Category: Uncategorized

  • Hyogo in One Day: Descend the mountain by ropeway

    Hyogo in One Day: Descend the mountain by ropeway

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

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:00 Gather in front of the ticket gate at Himeji Station
    • 11:15 Board the bus
    • 12:00 Take the ropeway to Mount Shosha
    • 12:20 Arrive at Manidono by microbus, stroll around
    • 13:45 Have lunch and return to the ropeway station
    • 14:00 Descend the mountain by ropeway
    • 14:11 Take the bus to Koko-en
    • 14:35 Arrive at Koko-en, stroll around
    • 14:55 Walk to Himeji Castle
    • 16:45 Leave Himeji Castle and head to the photo spot
    • 17:00 Disband at Otemae Park

    What Is a Private Himeji Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shoshazan, Kokoen, and Himeji Castle The guests were a group visiting from North America. They had been close friends since working part-time at the same place during their student days, and now live in different places, so this trip was a chance to reunite in Japan after a long time. All of them love Japan very much and said they would like to live here if possible. We first went to Mount Shosha, where we strolled among the cherry blossoms and the fresh greenery. A drama happened to be filming there at the time, which made for a very special scene. We then took a bus back to the city center and visited Kokoen Garden and Himeji Castle. The group walked quickly, so we finished the course a little earlier than planned, and I took them to a spectacular cherry blossom spot at the end, where they took many photos. Afterward we said goodbye at Otemae Park, and I received a thank-you email from them after they returned home.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHimeji Castle North Exit～Mount Shosha Ropeway Sanroku Station320JPY
    Section 2BusMount Shosha Ropeway Sanroku Station～In front of Koko-en320JPY
    Total640JPY

    Tour Report by Rie

    Hello, I’m your tour guide, Rie Ito. Please call me Rie. I have been living in Himeji for 40 years. I would like to show you around our beautiful city. Himeji is very famous for its several sightseeing places. Especially, as the most recommended place, we boast Himeji Castle, the first World Heritage Site of Japan. When you see this message, please contact me through WhatsApp. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask me before the tour. I am sure you will enjoy this local city of Japan with me! I’m looking forward to seeing you. Thank you.

    Request Booking

    Apr 25, 2026
    Alix_M
    Viator review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour of Himeji castle
    Fantastic tour of the beautiful Himeji castle!…

    Oct 3, 2025
    P
    Peggy_M
    Rie is an excellent guide with a lot of knowledge to share
    Viator review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed…

    Aug 6, 2025
    OMAR_A
    Excellente visite avec guide dynamique
    Viator review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour avec une guide compétente et…

    Apr 30, 2025
    JandK14
    A perfect day in Himeji: We saw the cherry blossoms at their peak and had Rie as our guide!
    Tripadvisor review:…

  • Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Osaka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Pick up at Hotel Intergate Osaka Umeda
    • 10:00-13:30 Travel to and stay at Osaka Castle
    • 13:30-16:00 Travel to and stay at Shitennoji Temple (including lunch)
    • 16:00-17:00 Travel to and stay at Umeda Sky Building
    • 17:00 Dismissal

    What Is a Private Osaka Day Tour with Cherry Blossoms Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The day before, the guests contacted me to request a 10:00 start. They were a close-knit group. Since arriving in Japan, they had enjoyed skiing in Hokkaido and walking tours in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima, with Osaka as their final destination. They were in good health and preferred taking the stairs over the escalators. For meals, they had stopped eating seafood, so we had okonomiyaki made without it and enjoyed it. The cherry blossoms were in full bloom at both Osaka Castle and Shitennoji Temple, and now and then, when the wind blew, the petals scattered like snow. All of the guests were taking countless photos. We enjoyed the cherry blossoms and the stone walls at a leisurely pace, and because I matched the tour to the guests' relaxed viewing pace, even though we started half an hour early, it ended up taking extra time. With no additional charge, they relaxed at the Umeda Sky Building, and since their hotel was nearby, they were able to return there, so we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNishi-Umeda～Tanimachi 4-chome240JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 3SubwayShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka～Umeda240JPY
    Total670JPY

    Tour Report by Yuki

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 0900 Meet at Hotel (directly connected to JR Shibuya Station)
    • 0950 Asakusa – Nakamise – Senso-ji Temple – Asakusa Shrine
    • 1140 Ueno – Shogitai Monument – Statue of Saigo Takamori – Kiyomizu Kannon-do – Ueno Toshogu Shrine – Lunch at Hinazushi in Sakura Terrace – Stroll through Ameyoko
    • 1350 Visit Meiji Shrine – Takeshita Street
    • 1515 Shibuya – Hachiko Statue – Scramble Crossing
    • 1530 Guide to Pokemon and Nintendo on the 6th floor of Parco, then disband

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Meiji Shrine, and Ueno Park The guests were a group visiting Tokyo, arriving the night before. One of the guests had spent a short time in Japan long ago, but that was over twenty years earlier. The others were visiting Japan for the first time. Their plan was two days of sightseeing in Tokyo, followed by a trip to the Kansai region, and then a return to Tokyo for two more days of sightseeing. Since it was their first day, they arranged a guide through [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/). They asked many questions about places to visit in the coming days, so I gave them a Tokyo Travel Guide and explained some possible destinations. Senso-ji Temple was decorated in a special style for the Flower Festival. When we were adjusting the schedule in early March, the cherry blossoms seemed likely to be late, and I had mentioned that Ueno Park might be at its best around April 8. However, the blossoms had recently reached full bloom, so I headed there with some anxiety. Although they had just begun to fall, we were still able to see the cherry blossoms in nearly full bloom. As expected, the group was surprised by the drinking parties held beneath the cherry trees. By the time we were strolling through Meiji Shrine, some of the guests began to feel tired from jet lag and all the walking, so I encouraged them by mentioning the Pokémon Nintendo store we would visit afterward. We had matcha soft serve ice cream at Mori no Terrace, which helped restore some energy. Takeshita Street was so crowded that we decided to save it for another day, and instead headed to Shibuya. I guided them to the Pokémon Nintendo store on the 6th floor of Parco, where we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayShibuya～Asakusa252JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Ueno178JPY
    Section 3SubwayUeno-hirokoji～Meiji-jingumae209JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku～Shibuya146JPY
    Total785JPY

    Tour Report by Ted

    I had worked in the international business scene for over 40 years and traveled to North America and European countries over 1000 days.
    After I retired from the business, I traveled to most of the major sightseeing spots in all 47 prefectures in Japan.

    My guide is starting from a brief history of the site where I am going to guide. I usually add a briefing about Japanese culture based on religions, such as Shinto Shrine and Buddhist temples. A geographic background behind the history is also important.
    My course includes 4 to 5 (in 6 hours) sites from the following depending on where I will pick the guests up;
    – Senso ji Temple
    – Kappabashi Kitchenware Market
    – Tokyo Skytree
    – Ueno Park
    – Nezu Shrine
    – Imperial Palace outer park
    – Tokyo Central Station, Marunouchi historic district
    – Tsukiji Fish Market
    – Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    – Ginza
    – Odaiba
    – Hama Rikyu Garden
    – Shinjuku Gyoen Garden
    – Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
    – Roppongi
    – Meiji Shrine
    – Harajuku & Takeshita Street
    – Shibuya
    – and Any of your interest.

    I am happy to introduce Japanese Manga/Anime cultures such as Akihabara, Nakano Broadway and Ghibli related sites.
    Travelling along the JR central line where guests can stopover at major animation studios (it is not accepted to visit the inside). The majority of animation studios such as TMS Entertainment, SUNRISE, A1 Pictures etc. are located in this area. Suginami Animation museum, Studio Ghibli and Ghibli Museum are also located.
    Guests can feel old houses in the Spirited Away scene in the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.

    I can also provide a pilgrimage to the sacred place (shooting location) for the Shinkai Makoto animation movies such as Your name, Weathering with you, and Suzume.

    Another interesting feature is to visit authentic Japanese style pub meals such as Yakitori, Karaage, and Sushi etc.
    Asakusa Hoppy Street, Ameyoko Street, Yurakucho, Shimbashi, Shinjuku Golden gai, Shinjuku Omoide Yokocho are nice to visit.

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

    In addition to the above, I am available in the neighboring cities.

    Kawagoe is an old town developed in the 17th century. It has very close relationship with the Edo central government. Kawagoe castle ruins, Kitain temple and 500 Buddha statues will welcome the guests.
    These areas are renovated and provide an old days atmosphere.
    Japanese style sweets food stands will fascinate the guests.
    Kawagoe is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    Kamakura is the first Samurai worriers government established in the late 12th century.
    The Buddhism are introduced to Japan in the 6th century, and flourished at Nara and Kyoto later. A newer Buddhism sect such as Zen has well developed at Kamakura area.
    Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Gigantic Buddha statue at Kotokuin Temple and the flower temple Hasedera Temple are must-see.
    Kamakura is about 1 – 1.5 train trip from Tokyo.

    I am also happy to develop any other site the guests have interest.

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    Jul 2, 2026
    Susan M
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Family fun in Tokyo.
    A wonderful day. Ted customized our tour…

    Jun 26, 2026
    ann r
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Educational with kind, generous guide
    My teenage sons and I learned…

    Jun 14, 2026
    141yunb
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Can’t believe all that we got to see in 6 hours
    We…

    May 18, 2026
    B
    Beth56646
    Great tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Ted and I agreed upon what we would see…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Tokyu Stay Tsukiji & Kappabashi Kitchen Town

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Tokyu Stay Tsukiji & Kappabashi Kitchen Town

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Tokyu Stay Tsukiji
    • 9:35 Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple
    • 10:10 Asakusa: Culture Tourist Information Center, Sensoji Temple, West Approach
    • 11:30 Kappabashi Kitchen Town
    • 12:20 Ryogoku: Former Yasuda Garden, Edo Noren
    • 13:30 Disband @ Hotel

    What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour Like? Asakusa, Kappabashi, and Ryogoku — A Licensed Guide's Report I guided a group visiting from North America on a private tour of Tokyo. They were on an extended stay of more than 30 days, and I have been assigned to accompany them for two more days. The group had a strong interest in Japan and took a great many photographs throughout the day. Because it was the day of the flower festival, Sensoji Temple featured special decorations not usually seen. At Kappabashi, one of the guests purchased a bamboo rolling mat to make sushi at home. From Kappabashi to Ryogoku, we took a taxi at the guests' suggestion. In front of Ryogoku Station, we were lucky enough to come across some young sumo wrestlers, and when we asked, they kindly posed for a photo together, which delighted the guests. I saw the group off near their hotel and confirmed the plan for the next day before ending the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTsukiji～Asakusa290JPY
    Section 2TrainRyogoku～Akihabara150JPY
    Section 3SubwayAkihabara～Tsukiji180JPY
    Total620JPY

    Tour Report by Takako

    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!!

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    Z222TCshannonr
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    6 hour guided tour of Tokyo
    Our wonderful guide,…

    Jul 9, 2026
    cronima2
    Perfectly guided day
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing day with…

    Jul 3, 2026
    johnoD792VT
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely Guide!
    Takako was an amazing guide! She gave strong insights on…

    Jul 3, 2026
    71nidhim
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Takako was extremely knowledgeable and showed us all the main…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:00　Meet up @Hotel Niwa Tokyo
    • 2. 10:30　@Kitanomaru Park (Tayasu Gate, Chidorigafuchi Greenway)
    • 3. 11:45　@Shinjuku Kabukicho (photo shoot at Godzilla Head)
    • 4. 12:15　@Meiji Shrine
    • 5. 13:15　@Imperial Palace (Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Main Gate)
    • 6. 13:45　@Tokyo Station
    • 7. 14:00 　Lunch @Tokyo Station
    • 8. 14:20　@Asakusa (Tourist Information Center, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, tea break at "Kaminari Issa", Sumida Park)
    • 9. 16:10　Disband @Hotel Niwa Tokyo

    What's a Private Car Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Chidorigafuchi, and Shinjuku The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. They shared that they were traveling to Japan in connection with an opportunity to visit family who were staying in Asia for a period of time, and that everyone in the group had a joyful reunion there. They kindly showed me photos of their family. After arriving in Japan, they had enjoyed Mount Fuji and Kyoto before this Tokyo tour. They mentioned that they had thoroughly enjoyed the cherry blossoms in Kyoto, but they were still delighted and pleasantly surprised by the cherry blossoms at Kitanomaru Park and Chidorigafuchi. However, the highlight was the Godzilla Head in Shinjuku. They told me they had been longtime Godzilla fans for many years. Initially I had planned for them to view the Godzilla Head from the car window, but at their strong request, we got out for a photo session and took many pictures. One of the guests was especially excited, saying it would be a huge hit back home. I mentioned beforehand that they need not feel obligated to take part in anything that differed from their own beliefs, but at Sensoji Temple they actively participated in the purification at the temizuya and in worship at the main hall, and they also enjoyed drawing omikuji fortunes. For lunch they requested something light, so we went to an udon restaurant inside Tokyo Station. One of the guests had meat udon and another had tempura zaru udon, and they finished everything, saying it was delicious. In Asakusa they enjoyed matcha and hojicha ice cream. Although this was a car tour, the driver was a veteran whom I had worked with before, so boarding and getting out went smoothly throughout, making for a very pleasant tour.

    Click here for more details: Tokyo Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Noripy

    Hello, I’m Noripy.
    I am a lively woman in my 60s who loves having fun. My charm lies in my bright and approachable personality. Drawing on over 30 years of international experience, I began working as a tour guide in 2023. I have conducted over 100 tours annually, ensuring that my clients enjoy Tokyo and its surrounding areas. I have received high praise from a wide range of customers, from teenagers to people in their 80s. I cater to solo travelers, couples, newlyweds, families, and groups of up to about 10 people. Living in the heart of the city, I actively guide tours primarily in Tokyo. In addition to being certified in English, one of my strengths is being able to communicate effectively in Spanish as well.
    I’m looking forward to meeting you all in Tokyo!

    Request Booking

    Jul 3, 2026
    Jody D
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Full Day Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle from Yokohama
    Best Post cruise tour ever
    It was…

    June 19, 2026
    Alec T
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo in 4 hours
    Noripy was excellent! She guided us through…

    Jun 16, 2026
    Hema_R
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely experience. My…
    Lovely experience. My guide was an absolutely adorable lady…

    Jun 3, 2026
    Sara B
    Tokyo walking tour with Noripy. A+!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Noripy gave a 5/5 tour!…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Peace Memorial Park & Daishoin Temple

    Hiroshima in One Day: Peace Memorial Park & Daishoin Temple

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

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30　Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 10:00　Peace Memorial Park
    • 11:00　Peace Memorial Museum
    • 12:00　Lunch
    • 12:40　Move to Hiroshima Station
    • 14:30　To Miyajima
    • 15:00　Itsukushima Shrine
    • 15:30　Daishoin Temple
    • 16:20　Depart Miyajima
    • 17:15　Disband at Hiroshima Station

    What Is a Private Miyajima and Hiroshima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests came from Europe for sightseeing. Since I can speak just a little of a Scandinavian language, I greeted them in that language, and we quickly became friendly. They also greatly enjoyed some common anecdotes about language learning. It seems that language-related topics resonate especially well with people from Northern Europe, where being bilingual is often the norm. We folded origami together and dedicated it to the Children's Peace Monument with its paper cranes. It was their very first time doing origami, and they were delighted. I was also glad that okonomiyaki and lemon sour were to their liking. There was a bit of trouble when the JR ferry was suddenly cancelled and we had to switch from JR to the Matsudai Kisen ferry, but at the time of parting they took a photo together with me and gave me chocolate as a souvenir, which made me very happy as well.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station～Kamiyacho240JPY
    Section 2BusKamiyacho～Hiroshima Station240JPY
    Section 3TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 4FerryMiyajimaguchi～Miyajima Pier300JPY
    Section 5FerryMiyajima Pier～Miyajimaguchi200JPY
    Section 6TrainMiyajimaguchi～Hiroshima Station420JPY
    Total1,820JPY

    Tour Report by Rena

    Hello! My name is Rena, and I’m excited to be your guide during your visit to Japan.
    I was born and raised in Hiroshima, a city rich in history and natural beauty.
    Growing up here has given me a deep appreciation for Japanese culture, from its traditional tea ceremonies and temples to the vibrant festivals that bring communities together.

    I also have a passion for Japanese pop culture, including anime and manga, which I would be happy to share with you.
    Beyond Japan, I enjoy exploring the world through travel.
    Discovering different cultures and meeting new people have been some of the most enriching experiences of my life.

    As your guide, I hope to provide not only insights into Japan’s history and traditions but also a personal connection to its modern culture. Let’s create wonderful memories together during your time here!

    Request Booking

    Jul 18, 2026
    Paul_C
    Viator review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    outstanding tour
    Thank you Rena for a wonderful day…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Halie_G
    Great trip!
    Viator review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Rena was absolutely lovely! She gave us…

    Jul 4, 2026
    cheryldG9378NX
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Excellent guide for Miyajima and Hirishima
    Rena was very…

    May 7, 2026
    73parash
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Emotional and educational
    The experience was very good and…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Hiromine Shrine & JR Himeji Station

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Hiromine Shrine & JR Himeji Station

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet at JR Himeji Station
    • 09:30 at Hiromine Shrine
    • 10:45 at Himeji Castle
    • 12:45 at Nadagiku Sake Brewery
    • 13:30 at JR Himeji Station

    What Is a Private Himeji Castle and Sake Brewery Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe, and the tour proceeded smoothly. At Hiromine Shrine, they offered prayers and also experienced the shrine's renowned "Kyusei Mairi" fortune prayer ritual. The cherry blossoms at Himeji Castle were nearly in full bloom, yet compared to the previous days there were far fewer visitors, so there was no waiting time and they were able to explore the castle interior at a relaxed pace. Finally, at the Nadagiku Sake Brewery, which the guests had greatly looked forward to, they toured the facility with great enthusiasm (they mentioned that sake is a favorite of theirs). They enjoyed many tastings and also purchased souvenirs. By good fortune, they were able to meet the brewery's representative, who is also one of Japan's few female master brewers, and took a commemorative photo together. The guests mentioned that from tomorrow they would travel around Osaka and Kyoto and then head to Tokyo, after which they would return to the Kansai area again to visit the "Osaka Expo" opening on the 13th of this month. These guests also seemed to be great admirers of Japan, and it was a pleasure to spend time with them.

    Click here for more details: Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

    This is (Mr.) Yama, greeting from Kobe, Japan.
    I would like to warmly welcome you to Japan this time. I am from the city of Kobe, which is of course, well-known for very tasty Kobe Beef . You can taste
    real genuine Kobe Beef here. Kobe is also called “Home of Japanese Sake” with lots of Sake breweries, and I recommend you would visit those breweries
    if you have any interest in Japanese Sake as well as one aspect of Japanese cultures. Of course, you can have tastings of various kinds of Sake there.

    Whenever during the tour, I always try to make it safe, pleasant and comfortable for all of the guests, which is my first priority. I am very much confident
    that you can have a pleasant and unforgettable experience in Japan. Just tell me about your preference; what you would like to like to see, have, know
    and eat and so on. Particularly, I hold the license for cooking qualified by the government here and maybe, I can reply you for questions related to the
    foods here. In this respect, I strongly recommend you would try not only famous Japanese cuisine such as Sushi, Tempura or Suki-yaki but some
    Japanese traditional local foods, like Tako-yaki, Okonomi-yaki and Kushkatsu. They are sometimes called the soul foods of Japan. Here is the brief
    explanation for these three foods.

    1) Tako-yaki
    Tako-yaki is a snack filled with pieces of octopus in a batter of flour , egg and soup stock. You can call them octopus dumplings or balls. “Tako” means
    octopus and “yaki” means grilled or broiled.
    2) Okonomi-yaki
    This word Okonomi-yaki means “cook just as you like” and you can use whatever you like as toppings, such as beef, pork, shrimp, squid and octopus.
    Okonomi-yaki is round shape and just like pancakes or pizza in shape mainly made from egg, flour and water.
    3) Kushi-katsu
    Kushi-katsu is skewered cutlet or deep-fried foods on a stick. “Kushi” means skewer and “katsu” means cutlet. Various kinds of foods are used for
    ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, squid, octopus and lots of kinds of vegetables.

    Actually, the western Japan including Osaka, Kobe and Himeji is called as “Home of such local soul foods”. You should give it a try and I am sure
    that you like them very much.

    I sincerely hope that I can be your tour guide this time in Kobe, Osaka and Himeji. If my guests said to me after the tour, “I have had a very good
    and pleasant time with you today. I hope I can come here again and name you as our guide”, which is my great pleasure. Moreover, I would be
    great honored if they say “I like Japan now thanks to you”.

    Looking forward to meeting you soon here.
    Doomo Arigato Gozaimasu!
    Yama

    Request Booking

    Jul 25, 2026
    Hdixjdixj
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka Local Food & Culture Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide
    Amazing Food Tour through Osaka
    We were taken…

    Jul 20, 2026
    Eric_W
    Viator review: Himeji Castle & Koko-en in 1 Day Tour with Licensed Guide
    Castle journey worth your time!
    Our tour with…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Diane_B
    Viator review: Kobe Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our tour guide Yama was amazing!!
    Our tour guide…

    Jul 4, 2026
    Navigator661725
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful time!
    We absolutely loved this tour. Yama was attentive, was…

  • Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Kinkaku-ji

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:10 Hotel Meet(@Hotel Kyoto)
    • 8:10-8:50 Transfer (by contracted vehicle; Hotel → Fushimi Inari Taisha)
    • 8:50-9:20 Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 9:20-9:40 Transfer (by contracted vehicle; Fushimi Inari Taisha → Gion/Hanamikoji)
    • 9:40-10:00 Stroll along Gion Hanamikoji
    • 10:00-10:30 Transfer (by contracted vehicle; Hanamikoji → Nijo Castle)
    • 10:30-11:30 Visit Nijo Castle
    • 11:30-12:00 Transfer (by contracted vehicle; Nijo Castle → Restaurant/Egao Gohan CoCo Hana (near Kinkaku-ji))
    • 12:00-12:50 Lunch
    • 12:50-13:00 Transfer (by contracted vehicle; Restaurant → Kinkaku-ji)
    • 13:00-13:30 Visit Kinkaku-ji
    • 13:30-14:00 Transfer (by contracted vehicle; Kinkaku-ji → Hotel)
    • 14:00 Farewell at the hotel

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like in Cherry Blossom Season? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. The schedule was originally tight, and because the meeting time was delayed by about ten minutes, I explained this to the guests, obtained their understanding to start walking a little earlier, and proceeded with the tour. We visited Fushimi Inari Taisha, strolled through Gion, saw Nijo Castle, and after lunch I took them to Kinkaku-ji. The cherry blossoms had begun to fall, but I believe the guests enjoyed the tour at the best timing of the cherry blossom season. When arranging lunch for this tour, I was able to take the guests to a restaurant that could properly accommodate their needs, so I believe they were satisfied with the meal as well. Some of the guests said they liked Nijo Castle and Kinkaku-ji, and others especially liked Kinkaku-ji. They were very pleased to have taken beautiful photos of Kinkaku-ji reflected in the Mirror Pond. During the drive between sites, we had a lively discussion about various countries' policies for addressing declining birth rates.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherHotel (Suiran Luxury Collection Hotel・Arashiyama)～Fushimi Inari Taisha0JPY
    Section 2OtherFushimi Inari Taisha～Gion Hanamikoji0JPY
    Section 3OtherGion Hanamikoji～Nijo Castle0JPY
    Section 4OtherNijo Castle～Restaurant (Egao Gohan CoCo Hana/near Kinkaku-ji)0JPY
    Section 5OtherRestaurant (Egao Gohan CoCo Hana)～Kinkaku-ji0JPY
    Section 6OtherKinkaku-ji～Hotel0JPY
    Total0JPY

    Tour Report by Michi

    My name is (Mr.)Michiharu Aioi and I worked at Electronic Manufacturing Company (Panasonic) for more than 40 years in charge of overseas sales.
    I learned a lot in these 40 years and now I would like to contribute to the promotion of mutual understanding with foreign countries being involved in tourism busines utilizing my long experience in my previous company. I will do my best to make each trip very fruitful for each foreign visitor.
    As for my language ability, in addition to English, I can speak Spanish which I used in my job and I can communicate with Chinese people with intermediate level. Finally It is my great pleasure if my activity could work in the mutual understang with foreign visitors. Thanks a Lot !

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    Jul 19, 2026
    Wander35832177180
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Kyoto temple tour
    Our Kyoto guided tour (Aioi Michiharu) was a…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Abby_M
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour. Highly recommend
    Michi our guide was excellent!…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Javier P
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto gems
    Michi was incredibly courteous and informative.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    Beth_D
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Tour and Guide
    Michi was an excellent tour guide! He…

  • Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ Kyoran Kyoka-tei
    • 10:20 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 12:00 Nishiki Market
    • 13:45 Ninna-ji Temple
    • 14:45 Nijo Castle
    • 16:00 Dismiss @ Kyoran Kyoka-tei

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Cherry Blossom Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. For most of them it was their first visit to Japan, and although one of the guests had stayed here a very long time ago, this was their first chance to sightsee at a relaxed pace. At Nishiki Market, at their request we arranged free time, and each of them enjoyed shopping and eating as they liked. One of the guests discovered a whisky shot bar and seemed to enjoy a tasting. At Ninna-ji Temple, which I had suggested, the Omuro cherry blossoms were beginning to bloom and the Somei-Yoshino cherry trees were in full bloom, and everyone was delighted. On the way back it began to rain, and they were glad that we were able to finish before it started.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Hiro

    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!

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    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…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:15 Meet @ Prince Park Tower
    • 8:40 Tsukiji (Fish Market ~ Outer Market ~ Honganji Temple)
    • 10:00 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 11:15 Maruzen Bookstore
    • 12:45 Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
    • 14:30 Disband @ Akabanebashi 7-Eleven

    Title: What Is a Private Cherry Blossom Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. One of the guests had Japanese heritage but did not speak Japanese. We were unable to make contact until two days before the tour, but once we connected, requests came in steadily, including dinner arrangements for the previous day and that day, as well as sourcing books as gifts for a family member studying Japan. The day before, I called a bookstore and had them set aside English editions of the "Kojiki" and the "Nihon Shoki." At the Hotel, the breakfast venue was crowded due to a group I had guided two days earlier, so we departed 15 minutes late. At the fish market, a tuna was laid out being butchered, and the guests were moved by the decorations at Hongan-ji temple celebrating the Buddha's birthday. The Imperial Palace and its gardens were the most beautiful they had been this year, so the guests were delighted. For cherry blossom viewing, I considered that Ueno Park, the Meguro River, and Chidorigafuchi had reached their peak two days earlier, so I chose Shinjuku Gyoen. This year I selected our destinations for cherry blossom viewing while watching both the blooming conditions and the weather, and every choice turned out to be right. One of the guests was interested in carp and loved the long-finned carp at the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, filming them on video.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOedo Line Akabanebashi～Oedo Line Tsukiji Market178JPY
    Section 2SubwayHibiya Line Tsukiji～Chiyoda Line Otemachi178JPY
    Section 3TrainJR Tokyo～JR Sendagaya178JPY
    Section 4SubwayOedo Line Kokuritsu-kyogijo～Oedo Line Akabanebashi220JPY
    Total754JPY

    Tour Report by Hideki

    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, Norway, 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

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    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…