Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 08:40 Meet up@Hotel〈Kayabacho Hatchobori Ekimae〉
    • 2. 08:45 Travel∶Subway
    • 3. 09:20 Stay@Meiji Shrine
    • 4. 10:30 Travel∶Subway
    • 5. 10:45 Stay@Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 6. 11:10 Travel∶Subway
    • 7. 11:45 Stay@Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
    • 8. 12:10 Lunch@Aoi-Marushin
    • 9. 12:40 Stay@Senso-ji Temple
    • 10. 13:15 Travel∶Subway
    • 11. 13:50 Disband@Ueno Ameyoko Shopping Street

    What Is a 4-Hour Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Covering Meiji Shrine, Shibuya, Asakusa, and Ameyoko The hotel designated as the meeting point appeared to have been specified as a landmark rather than as the guests' accommodation. Since there was another hotel of the same chain near Hatchobori Station, I was a little worried about whether I had the right location, but the guests arrived earlier than the scheduled time. For a 4-hour tour there were many requested spots, so I was unsure how best to guide them, but due to the bad weather I decided to leave out Shinjuku Gyoen. After guiding them through Meiji Shrine and the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, they asked me to recommend a shop where they could buy a secondhand handbag, so I decided to take them to Ameyoko after showing them Asakusa. In Asakusa, they suddenly asked to have lunch, so we took a break before visiting Sensoji Temple. As I mentioned in a separate email, I feel there were some shortcomings in how I handled this situation, and I have reflected on it. After guiding them through Asakusa, I took them to Nakaokachimachi Station and we parted ways at Ameyoko. As I also mentioned in a separate email, it took some time to explain how to use the subway.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassKayabacho Station～Meiji-jingumae Station700JPY
    Section 2Free PassMeiji-jingumae Station～Shibuya Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassShibuya Station～Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassAsakusa Station～Naka-okachimachi Station0JPY
    Total700JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

    Hi. My name is Masafumi Miyazaki. Please call me “Sam”. I am a government-licensed guide.
    I was born in Tokyo and was raised in the suburbs of Tokyo called Tama area. When I was in university, I majored in western dramas, so I am good at playing like an actor.
    I like reading, listening to the music, and walking. I belong to several walking clubs, and sometimes I guide the members around Tokyo.
    One of my strengths as a guide is that I know well about kombu, Japanese kelps. In December every year, I work at a traditional kombu shop in Tsukiji Fish Market. At that shop, I learned a lot of things related to kombu or other ingredients for washoku. I can explain the different characteristics of them to you.
    Also, I am familiar with Japanese flowers and plants. If you stroll around a Japanese garden with me, I am sure you will be able to enjoy beautiful flowers and unique plants in every season.
    I look forward to meeting you. Thank you.

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    Jul 21, 2026
    G848SWmaribelm
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
    The tour experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Cezary P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour of Tokyo!
    Sam, was outstanding! Showed…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Michael_C
    Tokyo tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a wonderful guide -…

    Jun 18, 2026
    David_W
    Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Fish Market Tour
    Great tour. Got to see…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Hamarikyu & Tokyo Station Midori no Madoguchi

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Hamarikyu & Tokyo Station Midori no Madoguchi

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hotel
    • 10:20 Hamarikyu
    • 11:50 Tsukiji Market
    • 12:30 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 13:40 Tokyo Station Midori no Madoguchi
    • 14:00 Dismissal

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Hamarikyu and the Imperial Palace East Gardens The guests were a very friendly and polite group visiting from North America. On the morning of the tour, I received a message asking whether the schedule could be extended by one day, and since the rain was heavy and the temperature had dropped by ten degrees compared to the previous day, I was happy to accommodate the request. At Hamarikyu Gardens, they were delighted by the magnificent greenery of the trees. At Nakamaru Park within the Imperial Palace East Gardens, they were captivated by the beauty of the Japanese garden. Finally, I assisted them at the JR ticket office at Tokyo Station with picking up the passes they had reserved abroad for traveling around the country. This turned out to be quite complicated, and they were very grateful, showing generous kindness, and the tour concluded successfully.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOtemachi～Tokyo178JPY
    Total178JPY

    Tour Report by Kris

    My name is Kris,
    Before becoming a tour guide, I worked for a major steelmaking company as an engineer for many years. During my career, I lived and worked in both Germany and the United States for a total of five years. These experiences helped me understand different cultures and ways of thinking, which now helps me connect easily with guests from around the world.

    After retirement, I chose a second career as a tour guide because I truly enjoy meeting people from different countries and sharing Japanese culture, history, and daily life. I have been working as a guide for more than nine years and continue to enjoy every tour.

    I currently live in Tokyo, but I was born and raised in Kobe, near Osaka, and my family roots are in Kyoto. As a result, I have extensive knowledge not only of Tokyo but also of Kyoto, Osaka, and many other parts of Japan. I enjoy introducing both famous landmarks and hidden local gems that many visitors might otherwise miss.

    I am energetic, friendly, and very sociable. I always try to create tours that are relaxed, flexible, and tailored to my guests’ interests.

    Travel is one of my greatest passions, especially visiting hot spring resorts. I have visited more than 80 onsen destinations throughout Japan, giving me a deep appreciation of Japanese culture and regional traditions.

    Whether you are visiting Japan for the first time or returning for another adventure, I would be delighted to help you discover the real Japan from a local perspective.

    I look forward to meeting you and helping you create wonderful memories in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and beyond.

    See you in Japan!

    Kris

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    May 10, 2026
    Matt_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful Introduction to Tokyo
    We were so lucky to have Kris-San…

    Apr 29, 2026
    Rebecca_M
    Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour
    We had such a wonderful…

    Apr 21, 2026
    jacquir581
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We love Kris
    Kris was awesome! He was very flexible when our…

    Apr 2, 2026
    Frank_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A great day in Tokyo
    Great tour with an excellent guide, Kris.…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Ginkaku-ji Temple & Kyoto Imperial Palace

    Kyoto in One Day: Ginkaku-ji Temple & Kyoto Imperial Palace

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:30 Meet @The Chapter Kyoto
    • 09:00 ~ Visit Ginkaku-ji Temple
    • 09:45~ Stroll along the Philosopher's Path—Visit Honen-in Temple, Shinnyodo Temple, Konkaikomyoji Temple
    • 12:00~ Visit Shimogamo Shrine
    • 13:00~ Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 14: 00 Disband @Nishiki Market

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Walking Tour of Ginkaku-ji and the Higashiyama Area Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Some of the guests had visited Japan and Kyoto several times before, while others were experiencing Kyoto for the first time. They had arrived in Kyoto from Tokyo two days earlier, and the previous day they had enjoyed sampling food at Nishiki Market. Since they planned to visit Arashiyama the following day, we chose an itinerary focusing on the eastern and northern areas of the city, where there tend to be fewer crowds. Ginkaku-ji was quiet in the early morning, the fresh green maple leaves were vivid, and under a wonderfully clear, crisp blue sky, the group thoroughly enjoyed the walk from Ginkaku-ji to Konkai-Komyo-ji temple. One of the guests was interested in the Japanese language and asked many questions about word usage and expressions. All of the guests had a strong interest in food, and we took two sweets breaks along the way to savor the flavors of Kyoto.

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

    Tour Report by Shoji

    My name is Shoji and I’m a tour guide in Kyoto, an ancient capital of Japan for more than one thousand years until the mid 19th century.
    I have been doing this work since 2019 covering not only Kyoto but also its surrounding areas like Nara , Osaka and Shiga.
    I am very much interested in Japanese history, culture and traditional arts.
    Kyoto and the Kansai region are rich with many heritage sites of historical and cultural features.
    I am sure that I can provide the guests with good insight and help them appreciate the charms of our wonderful city.

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    May 23, 2026
    Amber_D
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great walking tour in Kyoto!
    Shoji was a great guide around Kyoto.…

    Jun 25, 2025
    Safari35155142765
    Peaceful and perfect temple guided tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Brilliant private guided tour of Kyoto…

    Jun 22, 2025
    Global136391
    Shoji Ogawa Made Kyoto Come Alive!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    If you’re ever in Kyoto, you…

    Jun 9, 2025
    Amy_R
    Wonderful Nara tour
    Viator review: Private Nara Tour with Government Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Kyoto Departure)
    We had such a wonderful…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Gion & Arashiyama

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Gion & Arashiyama

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel meet
    • 9:30 Gion
    • 11:00 Nijo Castle
    • 12:50 Arashiyama
    • 13:10 Tour ends in front of Tenryu-ji Temple

    What's a Private Day Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Gion, Nijo Castle, and Arashiyama The guests were visiting from Oceania. Since they had specified the places they wished to see at the time of booking, it was easy to plan the route, though the travel between locations took some time. We were blessed with good weather, and at Tatsumi Bridge in Gion we came across couples having their wedding photos taken. The guests were delighted to have their pictures taken with three of the newlywed groups. We went over the scheduled time, but I did not stop them. On the way to Sanjo Station, at an antique shop they were shown some old Hina dolls, and they were very moved by this as well. After guiding them through Nijo Castle, I took them to Arashiyama, gave an overview, had them ride the rickshaw they had wished for, and concluded the tour there. I explained to them how to return to their hotel.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKyoto Station～Gion230JPY
    Section 2SubwaySanjo～Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Section 3SubwayNijojo-mae～Uzumasa Tenjingawa260JPY
    Section 4TrainRanden Tenjingawa～Randen Arashiyama250JPY
    Total960JPY

    Tour Report by Mizu

    Hello, my name is Mizuho Yoshikawa. Please call me Mizu and my name means rice and water in Japanese.
    I’ve been a tour guide more than 200 times since the spring of 2023 in Kobe, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Wakayama and Kochi. My tour is always original and new, depending on the guest’s preferences, encounters, seasons and weather.
    In Kyoto, one of my tours is to climb Mt. Kurama. It is about 1 hour from the city of Kyoto by train, it is a very quiet and beautiful mountain.
    In Osaka, which is called the kitchen of Japan, I am also in charge of food tour.
    In Nara, in addition to the Great Budda Hall, I guide guests to the temple with a really great view and Japanese wine, sake tasting.
    Every city has a unique charming point.
    The motto of my guiding is ” Ichigo Ichie” Once in a lifetime or seize the day. I learn this concept that the moment will never be the same again through tea ceremonies.
    I like a tea ceremony that is part of the traditional Japanese culture and embodies the spirit of “omotenashi” or hospitality. Through the tea ceremony, we can feel the spirit of “omotenashi” that has been passed down to us from ancient times.
    And I like to travel abroad and domestically, and I have been to 13 overseas countries and most of the prefectures in Japan. Traveling always gives me a new perspective, which is exciting and thrilling. Nowadays, we can learn a lot from the Internet, but traveling teaches us that it is important to have direct experience. When I travel, I feel that my five senses are infinitely expanded, and through my tour, I help all guests to have the same feeling in Japan.
    I was born and raised in Kanagawa Prefecture, which is next to Tokyo Prefecture in eastern Japan. When I was little, I could see Mount Fuji from my backyard. There was also a rice field nearby, and I grew up listening to the croaking of frogs. Listening to the frogs and seeing the mountains made me feel very calm.
    I moved to the city of Kobe, one of the Kansai areas in western Japan, which includes Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and so on. I’m not from the Kansai area of western Japan, but I think that makes me sensitive to the differences between that area and the Kanto area, Tokyo, where I grew up.
    Speaking of Kobe, you might be thinking of Kobe beef. Of course you do. There are also other sake breweries in Nada in Kobe. You can also go from Kobe city to Himeji Castle, also known as the White Egret Castle, which was the first in Japan to be listed as a World Heritage Site in 1993.
    Let’s meet and enjoy Japan together!

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    Jul 27, 2026
    OscarBrisenoJr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Awesome tour of Kyoto
    Seeing the temples and shrines…

    Jul 21, 2026
    MarcL3556
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful and Memorable Tour of Osaka with Mizu…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Ranvt
    Local tour kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    I had a great experience on this local…

    Jun 11, 2026
    MamaL843
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing Kyoto with Mizu
    Mizu-San gave us an AMAZING tour of Kyoto.…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle Park - Castle Tower & Shinsekai

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle Park – Castle Tower & Shinsekai

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel the Lutheran Meeting
    • 9:15~11:00 Osaka Castle Park – Castle Tower
    • 11:30~12:00 Tennoji Park – Keitakuen Garden
    • 12:10~12:30 Shinsekai
    • 12:45 Disperse at Kuromon Market

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Osaka Tour of Osaka Castle and Shinsekai? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Oceania and North America, having toured Tokyo and Kyoto before arriving in Osaka. In Osaka, the guests were eager to visit Osaka Castle, and they took many photos of the magnificent scenery of the castle's outer moat, the stone walls, and the turrets. At the castle keep it was quite crowded, with a line forming for the elevator. The weather was clear at the castle keep, offering superb views of the city of Osaka, Osaka Bay, and the Ikoma mountain range, and the guests enjoyed taking photos. During the historical discussion, Japanese words such as shogun, daimyo, emperor, and ninja came up, but their meanings had been completely misunderstood, so I explained them and helped the guests understand. In Shinsekai, the guests learned about the history of Billiken and enjoyed the experience.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOsaka Castle Park～Tennoji180JPY
    Section 2TrainEbisucho～Nipponbashi190JPY
    Total370JPY

    Tour Report by shige

    Hello, This is Shige. I was born and brought up in Osaka. I have been enjoying working as a tour guide since 2016 after retired from a manufacturing company in which I worked at the overseas department. So I experienced a lot of business with customers in Europe, Asia, Australia, and USA where my three years of living and working at the subsidiary company with my family was the most amazing experience of my life. Well, Japan has a long history including ancient remains, historic buildings and cultures at each period over 2000 years. I hope you will enjoy exploring Japan in this tour. I look forward to seeing you soon.
    Shige.

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    May 23, 2026
    Sarajean_s
    Viator review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful way to get acquainted with Kyoto
    Shige was a…

    May 21, 2026
    828vickeyb
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Shige is a great tour guide for Kyoto
    Shige was an excellent…

    Apr 12, 2026
    Mariana_M
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking Tour with Shige
    Shige was an amazing tour guide and companion…

    Jul 4, 2025
    Marcus_C
    Osaka tour 2025
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful tour around Osaka. Our guide…

  • Otaru Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Otaru Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Otaru Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • Weather sunny　Temperature 16-7℃　　9:30　Pick up at Otaru Pier 3～Cross Otaru Canal～Stroll about 1/3 of Sakaimachi Street～Suitengu Shrine (cherry blossom viewing, hill)～Otaru Park hill (cherry blossom viewing)～Stroll around Temiya Park (former Temiya Railway site)～Sakaimachi Street (lunch)～Stroll along the same street～15:00　See off at Pier 3 (Azamara Pursuite)　All on foot

    What Is a Private Cherry Blossom Tour in Otaru from the Cruise Terminal Like? A Licensed Guide's Report A little before 9:30, the guests arrived at the cruise ship terminal building. The guests came from South America. One of them spoke fluent English, so our conversation went smoothly. We had exchanged emails twice before meeting, and since the guests had requested cherry blossom viewing, the guide had traveled to Otaru the day before to check the blooming conditions and plan the route for the tour. The cherry blossoms they had hoped to see were in full bloom, and they cheered while taking many photos. The weather was also wonderful, and they seemed very satisfied with the views of the townscape and the harbor from the top of the hill.

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

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

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    Feb 7, 2025
    Stay38335184325
    A very frosty day in a very interesting little seaside town
    Tripadvisor review: Otaru 6hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our…

    Dec 27, 2024
    G
    G5102BEannied
    Sapporo, Hokaido Winter Escapade
    Tripadvisor review: Sapporo 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    We had an experienced tour guide…

    Oct 30, 2024
    Clarice W
    A Day of Joy at Otaru Canal, Half-day Walking Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Otaru 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Katsuko-san…

  • Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

    Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour

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

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0930 Meet at Hiroshima Ujina Port
    • 1025 Take the Setouchi Sea Line high-speed boat to Miyajima
    • 1110-1300 Miyajima sightseeing, lunch
    • 1340 Take the World Heritage Route to Peace Park
    • 1430-1630 Tour Peace Park and the Atomic Bomb Museum
    • 1700-1730 Tour Hiroshima Castle
    • 1730 Have the guests take a taxi to Ujina, end of work

    Title: What Is a Private Family Tour of Hiroshima Castle Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan. Everyone seemed very interested in Japan and asked many questions. Among them, the most memorable was a question from one of the guests. While I was guiding the group through Hiroshima Castle, at the exhibit displaying swords and spears, I explained that on the battlefields of that era, the spear was a more effective weapon than the sword against armored samurai. In response, the question was, "Then why is there such an attachment to the sword?" I was momentarily at a loss for words, but once I explained that the sword was effective in close combat and that it was considered the soul of the samurai, they seemed satisfied. It was a nerve-wracking moment.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherMiyajima～Motoyasu River Pier1,100JPY
    Total1,100JPY

    Tour Report by Harry

    Hello everyone.
    I’m excited to have an opportunity to introduce myself to you.
    This is my third year as a tour guide.
    I enjoy chatting with customers while guiding them.
    I mainly guide tours in the western Hiroshima Prefecture area, including Miyajima, Peace Memorial Park, Shukkei-en Garden, Kure, Etajima, and Takehara.
    I also love visiting temples and shrines.
    And I love sake and fresh seafood such as oysters and sashimi.
    As a motorcycle rider, I know some hidden gems in this area.
    I look forward to providing enjoyable tours, so please feel free to join me.

    Request Booking

    Jun 20, 2026
    Todd_C
    Viator review: Hiroshima 6hr Private Guided Tour & Shopping with Concierge
    Harry was very…
    Harry was very informative. We did the…

    Apr 26, 2026
    Glenn_L
    Viator review: Hiroshima 6hr Private Guided Tour & Food Tasting with Concierge
    Moving tour of Hiroshima
    Our guide, Harry, met us…

    Apr 2, 2026
    Roldan_T
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Harry was an great and informative guide.
    Harry was…

    May 10, 2025
    jonathan_R
    Really great tour. …
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Really great tour. Hisashi or…

  • Wakayama in One Day: Lawson Oto & Kamitonda Sanchokukan

    Wakayama in One Day: Lawson Oto & Kamitonda Sanchokukan

    Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage in 1 Day Hike with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30　Meet at Kamitonda Sanchokukan
    • 9:00 　Shopping at Lawson Oto
    • 9:50 　Arrive at Hongu
    • 10:30　By bus to Hiraiwaguchi
    • 10:40　Walk start
    • 11:40　Hongu Taisha
    • 12:00　Oyunohara
    • 12:15　Lunch
    • 13:00　To Shingu
    • 13:50　Hayatama Taisha
    • 14:10　Daimonzaka
    • 14:50　Seiganto-ji
    • 15:10　Nachi Taisha
    • 15:30　Nachi Falls
    • 16:00　By car to Kii-Tanabe
    • 16:50　Photo shoot at Hashigui-iwa
    • 17:40　Kamitonda Sanchokukan

    Title: What Is a Private Kumano Kodo and Nachi Falls Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Since the guests were staying in Ryujin, I arranged the meeting point at the Kamitonda farmers' market. We had planned to buy bento there, but it opened at 9:00 and was not yet open, so I parked the guide's car there and rode with the guests in their rental car. The guests spoke multiple languages, and they conversed fluently in French, Spanish, and English. We took a bus from Hongu to near the Sangenjaya ruins and began walking. It was drizzling at first, but the rain gradually let up. We prayed at Hongu Taisha, had lunch on a bench, and took family photos at Oyunohara. After that, we moved to Shingu and prayed at Hayatama Taisha. Since one of the guests practices Aikido, we viewed an Aikido dojo from the outside, although no one was there. We then moved on to Nachi. We took photos at Daimonzaka and visited Seiganto-ji, Nachi Taisha, and the three-story pagoda. After the rain, the waterfall had a large volume of water and was very impressive. On the way to Tanabe via Route 42, we took a restroom break and photos at Hashigui-iwa. The guests were lively, and one looked after another. One of the guests seemed to enjoy photography and was constantly taking pictures. Since we made a full loop around the peninsula, I imagine it was tiring. The guests had taken a liking to the hot springs in Ryujin, so I believe they were able to relax after the tour.

    Click here for more details: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage in 1 Day Hike with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHongu～Hiraiwaguchi290JPY
    Total290JPY

    Tour Report by Kiyoko

    Hello, my name is Kiyoko. I have been a local English guide since 2016. I have studied the history and folklore at a local guide club and have an experience of guiding guests from various countries. I am good at Takijiri Oji-Takahara Jinja, Hosshinmon Oji-Hongu Taisha and Daimonzaka-Nachi Taisha, Seiganto-ji, Nachi Fall. Besides Kumano, I can guide Koyasan, Okunoin, Kongobu-ji, Danjo Garan, Niutsuhime Jinja and Jison-in. I have been to Koyasan 30-40 times . My aim is sharing a great time with guests while guiding. See you in Kumano or in Koyasan.

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    May 23, 2026
    Cecile_V
    Viator review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip with Government Licensed Guide
    A great and manageable hike with Kiyoko!
    This is…

    Apr 20, 2026
    rosesinthorns
    Tripadvisor review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip with Government Licensed Guide
    The best way to experience the Kumano Kudo in…

    Mar 26, 2026
    22luisandr_sm
    Tripadvisor review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle
    Amazing experience in Kumano kodo
    Kiyoko was amazing. We are…

    Apr 4, 2025
    robrP6297MQ
    Beautiful Tour with detailed Tour Guide!!
    Tripadvisor review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle
    We had a great…

  • 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

    • 10:00 Met at the Hotel lobby. Since there were no prior requests, we discussed the route in the lobby and decided on Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observatory → Sensoji Temple → Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden → Shibuya Crossing → Harajuku Takeshita Street, then headed to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observatory on foot.
    • 10:30-11:35 The Tokyo Metropolitan Government North Observatory was open, but for some reason today the wait time was unusually long at 30 minutes. When I asked how they would like to proceed, they said that since we had come all this way, they would go up, so we went up and I explained the major buildings of Tokyo. At that time, they said, "We are moving to Osaka tomorrow, so please advise us on how to purchase Shinkansen tickets," so we headed to the JR Midori no Madoguchi ticket office at Shinjuku Station.
    • 11:45-11:55 Helped purchase the next day's Shinkansen tickets. After finishing, we headed to Asakusa by subway.
    • 12:35-14:10 Guided them through Nakamise Street and Sensoji Temple. When we finished, they requested lunch as they were hungry, so we had ramen for lunch at "Tanaka Soba" on Kannon Street. They were pleased that it was delicious. After finishing, we moved to Shimbashi on the Ginza Line, then transferred to JR to Hamamatsucho Station, and went to Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden.
    • 14:30-15:15 Guided them through Kyu Shiba Rikyu Garden. After finishing, we moved to Shibuya Station on the Yamanote Line.
    • 15:35-16:00 Guided them through the Shibuya Scramble Crossing. Also introduced Hachiko. After finishing, we went to Harajuku by subway.
    • 16:15-16:45 Toured Takeshita Street, where they purchased souvenirs at the SANRIO shop for a friend's daughter. After finishing, I saw them off to Shinjuku and said goodbye.

    What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, a Japanese Garden, and Shibuya The guests were visitors from North America, and this was their first trip to Japan. They were spending only one day in Tokyo before moving on to Osaka by bullet train the next day, then staying in Kyoto and continuing to Hiroshima, before returning to Tokyo and flying home from Narita. They had just arrived in Japan the previous evening, so as the afternoon went on the effects of jet lag became a little noticeable, but they happily visited Asakusa, a Japanese garden, and the Shibuya scramble crossing as they had requested. The guests mentioned that their work involves very demanding hours, and one of them said, "I just want to relax and spend the time at a leisurely pace." In that sense, today worked out well, as it was the day after a holiday period and Senso-ji Temple, Shiba Rikyu Gardens, Shibuya, and Harajuku were not overly crowded. The one surprise was that we waited in line for a full 30 minutes at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building observation deck, which was a first for me. I felt bad that it happened right at the start, but while we waited, I used the time to share as much information as I could about Osaka, Kyoto, and Hiroshima. When we said goodbye, they told me they had a wonderful time, so I was relieved as we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinjuku～Asakusa700JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Shimbashi0JPY
    Section 3TrainShimbashi～Hamamatsucho150JPY
    Section 4TrainHamamatsucho～Shibuya210JPY
    Section 5SubwayShibuya～Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 6SubwayMeiji-jingumae～Shinjuku0JPY
    Total1,060JPY

    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.

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    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
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    Our guide Minoru Asai was very friendly and knowledgeable about culture,…

    Jun 30, 2025
    liammL2246HL
    Amazing experience
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    Jun 26, 2025
    394milesd
    Excellent guide making an excellent day in Tokyo
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    A perfect day, tailored…

  • Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle & Dotonbori/Kuromon Market

    Osaka in One Day: Osaka Castle & Dotonbori/Kuromon Market

    Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    May, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:45 Intercontinental Osaka pick up
    • 8:45-11:30 Osaka Castle
    • 11:30-12:30 Shitennoji
    • 12:30-12:30 Dotonbori/Kuromon Market
    • 12:30-15:00 Return to hotel

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Osaka Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests emailed to say they were ready and wanted to start early, so we began at 8:45. The guests were traveling together as old friends, and one of them was very familiar with Japan. They were eager to try everything, so we visited Hokoku Shrine, rang the bell at Shitennoji Temple, and poured water over the Fudo statue at Hozenji Yokocho. At Osaka Castle, I took photos of them from various angles. Because we went early, the crowds were more manageable. At Kuromon Market, they enjoyed takoyaki and obanyaki, and took photos of the beautiful seafood. They saw pufferfish lanterns, live swimming pufferfish, and moray eels, and at a shop called "Hokkaido Monogatari" they bought some nostalgic Hokkaido sweets as souvenirs. While walking through Dotonbori, they had already walked quite a lot and were tired. Although they were also interested in the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living, we decided to head back to the hotel. Since Osaka Station and Umeda can be complicated, I saw them all the way to the hotel before we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOsaka～Osaka Castle Park180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 3SubwayShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka～Nipponbashi190JPY
    Section 4SubwayNamba～Umeda240JPY
    Total800JPY

    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.

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    Jun 23, 2026
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    Grandioser Einblick in eine fremde Kultur
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