Category: Uncategorized

  • Gifu in One Day: Tsumago-juku

    Gifu in One Day: Tsumago-juku

    Nakasendo Magome & Tsumago in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet up @ Nakatsugawa Station
    • 09:10 Board bus (Nakatsugawa Station → Magome)
    • 09:40 Arrive at Magome & start trekking
    • 12:00 Lunch @ Ichikokutochi Tateba Chaya
    • 14:30 Arrive at Tsumago-juku
    • 15:30 Board bus (Tsumago-juku → Nagiso Station)
    • 16:00 Disband @ inside train at Nagoya Station

    What Is a Private Nakasendo Trail Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from Asia. They were traveling throughout Japan and had a strong interest in Japanese culture, particularly history and Japanese cuisine. Along the way, we had several opportunities to interact with local people, and everyone enjoyed spending time together. The guests asked questions not only about the Nakasendo but also about all sorts of things related to Japan, and they were very satisfied with the answers. After arriving at Tsumago-juku, they discovered a wooden souvenir they liked, and they enjoyed the tour to the very end, saying they would love to return to the Nakasendo again to enjoy local souvenirs and trekking.

    Click here for more details: Nakasendo Magome & Tsumago in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusNakatsugawa～Magome800JPY
    Section 2BusTsumago-juku～Nagiso300JPY
    Section 3TrainNagiso～Nakatsugawa660JPY
    Total1,760JPY

    Tour Report by Yoshi

    Welcome to Japan! My name is Ryota Tsuchiya, and I am honored to be your guide during your journey in Japan.

    With a deep passion for Japanese culture, history, and craftsmanship, I specialize in creating immersive travel experiences that go beyond sightseeing. My tours are designed to introduce you to the true essence of Japan—through hands-on experiences, engaging storytelling, and personal connections with local artisans and experts.

    I have lived and studied abroad, gaining a deep appreciation for cross-cultural exchange. This background allows me to bridge the gap between Japan and international visitors, making history and traditions more accessible and enjoyable for you.

    Based in Nagoya, I offer exclusive tours across central Japan, including Aichi, Gifu, Mie, and Shiga. Whether you are interested in exploring historic castles, learning traditional calligraphy, visiting artisan workshops, or experiencing local festivals, I guide each tour to match your interests and curiosity.

    My goal is to ensure that your journey is not only memorable but also meaningful. I want you to leave Japan with a deeper understanding of its culture and a collection of unforgettable experiences.

    Let’s embark on an extraordinary journey together. I look forward to sharing the wonders of Japan with you!

    Request Booking

    Jul 14, 2025
    wuschaefer
    A wonderful hike with stunning views
    Tripadvisor review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Trail Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a…

    Jul 11, 2025
    cindydZ5063DM
    Amazing
    Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    Yoshi was very knowledgeable, gracious and friendly. My day…

    Jul 8, 2025
    Amanda_P
    Nagoya
    Viator review: Nagoya Full-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
    The tour was amazing!!! Yoshi contacted us right away…

    Jul 4, 2025
    844roryb
    Nakasendo day hike
    Tripadvisor review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing walk along an ancient route…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Kinkaku-ji & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Kinkaku-ji & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:30 JR Kyoto Meet
    • 11:30-12:10 Travel (JR; Kyoto Station→Enmachi, City Bus; Enmachi→Warratenjinmae)
    • 12:10-13:00 Lunch (Egao Gohan CoCo Kana @ near Kinkaku-ji)
    • 13:10-14:00 Kinkaku-ji visit
    • 14:00-14:20 Travel (Taxi; Kinkaku-ji→Nijo Castle)
    • 14:20-15:10 Nijo Castle visit
    • 15:10-15:30 Travel (Taxi; Nijo Castle→Gion/Hanamikoji)
    • 15:30 Farewell in front of Gion Kaburenjo (the guest had reserved the Miyako Odori from 14:30)

    Title: What's a Private Day Trip from Tokyo to Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. It was their first time in Japan, and they came here after visiting Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, and Korea, planning a one-day trip to Kyoto during their stay in Tokyo. The bus from Enmachi toward Kinkaku-ji was full, and we had to let several buses pass, which raised concerns about falling behind schedule. However, since it was raining, the guests kindly covered the cost of taking a taxi from Kinkaku-ji to Nijo Castle and from Nijo Castle to Gion, so we were able to arrive at the Kaburenjo Theater in Gion, which the guests had requested, right on time. Since it was a 4-hour tour including lunch, we visited only Kinkaku-ji and Nijo Castle. The guests were very impressed by the magnificent Nijo Castle. I was grateful that they made the effort to come all the way from Tokyo for a day trip to see Kyoto. For their next visit, I recommended staying 3 to 4 nights in the autumn season.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto～Enmachi180JPY
    Section 2BusEnmachi～Watatenjinmae230JPY
    Section 3OtherKinkaku-ji～Nijo Castle0JPY
    Section 4OtherNijo Castle～Gion Hanamikoji0JPY
    Total410JPY

    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 !

    Request Booking

    Aug 4, 2026
    Elie_S
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Wonderful and informative walking tour with Michi
    We had a lovely…

    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.…

  • Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima

    Hiroshima in Half a Day: Miyajima

    Miyajima Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel meet
    • 10:20-12:00 Miyajima
    • 13:10 Disband at Hiroshima Castle

    What Is a 4-Hour Private Miyajima Tour from Hiroshima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe. Starting from Hiroshima City, I guided them on a 4-hour tour of Miyajima. As it was a perfect day for sightseeing, they took many photos on Miyajima. Enjoying local food was one of the highlights of their trip, and they happily ate momiji manju and grilled oysters. Although the original plan was to meet and drop off at their hotel, after Miyajima they said they wanted to visit Hiroshima Castle, so at the end I took them to Hiroshima Castle, where we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusTakaramachi-kita～Hiroshima Station240JPY
    Section 2TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 3FerryMiyajimaguchi～Miyajima Pier100JPY
    Section 4TrainMiyajimaguchi～Shin-Hakushima330JPY
    Section 5OtherShin-Hakushima～Johoku190JPY
    Total1,280JPY

    Tour Report by TO

    Hi! My name is Kazuhisa To. I was born in Nagasaki Prefecture and spent a total of approximately 17 years there. After graduating from university and completing graduate school, I moved to Hiroshima in 1984. Hiroshima has been my home base for more than 42 years, including approximately five and a half years during which I was posted to Germany and the United States. I worked as an engineer at Mazda Motor Corporation for 40 years. While working at Mazda, I earned a Ph.D. in Engineering through a doctoral program designed for working professionals at a national university. During the final five years of my career at Mazda, I was assigned to Hiroshima University, where I served as a Specially Appointed Professor and Deputy Director of a research center. In this role, I led the development of the center’s organizational and operational framework and advanced more than 20 industry–university collaborative research projects across four major research programs, contributing to regional revitalization. Living in Nagasaki, Hiroshima, Germany, and the United States has deepened my appreciation for the distinct histories and cultures of different regions and broadened my international perspective. Drawing on these experiences, I strive to offer tours that allow guests from around the world to feel comfortable and relaxed while enjoying a genuinely engaging experience. After retiring from Mazda at the end of March 2024, I embarked on a new chapter in my life as a licensed local guide in Hiroshima. In addition to renowned destinations such as Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima, I am delighted to introduce guests to Hiroshima’s history, culture, natural beauty, local cuisine, and everyday life, tailoring each tour to their individual interests and preferences. It is my sincere hope that every guest will enjoy a truly personal and memorable experience while discovering the authentic spirit of Hiroshima. I very much look forward to welcoming you to Hiroshima!

    Request Booking

    Sep 28, 2026
    anita2336
    The best time in Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    This was one of…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Mostew
    Private tour with To – Hiroshima / Miyajima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    We…

    Aug 30, 2026
    644lucys
    Fantastic guide, full and wonderful day.
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Today we had…

    Jul 21, 2026
    anza
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Excellent Walking Tour with Kazuhisa To
    We had a…

  • Miyagi in Half a Day: Shiogama Shrine & Tagajo Station

    Miyagi in Half a Day: Shiogama Shrine & Tagajo Station

    Sendai & Matsushima Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:10 Meet up @ Shiogama Shrine parking lot
    • 9:10 @ Shiogama Shrine
    • 9:50 @ Stroll around Shiogama City (Shiogama Kaido ~ Tanrokuen)
    • 10:27 Board at Hon-Shiogama Station
    • 10:37 @ Matsushima-Kaigan Station
    • 10:50 @ Stroll along Matsushima Kaigan Street (Godaido ~ Zuiganji Kaido ~ Matsushima Pudding ~ Kanrantei)
    • 12:33 Board at Matsushima-Kaigan Station
    • 12:49 @ Arrive at Tagajo Station
    • 13:00 Arrange taxis at the taxi stand in front of Tagajo Station & disband

    What Is a Private Cruise Excursion from Sendai Port to Shiogama and Matsushima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report I had been in regular email contact with this guest about the tour ever since being assigned in September, so when we finally met in person, we exchanged words like "We finally meet!" and "We've been in touch for over a year, haven't we?" (it was actually about eight months), and it felt as though we were longtime friends. Since heading into central Sendai from the pier at Sendai Port is quite far, I had suggested seeing the Shiogama cherry blossoms at Shiwahiko Shrine, which can only be seen at this time of year. The guest was delighted, saying, "The cherry blossoms are almost over, yet we can see them here. How gorgeous." Looking around, there were a few foreign tourists holding maps of Shiogama here and there. "They're on the same ship as us." It seemed everyone had come here having been recommended the cherry blossoms. The guest was quick to shift perspective, and rather than talking about long history, when I spoke about the background of the cherry blossoms in front of us, the guest showed great interest. As we walked down the shrine slope and strolled around the town, the guest took interest in the building of Tanrokuen, one of Shiogama's long-established shops dealing in tea utensils, founded in 1720. When we peeked inside, the guest's eye was caught by the beautiful ceramics. Since there was still time before the train to Matsushima, I tried to show the guest around the station area, but the guest said, "I don't have much cash on hand, so I'd like to stop at a bank or ATM." I took the guest to a bank in front of the station, but the teller said yen could not be withdrawn with a debit card. When I asked the guest further, they said that at the previous port of call they had gone to a convenience store to withdraw yen, so I took the guest to a convenience store and we were able to withdraw yen without any trouble. In situations like this, a convenience store is better than a bank. In Matsushima, we strolled around Godaido and the approach to Zuiganji Temple, stopped by a recently opened Matsushima pudding shop that caught our eye, and the guest enjoyed a Sendai strawberry pudding. At Kanrantei, the guest had matcha, but perhaps finding it bitter, left a little and said, "Well, the tea ceremony is a good experience." On the way back, we were able to catch an earlier train. At the station, some passengers from the same cruise ship happened to be there, and my guest invited the other cruise passengers, saying, "The Riviera? Let's take a taxi together," and we boarded from Tagajo Station before parting ways. The guest found everything we saw enjoyable and was very pleased.

    Click here for more details: Sendai & Matsushima Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHon-Shiogama Station～Matsushima-Kaigan Station199JPY
    Section 2TrainMatsushima-Kaigan Station～Tagajo Station240JPY
    Total439JPY

    Tour Report by Riko

    Hello! I’m Riko, your local guide. During the week, I work at a local university, but on weekends, I love to guide visitors like you. This year(2024) marks my 6th year as a guide, and I’m thrilled to continue sharing the beauty of Japan with you.
    I’m a certified Sake Navigator, so I have a wealth of knowledge about Japanese sake. Additionally, I’m well-versed in the gourmet scene of Sendai, Shiogama, and Matsushima, allowing me to tailor your tour to your culinary preferences!
    I look forward to creating a memorable tour experience for you, full of fun and lasting memories of Japan. Thanks for choosing me as your guide!

    Request Booking

    May 10, 2026
    Nate_K
    Viator review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fun Day in the bay!
    Be ready to walk briskly…

    Apr 30, 2026
    Tanakainmaui
    Tripadvisor review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Riko-san is the best guide!
    I originally booked with TripAdvisor,…

    Mar 31, 2026
    NHDBuilder
    Tripadvisor review: Sendai / Matsushima Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    GO WITH “RIKO” FROM JAPAN GUIDE AGENCY
    This is our…

    Oct 3, 2025
    P
    Peggy_M
    This was a great tour with Riko
    Viator review: Sendai / Matsushima Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Riko was…

  • 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

    • 1. 10:00 Meet up @ Hotel Asakusa
    • 2. 10:05 Travel: Subway, train
    • 3. 10:50 Stay @ Meiji Shrine
    • 4. 11:35 Travel: Train
    • 5. 12:00 Stay @ Marunouchi, Wadakura Fountain Park
    • 6. 12:30 Travel: Subway
    • 7. 13:00 Lunch @ Sansada
    • 8. 13:35 Stay @ Asakusa
    • 9. 15:00 Travel: Subway
    • 10. 15:10 Stay @ Ueno Park
    • 11. 16:35 Travel: Subway
    • 12. 16:50 Disband @ Asakusa Kannon-dori

    What Does a Private Tokyo Day Tour of Meiji Shrine, Asakusa, and Ueno Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from Europe. Since they had Suica cards, we used the JR Chuo Line for the round trip toward Harajuku to save time. The spots the guests wished to visit were three places: Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace, and Sensoji Temple in Asakusa. Because the East Gardens were closed that day, I was considering how to use the extra time, but during our stay in Asakusa I learned that the guests were both interested in goshuin (temple and shrine seal stamps), so I decided to guide them to some small shrines and temples within Ueno Park at the end. In addition to Ueno Toshogu Shrine, we were able to efficiently collect goshuin at five places: Hanazono Inari Shrine, Gojoten Shrine, Shinobazunoike Bentendo, and Kiyomizu Kannondo. It was also helpful that it did not take as long as at the Yogodo Hall of Sensoji Temple. After strolling through Ueno Park, I saw them back to Asakusa again before 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 1Free PassAsakusa Station～Kanda Station700JPY
    Section 2TrainKanda Station～Harajuku Station180JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku Station～Tokyo Station210JPY
    Section 4Free PassOtemachi Station～Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassAsakusa Station～Ueno Station0JPY
    Section 6Free PassUeno Station～Asakusa Station0JPY
    Total1,090JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in One Day: Kawaguchiko Station & Enter Tokyo Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Kawaguchiko Station & Enter Tokyo Station

    Mt. Fuji Day Trip from Tokyo in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 6:30　Meet at the hotel
    • 　　　Ticket issuing at Shinjuku Station, shopping at convenience store
    • 7:30　Board the Fuji Excursion
    • 9:15　Get off at Shimo-Yoshida Station and go to Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine
    • 10:30　To Kawaguchiko Station
    • 11:20　By bus to Narusawa Ice Cave
    • 11:50　Narusawa Ice Cave
    • 12:15　By taxi to the restaurant
    • 13:30　Restaurant
    • 14:20　To Lake Kawaguchi
    • 14:45　Lake Kawaguchi
    • 15:00　Board the Fuji Excursion from Kawaguchiko Station
    • 17:00　Arrive at Shinjuku Station, go to pick up luggage at the hotel
    • 17:30　Ticket issuing at Tokyo Station, go to a cafe
    • 19:20　Enter Tokyo Station
    • 19:30　See off the Shinkansen boarding and disband

    Title: What's a Private Day Trip from Tokyo to Mount Fuji Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group of four visiting from North America. They said they usually walk a lot, about 25,000 steps every day, so walking around the Mount Fuji area was no problem for them. I had been prepared for a very long line at Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine, but it was more crowded than lined up, with no real queue forming, so the guests were able to take photos and come back down quickly. Since this took less time than expected, we decided on the spot to visit Narusawa Ice Cave, which had been one of their requests. Some of the guests were quite large, so I imagine the narrow passages felt even tighter for them, but they were very excited. We took a taxi to a restaurant and enjoyed roast beef, a wagyu beef sandwich, and strawberry shaved ice. We then passed Kawaguchiko Station to visit Lake Kawaguchi before heading back and boarding the Fuji Excursion train for the return trip. After arriving at Shinjuku Station, we picked up their luggage at a hotel near the station and tried to issue their tickets to Kyoto, but the guests had forgotten their password and were becoming anxious. I looked into various options in Japanese and found that at the JR Central counter (Tokyo Station), tickets could be issued with a signature even without the password. On the train from Shinjuku Station to Tokyo Station, they seemed to remember their password, and we tried the ticket machine at Tokyo Station, but it displayed "Please inquire at the counter." In the end, it turned out that having taken a screenshot of the ticketing QR code was the problem (it apparently expires within a few dozen minutes), so at the counter they showed the updated QR code, received the tickets with a signature, and I was able to see them safely onto the Shinkansen.

    Click here for more details: Mt. Fuji Day Trip from Tokyo in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinjuku～Kawaguchiko8,060JPY
    Section 2TrainShimo-Yoshida～Kawaguchiko305JPY
    Section 3TrainKawaguchiko～Ice Cave740JPY
    Section 4TrainShinjuku～Tokyo360JPY
    Total9,465JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

    Hi, I’m Sam.
    I am happy to welcome you all to Japan.

    Since I was a child, my parents welcomed many international students into our home and I had many opportunities to interact with them. My mother is a translator, and I have always seen her guiding foreigners around Japan, so it was natural for me to start doing the same.

    I am good at guiding people to popular places such as Shibuya, Harajuku, Shinjuku, and Asakusa, as well as photogenic spots in the Tokyo metropolitan area. Since I was a child, I’ve watched anime like Pokémon and played Nintendo games, and I still buy around 100 manga comic books a month. I love shopping in Akihabara! I currently live in Urayasu City, Chiba, so close that I can see fireworks from Disneyland from my house every night.

    Please feel free to ask me anything!

    Request Booking

    Sep 26, 2026
    Carl_W
    Tokyo city tour custom
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Sam was very knowledgeable and…

    Sep 7, 2026
    782alessandrof
    Sam was amazing
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo in 1 Day from Yokohama: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    It was a very rainy day…

    Aug 24, 2026
    596vincentz
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Family-Friendly Customized Tour with Licensed Guide
    Sam was an star tour guide for us
    our Guide Sam was…

    Aug 10, 2026
    piperl686
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Honeymoon Tour in Tokyo
    We are so happy that…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Peace Park

    Hiroshima in One Day: Miyajima & Peace Park

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

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at the cruise ship terminal
    • 10:30 Miyajima
    • 14:00 Peace Park
    • 17:30 Disband at the cruise ship terminal

    Can You Do a Private Miyajima and Hiroshima Peace Park Cruise-Port Tour? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe arriving by cruise ship. I began waiting about 20 minutes before the meeting time at the cruise ship exit, holding a flag and a name board. However, even after the appointed time passed, the guests had not disembarked, so I emailed them and learned that they had actually disembarked more than 30 minutes before the meeting time, had already gone into the waiting lobby, and were looking for me. As a result, I was able to meet the guests about 7 minutes after the scheduled meeting time, and we missed the first shuttle bus. The guests seemed slightly dissatisfied at first, but we took a taxi to the nearest tram stop, then transferred to the tram and JR, and arrived at Miyajima earlier than planned. By that time the guests were in a much better mood. They visited Miyajima and the Peace Memorial Park (including the Atomic Bomb Dome and the museum), and we parted ways at the cruise ship terminal.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKaigandori～Hiroshima Station240JPY
    Section 2TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 3FerryMiyajimaguchi～Miyajima Pier100JPY
    Section 4OtherMiyajima～Peace Park1,100JPY
    Section 5TrainAtomic Bomb Dome～240JPY
    Total2,100JPY

    Tour Report by TO

    Hi! My name is Kazuhisa To. I was born in Nagasaki Prefecture and spent a total of approximately 17 years there. After graduating from university and completing graduate school, I moved to Hiroshima in 1984. Hiroshima has been my home base for more than 42 years, including approximately five and a half years during which I was posted to Germany and the United States. I worked as an engineer at Mazda Motor Corporation for 40 years. While working at Mazda, I earned a Ph.D. in Engineering through a doctoral program designed for working professionals at a national university. During the final five years of my career at Mazda, I was assigned to Hiroshima University, where I served as a Specially Appointed Professor and Deputy Director of a research center. In this role, I led the development of the center’s organizational and operational framework and advanced more than 20 industry–university collaborative research projects across four major research programs, contributing to regional revitalization. Living in Nagasaki, Hiroshima, Germany, and the United States has deepened my appreciation for the distinct histories and cultures of different regions and broadened my international perspective. Drawing on these experiences, I strive to offer tours that allow guests from around the world to feel comfortable and relaxed while enjoying a genuinely engaging experience. After retiring from Mazda at the end of March 2024, I embarked on a new chapter in my life as a licensed local guide in Hiroshima. In addition to renowned destinations such as Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima, I am delighted to introduce guests to Hiroshima’s history, culture, natural beauty, local cuisine, and everyday life, tailoring each tour to their individual interests and preferences. It is my sincere hope that every guest will enjoy a truly personal and memorable experience while discovering the authentic spirit of Hiroshima. I very much look forward to welcoming you to Hiroshima!

    Request Booking

    Sep 28, 2026
    anita2336
    The best time in Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    This was one of…

    Sep 23, 2026
    Mostew
    Private tour with To – Hiroshima / Miyajima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    We…

    Aug 30, 2026
    644lucys
    Fantastic guide, full and wonderful day.
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Today we had…

    Jul 21, 2026
    anza
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima & Miyajima in 1 Day: Private Tour, Licensed Guide
    Excellent Walking Tour with Kazuhisa To
    We had a…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Asakusa

    Tokyo in One Day: Tsukiji & Asakusa

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at Hotel colors Tokyo Yaesu
    • 8:55 Tsukiji
    • 10:10 Meiji Shrine
    • 11:10 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 11:50 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 13:30 Asakusa (Skytree photos)
    • 14:25 Disband at Asakusa Kappabashi Street entrance

    What Is a Full-Day Private Tsukiji, Meiji Shrine, and Asakusa Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Although I had prepared in case of thunderstorms, there was no rain at all, and the tour was completed without any trouble. At Tsukiji, the guests were fascinated by the fresh seafood and fruit. At Meiji Shrine, they let out sounds of amazement at the beautiful green tunnel of trees. There were several weddings taking place, and they took photographs. On Takeshita Street, the guests enjoyed crepes and browsed a variety of shops. The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace were quite crowded, but the guests could feel a sense of Japanese history. Senso-ji Temple was also very crowded, and the guests looked around various shops, though they did not make any purchases. The plan was to guide them from Kappabashi to Akihabara before finishing, but at the entrance of Kappabashi they mentioned that they would do some shopping and have a meal, and so the tour concluded there.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHatchobori～Tsukiji700JPY
    Section 2TrainTsukiji～Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 3TrainMeiji-jingumae～Otemachi0JPY
    Section 4TrainTakebashi～Asakusa0JPY
    Total700JPY

    Tour Report by Koba

    My name is Eiji Kobayashi (Mr.), and I will be your guide during your stay in Tokyo.
    Please call me Koba.
    Allow me to introduce myself. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter of Japan and an expert in Japanese history and culture, and also in nursing and health. I usually work as a Public Health Nurse (PHN) at a Public Health Center in Tokyo, and I hold a Registered Nurse (RN) license. Additionally, I have a Ph.D. in medical science.
    Born in 1957 and raised in Tokyo, I have worked for 33 years mainly in the research and development area for some pharmaceutical companies. Then, I changed my career to nursing and entered a university to obtain a PHN and RN license. I took the Licensed Guide for preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and volunteered in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2021.

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    Jul 21, 2026
    scottsD8777AR
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Great Touring Tokyo
    Koba is an excellent tour guide. We greatly…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Quest36994121691
    First visit to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    This was our first visit…

    Jul 8, 2026
    Χρονης Π
    A beautiful tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    It was a perfect experience…

    Jul 5, 2026
    I3699SBjonathanw
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    6hr Tokyo guide great experience
    Koba was so nice to my family…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Grand Front Osaka & Osaka Museum of History

    Osaka in Half a Day: Grand Front Osaka & Osaka Museum of History

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 14:00 　　　　The Ritz-Carlton Osaka 　Meeting point
    • 14:10~14:30 Grand Front Osaka stroll
    • 15:00~15:40 　Osaka Castle Park
    • 15:50~16:30　　Osaka Museum of History
    • 17:00~17:40 　Dotonbori　　Dismissal

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Osaka Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. We first went to the Umeda Sky Building, but as it was during the Golden Week holiday, there was a very long line, so we gave up and instead strolled around the Grand Front area. Walking through the new cluster of buildings and the vast park plaza near JR Osaka Station, the guests were impressed by the fresh green lawns and the flower beds. At Osaka Castle, we had various discussions about the history of Osaka and the history of Japan. We then visited the Osaka Museum of History, where they learned more about the history of Osaka in greater detail, and they were especially impressed by Japan's postwar recovery and economic growth. In Dotonbori, although it was very crowded, the guests enjoyed the downtown atmosphere of Osaka.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainOsaka～Osaka Castle Park180JPY
    Section 2SubwayTanimachi 4-chome～Namba240JPY
    Total420JPY

    Tour Report by shige

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

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

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

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

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

  • Nagano in Half a Day: Gondo Arcade Street & Zenkoji Temple

    Nagano in Half a Day: Gondo Arcade Street & Zenkoji Temple

    Nagano Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    April, 2025

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:30 Meet at hotel
    • 12:40 Gondo Arcade Street
    • 12:45 Nagano Aioiza Roxy
    • 13:00 Zenkoji Temple
    • Daihongan Treasure Hall Sutra Repository Sanmon Gate Inner Sanctuary
    • 15:00 Zenkoji Daikanjin Zazen meditation experience (interpretation 1h)
    • 16:30 Disband at hotel

    Title: What Is a Private Nagano City Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Zenkoji and a Historic Cinema The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from North America. I took them to Nagano Prefecture's oldest cinema, established in the Meiji era, so they could experience its history. The guests had a connection to a film currently showing, and seemed delighted to come across its poster. At Zenkoji Temple, I recommended a zazen meditation experience in advance. Since they meditate regularly, they gladly accepted. They were well versed in the proper etiquette, and it seemed they enjoyed a wonderful time away from the hustle and bustle. [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.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusNagano Station～Gondo190JPY
    Section 2BusZenkoji Daimon～Nagano Station190JPY
    Total380JPY

    Tour Report by Emi

    Nice to meet you. My name is Emi F., and I am a licensed guide interpreter specializing in English. I was born and have lived and worked in Nagano, where I am especially knowledgeable about the northern, eastern, and central regions of the prefecture. After retiring early from a career in teaching, I began working as a guide interpreter in 2021. Since then, I have had the pleasure of guiding many visitors to some of my favorite places, including Nagano, Matsushiro, Togakushi, Matsumoto, Azumino, Yamanouchi, Obuse, Nozawa-onsen, Suzaka, and Karuizawa, among others. I have a deep appreciation for the diverse foods harvested in Nagano and am committed to providing a flexible and enjoyable experience for my guests. Additionally, upon request, I can also guide you in Kanazawa, Nagoya, Nara, and Kyoto. I look forward to the opportunity to meet you and to share a memorable and enjoyable tour together.

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    Mar 21, 2026
    Cengiz_S
    Viator review: Nagano All Must-Sees 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Recommend this tour without any hesitation!
    We’re really enjoyed this…

    Apr 3, 2025
    R
    Robert_C
    Emi was a great guide who…
    Viator review: Nagano All Must-Sees 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Emi was a…

    Jun 8, 2024
    James_M
    Beautiful afternoon with a private tour of Nagano!
    Viator review: Nagano All Must-Sees Half Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We…