Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Mikane Shrine

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Mikane Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:00 Meet @ Hotel Resol Kyoto
    • Transport: Keihan Railway
    • 7:40 -8:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • Transport: Keihan Railway
    • 9:00-9:30 Yasaka Shrine
    • 9:30-10:00 Hanamikoji Street
    • Transport: Keihan Railway, Kyoto Municipal Subway
    • 10:40-11:40 Nijo Castle
    • Transport: On foot
    • 11:50-12:00 Mikane Shrine
    • Transport: On foot
    • 12:30 Disband @ Teramachi Oike

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Yasaka Shrine, and Nijo Castle The guests were a friendly and well-mannered group. There were plenty of sights on the way from the hotel to Sanjo Keihan, and they listened attentively to my explanations of the Takase River and Pontocho. At Fushimi Inari, one of the guests bowed at the torii gate at the entrance without being prompted, which impressed me, so I applauded and praised them. They were the type who wanted to try everything, and they experienced washing their hands at the temizuya, praying at the main hall, and lifting the Omokaru stone at the Senbon Torii. When I mentioned that Higashimaru Shrine at the entrance is good for academics, one of the guests happily paid a visit. On the way back, there were food stalls in front of the torii, so one of the guests enjoyed a 10-yen bread. The group also enjoyed takoyaki together. They were very impressed watching the takoyaki vendor quickly flip the takoyaki so they wouldn't burn. Then we moved on to Yasaka Shrine. Since it's like a general trading company of shrines, one of the guests happily took photos next to the Ebisu shrine, and when I explained that the water at Utsukushi Gozen Shrine is good for beauty, one of the guests happily washed their face. When I explained that the sword shrine is effective for cutting ties, one of the guests prayed to be free from injuries. Then we moved to Hanamikoji. I explained about the living quarters of geisha, and since the dances of the five hanamachi were being held at Minamiza just then, I introduced each hanamachi while looking at the posters. We passed briefly through Miyagawacho, and I showed them the bronze statue of Izumo no Okuni, then we took the Keihan train again to Sanjo, transferred to the Kyoto City Subway, and went to Nijo Castle. Normally I only guide the Ninomaru Palace and Ninomaru Garden, but since they wanted to walk the full loop and we had time, we also went around the Honmaru area. The originally proposed itinerary was supposed to end at Mikane Shrine, but since they asked where would be a good place to eat lunch, and it wasn't too far to walk, I guided them to the International Manga Museum, which the guests would likely enjoy, told them there was a cafe inside, took them to Teramachi Oike, explained that they could enjoy shopping and dining there, and said goodbye. The photo was taken just after one of the guests purchased the 10-yen bread at Fushimi Inari Taisha. Since it was still early in the morning, I took the photo here.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSanjo Keihan~Fushimi Inari220JPY
    Section 2TrainFushimi Inari~Gion-Shijo220JPY
    Section 3TrainGion-Shijo~Sanjo170JPY
    Section 4TrainSanjo Keihan~Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Total830JPY

    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!

    May 18, 2026
    WENDY_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent day out
    The trip was really well planned and organised, it…

    Sep 21, 2025
    joshsJ915FC
    Super tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Really wonderful tour of markets and geisha district.…

    Jun 16, 2025
    Chanyl C
    Highly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My husband and I really enjoyed the Kyoto tour.…

    May 18, 2025
    Steve J
    A relaxing, enjoyable visit to Arashiyama.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Satori was very kind and…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Sensoji Temple

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Sensoji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:20 Meet up @ Hotel
    • 10:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:30 Imperial Palace
    • 12:20 Lunch @ Hakata Menbo Aka no Noren (Marunouchi Building)
    • 13:30 Sensoji Temple
    • 14:50 Disband @ Hotel

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and Senso-ji The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They planned to travel to Kyoto after sightseeing in Tokyo. At Meiji Shrine, they seemed impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere. They also purchased a charm from Meiji Shrine as a souvenir. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with great interest to historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo Shogunate. At Senso-ji, they were interested to hear about the differences between temples and shrines, as well as about Kaminarimon Gate. Since I responded to the guests' requests as they wished, I believe they were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNishi-Shinjuku~Meiji-jingumae700JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Nijubashimae0JPY
    Section 3TrainTokyo~Ueno170JPY
    Section 4SubwayUeno~Asakusa0JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa~Nishi-Shinjuku0JPY
    Total870JPY

    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

    Jul 10, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Beautiful Tour of Kamakura
    Seizo Kamiuto was out…

    Jun 9, 2026
    stacy_grana
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with an experienced guide
    Our guide, Seizo, was amazing.…

    Jun 6, 2026
    U9351HJjakes
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Seizo Kamiuto was great and super knowledgeable. He had a…

    May 20, 2026
    HugoJ670
    Tripadvisor review: Edo Tokyo & Japanese Culture Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Tokio in de zon
    Seizo Kaminto is een uitstekende…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:30 Meet at Shinjuku-ku Shinjuku 7-26-61 (Airbnb)
    • 2. 11:15 East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
    • 3. 12:45 Lunch (Nezu Matsuyoshi)
    • 4. 13:45 Nezu Shrine
    • 5. 14:15 Yanaka
    • 6. 15:00 Akihabara
    • 7. 16:00 Harajuku (Takeshita Street)
    • 8. 16:30 Disband at Meiji-jingumae Station

    Title: What's a Private Full-Day Walking Tour of Tokyo Like for a Family? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They had arrived in Japan the day before and were staying in Tokyo before heading to Kyoto, on a ten-day trip around Japan in total. Rather than a hotel, the group was using a private accommodation, so I confirmed the address and met them there. On this private full-day tour, I guided them through the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, Nezu Shrine, Yanaka, Akihabara, and Harajuku (Takeshita Street). Some of the guests listened attentively and asked questions at each spot, while another seemed a little bored. Giving explanations that appeal to everyone in a group is certainly challenging, and I was reminded once again of the difficulty of guiding a family. It was quite a hot day for June, so I made sure everyone, including myself, stayed well hydrated to avoid heatstroke, and I gave my explanations in shady spots. We reached the scheduled end time of the tour just after finishing Takeshita Street. Since the guests planned to return to their accommodation on their own, I explained the way back and we parted at Meiji-jingumae Station.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Shinjuku~Otemachi220JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi~Nezu178JPY
    Section 3TrainNippori~Akihabara167JPY
    Section 4SubwaySuehirocho~Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Total774JPY

    Hello, I’m Haruhiko Yokota, a certified tour guide based in Tokyo and a top-ranked guide registered with JGA Inc. Please feel free to call me Haru.
    I’ve been living in Tokyo for about 30 years and conducted close to 200 tours between 2023 and 2025. I’m very familiar with most major sightseeing spots in and around Tokyo, ranging from traditional temples and shrines to modern attractions. I also enjoy traveling throughout Japan, which has given me extensive knowledge of popular destinations across the country.
    I’m happy to customize your tour to match your interests and preferences. If you have any requests or questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. I’ll do my best to make your tour both enjoyable and memorable!

    Jul 13, 2026
    529gregj
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Haru is an excellent guide in Tokyo
    Haru (Haruhiko…

    Jul 12, 2026
    Felice R
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Touring gardens in Tokyo with the perfect guide , Haru…

    Jul 9, 2026
    mariee530
    An incredible walking tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This tour was beyond expectations!…

    Jun 30, 2026
    simonegN55VE
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fabulous walking tour with Haru
    Haru was fabulous! We booked the tour…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Asakusa

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hotel Century Southern Tower
    • 9:20 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:05 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 13:15 Asakusa (Skytree photos)
    • 14:55 Dismiss at Pokemon Shop Nihonbashi

    What Is a Private Full-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and Asakusa It was a hot day with sunny skies and occasionally strong sunshine. Since the guests did not have a transportation IC card and would be leaving Japan the next day, I had them purchase JR tickets and a 24-hour subway pass, and we proceeded with the tour. Some of the guests seemed restless, while others tired easily in the heat, so we took frequent breaks and spent extra time shopping as we went. At Meiji Shrine, we received many questions about religion. At the Imperial Palace, we received questions about the Imperial family, and at Senso-ji Temple, we received many questions about Buddhism and about Senso-ji itself. In Asakusa, we spent a lot of time on Nakamise Street, and because the weather was harsh, I discussed the plan with the guests and, at their request, we skipped the originally planned Akihabara and Shibuya. Instead, since they wanted somewhere they could buy Pokémon items, we went to the Pokémon Shop Nihonbashi, where the tour concluded.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Harajuku146JPY
    Section 2TrainMeiji-jingumae~Takebashi700JPY
    Section 3TrainOtemachi~Asakusa0JPY
    Section 4TrainAsakusa~Nihonbashi0JPY
    Total846JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Hiroshima: hypocenter and the Atomic Bomb Dome & Hiroshima Castle

    Hiroshima: hypocenter and the Atomic Bomb Dome & Hiroshima Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet at Hotel
    • 09:05 Move to the hypocenter and the Atomic Bomb Dome
    • 09:15 Visit the Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Park, and Peace Memorial Museum
    • 10:45 Visit Hondori
    • 11:50  Stroll through Shukkeien Garden
    • 12:35 Visit Hiroshima Castle
    • 13:00 Disband at Hotel

    What Is a Private Guided Tour of Hiroshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a lovely group visiting Japan from North America. They were on a 20-day trip covering places from Hokkaido in the north to Hiroshima in the south. It seems they had traveled all the way to Hiroshima at the request of one of the guests, and they asked many enthusiastic questions throughout the tour. To avoid overlapping with the itinerary I had shared in advance, they visited a museum of contemporary art after arriving in Hiroshima the previous day. I truly appreciated their thoughtfulness. Although the weather was rainy due to the seasonal rains, I was delighted that they listened attentively during the tour of the memorial monuments. I was glad they enjoyed not only the peace-related sites but also Hondori shopping street, Shukkeien Garden, and Hiroshima Castle.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHatchobori Station~Shukkeien-mae Station240JPY
    Total240JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in One Day: Shiodome Station & Shinjuku Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Shiodome Station & Shinjuku Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: Conrad Tokyo
    • 9:10 Depart Shiodome Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 9:20 Arrive Tsukiji Market Station
    • Tsukiji Tsukiji Outer Market
    • Tsukiji Uogashi
    • 10:30 Depart Tsukiji Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line)
    • Ueno Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 11:00 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Senso-ji Temple
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • 12:00 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 12:30 Arrive Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Takeshita Street
    • Cat Street
    • 13:30 Depart Meiji-jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 13:40 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 14:30 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 14:40 Arrive Shinjuku Station
    • Shinjuku Kabukicho
    • Shinjuku Golden Gai
    • Omoide Yokocho
    • 15:30 Depart Shinjuku Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 16:00 Shiodome Station
    • 16:00 Dismissal: Shiodome Station

    Title: What Can You See in One Day in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Private Tour Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America. This was a short visit of only three days, staying only in Tokyo, and they wished to see as many spots in the city as possible. They had arrived at Haneda Airport the previous evening on a direct flight and taken a taxi to their hotel. The [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private one-day tour of Tokyo covering the city's main highlights, as the guests requested. They mentioned they were planning to attend a "sumo show" in the evening. It was a hot and humid day under fine weather. Starting from Shiodome Station, we first went to Tsukiji. I explained the history of Tokyo's fish markets since the Edo period, and the difference between Toyosu Market and the Tsukiji Outer Market. We first looked around Tsukiji Uogashi, and then went to the Outer Market. We bought and sampled tuna sushi, grilled crab, and strawberry daifuku. There were questions and comments such as "Do all Tokyo residents come here to buy fish?" and "It's crowded, but it looks like there are a lot of tourists." Next we went to Asakusa, which as always was crowded with large numbers of people. Starting from the front of Kaminarimon Gate, I explained the history of Sensoji Temple and the transition from Edo to Tokyo, the purpose of the five-story pagoda, an overview of Buddhism, and the difference between Buddhism and Shinto. We took commemorative photos in front of Kaminarimon and strolled slowly along the Nakamise shopping street. There were questions such as "What are the main religions in Japan?", "How many Buddhists are there in Japan?", and "Besides Buddhism, what other religions do people follow?" We moved to Harajuku and visited Meiji Shrine. I explained about Shinto, torii gates, Emperor Meiji, and why wine barrels are displayed there. There were questions such as "What kind of teachings does Shinto have?", "When did Shinto originate?", and "How many shrines are there in Japan?" We also strolled along Takeshita Street and Cat Street. We then went to Shibuya. We crossed the Scramble Crossing on foot and took photos in front of the Hachiko statue. There were questions such as "Why are so many people crossing this intersection?" and "Since when has it become so crowded?" We moved on to Shinjuku and strolled around the Kabukicho area, as well as Omoide Yokocho and the quiet Shinjuku Golden Gai. I explained the origins of Kabukicho and the history of Omoide Yokocho. We took many commemorative photos with the Godzilla Head in the background. Seeing scattered trash and empty cans here and there, there was a comment that "it feels less like Tokyo and more like downtown in a big North American city." There were also questions and comments such as "Tokyo felt clean and extremely safe, completely different from home," "Why are there no trash cans on the streets?", and "The Tokyo subway system seems remarkably well made." I saw the guests off at Shiodome Station, ending the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShiodome Station~Tsukiji Market Station178JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji Station~Asakusa Station209JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa Station~Meiji-jingumae Station252JPY
    Section 4SubwayMeiji-jingumae Station~Shibuya Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwayShibuya Station~Shinjuku-sanchome Station178JPY
    Section 6SubwayShinjuku Station~Shiodome Station220JPY
    Total1,215JPY

    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.

    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour

    Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:30 Meet up @ In front of Himeji Station Central Ticket Gate
    • 2. 09:40 @ Castle View
    • 3. 10:15 @ Himeji Castle
    • 4. 12:45 Light meal @ Otemon Chaya
    • 5. 13:00 @ Koko-en Garden
    • 6. 14:45 @ Shosha-zan Engyoji Temple (Maniden Hall, Daikodo Hall, Jogyodo Hall, Jikido Hall)
    • 7. 17:00 Dismissal @ Himeji Station North Exit

    What's a Private Day Tour of Himeji Castle Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. The guests arrived at the meeting point earlier than scheduled, so we started the tour right away. First, I explained an overview of Himeji Castle from Castle View. Since we would be visiting Himeji Castle, Koko-en Garden, and Engyoji Temple on Mount Shosha that day, we went to the Shinki Bus Center and purchased discount round-trip tickets for the bus and ropeway before heading to Himeji Castle. It was very hot today. As one of the guests seemed a little tired, sightseeing took more time than expected. After touring Himeji Castle, we took a short break at a tea house near Koko-en Garden, and after visiting Koko-en Garden, we headed to Engyoji Temple by bus. Although it was a hot day, there were many tourists from Asia at Engyoji Temple. Partly for this reason, the atmosphere at Engyoji Temple was not very quiet. After Engyoji Temple, we returned to Himeji Station by ropeway and bus, and the tour came to an end. The guests thanked me, though one of them appeared to be quite tired.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Bus[Shinki Bus Koko-en Mae] Station~[Shinki Bus Shosha] Station320JPY
    Section 2Bus[Engyoji Microbus Round Trip (Shinojosho Ropeway Summit Station~Maniden Below)]500JPY
    Section 3Bus[Shinki Bus Shosha] Station~[Shinki Bus Himeji Station Mae] Station320JPY
    Total1,140JPY

    Hello, my name is Norio Oki, a Government-Certified Tour Guide in Japan.
    I specialize in guiding visitors through the beautiful and historic regions of Himeji and Kobe.

    My expertise includes Japanese history, traditional culture, castles, and sake. I enjoy sharing not only facts, but also the stories and spirit behind each place.

    In Himeji, I offer guided tours of Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden, Shoshazan Engyoji Temple, and Nadagiku Sake Brewery.
    In Kobe, I guide guests through the Nada Sake Breweries area, Mt. Rokko, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, Harborland, Meriken Park, the Kitano District, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, and the lively Motomachi Shopping Street.

    Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local experiences, I will create a personalized tour tailored to your interests.

    If you’re planning to visit Himeji or Kobe, I would be delighted to be your guide.
    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Jul 7, 2026
    77guye
    The best way to experience Himeji Castle
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    What a great way to…

    May 30, 2026
    karenpG5549XU
    Loved our tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour with Norio, would highly…

    May 28, 2026
    TrailBlazer741528
    Kobe Variety.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our delightful guide, Norio, was knowledgeable and a master at…

    May 23, 2026
    sarahpR5911DJ
    Himeji castle with Norio
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learnt lots about Himeji castle and it…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi inari & Teramachi Shopping Arcade

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi inari & Teramachi Shopping Arcade

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Hotel Granvia Kyoto
    • 09:30 Fushimi inari (0) by JR train
    • 11:00 Kiyomizudera (500) by taxi
    • Sannenzaka by walking
    • Yasaka-no-to by walking
    • Yasaka Koshindo
    • 13:30 Lunch(Kura Sushi Kinkakuji Branch) by taxi
    • 14:30 Kinkakuji (500) by walking
    • 15:40 Teramachi Shopping Arcade by taxi
    • End of the tour

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, and Kinkaku-ji The guests were a group visiting from North America. They did not have specific requests about where they wanted to go and were the type who did not research in advance. They mentioned that the previous day they had visited Dotonbori and Osaka Castle in Osaka. At Fushimi Inari, one of the guests offered a goma-gi prayer stick, some enjoyed the trendy strawberry candy, and another had strawberry ice cream. Since the road leading to Kiyomizu-dera was extremely crowded, we entered from the back. At the main hall, we drew omikuji fortunes, with results of "small blessing" and "blessing," which were reasonably good. At Shoeido, which I guided the group to, some of the guests purchased a variety of incense. I was told that they burn incense at home every day. For lunch, the group wanted to go to a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant, so we went to a sushi restaurant near Kinkaku-ji. It was full and we waited about 30 minutes, but everyone was very pleased, ate a lot, and even won a prize once through the restaurant's game, which felt like the highlight of the tour. By the time we finished at Kinkaku-ji, we had already gone past the ending time. As expected, the group had made no plans for after the tour, so I decided to take them to Teramachi shopping street and part ways there. One of the guests was not interested in Nintendo but liked animals and wanted to go to a Shiba Inu cafe, so I took them to the front of the shop and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Total150JPY

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

    Jul 14, 2026
    T6871WWricharde
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kazz gave a great one on one 8 hour custom tour…

    Jun 5, 2026
    mateoe216
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Would book again
    The tour with Kazuma-san was absolutely great. As someone…

    May 27, 2026
    Leah_D
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely recommend!
    I definitely recommend seeing some of the sights with a…

    May 26, 2026
    sheilacL3330KS
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very enthusiastic and knowledgable guide. Much appreciated
    Kazz was an excellent guide…

  • Kyoto: Tour start & Kyoto Station SkyWalk

    Kyoto: Tour start & Kyoto Station SkyWalk

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:44 Meet at Kyoto Station Shinkansen platform
    •       After Meet, explanation of tour schedule
    • 11:00 Tour start
    • 11:00-11:50 Transfer (chartered car; Kyoto Station→Arashiyama/Restaurant Cafe Dining Sera)
    • 11:50-12:40 Lunch
    • 12:40-12:50 Transfer (chartered car; Restaurant→Torokko Arashiyama Station/Bamboo Grove Entrance)
    • 12:50-13:20 Bamboo Grove walk
    • 13:20-13:50 Tenryu-ji Garden (Hyakkaen, Sogenchi Garden) visit
    • 13:50-14:20 Transfer (chartered car: Tenryu-ji parking→Ryoan-ji)
    • 14:20-15:10 Ryoan-ji visit
    • 15:10-15:30 Transfer (chartered car: Ryoan-ji→Kinkaku-ji)
    • 15:30-14:10 Kinkaku-ji visit
    • 14:10-14:40 Transfer (Kinkaku-ji→Kyoto Station)
    • 14:40-15:00 Kyoto Station SkyWalk
    • 15:00 Farewell at Kyoto Station

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Day Trip by Bullet Train from Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time. They had arrived in Tokyo the previous day and organized a same-day round trip to Kyoto using the bullet train. The rainy season in the Kinki region had ended the previous day, nearly a month earlier than usual, so the tour took place in intense heat of around 35°C. Still recovering from jet lag and dealing with this heat, the group seemed a little worn out. I took them to Arashiyama (the Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple, including the Hyakka-en Garden and the Sogen-chi Garden), Ryoan-ji Temple, and Kinkaku-ji Temple. Among the group, favorites included the Bamboo Grove, Kinkaku-ji Temple, and Ryoan-ji Temple.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherKyoto Station~Arashiyama Restaurant Cafe Dining Sera0JPY
    Section 2OtherRestaurant~Torokko Arashiyama Station/Bamboo Grove Entrance0JPY
    Section 3OtherTenryu-ji parking~Ryoan-ji0JPY
    Section 4OtherRyoan-ji~Kinkaku-ji0JPY
    Section 5OtherKinkaku-ji~Kyoto Station0JPY
    Total0JPY

    My name is (Mr.)Michiharu Aioi and I worked at Electronic Manufacturing Company (Panasonic) for more than 40 years in charge of overseas sales.
    I learned a lot in these 40 years and now I would like to contribute to the promotion of mutual understanding with foreign countries being involved in tourism busines utilizing my long experience in my previous company. I will do my best to make each trip very fruitful for each foreign visitor.
    As for my language ability, in addition to English, I can speak Spanish which I used in my job and I can communicate with Chinese people with intermediate level. Finally It is my great pleasure if my activity could work in the mutual understang with foreign visitors. Thanks a Lot !

    Jul 19, 2026
    Wander35832177180
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Kyoto temple tour
    Our Kyoto guided tour (Aioi Michiharu) was a…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Abby_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour. Highly recommend
    Michi our guide was excellent!…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Javier P
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto gems
    Michi was incredibly courteous and informative.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Beth_D
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Tour and Guide
    Michi was an excellent tour guide! He…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Tobu Tojo Line Oyama Station & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tobu Tojo Line Oyama Station & Shibuya Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 13:00 Meeting place: Oyama Station, North Exit
    • 13:10 Tobu Tojo Line Oyama Station
    • (Tobu Tojo Line)
    • Ikebukuro Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 13:40 Arrive at Shinjuku Station
    • Shinjuku Shinjuku Station Midori no Madoguchi
    • Kabukicho
    • Omoide Yokocho
    • Golden Gai
    • 14:30 Depart Odakyu Shinjuku Station
    • (Odakyu Odawara Line)
    • 14;45 Arrive at Yoyogi-Hachiman Station
    • Yoyogi Yoyogi-Hachiman Public Restroom
    • Haru no Ogawa Community Park Restroom
    • Yoyogi Fukamachi Small Park Restroom
    • 15:30 Yoyogi-Koen Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 15:40 Arrive at Meiji-Jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Takeshita Street
    • 16:30 Depart Meiji-Jingumae Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 16:40 Arrive at Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • 17:40 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • Arrive at Ikebukuro Station
    • 18:00 Dismissal: Ikebukuro Station

    Title: What's a Private Tokyo Walking Tour of Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. They had arrived at Narita Airport the previous night and taken a taxi to their accommodation, a B&B. This time they were on a trip of about two weeks. After staying in Tokyo for one week, they planned to travel to Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara, and then return to Tokyo before heading home. They said, "We would like to visit spots in Tokyo that not many tourists go to," and also, "We want to learn how to use the subway and trains before we go home." As they seemed tired from the long flight, the tour proceeded at a relaxed pace. It was a hot, humid day under fine weather. We met at Oyama Station on the Tobu Tojo Line and first headed to Shinjuku. At the "Midori no Madoguchi" ticket office, everyone purchased Suica cards (including children's fares). After that we went to Kabukicho, strolling through spots such as the "Godzilla Head," "Golden Gai," and "Omoide Yokocho." The guests said, "We're just amazed at how many people there are," and, "But this place feels somehow different from other parts of Tokyo." We moved to Yoyogi (there had been a request to see Tokyo's designer public toilets), and we visited three of them near Yoyogi. The guests commented, "They're unique and interesting. In Europe there are almost no public toilets, and the ones that exist all charge a fee." From there we went to Harajuku. I explained about Shinto, torii gates, Emperor Meiji, and why wine barrels are displayed there. There were questions such as, "What kind of teaching is Shinto?" "When did Shinto originate?" and "How many shrines are there in Japan?" We also strolled along Takeshita Street. Then to Shibuya. First we took photos at the Scramble Crossing. There was also a question, "Why do so many people gather here?" We took photos in front of the Hachiko statue as well. The guests commented, "It's strange that there is no litter on the streets," "This was our first time riding the subway, and it was very comfortable and convenient," "We're struggling with the heat of the climate," and, "It's quite hard to find a place where all of us can eat together." We saw them off at Ikebukuro Station and parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOyama Station~Ikebukuro Station157JPY
    Section 2TrainIkebukuro Station~Shinjuku Station167JPY
    Section 3TrainShinjuku Station~Yoyogi-Hachiman Station136JPY
    Section 4SubwayYoyogi-Koen Station~Meiji-Jingumae Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwayMeiji-Jingumae Station~Shibuya Station178JPY
    Section 6TrainShibuya Station~Ikebukuro Station178JPY
    Total994JPY

    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.

    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
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    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…