Category: Uncategorized

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle and stay there

    Osaka in Half a Day: Osaka Castle and stay there

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:30 　 Pick up at Hotel Osaka
    • 8:30-10:30 Move to Osaka Castle and stay there.
    • 10:30-11:30 Shitennoji Temple
    • 11:30-12:20 Kuromon Market
    • 12:20-13:10 Dotonbori / Hozenji Yokocho Alley
    • 13:10-13:20 Go back to their hotel in Tanimatchi 9
    • Around 13:20 End of the tour

    Title: What Can You See on a Private Osaka Day Tour Covering Osaka Castle, Shitennoji, Kuromon Market, and Dotonbori? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors who did not mind walking or climbing stairs and moved along quickly. Shitennoji Temple had not been part of the original plan, but since we finished viewing Osaka Castle early, we added it. Because we arrived right after Osaka Castle opened, it was not yet very crowded. We first took the elevator up to the 5th floor, then went to the observation deck on the 8th floor, and explained each floor on the way down, which was very efficient. At Shitennoji Temple, monks in colorful robes happened to be performing a ceremony, and I quietly took some photos. In the main hall, we were able to see chanting up close, which was wonderful. The guests also held a memorial for their own ancestors by writing a name in English on a large 600-yen candle. Since they only ate in the morning and evening and did not have lunch, we mainly enjoyed sightseeing at Kuromon Market and Dotonbori. Since the guests were worried about getting lost, they asked to be taken back to their hotel at the end of the tour, so we returned to the front of the hotel near Tanimachi 9-chome. Overall, the walking distances were short and we were able to get around efficiently.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTanimachi 9-chome～Tanimachi 4-chome190JPY
    Section 2TrainTanimachi 4-chome～Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka190JPY
    Section 3TrainShitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka～Nipponbashi190JPY
    Section 4TrainNamba～Tanimachi 9-chome190JPY
    Total760JPY

    Tour Report by Yuki

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Tokyo in One Day: Takeshiba Station & Ueno Station

    Tokyo in One Day: Takeshiba Station & Ueno Station

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet @ InterContinental Tokyo Bay
    • 10:05 Takeshiba Station
    • 10:15 Shiodome Station
    • 10:25 Hamarikyu Gardens
    • Tea at Nakajima Teahouse
    • 11:50 Departure
    • 12:15 Tsukiji Outer Market
    • 13:20 Tsukiji Station
    • 13:30 Hibiya Station
    • Tokyo Midtown Hibiya
    • 14:00 Hibiya Station
    • 14:20 Sendagi Station
    • Yanaka Ginza
    • 15:00 Nippori Station
    • 15:10 Ueno Station
    • Ueno Park
    • 16:00 Dismissal @ Ueno Station

    What's a Full-Day Private Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Hamarikyu, Tsukiji, Yanaka, and Ueno The guests were visitors from Europe. Since one of them had previously been to Asakusa and Meiji Shrine, I planned a course this time that would let them experience other aspects of history and culture. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guides lead private tours like this across Japan. We were blessed with good weather, and Hamarikyu Gardens was wonderful. The guests were delighted with the matcha and sweets experience at the Nakajima Teahouse. Since they wanted a light lunch, we sampled sashimi of natural bluefin tuna purchased from a tuna specialty shop at Tsukiji Uogashi on the third floor, and this too was very well received. As we had time to spare, we stopped by Hibiya and looked out over the Imperial Palace area from above. The warm atmosphere of the Yanaka neighborhood was also appreciated, and finally I guided them through Ueno Park, showing them shrines and other sights before seeing them off at the station ticket gate.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainTakeshiba Station～Shiodome Station190JPY
    Section 2SubwayTsukiji Station～Hibiya Station180JPY
    Section 3SubwayHibiya Station～Sendagi Station180JPY
    Section 4TrainNippori Station～Ueno Station150JPY
    Total700JPY

    Tour Report by Lily

    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!!

    Request Booking

    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 in One Day: Peace Memorial Museum & Daishoin Temple

    Hiroshima in One Day: Peace Memorial Museum & Daishoin Temple

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

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet at Nest Hiroshima
    • 9:20 Peace Memorial Museum
    • 13:00 Lunch @Kaki-no-Hayashi
    • 14:00 Itsukushima Shrine
    • 14:40 Daishoin Temple
    • 15:10 End the tour at the Daishoin Path

    Title: What Is a Private Hiroshima and Miyajima Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was a solo traveler from Europe. They were very active and easygoing, so much so that I felt they hardly needed a guide like me. As usual, on the way to the Peace Memorial Museum, I introduced the atomic bomb ruins along the route. The museum was already crowded with many tour groups. For lunch, we chose oysters on Miyajima. Since the guest had already visited Koyasan, the explanation at Daisho-in Temple seemed to deepen their understanding even further. As the guest planned to climb Mount Misen, we finished at the entrance of the Daisho-in route. I had also recommended the Miyajima sunset in advance, and since the weather was lovely, they were looking forward to it. The guest was also amazed at how convenient the Suica card is.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1BusKanayamacho～Peace Memorial Park220JPY
    Section 2TrainGenbaku Dome-mae～Yokogawa220JPY
    Section 3TrainYokogawa～Miyajimaguchi330JPY
    Total770JPY

    Tour Report by Michi

    Hi. I’m Michi. I’m a national licensed tour guide in English.
    I want to introduce many faces and charms of Japan and make your stay in Japan more fascinating and satisfying.

    I was born and raised in Hiroshima. My first tour in English was as a volunteer guide for the visitors to my school when I was a junior high school student. It gave me a great opportunity to study about the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima.
    I spent my life in Hiroshima except for 6 years; 1 year in the UK as a student and 5 years working in Singapore and Malaysia. During this period I enjoyed meeting and talking with people from different cultural backgrounds.
    These experiences encouraged me to be a licensed tour guide.

    In Hiroshima, there are two famous World Heritage Sites, the Atomic Bomb Dome in the Hiroshima Peace Memorial & Itsukushima Shrine in Miyajima.
    I have experienced many tours of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum & Park since I was a junior high school student. I would like to introduce you to the a-bomb legacies that are still existing in the city and the stories under the mushroom cloud.
    I also would like to share time with you on a historic island, Miyajima. There is one of the most famous Shinto shrines, the Itsukushima Shrine. We can share an enjoyable time by exploring a sacred atmosphere, tradition, nature, food, etc.

    I am also an official ‘A-bomb legacy successor’ designated by the City of Hiroshima. An A-bomb Legacy Successor is a memory keeper of the A-bomb survivors. To ensure that the A-bomb survivors’ experiences and desires for peace are faithfully inherited and shared with as many people as possible, the City has started a three-year training program for official ‘A-bomb Legacy Successors. ‘

    Let me support your stay in Japan and I look forward to showing you the best of Japan!
    Hope to see you soon!

    Request Booking

    Jan 2, 2025
    georgeweller
    Excellent tour by a very knowledgeable guide
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Michi-San was an…

    Nov 8, 2024
    Andrew M
    Awesome experience! Michi was the best guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Awesome…

    Nov 8, 2024
    Andrew_M
    Awesome day! Michi was an amazing guide!
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Awesome day!…

    Sep 16, 2024
    alexandermM7944BB
    Day tour with Michi
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Michi, our guide, was amazing!…

  • Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace East Gardens

    Tokyo in One Day: Imperial Palace East Gardens

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 9:00 Meet up　Hotel Wing International Yotsuya
    • 9:40 Imperial Palace East Gardens
    • 11:10 Akihabara　Lunch　Yukari　Okonomiyaki　
    • 12:00 Akihabara Electric Town
    • 13:15 Harajuku
    • 　　owl cafe　Takeshita Street　Harajuku Street　Omotesando　Shibuya Cat Street
    • 14:15 Shibuya Crossing　Fukuras 17th Floor
    • 15:00 Shibuya Station　Dismissal

    Title: What Is a Private Tokyo Walking Tour of Akihabara, Harajuku, and Shibuya Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a very cheerful and friendly group visiting from Europe. Under beautiful clear autumn skies, I was able to give them a very comfortable tour. At lunch in Akihabara, they repeatedly exclaimed "yummy" over the okonomiyaki, and they were delighted by the staff's cooking performance, appearing very satisfied. They were also thrilled by the owl cafe we stopped by briefly. Walking from Harajuku to Shibuya, they seemed captivated by the streetscape and the shops, and said they would like to come back another day to take their time shopping. They said that with all the information I had shared, they would be able to explore on their own starting the next day, and they thanked me for such a very enjoyable day.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayYotsuya-sanchome～Otemachi178JPY
    Section 2SubwayOtemachi～Akihabara178JPY
    Section 3TrainAkihabara～Harajuku178JPY
    Total534JPY

    Tour Report by Kris

    My name is Kris,
    Before becoming a tour guide, I worked for a major steelmaking company as an engineer for many years. During my career, I lived and worked in both Germany and the United States for a total of five years. These experiences helped me understand different cultures and ways of thinking, which now helps me connect easily with guests from around the world.

    After retirement, I chose a second career as a tour guide because I truly enjoy meeting people from different countries and sharing Japanese culture, history, and daily life. I have been working as a guide for more than nine years and continue to enjoy every tour.

    I currently live in Tokyo, but I was born and raised in Kobe, near Osaka, and my family roots are in Kyoto. As a result, I have extensive knowledge not only of Tokyo but also of Kyoto, Osaka, and many other parts of Japan. I enjoy introducing both famous landmarks and hidden local gems that many visitors might otherwise miss.

    I am energetic, friendly, and very sociable. I always try to create tours that are relaxed, flexible, and tailored to my guests’ interests.

    Travel is one of my greatest passions, especially visiting hot spring resorts. I have visited more than 80 onsen destinations throughout Japan, giving me a deep appreciation of Japanese culture and regional traditions.

    Whether you are visiting Japan for the first time or returning for another adventure, I would be delighted to help you discover the real Japan from a local perspective.

    I look forward to meeting you and helping you create wonderful memories in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and beyond.

    See you in Japan!

    Kris

    Request Booking

    May 10, 2026
    Matt_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A Wonderful Introduction to Tokyo
    We were so lucky to have Kris-San…

    Apr 29, 2026
    Rebecca_M
    Viator review: Toyosu Market Morning Tuna Auction and Tsukiji Food Tour with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour
    We had such a wonderful…

    Apr 21, 2026
    jacquir581
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We love Kris
    Kris was awesome! He was very flexible when our…

    Apr 2, 2026
    Frank_B
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A great day in Tokyo
    Great tour with an excellent guide, Kris.…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1. 10:35 Meet up@Grand Hyatt Tokyo
    • 2. 10:40 Travel: Subway
    • 3. 11:05 Stay@Meiji Shrine
    • 4. 12:05 Stay@Takeshita Street
    • 5. 12:30 Travel: Subway
    • 6. 12:55 Stay@Tsukiji
    • 7. 13:20 Lunch@Tsukiji Sushisei Shinkan
    • 8. 14:15 Travel: Subway
    • 9. 14:40 Stay@Asakusa
    • 10. 15:40 Travel: Subway
    • 11. 16:10 Stay@Wadakura Fountain Park
    • 12. 16:25 Travel: Subway
    • 13. 16:50 Disband@Hotel

    Title: What Can You See on a Private One-Day Tour of Tokyo? A Licensed Guide's Report I had been a little concerned because there was no contact until the tour date drew near, but after the guests reached out by email three days beforehand, we were able to stay in touch smoothly right up until just before the tour. The guests were a group visiting from Asia. Since some of the guests had an Asian background, the sushi at Tsukiji seemed to be very well received. As they had requested the highlights for the places to visit, I guided them in the order of Meiji Shrine, Tsukiji, and Asakusa. Since they did not do much shopping in Asakusa, we had some extra time, so before taking them back to the hotel, we decided to take a walk along the Kikyo-bori moat of the Imperial Palace. I feel that I was able to offer a full and rewarding tour comfortably within the limited time available. This private one-day tour of Tokyo was arranged through [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/), one of Japan's largest networks of government-licensed, English-speaking private tour guides, serving all 47 prefectures.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassRoppongi Station～Meiji-jingumae Station900JPY
    Section 2Free PassMeiji-jingumae Station～Tsukiji Station0JPY
    Section 3Free PassTsukiji Station～Asakusa Station0JPY
    Section 4Free PassAsakusa Station～Otemachi Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassTokyo Station～Roppongi Station0JPY
    Total900JPY

    Tour Report by Sam

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

    Request Booking

    Jul 21, 2026
    G848SWmaribelm
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Tour of Tokyo sights was great!
    The tour experience…

    Jul 16, 2026
    Cezary P
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour of Tokyo!
    Sam, was outstanding! Showed…

    Jul 9, 2026
    Michael_C
    Tokyo tour
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Excellent tour with a wonderful guide -…

    Jun 18, 2026
    David_W
    Viator review: Tokyo Tsukiji Food & Culture 4hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Fish Market Tour
    Great tour. Got to see…

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Kuromon Market & Dotonbori

    Osaka in Half a Day: Kuromon Market & Dotonbori

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meet @ Tempozan Passenger Terminal
    • 09:45 @ Namba, Doguyasuji Shopping Street
    • 11:00 @ Kuromon Market
    • 11:45 @ Dotonbori
    • 12:45 Disband @ Osaka Metro Shinsaibashi Station

    What Is a Private Osaka Food Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Osaka, and the tour turned into what could be called a "food walking tour." The group moved at a relaxed pace and took frequent rest breaks along the way. At Doguyasuji, the guests purchased realistic food samples and Japanese-style tenugui towels as souvenirs. At Kuromon Market, they enjoyed takoyaki, strawberries, mitarashi dango, pickles, and dried fruits; in Dotonbori, they had Kobe beef and yakitori; and in Shinsaibashi, they enjoyed matcha soft serve ice cream, all of which seemed to satisfy them greatly. In addition, they had a light meal at a café near Kuromon Market. Since they planned to visit Osaka again about two days later, they asked which spots would be worth visiting at night, and I recommended the Umeda Sky Building, viewing Osaka Castle from the outside, and Dotonbori. I explained the way back at the Osaka Metro Shinsaibashi Station, and we parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOsaka Port～Namba290JPY
    Total290JPY

    Tour Report by Yama

    Dear my guests,

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Request Booking

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

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

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

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

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Station/Miyajimaguchi

    Hiroshima in One Day: Hiroshima Station/Miyajimaguchi

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

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:46 Meet at Hiroshima Station
    • 10:51/ Hiroshima Station/Miyajimaguchi (JR 420 yen)
    • 11:40/11:50 JR Miyajima Ferry
    • 11:50~ Miyajima sightseeing, food walk (shopping street/Great Torii Gate/Senjokaku/Five-Story Pagoda/view Itsukushima Shrine from outside/Great Rice Scoop/back streets/ferry terminal)
    • 14:15 Miyajima Pier World Heritage Sea Route
    • 14:45/15:30 World Heritage Sea Route (1100 yen)
    • 15:30 From World Heritage Sea Route terminal to the Atomic Bomb Museum
    • 17:15 Depart the museum/stroll through the park, hypocenter, Atomic Bomb Dome, view Orizuru Tower from outside, head to the bus stop through Shareo
    • 17:41 Kamiyacho-higashi/Hiroshima Station (bus 220 yen)
    • 17:58 Tour ends in front of the green ticket counter

    Title: What Is a Private Miyajima and Hiroshima Peace Park Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Before the tour, it was difficult to get in touch with the guests, and I apologize for the trouble this caused, but today I was again able to spend an enjoyable and meaningful time with the guests. The weather was fine and the temperature felt just right. At each place we visited, I asked about the guests' wishes and did my best to carry out the tour in a way that fulfilled them as much as possible. The guests said they wanted to buy made-in-Japan items from Miyajima, and at a momiji manju shop they purchased a set of chopsticks and a rice scoop (shamoji) for about 2,000 yen. At another shop they also bought a made-in-Japan rice scoop and seemed very satisfied. One of the guests apparently likes the color red very much, and at a chopstick shop bought red chopsticks. Although the length was of the smaller size, they still had their own name engraved on the red chopsticks. On the day, at first the guests said they wanted to eat a Hiroshima specialty at a restaurant, but the island was extremely crowded with school trip students and others, so getting a seat looked difficult. One of the guests said they wanted to eat oyster dishes, so as an alternative I suggested trying oysters and other items sold at storefronts as street food. The guests were worried that eating while walking might be a breach of etiquette, but I explained that in Miyajima it is currently fine as long as you are careful of passersby and do not enter a shop while holding food. We bought oysters at a storefront, and a person sitting on a bench cried out. It seems a deer had approached while they were about to eat ice cream. We had also planned to eat our oysters on a bench, but a deer suddenly appeared, drawn by the sound of the plastic bag I was carrying for trash and by the smell of the oysters, so we ended up standing to eat the oysters. (See attached photo.) The guests said they were surprised at how delicious the oysters were, and told me, "Thank you for bringing us to this shop!" The guests were very cheerful, and everywhere we went they said things like, "Thank you for bringing us here," and "Thank you for introducing us to this shop." [Regarding feeding deer: OK in Nara, NG in Hiroshima] In Nara, deer crackers are sold, but in Hiroshima feeding the deer is currently prohibited. When I was a child, deer crackers were sold in Miyajima, and dried corn as feed for pigeons was sold at Peace Park. Neither is sold anymore. Also, deer dying from eating plastic has been in the news in both Nara and Hiroshima, so if a deer looks like it is about to eat plastic, I get the guests' consent and approach the deer to take the plastic away from it. The day before the tour, the guests said they wanted to take the World Heritage Sea Route, but same-day web reservations were not possible. After arriving on the island, we went to the counter on the day, and although I was worried since it was the autumn sightseeing season, there were seats available. However, when boarding from Miyajima it was more crowded than ever, so I was really glad we were able to get seats. The boat was full, and there was a group talking loudly. The guests remarked, "In such a crowded place it's easy to catch germs, so you're doing the right thing wearing a mask and mouth shield." The tide level today was very high, and when passing under the lowest bridge on the way from Miyajima to Peace Park, the boat came closer than usual to the bridge girder, and the guests found it thrilling and enjoyable. [The guests' reaction after visiting the Atomic Bomb Museum] After visiting the Atomic Bomb Museum, the guests said they felt very sad. They also earnestly stated that the leaders of nuclear-armed nations should come here and feel the horror of possessing and using nuclear weapons. In May 2023, the G7 Summit was held in Hiroshima, and world leaders visited the Atomic Bomb Museum, but according to the news, some reportedly said they "did not want to see such tragic photos," so it is unclear exactly which exhibits they viewed and how. Judging from the live footage, the shortest visit by one country was about 30 minutes. During that time it is unclear whether those who entered first were viewing the exhibits or waiting somewhere for the last leader to arrive. There was also a news report that some leaders returned to visit the museum privately on a separate day.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima Station～Miyajimaguchi420JPY
    Section 2FerryMiyajima～Peace Park1,100JPY
    Section 3BusKamiyacho-higashi～Hiroshima Station220JPY
    Total1,740JPY

    Tour Report by miki

    Dear guests,
    Hello! My name is Miki. I was born and brought up in Hiroshima. I enjoy traveling around Inland Sea areas and I enjoy chatting with guests from overseas!

    In Hiroshima, you can see many beautiful rivers and old bridges. Lately, I often take photos of Hiroshima city including bridges and rivers. There are not many tall buildings here, but I know some places you can visit and see the view for free. By the atomic bomb dome, there is a building called Orizuru(paper crane) Tower. You need to pay to go up to the top floor but you can see the view of Hiroshima city and the Miyajima Island(Itsukushima).

    Many tourists from overseas as well as Japan want to visit Miyajima Island. You can see a beautiful shrine from Heian Period which is around 12th century and a huge Torii gate in front of the shrine and it is in the water. There are several ways to visit the island from Hiroshima city. If you are going to stay near JR Hiroshima Station, we will visit the island by JR train and JR ferry. If you are staying in the city area, we can go there by streetcar and ferry, or there is a high-speed boat from Peace Memorial Park pier directly to the island and vise versa.

    Hoping to see you in the near future!

    Miki
    Your tour guide in Hiroshima

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    May 20, 2026
    Barbgal
    Viator review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Walking tour of Hiroshima – 4 hours
    It was a…

    May 16, 2026
    E8055FUjamesg
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Great day in sunny Hiroshima
    We were with Miki Nakashima,…

    Apr 5, 2026
    jacquid804
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Miki was amazing
    Miki was fabulous very informative and knowledgeable…

    Aug 19, 2025
    J
    Jemma H
    Excellent tour of Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    Miyuki was a very…

  • Kyoto in One Day: Hyatt Place Kyoto & Togetsukyo

    Kyoto in One Day: Hyatt Place Kyoto & Togetsukyo

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:30 Hyatt Place Kyoto
    • 11:00 Fushimiinari (0) by Subway & JR train
    • 12:00 Kiyomizudera (500) by taxi
    • Sannenzaka by walking
    • Yasaka-no-to by walking
    • Lunch(Namaste Dhaulagiri）
    • 15:10 Gioji (300) by taxi
    • 15:50 Bamboo path by walking
    • 16:00 Tenryuji by walking
    • 16:40 Togetsukyo
    • End of the tour
    • 17:20 Hyatt place Kyoto

    What Does a Full-Day Private Kyoto Tour Look Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, and Arashiyama The guests were visitors from North America. They had no particular places they wanted to visit, so I guided them along my favorite route. Both Fushimi Inari and Kiyomizu-dera were extremely crowded. On Kiyomizu-zaka slope, we walked while stopping from time to time. I introduced them to various shops, but they did not make any purchases. However, they said they would check out the shops they liked later. I thought they might get tired if we only visited crowded places, so I also guided them to Gio-ji Temple in Sagano. I was surprised that there were more tourists there than expected. They did not offer prayers at Fushimi Inari, but at the small Mikami Shrine by Ogura Pond, they both offered prayers. Finally, we passed through the garden of Tenryu-ji Temple, came out to the Oi River, walked halfway across Togetsukyo Bridge, took in views of Mount Ogura and Arashiyama, and ended the tour.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainMarutamachi～Kyoto260JPY
    Section 2TrainKyoto～Inari150JPY
    Total410JPY

    Tour Report by Kazz

    I’m Ryoichi Kazuma and my nickname is “Kazz”. I live in Kyotanabe city next to Kyoto city. I want guests to enjoy Kyoto by seeing and experiencing not only from outside but also from inside. I offer various information from daily matters to traditional cultures. Most destinations in Kyoto are located on the eastern side or the western side. As I want to guide guests to as many destinations as possible, I make an efficient itinerary and recommend a taxi use to save time. Additionally, I take pictures at various spots and finally share the link to my storage. By doing so, guests can download their favorite pictures from my storage. Please enjoy Kyoto night and day!

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    Jul 14, 2026
    T6871WWricharde
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Full-Day Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Kazz gave a great one on one 8 hour custom tour…

    Jun 5, 2026
    mateoe216
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Would book again
    The tour with Kazuma-san was absolutely great. As someone…

    May 27, 2026
    Leah_D
    Viator review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Absolutely recommend!
    I definitely recommend seeing some of the sights with a…

    May 26, 2026
    sheilacL3330KS
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Very enthusiastic and knowledgable guide. Much appreciated
    Kazz was an excellent guide…

  • Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day

    Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1100 Aloft Tokyo Ginza (6 min from Shimbashi Station on the Ginza Line) was supposed to be the meeting point
    • 1040 While heading to the hotel, I was stopped by the Guest who was out for a walk (since I had sent them my photo), and the guide started from there. While strolling from Kabukiza to the Ginza 4-chome intersection, I explained a brief history of Edo/Tokyo covering the establishment of the Edo shogunate, the Meiji Restoration, the Great Kanto Earthquake, and the Pacific War
    • 1140 Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
    • 1300 Asakusa, Nakamise, Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine
    • 1500 Visit to Meiji Shrine, Takeshita Street
    • 1630 Shibuya, Hachiko statue, Scramble Crossing
    • 1700 Explained the route to the Ginza Line and parted ways

    Private Full-Day Tokyo Walking Tour with a Licensed Guide: Koishikawa Korakuen, Asakusa, and Meiji Shrine Report The guests were visitors from North America who had recently arrived in Japan. Two days earlier they had arrived, and the previous day they explored Tokyo Station, the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, and Akihabara while purchasing JR tickets and SUICA cards. From the next day they planned to travel to the Kansai region. As mentioned above, while I was heading toward the hotel from Shimbashi Station, I was called out to from behind. Since I had sent my photo in advance, the guests, who were out for a walk, recognized me. It was a little earlier than scheduled, but we started the tour from there. Koishikawa Korakuen Garden was quite lovely, but due to unseasonably warm summer weather, the mosquitoes had returned, and one of the guests got quite a few bites on the legs. It is hard to predict the autumn season this year. In Asakusa, the guests purchased a protective charm, and both drew omikuji fortunes that came out as "small blessing," which was a somewhat mixed result. At Meiji Shrine, since the chrysanthemum festival was starting the next day, a great number of flowers had already been brought in, so we were able to enjoy viewing them.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayGinza – Ueno-hirokoji～Ueno-okachimachi – Iidabashi286JPY
    Section 2SubwayIidabashi – Ueno-okachimachi～Ueno-hirokoji – Asakusa286JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa – Omotesando～Meiji-jingumae252JPY
    Section 4TrainHarajuku～Shibuya146JPY
    Total970JPY

    Tour Report by Ted

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

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

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

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

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

    A Sake tasting at Sake Cellar can be an option.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day

    Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day

    Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.900 Hotel
    • 2.940 Asakusa
    • 3.1100 Akihabara (playing game)
    • 4.1245Tsukiji & Lunch + oyster+ Tuna
    • 5.1445 Meiji-jingu
    • 6.1545Harajuku Uniqlo shopping,
    • 7.1630Takeshita Street-Ice cream,
    • 8.1715Assics, CAT Street,
    • 9.1745 Onitsuka and finish

    Title: What Is a Private Asakusa and Harajuku Shopping Tour in Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The group was lively, chatting loudly even on the train, so I gave a gentle reminder and they quieted down. On the train and in Asakusa, they took photos everywhere. With this many people, everything took a while. Everyone had different shopping interests, and it always felt like someone was missing. Their shopping requests were individual too — one wanted to buy a down jacket, another wanted a T-shirt, and another wanted sneakers sold only in Japan. It was a challenge to handle, but I was surprised at how patiently they waited whenever one of them was shopping. Their bond of friendship was clearly strong. In the end, we took care of the down jacket and T-shirt at Uniqlo Harajuku, and I took them to Asics and Onitsuka for shoes, which left them satisfied. They took photos everywhere, including some with me, and laughter could be heard throughout the tour. They ate a lot of sushi, saying it would cost three times as much overseas, with a constant stream of "Delicious" and "Super." It was almost like watching a Japanese food TV program. I believe they were fully satisfied.

    Click here for more details: Tsukiji & Asakusa Local Food Tour in 1 Day, Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTameike-sanno～Asakusa209JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Suehirocho178JPY
    Section 3SubwayAkihabara～Tsukiji178JPY
    Section 4SubwayTsukiji～Meiji-jingu286JPY
    Total851JPY

    Tour Report by Kazu

    My name is KAZU HAKATA. 73years old (as of end AUG2025). I started as a guide from March 2023. Graduated from KYOTO Univ Intl Economics and MBA from INSEAD in France. (14 years in overseas, LUX, Paris, Hong Kong) . I used to work in Banking, Telecommunication, Air Line, Financial Trading as CFO. I did more than 150 days of Guide since 2023,Tokyo( most of the Guides), Nikko, Hakone, Kamakura, and other area. Born in Hyogo Pref. I lived 26 years in Kansai and know quite well Kyoto, Nara, Osaka ,Kobe, Wakayama ( Koya san + Kumano Kodo).
    I know not only touristic sites, but I can show you hidden charming points of JAPAN. If you can enjoy your tour in JAPAN, it is also my pleasure. I will do as much as I can to assist you to understand Japanese history, culture, nature, and a real life in JAPAN.
    [FRANCAIS]
    J’ai commencee a Guide apres avoir obtenu Diplome de Francaise en fevrier 2023. Jusqu’a maintenant j’ai effectue plus de 150 guides dont 1/4 francais. Principalement a Tokyo , mais de temps en temps aux Nikko, Kamakura, Kawaguchiko, Hakone, Takayama, Shirakawago, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Okayama, Naoshima.
    A Tokyo, les sites frequentes sont Tsukiji, Hama Rikyu, Asakusa, Jardin Imperial, Rikugi-En , Yanaka, Ueno, Ameyoko, Musee Nationale, Akihabara, Jardin de Korakuen , Harajuku, Sanctuaire de Meiji, ruelle de Tekeshita , Aoyama, Shibuya, Temple de Gotokuji, etc.
    Comme je suis ne a Hyogo ( ouest du Japon) et etudie a Kyoto, Je connais bien Kyoto,Nara,Osaka, Mont Koya, Hieizan. En plus j’ai travaille a Osaka 2017-2019.pendant cette periode j’ai souvent visitee des sites touristiques a Kyoto, Nara, Osaka. J’ai fait les randonnes a Kumono Kodo et 33 temples en Kansai.

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    Apr 4, 2026
    Rebecca_M
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kazu Rocks!!
    Kazu was a gem! From our booking well in advance…

    Oct 19, 2025
    geoffreysE7617EB
    6-hour Tokyo Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    My guide, Kazuyasu Hakata, modified some of the tour,…

    Oct 9, 2025
    zglus
    6 Hr walking Tour
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Kazuyas brought us all around Tokyo and was…

    Sep 26, 2025
    JulieD4351
    We saw the fish market, many shrines, the busy walkway, and much more!
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed…