Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto: Hyatt Regency Kyoto & Kiyomizudera (500)

    Kyoto: Hyatt Regency Kyoto & Kiyomizudera (500)

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Hyatt Regency Kyoto
    • 08:50 Fushimi Inari (0)
    • 10:30 Kiyomizudera (500)
    •   Sannenzaka by walking
    •    Yasaka-no-to by walking
    • 12:30 Nishiki Market for Lunch Cash is necessary
    • 15:30 Hyatt Regency Kyoto
    • End of the tour

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like for a Multigenerational Family? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a multigenerational group visiting from North America. There had been various exchanges leading up to the tour date. Originally they had booked a rickshaw ride in Arashiyama after Fushimi Inari Taisha, and since six hours would not have been enough time, arrangements were made to extend the tour by one hour. The day before, they let me know that they had arrived in Kyoto a day early and had already taken the rickshaw ride, so there was no need to go to the Arashiyama area today. Everyone in the group walked well and were quite steady on their feet. At Fushimi Inari Taisha, we went as far as Kumataka-sha. At Kiyomizu-dera, they said they were content to stop in front of the admission ticket booth, but I told them we really had to go inside, and we walked all the way to the Koyasu Pagoda. They bought a set of Kiyomizu-yaki chopstick rests at Asahido, purchased nama yatsuhashi at Nishio, and bought furikake at Ochanoko Saisai. After that, the plan was to go to Nishiki Market and finish at Kinkaku-ji, but at Nishiki Market they enjoyed some drinks and got so lively that they ran out of time and felt a little tired, so instead of visiting Kinkaku-ji they returned to the Hotel.

    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0900 Meet at Remm Akihabara (1 min from JR Akihabara Station)
    • 0935 Tsukiji Outer Market, Kabukiza Theatre, Ginza 4-chome Intersection
    • 1030 Imperial Palace Outer Garden, Tatsumi Yagura, Gyoko-dori Avenue, Marunouchi Naka-dori, Tokyo Station
    • 1140 Nezu Shrine, Snake Road, Yomise-dori, Lunch at Oshimaya, Yanaka Ginza
    • 1330 Asakusa, Kaminarimon, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine
    • 1445 Ameyoko
    • 1510 Escort to Akihabara Station and disband

    What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsukiji, Yanesen, and Asakusa The guests were a group from North America visiting Japan for the first time. They arrived the previous night. They planned to stay in Tokyo, including a day trip to Mount Fuji, and then travel around Kyoto and Osaka before continuing on to Asia and returning home. Today, after my tour, the guests planned to ride go-karts in Shibuya at 6:00 in the evening. At Tsukiji, one of the guests became interested in kaki no tane (rice crackers), while another enjoyed trying grilled eel on a skewer for the first time and was delighted by how delicious it was. The guests were kept busy taking photos of the sights and products they had heard about from friends. In the Yanesen area, the sun was shining and it may have been a bit hot, but the guests enjoyed oyakodon and udon at Oshimaya on Yomise-dori, and regardless of the taste, they were impressed by the family-run establishment. After Asakusa, the guests seemed to want to rest before their evening go-kart activity, so I took care not to let the tour run over time.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassAkihabara~Tsukiji700JPY
    Section 2Free PassGinza~Nijubashimae0JPY
    Section 3Free PassNijubashimae~Nezu0JPY
    Section 4TrainNippori~Ueno160JPY
    Section 5Free PassUeno~Asakusa0JPY
    Section 6Free PassAsakusa~Ueno0JPY
    Section 7TrainOkachimachi~Akihabara160JPY
    Total1,020JPY

    I had worked in the international business scene for over 40 years and traveled to North America and European countries over 1000 days.
    After I retired from the business, I traveled to most of the major sightseeing spots in all 47 prefectures in Japan.

    My guide is starting from a brief history of the site where I am going to guide. I usually add a briefing about Japanese culture based on religions, such as Shinto Shrine and Buddhist temples. A geographic background behind the history is also important.
    My course includes 4 to 5 (in 6 hours) sites from the following depending on where I will pick the guests up;
    – Senso ji Temple
    – Kappabashi Kitchenware Market
    – Tokyo Skytree
    – Ueno Park
    – Nezu Shrine
    – Imperial Palace outer park
    – Tokyo Central Station, Marunouchi historic district
    – Tsukiji Fish Market
    – Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    – Ginza
    – Odaiba
    – Hama Rikyu Garden
    – Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
    – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
    – Roppongi
    – Meiji Shrine
    – Harajuku & Takeshita Street
    – Shibuya
    – and Any of your interest.

    I am happy to introduce Japanese Manga/Anime cultures such as Akihabara, Nakano Broadway and Ghibli related sites.
    Travelling along the JR central line where guests can stopover at major animation studios (it is not accepted to visit the inside). The majority of animation studios such as TMS Entertainment, SUNRISE, A1 Pictures etc. are located in this area. Suginami Animation museum, Studio Ghibli and Ghibli Museum are also located.
    Guests can feel old houses in the Spirited Away scene in the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.

    I can also provide a pilgrimage to the sacred place (shooting location) for the Shinkai Makoto animation movies such as Your name, Weathering with you, and Suzume.

    Another interesting feature is to visit authentic Japanese style pub meals such as Yakitori, Karaage, and Sushi etc.
    Asakusa Hoppy Street, Ameyoko Street, Yurakucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku Golden gai, Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho are nice to visit.

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

    In addition to the above, I am available in the neighboring cities.

    Kawagoe is an old town developed in the 17th century. It has very close relationship with the Edo central government. Kawagoe castle ruins, Kitain temple and 500 Buddha statues will welcome the guests.
    These areas are renovated and provide an old days atmosphere.
    Japanese style sweets food stands will fascinate the guests.
    Kawagoe is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    Kamakura is the first Samurai worriers government established in the late 12th century.
    The Buddhism are introduced to Japan in the 6th century, and flourished at Nara and Kyoto later. A newer Buddhism sect such as Zen has well developed at Kamakura area.
    Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Gigantic Buddha statue at Kotokuin Temple and the flower temple Hasedera Temple are must-see.
    Kamakura is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    I am also happy to develop any other site the guests have interest.

    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

    Jun 26, 2026
    ann r
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Educational with kind, generous guide
    My teenage sons and I learned…

    Jun 14, 2026
    141yunb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
    We…

    May 18, 2026
    B
    Beth56646
    Great tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Ted and I agreed upon what we would see…

  • Kyoto: Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto: Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto & Nijo Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto
    • 10:50-11:20 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Path
    • 11:45-12:30 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 13:00-14:15 Lunch (Kyoto Cuisine Izutsu)
    • 14:30-15:20 Nijo Castle
    • 16:00 Guide you to UNIQLO in Mina Kyoto near Kawaramachi Sanjo, then disband

    What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like for a Multi-Generational Family? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a family who had gathered from different regions to enjoy a trip to Japan together, with some members traveling from North America and others from South America. In advance, the guests requested a more relaxed schedule to allow for a gentle pace, so I proposed an itinerary with lunch and four stops at a leisurely pace. On the day, they took even more time to enjoy the sightseeing, so the route was Hotel → the Bamboo Grove path in Arashiyama → Kinkaku-ji → lunch (a Kyoto cuisine restaurant) → Nijo Castle → a shopping complex near Kawaramachi-Sanjo, where we parted ways. Since some of the guests did not speak English, the others carefully listened to each part of my explanation and translated it into Spanish, which made them very rewarding guests to guide. During lunch, the conversation turned to occupations, and since there were some with backgrounds in law and medicine, we talked about the nuance of the Japanese word "sensei." We also discussed surprising similarities between Japanese and Peruvian cuisine, the fact that a Peruvian restaurant once ranked number one in the world was run by an owner-chef of Japanese descent, and even talked about a former Peruvian president of Japanese heritage and a related presidential candidate, which made me realize how Japan and Peru are both distant and closely connected.

    My name is Masaki Kitagawa, a male in the middle of 50s living in Kyoto with my wife, son and three cats. While working for a local energy company on weekdays, I’ve been a tour guide on weekends since 2019 and enjoy interacting with people coming from different worlds. It is my great pleasure to help you make your excursion time-efficient and pleasant even during the high seasons in Kyoto. Considering your interests, preferences and priorities, I want to design and make your journey fruitful one. I’m thrilled to be contacted from you. Let’s explore Kyoto !

    Jun 3, 2026
    Nikki G
    Wonderful experience with a great guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Masaki was our guide through…

    May 24, 2026
    Pamela_C
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Perfect day in Kyoto with the best guide!…

    May 4, 2026
    TravelersHigh77
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent English speaking guide for Kyoto
    Masaki was s wonderful and patient…

    Nov 29, 2025
    vsairamkumar
    Kyoto guided tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had great fun exploring Kyoto with Masaki San.…

  • Kyoto: to 15:15    Nijo Castle

    Kyoto: to 15:15 Nijo Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet at The Hilton Kyoto
    • 10:00 to 11:10 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 11:40 to 12:30 Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
    • 13:30 to 14:10 Sagano Bamboo Grove
    • 14:30 to 15:15 Nijo Castle
    • 15:30 Dismissal at The Hilton Kyoto

    What Is a Private Family Group Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. They were a very cheerful group, and everyone spoke to me in a friendly manner, which made for an enjoyable tour. Everyone stayed together well and moved on schedule, so guiding such a large group did not feel like a burden at all. The weather today was neither too hot nor too humid, and I believe they enjoyed the spots we visited.

    Personal data
    Born in : May 1st, 1957
    Hobby : Visiting scenic places,
    historic spots, Japanese
    gardens and old townscape
    Former career : Worked for electric
    company and engaged in
    international sales for
    about 40 years.
    Travel history in the former career :
    Visited about 20 countries about 200 times

    Career as guide interpreter
    Acquisition of guide license : 2016
    Career of guide : 8 years
    Genre of my specialty :
    Japanese historic structures such as
    temple, shrine, castle and garden.
    Area of guide : Kyoto, Nara, Osaka &
    Himeji

    Let’s enjoy Japan with me !!

    Dec 30, 2024
    shannono1010
    Haru is a Rock Star
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a fantastic guide. He explained…

    Dec 29, 2024
    Ali O
    Amazing!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was amazing on our tour of Nara. He was…

    Dec 4, 2024
    D5658ZEjohnr
    Trip to some of the Kyoto sites on our visit to Japan.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with…

    Dec 3, 2024
    Charlie_Jane00
    Kyoto Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a well organised and very informative guide. He…

  • Tokyo: Imperial Palace East Gardens & Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

    Tokyo: Imperial Palace East Gardens & Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:15 Meet up @ Gracery Ginza
    • 09:30 Hotel
    • 10:00 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 11:45 Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    • 13:30 Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
    • 15:45 Yurakucho ~ Ginza Pedestrian Paradise
    • 16:00 Disband @ GINZA SIX

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Tokyo's Imperial Palace and Gardens Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. They had arrived two days earlier, and the previous day they had taken a tour of the city with only a driver and no guide. From the following day, they were scheduled to depart on a 14-day cruise. Because of their surname, I was initially a little concerned about whether I would be able to follow their English, but they spoke clear British English, which was a great help. We were able to gather 15 minutes ahead of schedule, so I had plenty of time for an orientation before setting off. At the Imperial Palace, I explained the history from the Edo period through the Meiji Restoration, and at Korakuen I explained the daimyo system and the three main branches of the Tokugawa family. The Japanese irises were at their best at both the Ninomaru Garden and Korakuen, and the guests were delighted. They were very satisfied with the Japanese garden of the imperial grounds, which, though man-made, was beautifully arranged. During lunch, I reviewed the merits and drawbacks of the Japanese national character, as well as Meiji Shrine and Asakusa, which they had visited the previous day without a guide. Finally, they enjoyed the pedestrian paradise in Ginza, and the tour came to an end.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGinza~Otemachi (Tokyo)180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTakebashi~Iidabashi180JPY
    Section 3TrainSuidobashi~Sendagaya200JPY
    Section 4TrainSendagaya~Yurakucho210JPY
    Total770JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo: Watch the tuna auction & Tsukiji

    Tokyo: Watch the tuna auction & Tsukiji

    Tour Itinerary

    • 05:00 Meet in front of the main gate of Toyosu Market
    • 05:00-05:30 Explanation of related information in advance, such as tuna catching methods, how the auction proceeds, collection methods, and the roles of wholesalers and intermediate wholesalers
    • 05:30-06:00 Watch the tuna auction
    • 06:00-07:00 Sushi breakfast at a sushi restaurant inside Toyosu Market
    • 07:00-07:15 Move to Tsukiji
    • 07:15-08:00 Stroll through the Tsukiji inner market
    • 08:00 Disband at Tsukiji

    What Is a Private Tsukiji and Toyosu Tuna Auction Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a very cheerful group who were a pleasure to talk with. One of the guests was studying Japanese, and we occasionally spoke in Japanese during our conversation, which they were delighted to say made for good practice. The guests were impressed to see how systematically and efficiently the tuna auction proceeded. They were especially amazed that a single tuna was sold in about five seconds. At the sushi restaurant, they ordered an all-tuna course and the chef's omakase selection, sharing everything between them. They enjoyed the differences in flavor among the various cuts of tuna as well as other seasonal fish, smiling from ear to ear. At Tsukiji, they focused on the intermediate wholesaler shops, and upon seeing the seafood displayed so cleanly and attractively, they remarked, "I think I now understand why Japanese people eat raw fish."

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusToyosu Market / Toei Bus~Tsukiji 6-chome / Toei Bus210JPY
    Total210JPY

    Hello, I am Toru, a certified National Guide. I have been guiding since 2017, primarily in the Tokyo area, which includes Hakone, Kamakura, and Yokohama. To make your stay in Japan unforgettable, I always discuss a tour plan with my guests via email before their arrival. Please share your preferences, including the places you’d like to visit and the experiences you’d like to try during your stay in Tokyo. If this is your first visit to Japan, I’m excited to help make your time in Tokyo even more enjoyable by suggesting sample itineraries and offering travel tips.

    For more information about me, please visit my profile site.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/hello-welcome-to-japan/
    For your reference, please feel free to visit my blog, which features popular sightseeing spots and interesting experiences.
    https://japan-cultural-traditional-experience.com/

    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    July 2, 2026
    David S
    Tripadvisor : Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Incredible experience at the Markets!
    Toru…

    Jun 6, 2026
    meltemg957
    Unique experience with a highly knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide…

    Jun 4, 2026
    bluejerky1
    Turo was knowledgeable and the tour was fun and fun and informative. Highly recommend.
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction…

    May 29, 2026
    Eva P
    Fabulous experience with Toru!
    Tripadvisor review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Toru was…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Nishiki Market

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Nijo Castle & Nishiki Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at Hyatt Regency Kyoto
    • 9:30 Kinkaku-ji (Kinkaku-ji → Nijo Castle, travel by taxi)
    • 11:00 Nijo Castle
    • 12:00 Nishiki Market
    • 12:30 End at Nishiki Market

    What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji and Nijo Castle The guests were visitors from North America. In their email beforehand they had expressed interest in Arashiyama and Sagano, but after we met, they said that since it was their first visit they wanted to see the major sightseeing spots. When I offered several suggestions, they mentioned wanting to avoid crowds as much as possible, so they chose not to visit Fushimi Inari or Arashiyama, and we went to Kinkaku-ji and Nijo Castle instead. Since we had a little time left, I guided them to Nishiki Market, and the tour ended once they had decided on a place to have their meal.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherSanjusangen-do~Kyoto Station / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2OtherKyoto~Kitaoji260JPY
    Section 3BusKitaoji Bus Terminal (Kitaoji Subway Station) / Kyoto City Bus~Kinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijojo-mae~Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)220JPY
    Total940JPY

    Hi I am Kunihiro ARAKAWA, National government licensed tour guide.
    Please call me first name Kuni.
    My original city is Nagoya, but I lived in Tokyo for 20 years,
    and also lived in London and Paris for work.
    Now I live in Kyoto city. I moved here because I love Kyoto.
    I like taking photos and also sell my own photos on website.
    I’d love to take memorable photos for you at great photo spots.
    I also like history and gourmet food.
    I’d love to introduce some local recommendations.
    I’ll ask your request and create your special tour.
    Please feel free to let us know your thoughts.
    Looking forward to meeting you !

    Kuni

    Jul 18, 2026
    M2443VKandrewl
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Excellent guide and support
    Kuni-san was an excellent guide and…

    Jun 9, 2026
    Gail M
    Tripadvisor review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Kyoto Sights; Private Guide & Driver
    The…

    Jun 5, 2026
    Rick_S
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    An afternoon in Kyoto
    We had a great time exploring Kyoto. Our…

    May 16, 2026
    sydneybA4751LA
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 private tour of Kyoto!
    Kuni was amazing as our private tour…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Nijo Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hilton Kyoto
    • 9:45 Arashiyama (Tenryu-ji Temple, Bamboo Grove Path, Okochi Sanso Villa)
    • 12:15 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 13:50 Nijo Castle
    • 15:00 Disband at Hilton Kyoto

    What Is a Private Full-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America, on an extended trip. Since they left the entire itinerary up to me, we started the tour with my suggested plan. Unusually, everywhere was less crowded than normal, and it was not particularly hot, so we were able to get around smoothly. Okochi Sanso Garden was quiet, and the guests seemed to especially enjoy being captivated by the beauty of the plants and the scenery. It is also nice that you can take a break and enjoy a complimentary cup of tea inside. We had lunch at a coffee house near Nijo Castle that I had used before and that had received good reviews, and they were able to relax and rest there. At the end of the tour, when I told them that we had visited three World Heritage sites today, they smiled with satisfaction. I took them to their hotel and said goodbye.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShijo Kawaramachi (Express/Connecting Bus)~Arashiyama (Hankyu Line)240JPY
    Section 2TrainArashiyama Tenryu-ji-mae (Randen Arashiyama Station)/Kyoto City Bus~Kitano Hakubaicho250JPY
    Section 3BusKinkaku-ji-michi/Kyoto City Bus~Nijojo-mae/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4SubwayNijojo-mae~Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae220JPY
    Total940JPY

    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…

  • Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:40 a.m. Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • → Take a taxi to the Peace Memorial Park (approx. ¥2,000)
    • 9:00 a.m. Visit the Peace Memorial Park and Peace Memorial Museum
    • → Take a taxi to Shukkeien Garden (approx. ¥1,500)
    • 11:30 a.m. Visit Shukkeien Garden (¥350 per person)
    • *Admission to Shukkeien Garden is free for visitors aged 65 and over and for students with valid ID.
    • → Walk to Hiroshima Station (about 15 minutes)
    • 12:15 p.m. Lunch at a Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki restaurant at Hiroshima Station
    • (approx. ¥1,000–¥2,000 per person)
    • 1:00 p.m. End of the tour at Hiroshima Station

    What Is a Private Hiroshima Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Peace Park, Shukkeien Garden, and Okonomiyaki The guests were a group of three visiting from North America. We got along very well and the conversation flowed easily, making it a very relaxed and pleasant tour. Since the museum gets very crowded during the current school-trip season, we went there first and entered just before 9:00, which allowed the group to view the exhibits at a leisurely pace. When leaving the main building, they saw a very long line stretching across the connecting corridor all the way to the east building, and they were delighted that we had come early and been able to see everything properly. At Peace Park, everyone listened intently, and we folded paper cranes together. The paper cranes turned out to be more difficult than expected, and the group was moved all over again thinking about how much effort it must have taken to fold the tiny paper cranes made by Sadako, which they had seen at the museum. The group was interested in Japanese anime and music, and we had a lively conversation about how Japanese anime is expressed in English in North America. At Shukkeien Garden, the group was very pleased by the many carp swimming and by the bamboo grove, and they said it was very calming with so few people around. As a contrast, they told me how surprised they had been to see station staff pushing passengers onto crowded trains in Tokyo, which made for a lively conversation. Finally, we went for okonomiyaki at Hiroshima Station, which they enjoyed very much. One of the group was very fond of cars and had made a reservation at the Mazda Museum for the afternoon, so I gave directions on how to get there and ended the tour. They were a cheerful group and a pleasure to talk with, and I thoroughly enjoyed myself while chatting the whole time.

    Hello. My name is Mari.
    I am a certified local tour guide in Hiroshima.

    I was born and grew up in Hiroshima until I entered in a university in Tokyo.
    After 6 years in Tokyo, I came back to Hiroshima because I really love my hometown and wanted to spend the rest of my life here.

    Hiroshima is very comfortable city to live in and rich in nature.
    I am so happy that I have been able to raise my kids here.

    Hiroshima is absolutely full of beautiful and historically important places and also the great food.
    I am so excited to introduce the wonderful experiences here in Hiroshima and hope you will come to love this place, too.
    Look forward to meeting you.

    Jul 27, 2026
    Jen_S21
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    The highlight of our trip!
    Mari was an excellent…

    Jul 26, 2026
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    A faire
    Une belle visite, bcp d’émotions.
    Mari a été…

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  • Kanagawa in One Day: Motomachi-Chukagai Station & Jomyoji Bus Stop

    Kanagawa in One Day: Motomachi-Chukagai Station & Jomyoji Bus Stop

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting place: Hotel Yokohama
    • 9:10 Depart Motomachi-Chukagai Station
    • (Minatomirai Line)
    • Yokohama Station
    • (JR Yokosuka Line)
    • Kamakura Station
    • (Enoshima Electric Railway)
    • 10:30 Arrive Hase Station
    • Hase Kotoku-in / Great Buddha of Kamakura
    • (On foot)
    • Hase-dera Temple
    • 11:30 Depart Hase Station
    • (Enoshima Electric Railway)
    • 11:45 Arrive Kamakura Station
    • 12:00 Depart Kamakura Station (East Exit) / Keikyu Bus Stop
    • (Keikyu Bus)
    • 12:15 Arrive Jomyoji Bus Stop
    • Hokoku-ji Temple Hokoku-ji Temple
    • 13:00 Depart Jomyoji Bus Stop
    • (Keikyu Bus)
    • 13:20 Arrive Kamakura Station (East Exit) / Keikyu Bus Stop
    • (On foot)
    • Kamakura Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
    • Komachi-dori Street
    • Break: Cafe
    • 14:20 Depart Kamakura Station
    • (JR Yokosuka Line)
    • Yokohama Station
    • (Minatomirai Line)
    • 15:00 Arrive Motomachi-Chukagai Station
    • 15:00 Disband: Yokohama Motomachi-Chukagai Station

    What's a Rainy-Day Private Tour of Kamakura Like from Yokohama? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, all coming to Japan for the first time. They were longtime travel companions. Two days earlier, they had arrived at Haneda Airport and taken a taxi to a hotel in Yokohama. The main purpose of this visit to Japan was a 12-day cruise around Japan departing from the Port of Yokohama, set to begin the day after next. They planned to go sightseeing in various places at each port of call. For today, the guests requested a tour focused mainly on Kamakura. The guests also mentioned that some of their party were scheduled to arrive from North America and join the same cruise, but that their flight had been canceled due to a typhoon, so they had not yet arrived in Japan, and they were worried. A powerful typhoon was approaching, bringing strong winds and heavy rain, but the guests strongly wished to proceed, saying, "Today is our only chance to visit Kamakura," so we went ahead with the tour. Before departure, we bought umbrellas and raincoats at a nearby convenience store. We traveled to Kamakura Station via Yokohama Station, and then on to Hase Station. Even inside the Enoden train, there were only a few tourists. Along the way, I explained about "the history of Kamakura," "the history of Edo and Tokyo," "the feudal system," and "the Meiji Restoration." I also explained "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." There were questions such as "Do all Japanese people believe in Buddhism?" and "What other religions do people follow?" Unfortunately, due to the typhoon, Kotoku-in was closed, and we could not go inside. However, we were able to see just the face of the Great Buddha from outside and took photos. Quite a few tourists had come as well. The guests also said, "Since we plan to go to Nara too, we'd like to see the Great Buddha in Nara." We moved on to Hase-dera, where we were able to go inside. The guests remarked, "The garden within the temple is wonderful." We returned to Kamakura Station and took a bus to Hokoku-ji, which was also open. I explained about "the history and current state of Hokoku-ji." We took a leisurely stroll through the bamboo grove within the temple grounds. We returned to Kamakura Station by bus and walked along the approach to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. I explained again about "Shinto" and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto," as well as the "manner of worship" for each. We took photos in front of the sake barrels. Afterward, we walked along Komachi-dori back toward Kamakura Station. Around this time, the rain began to ease. We traveled to Motomachi-Chukagai Station via Yokohama Station. The guests commented, "We felt Japan is very safe," "There's no litter on the streets," and "Everyone is polite." I saw them off at Motomachi-Chukagai Station, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMotomachi-Chukagai~Yokohama230JPY
    Section 2TrainYokohama~Kamakura440JPY
    Section 3TrainKamakura~Hase (Kanagawa Prefecture)200JPY
    Section 4TrainHase (Kanagawa Prefecture)~Kamakura200JPY
    Section 5TrainKamakura Station (East Exit) / Keikyu Bus~Jomyoji / Keikyu Bus240JPY
    Section 6TrainJomyoji / Keikyu Bus~Kamakura Station (East Exit) / Keikyu Bus240JPY
    Section 7TrainKamakura~Yokohama440JPY
    Section 8TrainYokohama~Motomachi-Chukagai230JPY
    Total2,220JPY

    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
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