Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • AM 10:10 Start at hotel
    • Travel by railway to Toji
    • AM 10:30- 11:30 Toji tour
    • Travel by railway from Kyoto Station to Fushimi Inari
    • AM 11:45-PM 12:45 Fushimi Inari tour
    • Travel to Gion-Shijo
    • PM 13:15 – PM 14:00 Stroll around Gion
    • Tour concludes at Gion Corner

    What Is a 4-Hour Private Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America. Because they were staying at a resort near Kinkaku-ji, and to make the most of the 4-hour tour time, we arranged to meet at Kyoto Station, though traffic was heavy and the tour started about 10 minutes late. At To-ji Temple, we visited the Jikido (dining hall), the Kodo (lecture hall), and the Kondo (main hall). Everyone in the group listened to the explanations with great interest. There happened to be a special sale of indigo-dyed items being held in the dining hall, and the guests purchased some pieces they liked. At Fushimi Inari, the guests tried the Omokaru-ishi (wishing stone) and bought some charms, and I believe they enjoyed themselves. The tour ended in front of Gion Corner.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Toji180JPY
    Section 2TrainToji~Kyoto180JPY
    Section 3TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 4TrainFushimi Inari~Gion-Shijo170JPY
    Section 5TrainHankyu Kawaramachi~Hankyu Karasuma170JPY
    Section 6SubwayShijo~Kyoto220JPY
    Total1,070JPY

    Hello , My name is Hideharu Yoshino . Just call me” Yoshi” .
    I have been involved with many foreign Business partners through my business life for 38 years ,
    Based on my work experience , I would like to try my best to make you comfortale and Happy fruitful times during your stay in Japan .
    Not only giving you basic tourist information about famous sightseeing spot , also I would enjoy to give you the back ground inofrmation in my word.
    ” Once in a lifetime encounter ” Let’s enjoy with me Miracle time to be picked up from 6 billion in somewhere Japan!

    Sep 29, 2026
    matthewsY2654UC
    Highly recommended!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Yoshi is an exceptional guide where he took us…

    Sep 28, 2026
    751juergend
    Perfect day in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the perfect guide, very…

    Sep 27, 2026
    karen_f
    YOSHI san was incredible!
    Viator review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    YOSHI met us at our…

    Sep 19, 2026
    Plumb72
    A morning in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a fab tour with Yoshi…

  • Kyoto: Shiokoji Cafe @JR Kyoto Station & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kyoto: Shiokoji Cafe @JR Kyoto Station & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 6:30 Meeting at Hotel Kyoto Sanjo Premier
    • 6:31-41 Walk to subway station
    • 6:47-53 Subway Karasuma-Oike Station -> Kyoto Station
    • 7:00-7:30 Shiokoji Cafe @JR Kyoto Station
    • 7:40-47 JR Kyoto Station -> JR Inari Station
    • 7:48-8:20 Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 8:20-8:28 walk
    • 8:32-37 Keihan Fushimi-Inari Station -> Shichijo Station
    • 8:45-8:55 Bus Keihan-Shichijo stop -> Gojo-zaka and walk
    • 8:55-9:10 Walk
    • 9:10-9:45 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 9:45-10:00 Stroll in Sanneizaka – Yasaka Pagoda – Koshindo Temple
    • 10:00-10:10 Bus Higashiyama-Yasui -> Higashiyama-Sanjo
    • 10:20-27 Subway Higashiyama Station -> Nijojo-mae Station
    • 10:30 End of the tour @Nijo Castle Main Gate

    Title: What Can You See in a 4-Hour Early Morning Private Kyoto Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. The whole group traveled together in a cheerful, friendly atmosphere that felt like a scene from a drama, which was heartwarming to see. They had requested a quick Japanese-style breakfast, which was a challenging request, but I guided them to a cafe in Kyoto Station and they were satisfied. Because it was an early morning tour, there were no crowds at either Fushimi Inari or Kiyomizu-dera, so I was able to take many group photos, which delighted them very much. It was a packed itinerary, and the four hours flew by. When I had guided them all the way to Nijo Castle and the tour was coming to an end, they said they wanted to take a commemorative photo and posed together with me, which became a wonderful memory (the attached photo was taken at Kiyomizu-dera).

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayKarasuma-Oike~Kyoto220JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 3TrainFushimi-Inari~Shichijo170JPY
    Section 4BusKeihan-Shichijo~Gojo-zaka230JPY
    Section 5BusHigashiyama-Yasui~Higashiyama-Sanjo230JPY
    Section 6SubwayHigashiyama~Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Total1,220JPY

    “He was easy to talk to, friendly, and knowledgeable and even made sure we successfully navigated the public transit back to our hotel. If we are ever back in Kyoto, we’d love to book a tour with him again! ”

    “At every side we got an indepth explanation to any minor detail and every question we asked was answered and explained really well. It felt like a relaxing and wholesome walk through Kyoto even while it was pouring rain. We can absolutely recommend choosing Nabet!”

    “Nabet’s English is just perfect, he knows the way around sights, little streets and hidden secrets, he is very authentic…just a perfect tour!”

    Here are just a few of the many kind reviews I’ve received from the more than 100 groups I’ve guided through Kyoto and other cities.

    I’m deeply thankful for the chance to connect with my guests and contribute to a memorable tour experience!

    +Current Occupation+
    • Associate Professor specially appointed for Entrepreneurship Education and University-Based Startup Support
    • Management Consultant for SMEs and startups
    • Government-Licensed Interpreter Guide

    +Hobbies+
    Travel, music, sake, ice hockey, squash, watching soccer

    May 29, 2026
    Tamara M
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kyoto bei Nacht – faszinierende Einblicke in Kultur und Spiritualität
    Ich…

    Oct 21, 2025
    Jana_C
    4-hour private tour with Nabet was ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
    Viator review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing experience…

    Oct 16, 2025
    987kayeh
    Knowledgeable guide who was will to respond to our multiple questions
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Thankyou…

    Oct 16, 2025
    janiec555
    Significant sites in Kyoto
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nabet is an excellent guide. He explained Japanese…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 11:00 Meet at Hotel Tokyo
    • 2. 11:30 Meiji Shrine
    • 3. 12:30 Harajuku (Takeshita Street)
    • 4. 13:00 Lunch (Gonpachi Shibuya)
    • 5. 14:30 Shibuya (Scramble Crossing・Hachiko Statue)
    • 6. 15:15 Asakusa
    • 7. 16:15 Akihabara
    • 8. 17:00 Disband at Hotel Tokyo

    Title: What's a Full-Day Private Taxi Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America on a celebration trip. They had arrived in Japan the day before and planned to continue to Kyoto and Osaka afterward, for a stay in Japan of about a week in total. Today's tour was arranged by taxi, and I guided the group through Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, Shibuya, Asakusa, and Akihabara. They listened attentively to my explanations and enjoyed each location. On the day, the group requested a gluten-free option for lunch, so we went to Gonpachi in Shibuya. While gluten-free choices were available, the menu was limited; the Gonpachi at Azumabashi in Asakusa offers a wider variety. In Akihabara, some of the guests wanted to do a bit more shopping and said they would return on their own after the tour. Finally, we returned to the Hotel, where the tour concluded. [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.

    Hello, I’m Haruhiko Yokota, a certified tour guide based in Tokyo and a top-ranked guide registered with JGA Inc. Please feel free to call me Haru.
    I’ve been living in Tokyo for about 30 years and conducted close to 200 tours between 2023 and 2025. I’m very familiar with most major sightseeing spots in and around Tokyo, ranging from traditional temples and shrines to modern attractions. I also enjoy traveling throughout Japan, which has given me extensive knowledge of popular destinations across the country.
    I’m happy to customize your tour to match your interests and preferences. If you have any requests or questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. I’ll do my best to make your tour both enjoyable and memorable!

    Sep 29, 2026
    S77OGjoyh
    Excellent Guided walking tour of temple, shrine and outdoor food market Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day…

    Sep 16, 2026
    Kerry_M
    10/10 tour with Haruhiko Yokota
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We toured Tokyo with Haruhiko Yokota…

    Jul 13, 2026
    529gregj
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Haru is an excellent guide in Tokyo
    Haru (Haruhiko…

    Jul 12, 2026
    Felice R
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Touring gardens in Tokyo with the perfect guide , Haru…

  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • PM 12:00 Hotel Start
    • Travel by railway and bus to Ginkaku-ji
    • PM 13:00-13:40 Ginkaku-ji sightseeing
    • Travel on foot to the Philosopher's Path
    • PM 14:00-14:30 Honen-in sightseeing
    • Travel on foot, tea break along the way
    • PM 15:00- 15:30 Antoku-ji sightseeing
    • Travel on foot
    • PM 15:45-16:30 Eikan-do sightseeing
    • Travel on foot to Keage, via the Nanzen-ji Sanmon Gate
    • Travel by railway to Gion
    • PM 17:10-17:30 Gion sightseeing
    • Travel by railway to Kyoto Station, tour disbands at Kyoto Station PM 18:00

    Can You Do a Private Walking Tour from Ginkaku-ji Along the Philosopher's Path to Nanzen-ji in Kyoto? A Licensed Guide's Report During the pre-tour discussion, the guests expressed a wish to walk from Ginkaku-ji along the Philosopher's Path and visit temples down to Nanzen-ji. We had also planned to include Honen-in, Reikan-ji, and Eikan-do, but since Reikan-ji was closed, we instead visited Antoku-ji, which happened to be open to the public at the time. Although it was quite a long walk, the guests were very active travelers who had taken part in portions of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage and the Kumano pilgrimage, and they seemed to enjoy the Philosopher's Path during the off-season. At Nanzen-ji we were short on time and only took photos of the Sanmon gate, but the guests were satisfied. Since they requested to stop by Gion and then head to Kyoto Station at the end of the tour, we concluded the tour at Kyoto Station.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTambaguchi~Nijo150JPY
    Section 2SubwayNijo~Sanjo Keihan220JPY
    Section 3BusSanjo Keihan-mae~Ginkaku-ji-mae230JPY
    Section 4SubwayKeage~Sanjo Keihan220JPY
    Section 5TrainSanjo Keihan~Gion-shijo170JPY
    Section 6TrainHankyu Kawaramachi~Hankyu Karasuma170JPY
    Section 7SubwayShijo~Kyoto220JPY
    Total1,380JPY

    Hello , My name is Hideharu Yoshino . Just call me” Yoshi” .
    I have been involved with many foreign Business partners through my business life for 38 years ,
    Based on my work experience , I would like to try my best to make you comfortale and Happy fruitful times during your stay in Japan .
    Not only giving you basic tourist information about famous sightseeing spot , also I would enjoy to give you the back ground inofrmation in my word.
    ” Once in a lifetime encounter ” Let’s enjoy with me Miracle time to be picked up from 6 billion in somewhere Japan!

    Sep 29, 2026
    matthewsY2654UC
    Highly recommended!
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Yoshi is an exceptional guide where he took us…

    Sep 28, 2026
    751juergend
    Perfect day in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the perfect guide, very…

    Sep 27, 2026
    karen_f
    YOSHI san was incredible!
    Viator review: Kanazawa Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    YOSHI met us at our…

    Sep 19, 2026
    Plumb72
    A morning in Kanazawa
    Tripadvisor review: Kanazawa Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a fab tour with Yoshi…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: TOYOSU Market & TSUKIJI

    Tokyo in Half a Day: TOYOSU Market & TSUKIJI

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:40 Meet at around ticket gates of Marunouchi South gate in the Tokyo Station
    • 10:15 1 TOYOSU Market
    • 11:45 2 TSUKIJI
    • 12:15 see off at Nihonbashi Takashimaya SC
    • (We took the two guests to the reserved restaurant at their desired lunch time and took our leave)

    What Is a Private Tokyo Day Tour Like for Visitors from North America? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, making their first trip to Japan. They came to visit a Japanese family with whom they had maintained a close, family-to-family relationship over the years, including someone they had once hosted through a homestay. The tour was booked by a member of that Japanese family, who kindly brought the guests to the meeting point at Tokyo Station, where we exchanged greetings, confirmed the day's plan, and got started. Following the itinerary I had proposed, we headed to Toyosu Market. Sensing that walking was somewhat difficult for the guests, I used escalators and elevators as much as possible. Since this took some time, we only briefly passed by the Tsukiji Outer Market from the planned itinerary and moved on to Nihonbashi Takashimaya SC, where a lunch reservation had been made. I guided them to the reserved restaurant, confirmed their order, and then took my leave.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassYurakucho~Toyosu700JPY
    Section 2TrainToyosu~Shijo-mae189JPY
    Section 3TrainShijo-mae~Toyosu189JPY
    Section 4Free PassToyosu~Shintomicho/Tsukiji→Nihonbashi0JPY
    Section 5TrainTokyo~Yurakucho146JPY
    Total1,224JPY

    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 spare 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.

    Sep 21, 2026
    judygU2038FZ
    A wonderful time in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had such a…

    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…

  • Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Nara Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 近鉄奈良駅 (ツアー開始)
    • 9:50-10:30 吉城園(入園無料)  (徒歩5分)
    • 10:40-50 東大寺南大門  (徒歩5分)
    • 11:00-30 東大寺大仏殿 (徒歩5分)
    • 11:40-50 東大寺鐘楼 (徒歩5分)
    • 12:00-30 東大寺二月堂 (絵馬堂茶屋にて昼食)
    • (徒歩10分)
    • 12:50-13:00 若草山のふもと (徒歩5分)
    • 13:20-50 春日大社 (公園内を徒歩15分)
    • 14:20- ならまち(旧商人街):
    • 16:00 中谷堂(ツアー終了)

    What Is a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Nara Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Oceania. One of them had a strong interest in flowers and had hoped to visit Isuien Garden, but unfortunately it was closed that day. Even so, the guests enjoyed Yoshikien Garden instead. (I knew that Isuien Garden is generally closed on Tuesdays, but I had forgotten until that very morning. Speaking of closing days, Mizuya Chaya used to be closed only on Wednesdays, but it has since changed to being closed on both Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Nakatanidou, famous for its mochi pounding, was also closed today. It used to have no regular closing day, but now it is closed on Tuesdays. I had carelessly forgotten this as well.) The guests walked around all day, and they asked many questions about my explanations of Buddhism, Shinto, and history, which made guiding them very easy and enjoyable. I once again realized that Aussie English is easier for me than American English.

    Hello! Thank you for choosing Nara! I bet you’ll love Nara. I specialize in Nara because Nara is the unique place where in one day you can cover the history and religions of Japan from the ancient times to the post war era while enjoying rambling in the UNESCO World Heritage park, having communication with lovely deer, surrounded with the beautiful nature.
    I grew up in Nara, went university in Kyoto, enjoyed teaching at high schools and a university in Osaka. The three former capitals of Japan are home to me.
    After retiring from teaching I began guiding so that I can meet various people from various corners of the world with a variety of cultures and backgrounds. Each time I guide, I find it hugely rewarding because I learn a lot from my guests sharing the history, culture and all that I know about Nara, Kyoto and Osaka.
    I used to be a marathon runner, mountain climber and skier though I am not much of them anymore.
    What I especially recommend is to stay in Nara a couple of days and enjoy communicating with friendly deer while visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nara in early morning, temples and shrines at night are well worth experiencing.

    May 16, 2026
    I3520JTcristinat
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nara with family
    Excellent tour with Junichi!!! Perfect English speaking guide and…

    May 3, 2026
    Maria_J
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Enjoyable day in Nara
    We spent 6 hours in Nara with Junichi…

    Apr 11, 2026
    64sandig
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Osaka DEP. with Licensed Guide
    ????? Absolutely Outstanding ? Junichi Made Our Nara Day…

    Mar 30, 2026
    dpadillachavez
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 8hr Private Tour – Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
    Great day at Nara!
    Best tour on Nara, Junichi…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Tsutenkaku Tower & Castle Keep

    Osaka in Half a Day: Tsutenkaku Tower & Castle Keep

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Hotel meetup
    • 11:30 Tsutenkaku Tower
    • 12:30 Shinsekai, Jan-Jan Yokocho
    • 13:45 Osaka Castle Outer Moat
    • 14:30 Castle Keep
    • 15:00 Tour ends on the 5th floor inside the Castle Keep
    • ✳Briefly explain the food festival being held at Osaka Castle and access to Umeda Sky Building
    • (You had requested the Sky Building if there was time)

    What's a Private Osaka Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Tsutenkaku and Osaka Castle The guests had just arrived at their Hotel at 8:00 in the morning and mentioned they had not slept much. They were a friendly group visiting from North America. At Tsutenkaku, they were interested in the slider as well, but since the reception explained that it required a separate reservation, they viewed only the observation deck. They added the open-air observation deck and appeared to enjoy taking photos. At Jan Jan Yokocho, they bought only ice cream and fried chicken from a stand to eat, but by the time we reached Osaka Castle, some of the guests seemed quite tired from hunger and lack of sleep. They listened attentively to the historical stories and seemed interested in topics such as the difference between the Emperor and the Shogun. ✳ I received a tip at the end.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNippombashi Station~Ebisucho Station190JPY
    Section 2SubwayDobutsuen-mae Station~Tanimachi 4-chome Station240JPY
    Total430JPY

    Hi, everyone! Nice meeting you! I’m Yoshimi, Japan National Licenced Tour Guide.
    I live in Osaka city with my family, working for overseas trade.
    I love traveling abroad as well as in Japan regardless urban area or countryside.
    So interested in interacting with you through attractive sightseeing spots around Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, etc.
    Osaka is famous as exciting big city and delicious food, Kyoto and Nara boast more than 1000years history with lots of UNESCO world heritage site.
    I also would like to introduce Japanese culture such as Sa-do or tea ceremony, Ka-do, or flower arrangement, Kimono wearing.
    What intrigue you in Japan? Depending on your interest, I’m able to recommend anything, anywhere.
    Please let me know what kind of thing you’d like to see or experience.
    Really looking forward to seeing you soon!

    Jun 5, 2025
    annandjamesa2025
    Great Half Day tour in Osaka with Kelly
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kelly was a great…

    May 25, 2025
    vibhutit2025
    Enjoyed
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The guide was super friendly and loving. I enjoyed my time…

    Apr 1, 2025
    S2203HDjoanneh
    Guided tour Osaka
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Today, Kelly was our guide in Osaka, and she…

  • Tokyo: Toyosu Market & Tsukiji

    Tokyo: Toyosu Market & Tsukiji

    Tour Itinerary

    • 5:00 Meet @Prince Park Tower
    • 5:20 Toyosu Market (Seafood Wholesale Building~Seafood Intermediate Wholesale Building)
    • 7:15 Tsukiji (Uogashi~Outer Market)
    • 8:15 Tsukiji Hongwanji
    • 8:30 Dismiss@Tsukiji 4-chome

    What Is a Private Tokyo Toyosu Market and Tsukiji Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. In the taxi to Toyosu, I learned that one of the group had a relative in the seafood industry who handles tuna in Asia, so I braced myself for a challenging day. Fortunately, one of the guests enjoyed talking, so I encouraged them to share what they knew and made them feel good by saying, "Impressive, you really know your stuff!" before adding supplementary explanations. Meanwhile, I talked about the evolution of the supply chain and the issue of succession for expert appraisers in connection with Japan's declining birthrate and aging population. At the seafood intermediate wholesalers' building and Tsukiji Uogashi, the guests filled a large eco-bag with wakame, wasabi, sashimi soy sauce, and dashi stock, and at the outer market they enjoyed beef skewers and strawberries. Since they had a 9:00 reservation at teamLab Planets, I took them to Hongwanji Temple, stayed with them until 8:30, saw them into a taxi, and we parted ways.

    Hello! My name is Hideki Maruyama. I was born in Osaka and raised in the Greater Tokyo area. I obtained my National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate in February 2016.
    I spent 23 years working at a leading Japanese automotive company, including 7 years posted overseas. I then worked for a German premium automotive manufacturer for 13 years, followed by 6 years as an advisor to a British energy company. Through these roles at global corporations, I developed and refined key skills such as:
    1. Cross-cultural communication
    2. A deep understanding of business elites and affluent customers
    3. The ability to deliver impactful and impressive presentations in English
    In addition to my regular duties, I often served as an interpreter for top executives during meetings with foreign government officials. I also had opportunities to introduce aspects of Japan—such as our national character and consumer preferences—to leadership teams in both the German and British companies.
    As a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding guests from a wide range of countries especially after the pandemic, including the US, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Ireland, Norway, Sweden, Romania, Slovenia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, India, Hong Kong, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Turkey, Jordan, Kenya and Israel.
    When guiding, I always keep in mind to go beyond what guests can find on social media or ChatGPT. I believe my professional background allows me to offer unique insights, and I am encouraged when guests mention this in their reviews

    Jun 14, 2026
    tiffany_w
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Phenomenal experiance
    Hideki san was an amazing guide. He was incredibly knowledgable…

    Jun 13, 2026
    Joshua_A
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    The Best Guide I Had in Japan
    Hideki was, without question, my…

    May 2, 2026
    Bruce G
    Our guide (Hideki san) was a master. It was a rainy day and he suggested a new plan in anticipation…

    Apr 30, 2026
    johnbD9596UO
    Lovely Private tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My wife and I had a great…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Hiroshima Peace Park

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 Hotel Meet
    • 09:00 Miyajima
    • 12:00 Lunch
    • 13:00 Hiroshima Peace Park
    • 16:00 Atomic Bomb Dome (disband)

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Miyajima and Hiroshima Peace Park Like? A Licensed Guide's Report On this day, I guided guests visiting from North America. [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. One of the guests had studied abroad in Okinawa during high school, so simple conversation in Japanese was possible. The private tour covered Miyajima and Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park under clear, sunny weather. At Itsukushima Shrine, I explained the proper etiquette for worship. At Daisho-in Temple, the guests experienced the Kaidan-meguri, a walk through a darkened passage beneath the temple. We also strolled along Maple Road, and at the Peace Memorial Park, we offered a moment of silent prayer in remembrance. During the tour, I explained that Hiroshima is famous as a producer of oysters. In response, the guests shared that crab is especially delicious in their home region in North America. Conversations about food are lively regardless of nationality, and this time as well, our conversation flowed in a warm and friendly atmosphere. I was reminded once again of the importance of experiencing a wide variety of food cultures.

    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…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Uji Byodoin Temple & Tale of Genji Museum

    Kyoto in One Day: Uji Byodoin Temple & Tale of Genji Museum

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet @ Hotel Resol Kyoto Kawaramachi Sanjo
    • 10:30 Visit Uji Byodoin Temple
    • 11:45 Visit Kosho-ji Temple
    • 12:45 Lunch @ Fukujuen Restaurant
    • 13:15 Visit Uji Shrine and Ujigami Shrine
    • 13:45 Visit The Tale of Genji Museum
    • 15:15 Disband @ Gion-Shijo

    Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Uji from Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Oceania, visiting Japan for the first time. After Tokyo and Kanazawa, they arrived in Kyoto and planned to stay there for a few days. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide offered a choice between Uji and a standard Kyoto sightseeing course, and the guests chose Uji. Byodo-in was more crowded than usual due to school excursion students, but we were able to visit Byodo-in Phoenix Hall without much waiting time, and we managed to see the other spots without feeling crowded. The guests seemed to especially like Kosho-ji Temple, and they listened to my explanations with great interest. They also seemed to enjoy the lunch at Fukujuen (they ordered cha-soba, green tea buckwheat noodles), eating it with obvious pleasure. I believe that choosing Uji turned out to be the right decision, and I was glad about that.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainJR Kyoto~Uji240JPY
    Section 2TrainKeihan Uji~Gion-Shijo320JPY
    Total560JPY

    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.

    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…