Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Fukagawa Fudo Temple

    Tokyo in One Day: Asakusa & Fukagawa Fudo Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:00 Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
    • 8:50 Asakusa
    • 11:00 Kiyosumi Garden
    • 11:40 Lunch at Sushi Shirakawa
    • 12:40 Fukagawa Fudo Temple
    • 14:00 Disband at the Toei Shinjuku Line ticket gate

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Kiyosumi Garden, and Fukagawa Fudo-do The guests were visiting Japan on a long trip. Since there had been only a single email exchange beforehand, I felt slightly uneasy, and because the hotel in question was full of international visitors, I anticipated that it would be difficult to identify the guests. For this reason, I emailed the hotel the morning before, and had them leave a message describing what I would be wearing on the day. At 8:00 the guests spotted me right away and the tour began smoothly. As it happened, a bonsai was on display, so I started with an explanation of that (since it is one of my own hobbies). The destinations were left up to me. We decided to go to Asakusa first, but we got so absorbed in conversation on the train that we passed the station where we were supposed to get off. In Asakusa the guests took an interest in all sorts of things and stopped each time, so it took more time than expected. As a result, I changed the order to Kiyosumi Garden first and Fukagawa Fudo-do afterward. At the omikuji fortune at Senso-ji, one of the guests drew a "bad luck" fortune saying that a new home and marriage were not for now. They looked at each other and burst out laughing. I reassured them not to worry, explaining that this is a place with so many "bad luck" fortunes that countless school-trip students tie them up there. Then, to everyone's relief, the other guest drew a "good luck" fortune indicating that marriage was fine, and that fortune was carefully tucked away in a bag. At Kiyosumi Garden we were greeted by friendly turtles and carp, and the guests were all smiles; one of them put a hand into the water and played with the carp until the very moment the fish opened its mouth to take it. Unlike other Japanese gardens, this place has a way of relaxing the atmosphere, which is wonderful. Since the guests said they liked sushi, we went to a sushi restaurant near the garden for lunch, and as we happened to get counter seats, they could watch the sushi being made and take photos, and they were very pleased with both the sushi and the miso soup made with shrimp shells. At Fukagawa Fudo-do, someone from the temple congratulated them on their marriage, and on that person's recommendation they purchased a goma-ki prayer stick for household safety, wrote their names and traditional ages on it, and took a commemorative photo. Afterward they watched the 13:00 goma fire ritual, and during it had their belongings purified as well. They said it was a truly wonderful experience and thanked me. After this they had a massage appointment booked in Shinjuku, so the tour ended. Unfortunately we were unable to visit Nezu Shrine, which was a slight regret for me, but I was grateful to have guided such a pleasant and kind group.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku~Kanda178JPY
    Section 2SubwayKanda~Asakusa178JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa~Kiyosumi-Shirakawa209JPY
    Total565JPY

    Nice to meet you. I am delighted to introduce myself. My nickname is Danda. I live in Saitama prefecture next to Tokyo, but I was brought up in Kanazawa, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. My favorite things are bonsai and hiking. Also, I have been a big fun of history and sumo since my childhood. As for the guide, I have enjoyed making communication with foreign visitors since 2019. I have taken more than 30 private groups to not only major scenic spots but also their favorite places such as tea ceremony, maid cafe, sumo tournament, bonsai village, fire ritual and so on. I can arrange the original tour based on your requests and curiosity. It will be only for you. I look forward to meeting you soon. Thank you.

    Apr 21, 2026
    Sabrina_F
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Balade riche en découvertes
    Nous avons passé un super moment avec Danda.…

    Apr 14, 2026
    davidjonesresponseen
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Walking tour with Danda in Tokyo
    Excellent walking tour, we followed our…

    Apr 10, 2026
    Anna_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour with great guide
    Excellent tour with a very good guide…

    Mar 25, 2026
    Nahmjee_L
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour guide and experience.
    Danda was great with my family. He…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Shitennoji Temple & Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

    Osaka in Half a Day: Shitennoji Temple & Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Meet @ Hotel Hankyu Respire Osaka
    • 11:40-12:45 @ Osaka Castle, Hokoku Shrine
    • 13:10-13:45 @ Shitennoji Temple
    • 14:00-14:15 @ Shinsekai
    • 14:30-14:40 @ Harukas Garden
    • 15:00:15:30 @ Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
    • 15:35 Disband @ Sumiyoshi Taisha Station

    Title: Can You Do a Private Day Tour of Osaka and Kyoto? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. This was the first visit to Japan for some of the group, while another had been to Osaka before, having previously only walked around the city without a guide. This time they wanted to start in Osaka and then explore various parts of Japan carefully, including Kyoto, Kanazawa, Tokyo, Sendai, and Aomori, and enjoy the differences between each place. They loved nature, and every time they heard birdsong they would search for where it was coming from, and whenever they found the few remaining cherry blossoms they would take photographs. They were quiet and gentle, and it was memorable to see them purify their hands at the temizuya just as I had shown them and then worship quietly at the shrines and temples.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayUmeda~Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome~Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 3TrainTennoji-ekimae~Sumiyoshitorii-mae240JPY
    Total670JPY

    I’m Sahiko Ogura, Sachiko literally means ‘happy child’, please call me Sachiko or Sachi for short. I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been guide for 6 years mainly in Osaka, Kyoto and Nara after having worked far trading company. I love traveling and visited about 30 countries, where I had a great time and experienced something new and exciting. I also like sports, tea ceremony and gardening, I’m growing veritable and flower in my garden. Please let me know your interest and anything what you would like to do during your tour. I’m happy to make an itinerary customized for you.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you and exploring in my home town!

    Jul 30, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We spent half…

    Jul 12, 2026
    angiegI1120DY
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great tour! Great guide!
    Sachi was a great guide. She customized…

    Jul 8, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    We Miss Osaka Already
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sachiko O. was our guide…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Relax64382499520
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A memorable experience!
    Wonderful experience with an amazing guide! Ms. Sachiko Ogura,…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Shinjuku Gyoen & Ginza

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Shinjuku Gyoen & Ginza

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at the hotel
    • 9:40 Shinjuku Gyoen
    • 11:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 12:10 Shibuya Crossing, Hachiko
    • 12:50 Ginza
    • 13:10 End of guide

    Title: What's a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like in Cherry Blossom Season? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from North America. They had toured various parts of Japan by cruise ship after starting in Asia, with Tokyo as their final destination. At Shinjuku Gyoen, the Somei-Yoshino cherry blossoms had already fallen, but double-flowered cherry varieties such as Ichiyo, Kanzan, and Ukon, along with the delicate Oshima cherry and azaleas that had begun to bloom, delighted the guests, who loved flowers. At Meiji Shrine, I explained the relationship between Shinto and Buddhism in Japanese life. The guests took photos by the camphor trees and happily wrote their wishes on an ema votive plaque. After guiding them to the Shibuya Crossing and the Hachiko statue, I gave them a short tour of Ginza near their hotel, then introduced some lunch options before concluding the tour.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTsukiji Market~National Stadium220JPY
    Section 2SubwayShinjuku-sanchome~Meiji-jingumae180JPY
    Section 3SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya180JPY
    Section 4SubwayShibuya~Ginza210JPY
    Total790JPY

    My name is Shuji, meaning “Excellent Manager” in English. I was born in Hiroshima 1952. I have 2 children and 3 grandchildren.
    After graduating Kyoto Univ. I joined Mitsubishi-UFJ Bank, Osaka Branch where I met my wife who was a master of Englsih, so I started studying English.
    The bank allowed me to go to Columbia Graduate business school in New York and got MBA Degree there. I worked in London and Manchester Branch.
    During staying in U.K., I was introduced by BBC and Financial Times News Paper about my achievement there. I was selected as a personal assistant and interpreter for the President of the Bank.
    I made many business trips with him to overseas countries. I experienced as an interpreter for meeting late Henry Kissinger and the President of Citi. Corp.
    I changed the job to ORIX corporation, there I was promoted to a Board Member. When the company had acquired Dutch company, I was a member as an accountant to check the Dutch company’s statements of accounts.
    My hobbies are cooking, singing a song, playing tennis & golf, enjoy seeing arts especially opera & musical, travel. I am also busy with taking care of grandchildren. I passed Government Licensed Guide Exam. in 2016. After I retired in 2017, I started guide job as a part timer. So far, I accomplished guide job more than 500 times.
    My area coverage is from Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji to Kyoto, Nara, Oaka, Hiroshima. I am also able to guide Tea Ceremony, Maiko/Geisha, Sushi Making, Calligraphy, Sumo, Samurai, etc. I can speak excellent English. My knowledge is very wide and deep about not only sightseeing places but Japanese History, Culture, Religion, Daily Life. I know many foreign countries and people. I love talking with all kinds of people including babies with interesting humor.
    By the way, I look young for my age of 74.

    Jul 16, 2026
    salomons666
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto fun
    Amazing with our guide Shuji very kind and acknowledge

    Jul 15, 2026
    P9099TXkennethr
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    A great day
    A great day in the Company of mr. Shuji.

    Jun 28, 2026
    A
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    AmyfromPlano
    Shuji is the best! Once we booked this tour, he reached…

    Jun 22, 2026
    yeseniag981
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Osaka Tour
    Our tour guide Shuji was amazing. He was…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Kyoto Handicraft Center

    Kyoto in One Day: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Kyoto Handicraft Center

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:10 Meet up @ Hilton Kyoto
    • 9:45-10:30 @ Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 11:00-11:40 @ Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 12:55-12:10 Short break @ Ito Kyuemon Kiyomizu Sannenzaka Store
    • 12:35-13:25 @ Nijo Castle
    • 13:50-14:15 Lunch @ Daiichi Asahi Kumano Store
    • 14:20-14:45 @ Kyoto Handicraft Center
    • 14:45 Dismissal @ Kyoto Handicraft Center

    What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like from a Kyoto Hotel? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. It was their first visit to Japan, and they had spent about a few days in Tokyo before coming to Kyoto. The guests came down to the lobby a little late, so we were able to meet around 9:10. They mentioned that they had walked a great deal in Tokyo and their legs were quite tired, and that some jet lag still lingered. Partly for this reason, they used taxis for the entire day except for the walk from the hotel to Fushimi Inari Taisha. At Fushimi Inari Taisha there was a fair amount of crowding, but they were pleased to be able to take a photo together at the Senbon Torii (Thousand Torii Gates). At Kiyomizu-dera, the area near the entrance was crowded, but the inside was more open than expected, which was a pleasant surprise. On the way from Kiyomizu-dera toward Higashioji-dori, they said they wanted to have matcha, so we stopped for a short break at a matcha shop on Sannenzaka near Kiyomizu. The guests had previously watched the TV series "Shogun," so they were excited to explore Nijo Castle. After finishing at Nijo Castle, they were a little hungry and said they wanted to eat ramen or something, so we had lunch at a ramen restaurant near the Kyoto Handicraft Center, our next destination. At the Handicraft Center they purchased several items such as small plates. Afterward, at the guests' request, we parted ways inside the Kyoto Handicraft Center.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSanjo Station~Fushimi Inari Station220JPY
    Total220JPY

    Hi, thank you very much for choosing the JGA tour!

    My name is Kazuhiro Yoshida, please call me “Kaz”.

    I am an English-speaking National Licensed Tour Guide in Japan, and have been guiding mainly in Kyoto and other Kansai areas since April 2023. I have guided over 1,000 tours in total so far, and I am on my way to becoming one of the best English-speaking tour guides in Japan.

    I have a great passion to show people from all over the world, the deep histories and cultures of Japan, the country I truly love.
    I am focused to take you out on a tour that will become one of the best highlights of your entire trip.

    I am glad to have an opportunity to be your guide, and I hope that we can explore many hidden gems of Japan together!

    May 19, 2026
    498stephenq
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    An enjoyable visit
    Really enjoyed our visit with Kaz. Friendly, informative, and…

    Apr 11, 2026
    V5131MFjodieh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kyoto morning tour with Kaz
    Kaz (Kazuhiro) guided my family in historic…

    Oct 14, 2025
    Scenic61154406959
    Great Historical Perspective
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoshida was excellent, he had a great knowledge of…

    Sep 29, 2025
    Jea L
    Excellent Tour of Kyoto with Kaz
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kaz was an excellent tour…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Ginkaku-ji Temple & Teramachi

    Kyoto in One Day: Ginkaku-ji Temple & Teramachi

    Tour Itinerary

    • 08:00 Meet @Dhawa Yura Kyoto
    • 08:30 Visit Ginkaku-ji Temple
    • 09:30 Stroll around the Philosopher's Path; Honen-in, Shinnyo-do, Konkai-Komyoji Temple
    • 11:30 Visit Heian Shrine
    • 12:00 Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace
    • 13:00 ~ Stroll around Teramachi
    • 13:45 Disband @Sanjo Teramachi

    What Is a Private Walking Tour of Northeast Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America on their first trip to Japan. After passing through Okinawa and Fukuoka, they arrived in Kyoto and were staying for a few nights. Since they were scheduled to take a tour of Arashiyama, Kinkaku-ji, and Fushimi Inari the next day, today they chose a course covering the northeastern area centered on Ginkaku-ji. Explaining the differences between Ginkaku-ji and Kinkaku-ji, the characteristics of Zen temples, and the beauty of the gardens, we leisurely walked around the Shishigatani area, which had become quieter now that the cherry blossoms had passed. The guests seemed especially pleased with the charm of hidden gems such as Shinnyo-do and Konkai Komyo-ji. They enjoyed a pleasant walk in the gentle spring breeze.

    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…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Tofuku-ji Temple

    Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Tofuku-ji Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet up @ Rinn Gion Kenninji
    • 9:30 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 10:15 Sannenzaka ~ Yasaka Pagoda
    • 11:00 Sanjusangendo Temple
    • 11:50 Lunch @ Shichijo
    • 12:5 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 14:00 Tofuku-ji Temple
    • 14:30 Disband @ Rinn Gion Kenninji

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, visiting Japan for the first time. We adjusted the itinerary and agreed to have meals a little earlier in the day. Regarding Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the initial plan was to walk there, but on the day itself we decided to take a taxi as it was a bit far. We were blessed with wonderful weather, and the guests were deeply moved by the beauty of the fresh green foliage. At Sanjusangen-do they were impressed by the countless Buddhist statues, and at Tofuku-ji Temple they were struck by the scale of the temple buildings. We finished a little early, but I believe the guests were satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKiyomizu-michi~Higashiyama-Shichijo230JPY
    Section 2TrainShichijo~Fushimi Inari170JPY
    Section 3TrainFushimi Inari~Tofuku-ji170JPY
    Section 4TrainTofuku-ji~Gion-Shijo170JPY
    Total740JPY

    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
    Mr. Hiro provided an excellent experience. Personable…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Shukkeien Garden & Miyajima

    Hiroshima in One Day: Shukkeien Garden & Miyajima

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Pick up at the lobby of Hotel Kuretake-so Hiroshima Otemachi
    • Travel by city tram (9:46-10:03)
    • 10:00-10:45 Shukkeien Garden (approx. 45 min)
    • Travel by bus (10:54-11:01) Maple-loop
    • 11:00-12:30 Peace Park and Museum (approx. 90 min)
    • 12:30-13:30 Lunch (approx. 60 min) Nonta Sushi
    • Travel by World Heritage Sea Route (14:00-14:45)
    • 14:45- Miyajima sightseeing (including Itsukushima Shrine)
    • Travel to the hotel by ferry and city tram
    • 16:10 Miyajima Port 16:33 Miyajimaguchi
    • 16:44 Miyajimaguchi 17:35 Chudenmae

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report In the morning it rained, so we toured Shukkeien Garden, Peace Memorial Park, and the museum while carrying umbrellas. I explained in advance that having an ICOCA card would make getting around convenient and showed where one could be obtained, and the guests were very grateful when we met. The guests viewed the museum with great interest. Since the guests said they would like sushi for lunch, I guided them to a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant near Peace Memorial Park, but it turned out to be different from what they had expected and they did not eat very much, which I truly regretted. In Miyajima, I guided them around Itsukushima Shrine, arranged a sake tasting, and helped with souvenir shopping. As the guests stayed overnight in Hiroshima and were unsure where to have dinner, I recommended an Italian restaurant near the Hotel and called to make a reservation, which they were very pleased about.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainChudenmae~Shukkeien-mae240JPY
    Section 2BusShukkeien-mae~Genbaku Dome-mae240JPY
    Section 3OtherPeace Park~Miyajima1,100JPY
    Section 4TrainMiyajimaguchi~Chudenmae240JPY
    Total1,820JPY

    Hello, I’m Kyoko, a certified regional interpreter-guide for Hiroshima Prefecture. I was born, educated, and worked in Hiroshima while raising my children, and I absolutely love this city. I have a deep interest in learning about history and culture, and I enjoy exploring the city and trying out local foods. Meeting people from diverse backgrounds and chatting with them brings me great joy, so I’m really looking forward to helping make your trip to Hiroshima a wonderful and memorable experience.

    Hiroshima is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Atomic Bomb Dome and Itsukushima Shrine. The Atomic Bomb Dome is a poignant reminder of history, standing gracefully within a beautiful park. Walking through the park together, we can reflect on the powerful message of peace it conveys. Itsukushima Shrine, famous for its red torii gate floating in the sea, is located on a picturesque island. It’s a place where you can enjoy a truly relaxing and serene time.

    I can also guide you to other popular tourist destinations, help you enjoy Hiroshima’s local delicacies such as okonomiyaki, oysters, and conger eel, or assist you with shopping.

    I will do my utmost to ensure that your trip to Hiroshima becomes a wonderful and unforgettable memory.

    May 20, 2026
    629reniea
    Miyajima Island
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hi Kyoko
    We are very sad to hear about…

    May 8, 2026
    Jan S
    We were blessed with perfect weather and the perfect guide. Kyoko was knowledgeable, patient, polite, fun, sense humour
    Tripadvisor review:…

    Apr 9, 2026
    dianne321
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Emotional and confronting
    Moving experience with amazing guide Kyoko.…

    Mar 26, 2026
    Carmen Maria S
    Great afternoon at Hiroshima❤️
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kyoko was an excellent…

  • Tochigi in One Day: Toshogu Shrine & Lake Chuzenji

    Tochigi in One Day: Toshogu Shrine & Lake Chuzenji

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00  Meet up @ Hotel Seikoen
    • 9:40 Toshogu Shrine
    • 11:20 Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park
    • 12:20 Board bus (in front of Tamozawa Imperial Villa)
    • 13:00 Kegon Falls
    • 13:30 Lake Chuzenji
    • 13:50 Lunch @ Restaurant Maple
    • 15:20 Board bus (Tachiki Kannon entrance)
    • 16:00 Disband @ Tobu Nikko Station

    **Title:** What's a Private Nikko Day Tour Like from Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. All the preliminary arrangements had been made through their travel agency, so to be safe I confirmed their wishes and adjusted the itinerary. They wanted to enjoy a good balance of traditional architecture and nature, but with a preference for nature, so among the World Heritage sites we visited only Toshogu Shrine. Since it rained until around midday, we decided to judge how far to go in the latter half depending on the weather. Around Lake Chuzenji it gradually cleared up, but as it was very cold, we took our time enjoying lunch at a restaurant with a view of the lake. As it was their first time in Japan, all the dishes served at the ryokan were things they had never seen before, so I explained them while looking at the photos they had taken. Their impression of Japanese food had been limited to "sushi," so they seemed to enjoy the new experiences. While talking about Europe and Japanese history, the conversation extended to difficult questions about world affairs, Japan's demographics and social insurance, and why, after the peaceful Edo period, there were later so many wars. Lunchtime passed in the blink of an eye, and the scheduled bus time came and went. It seemed they still had many more things they wanted to ask, but in the meantime a staff member at the shop asked me for help, saying they could not understand what another foreign visitor was asking. When I inquired, it turned out the visitor wanted to go to Nikko Station and did not know how. My guests said they were heading that way now too and invited them to go together, and so the challenging conversation came to a close. In the latter half the topics became difficult for my level of English, but when we parted at the end they said, "It was very enjoyable, and we are satisfied that we could talk about so many things," so I was glad.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusIn front of Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park~Chuzenji Onsen1,150JPY
    Section 2BusTachiki Kannon entrance~Tobu Nikko Station1,300JPY
    Total2,450JPY

    Hello! My name is Yumi. The Nikko area, Nasu area, in Tochigi Prefecture, and Aizu and Shirakawa area in Fukushima prefecture, where I will be guiding you, are not only surrounded by beautiful nature in all four seasons but are also full of historical attractions. Nikko, in particular, is a great place to learn about the culture and history that has shaped Japan to this day. In order for you to truly enjoy your day, I am flexible to your wishes and will prepare your day to be a great day. Because I am a local guide, you will surely see some sights that are not in the guidebooks. Is local food one of your favorite parts of your trip? I am also a sushi-making instructor for foreigners, so food is one of my specialties. I am also a certified sake navigator. Why don’t you come and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with me?

    Jul 1, 2026
    laine164
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day!
    We had a wonderful time exploring Nikko.
    Our friendly…

    Apr 7, 2026
    V2097LInickd
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great Guide Yumi Highlights Nikko on walking tour
    Our 16,000 step tour…

    Apr 4, 2026
    O4367MVkarenv
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fantastic day in Nikko
    We had a fantastic day with Yumi. She…

    Nov 10, 2025
    Salutory
    A fascinating tour with a friendly and knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Yumi…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Arashiyama & Guided tour of Teramachi

    Kyoto in One Day: Arashiyama & Guided tour of Teramachi

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:45: Meet at Kyoto Station
    • 11:30: Arashiyama (Bamboo Grove, Kameyama Park)
    • 13:30: Guided tour of Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 15:30: Guided tour of Kiyomizu-dera
    • 16:00: Guided tour of the Gion area (Hanamikoji, Shirakawa Bridge, Tatsumi Shrine)
    • 16:30: Guided tour of Teramachi Shopping Street
    • 17:30: Dismissal @ Kyoto Station

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report At the guests' request, the meeting time was moved up by 15 minutes to 10:45, and we gathered in front of the McDonald's inside Kyoto Station. After confirming today's itinerary (the bamboo grove, Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kiyomizu-dera, Gion, and the shopping arcade), we set off for sightseeing. The guests were on a day trip from Tokyo and mentioned they would return to Kyoto again two days later. The guests were visitors to Japan from North America, a friendly group. At the bamboo grove in Arashiyama they took many photos, but although I introduced Tenryu-ji, they had no cash for the admission fee and gave up on entering. Since they only had cards on hand, I was unable to guide them through the beautiful garden. Because they had not prepared cash, they also did not enter Kiyomizu-dera, and I could only guide them around the grounds. I felt there is a need to make it widely known that Japan is still largely a cash-based society. Fortunately, Fushimi Inari Taisha does not require an admission fee, so I was able to guide them there enjoyably. In front of Kennin-ji, I explained how green tea was first introduced to Japan, and on Hanamikoji Street I gave a detailed explanation about maiko and geiko. This was because two days later they were planning to enjoy a "tea ceremony experience" and, in Gion, watch the "Miyako Odori." Finally, I introduced Nishiki Market, but the guests requested to be taken to Kyoto Station rather than the shopping arcade, so we moved to Kyoto Station and parted ways in front of a café.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainJR Kyoto Station~JR Saga-Arashiyama Station240JPY
    Section 2TrainJR Saga-Arashiyama Station~JR Inari Station240JPY
    Section 3TrainJR Inari Station~JR Tofukuji Station150JPY
    Section 4BusTofukuji Station~Kiyomizuzaka Station230JPY
    Section 5SubwayShijo Station~Kyoto Station220JPY
    Total1,080JPY

    After a rather long teaching experience at Japanese college, I converted my career about 6 years ago into working as a tour guide for the tourists visiting Japan.
    As my career overseas, I’ve been in the UN and the Japanese Embassy, all in the USA, totaling more than 6 years.
    And then I had made a big change in my career from a diplomat to an academic researcher. For that career to achieve, I studied abroad and won a doctorate degree in linguistics from Indiana University and landed a teaching position at college in Japan.
    With all these interesting and exciting experiences I’ve made myself ready to enrich your tour and make it both enjoyable and worthwhile.

    Apr 26, 2026
    39ferdinandr
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Exceptional and entertaining
    Great tour better the tour guide Toshi.

    Apr 9, 2026
    X1429XKclaudiam
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Sehr zu empfehlen
    Wir haben als Familie diese 6-stundige Tour durch Kyoto…

    Jun 28, 2025
    WilliamAlfonso_R
    Toshi is a very eloquent, knowledgeable, and diligent tour guide.
    Viator review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Toshi was…

    May 30, 2025
    Z
    ZevP5
    Best Tour Guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was the best guide!! He was so…

  • Aomori in One Day: Asamushi Aquarium arrive

    Aomori in One Day: Asamushi Aquarium arrive

    Tour Itinerary

    • Dear Benjamin Davidson
    • Welcome to Aomori !
    • 【Aomori Tour】 14th April 2025*4-person
    • 【Aomori tour- 14th April : 6 hours】Diamond Princess
    • 9:00 At the Aomori cruise terminal to the Asamushi Aquarium by taxi.
    • The Asamushi Aquarium is far from down town Aomori,
    • 15 kiro meters.
    • 9:30 The Asamushi Aquarium arrive. (Admission fee: 1,200 yen/one-adult person)
    • 10:00-10:15 Dolphin jumping show.
    • 10:45 Seiryu-ji Temple arrive. (Admission fee: 400 yen/one-person)
    • Five-storied Pagoda and Great Budda-Most highest sitting bronze Buddha in Japan.
    • *Goshuin Stamp*
    • 11:30 Seiryuji Temple dept. By taxi
    • 12:00 Lunch @Kogintei-Japanese Soba Restaurant-
    • 13:30 Warrase Museum arrive. (Admission fee: 620 yen/one-person)
    • In front of Aomori station.
    • Workshop: Nebuta Festival drum hitting and dancing experience.      
    • 15:00 Aomori cruise terminal arrive.

    What Is a Private Tour of Asamushi Aquarium in Aomori Like? A Licensed Guide's Report [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led a private tour to Asamushi Aquarium in Aomori for a group visiting from North America. The guests were baseball fans. I mentioned that Shohei Ohtani played at Hanamaki High School, located to the south of Aomori Prefecture. "Really? Next time we visit Japan, we would love to visit Hanamaki." At the dolphin show and the penguin corner, the guests were filled with joy, delighting in the experience. They were deeply moved by the Great Buddha at Seiryuji Temple. One of the guests spoke with a group of about ten people in a foreign language other than English, having relocated to another region more than twenty years ago. At a teahouse, we enjoyed soba and matcha. "What is this sweet?" It is rakugan. After visiting the Nebuta Warasse museum, they said, "We will definitely come back to Aomori for the Nebuta Festival this year or next!"

    My name is Tomohiko Kudo.
    I live in Aomori city.
    I already visited more than 30 nations so far.
    After official retirement from the public officer, I could have the Japanese Government Licensed Guide Certificate and am nowadays very pleased to guide overseas tourists all over the world.
    Did you know that the Fuji apple is not from Mt.Fuji…but is actually from Aomori Prefecture’ Fujisaki town. Aomori is proud of the biggest apple product in
    Japan. We provide 40 apple-pie restaurants to guests.
    Let’s enjoy real Japanese culture and history with me. I would enjoy with you real Samuri history, Kimono culture, local traditional festivals, castle,
    Japanese garden, temple, shrine, Japanese tea ceremony, food and Sake.
    I often go to the local sea food and vegetable markets and eat fresh foods and would love to show you some secret, hidden restaurants that only Aomori locals know about – let’s go on an adventure together.
    If you like sushi and fresh seafood, let me introduce to Nokkedon ?
    What is it? Come to Aomori and find out! I am waiting for you.

    Jun 2, 2025
    413maryannb
    Tomohiko organized our day beautifully! The car was immaculate, the driver skilled. We thoroughly enjoyed our day!
    Tripadvisor review: Aomori Full-Day…

    Apr 30, 2025
    Jacqueline_F
    Great Guide, great tour
    Viator review: Aomori Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    We experienced the wonderful sites of Aomori which…

    Dec 30, 2024
    Scenic33296385055
    Warm and professional guide
    Tripadvisor review: Aomori Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mr. Kudo-san is very professional, meticulate and kind…

    Aug 3, 2024
    Monika R
    Fun and informative tour – great tour guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Aomori Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    We were 3…