Category: Uncategorized

  • Tokyo in One Day: Departure: Akabanebashi Station & Shiodome Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Departure: Akabanebashi Station & Shiodome Station

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meeting point: The Prince Park Tower Tokyo
    • 9:10 Departure: Akabanebashi Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • Daimon Station
    • (Toei Subway Asakusa Line)
    • 9:40 Arrive at Asakusa Station
    • Asakusa Sensoji Temple
    • Asakusa Shrine
    • Nakamise Shopping Street
    • 10:40 Depart Asakusa Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Omotesando Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
    • 11:30 Arrive at Meiji-jingumae Station
    • Harajuku Meiji Shrine
    • Takeshita Street
    • 12:30 Depart Harajuku Station
    • (JR Yamanote Line)
    • 12:40 Arrive at Shibuya Station
    • Shibuya Scramble Crossing
    • Hachiko Statue
    • Lunch: Hidakaya
    • 14:00 Depart Shibuya Station
    • (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
    • Aoyama-itchome Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • 14:30 Arrive at Shiodome Station
    • Shiodome Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 15:15 Depart Shiodome Station
    • (Toei Subway Oedo Line)
    • Arrive at Akabanebashi Station
    • 15:30 Dismissal: Akabanebashi Station

    Title: What Can You See on a One-Day Private Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were friends visiting Japan from North America. One of the guests had previously visited only Okinawa once, in connection with construction work, while the other was visiting Japan for the first time. They had arrived at Narita Airport the previous night and traveled to their hotel via the Skyliner and other connections. They were staying in Japan for only this one day. The next day, they planned to board a cruise ship from Yokohama Port, traveling through Kagoshima, Okinawa, and Taiwan, finally arriving in Singapore, from where they would fly home. They mentioned that they had been enjoying overseas travel together since retirement. The tour took place under cloudy skies. We first went to Asakusa. We walked from Kaminarimon through the Nakamise shopping street to the main hall, and they were surprised by the huge crowds. I explained "Senso-ji Temple and the history from Edo to Tokyo," "the Five-Story Pagoda," and "the differences between Buddhism and Shinto." There were questions such as "Do all Japanese people believe in Buddhism?" and "What kind of teaching is Buddhism?" We moved to Harajuku. At Meiji Shrine, I explained "the differences between Shinto and Buddhism" and "the Meiji Restoration," and also spoke about "Emperor Meiji." One comment was, "It is wonderful that there is such a green place in the middle of the city." We moved to Shibuya. The guests experienced the Scramble Crossing and took a commemorative photo in front of the Hachiko statue. There was also a question: "Why are there so many people here? Are they mostly Japanese, or mostly travelers?" Since they wanted to eat ramen, we went to a ramen shop. After this, we went to Hamarikyu Gardens. Both guests said that bonsai was a hobby of theirs, so they were very interested in the "pine trees" planted there. They also made comments such as "Japanese people are all polite," "The town is clean, with no litter on the ground," "There are no trash cans on the streets," and "The public restrooms are clean and pleasant to use." I saw them off at Akabanebashi Station, where we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayAkabanebashi Station~Asakusa Station220JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa Station~Meiji-jingumae Station252JPY
    Section 3TrainHarajuku Station~Shibuya Station146JPY
    Section 4SubwayShibuya Station~Aoyama-itchome Station178JPY
    Section 5SubwayAoyama-itchome Station~Shiodome Station220JPY
    Section 6SubwayShiodome Station~Akabanebashi Station178JPY
    Total1,194JPY

    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 Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • ① 10:00 Meet at Hotel Kyoto Sanjo
    • ② 10:05 Explanation of today's itinerary and about Kyoto
    • ③ 10:40 Nijo Castle
    • ④ 12:00 Stroll and lunch at Nishiki Market
    • ⑤ 13:30 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • ⑥ 14:30 Sannenzaka ~ Kiyomizu-dera Temple
    • ⑦ 16:00 Disband at Kiyomizu-dera Temple

    What Is a Private Tokyo Tour Like for First-Time Visitors? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Europe. They were very courteous and listened attentively to my explanations, asking a relatively large number of questions. Many of their questions concerned the daily customs and lifestyle of Japanese people, and they were especially curious about how Buddhism and Shinto are incorporated into everyday life and how the two coexist. This is truly a question I receive very often, and I find that explaining Obon from the perspective of ancestral spirit worship, while also touching on Shinto and Buddhism, tends to make it easier for guests to understand. I prepare by continually revising and refining my explanations day by day. They were also deeply impressed by the Japanese attitude toward garbage, remarking that it was almost unbelievable how clean the streets were everywhere they went, with very little litter. I was somewhat surprised to learn that even guests from Europe, known for their diligence, felt this way.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainGion-Shijo~Fushimi Inari220JPY
    Total220JPY

    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…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 9:30 Meet at The Okura Tokyo
    • 2. 10:00 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 3. 11:30 Yanaka and Nezu Shrine
    • 4. 12:30 Ueno Park
    • 5. 13:00 Ameyoko
    • 6. 13:30 Lunch at Sushi Restaurant Hyakumangoku
    • 7. 14:30 Asakusa Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise
    • 8. 15:15 Disband at Asakusa Station

    # What's a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests had visited Kyoto before, but this was their first time in Tokyo. So we first got an overview of the Tokyo city center using the Oedo Line and the Ginza Line, which helped the guests understand where their hotel was located within the city center and gave them peace of mind. Although it is called the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, in reality much of it consists of the remains of Edo Castle, so I explained how governance was carried out under the feudal domain system. I also touched on its relationship with the imperial system. After that, we headed to Yanaka, and the guests showed great interest in the fact that such an old-fashioned district as the Yanaka area could exist not far from the Otemachi CBD (Central Business District). Being able to stroll from Nezu Shrine through the temple district and then walk all the way through Ueno Park and Ameyoko in one go was thanks to the guests' remarkable stamina for walking — it was truly a walking tour. After lunch in Ueno, we visited Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa and the Nakamise shopping street, completing the entire itinerary. The guests indicated that it was fine to finish early, so we parted ways ahead of schedule.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassToranomon Hills~Otemachi600JPY
    Section 2Free PassOtemachi~Nezu0JPY
    Section 3Free PassInaricho~Asakusa0JPY
    Total600JPY

    Born and raised in Tokyo a half-century ago, I have lived in Tokyo all my life except for one year in the UK to study for a master’s course. I am a Tokyo Native with viewpoints based on broader local knowledge than anyone else. I have specialised in Japanese history, culture, and architecture since I was an architect.
    Also, I am a foodie emphasising Japanese traditional & healthy foods. I’ve been to many countries around the world, such as the US, Central America, Europe, and Asia. As such, I believe I can anticipate the needs of foreign tourists in Japan.

    Despite my experience as a guide for just two years, we can make the best out of our tour by travelling from your hotel to spots time-efficiently with my local knowledge, while accommodating your unexpected requests during the tour.
    My strong area includes Yanesen; Old Temples in a Quaint Village, Kamakura, Asakusa Sensoji, Meiji Shrine and Imperial Palace. All give you peace of mind.

    Oct 22, 2025
    I5562SWphilipk
    Great intro to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kei was a genial and knowledgeable host, who…

    Oct 12, 2025
    Gary H
    Great tour of Tokyo!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We loved our tour! Our guide was…

    Oct 5, 2025
    C
    Cindy_S
    Had one day in Tokyo and…
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Had one day in Tokyo…

    Sep 15, 2025
    chrishN2970OC
    A highly enjoyable tour of Tokyo with knowledgeable local guide
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had…

  • Matsue & Izumo Taisha in 1 Day Tour

    Matsue & Izumo Taisha in 1 Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • Ohashikan (Matsue, 9:00) → Izumo Taisha Shrine / Ancient Izumo History Museum (10:00-12:00) → Lunch (12:00-13:00) → Inasa Beach (13:10-13:30) → Mankusen Shrine (14:00-14:20)
    • → Yaegaki Shrine (Matsue, 15:40-16:00) → Kamosu Shrine (Matsue, 16:10-16:30) → Ohashikan (17:00)

    Title: What Is a Private Izumo Taisha and Shrine Tour in Shimane Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were staying at a ryokan in Matsue, but since their top priority was Izumo Taisha and I heard they had visited Matsue Castle the previous day, I designed a course centered on Izumo. It happened to be the time of Kamiarizuki, so I explained the origins of Izumo Taisha based on mythology and the events currently being held there, and by also guiding the guests to two shrines in Matsue that are deeply connected to the myths, it became a tour themed around mythology and shrines. The guests were from North America and were very knowledgeable about Japan, but they enjoyed the atmosphere of the shrines surrounded by nature, and also spoke about the common points between this and the lifestyle and way of thinking of people in their home region. I believe they enjoyed themselves.

    I started as a volunteer guide for foreign tourists at Matsue Castle in Shimane Prefecture when I was in my 40s, and after retiring at the age of 60, I became a certified interpreter guide and expanded the scope of my activities to include all of Shimane Prefecture, as well as Tottori and Hiroshima Prefectures.
    I was born and raised in Matsue City in western Japan. Matsue is a medium-sized city and the capital of Shimane Prefecture. It is a quiet town that retains the old atmosphere with Matsue Castle, which was built over 400 years ago, and is known for its culture of drinking matcha green tea frequently. I would like to share with you the charm of a regional city like Matsue. Near Matsue, there is a shrine called Izumo Grand Shrine, one of the largest, oldest and most venerated shrines in Japan. The origin of this shrine is written in the Japanese myths, and its precincts are very mysterious. Shimane Prefecture and the neighboring prefecture of Tottori were the setting of Japanese mythology and have well preserved Japan’s historical heritage and traditions. Shimane and Tottori prefectures are not on the so-called “golden route” frequented by foreign tourists, but I hope they will be included in your sightseeing route because they are full of Japan’s unique charm. From its beginnings to the present day, Japan has weaved a long history without being dominated by any other country or, conversely, without advocating hegemony over neighboring countries – although, unfortunately, it did invade Asian countries for a period of time in the 20th century. It is my great pleasure to introduce you to a part of Japan’s culture, which is diverse and peaceful. I am also a guide in Hiroshima Prefecture, the southern neighbor of Shimane Prefecture. I mainly guide visitors to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, where I try to convey the tragic event of the atomic bombing based on the testimonies of those who suffered as much as possible. It is a place that you should definitely visit at least once.
    Furthermore, I hope to convey the Japanese way of thinking and lifestyle through various conversations during the guided tour. This is also one of my joys.
    I myself often travel, and I always make sure to have a guide with me. This is because the quality of the trip is greatly enhanced by the guide’s explanations. I also make an effort to make travelers feel that way. Enjoy your trip!

    Apr 21, 2026
    Michelle W
    Tripadvisor review: Matsue/Izumo Taisha Shrine Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Matsue Private Tour
    Our guide was Katsumi and he…

    May 18, 2025
    F
    FarTooFrequentFlyer
    Bringing its samurai heritage to life!
    Tripadvisor review: Matsue/Izumo Taisha Shrine Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    We lucked in…

    Oct 29, 2024
    Bern_Y
    Day Trip to Izumo Taisha and other Shrines
    Viator review: Matsue/Izumo Taisha Shrine Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Our guide…

    Sep 6, 2024
    Tshiehnewton
    Excellent local guide for English speakers
    Tripadvisor review: Matsue/Izumo Taisha Shrine Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    Katsumi Nagata was a…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Sumiya Hospitality Culture Museum of Art

    Kyoto in One Day: Sumiya Hospitality Culture Museum of Art

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:30 Meet at Hotel M's Est Kyoto Station South
    • 10:00 Sumiya Hospitality Culture Museum of Art
    • 12:15 Lunch at Hinoya near Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 12:50 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 14:30 Nijo Castle
    • 15:35 Disband at Nijo Castle entrance

    What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nijo Castle and Fushimi Inari Today's guests were a group visiting from Oceania. The guests had a strong interest in architecture and had already seen Nagoya Castle, Osaka Castle, and Mount Koya before this tour. At the Sumiya Motenashi Cultural Museum, detailed explanations were given about the architectural style and history, which the guests found very interesting. Fushimi Inari Taisha was not too crowded, so they enjoyed their visit. On today's tour, the guests seemed most interested in Nijo Castle, viewing it with great attention. I believe they thoroughly enjoyed the day.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Tambaguchi150JPY
    Section 2TrainTambaguchi~Inari190JPY
    Section 3TrainFushimi Inari~Sanjo220JPY
    Section 4TrainSanjo Keihan~Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Total780JPY

    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 Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet at hotel
    • →11:00 Shibamata Taishakuten
    • →12:00 Lunch @ Yabuchu
    • →13:30 Stroll around Yanaka
    • →14:30 Nezu Shrine
    • →16:00 Shinagawa Station

    What Is a Private Off-the-Beaten-Path Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Shibamata and Yanesen The guests from Oceania wished to explore Tokyo while avoiding the crowds, so I suggested Shibamata and the Yanesen area. At Taishakuten Temple, they were moved by the beauty of the carvings and the Japanese garden, and they enjoyed handmade soba noodles at a long-established soba restaurant. In Yanaka, we walked through the residential streets and stopped by a local supermarket, where they compared the prices of food and other goods. At Nezu Shrine, they took many photos at Otome Inari Shrine, and they were touched by the beauty of a child dressed in a kimono who was visiting for a traditional celebration. I believe they truly enjoyed taking their time to explore places with fewer tourists.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainShinagawa~Shibamata621JPY
    Section 2TrainShibamata~Nippori272JPY
    Section 3SubwaySendagi~Otemachi178JPY
    Section 4TrainTokyo~Shinagawa178JPY
    Total1,249JPY

    Hello, I’m Yukie Tachibana, national licensed tour guide living in Yokohama with my family. Please call me Yuki. I have been working as a tour guide for 5years mainly around Tokyo, Kanagawa, for example, Hakone, Kamakura, Yokohama and Kawasaki. I have had an experience of attending a lot of foreign visitors from all over the world in both private and group tours for sightseeing and business in one to multi-days. I’m able to arrange the tour for you, so please feel free to ask me your favorite plan in Japan as to spot, food and some activities. I like to see Buddhist statues in temples so I’d like to introduce our history and culture. Also because I like Japanese animation and character, and animals, I can take you to some shops for the animation and animal cafes that are so popular among tourists. Looking forward to seeing you soon and share wonderful time in Japan! Thank you.

    May 1, 2026
    444CraigH
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 8hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide from Yokohama
    Tokyo in a day from Yokohama
    We had a great…

    Apr 16, 2026
    Adele P
    Tripadvisor review: Yokohama 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Lovely Yokohama!
    We had a lovely day in Yokohama with Yukie…

    Oct 17, 2025
    LeslieS1560
    Intro to Tokyo
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Yuki was awesome. She reached out right after we…

    Jun 27, 2025
    L
    L3151LVdavidl
    Amazing Kamakura Tour with Yukie
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura 4hr Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
    We had an amazing tour with…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Kyoto in One Day: Kinkaku-ji & Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 Meet at Kyoto Station
    • 9:10 Kinkaku-ji
    • 10:00 Ryoan-ji
    • 11:00 Randen Arashiyama – Kimono Forest > River > Tenryu-ji > Bamboo Grove
    • 12:40 Lunch at Kaiseki Cafe Kaeru-kichi Akichi
    • 14:00 Fushimi Inari Taisha
    • 15:00 End at the entrance of Sannenzaka

    Can You Do a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Starting from Kyoto Station? A Licensed Guide's Report Today I guided the group visiting from North America, who were staying in the Shinagawa area. They had come from Tokyo early in the morning and were scheduled to return by the 6:30 Shinkansen in the evening. We started at Kinkaku-ji, then visited Ryoan-ji and Arashiyama, followed by Fushimi Inari, and finally took a taxi to end the tour at 3:00 in front of a shichimi shop on Kiyomizu-zaka. Some of the guests had come to Japan many times, but it was their first visit to the Kansai region, and for others it was their very first trip to Japan. Since they had started so early in the morning and had not eaten anything, we began with breakfast at a fast-food restaurant. The itinerary was already quite packed, so my takeaway for future tours that meet at Kyoto Station is that I should tell the guests in advance to bring food onto the Shinkansen and eat beforehand. Still, we were blessed with good weather and moved through the itinerary smoothly, and I believe the guests enjoyed the day.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Kitaoji260JPY
    Section 2TrainSaga-Arashiyama~Tofukuji240JPY
    Section 3TrainTofukuji~Fushimi Inari170JPY
    Total670JPY

    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…

  • Otaru Customized Half-Day Tour

    Otaru Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 11:30 – Meet the guests at the Otaru Canal Asakusa Bridge Tourist Information Center
    • 2. 11:35 – Stroll along the canal (Asakusa Bridge to Chuo Bridge)
    • 3. 11:50 – Enter Canal Plaza (shopping)
    • 4. 12:30 – Partial stroll and photo stop at Nichigin Street (Wall Street of the North)
    • 5. 12: 40 – Lunch at Chinese restaurant "Hao"
    • 6. 14:00 – Stroll along Sakaimachi Street (shopping and photo stop)
    • 7. 14:20 – Board taxi, enter Tanaka Sake Brewery Kikkogura (tour of production line, shopping)
    • 8. 15: 00 The guests head to Sapporo in a chartered private car. The guide sees the guests off.

    Otaru Private Tour Report: A Licensed Guide's Day Exploring the Canal Area The meeting point with the guests was initially set at a facility that consists of four separate buildings, so I was concerned about whether we would be able to meet without any issues. I sent an email to the guests regarding the meeting point, but had not received a reply by the time I left on the day of the tour. I emailed the office about this matter, and they kindly changed the meeting point to the tourist information center at the canal, so I was able to meet the guests without any trouble. When I met the guests, I was informed that walking for long periods would be difficult. I guided them to the sightseeing spots mentioned above while taking care to keep the burden as light as possible. When we parted, I received very kind and appreciative words from them.

    Select a guide: enter the WordPress Guide post ID or Guide ID in the block settings.

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  • Osaka in One Day: Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine & Dotonbori

    Osaka in One Day: Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine & Dotonbori

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:30 Meet up @The Lively Osaka Hommachi
    • 10:15 @Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine
    • 11:45 @Doguyasuji
    • 12:15 @Kuromon Market
    • 13:15 @Dotonbori (including light meal)
    • 14;30 @Umeda Sky Building
    • 15:15 Disband @Umeda Sky Building

    What Is a Private Osaka Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Sumiyoshi Taisha, Umeda Sky Building, and Dotonbori The guests were a group visiting Osaka. At Sumiyoshi Taisha, they offered prayers, picked up the popular "Go-Dai-Riki" pebbles, and purchased amulet pouches. At the Umeda Sky Building, one of the guests became separated from the group along the way, and I searched for them; they mentioned that they were not fond of high places. During the itinerary, the guests expressed a wish to eat okonomiyaki as they were hungry, so I guided them to a shop in Dotonbori. After visiting the Umeda Sky Building, I explained the route back, and we parted ways.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwaySakaisujihommachi~Namba190JPY
    Section 2TrainNamba~Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine240JPY
    Section 3TrainSumiyoshi Taisha Shrine~Namba240JPY
    Total670JPY

    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

    Jul 25, 2026
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    We were taken…

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    Our tour guide…

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  • Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:25 Meet at hotel 7:55 Fushimi Inari 9:20 Kinkaku-ji 10:25 Ryoan-ji 11:30 Lunch (sushi) 12:30 Nijo Castle 13:30 Tour ends

    Title: What Is a Private Day Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kinkaku-ji, Ryoan-ji, and Nijo Castle The guests visited Japan from Europe. We were able to meet at the hotel a little earlier than planned, so we made the JR train from Kyoto Station in good time. Everything went very smoothly afterwards as well. The guests walked well throughout, which was a great help. For lunch we went to a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant right next to Wara Tenjin. The guests love sushi and enjoyed their meal very much. They mentioned that in Europe, immigration is accepted at the EU level, so the working population does not seem to be declining as much as in Japan. They were impressed that Japanese streets have no litter and are extremely clean. The weather improved, and they took many photos in various places. At many sites there were more and more school excursion students and elementary school children on field trips (especially at Kinkaku-ji and Nijo Castle). The tour ended after the visit to Nijo Castle was nearly finished, as the guests took a rest on a bench in the garden within the castle grounds. The photo was taken at Ryoan-ji.

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainKyoto~Inari150JPY
    Section 2TrainInari~Enmachi200JPY
    Section 3BusEnmachi~Kinkaku-ji-michi230JPY
    Section 4OtherKinkaku-ji~Ryoan-ji0JPY
    Section 5BusRyoan-ji-mae~Waratenjin-mae230JPY
    Section 6BusWaratenjin-mae~Nishioji Oike230JPY
    Section 7SubwayNishioji Oike~Nijojo-mae220JPY
    Total1,260JPY

    I was born and grew up in Kyoto and now live near Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. I used to be a schoolteacher of English and welcome a lot of students from foreign countries. I really enjoyed showing them around Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, and Hiroshima. I have been a professional tour guide for about 8 years. I always try to let my guests learn Japanese traditional and modern culture. Since I was born in Kyoto, I know a lot about its culture and people. I myself enjoyed several sports, such as soccer, judo, and marathon when I was young. I’m much interested in baseball and sumo. My motto as a tour guide is to let my guests learn about our tradition and culture precisely and really enjoy themselves. I strongly hope you will enjoy the tour in Japan with me.

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    Great way to see Kyoto
    Wonderful tour and exceptional guide.

    Jul 9, 2026
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    Kazuo was great and…
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