Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:20 Meet up@fav TOKYO RYOGOKU
    • 2. 09:30 Travel∶Subway
    • 3. 10:00 Stay@Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 4. 12:00 Travel∶Subway
    • 5. 12:25 Stay@Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 6. 12:45 Lunch@OSAKA Kitchen.
    • 7. 13:40 Travel∶Train
    • 8. 14:00 Stay@Meiji Shrine
    • 9. 14:55 Stay@Takeshita Street
    • 10. 15:25 Dismiss@Meiji-jingumae Station

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Tsukiji, Shibuya, and Harajuku Walking Tour in Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a family from South America. Although everyone spoke English, they always conversed in their own language among themselves, so at times it felt difficult to strike up conversation. They seemed interested in Tsukiji, so I guided them there first. One of the guests purchased a kitchen knife, and some of the guests had hearty appetites and enjoyed items such as steamed pork buns and sushi before lunch, so we ended up staying there longer than planned. In Shibuya, I used a restaurant inside Tokyu Plaza for lunch for the first time. Many of the restaurants in Mark City and Shibuya Stream are often crowded, and the ones in Scramble Square tend to be pricey, so I had been looking for other good options, and I found Tokyu Plaza to be a hidden gem. Perhaps because it is on a somewhat higher floor, many restaurants there are relatively empty on weekdays, and I would like to try it again next time. After finishing the tour of Takeshita Street, some of the guests wanted to shop at Nike Harajuku, so we parted ways there.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayRyogoku Station~Tsukijishijo Station220JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji Station~Shibuya Station210JPY
    Section 3TrainShibuya Station~Harajuku Station150JPY
    Total580JPY

    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.

    Sep 29, 2026
    Y9791IZnicks
    Making the most of a rainy day
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Sam was a wonderful…

    Sep 25, 2026
    910lorig
    Best experience for a perfect day in Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Best…

    Sep 15, 2026
    R8612KOjanicea
    Highly recommend 👍
    Tripadvisor review: Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Sam, was amazing!!…

    Sep 1, 2026
    greasygrandpa
    First Day In Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Our tour guide Sam was very knowledgeable…

  • Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage in 1 Day Hike

    Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage in 1 Day Hike

    Tour Itinerary

    • ' 8:20 Meet at Kii-Tanabe Station (buy lunch)
    • 8:37- 10:12 Bus Kii-Tanabe→Hongu Taisha-mae
    • 10:30- 10:45 Bus Hongu Taisha-mae→Hosshinmon-oji
    • 10:50- 13:40 Walk・Lunch Hosshinmon-oji→Oyunohara
    • 13:42: 14:05 Bus Hongu Taisha-mae→Nonaka Ippon-sugi
    • 14:05- 15:55 Walk Nonaka Ippon-sugi bus stop→Nakahechi Museum-mae bus stop
    • 16:10: 17:15 Bus Nakahechi Museum-mae→Kii-Tanabe・Dismissal

    What Is a Private Kumano Kodo Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report While waiting near the station, the guests noticed me first, so we were able to start the tour on an earlier bus than planned. The group was able to walk at a fast pace, so the tour proceeded without much concern about time. They enjoyed the tea fields spread out near the Fushiogami settlement and the expansive distant view of the Kumano River. On this day at Oyunohara, the former site of Hongu Taisha, a commemorative event was held marking the 25th anniversary of the construction of the great torii gate, and we were able to see performances such as taiko drumming. We took the bus to the Nonaka Ippposugi bus stop and visited Nonaka no Shimizu spring and the grove of ippo-sugi cedars. Inside a hollow of one of the ippo-sugi cedars beside the stairs, we discovered a toad. From here we walked in the reverse direction toward Chikatsuyu-oji, but since it was a downhill route from 490 meters to 290 meters above sea level, we reached the bus stop without any concern about time.

    I grew up in the mountain village. I learned many things from my family, especially my grandmother. I can give you many interesting experiences in the wild nature. We eat wild strawberries or “Sukanpo ” the edible grass, fly ferns or cross a suspension bridge.
    I walked all of Kumano Kodo, Koyasan pilgrimage roads and other ancient highways, total length is more than 600km ( 400 miles).
    I want you to show the interesting spots beyond the guide book. Kii mountain range has old history as well as beautiful land scapes. I’ll take you the excellent places you can do Facebook bragging.
    My experiences for guiding foreigners are, town of Koyasan, pilgrimage road to Koyasan, Kumano Kodo Nakahechi, hot springs, Shingu city and Nachi Katsuura town, Kushimoto area, Shirahama area so on.
    I wish to meet you soon!

    May 12, 2025
    andrewgT8079NS
    Wonderful guide and magical scenery and locations.
    Tripadvisor review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip with Government Licensed Guide
    Wonderful, interesting…

    Apr 29, 2025
    farmahel
    A truly magnificent journey through the Kumano Kodo with a wonderfully kind Hira
    Tripadvisor review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip…

    Apr 27, 2025
    Sofia_N
    Had a great time. Guide…
    Viator review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip with Government Licensed Guide
    Had a great time.…

    Mar 23, 2025
    G
    GoPlaces681850
    Wonderful time with a local.
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Hira,…

  • Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 13:20 Meet @ Hotel Okura Kobe
    • 2. 13:40 @ Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden
    • 3. 15:50 @ Minatogawa Shrine
    • 4. 16:30 @ Kobe Harborland
    • 5. 16:50 Disband @ Hotel Okura Kobe

    What Is a Private Kobe Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nunobiki Herb Garden and Harborland Today's guests were visitors from North America. The tour was originally scheduled to start at 11:00, but the day before, the guests contacted the guide and changed the start time to 14:00. However, on the day itself, while the guide was heading to the meeting point by train, the guests contacted the guide again, and the tour started at 13:20. Today we visited the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, Minatogawa Shrine, and Kobe Harborland. It was a hot day, but the guests were delighted with how beautiful the herb garden was. At Minatogawa Shrine, they asked many interesting questions about how to worship at a shrine and about the various deities enshrined there. However, by the time we walked to Harborland, they appeared to be a little tired. The guests had made a reservation in advance at a beef steak restaurant that the guide had recommended. After Harborland, they said they wanted to return to the hotel to shower, change clothes, and then head to the restaurant, so we returned to the hotel afterward and ended the tour. The guests were in good spirits.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Subway[Kobe Municipal Subway Seishin-Yamate Line Shin-Kobe] Station~[Kobe Municipal Subway Seishin-Yamate Line Okurayama] Station120JPY
    Total120JPY

    Hello, my name is Norio Oki, a Government-Certified Tour Guide in Japan.
    I specialize in guiding visitors through the beautiful and historic regions of Himeji and Kobe.

    My expertise includes Japanese history, traditional culture, castles, and sake. I enjoy sharing not only facts, but also the stories and spirit behind each place.

    In Himeji, I offer guided tours of Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden, Shoshazan Engyoji Temple, and Nadagiku Sake Brewery.
    In Kobe, I guide guests through the Nada Sake Breweries area, Mt. Rokko, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, Harborland, Meriken Park, the Kitano District, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, and the lively Motomachi Shopping Street.

    Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local experiences, I will create a personalized tour tailored to your interests.

    If you’re planning to visit Himeji or Kobe, I would be delighted to be your guide.
    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Sep 29, 2026
    X
    X1794ZGstevew
    Kobe 4hr guided tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Norio pickup us up ontime &…

    Sep 17, 2026
    jacquelinecI8863UY
    No rush beautiful walking tour.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a wonderful time. Norio…

    Sep 15, 2026
    niy679
    Kobe day trip
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had an amazing tour with Norio. He…

    Jul 7, 2026
    77guye
    The best way to experience Himeji Castle
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    What a great way to…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Sagano Bamboo Grove

    Kyoto in One Day: Nijo Castle & Sagano Bamboo Grove

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meeting In front of Nijo Castle East Gate
    • 09:00 to 10:00 Nijo Castle
    • 10:30 to 11:45 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 12:15 to 13:15 Nishiki Market
    • 13:45 to 14:30 Okochi Sanso Villa
    • 14:30 to 14:50 Sagano Bamboo Grove
    • 14:50 Dismissal  Sagano Bamboo Grove

    What's a Private Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari and a Bamboo Path Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. It was a trip to Japan celebrating an achievement. They asked quite in-depth questions about Japanese history and culture. My answers were not perfect, but I believe I was able to respond reasonably well. I took them to a new attraction at Fushimi Inari Taisha, the bamboo path. It is not as large as the Sagano bamboo grove, but they were very pleased. They plan to sightsee in Osaka the next day.

    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 !!

    Dec 30, 2024
    shannono1010
    Haru is a Rock Star
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a fantastic guide. He explained…

    Dec 29, 2024
    Ali O
    Amazing!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was amazing on our tour of Nara. He was…

    Dec 4, 2024
    D5658ZEjohnr
    Trip to some of the Kyoto sites on our visit to Japan.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with…

    Dec 3, 2024
    Charlie_Jane00
    Kyoto Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Haru was a well organised and very informative guide. He…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hotel Kyoto Premier Sanjo Kamogawa
    • 9:50 Tenryu-ji Garden ~ Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Walk
    • 11:40 Kinkaku-ji
    • 12:25 Lunch at Togenkyo
    • 13:40 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 14:30 Disband in front of the torii gate at Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • (Due to the extreme heat, you seemed tired, so we finished a little early.)

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji, and Fushimi Inari Today I guided the group visiting from Oceania on a private one-day tour of Kyoto. They had already visited Tokyo, Hakone, and Kanazawa. It was very hot and humid, though it was a relief that the sky was slightly cloudy. None of the sites were particularly crowded today, so it was nice that we could enjoy everything at a relaxed pace. We were able to stroll leisurely through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Kinkaku-ji was surprisingly uncrowded, which made it possible to explore at an easy pace. Since the guests wanted to eat ramen, we went to a nearby ramen restaurant called Togenkyo. We had originally planned to visit the Gion district, but since they had already walked through a geisha district in Kanazawa, we changed our plan to visit Fushimi Inari Taisha instead. It was tough in the heat, but I believe the guests enjoyed the day.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKyoto City Hall~Uzumasa Tenjingawa260JPY
    Section 2TrainRanden Tenjingawa~Arashiyama250JPY
    Section 3TrainArashiyama~Nishioji Sanjo250JPY
    Section 4BusNishioji Sanjo~Kinkakuji-michi230JPY
    Section 5BusKinkakuji-michi~Kitaoji Bus Terminal230JPY
    Section 6SubwayKitaoji~Kyoto260JPY
    Section 7TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Total1,630JPY

    Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

    Jul 25, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Half-day with private guide in Kyoto
    We spent half a day…

    Jul 24, 2026
    J6711TVnancyb
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Family Fun Day in Kyoto with young children
    Kaeko Tanigawa was fantastic at helping us create…

    Jul 13, 2026
    elizabethtW414DU
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Private Tour
    Kaeko was absolutely amazing from start…

    Jul 12, 2026
    johnkE8649IH
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Kyoto Day Tour
    We had a wonderful experience touring Kyoto…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Conrad Tokyo

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Conrad Tokyo

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Conrad Tokyo
    • 9:20 Tsukiji Outer Market, Fish Market, Namiyoke Shrine, Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple
    • 11:10 Ameyoko, Tokudaiji Temple, Statue of Saigo Takamori, Shogitai Grave, Kiyomizu Kannon-do Hall
    • 12:00 Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, Sensoji Temple
    • 13:10 Dismissal @ Shimbashi Station

    What's a Private Tokyo Tour of Tsukiji, Ameyoko, and Asakusa Like? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private Tokyo tour for a group visiting from North America. At a knife shop in Tsukiji, some of the guests purchased two kitchen knives and had their names engraved in katakana, which delighted them. The guests enjoyed tuna, yakitori, strawberry candy, muscat grape candy, and ice cream. At Namiyoke Shrine, one of the guests purchased a goshuin book, and afterward collected goshuin stamps at Tokudaiji Temple in Ameyoko, Kiyomizu Kannondo, and Sensoji Temple (there was no line today). Tsukiji Honganji Temple did not offer goshuin, and there was an explanation in English about why it does not; a regular stamp was provided instead. The guests bought sweets at a confectionery shop in Ameyoko and ningyo-yaki in Asakusa, which they enjoyed after stepping off the main approach. Although it was June, the temperature exceeded 30 degrees from the morning, so I advised everyone to stay well hydrated. The first half went well, but in the latter half one of the guests began to feel quite unwell, so after Asakusa the group decided to return to the hotel. We headed back to Shimbashi, where the tour concluded.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShiodome~Tsukiji Market180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji~Naka-okachimachi180JPY
    Section 3SubwayUeno~Asakusa180JPY
    Section 4SubwayAsakusa~Shimbashi210JPY
    Total750JPY

    Hello!! I’m Takako. Thank you for seeing my page. I’ve been showing guests around Tokyo, Yokohama and Kamakura for over six years. There are various things from historic sites, shrines and temples to cultural spots, good restaurants and anime shops in Japan.
    I love watching sumo wrestling, Japanese traditional sport.
    My favorite place is Tsukiji food market. It’s really exciting and you can enjoy a variety of delicious foods.
    I also like visiting Japanese gardens such as Hama-rikyu Gardens and Rikugien Gardens.
    Please let me know what interests you.
    I would be happy to make a suitable tour for you and help you stay in Japan comfortably.
    Looking forward to meeting you!!

    Sep 30, 2026
    16shelleyb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Great day in Toyko
    Four of us spent an…

    Sep 29, 2026
    982marvf
    Yokohama Experience
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Takako is an outstanding tour guide who knows Yokohama…

    Sep 24, 2026
    marshad422
    A great day of seeing so much and gaining knowledge of the historical and spiritual meaning to the places visited.
    Tripadvisor…

    Sep 18, 2026
    7
    770stefanieg
    Wonderful, personalized tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Takako, our guide…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Namba Yasaka Shrine & Dotonbori

    Osaka in Half a Day: Namba Yasaka Shrine & Dotonbori

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at Hotel Relief Namba
    • 9:30-10:00 Namba Yasaka Shrine
    • 10:00-10:30 Kuromon Market
    • 10:30-13:10 Move to Osaka Castle and stay there
    • 13:30-14:50 Dotonbori
    • Around 14:50 End of the tour

    What's a Private Walking Tour of Osaka Castle and Dotonbori Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests visited Japan and had a close and friendly relationship. One of them had taught themselves Japanese through manga and spoke it very well. Using Japanese as well, I explained uniquely Japanese items such as the naginata and the kusarigama. They seemed to like Sanada Yukimura and bought a Sanada T-shirt as a souvenir. Perhaps not wanting to spend too much money, they chose to walk rather than take the castle grounds bus, and also walked from the hotel through Doguyasuji all the way to Nippombashi. As a result, after finishing our visit to Osaka Castle, they took breaks here and there and enjoyed ice cream, so by the time we reached Dotonbori the tour time had already passed. I found them a ramen shop that did not use pork-based soup, and we parted ways at Sennichimae.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNipponbashi~Tanimachi 4-chome190JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Namba240JPY
    Total430JPY

    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.

    Aug 17, 2026
    yasmintX6792FN
    Great trip
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred Sites Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    It was a great time and very interesting…

    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…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Hotel Meet
    • 10:00 Miyajima
    • 13:00 Lunch
    • 14:00 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 17:00 Atomic Bomb Dome, dismissal

    What Is a Private Tour of Miyajima and Hiroshima Peace Park Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Tour date: June 2025 Places visited: Miyajima, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Weather: Sunny Experiences: Itsukushima Shrine, worship etiquette : Daisho-in Temple, Kaidan-meguri (the dark pilgrimage path) : Stroll along Maple Road : Moment of silent prayer at the Peace Memorial Park Details: Today, a [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private tour for the group visiting from Oceania. It was a family group, and the tour proceeded in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere throughout. Their home country has a history of once having been under Japanese administration, and I was surprised to learn that even today, words derived from Japanese are used in everyday conversation alongside English. For example, words such as "benjo" (toilet), "pan" (bread), and "sensei" (teacher) are reportedly still used in their original forms. From such linguistic traces, one can sense that the influence of Japan from the past still remains rooted in daily life. In Japan, memories and awareness of the Second World War are gradually fading, but when I have visited Taiwan and other Asian countries, I have similarly felt that Japanese culture and traditions still live on today. Those who once governed tend to let those memories fade away, but through exchanges with visitors, I was once again reminded that this is a part of history that must not be forgotten. Going forward, I would like to continue to carefully take in this kind of history and culture while valuing my interactions with international visitors to Japan.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station~Miyajimaguchi Station420JPY
    Section 2TrainMiyajimaguchi Station~Nishi-Hiroshima Station330JPY
    Section 3BusNishi-Hiroshima Station~Hiroshima Peace Park240JPY
    Total990JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Osaka: Osaka Castle & Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street

    Osaka: Osaka Castle & Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet up @ Zentis Osaka
    • 9:35 Osaka Castle
    • 11:30 Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street
    • 12:45 Shinsekai Lunch
    • 14:30 Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
    • 15:30 Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street
    • 16:00 Dotonbori~Shinsaibashisuji Shopping Street
    • 17:00 Disband @ Zentis Osaka

    What Does a Private Osaka Walking Tour Include? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Shinsekai, and Dotonbori The guests were visitors from North America whom I had guided in Kyoto the previous week. By coincidence, I also had the chance to guide them around Osaka the following week. Because we already knew each other well, the tour went very smoothly. At Osaka Castle, we carefully explored each floor, and I finally took them to the Toyotomi Stone Wall Museum, where they were deeply impressed by the valuable exhibits and the rich history. After that, I guided them through the Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street and Shinsekai, and they enjoyed the okonomiyaki they had been looking forward to. They found it very delicious, and they were especially fascinated by having it cooked right in front of them. They were also delighted by the sacred atmosphere of Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine. Finally, I guided them from Namba to Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi, and we parted at the Hotel almost exactly on schedule.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKitashinchi~Osaka Tenmangu150JPY
    Section 2SubwayMinamimorimachi~Tanimachi 4-chome190JPY
    Section 3TrainOsakajokoen~Tenma180JPY
    Section 4SubwayTenjinbashisuji 6-chome~Dobutsuen-mae240JPY
    Section 5SubwayEbisucho~Tengachaya190JPY
    Section 6TrainTengachaya~Sumiyoshi Taisha180JPY
    Section 7TrainSumiyoshi Taisha~Namba240JPY
    Section 8SubwayYotsubashi~Nishi-Umeda240JPY
    Total1,610JPY

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

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

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

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

    May 26, 2025
    SK G
    Excellent tour
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
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  • Osaka in Half a Day: Namba/Shinsaibashi area & Kuromon Market

    Osaka in Half a Day: Namba/Shinsaibashi area & Kuromon Market

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Hotel meetup
    • 10:30 Namba/Shinsaibashi area
    • 11:00 Kuromon Market
    • 12:30 Tour ends at Kani Doraku

    What Is a Private Osaka Food Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kuromon Market The guests were a group visiting from North America. It was an occasion of celebration for them, and I was honored to be able to guide them on such a special day. Originally, I had planned to show them Shinsekai, Namba, and Kuromon Market, but since they had visited Shinsekai the day before, I suggested Namba Yasaka Shrine and Osaka Castle instead. However, they asked to skip these, as they would be seeing many sights in Kyoto the following day. After enjoying a morning meal at a cafe and shopping at a discount store, I guided them to Kuromon Market. When I recommended a fish shop that prepares fish on the spot, they were delighted to enjoy fresh sashimi. Since they wanted to have kamameshi rice at a crab restaurant, I helped them place their order, and with that, the tour came to an end.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShinsaibashi~Nipponbashi190JPY
    Total190JPY

    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!

    Sep 13, 2026
    946jakobr
    Mizu, as your guide in Koyoto, is the perfect guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed…

    Sep 5, 2026
    Sightsee18435593786
    De moeite waard👍
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Mizu heeft een mooie rondleiding geheven er werd…

    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…