Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto: Kofuku-ji Temple & Higashimuki Shopping Street

    Kyoto: Kofuku-ji Temple & Higashimuki Shopping Street

    Nara Day Trip from Kyoto: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Hotel Kanra Kyoto
    • 10:00 to 10:50 Kofuku-ji Temple
    • 11:00 to 11:30 Nara Park
    • 11:30 to 12:30 Todai-ji Temple
    • 12:45 to 13:00 Nigatsu-do Hall
    • 13:15 to 13:45 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 14:00 to 14:45 Lunch at Higashimuki Shopping Street
    • 14:45 to 15:30 Shopping at Higashimuki Shopping Street
    • 16:45 Hotel Kanra Kyoto

    What Is a Private Nara Day Tour Like for Guests Visiting Japan? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. They live in a very cold region, and during the humid rainy season they appeared tired after several consecutive days of touring. Since they preferred to minimize walking, we took the bus twice. Even so, they still seemed tired, and although we had planned to visit Toshodai-ji Temple after lunch, they requested to spend that time shopping instead, so I arranged it accordingly. They mentioned that tomorrow they would return to Tokyo and then depart for home.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSubway Gojo Station～Kintetsu Nara Station1,020JPY
    Section 2BusNara Kotsu Bus Kencho-mae Kofuku-ji～Todai-ji Daibutsuden Kasuga Taisha250JPY
    Section 3BusNara Kotsu Bus Kasuga Taisha Honden～Kintetsu Nara Station-mae250JPY
    Section 4TrainKintetsu Nara Station～Subway Gojo Station1,020JPY
    Total2,540JPY

    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 !!

    Request Booking

    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 Local Shopping Streets Tour

    Tokyo Local Shopping Streets Tour

    Tokyo Local Shopping Streets Tour with Licensed Guide

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00　Meet up @ Tokyo International Cruise Terminal
    • 2. 11:05　@ In front of Meiji Shrine Torii Gate
    • 3. 11:15 @ Harajuku (in front of the station, Takeshita Street, Omotesando)
    • 4. 12:30　@ Shibuya Cat Street (walk from the Harajuku side to the Shibuya side)
    • 5. 13:00　@ Shibuya Cat Street (arrive at the Shibuya side)
    • 6. 13:30　Lunch @ Miyashita Park
    • 7. 14:15　@ Mega Don Quijote Shibuya
    • 8. 15:45　@ Yanaka Shopping Street
    • 9. 17:00　Tour ends @ International Cruise Terminal

    Title: What's a Private Tokyo Shopping Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Harajuku, Shibuya, and Yanaka The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They had already traveled around various parts of western Japan by cruise ship, and Tokyo was their final sightseeing destination. The day after this tour, they planned to visit the Imperial Palace and a Japanese garden, then head straight to the airport for their return flight. Today's Tokyo walking tour focused on shopping. To use the time efficiently, when interests within the group differed regarding certain shops, they visited different stores separately during the same time slot. In those cases, since the group was focused mainly on fulfilling the shopping interests of one of the guests, I, as the [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide, first accompanied that person to assist with shopping, and afterward helped another of the guests with their shopping. They visited more than ten shops in areas such as Harajuku's Takeshita Street, Cat Street, and Shibuya. As a result, although not everything was a Japanese brand, they purchased a wide variety of items including bags, beauty goods, cosmetics, and souvenirs. The item of greatest interest was cosmetics, especially Korean-brand makeup, which could not be found at ordinary drugstores. After searching online, we discovered it could be obtained at Don Quijote. So after lunch in Shibuya, I guided them to Mega Don Quijote, where they found the exact blush from the brand they had been looking for. They were very pleased. They were also surprised to find many other brands at prices far cheaper than back home and bought a great deal. On Takeshita Street, they showed strong interest in animal cafés, but both of the two dog cafés and an otter café had wait times of 20 to 30 minutes, so they gave up on those. By chance, however, they enjoyed taking photos at a costume purikura photo booth nearby and seemed very satisfied. At the Yanaka shopping street, they also looked at accessory shops and pottery stores, and enjoyed eating crepes standing up. Since the original six-hour tour had already passed, I checked with them, and the guests said, "We have already enjoyed shopping enough and have bought everything we needed to buy." So the final planned stop, Ameyoko in Ueno, was skipped at the guests' decision, and I saw them off at the International Cruise Terminal Station.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Local Shopping Streets Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainYurikamome Line　Tokyo International Cruise Terminal Station～Shimbashi Station390JPY
    Section 2TrainJR Yamanote Line　Shimbashi Station～Harajuku Station210JPY
    Section 3TrainJR Yamanote Line　Shibuya Station～Nippori Station210JPY
    Section 4TrainTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line　Sendagi Station～Hibiya Station180JPY
    Section 5TrainJR Yamanote Line　Yurakucho Station～Shimbashi Station150JPY
    Section 6TrainYurikamome Line　Shimbashi Station～Tokyo International Cruise Terminal Station390JPY
    Total1,530JPY

    Tour Report by Noripy

    Hello, I’m Noripy.
    I am a lively woman in my 60s who loves having fun. My charm lies in my bright and approachable personality. Drawing on over 30 years of international experience, I began working as a tour guide in 2023. I have conducted over 100 tours annually, ensuring that my clients enjoy Tokyo and its surrounding areas. I have received high praise from a wide range of customers, from teenagers to people in their 80s. I cater to solo travelers, couples, newlyweds, families, and groups of up to about 10 people. Living in the heart of the city, I actively guide tours primarily in Tokyo. In addition to being certified in English, one of my strengths is being able to communicate effectively in Spanish as well.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you all in Tokyo!

    Request Booking

    Jul 3, 2026
    Jody D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from Yokohama
    Best Post cruise tour ever
    It was…

    June 19, 2026
    Alec T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo in 4 hours
    Noripy was excellent! She guided us through…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Hema_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely experience. My…
    Lovely experience. My guide was an absolutely adorable lady…

    Jun 3, 2026
    Sara B
    Tokyo walking tour with Noripy. A+!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Noripy gave a 5/5 tour!…

  • Osaka: Todaiji Great Buddha Hall & Naramachi

    Osaka: Todaiji Great Buddha Hall & Naramachi

    Nara Day Trip from Osaka: Customized Tour, Licensed Guide

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet @ Osaka Port
    • 11:10 Todaiji Great Buddha Hall
    • 12:22 Kasuga Taisha Shrine
    • 13:12 Lunch
    • 14:27 Shin-Yakushiji Temple
    • 15:17 Naramachi
    • 17:35 Disband @ Osaka Port

    What's a Private Day Trip from Osaka Port to Nara Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They were touring Japan by cruise ship, and on this day the tour started from Osaka Port. The morning rain had mostly cleared, but it turned out to be a very hot and humid day. We arrived at Nara Park as scheduled, and some of the guests enjoyed feeding the deer. A newborn fawn had just been released into the park, which also caught their interest. We proceeded to Shinyakushiji Temple as planned, but perhaps because of the heat and humidity, one of the guests became quite tired, so we changed the plan, took the bus back to downtown, and had them enjoy shopping in the shopping arcade before returning to Osaka Port almost on schedule.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOsaka Port～Namba580JPY
    Section 2TrainNamba～Kintetsu Nara1,360JPY
    Section 3BusKintetsu Nara Station Front～Todaiji Great Buddha Hall & Kasuga Taisha Front250JPY
    Section 4BusTamukeyama Nigatsudo Front～Kasuga Taisha Main Shrine250JPY
    Section 5BusWariishicho～Kintetsu Nara Station Front250JPY
    Total2,690JPY

    Tour Report by Hiro

    Thanks for joining our tour. I’m Hiro Nakagawa, assigned to be your guide for this tour. I was eligible as a National Licensed Tour Guide in 2017. I have guided many tourists from overseas since then. Japan is a beautiful country with full of various attractions. Please enjoy your time in this country to the fullest. I will help you with that. What are you interested in this country? I will introduce this country’s long history, traditional culture, beautiful seasonal highlights, and delicious food to you. Please let me know your preferences. If it’s other than which I mentioned, I’m preparing it for you as much as possible. Let’s enjoy the trip together!

    Request Booking

    Jul 13, 2025
    H2enjoy
    Wonderful Day Trip to Mt. Koya from the Osaka Cruise Terminal
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure)…

    Jun 20, 2025
    zoranm709
    Kyoto great tour experience.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyed the sites we were taken. Hiro was…

    Jun 18, 2025
    Adventurer310309
    Cool surprises on our Osaka and Kyoto tours with Hiro.
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife…

    May 26, 2025
    SK G
    Excellent tour
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mr. Hiro provided an excellent experience. Personable…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace East Gardens & Shibuya

    Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace East Gardens & Shibuya

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at Hotel
    • 10:00 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 11:30 Tsukiji
    • 12:20 Lunch at Tsukiji
    • 13:30 Ginza
    • 14:20 Shibuya
    • 15:40 Return to hotel and end tour

    What's a Private Walking Tour in Japan Like? A Licensed Guide's Report We met at the hotel lobby as planned and started the tour. The guests were visitors from Oceania. Although I had some slight concern about whether long-distance walking might be difficult, they walked with great energy, and my worry turned out to be unnecessary. In addition to explaining the tour sites, we were able to proceed with the tour while having enjoyable conversations about each other, including work and hobbies. Although it began to drizzle in the afternoon, there were no major issues, and I believe the tour was carried out smoothly.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinjuku～Otemachi209JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi～Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 3SubwayGinza～Shibuya209JPY
    Section 4SubwayShibuya～Shinjuku-sanchome178JPY
    Total774JPY

    Tour Report by Takeshi

    Welcome to Japan!
    My name is Takeshi Yamada, a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter based in the vibrant city of Yokohama, Kanagawa.
    Born and raised in Minamiuonuma City, Niigata Prefecture, renowned for its exquisite rice and sake, I deeply appreciate Japan’s culinary delights. I love sharing laughs, exploring diverse cultures and histories, and playing tennis.
    I specialize in guiding tours around Yokohama, Kamakura, Fuji-Hakone, Tokyo, and the surrounding Kanto areas. With years of experience in multinational corporations, I excel in English communication and making foreign visitors feel at home.
    Whether you’re interested in historical landmarks, authentic cultural experiences, savoring Japanese cuisine, enjoying lively Izakaya spots, or soaking in urban energy, my tours are tailored to your interests. I am committed to providing exceptional service, ensuring each guest receives personalized attention and creates unforgettable memories.
    My greatest joy is seeing my guests fall in love with Japan, taking home cherished memories and a deeper understanding of this beautiful country.
    I look forward to meeting you and being your friendly, knowledgeable guide.

    See you soon!

    Request Booking

    Jun 5, 2026
    cathywB8167WE
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Great 8 hour tour of Tokyo
    Takeshi was great with…

    May 13, 2026
    Kim_T
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Experience Tokyo like a local…,
    It was a wonderful way…

    May 11, 2026
    Trenee_J
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Takeshi did an amazing…
    Takeshi did an amazing job helping us plan…

    Apr 17, 2026
    Dianne_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Takeshi was our guide. He…
    Takeshi was our guide. He…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Peace Memorial Park & Miyajima

    Hiroshima in One Day: Peace Memorial Park & Miyajima

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

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:35 Cruise ship terminal meet
    • 7:45-8:05 Travel to Peace Memorial Park by taxi
    • 8:10-9:50 Peace Memorial Park
    • 10:00-11:35 Travel to Miyajima
    • 11:40-14:40 Miyajima
    • 15:00-15:22 Travel to Ujina Port by high-speed boat
    • 15:45-15:55 Travel to cruise ship terminal by shuttle bus
    • 15:55 Dismissal

    Title: What Is a Private Hiroshima Cruise-Port Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Peace Memorial Park The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. Before the tour, I coordinated the itinerary thoroughly with the group's representative, and we began the tour. However, there was a problem regarding the payment of the taxi fare (about 2,400 yen) when we moved from the cruise ship terminal to the Peace Memorial Park. One of the guests became very upset, believing that the taxi fare had already been included in the amount collected in cash when we met at the cruise ship terminal (which covered only the high-speed boat, ferry, JR, and admission fees). When I had coordinated with the group's representative in advance, we had compared the time and cost of taking a taxi versus the tram and had chosen the taxi, and I had clearly stated in the itinerary that the amount collected at the meeting point did not include the taxi fare. Nevertheless, the guest insisted that this was irrelevant and became agitated, leaving no room for discussion. Fortunately, another guest said that since it had been clearly noted in the itinerary there was no problem, and the matter was resolved amicably. On reflection, I feel I should have verbally reminded all the guests once more, at the time of collecting the cash, that the taxi fare was not included. I want to apply this lesson to my future guiding work. Afterward, the mood improved so much that during the tour the guests even offered to treat me to snacks and drinks, and in the end we were able to finish the tour pleasantly on both sides. I am also grateful for the support of the [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) representative who advised me on that day.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainAtomic Bomb Dome～Yokogawa240JPY
    Section 2TrainYokogawa～Miyajimaguchi330JPY
    Section 3OtherMiyajima～Ujina1,150JPY
    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

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

    Jun 25, 2026
    52leannei
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Amazing day trip and tour to Hiroshima
    My family…

    Jun 14, 2026
    Shannon_M
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide was amazing. He…
    Our guide was amazing. He…

    Jun 14, 2026
    Thomas L
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima Tour with a Great Guide
    Our guide Kazuhisa…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

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

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Hotel meet
    • 10:00 Miyajima
    • 13:00 Lunch
    • 14:00 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 17:00 Dismissal in front of the Atomic Bomb Dome

    What's a Private Day Tour of Miyajima and Hiroshima Peace Park Like? A Licensed Guide's Report On this day, I guided a group visiting from North America. They were staying in Japan for an extended trip and were very friendly throughout. At the start of the tour, I showed them some photos on my smartphone from a family wedding the previous year, which helped break the ice in a relaxed atmosphere. One of the guests had lost their JR Pass the day before, so with convenience of travel and smooth payment in mind, I lent them an ICOCA card I had prepared in advance for their use. In the afternoon, the sunshine grew stronger and the temperature rose considerably. Noticing that one of the guests seemed a little short of breath, I suggested buying a frozen bottled drink at a convenience store. Holding it against the neck helped cool the body down and proved effective as a measure against heatstroke. Since the risk of heatstroke and dehydration is high at this time of year, I repeatedly reminded the guests to stay hydrated throughout the tour. While being careful not to come across as overbearing, I prioritized the guests' well-being above all. The tour proceeded without any major trouble, and we were able to complete it safely from start to finish. The [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) private tour covered Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima, including proper worship etiquette, the Kaidan-meguri at Daisho-in Temple, a stroll along Maple Road, and a moment of silent tribute at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. The weather was cloudy with occasional sunshine. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) is one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures. Winner of Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKenchomae～Shin-Hakushima190JPY
    Section 2TrainShin-Hakushima～Miyajimaguchi Station330JPY
    Section 3TrainMiyajimaguchi Station～Nishi-Hiroshima Station330JPY
    Section 4BusJapanese～Hiroshima Peace Park240JPY
    Total1,090JPY

    Tour Report by Yuji

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Osaka in One Day: Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine & Shinsaibashi

    Osaka in One Day: Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine & Shinsaibashi

    Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Meet @Hotel
    • 09:15 @Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
    • 10:45 @Kuromon Market
    • 12:15 @Dotonbori
    • 13:00 @Shinsaibashi (Daimaru Department Store, Pokemon Center)
    • 13:45 Dismissal @Shinsaibashi Daimaru Department Store

    Title: What's a Private Osaka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Sumiyoshi Taisha, Kuromon Market, and Dotonbori Body: The guests were a group visiting from North America, and this marked the third consecutive day I had guided guests from the same region. According to the guests, summer vacation in their area begins earlier than in other parts of the region, which may be one reason so many visitors were traveling at the same time. Everything went smoothly throughout the day. At each spot, the guests listened attentively to my explanations. At Sumiyoshi Taisha, they offered prayers, collected the popular "Go-Dai-Riki" pebbles, and purchased amulet pouches. At Kuromon Market, they enjoyed a variety of tastings and samples, including takoyaki, fruit, roasted chestnuts, dried fruit, black bean tea, fatty tuna, salmon, and scallops, and they also bought souvenirs. In Dotonbori, they tried the soft-serve ice cream made famous by the Turkish performer and seemed very satisfied. After visiting the Pokémon Center inside the Daimaru department store in Shinsaibashi, the guests said they wished to explore on their own, so we parted ways more than 40 minutes ahead of schedule. They were very friendly toward Japan and left a very favorable impression. As they hoped to visit Himeji and Kobe the following day if possible, I sent them recommended spots and related information by email.

    Click here for more details: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayUmeda～Namba240JPY
    Section 2TrainNamba～Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine240JPY
    Section 3TrainSumiyoshi Taisha Shrine～Namba240JPY
    Total720JPY

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

    This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
    I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
    real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
    if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

    Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
    that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
    and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
    foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
    Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
    explanation for these three foods.

    1) Tako-yaki
    Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
    octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
    2) Okonomi-yaki
    This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
    Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
    3) Kushi-katsu
    Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
    ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

    Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
    that you like them very much.

    I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
    and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
    great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

    Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
    Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
    Yama

    Request Booking

    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Diane_B
    Viator review: Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Yama was amazing!!
    Our tour guide…

    Jul 4, 2026
    Navigator661725
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful time!
    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…

  • 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

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:45 Meet at cruise ship terminal
    • 8:25-8:57 Travel from Ujina Port to Miyajima by high-speed boat
    • 9:00-10:40 Miyajima
    • 10:50-12:10 Travel to Peace Memorial Park
    • 13:00-14:30 Peace Memorial Park
    • 14:40 Dismissal (guests travel to cruise ship terminal by taxi)
    • 14:40-15:50 (I will travel to the cruise ship terminal by streetcar)

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Miyajima and Hiroshima Peace Park from the Cruise Terminal Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. From the cruise ship terminal, we walked about 20 minutes to the high-speed boat terminal bound for Miyajima. After sightseeing on Miyajima in the morning, we traveled to the Peace Memorial Park using a ferry, JR, and a local line. For lunch, after some prior coordination, I eventually took the group to a tempura restaurant, and they appeared very satisfied. After visiting the Peace Memorial Museum, we parted ways at the Peace Memorial Park: the guests took a taxi back to the cruise ship terminal, while I used the streetcar. This private day tour was arranged through [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures and winner of the Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best.

    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～Shin-Hakushima330JPY
    Section 3TrainShin-Hakushima～Prefectural Office190JPY
    Section 4TrainAtomic Bomb Dome～Kaigandori240JPY
    Total1,910JPY

    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!

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

    Jun 25, 2026
    52leannei
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Amazing day trip and tour to Hiroshima
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    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
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    Hiroshima Tour with a Great Guide
    Our guide Kazuhisa…

  • Nara in One Day: JR Nara Station

    Nara in One Day: JR Nara Station

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet @ Hotel Nikko Nara
    • 10:55-11:10 JR Nara Station → Todaiji-mae Bus 250 yen
    • 11:20-13:00 Todaiji Great Buddha Hall & Nigatsudo sightseeing
    • 13:30-14:15 Lunch @ Japanese cuisine cafe Comfy
    • 14:30-16:00 Kofukuji & Naramachi shopping street sightseeing
    • 16:10 Disband @ Kintetsu Nara Station

    A Private Nara Day Tour Report from a Japan Guide Agency Licensed Guide: What Can You See in One Day? I guided a group from North America around Nara. The weather was rainy, but the group had a cheerful spirit, and we were able to enjoy the tour together. Since the guests wanted to interact with the deer and feed them deer crackers, I changed the plan and started with Nara Park and Todaiji Temple first. For lunch, we went to Comfy in Naramachi, a place I have been relying on recently. The staff kindly accommodated the request that some of the guests do not eat meat, and the meal was very well received as delicious. After lunch, we visited the Treasure Hall and the Central Golden Hall of Kofukuji Temple. The statues of the Twelve Heavenly Generals in the Treasure Hall reportedly share some elements in common with certain aspects of Indian religious tradition, so I myself was able to learn a great deal about the connection between Buddhism and other religious traditions.

    Click here for more details: Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusJR Nara Station～Todaiji-mae250JPY
    Total250JPY

    Tour Report by AndyMurao

    Hello! I am Andy Murao. I love this job as I can visit various destinations with the people from all over the world. I am always thinking that I could help you know more about Japan and understand the attractiveness of Japan.

    I would like to provide a tour in accordance with your request and preference. Please let me know what you want to see, eat, experience, etc. and then I will propose a schedule based on them.

    There is one point to note. I like walking very much, so I might be a guide who forces you to take long walks.

    I look forward to attending you in Japan.

    Best regards,

    Andy Murao

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    Jul 13, 2026
    webstere2025
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent
    Andy(Atsushi) was great and communicated with us beforehand about our…

    Jun 21, 2026
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    First time in Osaka
    Andy was great . On time and patience…

    Jun 6, 2026
    eyeessess
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
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    Andy Murao was an amazing and wonderful tour guide.…

    Jun 5, 2026
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  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Market & Akihabara

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tsukiji Market & Akihabara

    Tsukiji Local Food & Culture Half-Day Tour, Licensed Guide

    June, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11：50　Meet up @ Starbucks Shibuya Tsutaya 2F
    • 12：40　Tsukiji Market
    • 13：20　Lunch @ Sushi Sei Shinkan
    • 14：40　Imperial Palace
    • 15：30　Akihabara
    • 16：20　Disband @ Akihabara

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Tokyo Day Tour of Tsukiji, the Imperial Palace, and Akihabara? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America, and it was their first time in Japan. They planned to sightsee in Tokyo and then travel on to Kyoto. At Tsukiji, they explored the outer market and the Tsukiji fish market, and enjoyed a sushi lunch. 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. In Akihabara, some of the guests were fascinated by the anime shops and other stores. Since they wanted to do more shopping in Akihabara and have dinner before returning to their accommodation on their own, we parted ways in Akihabara. I responded to all of the guests' requests as they wished, so I believe they were satisfied.

    Click here for more details: Tsukiji Local Food & Culture Half-Day Tour, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShibuya～Tsukiji700JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji～Nijubashimae0JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijubashimae～Shin-Ochanomizu0JPY
    Section 4TrainOchanomizu～Akihabara150JPY
    Total850JPY

    Tour Report by Seizo

    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

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    Jul 10, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
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    Seizo Kaminto is een uitstekende…