“Unexpected Highlight of Our Recent Japan Cruise”

Our recent Japan cruise had a lot of big notable port stops like Kyoto, Osaka and Hiroshima. It is an unexpected pleasure to say that Kochi (which is a smaller, more peaceful port stop) was one of our favorite stops, in no small part due to our terrific tour guide Hideo. Even though we had already stopped at previous ports at so many shrines and temples, it was Hideo who taught us the most about Buddhism and how Japanese people today often combine elements of the Shinto and Buddhist religions. On our trip with Hideo, we visited Kochi Castle, Katsurahama Beach and Chikurinji Temple. This last stop was one of my top 2 stops in all of Japan - it was the most serene and beautiful temples I’ve ever seen and there were only a handful of other tourists, making our time more meditative and memorable. Hideo also actioned one of my last minute requests to have a sake tasting by arranging a visit to the Takagi Sake Brewery. What a great day!

“A Journey I’ll Never Forget – Thanks to Hideo”

During my first week in Japan, I was lucky enough to explore the country with Hideo as my guide—and honestly, it turned out to be one of the most beautiful and meaningful parts of my entire trip. From the beginning, he was kind, open, and full of surprising ideas. Anytime I had a question—whether about history, culture, or even the subway system—he answered with patience and clarity. And when I had a spontaneous request like, “Hey, can we check this out?” he always responded with a smile and a simple, “Yeah, sure. Why not?” What stood out most to me was his deep connection to his country. You could feel it in the way he spoke, the stories he told, and the places he chose to share. I didn’t want a guide who would just list facts—I wanted someone who would help me feel Japan. How people live, what brings them joy, how tradition and modern life blend together. That’s exactly what I got. The atmosphere between us was super relaxed—we laughed a lot, shared different perspectives, and even switched between English and Japanese (he gently helped me improve mine). His English is perfect, by the way, so no worries if you don’t speak Japanese. Looking back, I think I was a bit of a different customer. I didn’t want a standard tour; I wanted an experience. And Hideo gave me exactly that. I truly hope I can book him again in the future—maybe next year, maybe the one after, who knows. But when I return with my mother, I already know I’d love to explore the plum blossoms, cherry blossoms, or autumn leaves with Hideo by our side. If you’ve read this far: thank you. I hope you’ll take this little sign as encouragement to start your own journey with Hideo. You won’t regret it. ありがとう ございます, Hideo-san。 あなたの案内は、道を示すだけでなく、心に灯りをともしてくれました。

Hideo Y.

(198 reviews)

I'm so much happy to receive your excellent review. I'm also very glad to hear I could introduce you Japaese culture and life-style. I enjoyed guiding you, too. You are a Japan expert. I was surprised that you already knew the names of Japanese gods and Musahibo Benkei. furthermore you can write Kanji or Chinese character. We had Japanese food such as omu rice or rice omelet, Okonimiyaki or Japanese-style pancake grilled on a iron plate, curry rice, fried pork cutlet, Kobe beef and shaved ice at heat wave. We visit Engyoji Temple, a set of the movie "Last Samurai", and Himeji Castle which is completely different from European-style Castle. We entered hot onsen called "Arima" in Kobe. In Hiroshima, unforunately it was low tide so we couldn't see the Great Vermilion gate look like floating on the sea. Next time I promise I take you to Hiroshima at high tide. I wish you and all your family good health and happiness. I look forward to seeing you next year!

“Second time with hideosan :) ”

As you see, this is second time I used to go wakayama with Hideosan. He is still excellent. He is more aktive , more younger than us:) I am glad to see him again. And hope to see him next time

Hideo Y.

(198 reviews)

I was very happy to see you again. We vsited Kumano Sanzan again. On the tour day it was so clear that we could see the Nachi Waterfall flowing vigorously. I wish you all the best in the future. I hope to see you again next time.