Category: Uncategorized

  • Kobe Customized Private Tour by Car

    Kobe Customized Private Tour by Car

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 09:00 Meet @ Kobe Port Terminal
    • 2. 09:40 @ Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
    • 3. 11:30 @ Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden
    • 4. 12:30 Lunch @ The Veranda Kobe (Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden)
    • 5. 13:30 @ Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum
    • 6. 15:00 Dismissal @ Nankinmachi Shuttle Bus Stop (next to Daimaru)

    What Is a Private Day Tour of Kobe from the Cruise Terminal Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group from Oceania. We met at the Kobe Port Terminal, and then visited the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, and the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum, before ending the tour at the shuttle bus stop bound for the Kobe Port Terminal, located near Nankinmachi and the Kobe Motomachi Shopping Street. The weather was fine today, though it felt a little cold at the Maiko Marine Promenade. Even so, the guests enjoyed the view of the sea from the round wooden bridge 47 meters above the water. At the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, it became pleasantly warm, and the guests enjoyed beer and champagne at the outdoor tables. At the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum, they learned about the sake production process both past and present, and then enjoyed a tasting. Afterward, we headed to the Kobe Motomachi Shopping Street, where the guests wished to explore on their own, so I took them to the shuttle bus stop and ended the tour. The guests were delighted.

    Hello, my name is Norio Oki, a Government-Certified Tour Guide in Japan.
    I specialize in guiding visitors through the beautiful and historic regions of Himeji and Kobe.

    My expertise includes Japanese history, traditional culture, castles, and sake. I enjoy sharing not only facts, but also the stories and spirit behind each place.

    In Himeji, I offer guided tours of Himeji Castle, Kokoen Garden, Shoshazan Engyoji Temple, and Nadagiku Sake Brewery.
    In Kobe, I guide guests through the Nada Sake Breweries area, Mt. Rokko, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, Harborland, Meriken Park, the Kitano District, Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, and the lively Motomachi Shopping Street.

    Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or local experiences, I will create a personalized tour tailored to your interests.

    If you’re planning to visit Himeji or Kobe, I would be delighted to be your guide.
    I look forward to meeting you soon!

    Jul 7, 2026
    77guye
    The best way to experience Himeji Castle
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    What a great way to…

    May 30, 2026
    karenpG5549XU
    Loved our tour
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a great tour with Norio, would highly…

    May 28, 2026
    TrailBlazer741528
    Kobe Variety.
    Tripadvisor review: Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our delightful guide, Norio, was knowledgeable and a master at…

    May 23, 2026
    sarahpR5911DJ
    Himeji castle with Norio
    Tripadvisor review: Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We learnt lots about Himeji castle and it…

  • Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Kiddy Land

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Meiji Shrine & Kiddy Land

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at MIMARU Tokyo Shinjuku
    • 9:20 Purchase Welcome Suica at JR Shinjuku Station
    • 9:50 Meiji Shrine
    • 10:30 Takeshita Street & mipig cafe
    • 11:20 Lunch at Kura Sushi Harajuku
    • 12:30 Kiddy Land
    • 13:00 Disband at Takeshita Street

    Title: What's a Family-Friendly Private Tour of Tokyo (Meiji Shrine, Harajuku & Takeshita Street) Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. We arranged the details in advance by email, and since they wanted a tour that everyone could enjoy, I suggested visiting a micro pig cafe on Takeshita Street after Meiji Shrine. The group had been looking forward to it, and they enjoyed the 25-minute course. Afterward, they experienced conveyor-belt sushi at a sushi restaurant for the first time and were delighted. One of the guests was not fond of fish but found the tuna delicious and enjoyed it. After lunch, since they wanted to buy a notebook for collecting stamps, we went to a toy and character goods store. It turned out to be a perfect shop for the group, with items such as Pokémon and Mario, and they enjoyed shopping there. As the ending time approached, we returned to Takeshita Street and parted ways there. The group seemed very pleased with the tour.

    Hello! My name is Ayaka.
    I originally come from Osaka, but now live in Saitama . I have a 19-year-old daughter and a 16-year-old son.
    My hobbies are cooking, baking sweets, playing the piano and watching movies.

    On weekdays, I work as a part-time English teacher at a boys’ junior high school and a high school. Since 2023, I have started working as a tour guide on weekends and long vacations. It is mainly private tours for small groups.

    I strongly believe that it is my calling to tell the greatest points of Japan to many foreigners. Through my guiding, I will do my best to give you as good an impression of Japan as possible.

    Mar 28, 2026
    Destination424937
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Japan
    Ayaka was knowledgeable and she took us to some historical highlights of Tokyo .

    Mar 19, 2035
    L9685HWdianan
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing Tokyo Tour with Ayaka ? Kind, Knowledgeable & Memorable Experience
    We…

    Oct 10, 2025
    Maxkerry
    Great day in Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    An excellent day with Ayaka in Tokyo. She…

    Oct 4, 2025
    D
    Donna_S
    Private tour of Tokyo with Ayaka of Japan Guide Agency
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very…

  • Osaka in One Day: Plum Grove & Ukiyo-e Museum

    Osaka in One Day: Plum Grove & Ukiyo-e Museum

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Hotel New Otani
    • 9:20 Plum Grove
    • 10:00 Osaka Castle
    • 11:00 Ren Machiya
    • 11:30 Kuromon Market
    • 12:00 Shinsekai
    •    Udon and Kushikatsu Lunch
    • 13:30 Ukiyo-e Museum>Hozenji Temple>Dotonbori>Takashimaya
    • 15:00 Hotel New Otani

    What Is a Private Osaka Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Osaka Castle, Kuromon Market, and Shinsekai The guests visiting today were from North America. I had received information in advance from the previous guide, which allowed us to meet up smoothly. The weather was wonderful and the plum blossoms were in full bloom, so the guests were very pleased. Since they were staying at a Hotel, I had considered skipping the castle, but they preferred the castle over the Sky Building, so we went to Osaka Castle together. Afterwards, at Kuromon Market, they immediately enjoyed strawberries and fruit mochi. They also bought some dried fruit. We planned to have udon for lunch at an udon shop in Shinsekai, but unfortunately it was closed, so we had udon and kushikatsu at another restaurant. After that, we played smart ball in Shinsekai, and in Namba we visited an ukiyo-e museum. We then returned to the Hotel by taxi. Being their twelfth day in Japan, the guests understandably said they were tired, but they told me they were very satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTanimachi 4-chome~Matsuyamachi190JPY
    Section 2TrainMatsuyamachi~Nippombashi190JPY
    Section 3TrainNippombashi~Ebisucho190JPY
    Section 4TrainDobutsuen-mae~Namba190JPY
    Total760JPY

    Bye bye smart phone!! Let’s enjoy Japan without bothering to check up your phone all the time with not AI but a local guide like me. Hi, my name is Mimmy. You may think this sounds like a kitten’s name.
    I use this nickname because it sounds cute and easy to remember. However,
    I actually look rounded, a middle aged woman more like a yellow character of M&Mchocolate, which reminds you of my name easily when you see me.
    I was born in Osaka, went to school in Kobe, went to work in Kyoto and married but still live in Osaka. I am a local, native Osakan. My 3 children are all grown up and live separately except one son. Now I live with one son and a husband in suburbs of the Osaka city.
    I like travelling, walking around the town and anything new.
    I got my guide license in 2017 and started guiding after that. I wasn’t able to work during Covid period but start guiding in 2022 again. I guide Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Kobe and have experienced more than100 tours including bus tours.
    I would like to tell you about the itineraries I usually have in each area.
    In Osaka, we usually go to Osaka castle, Shinsekai and Dotonbori Namba area.
    I think most important part you should see is Dotonbori Namba in Osaka.
    This place is vibrant , energetic, full of 3D signs and different from any other place in Japan.
    In Kyoto, we cannot see all famous sightseeing spots in one day.
    It will be better to visit each area respectively. I recommend guests who come to Kyoto first time to visit East area, Kiyomizu Temple>Sannenzaka>Ninenzaka>Ishibeikouji>Yasaka shrine> Gion area. This area has an atmosphere of traditional old Kyoto. The most Kyoto like places which suit Kimono. You can rent Kimono in a lot of places around here.
    The second place I recommend you is West area: Golden temple and Arashiyama area where Bamboo forest , Tenryuji temple, mountains and a river. There are several nice gardens in this area. If you want to enjoy the nature quietly, you
    should come here when it is not crowded (Winter is the most quiet)
    In Nara which used to be a capital even older than Kyoto, we visit Todaiji Temple where a huge Buddha is sitting inside of one of the largest wooden hall and you can play with deer everywhere in Nara. Naramachi: a small town in this area is a local place where small interesting shops are.
    In Kobe, a port city, you can visit Japanese Sake breweries, Herb garden and the top of Mt.Rokko for viewing Kobe city. A small China town is there, too.

    Now I bet you want to leave home to explore somewhere else you do not know.
    Not only going to somewhere else, we can help you to do several experiences: making tea, making Japanese sweet, making Takoyaki(food), wearing Kimono, making food samples, attending a tea ceremony, throwing Shriken like Ninja, Using bow and arrow like Samurai, , , ,
    I am very happy indeed if I can help you find things impressive enough and have once in a life time experience during our tour.
    I am looking forward to sharing a good time with you.

    Mar 24, 2025
    Jennie_N
    Ask for Mimmy
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A must if visiting the first time. Will save…

    Mar 15, 2025
    Eric B
    Wonderful Osaka castle and tour
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 6hr Private Walking Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Mimmy was a wonderful…

    Mar 12, 2025
    williampP2709MA
    Amazing time in Osaka with Mimmy
    Tripadvisor review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Mimmy was an amazing tour guide!…

    Oct 30, 2024
    Niaz_M
    Great choice if you have limited time in Kyoto
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Daikoku Pier & Shibuya Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Daikoku Pier & Shibuya Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 14:00 Meeting place: Yokohama Port Daikoku Pier
    • 14:15 Daikoku Pier
    • (Taxi/paid by guest)
    • 14:45 Depart Sakuragicho Station
    • (JR Keihin-Tohoku・Negishi Line)
    • Yokohama Station
    • (JR Tokaido Main Line・Ueno-Tokyo Line)
    • 15:15 Arrive Tokyo Station
    • Tokyo Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • Nijubashi Bridge
    • 16:15 Depart Otemachi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
    • Nihonbashi Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 16:45 Arrive Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Shin-Nakamise Shopping Street
    • Lunch: Kura Sushi
    • 18:15 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • 19:00 Arrive Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Tokyu Food Show
    • 19:45 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line)
    • Yokohama Station
    • (JR Keihin-Tohoku・Negishi Line)
    • 20:30 Sakuragicho Station
    • 20:30 Dismissal: Sakuragicho Station

    Title: What Can You See in Tokyo During a Cruise Ship Stopover in Yokohama? A Licensed Guide's Private Tour Report The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. This visit was part of a round-trip cruise between Asia and Yokohama, and the goal was to enjoy Tokyo sightseeing while the cruise ship was docked at Yokohama Port. They had arrived after a series of flights and boarded the cruise ship, then reached Yokohama Port after calling at Kobe Port and Osaka Port. Their request was: "Within the limited time, we would like to visit as many notable spots as possible." It was a sunny day, warm enough to feel hot during the tour. First, we went to Tokyo Station, then walked to the Imperial Palace. We started with the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace and took a stroll there. A few early-blooming cherry trees were in bloom, and we took commemorative photos in front of them. I explained topics such as "from the Edo period to the Meiji era," "the Meiji Restoration," "why Edo Castle became the Imperial Palace," and "an overview of the current Imperial family." The guests remarked, "The pine trees are beautiful," and asked questions such as "Does the Emperor really live in here?" and "Does the Emperor hold any political power?" We also took commemorative photos in front of the Nijubashi Bridge. We then moved to Asakusa. I explained "Sensoji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo," "what a five-story pagoda is," and "the difference between Buddhism and Shinto." The guests asked questions such as "Do all Japanese people believe in Buddhism?" "What kind of teaching is Buddhism?" and "What kind of teaching is Shinto?" Both Nakamise Shopping Street and Shin-Nakamise Shopping Street were as crowded as ever. They purchased three pairs of "tabi" socks as souvenirs. The guests requested, "We would definitely like to experience conveyor-belt sushi at least once," so we went to a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant. They mainly tried tuna, salmon, and squid. They said, "It was a novel experience. It will make a good story to share back home." They also mentioned, "There is only one Japanese restaurant back home, but it does not serve sushi." We then moved to Shibuya, where I explained "the history of Shibuya." We walked across the Scramble Square area and took commemorative photos in front of the Hachiko statue. The guests said, "We would like to see a Japanese supermarket," so we visited a food hall. They commented, "All Japanese people are polite," "There is no litter on the streets," "Japanese public restrooms are clean and pleasant," and "The railways back home are often delayed, and the service is not good." I saw them off at Yokohama's Sakuragicho Station, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainSakuragicho Station~Tokyo Station571JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi Station~Asakusa Station178JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa Station~Shibuya Station252JPY
    Section 4TrainShibuya Station~Sakuragicho Station483JPY
    Total1,484JPY

    Guiding career:
    Guide work started in July 2022. A guide focused on FIT compliance.
    FY2022 results: 17 cases, FY2023 results: 97
    Destinations: Various places in Tokyo, Hakone, Kamakura and Nikko
    As a recent group travel record, in October 2023, we have a track record of guiding a group of 33 people from Singapore to Narita Airport transfer plus sightseeing in Tokyo.
    Self-introduction:
    In the past, I was stationed in Canada, the United States, and Mexico as an expatriate of a Japanese bank for over 11 years.
    Since I have been mainly involved in the financing business in the United States for a long time, I think I am able to provide interpretation and translation services related to business and finance.
    I am a certified CPA in the United States.
    In addition, for three years from April 2016, I will be engaged in Japanese-English translation work (part-time), and I can also handle translation work.
    Although I don’t have a qualification in Spanish, but I think I can handle day to day conversation in Spanish without any problems.
    My hobby is trekking and from time to time, take a walk around mountains near Tokyo like Mt. Takao, Tanzawa, etc. I think it is possible to provide tourist information here as well.
    Since April 2015, I have been working as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tourism Volunteer and Tokyo Metropolitan Disaster Prevention Volunteer.
    One more, I have a separate house near Asuka Village, Nara prefecture, and I stay there for a total of about 30 days every year and have been enjoying sightseeing personally in the vicinity. Therefore, I think in the Kansai region, especially in Nara, Asuka, Yoshino, Koyasan, Kumano Kodo, etc., where I think I will be able to tour guide with confidence.

    Jul 21, 2026
    Christelle_G
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour guide
    Masa san is extremely knowledgeable and…

    Jul 1, 2026
    97TexAg
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Amazing day in Tokyo
    Masa was our tour guide. Masa was an…

    Jun 2, 2026
    Tagare S
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour and guide!
    This is a great tour, and our…

    Jun 1, 2026
    Lisa_A
    Viator review: Private Tokyo Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Adler Family Tour
    Our tour with Masa was…

  • Kyoto: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Kyoto: Kinkaku-ji Temple & Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Hyatt Place Kyoto
    • 9:20 Kinkaku-ji Temple
    • 10:40 Nijo Castle
    • 12:15 Ukiya Pontocho Main Store
    • 13:00 Gion Tatsumi Bridge (drive through Hanamikoji Street)
    • 13:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 15:10 Disband at Hyatt Place Kyoto

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji, Nijo Castle, and Fushimi Inari Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. They were traveling through several destinations including Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Tokyo. It was a warm, cloudless, and windless day, making it perfect for the tour. Everywhere was relatively uncrowded, so we were able to take our time. Because there was no wind, Kinkaku-ji was beautifully reflected in the pond. I was also able to explain Nijo Castle at a relaxed pace. Lunch was very well received by the guests as well. Neither Tatsumi Bridge nor Fushimi Inari Taisha was very crowded, so we could take photos at our leisure. I believe the guests enjoyed themselves.

    Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

    Jul 25, 2026
    135ulrikh
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Half-day with private guide in Kyoto
    We spent half a day…

    Jul 24, 2026
    J6711TVnancyb
    Tripadvisor review: Japan Guide Agency
    Family Fun Day in Kyoto with young children
    Kaeko Tanigawa was fantastic at helping us create…

    Jul 13, 2026
    elizabethtW414DU
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Kyoto Private Tour
    Kaeko was absolutely amazing from start…

    Jul 12, 2026
    johnkE8649IH
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent Kyoto Day Tour
    We had a wonderful experience touring Kyoto…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Marunouchi South Exit Bus & Asakusa Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Marunouchi South Exit Bus & Asakusa Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet @ Hotel
    • 9:20 Marunouchi South Exit Bus Stop
    • 9:40 Tsukiji 3-chome Bus Stop
    • Tsukiji Outer Market, Fish Market, Restaurant Marushu
    • 10:50 Tsukiji 3-chome Bus Stop
    • 11:00 Ginza 4-chome Bus Stop
    • Mitsukoshi, Renga Street
    • 11:50 Ginza Station
    • 12:20 Sendagi Station
    • Yanaka Ginza
    • 13:20 Nippori Station
    • 13:40 Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Tourism Center, Drugstore
    • 15:00 Dismissal @ Asakusa Station

    What's a Private Food-Focused Tour of Tsukiji and Asakusa in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America. They wanted above all to enjoy the food, and at Tsukiji we were able to buy fresh kama-toro tuna at a fish market, which we ate at the same facility. The guests also liked sea urchin, but there was no piece of just the right size, so I asked at a specialty sea urchin shop and they told us about a restaurant in the outer market, where we did a sea urchin tasting. It was a shop that at first glance looked closed, but we were lucky enough to be let in, and the guests were delighted to have found such a hidden spot. Finally, in Asakusa, I was asked to interpret for some shopping, and with various advice from a beauty consultant, the guests were able to purchase Shiseido cosmetics, with which they also seemed very satisfied.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusMarunouchi South Exit Bus Stop~Tsukiji 3-chome210JPY
    Section 2BusTsukiji 3-chome Bus Stop~Ginza 4-chome Bus Stop210JPY
    Section 3SubwayGinza Station~Sendagi Station180JPY
    Section 4TrainNippori Station~Asakusa Station330JPY
    Total930JPY

    Hi there! Thank you so much for hitting my page!
    I’m Yuriko, but please call me Lily!
    I’m a qualified guide and interpreter, proud to be awarded as one of the finalists of Japan guide awards 2025.

    I have conducted over 100 tours a year since March 2024, with more than 90% of my clients awarding a five-star rating.

    I love Japanese food(eating and cooking!), cultures such as traditional arts and crafts, and so much more! I’ve always explored places seeking new things and love to share them with you.

    I was born and raised in Tokyo(for over 40 years!) but used to live in the U.S. for a couple of years as a child.
    I am proud to be able to introduce the charms of Japan from multiple perspectives based on my experience of interacting with people from many different nationalities.

    I am happy to tailor an original plan or to arrange your bucket list advancing it to a better option.
    The following is my contact information:
    lilyjapanguide@gmail.com

    I’m looking forward to guiding and sharing the excitement of Japan!!

    Sep 17, 2025
    785hongc
    Wonderful 6 hour Tokyo tour with Lily in September
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had a…

    Sep 16, 2025
    H
    Hong_C
    A wonderful day tour of Tokyo in September
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Best relaxed educational…

    Jul 18, 2025
    Venture26940872209
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lilly was an excellent guide .. lots of communication before the visit…

    Jul 1, 2025
    michaellG938KC
    Lily is the best. Highly recommended
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lily is an amazing guide and…

  • Hiroshima: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & National Memorial Hall

    Hiroshima: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & National Memorial Hall

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 10:00 Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
    • 12:00 National Memorial Hall
    • 13:30 Disband at the Atomic Bomb Dome

    Tour Report Date: March 2025 Locations Visited: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, National Memorial Hall Guests: The guests Weather: Sunny Experiences: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park : Atomic Bomb Dome : National Memorial Hall for the war dead Details: The guests were visiting from North America. Beforehand, I wanted to know the arrival information for their Shinkansen, so I asked discreetly along with a message, but did not receive a reply. Since some guests may feel uncomfortable if asked too persistently, I prepared for the worst case and told them I would be waiting in front of the Shinkansen ticket gates. Just before their arrival, a photo of their Shinkansen ticket was sent to me via a messaging app, which put me at ease. One of the guests burst into tears the moment they came out of the central exhibition hall. I had them sit on a bench for a while and waited for them to calm down. It was a day that made me feel anew the powerful impact of the museum. Getting used to things can be a frightening thing, and I was reminded once again that if my sensitivity as a guide becomes dull, I cannot truly stand alongside my guests.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusHiroshima Station~Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park240JPY
    Total240JPY

    Originally, I’m a cycling guide doing cycling tours all over Japan.
    But, already done Hiroshima & Miyajima tour more than 400 times.
    I traveled many countries in my younger days. I traveled Europe, US, China, India, US, Mexico, Peru Australia, NZ, and so on.
    I decided to use this experience to become a guide.
    I’m afraid but no tipping required, because cycling guides are not allowed to have tipping in my association. And you do not need to pay for my lunch, because my lunch is prepared by our group.
    Please do not hesitate to ask me anything, I’ll change the plan according to your requests.
    Thank you for your understanding and please stay connected.

    Jun 1, 2026
    John_W
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    A top day with a top guide
    My wife…

    May 27, 2026
    Annabelle_C
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Hiroshima in a day
    Yuji was a great communicator…

    May 12, 2026
    satishp656
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    HIROSHIMA HALF DAY TOUR
    Yuji is a warm, knowledgeble…

    May 10, 2026
    StephanieB6076
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Incredible Experience
    We had an incredible experience visiting Hiroshima…

  • Kyoto: Fushimi Inari & JR Kyoto Station by city bus

    Kyoto: Fushimi Inari & JR Kyoto Station by city bus

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet at Hotel
    • 09:05 Itinerary explanation and about the history of Kyoto
    • 09:40 Departure
    • 10:15 Fushimi Inari
    • 12:15 Kinkaku-ji
    • 13:50 Daisen-in (Daitoku-ji)
    • 15:45 Gion stroll (Tatsumi Bridge ~ Shinbashi ~ Chugen-ji ~ return to Pontocho)
    • 16:45 Head to JR Kyoto Station by city bus
    • 17:15 Disband at JR Kyoto Station

    Title: What's a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan and Kyoto for the first time, and they were interested in everything. They devoted so much time to taking photographs that I almost wondered if photography was their passion, yet at the same time they listened very intently to my explanations, which made guiding them truly rewarding. Their curiosity was endless: history, religion, and food, of course, but also what the lives of geiko and maiko are like in the world of Gion, the culture behind the "regulars only" custom, wabi-sabi and Zen Buddhism, the names of the north-south and east-west streets of Kyoto and how they are read, why Kyoto has only two subway lines, the building height restrictions, why there are no regulations on utility poles, and the history of roji alleyways. They enjoyed comparing each of these points with the culture of their own region and explaining the comparisons back to me. At Daisen-in, where matcha and sweets are served, I introduced the very basics of the tea ceremony.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 2BusShijo Kawaramachi~JR Kyoto230JPY
    Total380JPY

    Hello, this is Kazu Akiyama, your tour guide. Nice to meet you and welcome to Japan. Thank you for joining me on the tour. Now I am a retired salaried worker, living in Osaka. I have been very much interested in not only learning Japanese history, culture, religion myself, but also talking about them (sometimes going off topics) in English with tourists from all over the world as well. I am so excited being with you as your guide on coming day! I am very much looking forward to you enjoying with me visiting the must-see places and some of the hidden gems. See you soon. Thank you – Kazu Akiyama

    Jul 29, 2026
    James_G
    Viator review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Great guide and very…
    Great guide and very knowledgeable.…

    Jul 13, 2026
    peterhR6472GA
    Kyoto highlights with Kazu.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with Kazu…

    Jul 12, 2026
    cgalvez73
    Fantastic tour guide
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Our guide in Kyoto was Kazu.…

    Jun 23, 2026
    Winni_H
    Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
    Highly recommended when in Kyoto
    Our tour guide…

  • Kagoshima Shore Excursion: Custom Car Tour

    Kagoshima Shore Excursion: Custom Car Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Marine Port Kagoshima (departs 9:45) → Sengan-en (10:25-12:15) → Ishibashi Memorial Park (12:20-12:45) → Lunch: Fukufuku (12:50-13:40) → Reimeikan (13:50-14:50) → Xavier Church (14:55-15:10) → Marine Port Kagoshima (arrives 15:40)

    What Is a Private Kagoshima Day Tour Like on a Rainy Day? A Licensed Guide's Report The weather was a light drizzle and Sakurajima could not be seen clearly, which was a little disappointing. Even so, the guests focused on indoor sites such as the residence at Sengan-en, the memorial hall at Ishibashi Park, and the Reimeikan, and said they were satisfied. On this day two cruise ships were scheduled to dock at Marine Port, and since it was known in advance that the restaurant at Sengan-en would be crowded, we had lunch at a nearby restaurant called "Fukufuku." Ordering from the tablet was difficult, so it became a good experience for me to go around the tables and help. The taxi driver was very experienced and kindly held an umbrella for us, which I greatly appreciated.

    I worked as a producer at a TV company for over 40 years and moved from Tokyo to Kagoshima in the spring of 2024. I lived in Kagoshima in my 20s and married a Kagoshima woman, so Kagoshima is my second home. My strength is my familiarity with Tokyo and Kagoshima. If you are interested in Japanese people, especially our culture, traditions, history and food, why not contact me? Kagoshima has a unique charm that Tokyo does not have. You will be fascinated not only by the famous tourist spots, but also by walking through the downtown area and back streets. Let’s explore!

    Jul 15, 2026
    diane_w
    Viator review: Kagoshima Shore Excursion: Custom Car Tour, Licensed Guide
    We had a wonderful day…
    We had a wonderful day with…

    May 26, 2026
    Companion12422328239
    Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Kagoshima Private Tour Licensed Guide & Vehicle
    Kagoshima was a highlight of our Japan trip
    Kagoshima was…

    May 4, 2026
    Jackim2009
    Tripadvisor review: Port Pick-Up: Kagoshima Private Tour Licensed Guide & Vehicle
    Our Day in Kagoshima
    We had a wonderful time in…

    Apr 3, 2026
    Wolfgang_B
    Viator review: Port Pick-Up: Kagoshima Private Tour Licensed Guide & Vehicle
    Our host and tour guide…
    Our host and tour guide…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Hotel (on foot) Shibuya Crossing・Hachiko・Koen-dori・Yoyogi Park 09:45 Meiji Shrine・Takeshita Street (subway Meiji-jingumae~Nijubashimae) 11:30 Imperial Palace Outer Garden・East Gardens (subway Takebashi~Tsukiji) 13:00 Tsukiji Outer Market・Lunch (on foot) 14:00 Hamarikyu (JR Shimbashi~Shibuya) 16:00 Disband at Shibuya *1 hour over

    What Can You See on a 6-Hour Private Walking Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from North America, on their first trip to Japan and having arrived the previous night. Throughout the tour, they asked a wide variety of questions about transportation for their 10-day itinerary, recommendations, and shopping spots. At the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, perhaps influenced by the drama "SHOGUN," they asked about the Meiji Restoration and the definition of samurai, which made me feel that watching SHOGUN would be worthwhile. At the Tsukiji Outer Market, they seemed to enjoy their lunch at the counter seats of a sushi restaurant. On a 6-hour tour that includes Meiji Shrine and the East Gardens, visiting three to four locations inevitably means walking close to 10 km each time, which was a somewhat demanding itinerary for the first day of sightseeing right after arriving in Japan. However, the route and timing chosen to avoid crowds as much as possible seemed to work well.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayMeiji-jingumae~Nijubashimae210JPY
    Section 2SubwayTakebashi~Tsukiji180JPY
    Section 3TrainShimbashi~Shibuya210JPY
    Total600JPY

    Hi I am Hiroaki. I am pleased if I could help you to have a good and memorable experience here in Japan.
    I started as a guide in 2017 after retiring. My expertise is outdoor/town walking tour as well as universal tourism.
    If you like, I might show you a lively ordinal local life during the tour.
    I love tourism. I visited all 47 domestic prefectures in Japan and all 50 states in US. I like long journey like walking/biking historical/pilgrimage routes, and love sports especially rugby, triathlon.
    I would like to make your tour as much as customized according to your preference. So the information about spots you want to visit, things you want to do is very helpful for me to prepare plan some options of the day.
    Do not hesitate contact me via email.

    Mar 22, 2025
    Tracy_L
    Special Day in Tokyo with Hiroaki!
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful day with Hiroaki! He tailored…