Category: Uncategorized

  • Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima & Daishoin Temple

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima & Daishoin Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 14:30 Hotel meet
    • 15:30 Miyajima
    • 16:00 Itsukushima Shrine
    • 17:00 Daishoin Temple
    • 18:30 Hotel, dismissal

    What Is a Private Miyajima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Initially, the guests did not have a messaging app account, which made it difficult to confirm the meeting point. However, just before the tour was scheduled to begin, the guests sent a message to my messaging app account. At the very last minute, only ten minutes before the tour would have been cancelled, I entered the meeting point into the site, and the tour was able to proceed without any trouble. When we actually met, the guests were a very cheerful and lively group, and it was a truly enjoyable experience. At Miyajima, they even treated me to ice cream, and enjoying ice cream together while looking out over the summer sea was absolutely wonderful.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusIn front of Broadcasting Hall / Hiroshima Bus~Nishi-Hiroshima240JPY
    Section 2TrainNishi-Hiroshima~Miyajimaguchi330JPY
    Section 3TrainMiyajimaguchi~Nishi-Hiroshima330JPY
    Section 4BusNishi-Hiroshima~In front of the Atomic Bomb Dome240JPY
    Total1,140JPY

    Originally, I’m a cycling guide doing cycling tours all over Japan.
    But, already done Hiroshima & Miyajima tour more than 400 times.
    I traveled many countries in my younger days. I traveled Europe, US, China, India, US, Mexico, Peru Australia, NZ, and so on.
    I decided to use this experience to become a guide.
    I’m afraid but no tipping required, because cycling guides are not allowed to have tipping in my association. And you do not need to pay for my lunch, because my lunch is prepared by our group.
    Please do not hesitate to ask me anything, I’ll change the plan according to your requests.
    Thank you for your understanding and please stay connected.

    Jun 1, 2026
    John_W
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    A top day with a top guide
    My wife…

    May 27, 2026
    Annabelle_C
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima in a day
    Yuji was a great communicator…

    May 12, 2026
    satishp656
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    HIROSHIMA HALF DAY TOUR
    Yuji is a warm, knowledgeble…

    May 10, 2026
    StephanieB6076
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Incredible Experience
    We had an incredible experience visiting Hiroshima…

  • Aichi: Nagoya Castle & Guide ends at Starbucks in Sakae

    Aichi: Nagoya Castle & Guide ends at Starbucks in Sakae

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:50…Guide begins at Hotel
    • 10:00…Oasis 21 & Mirai Tower
    • 11:00…Nagoya Castle
    • 12:50…Lunch at "Hosa"
    • 14:00…Osu Kannon & Osu Shopping District
    • 15:00…Atsuta Shrine
    • 16:00…Guide ends at Starbucks in Sakae

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Nagoya Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report We were able to meet 10 minutes earlier than scheduled, so we started the guide right away. Since the guests' hotel was near Oasis 21, we set off on foot. I took photos for them at a spot where Spaceship Aqua and Mirai Tower were visible. We climbed up to Spaceship Aqua and looked down over Hisaya-odori Avenue from above. Since admission to the third floor of Mirai Tower is free, I guided them there as well. The guests wished to take a break at the Starbucks inside Oasis 21, so we rested there for a while. They kindly treated me to an iced coffee. We took the subway to Nagoya Castle. It was relatively uncrowded, and the weather was not too hot, making it comfortable. On the way we came across two people in samurai attire, so the guests had their photo taken together with them. We had lunch at a restaurant called "Hosa" near Nagoya Castle. The guests ordered tendon and said it was delicious. They kindly treated me to my meal as well. We took a taxi to Osu Kannon, where I explained the history of Osu Kannon. They listened with great interest. In the shopping arcade, they visited the kimono hall of "Komehyo." Since a sumo banner was visible in the arcade, I guided them there and explained, "This is a practice venue for sumo wrestlers taking part in the Nagoya tournament." The guests mentioned they would be watching sumo the next day, so they observed it very keenly. We moved by subway to Atsuta Shrine, where I shared the history and stories of Atsuta Shrine. We returned to Sakae by subway and ended the guide in front of Starbucks. The guests were delighted and said they had a wonderful time.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwaySakae (Aichi)~Nagoya Castle210JPY
    Section 2SubwayKamimaezu~Atsuta Jingu Nishi240JPY
    Section 3SubwayAtsuta Jingu Nishi~Sakae (Aichi)240JPY
    Total690JPY

    Hi, everyone! I’m Yuriko Suematsu, a government licensed tour guide. Please call me Lily, because Yuri means Lily in English.
    I like Japanese history, culture, and Japanese castles. Especially, I like tea ceremony in kimono.(I’m also a licensed kimono dresser.)
    So, I sometimes guide around Takayama, Shirakawa-go, Kyoto, Kanazawa, Osaka, Nara and Nagoya in kimono.
    There are lots of beautiful places to visit in Japan.
    Especially, I recommend you to visit Kyoto and Nara if you are interested in Japanese ancient history. Nara and Kyoto are both ancient capital cities over 1000 years ago.
    I also recommend you to visit Gifu(Shirakawa-go and Takayama), my hometown if you want to enjoy rural nostalgic atmosphere.
    If you’re interested in Japanese castles, I recommend you to visit Himeji, Osaka, Kanazawa and Nagoya. I’m sure you will have a wonderful time to see beautiful castles.
    Let’s enjoy Japanese culture and history together!

    Apr 16, 2026
    maerlaeb
    Wonderful tour on the Nakasendo Trail
    Tripadvisor review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Trail Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had the…

    Apr 14, 2026
    Andrew K
    Tripadvisor review: Takayama Half-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Wonderful Tour
    Highly recommended! Yuriko-san was so knowledgeable and patient.…

    Oct 23, 2025
    Sydney_N
    We had a wonderful tour…
    Viator review: Takayama Half-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful tour in…

    Sep 12, 2025
    Cornishgirl22
    Wonderful tour of Takayama
    Tripadvisor review: Takayama Half-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Lily contacted me a few weeks before…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Hamarikyu & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Hamarikyu & Asakusa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at Hotel Metropolitan Marunouchi > Explanation of the itinerary, installation of Mobile Welcome Suica, explanation about the Shinkansen entrance, etc.
    • 10:00 Hamarikyu
    • 11:35 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 12:45 Snack @ Hotel Building branch
    • 13:20 Meiji Shrine
    • 14:50 Asakusa (Skytree photo)
    • 15:40 Disband at Akihabara

    What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather was fairly good, and the tour proceeded pleasantly. As it was the guests' first day in Japan, some time was needed to explain the Japanese transportation system and the Mobile Welcome Suica. Since the guests wished to see a garden, I first took them to Hamarikyu. They were delighted to see the beauty of the garden and its various buildings. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, I spoke about history and plants. The guests were familiar with "Shogun," which made the conversation lively. At Meiji Shrine, they were pleased by the rich greenery and the simple beauty of the shrine. In Asakusa, they were impressed and delighted to see the Skytree (the air was very clear that day). As the guests took many photos and the schedule was running behind, the tour was concluded just outside Suehirocho Station. A tip was received.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTokyo~Shimbashi150JPY
    Section 2Free PassShimbashi~Takebashi700JPY
    Section 3Free PassOtemachi~Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 4Free PassMeiji-jingumae~Asakusa0JPY
    Section 5Free PassAsakusa~Suehirocho0JPY
    Total850JPY

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Guided them to Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple

    Tokyo in One Day: Guided them to Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet at the Hotel lobby. In advance we had discussed that the places they wanted to visit were Sensoji Temple and the Imperial Palace, and that they would leave the other destinations up to the guide, so we consulted. In doing so, I heard that they had arrived at Narita on July 12 and gone to Asakusa on the 13th, and upon inquiring further I found that they had also visited Sensoji Temple. As a result of our discussion, we decided to first head to the Imperial Palace no matter what, and then decide the other destinations as we consulted along the way. Since there were also time periods when heavy rain was expected due to Typhoon No. 5, we decided to determine where to go while watching the weather. First we headed to the Imperial Palace.
    • 09:40-10:50 We got off the subway at the National Diet Building, and while showing them the National Diet Building, I guided them to Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, and the Imperial Palace Main Gate. After finishing, we discussed the next place and decided to go to the Tsukiji Outer Market.
    • 11:15-11:40 Guided them to Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple.
    • 11:40-12:15 Guided them to the Tsukiji Outer Market. While walking, they asked, "Is there a place where we can easily eat sushi?" so we decided to go to a Sushizanmai conveyor belt sushi restaurant.
    • 12:15-13:00 Lunch (Sushizanmai conveyor belt sushi restaurant at the Tsukiji Outer Market). From there I guided them to Namiyoke Shrine. During lunch, we consulted and decided to go to the Shibuya Scramble Crossing next.
    • 13:45-14:15 In Shibuya, I guided them to Hachiko, the Scramble Crossing, and Shibuya Yokocho. After finishing, we consulted and decided to guide them to Meiji Shrine.
    • 14:30-15:20 Guided them to Meiji Shrine.
    • 15:20 The guests wanted to take a stroll along Omotesando, so I explained how to return to Shinjuku on the Yamanote Line from Harajuku Station and said goodbye.

    What's a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like for Guests from Europe? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe, with the tour booked by one of the group. They arrived at Narita and spent the previous day activating their JAPAN RAIL PASS at Shinjuku Station, visiting Senso-ji Temple, and enjoying a dinner restaurant where they could watch sumo performed by retired wrestlers. As a result, the only request made in advance had become the Imperial Palace, so we first headed to the Imperial Palace and then decided on the next destinations along the way, which led to the route noted in the tour itinerary. As we talked, many questions came up about trends in Japanese society, so I explained in detail about Japan's declining birthrate, the state of economic development, the participation of women in the workforce, and more. At the same time, understanding that their country is known as a high-welfare society, I also asked them about how things currently stand there as we went along. The guests remarked that Japan seemed to have been Americanized to a greater degree than they had expected, and I agreed that this aspect is indeed strong, so we exchanged views as I guided them around the various sites. For lunch at a sushi restaurant, they were very fond of the seared fatty tuna and were quite satisfied, so bringing them there was the right choice. When we parted, they told me, "Today I understood a great deal about Japanese society. Thank you very much," so I thanked them in return, saying, "It is I who should thank you, as I learned a great deal about your society from you," and we said goodbye.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassShinjuku~Kokkai-gijidomae700JPY
    Section 2Free PassNijubashimae~Tsukiji0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTsukiji~Shibuya0JPY
    Section 4Free PassShibuya~Meiji-jingumae (Harajuku)0JPY
    Total700JPY

    I acquired national guide license in 2014, and I have been doing guide work full fledged since 2016. In my career before starting guide work, I was a business man and made more than 1,000 business trips both abroad and in Japan, and that experience is my foundation as a guide because I came to know so many places both abroad and in Japan. I have been taking care of both group and individual tourists, and the number of foreign guests I have taken care is close to 2,500 so far. I am based in Tokyo, but I can cover guide work in many prefectures throughout Japan. When I take care of foreign guests, my major concern is to listen attentively to them, find out what they want to know and do in Japan, and give them appropriate guiding in accordance with what I heard from my guests. I would like to provide tailor made tour as much as possible for every precious guest who kindly chose Japan as the tour destination.

    Aug 1, 2025
    8
    898kendrap
    Great first day in Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Asai, our tour guide, made our…

    Jul 14, 2025
    Anette_V
    Perfect
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide Minoru Asai was very friendly and knowledgeable about culture,…

    Jun 30, 2025
    liammL2246HL
    Amazing experience
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing private tour with Minoru Asai! We…

    Jun 26, 2025
    394milesd
    Excellent guide making an excellent day in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A perfect day, tailored…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Hotel – 11:00 Meiji Shrine – 12:00 Harajuku Takeshita Street – 12:45 Shibuya Crossing – 13:30 Lunch – 14:20 Tsukiji Outer Market – 15:15 Asakusa Sensoji Temple – 16:15 Hotel Dismissal

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Tokyo Like with a Licensed Guide? A Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania, on the first day of a tour covering Tokyo and the Kansai region. Some of the guests had visited Japan two years earlier, while others were visiting Japan for the first time. The tour began with light rain, but we were lucky as the rain stopped and the weather turned pleasantly mild, not too hot. Since part of the group used a stroller and part walked, it became a slower-paced tour, but for lunch I chose a long-established sushi restaurant in Tsukiji. The guests enjoyed the sushi fully, even with the wasabi left in, and it turned into a day where energy was recharged and spirits were suddenly restored. This private tour was provided 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 serving all 47 prefectures.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShiodome~Yoyogi220JPY
    Section 2BusJingumae 1-chome / Toei Bus~Shibuya Station West Exit / Toei Bus210JPY
    Section 3SubwayShibuya~Tsukiji210JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji~Asakusa210JPY
    Section 5TrainAsakusa (TX)~Shimbashi380JPY
    Total1,230JPY

    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: Tsukiji & Akihabara

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Akihabara

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at The B Akasaka
    • 9:30 Tsukiji
    • 10:50 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:50 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 13:00 Asakusa (After taking Skytree photos, buy and eat snacks at Seven-Eleven)
    • 14:30 Akihabara
    • 15:00 Disband at Akihabara

    What Is a Private Full-Day Tokyo Tour Like? Tsukiji, Harajuku, Asakusa, and Akihabara: A Licensed Guide's Report The weather was changeable, with rain coming and going, but the only heavy rain lasted about 20 minutes at Tsukiji, so the tour proceeded smoothly. The guests already had an ICOCA card, which helped the tour move along smoothly. At Tsukiji, we focused on the two buildings of the outer market, and the guests were very interested in the fresh fish and the tuna. They bought some whitebait. It rained on and off around Meiji Shrine, but it cleared up by the time we reached Takeshita Street. On Takeshita Street, the guests enjoyed some fashionable shopping. In Asakusa, after taking photos of the Skytree, they bought some snacks at a convenience store and enjoyed them. They commented that Japanese food was delicious. After guiding them around the main areas of Akihabara, we ended the tour at a shop. The guests kindly gave me a souvenir they had brought from North America. Overall, the conversation flowed well, and I believe they enjoyed themselves.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassAkasaka~Tsukiji700JPY
    Section 2Free PassTsukiji~Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 3Free PassMeiji-jingumae~Asakusa0JPY
    Section 4Free PassAsakusa~Kanda0JPY
    Total700JPY

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…

  • Gifu: Ichikokutochi Tateba Teahouse & Tsumago-juku

    Gifu: Ichikokutochi Tateba Teahouse & Tsumago-juku

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet up @ Nakatsugawa Station
    • 09:55 Board the bus (Nakatsugawa Station → Magome)
    • 10:20 Arrive at Magome & start trekking
    • 11:00 Lunch @ Juri
    • 13:00 Arrive at Ichikokutochi Tateba Teahouse
    • 13:30 Arrive at Odaki & Medaki Falls
    • 14:30 Arrive at Tsumago-juku
    • 16:10 Disband on the train bound for Nagoya

    What Is the Nakasendo Magome-to-Tsumago Trek Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. Since they were interested in Japanese history and samurai, we trekked while I mainly talked about Japanese history related to the samurai. The start time was moved one hour earlier at the guests' request. In Magome, we enjoyed a tasting at a sake shop and had a pleasant conversation with the owner. We had lunch at a restaurant. After enjoying the Ichikokutochi Tateba Chaya rest house, Odaki Falls, and Medaki Falls, we arrived at Tsumago-juku. The guests had ice cream at a cafe, then boarded the train departing from Nagiso Station, where we parted ways inside the train. They enjoyed both the history and the nature, and were very satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusNakatsugawa Station Front / Kitaena Kotsu~Magome / Kitaena Kotsu800JPY
    Section 2BusTsumago / Nagiso Town, Nagano Prefecture~Nagiso Station / Nagiso Town, Nagano Prefecture300JPY
    Section 3OtherNagiso Station / Nagiso Town, Nagano Prefecture~Nakatsugawa Station Front / Kitaena Kotsu660JPY
    Total1,760JPY

    Welcome to Japan! My name is Ryota Tsuchiya, and I am honored to be your guide during your journey in Japan.

    With a deep passion for Japanese culture, history, and craftsmanship, I specialize in creating immersive travel experiences that go beyond sightseeing. My tours are designed to introduce you to the true essence of Japan—through hands-on experiences, engaging storytelling, and personal connections with local artisans and experts.

    I have lived and studied abroad, gaining a deep appreciation for cross-cultural exchange. This background allows me to bridge the gap between Japan and international visitors, making history and traditions more accessible and enjoyable for you.

    Based in Nagoya, I offer exclusive tours across central Japan, including Aichi, Gifu, Mie, and Shiga. Whether you are interested in exploring historic castles, learning traditional calligraphy, visiting artisan workshops, or experiencing local festivals, I guide each tour to match your interests and curiosity.

    My goal is to ensure that your journey is not only memorable but also meaningful. I want you to leave Japan with a deeper understanding of its culture and a collection of unforgettable experiences.

    Let’s embark on an extraordinary journey together. I look forward to sharing the wonders of Japan with you!

    Jul 14, 2025
    wuschaefer
    A wonderful hike with stunning views
    Tripadvisor review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Trail Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a…

    Jul 11, 2025
    cindydZ5063DM
    Amazing
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was very knowledgeable, gracious and friendly. My day…

    Jul 8, 2025
    Amanda_P
    Nagoya
    Viator review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    The tour was amazing!!! Yoshi contacted us right away…

    Jul 4, 2025
    844roryb
    Nakasendo day hike
    Tripadvisor review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing walk along an ancient route…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Karasuma & Gion

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Karasuma & Gion

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Kyoto Sanjo
    • 9:20 Karasuma
    • 9:25 Katsura
    • 9:34 Katsura
    • 9:41 Arashiyama
    • 10:00 Tenryu-ji Temple, Sagano Bamboo Grove, Arashiyama Park
    • 11:14 Arashiyama
    • 11:22 Katsura
    • 11:26 Katsura
    • 11:33 Kyoto Kawaramachi
    • 11:50 Gion (Hanamikoji, Kennin-ji Temple)
    • 13:00 Yasaka Shrine, disband

    What Does a Private Kyoto Day Tour of Arashiyama and Gion Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report We were fortunate that it did not rain in the morning. The first part of the itinerary was Tenryu-ji Temple and the Sagano Bamboo Grove. At Tenryu-ji, the guests were deeply moved by the Sogenchi Garden, the beauty of the large pond and trees seen from the bench, the full view of Tenryu-ji from the hill, and the views over Kyoto City. Next, we went to the Sagano Bamboo Grove. The guests were impressed by the beautiful roughly 400-meter stretch of bamboo and took photographs. Next, we visited Arashiyama Park. The guests were moved by the view of the Hozu River from the observation deck, the riverside walking path, and the view from Togetsukyo Bridge, and they took photographs. Next, we went to Hanamikoji Street, where the guests admired the traditional Kyoto townscape and the buildings of Kennin-ji Temple. Finally, we visited Yasaka Shrine, affectionately known as "Gion-san." The guests seemed interested in the explanation that the reason it is called "Gion-san" comes from the fact that Yasaka Shrine was known as "Gion-sha" until 1868, and that the Gion Festival is held for one month each year, from July 1 to July 31, in central Kyoto and at Yasaka Shrine. It was a wonderful group who got along very well.

    I have been an English teacher since 1979. In 2024, I obtained the national qualification of Certified Guide Interpreter.
    Currently, after retiring, I teach English as a part-time lecturer at a Hyogo Prefectural High School.
    My hobbies are tennis, table tennis, traveling, studying English, and Japanese history.
    I play tennis and table tennis twice a week. I love traveling because I can see beautiful scenery and learn about Japanese history.
    I chose Kyoto and Nara prefectures as my guiding locations. Both were once the capitals of Japan.
    Kyoto was the residence of emperors from 794 to 1868 and was a stage for Japanese history.
    It has beautiful scenery, Japanese history, magnificent buildings and gardens, and delicious food.
    I would like to share the charms of Japan with foreign tourists as much as possible.
    I live in Amagasaki City, which is adjacent to Osaka. Kyoto is a little far from my home,
    but I would like to leave home early in the morning and enjoy traveling with my guests.
    Thank you for your consideration.

    Mar 30, 2026
    MrJames_L
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Great tour with Kaji
    We had an excellent…

    Jul 3, 2025
    Radit T
    Worthwhile private tour on our first full day in Kyoto!
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle…

    Jun 7, 2025
    Lisa_H
    Great tour guide and driver
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Overall a great…

  • Nagasaki: Matsugae International Terminal & Nagasaki Stadium City

    Nagasaki: Matsugae International Terminal & Nagasaki Stadium City

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:15 Matsugae International Terminal
    • 08:30 Nagasaki Museum of History and Culture
    • 10:20 Suwa Shrine (from the vehicle window)
    • 10:30 Oura Cathedral
    • 11:15 Chinatown (2 people get off)
    • 11:40 Nagasaki Stadium City
    • 14:00 Matsugae International Terminal (disband)

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Car Tour of Nagasaki? A Licensed Guide's Report Even though this was a tour with a vehicle, given the extreme heat and the fact that some of the guests were older, both the guide and the guests prioritized finishing the day without any problems. For this reason, I focused as much as possible on indoor facilities. At the Nagasaki Museum of History and Culture, the guests took a great interest in the history and culture of Nagasaki, carefully viewing each and every exhibit. At Oura Cathedral, I asked the guests whether it was all right to take them there since there are stairs, and they said they would give it a try at that point, so I took them there once. Meanwhile, some of the guests rested at a nearby café during that time. After that, some of the guests said they would like to relax in Chinatown, so I parted ways with them there. Nagasaki Stadium City was very well received!! We had a meal together at a terrace seat overlooking the stadium. As I am personally a supporter of the football team, I was very happy that they enjoyed it. Since the guests had already visited Hiroshima beforehand, there was a request to go somewhere other than the Atomic Bomb Museum, so instead I explained the history of why the stadium is called the Peace Stadium, and we were able to reflect together on peace through football.

    Hello, I’m Rikako, but please call me Coco. It would be my absolute pleasure to show you around my hometown of Nagasaki. Having performed in the Nagasaki Kunchi Festival in my childhood, I developed a deep interest in history and cultural exchange. This motivated me to become a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter during my university years. Since then, I have gained valuable experience—from assisting ambassadors at the Nagasaki Peace Memorial Ceremony to handling a wide variety of tours, including private and coach tours, site inspections, international conference support, and VIP hospitality.
    Explaining about Nagasaki’s history and culture is the most important to me. It is not only about this. I would love to provide genuine care so that your time in Nagasaki remains in your heart forever.
    I’m truly looking forward to guiding you in Nagasaki 🙂

    Jul 21, 2026
    Dawnery_V
    Viator review: Nagasaki Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Beautiful city. Great guide.
    Rikako was a great guide. She…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Todd_C
    Viator review: Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Had a very nice…
    Had a very nice experience. Coco was very…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Explore34946025848
    Tripadvisor review: Nagasaki Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nagasaki
    Really good day out with a local guide, very informative about…

    Apr 4, 2026
    Giovanni_M
    Viator review: Nagasaki Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Good
    Nagasaki is a very interesting tour
    I would recommend…

  • Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM8:30 Meet at Hotel
    • AM9:15 Osaka Castle Park
    • AM11:15 Shinsekai
    • PM12:00 Kuromon Market
    • PM13:15 Dotonbori

    What Is a Private Osaka Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shinsekai, Kuromon Market, and Dotonbori The guests were friends visiting from North America who appeared very active. We enjoyed target shooting in Shinsekai, and I was amazed that every shot hit the prizes. They found it interesting to learn that Osaka suffered major air raids during the Second World War, and that Osaka Castle was under U.S. military administration for a time after the war. They also commented that there is much to learn from Japan, such as the cleanliness of Japanese towns, the kindness of the people, and the quality of service. They kindly invited me to lunch at Kuromon Market, and the tour ended at Dotonbori. Although the crowds were thin due to the sweltering heat, I had a wonderful time with the energetic guests.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOsaka~Osaka Castle Park180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Ebisucho240JPY
    Section 3SubwayEbisucho~Nipponbashi (Osaka)190JPY
    Total610JPY

    I am Naoki Nakatani. I live in Osaka.
    I started tour guide from 2023 after 40 years
    work experience in Japanese manufacturing company. I am currently teaching Japanese as volunteer staff to foreign residents who live in my community. I have 11 and half years work experience in overseas office and I had interacted with people of foreign countries for a long time enjoying business and friendship with them. My guide experience is still short but I will provide my best service to the guests. I am in a position to prepare the itinerary if guests request and to send any information for the guest to make plan before visit to Japan.

    Jul 11, 2026
    Trevor_F
    Viator review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    4 hour Private Tour
    Naomi was our guide and did a…

    Jun 6, 2026
    May_O
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful time in Kyoto
    We had a terrific time with Naoki. He…

    May 1, 2026
    Sanfrancisco820
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Choose Naoki – you will have a great day!!
    Naoki is an…

    Mar 28, 2026
    Tanya_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great guide
    Naoki was very kind and knowledgeable He knew the best…