Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Imperial Palace East & Ginza 4-chome to Ginza Six

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Imperial Palace East & Ginza 4-chome to Ginza Six

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    September, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Conrad Tokyo
    • 9:40 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 10:50 Explain Tokyo Station at Gyoko-dori Avenue
    • 11:20 From Ginza 4-chome to Ginza Six
    • 11:55 Disband at Ginza Six

    Title: What's a Private Half-Day Tokyo Walking Tour Like on a Hot Summer Day? A Licensed Guide's Report It was an extremely hot day with not a single cloud in the sky. I provided a parasol for the guests to use. Since they had Suica cards, the tour proceeded smoothly. Because of the circumstances of the trip, there was a strict condition that we had to return to the Hotel within four hours, and since the sunlight was very strong, I adjusted the two planned locations, the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace and Ginza, to avoid direct sunlight, staying indoors as much as possible and taking breaks along the way. On the way to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, we chatted about various topics, and there were many questions about Japanese history and about Tokyo, which I answered. From the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace to Ginza, I had planned to walk outdoors and show them Nijubashi Bridge or Tokyo Station, but the heat was too intense, so I gave up on that and took an underground passage, coming out briefly from underground to explain Tokyo Station, resulting in a simplified route. For Ginza, we went all the way underground to the 4-chome intersection, then came up to the surface and went to Ginza Six, where they could see Skytree and Tokyo Tower from the rooftop. Just as we were about to head back to the Hotel, the guests said they would have a meal at a restaurant there before returning, so the guiding could end, and the tour concluded at 11:55.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShimbashi～Takebashi290JPY
    Total290JPY

    Tour Report by Koba

    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.

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    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…

  • Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour

    Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour

    Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour, Licensed Guide

    September, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 930 Shimizu Port → Miho no Matsubara → Nihondaira Yume Terrace → Nihondaira Ropeway → Kunozan Toshogu Shrine → Nihondaira Ropeway → Nihondaira Parking Lot → 1300 Shimizu Port

    Can You Do a Private Day Trip to See Mount Fuji from Shizuoka? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from North America. Since they wished for an itinerary with views of Mount Fuji, I proposed and carried out a plan that took into account the fact that the mountain is usually not visible in the afternoon, and that Miho no Matsubara offers a higher chance of a clear view than the Nihondaira Yume Terrace, so we visited Miho no Matsubara first. As a result, despite it being a summer day, Mount Fuji was seen far more clearly than expected from Miho no Matsubara, and everyone was delighted. The group especially enjoyed playing at the water's edge, and I believe it became a trip that left wonderful memories. By consistently staying ahead of the cruise ship group buses throughout the itinerary, there was almost no waiting time for the ropeway that I had been worried about, which turned out to be the greatest success of the day.

    Click here for more details: Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour, Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by YOSHI

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

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

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

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

    Jul 5, 2026
    788amarpals
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Top 7 Sights Private Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Private tour Guide in Kyoto- Mr Yoshi
    Mr.…

  • Kyoto: Kofukuji Temple & Yakushiji Temple

    Kyoto: Kofukuji Temple & Yakushiji Temple

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    September, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 to 10:45 Kofukuji Temple
    • 10:55 to 11:05 Nara Park
    • 11:15 to 12:00 Todaiji Temple
    • 12:10 to 12:30 Nara Park
    • 12:40 to 13:20 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 13:30 to 14:10 Lunch at Higashimuki Shopping Street
    • 14:40 to 15:10 Yakushiji Temple

    Can You Do a Private Nara Day Trip for Guests Who Prefer Less Walking? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. Since one member of the group preferred not to walk long distances or climb stairs in the heat, I had to think carefully about how to explore the spacious Nara Park in a way that would allow everyone to enjoy the tour without feeling fatigued. Instead of visiting Nigatsudo as originally planned, we went to Yakushiji Temple. Fortunately, we were able to sit for the entire train ride both to and from Nara and Kyoto, so I believe the guests were able to enjoy the tour overall without feeling tired.

    Click here for more details: Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto Kawaramachi～Karasuma170JPY
    Section 2SubwayShijo (Kyoto Municipal)～Takeda (Kyoto)260JPY
    Section 3TrainTakeda (Kyoto)～Kintetsu Nara760JPY
    Section 4BusKintetsu Nara～Himuro Shrine/National Museum/Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Section 5BusKasuga Taisha Honden/Nara Kotsu～Kintetsu Nara Station/Nara Kotsu250JPY
    Section 6TrainKintetsu Nara～Nishinokyo300JPY
    Section 7TrainNishinokyo～Takeda (Kyoto)680JPY
    Section 8SubwayTakeda (Kyoto)～Shijo (Kyoto Municipal)260JPY
    Section 9TrainKarasuma～Kyoto Kawaramachi170JPY
    Total3,100JPY

    Tour Report by Haru

    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 !!

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    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…

  • Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour

    Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour

    Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour, Licensed Guide

    August, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting Up at Shimizu Port Marine Terminal→10:20 Shiraito Falls→11:40 Sake Tasting at Asagiri Food Park Fujinomiya Sake Brewery→12:20 Lunch at Numazu Uogashi Sushi→13:10 Visit Fujinomiya Sengen Taisha Shrine→14:00 Depart from the same place→ 15:00 Arrive at Shimizu Marine Terminal

    What Can You See on a Private Day Tour from Shimizu Port to Shiraito Falls and Mount Fuji? A Licensed Guide's Report On the way from Shimizu Port to Shiraito Falls, thanks to a driver who was very familiar with the local area, the guests were able to photograph a Shinkansen bullet train crossing the Fujigawa railway bridge with Mount Fuji in the background, which delighted them greatly. At Shiraito Falls, the guests went down close to the water's surface and seemed to fully enjoy the powerful sight of the falls. At Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine, the guests experienced the temizu (water purification basin) and the proper etiquette of two bows, two claps, and one bow. They also received an omikuji fortune and a goshuin seal, and appeared to become quite interested in Japanese Shinto. I think this is a recommended course for guests visiting Japan for the first time.

    Click here for more details: Shimizu Shore Excursion: Mt. Fuji View Tour, Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Kaz

    My name is Kazunori Honma, I live in Odawara city near Hakone facing Pacific Ocean, so I am familiar with Mt. Fuji and Hakone area. In particular, nature, history, culture and food in the region are my specialty. I know a lot of Shinto shrines, temples, and hiking trails. Plus, I love art, so I am able to guide you to a wide variety of art museums in Mt. Fuji and Hakone area. If you are an art lover, you will be able to spend a fulfilling time with me.
    I thoroughly make preparations for your interests and needs to satisfy you with all my effort in advance. I’m sure you will definitely be happy with spending a day with me.

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    Sep 25, 2026
    scottrE3713WR
    Great Mt. Fuji experience!
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kaz was amazing! Great communication before…

    Aug 27, 2026
    H694KFjoannet
    Great Day in Shimizu
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Fuji View Shimizu Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    We had a great experience with…

    Jun 4, 2026
    Companion12422328239
    Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Shizuoka Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle
    Great views of Mt Fuji and local tea
    We had…

    May 28, 2026
    kam_g
    Viator review: Shizuoka/Shimizu Mt Fuji View 6 hr Private Tour: Guide Only
    The guide was very nice…
    The guide was very…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    September, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:30 Meet the guests at Kyoto Station
    • 2. 10:00 Sightseeing in Arashiyama (Bamboo Grove, Nonomiya Shrine, Kameyama Park, etc.)
    • 3. 12:00 Guided tour of Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 4. 14:00 Guided tour of Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 5. 15:15 Tour of the Gion area from the car window
    • 6. 15:25 Tour of Nishiki Market
    • 7. 15:30 Dismissal @ Nishiki Market

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama, Fushimi Inari, and Kiyomizu-dera I met the guests, a group visiting from North America, at Kyoto Station at 9:20. We took a chartered taxi to Arashiyama, where I guided them through the bamboo grove. I introduced the moss garden at Nonomiya Shrine and explained Shinto beliefs, after which we took a leisurely stroll through the bamboo grove, passed through Kameyama Park, and moved on to the Hozugawa River. The guests enjoyed the natural surroundings and the fresh air, and from there we headed to the next destination, Fushimi Inari Taisha. At the shrine, we paid our respects together at the main hall, then passed through the Senbon Torii as they had wished, continued past Kumataka-sha, and turned back just before Yotsutsuji. As a heat stroke alert had been issued that day, although there was a wish to climb to the summit of Mount Inari, they agreed to turn back partway, and we concluded the tour of Fushimi Inari Taisha. Since some of the guests preferred not to overexert themselves, we decided not to push too hard. From Fushimi Inari Taisha we moved to Kiyomizu-dera, walking along the approach with rest breaks along the way. However, due to the heat, smooth movement was difficult. I guided them around the temple grounds, and at the Otowa Waterfall they enjoyed drinking the delicious water. They savored the taste, saying "delicious, delicious." From Kiyomizu-dera, the guests enjoyed views of the Gion area from the car window, and we moved on to Nishiki Market, where I guided them through the market. Once the tour of Nishiki Market was complete, we ended the day's guiding and parted ways at 15:30.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Toshi

    After a rather long teaching experience at Japanese college, I converted my career about 6 years ago into working as a tour guide for the tourists visiting Japan.
    As my career overseas, I’ve been in the UN and the Japanese Embassy, all in the USA, totaling more than 6 years.
    And then I had made a big change in my career from a diplomat to an academic researcher. For that career to achieve, I studied abroad and won a doctorate degree in linguistics from Indiana University and landed a teaching position at college in Japan.
    With all these interesting and exciting experiences I’ve made myself ready to enrich your tour and make it both enjoyable and worthwhile.

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    Apr 26, 2026
    39ferdinandr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Exceptional and entertaining
    Great tour better the tour guide Toshi.

    Apr 9, 2026
    X1429XKclaudiam
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sehr zu empfehlen
    Wir haben als Familie diese 6-stundige Tour durch Kyoto…

    Jun 28, 2025
    WilliamAlfonso_R
    Toshi is a very eloquent, knowledgeable, and diligent tour guide.
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Toshi was…

    May 30, 2025
    Z
    ZevP5
    Best Tour Guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the best guide!! He was so…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Museum

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Museum

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    August, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at cruise ship terminal
    • 9:45-10:57 Travel to Miyajima by shuttle bus and high-speed boat
    • 11:00-13:30 Miyajima
    • 13:40-13:50 Travel to Miyajimaguchi
    • 14:00-14:35 Lunch
    • 14:49-15:30 Travel from Miyajimaguchi to Peace Memorial Park
    • 15:30-16:00 Peace Memorial Park (Dome, Ground Zero, Statue of Sadako, Cenotaph)
    • 16:00-17:00 Museum
    • 17:10-17:30 Travel from Peace Memorial Park to cruise ship terminal by taxi
    • 17:35 Dismissal

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Miyajima and the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. In the morning I took them to Miyajima, and in the afternoon to the Peace Memorial Park. On Miyajima, I brought them to a café with a lovely view, which they seemed to enjoy. They also bought many souvenirs, including Miyajima woodwork. At the Peace Memorial Park, they showed great interest in the historical background of Hiroshima that led to the atomic bombing. Their cruise ship's previous port of call had been Kochi, so we were also able to talk about various things related to Kochi. For lunch, I took them to an okonomiyaki restaurant, which they liked very much and enjoyed eating.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherUjina Port～Miyajima1,150JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi～Yokogawa (Hiroshima Prefecture)330JPY
    Section 3TrainYokogawa (Hiroshima Prefecture)～Atomic Bomb Dome240JPY
    Total1,720JPY

    Tour Report by TO

    Hi! My name is Kazuhisa To. I was born in Nagasaki Prefecture and spent a total of approximately 17 years there. After graduating from university and completing graduate school, I moved to Hiroshima in 1984. Hiroshima has been my home base for more than 42 years, including approximately five and a half years during which I was posted to Germany and the United States. I worked as an engineer at Mazda Motor Corporation for 40 years. While working at Mazda, I earned a Ph.D. in Engineering through a doctoral program designed for working professionals at a national university. During the final five years of my career at Mazda, I was assigned to Hiroshima University, where I served as a Specially Appointed Professor and Deputy Director of a research center. In this role, I led the development of the center’s organizational and operational framework and advanced more than 20 industry–university collaborative research projects across four major research programs, contributing to regional revitalization. Living in Nagasaki, Hiroshima, Germany, and the United States has deepened my appreciation for the distinct histories and cultures of different regions and broadened my international perspective. Drawing on these experiences, I strive to offer tours that allow guests from around the world to feel comfortable and relaxed while enjoying a genuinely engaging experience. After retiring from Mazda at the end of March 2024, I embarked on a new chapter in my life as a licensed local guide in Hiroshima. In addition to renowned destinations such as Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima, I am delighted to introduce guests to Hiroshima’s history, culture, natural beauty, local cuisine, and everyday life, tailoring each tour to their individual interests and preferences. It is my sincere hope that every guest will enjoy a truly personal and memorable experience while discovering the authentic spirit of Hiroshima. I very much look forward to welcoming you to Hiroshima!

    Request Booking

    Sep 28, 2026
    anita2336
    The best time in Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    This was one of…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Mostew
    Private tour with To – Hiroshima / Miyajima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    We…

    Aug 30, 2026
    644lucys
    Fantastic guide, full and wonderful day.
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Today we had…

    Jul 21, 2026
    anza
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Excellent Walking Tour with Kazuhisa To
    We had a…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Peace Memorial Museum

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Peace Memorial Museum

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    August, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Hotel meet
    • 8:00-9:20 Move to Miyajima
    • 9:25-11:30 Miyajima (Great Torii Gate, Itsukushima Shrine, Daishoin Temple, etc.)
    • 11:40-12:40 Move to Peace Memorial Park
    • 12:45-13:00 Atomic Bomb Dome, Hypocenter
    • 13:00-13:40 Lunch
    • 13:40-14:20 Honkawa Elementary School Museum
    • 14:20-14:50 Peace Memorial Park
    • 15:00-16:00 Peace Memorial Museum
    • 16:15-16:30 Move to hotel

    What Is a Private Hiroshima Walking Tour Like in Summer? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from Europe. I had also lived in Europe in the past and had visited their home region several times, so we were able to talk about many things together. On the day of the tour, it was extremely hot, so the guests were very careful about staying hydrated, and I was able to guide them without any trouble. This time, after arranging in advance, I took them to the Honkawa Elementary School Peace Museum. The fact that 400 elementary school children lost their lives in the schoolyard due to the atomic bombing seemed to leave a strong impression on them, and they viewed the exhibits with great interest.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHatchobori／Hiroshima Kotsu～Hiroshima240JPY
    Section 2TrainHiroshima～Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 3TrainMiyajimaguchi～Yokogawa (Hiroshima Prefecture)330JPY
    Section 4TrainYokogawa (Hiroshima Prefecture)～Genbaku Dome-mae240JPY
    Section 5BusPeace Memorial Park／Hiroshima Bus～Hatchobori (Hiroshima Prefecture)240JPY
    Total1,470JPY

    Tour Report by TO

    Hi! My name is Kazuhisa To. I was born in Nagasaki Prefecture and spent a total of approximately 17 years there. After graduating from university and completing graduate school, I moved to Hiroshima in 1984. Hiroshima has been my home base for more than 42 years, including approximately five and a half years during which I was posted to Germany and the United States. I worked as an engineer at Mazda Motor Corporation for 40 years. While working at Mazda, I earned a Ph.D. in Engineering through a doctoral program designed for working professionals at a national university. During the final five years of my career at Mazda, I was assigned to Hiroshima University, where I served as a Specially Appointed Professor and Deputy Director of a research center. In this role, I led the development of the center’s organizational and operational framework and advanced more than 20 industry–university collaborative research projects across four major research programs, contributing to regional revitalization. Living in Nagasaki, Hiroshima, Germany, and the United States has deepened my appreciation for the distinct histories and cultures of different regions and broadened my international perspective. Drawing on these experiences, I strive to offer tours that allow guests from around the world to feel comfortable and relaxed while enjoying a genuinely engaging experience. After retiring from Mazda at the end of March 2024, I embarked on a new chapter in my life as a licensed local guide in Hiroshima. In addition to renowned destinations such as Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima, I am delighted to introduce guests to Hiroshima’s history, culture, natural beauty, local cuisine, and everyday life, tailoring each tour to their individual interests and preferences. It is my sincere hope that every guest will enjoy a truly personal and memorable experience while discovering the authentic spirit of Hiroshima. I very much look forward to welcoming you to Hiroshima!

    Request Booking

    Sep 28, 2026
    anita2336
    The best time in Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    This was one of…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Mostew
    Private tour with To – Hiroshima / Miyajima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    We…

    Aug 30, 2026
    644lucys
    Fantastic guide, full and wonderful day.
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Today we had…

    Jul 21, 2026
    anza
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Excellent Walking Tour with Kazuhisa To
    We had a…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Peace Memorial Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Peace Memorial Park

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    August, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at hotel
    • 8:45-10:20 Travel to Miyajima
    • 10:25-12:30 Miyajima
    • 12:40-13:30 Travel to Hiroshima Station
    • 13:40-14:30 Lunch
    • 14:45-15:00 Travel to Shukkeien Garden
    • 15:00-15:40 Shukkeien Garden
    • 15:40-16:00 Travel to Peace Memorial Park
    • 16:00-17:00 Peace Memorial Park (Dome, Cenotaph, Museum, etc.)
    • 17:00 Disband at the museum

    What Is a Private Full-Day Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. I was told they had once worked in a building very close by at the time of a major terrorist attack. Since I had also visited that memorial site myself, we were able to talk about many things together. On this occasion, the tour visited Miyajima in the morning, followed by Shukkeien Garden and the Peace Memorial Park in the afternoon. At the Peace Memorial Park, the guests listened intently to stories about the atomic bombing and the paper cranes. Regarding the itinerary, due to my own mistake in managing the time allocation, we ended up parting ways inside the museum at the end.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusTakaramachi-kita / Hiroshima Bus～Hiroshima Station240JPY
    Section 2TrainHiroshima～Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 3TrainMiyajimaguchi～Hiroshima420JPY
    Section 4BusHiroshima～Shukkeien-mae240JPY
    Section 5BusShukkeien-mae～Atomic Bomb Dome-mae240JPY
    Total1,560JPY

    Tour Report by TO

    Hi! My name is Kazuhisa To. I was born in Nagasaki Prefecture and spent a total of approximately 17 years there. After graduating from university and completing graduate school, I moved to Hiroshima in 1984. Hiroshima has been my home base for more than 42 years, including approximately five and a half years during which I was posted to Germany and the United States. I worked as an engineer at Mazda Motor Corporation for 40 years. While working at Mazda, I earned a Ph.D. in Engineering through a doctoral program designed for working professionals at a national university. During the final five years of my career at Mazda, I was assigned to Hiroshima University, where I served as a Specially Appointed Professor and Deputy Director of a research center. In this role, I led the development of the center’s organizational and operational framework and advanced more than 20 industry–university collaborative research projects across four major research programs, contributing to regional revitalization. Living in Nagasaki, Hiroshima, Germany, and the United States has deepened my appreciation for the distinct histories and cultures of different regions and broadened my international perspective. Drawing on these experiences, I strive to offer tours that allow guests from around the world to feel comfortable and relaxed while enjoying a genuinely engaging experience. After retiring from Mazda at the end of March 2024, I embarked on a new chapter in my life as a licensed local guide in Hiroshima. In addition to renowned destinations such as Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima, I am delighted to introduce guests to Hiroshima’s history, culture, natural beauty, local cuisine, and everyday life, tailoring each tour to their individual interests and preferences. It is my sincere hope that every guest will enjoy a truly personal and memorable experience while discovering the authentic spirit of Hiroshima. I very much look forward to welcoming you to Hiroshima!

    Request Booking

    Sep 28, 2026
    anita2336
    The best time in Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    This was one of…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Mostew
    Private tour with To – Hiroshima / Miyajima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    We…

    Aug 30, 2026
    644lucys
    Fantastic guide, full and wonderful day.
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Today we had…

    Jul 21, 2026
    anza
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Excellent Walking Tour with Kazuhisa To
    We had a…

  • Tokyo: Toyosu Market

    Tokyo: Toyosu Market

    Tsukiji & Toyosu Market Local Food Tour with Licensed Guide

    September, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 6:25 Meet @Conrad
    • 6:40 Toyosu Market (Seafood Wholesale Building, Seafood Intermediate Wholesale Building)
    • 8:15 Tsukiji (Fish Market, Namiyoke Shrine, Outer Market, Hongwanji Temple
    • 10:00 Yurakucho Kotsu Kaikan, Mitsubishi UFJ Currency Shop
    • 10:30 Disband @Conrad

    Title: What Is a Private Toyosu and Tsukiji Fish Market Food Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time, coming from North America and Asia. We set off after confirming again that the tuna auction could not be viewed. At Toyosu, I explained the background of the market's relocation, the tuna auction system, the role of the expert appraisers, and how distribution routes have changed over time. At Tsukiji Fish Market, the guests purchased sashimi of premium fatty tuna (150g), flatfish, scallop, and medium fatty tuna nigiri, and enjoyed them on the third floor (photo). At the outer market, I advised that September now is different from September in the past, so it was better to avoid it, but the guests decided to try raw oysters anyway. They also enjoyed grilled beef skewers and strawberry daifuku. At the temple, I explained Japanese religion, incorporating comparisons with religion in Asia. Special note: The guests had arranged a full-day Tokyo tour with a car the previous day through a booking platform, but they were very upset because the guide arrived one hour late, lacked knowledge about Japan, and they felt it was a waste of time, so they cut the tour short by an hour and a half. From what I heard, there is a high possibility that the car was an unlicensed taxi.

    Click here for more details: Tsukiji & Toyosu Market Local Food Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTsukiji～Ginza180JPY
    Total180JPY

    Tour Report by Hideki

    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, Ireland, Norway, Sweden, 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

    Request Booking

    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…

  • Okayama in Half a Day: Former Ohashi Family Residence

    Okayama in Half a Day: Former Ohashi Family Residence

    Kurashiki Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    September, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Kurashiki Station
    • 10:20 Former Ohashi Family Residence
    • 11:10 Enter the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter
    • 11:20 Kurashiki Monogatarikan
    • 11:45 Guide from outside the Ohara Museum of Art, Kojima Torajiro Memorial Hall, etc. (closed on Mondays)
    • 12:20 Tourist Information Center
    • 12:40 Stroll along the canal. Introduce Ivy Square (former Kurashiki Spinning Mill), the Toy Museum, Denim Street, masking tape shops, pudding shops, etc.
    • 13:10 Peach dessert and coffee at a cafe
    • 13:50 Guide ends at Kurashiki Station

    What's a Private Walking Tour of Kurashiki's Bikan District Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania. The tour started at the former Ohashi Residence. I explained that the family was originally samurai serving under Toyotomi Hideyoshi, with the surname Sasaki, but after being attacked by Tokugawa Ieyasu, they survived near the foot of Gojo Bridge and changed their name to "Ohashi." The guests were fascinated by this. I also introduced the episode of how, although they were merchants in Kurashiki, their achievements were recognized, and the Tokugawa shogunate permitted them to build a residence in the samurai style. The guests were deeply moved. In the Bikan Historical Quarter, since it was a Monday, many facilities such as the Ohara Museum of Art were closed, but the guests said, "We have no plans tomorrow, so please guide us through everything," and we covered the entire standard guiding course. At a cafe we enjoyed Kurashiki's famous "peach dessert," and the guests exclaimed, "This is the most delicious thing I've ever had!!"

    Click here for more details: Kurashiki Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Tour Report by Shuji

    My name is Shuji, meaning “Excellent Manager” in English. I was born in Hiroshima 1952. I have 2 children and 3 grandchildren.
    After graduating Kyoto Univ. I joined Mitsubishi-UFJ Bank, Osaka Branch where I met my wife who was a master of Englsih, so I started studying English.
    The bank allowed me to go to Columbia Graduate business school in New York and got MBA Degree there. I worked in London and Manchester Branch.
    During staying in U.K., I was introduced by BBC and Financial Times News Paper about my achievement there. I was selected as a personal assistant and interpreter for the President of the Bank.
    I made many business trips with him to overseas countries. I experienced as an interpreter for meeting late Henry Kissinger and the President of Citi. Corp.
    I changed the job to ORIX corporation, there I was promoted to a Board Member. When the company had acquired Dutch company, I was a member as an accountant to check the Dutch company’s statements of accounts.
    My hobbies are cooking, singing a song, playing tennis & golf, enjoy seeing arts especially opera & musical, travel. I am also busy with taking care of grandchildren. I passed Government Licensed Guide Exam. in 2016. After I retired in 2017, I started guide job as a part timer. So far, I accomplished guide job more than 500 times.
    My area coverage is from Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji to Kyoto, Nara, Oaka, Hiroshima. I am also able to guide Tea Ceremony, Maiko/Geisha, Sushi Making, Calligraphy, Sumo, Samurai, etc. I can speak excellent English. My knowledge is very wide and deep about not only sightseeing places but Japanese History, Culture, Religion, Daily Life. I know many foreign countries and people. I love talking with all kinds of people including babies with interesting humor.
    By the way, I look young for my age of 74.

    Request Booking

    Sep 16, 2026
    Nusret_K
    See the best of Tokyo for a few hours
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide…

    Jul 16, 2026
    salomons666
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto fun
    Amazing with our guide Shuji very kind and acknowledge

    Jul 15, 2026
    P9099TXkennethr
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    A great day
    A great day in the Company of mr. Shuji.

    Jun 28, 2026
    A
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    AmyfromPlano
    Shuji is the best! Once we booked this tour, he reached…