Kamakura Customized Private Tour in 1 Day — Guide Sam

What Is a Private Walking Tour of Kamakura Like? A Licensed Guide's Report

The tour was originally planned for two participants, but as one of the guests was unable to attend on the day, I ended up guiding the remaining guest privately. From the spots the guest had hoped to see, I decided to leave out Meigetsuin, which was out of season, and focus mainly on Zeniarai Benzaiten, Hokokuji Temple, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, and Kotokuin. Given the steep slope in front of Zeniarai Benzaiten, I initially wondered whether we should use a taxi at the start, but the guest walked at a brisk pace, faster than I did, so I felt reassured and planned an itinerary centered mainly on walking. After guiding the guest through Zeniarai Benzaiten, I also took them to the nearby Sasuke Inari Shrine. The restaurant we used for lunch was on the second floor of a building adjacent to the station, a place I had been keeping in mind for some time. This time we had to wait a little because a group of customers had arrived unexpectedly, but since it is close to the station and usually has plenty of seating, I would like to use it again in the future. In the afternoon, after guiding the guest through Kotokuin, we strolled around Hasedera Temple, but as we still had time left, I finally took them to Myohonji Temple and Hongakuji Temple, both close to Kamakura Station. Since the guest was collecting goshuin stamps, I may have been able to contribute a little to their collection. This was the first time I included Zeniarai Benzaiten in an itinerary, and I have listed the cost of incense and candles required when borrowing the basket for washing coins as a reimbursable expense. If this is not eligible, please feel free to omit it.

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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.