This is a private guided tour report by Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.), a network of 1,000+ government-licensed, English-speaking local guides across all 47 prefectures of Japan. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.
Tour Itinerary
- We conducted the tour according to the plan agreed upon with the guest in advance.
- 10:00 Meet just outside of the cruise ship "Norwegian Spirit" (taxi side). I will wait for you before 10:00 holding the board with your name "Patrick Grady" on it
- 10:07 – 10:31 Subway ride to Nagoya Castle Nagoya Castle
- 10:40 – 12:00 Tour at Nagoya Castle (Admission 500 Yen per person)
- 12:00 – 12:30 Subway ride to Atsuta Jingu (Taxi ride for 20 min. is an alternative: 3500 Yen)
- 12:30 – 13:30 Tour at Atsuta Shrine Atsuta Jingu
- 13:30 – 14:00 Subway rides to Nagoya port
What Is a Private Nagoya Castle Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report
Thanks to being able to confirm the itinerary carefully in advance with the guests by email, this became a very smooth and enjoyable tour. I had also been informed beforehand that one of the guests would be walking with a cane, so I was able to guide them smoothly toward elevators and escalators, and the tour was completed without placing a heavy burden on them, which was excellent. Nagoya Castle was very crowded today, and the main Honmaru Palace had a 40-minute wait, so we had to give up on visiting it, but I believe the guests were satisfied with my explanations of the other highlights. The guests listened with great interest to all of the various explanations, and I am truly grateful to them. In addition, setting up a route that could be completed entirely with just the all-day free pass (870 yen) was a key factor in carrying out the tour smoothly.
Click here for more details: Nagoya Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
Transportation cost per person
| No. | Transportation | Route | Fare |
| Section 1 | Free Pass | Nagoya Port～Nagoya Castle → Atsuta Jingu → Nagoya Port | 870JPY |
| Total | 870JPY | ||
Welcome to Japan! I’m your friendly guide based in Nagoya.
Hello! My name is Hiroshi, and I’m a nationally licensed English-speaking guide based in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture.
I studied and worked in the United States for six years, so I speak fluent and natural English. More importantly, I understand Western culture and what international guests look for in a great travel experience.
I have lived in Nagoya and the surrounding area for over 20 years, so I know this region inside and out. My specialties are Nagoya city and the Nakasendo trail, including the historic post towns of Tsumago-juku and Magome-juku in the beautiful Kiso Valley. I’m passionate about local history, culture, and traditions—and I love sharing these stories in a fun and engaging way.
Guests often tell me they appreciate my warm smile, positive attitude, and personalized approach. I always take time to understand your interests and needs so I can tailor each tour and make it truly memorable.
Whether you’re interested in samurai history, local food, scenic nature, or off-the-beaten-path spots, I’ll make sure you experience the real charm of Japan with comfort and joy.
Let’s explore together—I can’t wait to show you around!
Jul 21, 2026
ellennyg_rdr2022
Tripadvisor review: Nakasendo Magome & Tsumago in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Would recommend!
Great experience! Very professional guide named Hiroshi.…
Jul 21, 2026
ellennyg_rdr2022
Tripadvisor review: Nakasendo Magome & Tsumago in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Would recommend!
Great experience! Very professional guide named Hiroshi. We had been in Japan for over two weeks, and had gathered loads of questions during that time. Great to be able to question such a knowledgeble man about everything.
The trail was wonderful. Beautiful scenery with an interesting history. Would recommend to everyone who likes a hike and enjoys japanese history/culture!
Jun 17, 2026
mayo773
Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
Highly recommended!
Hiroshi was personable and knowledgeable. His anecdotes added…
Jun 17, 2026
mayo773
Tripadvisor review: Nagoya Half-day Private Custom Tour with National Licensed Guide
Highly recommended!
Hiroshi was personable and knowledgeable. His anecdotes added a personal touch to the
tour. We really enjoyed our time with him. We highly recommend requesting him!
Apr 15, 2026
Brad_T
Wonderful day on the trail!
Viator review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
We had wonderful day…
Apr 15, 2026
Brad_T
Wonderful day on the trail!
Viator review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
We had wonderful day on the trail with Hiroshi. You can easily do the trail on your own, but we learned so much about Japanese history and culture it made the beautiful walk much more enjoyable. He also helped with transportation and reserved a delicious lunch on the trail. Highly recommend
Sep 24, 2025
Paula S
A great walk with Hiroshi
Tripadvisor review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Trail Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide
Hiroshi was a…
Sep 24, 2025
Paula S
A great walk with Hiroshi
Tripadvisor review: Magome & Tsumago Nakasendo Trail Day Hike with Government-Licensed Guide
Hiroshi was a great tour guide. He was knowledgeable and passionate about the trail and
area and helped us to keep a good but relaxed pace so we could see key sites.