Category: Uncategorized

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto in One Day: Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Nijo Castle

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel Meet
    • 9:00-9:50 Travel (City Bus; Karasuma-Gojo → Gojozaka)
    • 9:50-11:00 Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 11:00-11:20 Travel (City Bus; Gojozaka → Higashiyama-Shichijo)
    • 11:20-12:00 Visit Sanjusangendo
    • 12:05-12:50 Visit Chishaku-in Temple
    • 12:55-13:45 Lunch (Sato)
    • 13:45-14:10 Travel (Keihan Train; Keihan-Shichijo → Keihan-Sanjo, Subway; Sanjo-Keihan → Nijojo-mae)
    • 14:10-15:00 Visit Nijo Castle
    • 15:00 Tour Ends We said goodbye to our guests at the Nijo Castle keep ruins

    What's a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kiyomizu-dera, Nijo Castle, and More The guests were a group visiting from Europe. It was their first time in Japan. I took them to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Sanjusangen-do, Chishaku-in Temple, and Nijo Castle. We had originally agreed to visit Fushimi Inari Taisha after Chishaku-in, but during lunch it turned out that Fushimi Inari was already included in tomorrow's itinerary, so we arranged for them to visit Fushimi Inari the next day and I took them to Nijo Castle instead. One of the guests was very pleased with Nijo Castle, while another especially liked the garden at Chishaku-in, which was free of crowds and felt like a hidden gem. A notable stop on the tour was Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto's most celebrated temples, founded in the late 8th century and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is famous for its large wooden stage that juts out from the main hall, offering sweeping views over the city of Kyoto and the surrounding hills. The temple's name, meaning "pure water," comes from the Otowa Waterfall that runs beneath the main hall, where visitors can drink from streams said to bring health, success, and longevity. The approach to the temple is lined with traditional shops selling local crafts and sweets, making it a memorable introduction to Kyoto's rich cultural heritage.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKarasuma-Gojo / Keihan Bus~Gojozaka / Keihan Bus230JPY
    Section 2BusGojozaka / Kyoto City Bus~Higashiyama-Shichijo / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3TrainKeihan-Shichijo / Queen Line~Sanjo (Kyoto Prefecture)180JPY
    Section 4TrainSanjo (Kyoto Prefecture)~Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Total860JPY

    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 !

    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.…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Zojoji Temple & Harajuku

    Tokyo in One Day: Zojoji Temple & Harajuku

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at hotel
    • 10:40 Sakuradamon Gate, Nijubashi Bridge, Statue of Kusunoki Masashige
    • 11:40 Zojoji Temple
    • 12:10 Tokyo Tower, Lunch @ Food Court
    • 14:10 Meiji Shrine
    • 15:00 Harajuku
    • 16:00 Disband at hotel

    Title: What's a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting from Europe, with Tokyo as their final destination after Osaka, Kyoto, Kanazawa, and other places. They said they had seen Mount Fuji in Hakone the day before. There was no reply to my emails on the previous day and on the day itself, which made me a little worried, but when we met they turned out to be perfectly pleasant. They had already visited shrines and temples, but said these places made them feel calm, so they took their time looking around carefully. Today we were able to see Mount Fuji from Tokyo Tower. For lunch they requested something light, so they enjoyed burgers from a fast-food shop at a food court. At Meiji Shrine they drew omikuji fortunes. At Takeshita Street, they only looked at the entrance and decided not to walk through, then went shopping at a clothing store and a drugstore. Finally, I saw them off at the Hotel, and the tour ended. We talked about many things, including the differences between their home country and Japan. A notable stop on the tour was Meiji Shrine. Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in a large forested area in the heart of Tokyo, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Surrounded by a tranquil forest of around 100,000 trees donated from all over Japan, it offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. Visitors often draw omikuji fortunes, write wishes on wooden ema plaques, and observe traditional Shinto rituals, sometimes even witnessing a traditional wedding procession.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayNishi-Shinjuku~Kasumigaseki (Tokyo)210JPY
    Section 2SubwayHibiya~Onarimon180JPY
    Section 3SubwayKamiyacho~Meiji-Jingumae180JPY
    Section 4SubwayMeiji-Jingumae~Nishi-Shinjuku180JPY
    Total750JPY

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

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

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

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

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

  • Osaka in One Day: Nijo Castle & Arashiyama

    Osaka in One Day: Nijo Castle & Arashiyama

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet
    • 9:30-10:44 Travel (Osaka Metro; Osakako→Bentencho, JR; Bentencho→Kyoto Station)
    • 10:44-11:20 Travel (Kyoto Subway; Kyoto Station→Nijojo-mae)
    • 11:20-12:30 Visit Nijo Castle
    • 12:30-13:00 Travel (City Bus; Nijojo-mae→Waratenjin-mae)
    • 13:00-13:50 Lunch (@CoCo Hanana / near Kinkaku-ji)
    • 14:00- 14:50 Visit Kinkaku-ji
    • 14:50- 15:05 Travel (City Bus; Kinkakuji-michi→Ryoanji-mae)
    • 15:05-15:50 Visit Ryoan-ji
    • 15:50-16:05 Travel (On foot; Ryoan-ji→Keifuku Ryoanji Station)
    • 16:05-16:25 Travel (Keifuku Train; Ryoan-ji→Arashiyama)
    • 16:25-17:30 Visit Arashiyama (Bamboo Grove, Nonomiya Shrine, Togetsukyo Bridge)
    • 17:30 Tour ends at Arashiyama

    Title: What Does a Private Kyoto Day Tour from Osaka Cruise Port Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They mentioned that this was a commemorative trip. They were cruise ship passengers, and the tour began with a pickup at Osaka Port. I took them to Nijo Castle, Kinkaku-ji, Ryoan-ji, and Arashiyama (the Bamboo Grove, Nonomiya Shrine, Togetsukyo Bridge, and the Kimono Forest). The forecast had predicted rain from the afternoon, but during the tour the sky stayed cloudy and, contrary to expectations, we were able to avoid the rain. The guests said that each destination was wonderful, but that Kinkaku-ji left the strongest impression on both of them. They also seemed to enjoy lunch. A notable stop on the tour was Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion. It is a Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, and it is one of the most iconic and widely recognized sights in Japan. Originally built as a retirement villa for a shogun in the late 14th century, it was later converted into a temple and is now a designated World Heritage Site, drawing visitors with its striking reflection over the surrounding pond and garden.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOsakako~Bentencho180JPY
    Section 2TrainBentencho~Kyoto840JPY
    Section 3SubwayKyoto~Nijojo-mae230JPY
    Section 4BusNijojo-mae~Waratenjin-mae / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 5BusKinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus~Ryoanji-mae / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 6TrainRyoan-ji~Arashiyama (Keifuku Line)250JPY
    Total1,960JPY

    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 !

    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.…

  • Tokyo: Asakusa & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tokyo: Asakusa & Shibuya Scramble Crossing

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hotel Tokyu
    • 9:35 Asakusa (Skytree photo)
    • 11:10 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 12:10 Lunch @ Inataya Palace Building branch
    • 13:30 Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 15:00 Meiji Shrine
    • 16:00 Harajuku Takeshita Street
    • 16:30 Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • 16:55 Disband at Akasaka-mitsuke Station

    What Does a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, the Imperial Palace, and Meiji Shrine The weather was good, and the tour proceeded smoothly. All of the guests had PASMO or Mobile Suica, so we confirmed how to use them and got started. In Asakusa it was still early, and many shops had not yet opened, but there were already quite a lot of people. I explained the history and buildings of Senso-ji Temple and answered questions about religion. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, I was asked questions about the buildings. Since the guests had already seen ordinary nishikigoi carp in Asakusa, they were delighted to see the long-finned nishikigoi carp. After a lunch of soba, we went to Hamarikyu, but everywhere there were quite a number of international travelers. At Meiji Shrine there were many wedding ceremonies and Shichi-Go-San visits, and the guests enjoyed taking photographs. We parted ways on the train back from Shibuya. I received a tip.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTameike-sanno~Asakusa700JPY
    Section 2Free PassAsakusa~Takebashi0JPY
    Section 3TrainTokyo~Shimbashi160JPY
    Section 4Free PassShimbashi~Meiji-jingumae0JPY
    Section 5Free PassMeiji-jingumae~Shibuya0JPY
    Section 6Free PassShibuya~Akasaka-mitsuke0JPY
    Total860JPY

    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.

    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…

  • Kanagawa: Hokokuji Temple & Kotokuin

    Kanagawa: Hokokuji Temple & Kotokuin

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet @ Hotel
    • 10:20 Hokokuji Temple
    • 11:00 Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
    • 11:30 Komachi Street
    • 12:15 Hasedera Temple
    • 13:00 Kotokuin (Great Buddha of Kamakura)
    • 13:30 Lunch @ Juwari Soba Koga Kamakura Branch
    • 15:30 Dismissal @ Hotel

    What Is a Private Car Tour of Kamakura Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group from North America, visiting Japan for the first time. After sightseeing in Kamakura, they planned to depart the next day on a 12-day cruise tour. At Hokoku-ji Temple, they appeared impressed by the beautiful bamboo garden. At Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, they listened with great interest to explanations about the differences between shrines and temples, as well as the Kamakura Shogunate. At Hase-dera Temple, they seemed moved by the large statue of Kannon and the beautiful ocean view from the observation deck. At Kotoku-in, they showed interest in the sheer size of the Great Buddha of Kamakura. Since I accommodated the guests' wishes as requested, I believe they were satisfied. As this was a tour by private car, there were no transportation expenses to be reimbursed.

    I am Seizo Kamiuto, National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (English). I was born in Kagoshima City in Kyushu (Southern part of Japan) and grew up there until the graduation from a high school. I came to Tokyo to enter a University in Tokyo and since then, I have lived in Tokyo for more than 40 years and therefore I know Tokyo and its suburbs and Kagoshima City very well. After retiring from an IT company, I have been working as a Guide Interpreter of English since March 2018. I have guided many overseas guests to the popular sightseeing spots in Tokyo, Kamakura, Mt. Fuji area (Kawaguchiko Lake etc.), Hakone, Nikko, Yokohama, Kawagoe and Kagoshima and so on. I have received good reviews from many guests. I can explain the history and the culture of Japan in detail. I look forward to an opportunity to guide you in Japan. Thank you. Seizo Kamiuto

    Sep 27, 2026
    jonaJ5014ZK
    Walking tour of Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Seizo was a tremendously fabulous…

    Sep 11, 2026
    M7402TTsharonp
    Higly recommend
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Had an amazing tour with Seizi Kaminto.…

    Sep 8, 2026
    OnAir57127583503
    Amazing Experience with Kamakura Day Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    We had an excellent time with Seizo Kamiuto as our…

    Sep 4, 2026
    B2319ZKjoseo
    Pleasant stroll through HISTORY
    Tripadvisor review: Kawagoe Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    We had a great time learning about…

  • Aichi: Osu Kannon by subway and take a

    Aichi: Osu Kannon by subway and take a

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at the front desk of Dormy Inn Premium Nagoya Sakae
    • 9:10 Walk to Oasis 21 for a commemorative photo
    • 9:30 Arrive at Nagoya Castle by subway. Guest brings their own PASMO
    • Take the Me-guru (bus) departing at 11:02 to the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology
    • Take the Me-guru departing at 12:35 to Nagoya Station (the bus was delayed by about 15 minutes). Since I heard that the guest likes pork, we went to a tonkatsu restaurant on the 13th floor of the station building (Towers), but there was a 20-minute wait. We had lunch at a beer restaurant on the same floor. The guest had beer with their meal.
    • 14:00 Go to Osu Kannon by subway and take a stroll
    • 15:00 Saw them off as they left Osu Kannon by taxi

    What's a Private Day Tour of Nagoya Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nagoya Castle, the Toyota Museum, and Osu The guests were visitors from North America. Since one of them had some difficulty with their knee, I made sure to walk slowly and to use escalators and elevators whenever possible. Nagoya Castle was hosting an event with food stalls and was very crowded. We were able to look at several of the stalls. At the Toyota Commemorative Museum, the guests watched the car manufacturing process with great interest. In the Osu area, street performers were putting on shows in various places, and it was very busy with many people. Along the way, the guests stopped at a card shop, and both of them purchased several packs of game cards as souvenirs. At the end, they wished to return by taxi, so I guided them to a taxi and concluded the tour. A notable stop on the tour was the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology in Nagoya. The museum showcases the history and development of Toyota, from its origins in the textile machinery industry to its growth as an automobile manufacturer. Visitors can see working demonstrations of spinning and weaving machines as well as exhibits on car production technology, making it a popular destination for those interested in Japanese industry and craftsmanship.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassDonichi Eco Ticket~Within Nagoya City620JPY
    Total620JPY

    Gifu Prefecture, where I was born and raised, is located in the heart of Japan. It is home to many mountains exceeding 3,000 meters, and the historic Nakasendo (Samurai Road) runs through this dramatic landscape. Once a vital artery for travelers during the Edo period, the route still preserves the traditional atmosphere of that era, with many historical houses standing much as they did centuries ago. Walking along this path allows you to experience Japan’s original rural landscape—a distinct and refreshing contrast to the bustling former capitals of Kyoto and Nara.

    I also spent many years working in Nagoya, so I can guide you through the city with confidence. Nagoya is a treasure trove of historical landmarks, such as Nagoya Castle and Atsuta Shrine. Furthermore, the city is famous for “Nagoya-meshi,” a variety of delicious local specialties unique to the region.

    It is my great pleasure to introduce visitors to the depth of Japanese cuisine, history, and culture. Welcoming guests from all over the world is always a joy for me, and I truly look forward to guiding you and creating wonderful memories together.

    Jul 14, 2026
    wandahB6389XA
    Tripadvisor review: Nakasendo Magome to Tsumago Day Hike with Licensed Guide
    The Nakasendo Trail: A beautiful blend of nature and culture.…

    May 26, 2026
    adamkO4340OC
    Tripadvisor review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Trail Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great trail with a fantastic guide
    Excellent experience with…

    May 18, 2026
    rubia_k
    Viator review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Trail Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide
    Nakasendo Trail
    Our guide Taku Hasegawa was so knowledgeable…

  • Fukuoka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Fukuoka Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • Chuo Pier Cruiser Center→Fukuoka International Port Terminal→Hakata Station→Kido Nanzoin-mae Station→Nanzoin→Kido Nanzoin-mae Station→Hakata Station→Akasaka→Fukuoka Castle Ruins→Akasaka→Tenjin→Tenjin Underground Mall→Daimaru Department Store→Tenjin-minami→Kushida Jinja-mae→Kushida Shrine→Hakata Station→Hakata Port Terminal→Chuo Pier Cruiser Center

    A Private History-Focused Day Tour in Fukuoka: What Can You See? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were interested in history, and initially they had hoped to visit Nanzoin, Fukuoka Castle, Kushida Shrine, and Sumiyoshi Shrine. Since they had been to Kyoto before coming to Fukuoka, we decided that if any site had to be dropped, it would be Sumiyoshi Shrine, so we placed it as the final destination. On the day, there was actually a grand festival being held at Sumiyoshi Shrine, including "yabusame" (horseback archery). Because the facilities at Fukuoka Castle were closed, being the day after a holiday, I had also suggested skipping Fukuoka Castle and visiting Sumiyoshi Shrine first. However, the guests preferred the original plan, so we started at Nanzoin. Even though a cruise ship carrying around 2,800 passengers had arrived, there were relatively few people, which worked out just as the guests had hoped. I imagine that most of the crowds were concentrated at Sumiyoshi Shrine in the morning. In the end, due to time constraints, we were unable to visit Sumiyoshi Shrine and had to head back. Seeing the long line for taxis at Hakata Station taking a lot of time, I judged that it would be difficult to catch a taxi from Sumiyoshi Shrine. A notable stop on the tour was Nanzoin Temple. Nanzoin is famous for its enormous reclining Bronze Buddha statue, which is one of the largest bronze statues in the world, measuring about 41 meters in length. The temple is located in a peaceful, forested setting and attracts many visitors who come to see this impressive statue and to walk the quiet grounds. It is a well-known spiritual site in the Fukuoka area and offers a serene atmosphere that reflects traditional Japanese Buddhist culture.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1OtherChuo Pier Cruise Center/Nishitetsu Bus~Hakata Station (A・E・F)/Nishitetsu Bus260JPY
    Section 2TrainHakata~Kido Nanzoin-mae450JPY
    Section 3TrainKido Nanzoin-mae~Hakata450JPY
    Section 4SubwayHakata~Akasaka (Fukuoka Prefecture)260JPY
    Section 5BusAkasaka (Fukuoka Prefecture)~Tenjin210JPY
    Section 6TrainTenjin-minami~Kushida Jinja-mae210JPY
    Section 7TrainKushida Jinja-mae~Hakata210JPY
    Section 8OtherHakata Station (A・E・F)/Nishitetsu Bus~Chuo Pier Cruise Center/Nishitetsu Bus260JPY
    Total2,310JPY

    I am Masao. I live in Beppu in Oita..
    As I have been a high school teacher , I know a lot of schools. I can take you to high schools. You can see real Japanese education. If you are interested in Japanese education, please contact me.
    And I can take you to Japanese farms. If you want to visit schools or farms, please contact me more than two months before. I will arrange your trip in Oita. I will offer you special experiences in Japan.
    One of my hobbies is climbing mountains, I can guide you Kuju. Even in mid summer, the temperature is always under 25℃. It is comfortable to stay there. I recommend to go there during summer.
     When you come to Beppu, I will go to your hotel and plan your trip in this area.  I can suggest the best restaurant, souvenirs and destination for you.

  • Hyogo: Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum & Sawanotsuru Museum

    Hyogo: Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum & Sawanotsuru Museum

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Kobe Port Terminal
    • 10:45 at Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum (Hamafukutsuru and Kikumasamune only from outside)
    • 12:00 at Sawanotsuru Museum
    • 14:45 Disband at JR Sannomiya Station

    Title: What Is a Private Sake Brewery Tour in Nada, Kobe Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. Although I had emailed several times before the day without a reply, we finally confirmed the meeting point and a rough itinerary the day before via a messaging app. (They had not received the emails sent through the travel agency, nor the ones sent to the personal address they had provided.) I had been worried, but on the day we were able to meet on time without any issues. However, the guests did not seem to fully understand the itinerary, and I had some doubt as to whether they realized that today's tour was a visit to sake breweries. Still, they appeared interested in sake, so I explained the itinerary before starting and they understood. The first brewery we visited, "Hamafukutsuru," had been closed the previous day for a holiday, so its regular Monday closing day had shifted to Tuesday, and we could not tour it. The next place we visited, the "Kikumasamune Sake Brewery Museum," which used to be open every day, is now closed every Tuesday, so again we could not go inside. At the next stop, the "Hakutsuru Sake Museum," we were finally able to tour the interior. The guests toured with great interest and curiosity and listened intently to my explanations. I also received many in-depth questions. One of the guests came from a farming background and was knowledgeable about rice and fermentation, so I was grateful to gain a lot of information in return. Next, we visited the "Sawanotsuru Museum," which had not originally been included, and the guests toured it just as enthusiastically, enjoyed tastings, and purchased souvenirs. At this point, one of the guests realized they had left behind an insulated bottle somewhere. Checking the photos we had already taken, I thought it might be inside the "Hakutsuru Sake Museum," and when I contacted them, they confirmed they had it, so we immediately went back by taxi to retrieve it. Meanwhile, the guests, especially one of them, appeared very tired and wished to end the tour early and return to the cruise ship. Therefore, after receiving the insulated bottle, they decided to return by taxi directly, and we parted ways with a little over an hour remaining. It was very regrettable, as I had originally planned to guide them to a "Kobe beef" restaurant after the brewery tour. They also commented that they would very much like to visit Kobe again, if possible even during this trip. I presented them with a handmade drawstring pouch made by my sibling, which they were pleased to receive.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainPort Terminal~Sannomiya210JPY
    Section 2TrainKobe Sannomiya (Hanshin)~Uozaki200JPY
    Total410JPY

    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

    Sep 27, 2026
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  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • Hotel 9:30 → Sanjusangendo 10:20 → Kinkakuji 12:00 → Fushimi Inari 14:10 → Gojo 15:30

    Title: What Does a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Cover? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji and Fushimi Inari The guests were visiting from Europe and came out at 9:30. Since communication had not gone smoothly beforehand, I brought two different plans and explained them in the lobby before departure, letting the guests choose. This was their first long overseas trip of about two weeks, and they mentioned that Japan had been a place they had wanted to visit for a long time. It was also their first visit to Kyoto, so this time I presented a basic course covering Sanjusangen-do, Kinkaku-ji, and Fushimi Inari, and let them choose. All of these are memorable spots, and the guests seemed to enjoy them very much. I dropped them off at Gojo. A notable stop on the tour was Fushimi Inari Shrine. Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of Kyoto's most iconic shrines, dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice and prosperity. It is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form winding pathways up the forested slopes of Mount Inari. Visitors can walk through the tunnels of gates, each donated by individuals and businesses, and enjoy scenic viewpoints over Kyoto along the way. The shrine is also known for its numerous fox statues, as foxes are considered messengers of Inari.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGojo (Kyoto Municipal)~Kyoto220JPY
    Section 2BusKyoto Station Front / Kyoto City Bus~Museum Sanjusangendo Front / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 3BusMuseum Sanjusangendo Front / Kyoto City Bus~Kyoto Station Front / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 4TrainKyoto~Enmachi180JPY
    Section 5BusNishinokyo Enmachi (JR Enmachi Station) / Kyoto City Bus~Kinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 6BusKinkakuji-michi / Kyoto City Bus~Nishinokyo Enmachi (JR Enmachi Station) / Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 7TrainEnmachi~Inari200JPY
    Section 8TrainInari~Kyoto150JPY
    Section 9SubwayKyoto~Gojo (Kyoto Municipal)220JPY
    Total1,890JPY

    Hello, my name is Taka Sakai.
    I was born and brought up in Osaka until I graduated college.
    I worked for a chemical company for more than 30 years and was in charge of overseas marketing.
    There was also an opportunity to be assigned to the subsidiary in the US.
    I experienced a lot, traveled a lot both on business and my own during that time.
    I have been conducting tours as the certified guide mainly in the Kansai Area since 2017.
    Thank you very much for your interest in Japan.
    It is a great honor for me that I can accompany and support your new experiences here.
    I look forward to seeing you then.

    Thank you

    Taka Sakai

    May 13, 2026
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  • Kyoto: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Kyoto: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at Hotel Kyoto Nijo Premium
    • 10:50 to 11:40 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 12:30 to 14:00 Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • 14:30 Disband at Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    Title: What Is a Private Family Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests today were a group visiting from North America, a total group that included young children. The group had mistakenly believed that this tour included a vehicle, and upon learning that no car had been arranged, requested that a car be arranged immediately. I contacted the taxi companies I work with, but during a busy holiday period it was not possible to call a large taxi on short notice. In the end, we traveled from the Hotel to Kinkaku-ji by taking city buses, transferring along the way. On the crowded bus heading to Kinkaku-ji, we had three strollers lined up, which caused some inconvenience to the people around us. The next destination was Kiyomizu-dera Temple. I suggested we go by taxi, and we went in two cars. While exploring Kiyomizu-dera, the group decided to end the tour early and return to the Hotel. They returned to the Hotel by taxi. It was an early conclusion to the tour. A notable stop on the tour was Kinkaku-ji Temple. Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf. Originally built in the late 14th century as a retirement villa for a shogun, it was later converted into a temple and remains one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. The pavilion is set beside a reflecting pond surrounded by meticulously designed gardens, making it especially striking across the changing seasons.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusSenbon Kyunijo/Kyoto City Bus~Waratenjin-mae/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Section 2BusWaratenjin-mae/Kyoto City Bus~Kinkaku-ji-michi/Kyoto City Bus230JPY
    Total460JPY

    Personal data
    Born in : May 1st, 1957
    Hobby : Visiting scenic places,
    historic spots, Japanese
    gardens and old townscape
    Former career : Worked for electric
    company and engaged in
    international sales for
    about 40 years.
    Travel history in the former career :
    Visited about 20 countries about 200 times

    Career as guide interpreter
    Acquisition of guide license : 2016
    Career of guide : 8 years
    Genre of my specialty :
    Japanese historic structures such as
    temple, shrine, castle and garden.
    Area of guide : Kyoto, Nara, Osaka &
    Himeji

    Let’s enjoy Japan with me !!

    Dec 30, 2024
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