Kanagawa (Living), Kamakura, Hakone, Yokohama
Japanese (Native), English
6 hours on average
4 days ago
Hi, I'm Takao Mizushima. I like walking with my friends in the mountains, along rivers and beaches, and visiting historical places and museums. Usually, after enjoying these places, we take a dip in hot springs and drink beer.
As a guide, however, I'll take up places easy to walk around. I assume not many people from abroad are prepared for sweating activities.
If you like, though, I can modify my plan, connecting with a short hiking, hot bath and a drinking place.
1. The fee doesn't include the tourists' transportation fees.
2. The fee doesn't include the tourists' meals or beverages.
3. The fee doesn't include admission charges for visiting places or charges for hands-on activities.
4. Tourists pay the guide's transportation fees.
Bernice L.
Hakone has a rich history as a Edo checkpoint on the “Tokaido”. We began our tour early with a warm sweet beverage and delicious mochi at a historic tea house and then followed Takao onward to walk part of the “ Tokaido” a feudal-era cobblestone road that once joined the former Edo to Kyoto. It was an invigorating, mostly gently inclined, ninety minute walk through a wooded area. Takao is an erudite guide who was able to answer our many questions about the Hakone area and its history. He shared many interesting facts and cultural insights. We eventually emerged at Port Moto-Hakone, where we joined the crowds and boarded a colourful galleon to sail across Lake Ashi. Transferring to the rope car we ascended to Owakudani with spectacular views of Mt Fuji. Continuing on the cable car across to Gora we turn headed down to Hakone-Yamoto for a relaxing spa and sauna at a traditional onsen. The establishment had several spa pools located both inside and outside. My favourite spa pool was outside overlooking a wooded garden. We enjoyed the comfortable pace of the tour and covered many interesting sights. Takao would direct us to the best seats and locations to ensure we had great views. It was most worthwhile to have him as our guide, under his care we were able to capture many perfect photos from this memorable day. We were blessed with fine weather and a perfect view of Mt Fuji. Takao is a kind gentleman, his attention to detail and a well organised itinerary helped us to enjoy a lovely day in Hakone. We highly recommend Takao’s tour for anyone staying at least two nights at Hakone.
Hi, Bernice. Thank you for your kind words and the highest rating for my tour! The hearth in Amasake Chaya Teahouse used to be a place around which family members come together, talking pleasantly. I remember my childhood. I’m glad to have had a happy moment with you and Steve sitting near the hearth. “Ko-more-bi,” or tree-leaking-sun, 木漏れ日, which means the sunlight coming through the tree leaves, was beautiful. I wish we could have dinner wearing Yukata at the Hakone Yuryo Hot Spa! Thank you again, Bernice. Please say hello to Steve. I appreciate his English lessons. Best regards, Takao Mizushima
Raina P.
Mr Takao arrives early to meet us at the hotel lobby. He is friendly, approachable and knowledgeable. On each site, he will explain to you brief history and hand us the necessary brochures. Brought us to buy Temple's charms upon our request, assisting on our specific requirement by communicating with the staff in Japanese. Overall, we enjoy ourselves very much. Thank you Takao, we appreciate your professional services. Will highly recommend to friends and siblings. Best regards. Raina
Thank you, Reina and Zenia, for your kind review. I'll try to improve my listening ability. I've got very interested in your country. I read a book about your country before the tour and wanted to learn from you about your country. My e-mail address is rinrabbitrun@gmail.com. May I ask you your e-mail address so that I'll be able to learn more about your country and you. Best regards, Takao Mizushima
Pauline T.
Takao san is very detailed, & he planned the itinerary well ahead for us. Very caring person and a good guide with good information, Takao san always reply us very promptly. The group are very happy with him. Thank you Takao san. Take care!
Thank you so much for your nice review, Pauline. I’m further encouraged to introduce the beauty and value of sceneries and culture of Japan. We are sure that those young personnel we talked with will recall this trekking as their fond memory in the future, too. Best regards, Takao Mizushima
Meisha R.
I was looking to do something different and Takao's soul-exploring trip was perfect. It was fun doing something a little deeper while visiting the temple versus just walking around and admiring the beauty. I enjoyed the ritual of the Sutru coping and enjoyed having Takao as my guide. He spoke good English and is such a sweet person.
Thank you Meisha for your nice review. Your sutra copying was faster and more accurate than I had imagined. I respect your concentration and enthusiasm. I'm glad that I could have such a customer as you who really showed interest in Japanese culture. Your sincere attitude encourages me to study deeper about the culture of my own country. I'm sure you had a good time at Hokokuji Temple known as Bamboo Temple, too. Please keep enjoying your explaration of Japan! Bon voyage! Best regards, Takao Mizushima