Kobe Customized Private Tour by Car — Guide Norio

Title: What's a Private Himeji and Kobe Tour with a Car Like? A Licensed Guide's Report

Today's guests were a group visiting from North America, one of whom was visiting Japan for the first time while another had visited Japan several times before. The tour was named the "Kobe Tour with Vehicle," but at the strong request of the guests, it was carried out as an extended tour combining both Himeji and Kobe.

First, we met at the guests' Hotel, and our first destination was Himeji Castle. When one of the guests learned that the main keep of Himeji Castle has seven floors, they decided not to enter it and waited in the Nishinomaru (West Bailey) area instead. For this reason, I guided the other guest alone through the main keep and the smaller keeps, then reunited with the waiting guest at the Nishinomaru before heading to our next destination, Mount Rokko. At Mount Rokko, we went to Tenrandai after having a meal, but one of the guests again chose to wait rather than climb the stairs. I was told that today's tour route had been decided mainly by referring to the opinions of friends.

After Mount Rokko, we headed to the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens. On the way, the guests mentioned, "We're going sightseeing in Kyoto tomorrow, but we're not sure how to get to our hotel in Kyoto." So we stopped by Shin-Kobe Station to purchase Shinkansen tickets before sightseeing at the herb gardens. Today the herb gardens were overflowing with tourists. However, the weather was fine and it was very comfortable.

After visiting the herb gardens, little time remained in the tour, but one of the guests wanted to stop by "the Starbucks in Kitano-cho," so we went to the Starbucks (Kitano Monogatarikan), and after purchasing some souvenirs, we returned to the Hotel and concluded the tour. At the Hotel, I helped arrange a taxi for the next morning with the Hotel staff, and the guests were very pleased.

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Tour Report by Norio

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

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

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

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

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