Temples, gardens and tea. And a mountain! - The whole day was an extremely enjoyable and enlightening experience, as Pure Water, an officially licenced Japanese Tour guide, had done so much groundwork to ensure that everything we wanted to see ( on our very particular list) was included. Yet his meticulous program allowed us to visit all the important places in a timely and unhurried fashion. We loved everything we saw and did, and would absolutely recommend Pure Water as a guide for an individualised tour. Pure Water was aware one of us was slightly injured and adjusted things accordingly, without missing anything. He was considerate of our interests and was very knowledgeable about all the relevant sites. His excellent English was beneficial in the museum visit especially in translating signage there. We loved the (very arduous) hike up Mt Haguro; visiting pivotal temples and shrines and collecting goshuin (temple stamps); and the aesthetic vegetarian lunch he suggested and arranged was delicious and unforgettable. As was the Gyokusenji temple, stunning gardens and matcha tea sitting. A personal favourite was ancient Koutaku-ji temple and surrounds, yet the entire day was special. Sake tasting always a fun thing, too! Pure Water made the day memorable, for all his research in arranging everything; in taking the time to get to know us beforehand by email. Would definitely utilise his services for our next visit.

Summited mt haguro and visit to Kamo aquarium famous for jellyfish collection - Our guide is kayoko san. She makes good effort to ensure our trip is comfortable. She met us at our hotel near Yamagata station so that she can go with us to tsuruoka which is long bus ride away. Though it was drizzling our climb to the summit was enjoyable. After we summited mt haguro we went to Kama aquarium which is famous for its jellyfish collection. The overall coordination for buses to different places was seamless thanks to our guide. Overall good experience.