Category: Uncategorized

  • Osaka in Half a Day: Kuromon Market & Shinsekai

    Osaka in Half a Day: Kuromon Market & Shinsekai

    Osaka Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 12:15 Pick up at the Royal Park Canvas Osaka Kitahama
    • 12:15-12:40 Kuromon Market
    • 12:40-13:50 Dotonbori / Hozenji Yokocho Alley
    • 14:00-14:30 Move to Osaka Castle
    • 14:40-15:50 Osaka Castle and stay there.
    • 15:50-16:30 Move to Shinsekai
    • 16:40 End of the tour

    Title: What Is a Private Osaka Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Kuromon Market, Dotonbori, and Shinsekai On this day, a signal malfunction stopped the JR train at Hineno, so I took a taxi to Izumisano Station (traveling all the way to Tennoji would have cost over 10,000 yen, which I did not have on hand), then transferred to the Nankai Line Southern train, and from Tengachaya Station switched to the subway to reach Kitahama Station, where the guests' hotel was located. I informed them by email along the way that I would be late. Because of the danjiri festival, many drivers were absent and taxis were hard to find, which made me anxious, but in the end I arrived only 15 minutes late. Since I extended the tour by 40 minutes at the end, the guests were satisfied. From the start, the guests had asked how much a private car would cost, so I assumed they might not be keen on walking. They did indeed walk slowly and seemed to dislike stairs. Still, they thoroughly enjoyed the food markets and shops at Kuromon Market and Dotonbori. As they wanted to have dinner and drinks somewhere to end the tour, I took them to Shinsekai. They had said they did not feel confident taking the subway on their own, but I taught them the platform for the return train at Ebisucho Station on the Sakaisuji Line, from which they could get back to the hotel without transfers. Later they emailed me happily to say that, even after each having three beers, they were able to take the subway back to the hotel.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassKitahama～Ebisucho620JPY
    Total620JPY

    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 Half a Day: Sensoji Temple & Imperial Palace

    Tokyo in Half a Day: Sensoji Temple & Imperial Palace

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:50　Meet up @ Hotel Sardonyx Tokyo
    • 9:50　Sensoji Temple
    • 11:40　Hamarikyu Gardens
    • 13:20　Imperial Palace
    • 14:10　Disband @ Nijubashimae Station

    What Is a 4-Hour Private Walking Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Hamarikyu Gardens, and the Imperial Palace The guests were visiting Japan for the first time from Oceania. After sightseeing in Tokyo, they planned to visit Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto, and Hiroshima. At Sensoji Temple, they listened with great interest to explanations about the differences between temples and shrines. At Hamarikyu Gardens, they enjoyed the beautiful Japanese garden and had matcha and sweets at the teahouse on the island in the pond. At the Imperial Palace, they listened with interest to historical explanations about the role of the Emperor, the Meiji Restoration, and the Edo Shogunate. The 4-hour tour concluded at the Imperial Palace, but since the guests wished to visit Meiji Shrine and Tokyo Tower on their own, we parted ways at Nijubashimae Station. Since I accommodated the guests' wishes as requested, I believe they were satisfied.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHatchobori～Asakusa600JPY
    Section 2SubwayAsakusa～Shimbashi0JPY
    Section 3TrainShimbashi～Shiodome190JPY
    Section 4TrainShiodome～Shimbashi190JPY
    Section 5TrainShimbashi～Tokyo150JPY
    Total1,130JPY

    Tour Report by Seizo

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

    Request Booking

    Jul 10, 2026
    surferbikerdude1
    Tripadvisor review: Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Beautiful Tour of Kamakura
    Seizo Kamiuto was out…

    Jun 9, 2026
    stacy_grana
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    A wonderful day with an experienced guide
    Our guide, Seizo, was amazing.…

    Jun 6, 2026
    U9351HJjakes
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tokyo Tour
    Seizo Kamiuto was great and super knowledgeable. He had a…

    May 20, 2026
    HugoJ670
    Tripadvisor review: Edo Tokyo & Japanese Culture Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Tokio in de zon
    Seizo Kaminto is een uitstekende…

  • Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1.10:20 Meet up @ Hilton Tokyo
    • 2.11:00 @ Kuramae Plush Toy Shop foo
    • 3.11:30 @ Kaminarimon
    • 4.12:00 Lunch @ Sushi Ken
    • 5.13:00 @ Maikoya Tokyo
    • 6.14:20 Disband @ Hotel

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Tokyo Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Kuramae, and a Sushi Lunch The guests were originally scheduled to arrive by cruise ship and meet at the Hotel at 11:00, but due to a hurricane they had spent seven extra days at sea and had arrived in Yokohama only the day before. Since both the guide and the guests happened to reach the Hotel a little after 10:00, we decided to start the tour early. One of the guests loved Japanese macaques and really wanted to buy a stuffed macaque toy. After some research, I had found a plush toy shop in Kuramae, so we visited there first and purchased the toy. After that, we visited Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple. As the guests had requested sushi for lunch, we ate at a sushi restaurant where I had made a reservation. They said it was amazing as they enjoyed the meal. From 1:00, the guests took part in a kimono photo experience and a tea ceremony experience in Tokyo, which they had booked themselves. The guide was not able to accompany them for that part. They said it was very good. Afterwards, we walked around Asakusa, returned to the Hotel, and parted ways.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayTochomae～Kuramae272JPY
    Section 2SubwayKuramae～Asakura178JPY
    Section 3SubwayAsakusa～Nishi-Shinjuku252JPY
    Total702JPY

    Tour Report by FUMIKO

    Hello, I am Fumiko, an English-speaking Tourist Guide. I have been guiding foreign visitors science 2016. Please let me know your bucket lists whiles you are staying in Japan and what you are interested in. I will make the best plan for you. This is an once in a lifetime experience for you. As for myself, I love traveling, meeting people, eating local food, drinking, history, and art. I am learning Ikebana, traditional Japanese-style flower arrangement, and tea ceremony. I also love sports, especially tennis. I like children, so I can teach them some origami, folding paper. I am looking forward to hearing from you and seeing you in Japan.

    Request Booking

    Jul 27, 2026
    zyarisa
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko tour good vibes only
    Mrs. fumiko was very…

    Jul 23, 2026
    734mortenp
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Nice tour of Tokyo
    Don’t visit Tokyo without a guide! You’ll…

    Jul 10, 2026
    Jessica_A
    Viator review: Tokyo Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
    Fumiko was wonderful. …
    Fumiko was wonderful. You can…

    Jun 28, 2026
    alistairn2016
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Fumiko is a great tour guide – informative, friendly and very well…

  • Kyoto in Half a Day: Karasuma Oike & Karasuma Imadegawa

    Kyoto in Half a Day: Karasuma Oike & Karasuma Imadegawa

    Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:00 Meet up @ Hotel Kyoto Shinmachi Bettei
    • 10:20-10:26 Karasuma Oike → Imadegawa　220 yen　Subway
    • 10:30-11:40 Kyoto Imperial Palace sightseeing
    • 12:00-12:15 Karasuma Imadegawa → Ginkakuji-michi　230 yen　Bus
    • 12:30-13:40 Ginkakuji sightseeing・Philosopher's Path stroll
    • 13:50- 14:05 Travel by taxi
    • 14:05 Disband @ Hotel Kyoto Shinmachi Bettei

    What Is a Private Kyoto Tour of the Imperial Palace and Ginkaku-ji Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were visitors from Europe, and it was their first time in Japan. We visited the Kyoto Imperial Palace and Ginkaku-ji (the Silver Pavilion). At the Kyoto Imperial Palace, I talked about the Japanese imperial system, explaining that it is the world's oldest hereditary monarchy, that the emperor once held absolute authority, and that after democratization following World War II the emperor became a symbol. Since they had visited Nijo Castle the day before, I also explained the historical flow from the Edo shogunate to the Meiji Restoration. At Ginkaku-ji, I spoke about the Muromachi shogunate and the shoguns, as well as the contrast with Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion), and the guests listened with great interest.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayOike～Imadegawa220JPY
    Section 2BusKarasuma Imadegawa～Ginkakuji-michi230JPY
    Total450JPY

    Tour Report by AndyMurao

    Hello! I am Andy Murao. I love this job as I can visit various destinations with the people from all over the world. I am always thinking that I could help you know more about Japan and understand the attractiveness of Japan.

    I would like to provide a tour in accordance with your request and preference. Please let me know what you want to see, eat, experience, etc. and then I will propose a schedule based on them.

    There is one point to note. I like walking very much, so I might be a guide who forces you to take long walks.

    I look forward to attending you in Japan.

    Best regards,

    Andy Murao

    Request Booking

    Jul 13, 2026
    webstere2025
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
    Excellent
    Andy(Atsushi) was great and communicated with us beforehand about our…

    Jun 21, 2026
    Catherine_D
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    First time in Osaka
    Andy was great . On time and patience…

    Jun 6, 2026
    eyeessess
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto Early Morning Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great tour!
    Andy Murao was an amazing and wonderful tour guide.…

    Jun 5, 2026
    Janice_W
    Viator review: Kyoto 9hr Private Tour (Kobe Dep. ) with Licensed Guide
    Great tour of Kyoto
    It was a good tour…

  • Tokyo: Tsukiji Market & Toyosu Market

    Tokyo: Tsukiji Market & Toyosu Market

    Tsukiji & Toyosu Market Local Food Tour with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 7:00 Meet at Hotel Higashi-Shinjuku Tower
    • 8:00 Tsukiji Market
    • 10:00 Toyosu Market
    • 11:00 Disband at Market Station

    Title: What's a Private Tokyo Food Tour of Toyosu Market Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting from North America. They were very friendly and enjoyable to spend time with. They had a deep appreciation of Japanese cuisine and requested sea urchin, octopus, pufferfish, miso-marinated grilled fish, salmon roe, and oysters. Except for the pufferfish, everyone tried these dishes and were very satisfied. The rare cut of tuna I introduced at a sushi restaurant was also enjoyed as unique and delicious. The guests listened attentively to the explanation of the auctions at Toyosu Market and said they wished they could take part in one. After the tour, they had a reservation at teamLab Planets, and we parted ways at the market station. They thanked me warmly, saying they had been able to enjoy so many kinds of delicious food, called me a nice guide, and gave a generous token of thanks.

    Click here for more details: Tsukiji & Toyosu Market Local Food Tour with Licensed Guide

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1SubwayHigashi-Shinjuku～Tsukiji Market272JPY
    Section 2BusRokuchome Rokuchome～Toyosu Station210JPY
    Total482JPY

    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 Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour

    Tokyo Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 1) 13:00 Meet up @ Starbucks Coffee Kokyo Gaien Wadakura Fountain Park Store (3-1 Kokyo Gaien, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo)
    • 2) 13:40 Asakusa <Nakamise-dori・Sensoji Temple>
    • 3) 14:10 Yanaka <Tennoji Temple→Cemetery→Shopping Street→Snake Road>
    • 4) 15:30 Nezu Shrine
    • 5) 16:30 Shiodome, just before Hamarikyu
    • 6) 16:50 Shibuya Crossing
    • 7) 17:30 Dismiss @ Sushi Shoei, 12th floor, Shibuya Scramble Square (2-24-12 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo)

    Title: What's a Private Afternoon Tour of Tokyo Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Asakusa, Yanaka, Nezu, and Shibuya The guests were visitors from North America. Perhaps out of some anxiety, they had contacted me frequently beforehand, mentioning that they would join a morning tour of the Imperial Palace and hoped to visit teamLab Borderless. However, at the meeting point the guests suggested that, since the Borderless tickets were sold out, we visit Tokyo Skytree instead. While on the train, we tried to purchase tickets by smartphone, but it did not work with the card information available, so we ultimately gave up. [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide led this private afternoon tour of Tokyo for guests visiting Japan. After guiding them along Nakamise Street and Senso-ji Temple, we headed to Yanaka. I guided them through Tennoji Temple, the cemetery (the Yanaka Festival was taking place), the shopping street, and Hebi-michi ("Snake Road"). They enjoyed Hebi-michi, including the atmosphere of the local homes (the Nezu-Sendagi Festival was also underway). At Nezu Shrine, many festival stalls lined the grounds, and the crowds were even larger than during the azalea festival. With its nearly 300-year-old main hall and Chinese-style gate, and as the birthplace of the sixth Tokugawa shogun, the shrine was a great favorite with the guests. The conversation flowed nicely, and since one of the guests wanted an ice bar, we stopped at a convenience store near Nezu Station. We then headed toward Hama-rikyu Gardens, created by the father of the same shogun, but after getting off at Shimbashi, I suddenly realized we would not make the final entry at 16:30. On the way to Shimbashi, I had shown photos of the interior of Hama-rikyu and added explanations, so the guests' expectations were at their peak. I explained the situation and apologized profusely at Shiodome, just short of Hama-rikyu. The kind-hearted guests said "don't worry about it," but their expressions showed clear disappointment. Regrouping, we went to the Shibuya crossing, which the guests had been looking forward to. On the first day of a three-day weekend, Shibuya at dusk was extremely crowded, and the crossing was even more impressive than usual. The guests wished to have dinner in Shibuya and then return to their hotel. In front of the JR Shibuya Station ticket gates, I explained the route back from Shibuya to their accommodation in Shin-Okubo, both verbally and via a messaging app (how to buy tickets at the automatic machines, platform numbers, etc.), and had them take photos around the station so they would not get lost. After a short wait for the elevator, I safely guided them to the 12th floor of Shibuya Scramble Square. They said, "We enjoyed walking everywhere," and we took a photo in front of a sushi restaurant before parting ways. Tomorrow morning they will have a free tour in Shinjuku, and in the afternoon they will join a group tour for the rest of the day, so it was clear how much they had been looking forward to today's tour. On this tour starting at 13:00, I sincerely reflected that, between conversations with the guests, I must pay even more attention than usual to time management — especially the final entry times of public facilities.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1Free PassTokyo Metro Tozai Line Otemachi Station～Toei Subway Asakusa Line Asakusa Station900JPY
    Section 2Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Asakusa Station～Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Ueno Station0JPY
    Section 3TrainJR Yamanote Line Ueno Station～JR Yamanote Line Nippori Station150JPY
    Section 4Free PassTokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Nezu Station～Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line Yushima Station0JPY
    Section 5Free PassTokyo Metro Ginza Line Ueno-hirokoji Station～Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Shimbashi Station0JPY
    Section 6Free PassToei Subway Oedo Line Shiodome Station～Tokyo Metro Ginza Line Shibuya Station0JPY
    Total1,050JPY

    Tour Report by Tachi

    Hi! I’m a local guide in Tokyo and have been working as a licensed tour guide for almost 10 years. I love helping guests discover the “real Japan” beyond the guidebooks. I enjoy showing guests both famous sights and places that many tourists miss. My tours are based on your interests and can include not only famous sightseeing spots, but also local neighborhoods, culture, history, and everyday life in Japan. I also help guests enjoy Japanese cultural activities and make communication easier. If you’d like vegan or gluten-free meals, let me help you find suitable restaurants in Tokyo. If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, please feel free to let me know in advance. I look forward to showing you around Tokyo!

    Request Booking

    Jun 19, 2026
    Daniel_O
    Viator review: Tokyo 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    10/10 would do again!
    Our guide, Tachi was incredibly accommodating, friendly, and…

    May 24, 2026
    Meander63637687943
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo Japanese Garden Lover’s Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Tour guide Tachi is the best!
    A most enjoyable and…

    May 19, 2026
    Jai_K
    Viator review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    I would definitely…
    I would definitely recommend this tour. Our guide Tachi…

    May 5, 2026
    Gary33556
    Tripadvisor review: Tokyo 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Wonderful tour of the highlights of Tokyo
    Tachi was our guide. What…

  • Hyogo in Half a Day: Kokoen Garden & Egret Himeji

    Hyogo in Half a Day: Kokoen Garden & Egret Himeji

    Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 10:45 Meet up @ JR Himeji Station
    • 11:15: @ Kokoen Garden
    • 12:00 @ Himeji Castle
    • 14:15 @ Egret Himeji
    • 14:45 Disband @ Himeji Honmachi-dori

    What Is a Private Himeji Castle Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan, and communication before the tour via email proved difficult. The cause was unclear, whether through an agency or a personal email address, but the guests said they had not received the messages. I managed to confirm the itinerary using a messaging app. The guests did not seem to have much interest in each of the spots we visited. More than anything, I felt that communication in English was challenging. My impression was that only about 50% of my explanations were understood. One of the guests seemed to have a strong hobby of taking photographs and took pictures not only at each spot but everywhere along the way. There had also been a prior request for either French or Italian cuisine for lunch, which was the first time I had received such a dining request as a guide. After I looked up information online and explained it, we parted ways. Regrettably, it was a tour that left me without much sense of accomplishment. One thing that concerned me was that the guests believed they had already paid the agency for the admission fees to the castle and the garden as well. They seemed a little doubtful of my explanation that neither Himeji Castle nor Koko-en accepts advance online reservations, so I suggested they confirm with the staff at the entrance counter, and they were finally reassured after hearing the staff's explanation. This too was a first-time experience for me as a guide.

    Click here for more details: Himeji Castle Half-Day Customized Tour with Licensed Guide

    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…

  • Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine & Nijo Castle

    Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 09:00 Meeting point: Hotel Kyoto
    • 09:30 Sightseeing ①: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
    • 10:40 Sightseeing ②: Nijo Castle
    • 11:40 Sightseeing ③: Arashiyama・Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
    • 12:30 Sightseeing ④: Arashiyama・Togetsukyo Bridge
    • 12:45 Lunch・Break
    • 13:30 Sightseeing ⑤: Arashiyama・Tenryu-ji Temple⇒Bamboo Grove Path
    • 14:15 Transfer: Arashiyama⇒Nishiki Market
    • 15:00 Dismissal: In front of Nishiki Market

    Title: What Is a Private Full-Day Kyoto Tour by Car Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guests were a group visiting Japan from North America, traveling on a tour with a private car and driver. The booking details listed "4 adults," but in fact one member of the group was a young child. Prior communication and coordination were handled through a messaging app with one member of the group. During our exchanges, the destinations were decided quickly, but the guests were concerned about crowds at the sites, so a few adjustments were made to the itinerary. For example, lunch was changed from eating while strolling through Nishiki Market to dining at a regular restaurant, and the departure time was moved earlier to 9:00. The original itinerary was Nijo Castle → Arashiyama (Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji Temple, Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple) → Nishiki Market → Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. On the day of the tour, I arrived at the hotel 30 minutes early, confirmed the arrival of the private car ten minutes later, contacted the guests via a messaging app, and waited for them in the lobby. Although we started about five minutes behind schedule, I met the entire group and we boarded the private car right away. Before departing, the driver advised, "Since there is a major festival at Fushimi Inari, heavy crowds are expected, especially in the afternoon, so why not visit Fushimi Inari first?" As a result, we changed the first destination to Fushimi Inari. This turned out to be a major factor in making the rest of the day's tour go smoothly. Although the sun was out on this day, the air was dry and, especially in the shade, there was a cool, autumn-like feeling, making for a comfortable tour. At Nijo Castle the guests could feel the sense of history, and in Arashiyama they were able to fully enjoy various forms of natural beauty. In the end, we ran out of time and were not able to guide them directly through Nishiki Market itself, but the guests were still able to thoroughly enjoy sightseeing in Kyoto. At first, the youngest member of the group was shy and would only smile bashfully when spoken to, but by the latter half of the day they began responding to my questions. Tours with young children require extra care in many respects, but once you build a rapport, they can become truly enjoyable tours.

    Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Nori

    Hi, everyone! I’m Norifumi Kamon, a government registered guide interpreter. Please call me “Nori”, or “Kamon-san”.
    Let me introdece myself. I was born on April 17th in 1952 in Miyazaki prefecture in Kyushu island. I used to be an English teacher of Osaka Prefectural high school. When I retired from a teacher ten years ago, I decided to get a professional guide license. I wanted to play a role of the bridge between Japanese people and the people from all over the world as a second life of mine. After two years efforts, I finally got the guide license. Since then, I have guided several handreds of foreign people mainly in Kyoto and Nara for about five years except Corona Pandemic period. Almost all the tourists were deeply impressed by the beauty of nature, traditoin, culture, and art of Japan. I can surely help you enjoy and be satisfied with the sightseeing in Japan. And I’m looking forward to seeing you soon.

    Request Booking

    Apr 9, 2026
    Ron_W
    Viator review: Osaka 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    We saw so much in the…
    We saw so much in the…

    Mar 24, 2026
    zackn719
    Tripadvisor review: Nara 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Knowledgeable guide and a great tour
    We did our private tour with…

    Oct 20, 2025
    66speech
    Highlights of Kyoto.
    Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
    Great experience with Nori. Nori exceeded our expectations with…

    Oct 16, 2025
    Michael_H
    Thoroughly enjoyed the…
    Viator review: Osaka Off the Beaten Path 6hr Private Tour with Licensed Guide
    Thoroughly enjoyed the day out…

  • Wakayama in Half a Day: Get off bus at Daimon

    Wakayama in Half a Day: Get off bus at Daimon

    Mt. Koya Sacred Sites Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 11:30 Meet at Koyasan Station
    • 11:46 Board bus
    • 11:56 Get off bus at Daimon
    • 　　　Visit Daimon
    • 12:05
    • 　　　Nyonindo walk
    • 12:35 Arrive at Danjo Garan/Hasuike (Lotus Pond)
    • 　　　Visit Lotus Pond
    • 13:00 Board bus in front of Kondo (move to lunch)
    • 13:05 Get off at Rengedani
    • 　　　Brief visit to Mani Treasure Pagoda
    • 　　　Lunch
    • 13:40 Okunoin walk/Daishi Gobyo (Mausoleum)
    • 15:35 Board bus in front of Okunoin
    • 15:44 Get off bus in front of Kondo
    • 　　　Visit Danjo Garan
    • 16:00 Walk to Kongobuji Temple
    • 　　　Visit Kongobuji Temple (outdoor)
    • 16:10 Disband (guests purchase souvenirs)

    Title: What Is a Private One-Day Tour of Koyasan Like? A Licensed Guide's Report The guest was able to walk around comfortably throughout the day. Since the red spider lilies were in full bloom, I picked some on the way to Koyasan to explain that these were the flowers visible from the train window, intending to discard them afterward, but the guest found them unusual and held onto them for the entire tour. Thanks to the morning rain, mist settled over the area, giving the forest a wonderfully mystical atmosphere. At the Daimon Gate, the guest listened attentively to the history of its construction, its role as the main entrance, and its connection to the Nyonin-do (women's pilgrimage path). We then walked about 1 km along the Nyonin-do to the Danjo Garan. Since the guest lives in a large city, I let them enjoy the silence of the mountain trail where we met no one. In front of the Danjo Garan and the Kondo Hall, as we had 20 minutes before the bus, I had the guest visit the lotus pond and explained the history of the syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism. We moved toward the Okunoin area for lunch. After getting off the bus, we briefly visited the Mani Stupa. Although its cultural authenticity is questionable, I gave a simple explanation of the history of Japan's invasion of Myanmar, the film "The Bridge on the River Kwai," and the buddhas and bodhisattvas of Theravada Buddhism, and the guest also experienced the eerie sensation of the pitch-dark underground chamber. Since many shops are closed on Tuesdays, we had to compromise on lunch. The guest was deeply moved by the unique scenery found only in Koyasan at Okunoin, and I made sure they did not miss any photo opportunities, deciding to shorten the later part of the itinerary accordingly. We took our time viewing the lanterns and other features at the Gobyo mausoleum of Kobo Daishi. We moved by bus to the Danjo Garan and made a full round of the main facilities. We then walked to Kongobuji Temple, viewed it from the outside, and finished there. The guest was dismissed to buy souvenirs.

    Click here for more details: Mt. Koya Sacred Sites Half-Day Tour with Licensed Guide

    Tour Report by Hira

    I grew up in the mountain village. I learned many things from my family, especially my grandmother. I can give you many interesting experiences in the wild nature. We eat wild strawberries or “Sukanpo ” the edible grass, fly ferns or cross a suspension bridge.
    I walked all of Kumano Kodo, Koyasan pilgrimage roads and other ancient highways, total length is more than 600km ( 400 miles).
    I want you to show the interesting spots beyond the guide book. Kii mountain range has old history as well as beautiful land scapes. I’ll take you the excellent places you can do Facebook bragging.
    My experiences for guiding foreigners are, town of Koyasan, pilgrimage road to Koyasan, Kumano Kodo Nakahechi, hot springs, Shingu city and Nachi Katsuura town, Kushimoto area, Shirahama area so on.
    I wish to meet you soon!

    Request Booking

    May 12, 2025
    andrewgT8079NS
    Wonderful guide and magical scenery and locations.
    Tripadvisor review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip with Government Licensed Guide
    Wonderful, interesting…

    Apr 29, 2025
    farmahel
    A truly magnificent journey through the Kumano Kodo with a wonderfully kind Hira
    Tripadvisor review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip…

    Apr 27, 2025
    Sofia_N
    Had a great time. Guide…
    Viator review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip with Government Licensed Guide
    Had a great time.…

    Mar 23, 2025
    G
    GoPlaces681850
    Wonderful time with a local.
    Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Our guide, Hira,…

  • Hiroshima in One Day: Five-story pagoda

    Hiroshima in One Day: Five-story pagoda

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

    October, 2024

    Tour Itinerary

    • 8:40 Meet up at Hiroshima Station Shinkansen platform
    • 9:20 Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Memorial Park
    • 　　Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
    • 11:50 Lunch　
    • 13:00 Arrive at Miyajima, visit Itsukushima Shrine,
    • 14:00 Five-story pagoda
    • 　　　Omotesando shopping street
    • 15:00 Ferry, JR
    • 15:50 Disband at Hiroshima Station

    Title: What Is a Private Day Trip to Hiroshima and Miyajima Like? A Licensed Guide's Report Today's guests were a group visiting from North America. They arrived in the morning by shinkansen from Kyoto and planned to return to Osaka by shinkansen in the evening. After confirming the time of their return shinkansen, we started the tour. We began at the Atomic Bomb Dome in the Peace Memorial Park, then visited the Peace Memorial Museum, and finally Itsukushima Shrine. They had experienced rain every day in Tokyo, and Mount Fuji had been hidden by clouds, so they were delighted with the good weather in Hiroshima. At Itsukushima Shrine, the contrast between the blue sky and sea and the red color of the shrine was wonderful, and everyone was smiling throughout. The guests were interested in many things, and with a small group we were able to have deep conversations about Japanese customs and religion as well as their own family history. Although it was a day trip, they went home very satisfied, which made me happy.

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

    Transportation cost per person

    No.TransportationRouteFare
    Section 1TrainHiroshima～Hiroshima150JPY
    Section 2BusPeace Memorial Park～Koi220JPY
    Section 3TrainNishi-Hiroshima～Miyajimaguchi330JPY
    Section 4TrainMiyajimaguchi～Hiroshima420JPY
    Total1,120JPY

    Tour Report by Yuka

    My name is Yuka Yoshida. I am a Hiroshima Government Licensed Guide Interpreter. I was born and raised in Tokyo. I lived in the U.K. and the U.S. for 10 years, when I had chances to travel different cities in those countries, as well as India, Ghana, Canada. I had wonderful experiences in different cultures and environments there. Since I moved to Hiroshima 18 years ago, I was intrigued by this city, especially Miyajima Island. I love outdoors and playing tennis. I started working as a tourist guide in 2024. I am passionate and enthusiastic about working as a guide, because it gives me enjoyable opportunities of meeting and talking with people and learning new things. I used to work in an elementary school for 13 years as an English teacher. It was a wonderland where classroom atmosphere changed every year so much. With this background, I am versatile to adapt myself to any situations and flexibly accommodate guest’s requests. As a guide, I frequently visit monuments in the Peace Memorial Park, including the Atomic Bomb Dome and the Peace Memorial Museum, and the magnificent Itsukushima shrine on Miyajima Island.

    Let me tell you briefly about Hiroshima. Hiroshima prefecture is located in western Japan, facing the Seto Inland Sea to the south. There is a famous Japanese garden, Shukkeien Garden in the middle of the city. It was built as a garden for the villa of Nagaakira Asano, the lord of Hiroshima Castle during the early Edo period (1603-1868). You will be surprised to see how peaceful and relaxing the garden is when you browse there. It’s not a huge garden, but it presents a wonderful landscape of a traditional Japanese garden and different beautiful colors every season.

    Hiroshima prefecture is unique, having two World Heritage Sites.

    One of them is the Atomic Bomb Dome. As you can see, Hiroshima is a city of many attractions today, but it is also the place where the world’s first atomic bomb was used on August 6, 1945, near the end of the World War II. The atomic bombing destroyed Hiroshima City completely, killing approximately 140,000 people that was about 40 percent of Hiroshima’s population at that time by the end of 1945. You will be amazed at how the city of Hiroshima has been rebuilt since then. Our tour will visit the monuments in the Peace Memorial Park and provide you with rich information that you cannot find in any guidebook.

    By joining this visit, I am sure that you will better understand why the people of Hiroshima hope for the peaceful world so fervently.
    The other World Heritage Site is Itsukushima Shrine. The entire island of Miyajima is one of the three most beautiful scenic spots in Japan. It is a very popular tourist attraction in the Seto Inland Sea area which is also designated as a national park for its beauty. Itsukushima Shrine has a long history going back to the 6th century. It is very unique and outstanding architecture which attracted people from the ancient time. The shrine and the Big Gate, O-torii, are must-sees.

    Regarding food, Hiroshima offers delicious oysters. On Miyajima Island, you can enjoy shopping on the Omotesando street (a main street) which gives you opportunities to eat out, not only grilled oysters but also some local sweets, such as Momiji-manju (that is like a sponge cake sweets with a shape of maple leaf), lemon beverages and so on. Another delicacy is Okonomiyaki, savory pancakes with a lot of vegetables with your choice of numerous toppings which you should definitely try.

    I truly hope that your trip in Hiroshima will be a memorable one. I am so thrilled and delighted to see that every guest is satisfied with this tour. Please feel free to contact me for your customized tour. I will do my best to make your tour very special and memorable for your lifetime.

    Request Booking

    Mar 30, 2026
    m2k0pp
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Excellent Hiroshima Experience!
    Very interesting full day with guide…

    Sep 29, 2025
    414elizeh
    Excellent tour guide!
    Tripadvisor review: Miyajima Half-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Yuka made our outing a perfect day of…

    Apr 1, 2025
    samwcook21
    Great day in Hirsoshima
    Viator review: Hiroshima / Miyajima Full-day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
    Yuka was great! We enjoyed…

    Oct 18, 2024
    jreiter100
    Inspirational Day in Hiroshima
    Tripadvisor review: Hiroshima City 4hr Private Walking Tour with Licensed Guide
    We thoroughly enjoyed our half day…