Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet at the lobby of Hotel. After reconfirming the route discussed in advance via email and hearing about the overall schedule of this tour, we decided on Sensoji Temple → Shibuya ← Meiji Shrine ← Takeshita Street, and to have lunch whenever we got hungry. While explaining the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building next to the hotel, we moved to Shinjuku Station on the Marunouchi Line.
    • 10:15-12:00 Guided tour of Sensoji Temple. In the order of Kaminarimon → Nakamise Street → Hozomon → Main Hall → Stone Bridge → Asakusa Shrine ← Kannon Street. Found many shops they wanted to shop at, so decided to come again another day. Moved to Shibuya by subway.
    • 12:50-13:15 Guided tour of the Shibuya Scramble Crossing in Shibuya. Since they wanted to have lunch here, we went to "Oreryu Shio Ramen" in Center Gai.
    • 13:15-14:05 Lunch. Had ramen and gyoza for lunch at "Oreryu Shio Ramen" in Shibuya Center Gai. After finishing, moved to Harajuku.
    • 14:20-15:10 Guided tour of Meiji Shrine. After finishing, headed to Takeshita Street.
    • 15:20-15:30 At the entrance of Takeshita Street (Harajuku Station side), explained an overview of the shops on Takeshita Street and ended the tour.

    Title: What Can You Do on a Private Full-Day Tokyo Tour for a Family Visiting Japan? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a family from North America. They were on a long stay in Japan, with an itinerary that moved from central Tokyo to Tokyo Disneyland, then Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima, before returning to Tokyo and flying home from Narita. Because of this, they asked to spend the day gathering various kinds of information needed for their stay in Japan, such as using public transportation, culture, and customs, so I focused on providing that kind of information throughout the tour. They were a very thoughtful family who listened attentively to my explanations at each location and asked many questions, making them a very rewarding group to guide. For lunch they wanted something light, so we went to a shio ramen shop I often use in Shibuya. Everyone said it was delicious and finished their meals, which made me happy. Since they would be in Japan for a long stay, I provided the information they needed, such as how to get from Shinjuku to the hotel near Disneyland, how to purchase Shinkansen tickets, and details about central Hiroshima and Miyajima, and they were very pleased. Given the long stay, I also gave detailed advice about coping with the heat. As temperatures in Tokyo were expected to reach around 37 degrees, I made sure to explain precautions so they would stay safe.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassShinjuku～Asakusa700JPY
    Section 2Free PassAsakusa～Shibuya0JPY
    Section 3Free PassShibuya～Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Total700JPY

    Tour Report by MINORUASAI

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima

    Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 15:00 Guest contacted us saying they would be 30 minutes late, meet at the Sheraton
    • 15:00-16:00 Travel to Miyajima
    • 16:00-18:30 Miyajima
    • 18:30 Disband at Miyajima

    Can You Do a Private Afternoon Tour of Miyajima and the Great Torii Gate? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from Europe. They had arrived in Osaka the day before via a connecting flight, so they were still experiencing jet lag and looked quite tired. On the day of the tour, the 14:30 meeting time was delayed because they were unable to catch their scheduled bullet train, so we started the tour about 30 minutes late. Judging that we would not make it in time for the closing hours of Daishoin Temple, I had the guests stroll around the area near the Great Torii Gate instead. Since the guests wished to see the sunset on Miyajima, we chose to conclude the tour on the island. The weather was fine that day, and I believe the guests thoroughly enjoyed the sight of the sun setting behind the Great Torii Gate.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima～Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Total420JPY

    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…

  • Kyoto: Fushimi Inari & Higashiyama Area

    Kyoto: Fushimi Inari & Higashiyama Area

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    August, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Meet
    • 9:25 Fushimi Inari
    • 11:00 Kinkaku-ji
    • 12:00 Lunch (Sushi)
    • 13:00 Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 14:00 Higashiyama Area
    • 15:00 Return to Hotel, Tour Ends

    What Is a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like on a Hot Summer Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests visited Japan from Europe. They fully understood that the tour was taking place on a hot day and walked in the shade whenever possible. This was especially useful at the Kyoto Imperial Palace, where shade is limited, so they walked along the shaded areas near the buildings. They also understood that time was limited, so they did not go shopping. The highest temperature today was 36.5 degrees, but it felt even hotter than the number suggested. The sushi lunch was their first since arriving in Japan, and they really enjoyed it. The photo was taken at Kinkaku-ji.

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

    Tour Report by KAZU

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

    Request Booking

    Sep 28, 2026
    Miguel_E
    Amazing Service
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful time with Kazuo.…

    Sep 27, 2026
    T
    TrailBlazer47194
    Kazuo Sumi is a great guide.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Our guide Kazuo Sumi…

    Sep 1, 2026
    Steve6172014
    Excellent tour of Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour…

    Aug 7, 2026
    Pascale_Q
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Very good private tour of Kyoto with Kazuo
    We had…

  • Hiroshima: Peace Memorial Park by streetcar & Peace Memorial Museum

    Hiroshima: Peace Memorial Park by streetcar & Peace Memorial Museum

    Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel meeting
    • 9:10-9:20 Move to Peace Memorial Park by streetcar
    • 9:20-9:40 Visit the Dome and hypocenter
    • 9:40-9:50 Move to Honkawa Elementary School Museum
    • 9:50-10:20 Visit Honkawa Elementary School Museum
    • 10:30-11:20 Peace Memorial Park
    • 11:30-12:45 Peace Memorial Museum
    • 13:00 Disband

    Title: What Is a 4-Hour Private Walking Tour of Hiroshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. During a 4-hour city tour, the group wished to learn thoroughly about the history of Hiroshima and the damage caused by the atomic bomb, so [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guided them to the Honkawa Elementary School Museum, where it is said that around 400 elementary school children lost their lives in the atomic bombing. Compared to the Peace Memorial Museum, this site is much smaller in scale, but with fewer visitors it offered a quiet environment in which the group could gain solid knowledge about the effects of the atomic bomb, and they appeared very satisfied. On the other hand, some of the many photographs in the Peace Memorial Museum were a little too intense for one of the younger guests, who often looked away. It might have been better to provide the group with a little background information before entering the museum.

    Click here for more details: Hiroshima Peace Park Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherEbisucho～Genbaku Dome-mae240JPY
    Total240JPY

    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 in One Day: Tokyo Station & National Museum of Art

    Tokyo in One Day: Tokyo Station & National Museum of Art

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 10:30 Tokyo Station
    • 11:00 Imperial Palace / Nijubashi Bridge
    • 12:20 Nezu Shrine
    • 13:50 National Museum of Art
    • 16:00 End of tour

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Tokyo with a Licensed Guide Like? A Guide's Report on Nezu Shrine and a National Museum The guests were a group visiting from Europe. They had spent five nights in Asia before arriving in Japan just the previous night. After this they planned to stay in Tokyo for several nights and then travel on to Iiyama, Kanazawa, Kyoto, and Osaka, with some of the guests continuing to travel around Japan for a further ten days. One of the guests had been studying Japanese independently and asked many questions during the tour about Japanese expressions and grammar. The entire group was very eager to learn and already had a fair amount of knowledge about Japanese history, so I made an effort to give explanations that bridged the gaps and connected their understanding. At Nezu Shrine, I explained Shinto in detail, and at a national museum, I gave a thorough explanation of the flow of Japanese history and the differences in government and culture across the various eras. At the end, the guests were going to have dinner with a friend, so we concluded the tour there.

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

    Tour Report by Atsushi

    Hello and welcome to Tokyo!

    I have been working for business with American companies for many years. I have many experiences guiding customers from around the world in Japan and taking Japanese customers to the USA and Europe.

    I now have a national license as a guiding interpreter, and I want to introduce the unique gigantic city of Tokyo and the traditional Japanese culture, which is not shown in the guidebooks, to people worldwide who are interested in it. In addition, I want to introduce various Japanese foods you can enjoy only in Japan.
    Unique experiences such as the Sumo Training Viewing and Tea Ceremony are optionally available.
    Depending on your preference and itinerary, I can guide you in Tokyo, Kamakura, and Hakone so that you can enjoy your time in Japan.

    Request Booking

    Aug 18, 2026
    Heather_C
    Private tour for 4 in Tokyo – highly recommend
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide…

    Aug 8, 2026
    victoriahD2588SK
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    An action packed visit to Hakone!
    Atsushi was an…

    Jul 26, 2026
    Kevin_B
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Highly recommend this tour for first time…

    Jun 22, 2026
    Ashish_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best Tour for a Short Visit
    Atsushi-san was an incredibly well-researched and…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima

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

    July, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Meet at the Shinkansen exit of Hiroshima Station
    • 11:12 Travel to Miyajima
    • 12:00 Sightseeing in Miyajima
    • 15:20 Travel to Hiroshima
    • 16:05 Sightseeing at the hypocenter, Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Park, and Peace Memorial Museum
    • 17:15 Travel to Hiroshima Station
    • 18:30 Disband at MINAMOA, Hiroshima Station

    What Is a Private Day Trip from Kyoto to Hiroshima and Miyajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report This was a booking confirmed in July. At first I was worried because I could not reach the guests and did not know the meeting point, but thanks to the careful support of Mr. Yasuda at [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), the meeting point was confirmed two days beforehand, and I learned it would be a day trip from Kyoto. The booking listed two adults, but it turned out to be the group. It was the third visit to Japan for one of the guests, who had not been to Hiroshima and Miyajima in twenty years. It was unfortunate that there was a JR train delay on the way to Miyajimaguchi, along with severe heat under a heatstroke warning alert, but both guests enjoyed Miyajima, and I was delighted that they listened so attentively to my explanations at the Peace Park despite the heat.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima～Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2JGA Pre-Approved FeeMiyajima Port～Motoyasu Bridge1,100JPY
    Total1,520JPY

    Tour Report by Emmy

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace & Shibuya

    Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace & Shibuya

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    August, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hilton Tokyo
    • 9:45 Imperial Palace (Nijubashi Bridge)
    • 10:30 Stroll around Tsukiji
    • 11:00 Lunch at Sushisei
    • 12:00 Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple
    • 12:30 Harajuku & Takeshita Street
    • 13:30 Stroll around Shibuya
    • 15:00 Disband at Hilton Tokyo

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report on the Imperial Palace, Tsukiji, Harajuku, and Shibuya The guests were a group visiting from North America. One of the guests travels to Japan regularly for work several times a year and has visited around 30 times in total, while this was the first visit to Japan for another member of the group, who was traveling to mark a graduation. They were staying for about a week, and since it was already the fourth day of their trip, jet lag was no longer an issue. We visited the Imperial Palace, walking from Kasumigaseki Station via Sakuradamon Gate to the Nijubashi Bridge. After that, we headed to Tsukiji. The guests enjoyed deep-fried corn and mango ice cream before going to a sushi restaurant. Since it opened at 11:00, we were able to enter without waiting in line. They seemed very satisfied, commenting that "the quality was excellent and fresh, and the price was reasonable." Afterwards, they enjoyed a matcha latte, and purchased some matcha as a gift for friends. Next, we browsed vintage clothing shops along Takeshita Street. Our final stop was Shibuya, where we visited the Hachiko statue, walked through Center Gai, and stopped at Loft, where a folding umbrella was purchased. As there was nothing in particular they wished to see next, we returned to the Hotel and parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free Pass900～0900JPY
    Total900JPY

    Tour Report by AYAKA

    Hello! My name is Ayaka.
    I originally come from Osaka, but now live in Saitama . I have a 19-year-old daughter and a 16-year-old son.
    My hobbies are cooking, baking sweets, playing the piano and watching movies.

    On weekdays, I work as a part-time English teacher at a boys’ junior high school and a high school. Since 2023, I have started working as a tour guide on weekends and long vacations. It is mainly private tours for small groups.

    I strongly believe that it is my calling to tell the greatest points of Japan to many foreigners. Through my guiding, I will do my best to give you as good an impression of Japan as possible.

    Request Booking

    Mar 28, 2026
    Destination424937
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Japan
    Ayaka was knowledgeable and she took us to some historical highlights of Tokyo .

    Mar 19, 2035
    L9685HWdianan
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing Tokyo Tour with Ayaka ? Kind, Knowledgeable & Memorable Experience
    We…

    Oct 10, 2025
    Maxkerry
    Great day in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    An excellent day with Ayaka in Tokyo. She…

    Oct 4, 2025
    D
    Donna_S
    Private tour of Tokyo with Ayaka of Japan Guide Agency
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very…

  • Kanagawa: Hokokuji Temple & Kotokuin Temple

    Kanagawa: Hokokuji Temple & Kotokuin Temple

    Kamakura Hidden Trails Day Hike with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:10　Meet up @ Kamakura Station
    • 10:40　Hokokuji Temple
    • 11:30　Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
    • 12:15　Komachi Street
    • 12:40　Lunch @ Ginza Kagari Kamakura branch (ramen)
    • 14:00　Hasedera Temple
    • 14:50　Kotokuin Temple (Great Buddha of Kamakura)
    • 16:05　Disband @ Kamakura Station

    Title: What's a Private Kamakura Day Tour Like from Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from Europe visiting Japan for the first time. They planned to visit Tokyo and Kamakura before continuing on to Kanazawa, Kyoto, and Osaka. At Hokoku-ji, they seemed deeply impressed by the beautiful bamboo grove. At Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, they listened with great interest to my explanation of the differences between shrines and temples, as well as the history of the Kamakura shogunate. Along Komachi-dori, some of the guests were drawn to the many souvenir shops. At Hase-dera, they enjoyed the large Kannon statue and the beautiful ocean view from the observation deck. At Kotoku-in, they appeared impressed by the enormous Great Buddha of Kamakura. I responded to the guests' wishes throughout the tour, so I believe they were satisfied. 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. Winner of Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.

    Click here for more details: Kamakura Hidden Trails Day Hike with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKamakura～Jomyoji / Keikyu Bus220JPY
    Section 2BusJomyoji / Keikyu Bus～Hachimangu / Keikyu Bus220JPY
    Section 3TrainKamakura～Hase (Kanagawa Prefecture)200JPY
    Section 4TrainHase (Kanagawa Prefecture)～Kamakura200JPY
    Total840JPY

    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

    Request Booking

    Sep 27, 2026
    jonaJ5014ZK
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Seizo was a tremendously fabulous…

    Sep 11, 2026
    M7402TTsharonp
    Higly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing tour with Seizi Kaminto.…

    Sep 8, 2026
    OnAir57127583503
    Amazing Experience with Kamakura Day Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    We had an excellent time with Seizo Kamiuto as our…

    Sep 4, 2026
    B2319ZKjoseo
    Pleasant stroll through HISTORY
    Tripadvisor review: Kawagoe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a great time learning about…

  • Kyoto: Nijo Castle & Yasaka Pagoda

    Kyoto: Nijo Castle & Yasaka Pagoda

    Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    August, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:20 to 10:20 Nijo Castle
    • 10:40 to 11:30 Kinkaku-ji
    • 12:00 to 12:30 Lunch at JR Kyoto Station
    • 12:50 to 13:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 14:00 to 14:50 Sanjusangendo
    • 15:30 to 16:30 Kiyomizu-dera
    • 16:45 to 17:00 Yasaka Pagoda

    What Is an 8-Hour Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group of three visiting from Europe. It was a pleasure to guide this group. I had thought that they might be somewhat formal, but as we talked, all three turned out to be very friendly, and we enjoyed lots of pleasant conversation. When they saw the one thousand statues of Buddha at Sanjusangendo, they were deeply moved by the overwhelming sight. One of the guests remarked that there is no other temple that houses such a magnificent collection of Buddhist statues. I believe they enjoyed today's 8-hour Kyoto tour.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto City Hall～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 2BusNijojo-mae～Kinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3BusKinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus～Kitaoji Bus Terminal (Subway Kitaoji Station) / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4SubwayKitaoji～Kyoto260JPY
    Section 5TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Section 6TrainFushimi Inari～Keihan Shichijo / Princess Line170JPY
    Section 7BusMuseum Sanjusangendo-mae / Kyoto City Bus～Gojozaka / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total1,490JPY

    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
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    Dec 29, 2024
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    Haru was amazing on our tour of Nara. He was…

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

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Mount Rokko & Kobe Harborland

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Mount Rokko & Kobe Harborland

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    August, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:15 Meet @ JR Shin-Kobe Station
    • 11:15 @ Mount Rokko
    • 14:00 @ Kobe Harborland
    • 14:45 Disband @ Kobe Harborland

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Mount Rokko and Kobe Harborland Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Since one of the guests had injured a leg in an accident the previous year, we moved at a slightly slower pace throughout the day. From the top of Mount Rokko you can normally enjoy a sweeping panoramic view, but unfortunately it was a little cloudy that day. Even so, the summit of Mount Rokko is often said to feel two to three degrees cooler than the city center, and the guests commented that it felt "pleasant and refreshing." The cable car seemed somewhat novel for the guests, and they enjoyed the ride. At the very unique souvenir shop nearby, they took great interest and enjoyed window shopping. Some of the guests were also delighted to receive handmade drawstring pouches made by the guide's sister. Because we stayed longer than planned on Mount Rokko, our visit to the next spot, Kobe Harborland, had to be a quick one. The guests looked at the standing statue of Elvis Presley — said to be one of only three in the world — with great interest. As they wished to take a short rest, they stopped at a local Kobe confectionery shop, and we parted ways there. For dinner that evening they were very much looking forward to enjoying Kobe beef at an authentic, long-established local restaurant.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShin-Kobe～Sannomiya210JPY
    Section 2TrainKobe-Sannomiya (Hankyu/Kobe Rapid Transit)～Rokko200JPY
    Section 3OtherRokko Cable Shita～Rokko Sanjo2,300JPY
    Section 4TrainRokkomichi～Kobe (Hyogo Prefecture)200JPY
    Total2,910JPY

    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

    Sep 27, 2026
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