Handmade Japanese Paper Experience & Kochi Shinko Port

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Taxi
    • 11:00 Handmade Japanese Paper Experience
    • 12:30 Lunch
    • 13:30 Taxi
    • 14:10 Kochi Castle
    • 15:10 Taxi
    • 15:30 Chikurin-ji Temple
    • 16:00 Taxi
    • 16:10 Kochi Shinko Port

    What's a Private Kochi Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Washi Paper-Making, Kochi Castle, and Chikurin-ji Temple The guests were visitors from North America. The handmade washi paper experience cost 6,000 yen per person, which is relatively expensive, but it was very well received because it covered the entire process starting from stripping the bark of the kozo (paper mulberry) plant, along with a chigiri-e torn-paper art activity. For lunch, the guests had hoped for a stylish restaurant where they could enjoy wine and similar drinks, but none could be found nearby, so we went to a self-service eatery close to the paper-making workshop. Their wish to try a little bit of many different dishes was fulfilled, so they were satisfied. Since the guests were interested in history, they also viewed Kochi Castle and Chikurin-ji Temple with great interest.

    Hi! I’m Kay.
    It’s my pleasure to be your guide.
    I was born and raised in Kochi city, and I worked for Kochi City Hall for nearly 30 years, so I think I know a lot about Kochi.

    Firstly, I can guide you to the Kochi castle. Most castles you can find in Japan have been rebuilt after fires, wars, or natural disasters. However, Kochi Castle is one of the very few castles that still have the whole structure of its original tower and the mail palace from the Edo period (1603–1868). This makes it especially valuable for understanding Japan’s history and traditional architecture. You’ll like it!

    Other major tourist sites are adventurous Ryugado limestone cave, Makino botanical garden, Chikurinji temple with historical stonesteps, Zenjibuji temple with the spectacular panoramic view, paper-making activity, Oboke gorge, Nakatsu gorge, Niyodo river with a historical bridge and so on.
    If you like sake, you can visit sake brewery, and if you are interested in walking local streets, you can stroll my neighborhood.

    Kochi is a small city, but it’s very popular among tourists for its beautiful nature and good food. I took my kids to rivers and mountains when they were little. If you are interested in those places, please ask me. And I know many good restaurants, too.
    I’m looking forward to enjoying them together with you!

    Jul 7, 2026
    A_J
    Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Excellent tour with Kay
    Had an amazing time with our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    romankU9693SM
    Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Our trip to Kochi
    Kay was a wonderful guide, very…

    May 28, 2026
    nancykotr
    Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Kay was a wonderful…
    Kay was a wonderful guide. We…

    Apr 22, 2026
    Jörg R
    Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Kochi Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Ein toller Ausflug in Kochi
    Pünktliche Abholung, kurze Transferzeiten…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel – 9:45 Tokyo Station – 10:30 Imperial Palace East Gardens – 11:50 Harajuku Lunch – 12:30 Shibuya Scramble Crossing – 13:15 Disband at Shibuya Station

    Can You Do a Private Tokyo Day Tour of the Imperial Palace East Gardens and Harajuku? A Licensed Guide's Report This was the second day of a private Tokyo tour with guests visiting from North America. On the way to the Imperial Palace East Gardens, which we could not visit the previous day because it was closed on Monday, I took them to the Shinkansen platform at Tokyo Station in preparation for their trip to Kyoto the next day, and then we walked toward the Imperial Palace East Gardens. The guests seemed to be in awe of the contrast between the four-hundred-year-old remains of Edo Castle and the modern high-rise buildings of Otemachi and Marunouchi. On the way to Shibuya, the guests requested vegan ramen for lunch, so we visited a specialty shop in Harajuku. They were surprised at how delicious the ramen broth was even in a vegan version, and they were able to fully enjoy Tokyo through both its scenery and its flavors.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTakeshiba~Tokyo340JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi (Tokyo)~Meiji-jingumae Station / Shibuya Ward, Tokyo210JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku~Shibuya150JPY
    Total700JPY

    Welcome to Japan. My name is Michio, your tour guide in Tokyo and Japan. I was born and grown up in Tokyo, and still living in western suburb of Tokyo with my wife, except for 10 years outside of Japan travelling and living in 60 countries. So I might have visited your country and still remember a few words.
    Japan has unique history, nature and culture, and there are plenty of secrets and wonders behind them such as food culture, Zen and Ninja.
    So please explore and discover the hidden and most beautiful part of Japan together. Let’s experience!

    Oct 25, 2025
    Carla_G
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking…
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our 4-hour Tokyo walking tour was fantastic! Michio…

    Oct 24, 2025
    410trishab
    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 10/10 — Outstanding Tour with Michio and Nobuhiko!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from…

    Oct 11, 2025
    GoPlaces52694049181
    We enjoyed our time in Tokyo with Michio our tour guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We…

    Oct 10, 2025
    PiscesV
    Sushi for breakfast at 630am? Yes please!!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace / Nijubashi Bridge & Ginza

    Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace / Nijubashi Bridge & Ginza

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 11:30 Imperial Palace / Nijubashi Bridge
    • 12:30 Tokyo Station
    • 13:00 Shinjuku Golden Gai
    • 14:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:00 Shibuya
    • 16:00 Ginza
    • 17:00 Tour ends at Shimbashi Station

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe who arrived in Japan the day before and planned to travel around the country over the coming two weeks. They had traveled extensively before and had put a great deal of enthusiasm into this trip, even studying some Japanese in preparation. This tour was arranged through [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides. To help the guests get to know the main areas of Tokyo, the private one-day tour started at the Imperial Palace, passed through Tokyo Station, and continued on to Shinjuku. In the Golden Gai area, they enjoyed the scheduled action of the Godzilla statue. Next, at Meiji Shrine, I explained the differences between Shinto and Buddhism, the influence each has had on Japanese culture, and the way people pray. The guests were deeply impressed to learn that much of the behavior and manners of Japanese people can be traced back to these roots. To let the guests experience as many places as possible, we finally made our way to Ginza, and the tour concluded at Shimbashi Station, the closest station to their accommodation.

    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 in Half a Day: Zuigu-do Hall & Pontocho

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Zuigu-do Hall & Pontocho

    Tour Itinerary

    • 15:30 Zuigu-do Hall
    • 16:00 Kiyomizu-dera Temple > Sannenzaka > Hokan-ji Temple
    • 16:45 Yasaka Koshin-do Hall > Ishibei-koji Alley
    • 17:30 Yasaka Shrine > Souvenir shop next to the Kanji Museum
    • 18:00 Hanamikoji Street > Tatsumi Bridge
    • 18:30 Pontocho
    • 18:50 Station building tour at JR Kyoto Station
    • 19:05 Dismissal in front of the hotel

    What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest had just arrived in Kyoto from Tokyo about an hour earlier. The guest was visiting from North America. We began with the darkness experience at Zuigudo Hall, and then continued to the stage of Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The guest showed great interest in all of the explanations and seemed to enjoy the tour very much. The guest appeared to love photography and took many pictures. In particular, upon seeing the lit lanterns in Gion, the guest was delighted, saying this was exactly what they had wanted to see. We also encountered geiko three times, and the guest was careful to refrain from taking photos when appropriate. The guest was very polite and waited patiently for photo spots to become available, and seemed to have a wonderful time. The guest also gave a tip.

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Peace Memorial Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Peace Memorial Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Cruise Ship Terminal Meet
    • 8:40-9:05 Travel to Hiroshima Station
    • 9:23-10:20 Travel to Miyajima
    • 10:25-12:50 Miyajima
    • 12:55-14:00 Peace Memorial Park
    • 14:00-15:30 Peace Memorial Park
    • 15:40-16:05 Travel to Cruise Ship Terminal
    • 16:10 Dismissal

    Can You Do a Private Cruise Port Day Tour in Japan? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from South America. Since they were cruise ship passengers, the tour was arranged so that they would be able to return to the cruise terminal by around 16:00 without fail. The tour was carried out with safety as the top priority, and as a result, we were able to complete it safely and on schedule. On this occasion, it was not possible to finalize the itinerary with the guests by the day before (the only contact came at 8:00 p.m. the previous night from one member of the group), so the original itinerary that had been prepared several weeks in advance had to be changed late the night before. The guests explained that the reason they had not replied despite several confirmations of the itinerary I had initially sent was that they had already accepted it. I truly felt the difference in how each side interpreted the situation. I apologize for the concern caused this time. Going forward, I would like to finalize the itinerary a little earlier.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima~Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi~Yokogawa (Hiroshima Prefecture)330JPY
    Section 3TrainYokogawa (Hiroshima Prefecture)~Atomic Bomb Dome240JPY
    Total990JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • Ritz-Carlton Kyoto 830→900 Bamboo Path & Tenryu-ji Temple 1000⇒1030 Ryoan-ji Temple 1115⇒1145 Tenkaippin Ramen 1230⇒1240 Kinkaku-ji Temple 1330→1345 Philosopher's Path 1415⇒1430 Hotel

    Can You Do a Flexible Private Day Tour of Kyoto with a Driver? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America who were touring Tokyo and Kyoto for a few days each, each stop accompanied by a private tour guide, before attending an international conference. Because they were hoping for a flexible itinerary, we proceeded by consulting with the driver and adjusting not only the order but also the destinations from the originally prepared plan, which I believe contributed to the guests' satisfaction. Within the time constraints, the driver's flexible provision of information and willingness to accommodate changes was also a key factor in the tour's success.

    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.

    Aug 7, 2026
    D1494MYdanielleg
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    One day walking tour in Tokyo
    Yoshi was great!…

    Aug 6, 2026
    dg89
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Private Führung in Kyoto
    Die Tour mit Yoshi war…

    Aug 3, 2026
    PaulaLondon2017
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A customized tour with guide around Kyoto
    We had…

    Jul 5, 2026
    788amarpals
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  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at hotel  8:50 Fushimi Inari  10:25 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove  11:20 Lunch (Sushi) 12:00 Kinkaku-ji   1:15 Gion   1:55 Pontocho
    • 2:30 Return to hotel and end tour

    Title: What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like for Guests with Limited Mobility? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Oceania. The tour included Fushimi Inari, the Arashiyama bamboo grove, a sushi lunch, Kinkaku-ji, Gion, and Pontocho. Since walking was difficult for one of the guests, I often walked ahead with the other and waited so that everyone could go at a comfortable pace. At Fushimi Inari, we avoided the stairs partway up and continued along an easier route. One of the guests enjoyed taking many photographs, so we took our time. At the Arashiyama bamboo grove, our driver kindly offered ideas so that the guests could reach the highlights while walking as little as possible. The guests were very satisfied with the sushi lunch. We visited Kinkaku-ji around midday, when it was relatively uncrowded, which worked out well. Toward the end, we were running short on time, so I guided the guests through the main highlights of Gion and Pontocho. The photo was taken at the Arashiyama bamboo grove.

    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…