Category: Uncategorized

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Atomic Bomb Dome & JR to Hiroshima Station

    Hiroshima in One Day: Atomic Bomb Dome & JR to Hiroshima Station

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

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00　Meet at hotel
    • 10:15　By bus to Atomic Bomb Dome
    • 10:35　Arrive at Atomic Bomb Dome
    • 　　　　Monument tour, Museum
    • 13:11　After finishing the museum visit, by bus to Nishi-Hiroshima
    • 13:25　Arrive at Nishi-Hiroshima
    • 13:38　From Nishi-Hiroshima Station by JR to Miyajimaguchi Station
    • 14:00　Arrive at Miyajimaguchi Station
    • 14:05　Lunch at Chinchikurin
    • 15:00　Finish lunch
    • 15:25　By ferry to Miyajima
    • 15:35　Arrive at Miyajima
    • 　　　　Shrine, Omotesando
    • 17:40　After finishing Miyajima sightseeing, by ferry to Miyajimaguchi
    • 17:50　Arrive at Miyajimaguchi
    • 18:03　By JR to Hiroshima Station
    • 18:40　Disband at Hiroshima Station

    Can You Do a Private Day Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private day tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima for a group visiting Japan from Europe. Since low tide at Miyajima was expected around noon, the tour began with a visit to the Peace Memorial Park. After explaining the Children's Peace Monument, the guide handed out a personal business card made from recycled paper of the thousand origami cranes, which the guests found very interesting. The guests also listened attentively to the stories of the atomic bomb survivors. Over lunch, the conversation turned lively when talking about fish, as the guests came from a region surrounded by the sea. They were particularly surprised that tuna could be purchased so inexpensively in Japan. They mentioned that they also enjoy eating raw fish, and were amazed at how large Japanese oysters are. The guests were all smokers, so finding a smoking room proved a bit challenging. Having not guided smokers before, the guide was slightly unsure how to accommodate this, but managed to arrange things smoothly.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHiroshima Station～Atomic Bomb Dome240JPY
    Section 2BusMuseum～Nishi-Hiroshima240JPY
    Section 3TrainNishi-Hiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi Station330JPY
    Section 4TrainMiyajimaguchi Station～Hiroshima Station420JPY
    Total1,230JPY

    Select a guide: enter the WordPress Guide post ID or Guide ID in the block settings.

    Request Booking

    Sep 25, 2025
    pedropM3071GD
    Amazing day trip
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    This was an amazing experience to…

    Jul 25, 2025
    ourtravelingt
    Great personalized tour
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our tour was fabulous and our…

    Jul 13, 2025
    katherinepE2305IO
    Hiroshima Tour 4hr Walking
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was an amazing guide. He…

    Jul 7, 2025
    Preston_H
    Great tour guide!
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was an incredible guide who…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 10:00 Meet up @ Janu Tokyo (1-2-2 Azabudai, Minato-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 10:20 Shibuya <Intersection & Hachiko Statue>
    • 3) 11:00 Imperial Palace East Gardens　※From Kitahanebashimon Gate
    • 4) 12:30 Light meal @ Hitohashi (2-27-1 Nezu, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo)
    • 5) 13:50 Ueno (walking section from Yushima Station to Naka-okachimachi Station)
    • 6) 14:10 Disband @ Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line Naka-okachimachi Station ticket gate

    Title: What Is a Private Walking Tour of Tokyo's Nezu and Yanaka Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Their advance message had indicated no particular requests. The weather forecast the previous day had predicted rising temperatures and humidity, and at our meeting the guests mentioned that they had already visited the Mount Fuji area, Nikko, and Tsukiji, so I suggested the Nezu and Yanaka area, which they accepted. For convenience, they agreed to purchase a Tokyo Free Ticket (1,600 yen for adults), and we began the tour. After introducing the Shibuya Crossing and the Hachiko statue, we headed to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. On the train, the guests shared stories about their life and their approach to staying healthy, showing remarkable energy and vitality while still being actively engaged in work. They also shared their impressions of the various places they had visited in Japan and spoke of how moved they were by the kindness and hospitality of the people. On the way toward the Kitahanebashimon Gate of the Imperial Palace, we touched on the special exhibition "Hilma af Klint" at the National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo, and I could tell they had a deep appreciation for art. In the East Gardens, they showed great interest in the early-summer flowers and plants (such as Japanese dogwood, deutzia, floating heart, iris, and satsuki azalea), which reminded me of the diversity of Japan's nature. As forecast, the temperature and humidity rose, so once we arrived in Nezu we took a break. Since they wished to have Japanese food, I guided them to a Japanese restaurant. The guests ordered a mixed fry set meal (1,000 yen) and were surprised by its deliciousness, the quick service, and the low price. They had already reserved an organic restaurant in Meguro for that evening and, since they were heading to Kyoto the next day, they wanted to return to the hotel to finish packing beforehand. After sending them directions back to the hotel by email and confirming them, we left the restaurant, and I guided them to Naka-okachimachi Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, where we parted with smiles at the ticket gate.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Hibiya Line Kamiyacho Station～Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line Ebisu Station600JPY
    Section 2TrainJR Yamanote Line Ebisu Station～JR Yamanote Line Shibuya Station150JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro Hanzomon Line Shibuya Station～Tokyo Metro Tozai Line Takebashi Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Otemachi Station～Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Nezu Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Nezu Station～Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Yushima Station0JPY
    Total750JPY

    Tour Report by Tachi

    Hi! I’m a local guide in Tokyo and have been working as a licensed tour guide for almost 10 years. I love helping guests discover the “real Japan” beyond the guidebooks. I enjoy showing guests both famous sights and places that many tourists miss. My tours are based on your interests and can include not only famous sightseeing spots, but also local neighborhoods, culture, history, and everyday life in Japan. I also help guests enjoy Japanese cultural activities and make communication easier. If you’d like vegan or gluten-free meals, let me help you find suitable restaurants in Tokyo. If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, please feel free to let me know in advance. I look forward to showing you around Tokyo!

    Request Booking

    Jun 19, 2026
    Daniel_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 would do again!
    Our guide, Tachi was incredibly accommodating, friendly, and…

    May 24, 2026
    Meander63637687943
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Japanese Garden Lover’s Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour guide Tachi is the best!
    A most enjoyable and…

    May 19, 2026
    Jai_K
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    I would definitely…
    I would definitely recommend this tour. Our guide Tachi…

    May 5, 2026
    Gary33556
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour of the highlights of Tokyo
    Tachi was our guide. What…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Gotokuji Temple & Kichijoji and Inokashira Park

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Gotokuji Temple & Kichijoji and Inokashira Park

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • （The prepared itinerary was changed on the day at the guest's request）
    • 11:00 Pick up at Sun Palace Taishido
    • 11:30 Gotokuji Temple
    • 12:30 Purchase gluten-free bread at Niigata Rice Flour Bread Workshop najirane
    • 13:30 Kichijoji and Inokashira Park
    • 15:00 Farewell at Shinjuku

    Title: What's a Private Tokyo Tour Focused on Local Neighborhoods Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I met the guests from Europe at their private accommodation and started the tour. The accommodation in Sangenjaya was in a very local, down-to-earth neighborhood lined with everyday shops, and I felt it was a great location for staying at a private residence. The guests shared that hotels like major chains feel the same whether you are in Tokyo, New York, or Singapore, and that they wanted to experience the atmosphere unique to each destination. They had also booked private accommodation for their next stop in Kyoto. On the day itself, there was a last-minute request to change the itinerary we had shared, in favor of places where they could feel the everyday life of local people rather than the usual spots visited by international tourists. They especially enjoyed Kichijoji and Inokashira Park. (The guests were not particularly inclined to take photos, so the guest image provided is of one of the guests.) [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: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSangenjaya～Miyanosaka160JPY
    Section 2TrainYamashita～Shimotakaido160JPY
    Section 3TrainEifukucho～Kichijoji188JPY
    Section 4TrainKichijoji～Shinjuku230JPY
    Total738JPY

    Tour Report by Masa

    Welcome to Japan. I hope you are going to enjoy your stay.

    Who am I?
    I am a Licensed Guide Interpreter at an age of 61.
    I got an early retirement from 36 yrs of the employment in a Japanese financial sector.
    I hope I can attend to you with the Japanese politeness, hospitality and smile.

    What can I be expected?
    I would like to introduce the photogenic sites, the indigenous experiences
    and good Japanese local food around Tokyo, Hakone/Mt Fuji.
    I might be able to show you the features of shrine and temple with a religious manner if you’d like.
    As a matter of fact, I don’t have a specific religion to believe, though.
    I love Japan and that’s why I started a new career as a guide.

    What do I love?
    Most of all, my family. I have a wife 56 yrs old, a son 28 yrs old and a daughter 25 yrs old.
    I like eating raw fish and sushi, buckwheat noodles and curry rice.

    How do I spend my spear time?
    I run for 5 km in the morning listening to my favorite music.
    I might have a chance to go to a studio program in the fitness club nearby once a week.

    I look forward to meeting you soon.
    Thank you.

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    Sandra_U
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Individualized Tour!
    Our tour guide, Masa, was wonderful. The tour…

    Apr 3, 2026
    Celal_S
    Viator review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour even…
    We had a great tour even…

    Mar 30, 2026
    Johanna H
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6 hour Guided Tour of Tokyo
    We booked the 6…

    Mar 26, 2026
    Chica717
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing private tour with Masa!
    We had the absolute pleasure of spending…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00　Meet up @ Hotel 1899 Tokyo
    • 2. 10:20　@ Ginza (4-chome Intersection)
    • 3. 11:00　@ Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge)
    • 4. 11:45　@ Tokyo Station (Station Plaza, Marunouchi Side Station Building)
    • 5.12:30　Lunch @ Tsukiji Market
    • 6. 13:30　@ Asakusa (Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, Sumida Park)
    • 7. 15:00　@ Yanaka Shopping Street
    • 8. 15:30　@ Nezu Shrine
    • 9. 16:30　@ Shibuya
    • 10.16:50　Dismissal @ Shibuya Station

    What Is a Private Tokyo Sightseeing Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. One of the guests had grown up in North America and was fluent in several languages, and was enthusiastically studying Japanese, with plans to meet an online Japanese-language instructor (a Japanese resident) during this trip. They carried a well-used, self-made list of Japanese words and expressions, and throughout the day asked many questions about Japanese phrasing and wrote in additional notes. After sightseeing in Tokyo, they planned to visit Kyoto and Osaka, and also to enjoy walking along old routes such as the Nakasendo before visiting Kanazawa. They also mentioned that they would be sharing the Japan-related information gathered today, including tips on Tokyo transportation, with friends who would arrive in Japan and join them later. The guests took many photos everywhere we went, and at their request they also took a photo together with me as their guide. However, out of privacy concerns, they asked that any social media posts not show identifiable faces. I was therefore refraining from taking photos on my side, but the guests suggested taking a shot from behind, and posed for me in front of the Nijubashi Bridge at the Imperial Palace. For lunch, we enjoyed nigiri sushi at counter seats at a sushi restaurant in the Tsukiji Market area we visited. The guests were clearly accustomed to eating sushi, but commented that it was the most delicious sushi they had ever had. At Sensoji Temple and Asakusa Shrine, they experienced drawing omikuji fortunes (both drew "kyo," bad luck), the temizuya purification fountain, and worship. Afterward, having also visited Nezu Shrine, they commented that they preferred Nezu Shrine. Overall, it was a tour that conveyed the guests' deep enthusiasm for Japan.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassToei Mita Line　Onarimon Station～Tokyo Metro　Hibiya Line　Ginza Station900JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro　Yurakucho Line　Ginza-itchome Station～Sakuradamon Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTokyo Metro　Marunouchi Line　Tokyo Station～Hibiya Line　Tsukiji Market Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassToei Asakusa Line　Higashi-ginza Station～Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassTokyo Metro　Ginza Line　Asakusa Station～Kanda Station0JPY
    Section 6TrainJR Yamanote Line　Kanda Station～Nippori Station170JPY
    Section 7Free PassTokyo Metro　Chiyoda Line　Nezu Station～Ginza Line　Shibuya Station0JPY
    Total1,070JPY

    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!…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Shinjuku Gyoen

    Tokyo in One Day: Meiji Shrine & Shinjuku Gyoen

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:55　Meet up @ Hotel
    • 09:10　Shibuya Scramble Crossing・Hachiko
    • 09:30　Meiji Shrine
    • 11:00　Imperial Palace
    • 11:50　Lunch @ Numazu Uogashi Sushi (Marunouchi Building)
    • 13:10　Senso-ji Temple
    • 14:30　Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 15:40　Disband @ Hotel

    What Can You See on a Private Full-Day Tokyo Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe, one of whom had visited Japan several times before, while the other was visiting Japan for the first time. After sightseeing in Tokyo, they planned to visit Nikko, Hakone, Hida-Takayama, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Osaka. At Meiji Shrine, they seemed impressed by the quiet and solemn atmosphere, which contrasted greatly with Shibuya. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with great interest to the historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo Shogunate. At Sensoji Temple, they were fascinated by explanations about the differences between temples and shrines. At Shinjuku Gyoen, they seemed impressed by the beauty of the Japanese garden and the rose garden. Since I responded to the guests' wishes as requested, I believe they were satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShibuya～Harajuku150JPY
    Section 2SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Nijubashimae700JPY
    Section 3TrainTokyo～Ueno170JPY
    Section 4SubwayUeno～Asakusa0JPY
    Section 5SubwayAsakusa～Shinjuku-gyoenmae0JPY
    Section 6SubwayShinjuku-gyoenmae～Shibuya0JPY
    Total1,020JPY

    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

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

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

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

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

  • Kanagawa in One Day: Hakone Shrine & Narukawa Art Museum

    Kanagawa in One Day: Hakone Shrine & Narukawa Art Museum

    Hakone Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel (Rakuten Stay Fujimi Terrace Hakone Ashinoko)
    • 9:20 Hakone Shrine
    • 11:00 Owakudani
    • 12:40 Motohakone Port
    • 13:00~14:00 Lunch
    • 14:00 Narukawa Art Museum
    • 15:00 Hotel

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Hakone Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Lake Ashi, Owakudani, and Hakone Shrine The guests were a group visiting from North America. Pickup was scheduled at the hotel entrance at 9:00 a.m., but everyone was already down by Lake Ashi behind the hotel, so they waved from the hotel entrance and we joined up right away. We walked to Hakone Shrine, and the guests seemed soothed by its history of more than a thousand years and by the rich natural surroundings. Next, we visited Owakudani via boat and ropeway. Even with strong winds that nearly blew off their hats, they enjoyed buying the famous black eggs. After that, we returned to Moto-Hakone, and following lunchtime we appreciated art at the Narukawa Art Museum before returning to the hotel. The weather was fine, and the guests seemed satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassMotohakone Port～Motohakone Port4,000JPY
    Total4,000JPY

    Tour Report by SHO

    In February 2017, I registered with Kanagawa prefecture as a National Interpreter Guide in English. Since then, I have guided mainly in Tokyo and Kamakura and Hakone in Kanagawa Prefecture, except during the corona virus epidemic. In addition, in February 2022, I became a Hakone Adventure Travel Guide certified by the Hakone DMO. I am especially good at walking and hiking tours. Here are my recommendations for Tokyo and Hakone.

    Tokyo – Imperial Palace
    The Imperial Palace is formally known as the Edo castle, the stronghold of the Tokugawa Shogunate. This place has been the residence of emperor of Japan since after the Meiji Restoration in 1868. The palace with a compound of 1.15 million square metere consists of the main palace where ceremonies and functions are held, the resindence of the Emperor and Empress, and the East Garden containing the ruins of Tensyukaku Donjon. The Chowadn Hall, located in the main Imperial Palace, is noted for the New Year’s visit by the general public to the Imperial Palace.

    Tokyo – Asakusa
    Asakusa is a famous sightseeing spot in Tokyo, which is reminiscent of the Edo period. This district has been flourishing as a temple town of Senso-ji, the oldest and the largest temple in Tokyo, Kaminarimon, or “Thunder Gate,” the outer gate of the temple is very famous as a landmark of Asakusa for its huge red lantern. Both domestinc and foreign tourists flock to thie venerable temple and the shopping arcade called “Nakamise” in the compound, the best place to buy traditional Japanese souvenirs in Tokyo.

    Hakone – Owakudani Valley
    One of the most popular sightseeing spots in Hakone. There are exploded craters, which were formed by the last phreatic eruption of Hakone Volcano about 3,000 years ago, and activer sulfur and hot stream vents. White smoke envelops the desolate ground to this day, and you can feel the intensity of a active volcano. This place is also a popular viewing spot for Mt. Fuji.

    Hakone – Jinja Shrine
    Hakone Jinja Shrine is famous for its Shinto shrine archway of Peace, which was founded in its current location in 757 based on a revelation of the priest Mangan. Manga was famous priest who trained in strict ascetic practices and pacified the nen-headed dragon that lived at the bootm of Lake Ashi, and history is still handed down to people today.

    Hakone – Check Point
    Tokugawa shogun placed 53 sekisy (facility of inspection) on major roads across the nation to defend Edo (current Tokyo). Hakone Sekisho was one of the largest and was thought to be important among them. Hakone Sekisyo was placed on the current location in 1619, during an early period of Edo Era. One of the main roles of sekisho was to control “incoming guns and outgoing women”, which means to prevent wapons from being brought into Edo and wives and children of feudal lords from fleeing from Edo. However, Hakone Sekisho did not inspect “incoming guns” andseverely inspected “outgoing women”. Sekisho which operatef for about 260 years furing Edo Era, was dissoloved in the next years of 1868, when government changed.

    Request Booking

    May 21, 2025
    aileenhs1739
    Great day!
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great way to see Mt Fuji with low stress!…

    Apr 5, 2025
    aradhnaa
    Perfect day
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sho was absolutely wonderful. He arrived early at our…

    Nov 9, 2024
    jennifergW1707MI
    Great way to see all the beauty Hakone had to offer
    Tripadvisor review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide…

  • Hyogo in One Day: Egret Himeji Rooftop & Nadagiku Sake Brewery

    Hyogo in One Day: Egret Himeji Rooftop & Nadagiku Sake Brewery

    Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet @ JR Himeji Station
    • 11:15 @ Egret Himeji Rooftop
    • 11:30 @ Kokoen Garden
    • 12:15 @ Himeji Castle
    • 14:30 @ Ekisoba (light meal)
    • 15:00 @ Sosha Shrine
    • 15:45 @ Nadagiku Sake Brewery
    • 16:15 Disband @ JR Himeji Station

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Himeji Castle Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe, and everything went smoothly. They seemed very satisfied with the full view of the castle from the rooftop of Egret Himeji. Some of the guests appeared very interested in plants and enthusiastically photographed many of them at Kokoen Garden. At Himeji Castle they also toured with great interest and asked me many questions. At Sangokubori, they were delighted to see a white heron — the origin of Himeji Castle's nickname "White Egret Castle" — fly in on two separate occasions during our visit. (I told the guests that since seeing one is said to bring a year of happiness, they would now have two years of happiness.) Afterwards, as they were a little hungry, they enjoyed the Himeji specialty "eki soba" (Chinese-style noodles served in Japanese broth) that I recommended near the castle, and they were very satisfied with it. At Sosha Shrine they also experienced offering a prayer. At the final stop, Nadagiku Sake Brewery, they listened attentively to my explanations and enjoyed the tasting as well. Today there were no waiting times and everything proceeded very smoothly, ahead of schedule. With more than 30 minutes remaining, the guests decided to explore the area around the station on their own, and we parted ways. Note) When we took a taxi to Nadagiku Sake Brewery, at the point of payment I received the question, "Do we pay for this cost ourselves?" When I answered "Yes, that is correct," there seemed to be some slight dissatisfaction. As I reported in another case recently, although transportation costs are clearly stated in the confirmation document, I think this still tends to cause some misunderstanding.

    Click here for more details: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    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…

  • Wakayama in Half a Day: Koyasan Station & Stay at Garan

    Wakayama in Half a Day: Koyasan Station & Stay at Garan

    Mt. Koya Sacred Sites Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:24　Meet at Hashimoto Station and accompany to Koyasan Station
    • 11:18　Arrive at Koyasan Station
    • 11:23~11:45　Move to Okunoin-mae by Sannai Bus 610 yen
    • 11:45~12:30　Stay at Restaurant Hachiyo　
    • 12:30~13:52　Stay at Okunoin
    • 13:52~14:00　Move to Senjuinbashi by Sannai Bus 270 yen
    • 14:00~14:15　Stay at Juzuya Shirobei (souvenirs)
    • 14:15~14:25　Stay at Kongobuji (only the entrance)
    • 14:25~15:15　Stay at Garan
    • 15:15~15:40　Sightseeing around Daishi Kyokai
    • 15:43~16:00　Move from Kongobuji to Koyasan Station by Sannai Bus 460 yen
    • 17:00　　Accompany to Hashimoto Station, explain the train back to Namba, and disband.

    What Is a Private Guided Tour of Koyasan Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests have visited Japan several times because one of them is very fond of Japan, but this was their first time in Koyasan, with plans to visit Nara the next day. They seemed to enjoy the cooler climate compared to Osaka and the greenery surrounding the area, and at Okunoin they took many photos of moss-covered five-tiered stone pagodas and similar sights. One of the guests clearly enjoyed photography and kept taking pictures continuously. At Kongobuji, they may have felt the admission fee was high, so they only looked around the entrance and did not go in, which left us a little extra time. We toured the temple complex, and when they took a peek at the Konpon Daito pagoda and liked it, they went inside. After explaining up to the Chumon gate and heading out, we passed in front of the Reihokan museum, and viewed the bright red autumn leaves, the Pokemon manhole cover in front of the Daishi Kyokai, and the color-changing mandala at the Daishi Kyokai. As it was just about time for the bus to arrive, we boarded from Kongobuji and returned to Koyasan Station, where we enjoyed the view from the second floor and looked at a photo book. We then moved by train to Hashimoto Station and parted ways. The guests seemed to be quietly enjoying the temple visits together.

    Click here for more details: Mt. Koya Sacred Sites Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKoyasan Station～Okunoin-mae610JPY
    Section 2BusOkunoin-mae～Senjuinbashi270JPY
    Section 3BusKongobuji～Koyasan Station460JPY
    Total1,340JPY

    Tour Report by Yuki

    Hi! I’m an official English guide in Wakayama prefecture. I’m also a national guide as well. I’d like to expand my guide area to help tourists.
    The town of Osaka offers a different atmosphere than Tokyo. I like both exciting Osaka and nature-filled Wakayama Prefecture.
    If you stay in Osaka for 3 days, you can go to Koyasan for one day, or even for a day trip, so I recommend sightseeing at Koyasan.
    If you are tired of the hustle and bustle of the big city, the nature of Koyasan will relax you.
    I will introduce you to the unique culture, history and must-see sights.

    Request Booking

    Jun 23, 2026
    Shelley_E
    Viator review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    There is much to do in…
    There is much to…

    May 28, 2026
    Duncan_R
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Great Tour of Kyoto
    The tour was both very informative and…

    May 28, 2026
    ignaciosilenzi
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Koyasan with Miyuki
    Miyuki was…

    May 23, 2026
    189mirjamf
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred 6hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Grandioser Einblick in eine fremde Kultur
    Sehr nette und…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Ginza area from Higashi-Ginza & Tokyo Tower

    Tokyo in One Day: Ginza area from Higashi-Ginza & Tokyo Tower

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 11:00 Stroll around the Ginza area from Higashi-Ginza
    • 12:30 Lunch at Ginza SIX
    • 13:30 Imperial Palace / Nijubashi Bridge
    • 14:40 Tokyo Tower
    • 15:50 Tour ends at Tokyo Tower

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Accessible Tokyo Day Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report Body: The guests had informed us in advance that a wheelchair would be used and that there were some dietary restrictions, so I planned a route with terrain that was as flat as possible, exploring the Ginza area. At Ginza Six we enjoyed an art exhibition that happened to be on display, and I then suggested the Imperial Palace and Nijubashi Bridge, and at the guests' request we added Tokyo Tower. The trip from Haneda to Ginza went smoothly with staff assistance at the stations, and in Ginza we strolled around mainly with a member of the group pushing the wheelchair. One of the guests was not entirely unable to walk and was able to stand up and move independently when using the restroom or getting into a taxi. I kept the movement within a manageable range so as not to be too tiring. Along the way I explained the differences between temples and shrines and the influence each has had on Japanese culture, which the guests seemed to appreciate. It was a hot and humid day, but even when I offered to take a turn pushing the wheelchair, one of the guests insisted that caring for the group was their own role and attended to it throughout, which left a strong impression on me. Finally we headed to Tokyo Tower, and although the sky was cloudy, Mount Fuji was faintly visible in the distance, which delighted the guests. Since they planned to return directly from Tokyo Tower to their Hotel by taxi, 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

    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…

    May 27, 2026
    jackie m
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Our guide was really interesting and had…

    Apr 9, 2026
    Lindsey_W
    Viator review: Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Atsushi, was…
    Our guide, Atsushi, was great! He met…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:20 Meet at Kyoto Station　9:44 JR Saga-Arashiyama Station　10:00 Board Kyoto Bus from Nonomiya Bus Stop　10:20 Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple　　11:30 Gio-ji Temple　　12:00 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove　12:30 Short Break　13:00 Tenryu-ji Temple　13:50 Shopping at Bamboo Craft Shop　14:10 Kimono Forest　14:50 Nishiki Market　15:20 Tour Ends

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Arashiyama and Sagano in Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. They walked well without stopping, from Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple through the bamboo grove village to the Randen Keifuku station. They had a regional accent that was at times a little difficult to catch. What surprised me today was how extremely crowded the Kyoto Bus was that we boarded from Nonomiya — it was packed entirely with international visitors. It was so full that people waiting at bus stops along the way were unable to get on. About a year ago I used this same bus, and back then everyone could comfortably find a seat. Moreover, we three were the only ones who got off at "Toriimoto" to head to Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple, while the other international visitors seemed to ride on toward Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple. In the past, many international visitors used taxis for this route, but everyone seems to have done their research well, as the bus was already full by the time it reached the Nonomiya stop. I really felt the information-gathering ability of international tourists and the influence of social media. During the Sagano walk, I also saw many school-trip students who had come off tour buses, which showed just how popular this area has become. Going forward, sightseeing in this area may require careful consideration, including the timing of visits. The photo was taken in the bamboo grove village of Arashiyama.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Saga-Arashiyama240JPY
    Section 2BusNonomiya～Toriimoto230JPY
    Section 3TrainRanden Arashiyama～Shijo-Omiya250JPY
    Section 4TrainOmiya～Karasuma170JPY
    Total890JPY

    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

    Jul 24, 2026
    Trail65429092687
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Tour
    Kazua Sumi is a very accomplished guide.He has deep…

    Jul 23, 2026
    489caelinp
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Guided Tour
    My friend and I had a great experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    margaretsM7923ON
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Great way to see Kyoto
    Wonderful tour and exceptional guide.

    Jul 9, 2026
    Sandra_B
    Kazuo was great and…
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kazuo was great and provided…