Are your tours private?
Most of our tours are private and are designed exclusively for your group. This allows us to adjust the pace and itinerary according to your interests and travel plans. Please check each tour description for details.
Who will be my guide?
All of our guides are Japanese, and most were born and raised in Hiroshima. Most are nationally or regionally licensed guides with deep local knowledge and a strong personal connection to Hiroshima. More than simply sharing facts, our guides aim to welcome every guest with warmth, passion, and genuine care, while helping you gain a deeper understanding of Hiroshima, Miyajima, and the people who call this region home.
Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes. Our private tours are flexible and can be adjusted to your interests, walking pace, arrival time, and travel plans. Please let us know your preferences in advance.
Can I visit both Hiroshima and Miyajima in 5–6 hours?
We do not recommend visiting both Hiroshima and Miyajima in only 5–6 hours.
Travel between Hiroshima and Miyajima takes approximately one hour each way, depending on the route and traffic conditions. As a result, trying to include both destinations in a short tour usually means spending a large part of the day in transit and having very limited time at each site.
For a meaningful and relaxed visit to both Hiroshima and Miyajima, we generally recommend at least 7–8 hours.
If you have only 5–6 hours, we recommend focusing on either Hiroshima or Miyajima. In some cases, a shortened itinerary may be possible, but it would include only a few highlights and offer very little flexibility.
We prefer to give our guests enough time to understand and appreciate each place rather than rush through both destinations.
Are your tours suitable for children?
Yes. Our private tours are suitable for families with children and can be adjusted to suit your family’s pace and interests. You can enter the number and ages of children when booking. Please let us know if your child requires any special assistance or accommodations.
How much walking is involved?
The amount of walking depends on the tour and itinerary. Most tours involve moderate walking, but the pace can be adjusted for private tours. Please let us know in advance if you have any mobility concerns.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
We will do our best to recommend suitable restaurants for guests with dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other requirements. Please let us know in advance, as options may be limited in some areas.
Are admission fees included in the tour price?
Yes. Admission fees listed in the tour description are included. Transportation costs, meals, and other personal expenses are not included unless otherwise stated.
Is transportation included in the tour price?
Transportation costs are generally not included in the tour price unless otherwise stated. Your guide will help you use the most convenient transportation option based on the itinerary.
Where will I meet my guide?
We can meet you at Hiroshima Station, your hotel in central Hiroshima, the cruise terminal, or another agreed location. When booking, you can select your preferred meeting point from the available options. If your location is not listed, please enter it in the designated field. For pickups at Itsukaichi Port, an additional fee of ¥2,000 applies and is payable in cash on the day of the tour.
Can cruise passengers join your tours?
Yes. We welcome guests arriving at Hiroshima Port and Itsukaichi Port. We can adjust the itinerary according to your ship’s arrival and departure times and will plan the tour with a safe return time in mind.
What languages are available?
Our tours are mainly offered in English by our local Japanese guides. Other languages may be available through trusted external guides, depending on availability.
What happens if the date I want is unavailable on the website?
Even if your preferred date appears unavailable online, please contact us directly by email or WhatsApp. In some cases, we may be able to arrange another guide or offer an alternative option.
What is your cancellation policy?
The following cancellation fees apply:
• Less than 24 hours before the tour: 100% of the tour price
• Less than 3 days before the tour: 60% of the tour price
• Less than 7 days before the tour: 40% of the tour price
• 7 days or more before the tour: No cancellation fee
Tours normally operate in light rain. However, if we determine that the tour cannot be operated safely due to severe weather, transportation disruptions, or other unavoidable circumstances, the tour may be cancelled and a full refund will be provided.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours normally operate in light rain. If we determine that severe weather or transportation disruptions make it unsafe or impossible to operate the tour, we will contact you as soon as possible and provide a full refund.
Do you arrange tours for travel agencies and groups?
Yes. Local Gem Tour Hiroshima also operates as a local land operator. We welcome inquiries from travel agencies, tour operators, schools, companies, and other groups. We can arrange private buses and other transportation, coordinate with local experiences and activities, and create customized itineraries based on your group size, schedule, interests, and needs. Please contact us directly for a customized proposal.