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Japan Private Tours & Local Tour Guides
Plan a Trip to Japan with Local Tour Guides, and Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and More.
Popular Japan Tour Destinations
Popular Japan Tour Guides
Raphaël P.
Motto: "Learn, Move, Share. Daily!" Smily Family Man - Adventure Seeker - Creative Soul (Photo/Music/Cooking) - Polyglot - Globe Trotter - Fitness Enthusiast - Bookworm - Kanazawa Lover. _ Hello Explorers! Are you ready to discover Kanazawa like never before? I'm here to guide you on an exceptional journey through this captivating city. Since settling in Kanazawa in 2019 with my Japanese wife and our children, I've deeply integrated local life into the fabric of my tours. For me, this city is not just a place I work—it's my home. My diverse background in the service industry, from hospitality to performing arts, ensures that your experience will be both enriching and seamless. Prepare for picture-perfect moments, delectable local eats, insightful answers to your curiosities, and delightful tips that will enrich your stay beyond measure! Choose to explore Kanazawa with me, and let's create memories as rich and vibrant as the city itself!
Yoji K.
Hello, I'm Yoji, based in Kanazawa. I spent my formative years in Kanazawa and pursued my master's degree in the United States. Having lived in Washington D.C. and California for six years, I then resided and worked in China and various Southeast Asian countries. My passion lies in exploring new destinations and connecting with people worldwide. Now, it's my turn to extend the same hospitality I've received to you. I specialize in crafting personalized tours tailored to your interests and preferences. If you're a food enthusiast, you've come to the right place. For those seeking to delve into Japan's rich history and culture, I highly recommend joining my full-day tour in Kanazawa. Additionally, I offer tours to Shirakawago and Takayama. Let's embark on an unforgettable journey together.
Yoko M.
Hello. I'm Yoko Miyake. Please call me Yoko. I'm a licensed guide. I love travelling. I have visited all the prefectures in Japan. Though Japan has many good places to visit, I hope many foreign travellers will visit my hometown Kurashiki and enjoy their stay there. Because I was born in Kurashiki, and I have lived there since then, I know a lot about Kurashiki. Of course I can show you other good places in Okayama Prefecture and near Okayama Prefecture.
Mika S.
My name is Mika, a local guide living in Takamatsu city. I have been an English teacher, but the Setouchi International Art Festival awakened me to the joy of guiding. The more I learn about the Seto Inland Sea region, the more I am impressed by its life, history, architecture and art works. So, I would like to show you the spectacular scenery that you may have missed in guidebooks alone, and the sights that have yet to be introduced in guidebooks. In Kagawa Prefecture, island tours are also very popular, such as Naoshima, Teshima, and Inujima, which are sacred places for contemporary art, and I think you can better understand the connection between the history of the islands and art by touring with a guide. Of course, I would also like to introduce fresh harvest from the Seto Inland Sea, delicious local food, and shopping for folk crafts in the Takamatsu shopping arcade, which will satisfy you fully as a highlight of your journey.
New Japan Tour Guides
Shoten S.
Hello, my name is Shoten, please call me Sho. I was born in a local area in Toyama prefecture. I majored in civil engineering at a college and am interested in historical infrastructures. After graduation, I continued to study English at a local English circle. In international activities, I also guided foreign people around Toyama Prefecture, Ishikawa Prefecture, and Gifu Prefecture. After retirement, I work as a guide interpreter and a translator. The Hokuriku region has many sightseeing spots, including beautiful landscapes like Kenrokuen Garden and Tateyama, tasty food like traditional Kaga dishes and fresh seafood from Toyama Bay, and traditional crafts like Takaoka copperware and Inami woodcarving. I introduce these spots and historical infra tourism, such as the Kurobe dam and industrial tourism. I look forward to welcoming you to the Hokuriku region.
Hirohiko S.
Hello! I’m Hiro, and I’m excited to share my love for Japan with travelers worldwide. I have a passion for anime and the peaceful beauty of the Japanese countryside. Born in Japan, I’ve also lived in the U.S. and India, giving me a broad cultural perspective. While I have a reserved and easygoing nature, I enjoy meeting new people and building genuine connections. I’m a car enthusiast and love exploring rural roads, though I’ve also worked in Japan’s bustling cities like Tokyo and Osaka. Whether you want a relaxed countryside tour or to discover hidden gems, I’ll help make your journey memorable. I look forward to guiding you on an unforgettable adventure in Japan!
Yacine Z.
I've been living in Japan since 2016. I speak fluent Japanese and work as a translator in addition to my guiding activities. I'd be delighted to guide you around the Kansai region, which includes Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe and Nara, among others. I've been lucky enough to guide over 200 people since I started guiding, and I hope to be able to share my passion for Japan with as many people as possible. I'm available for half-day or full-day tours. Tours are available in English or French, depending on your preferences.
Yoichi I.
Welcome to Japan. My name is Yoichi. I have over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, especially in tours and stays for inbound visitors to Japan, including accompanying teams to the 2020 Tokyo Olympic games and various international sporting events, as well as onsite international conferences. On private tours, I can take you to Asakusa, Tsukiji, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Hakone, and other famous places in Tokyo, as well as Japanese-style food tours such as ramen and izakaya tours. I am also good at shopping tours, so if there are many things you want, I can guide you efficiently. I can arrange tours according to your wishes and can also arrange tours to Kyoto, Osaka, or other cities. I look forward to meeting you in Japan and look forward to hearing from you.
Popular Japan Private Tours
Kanazawa Magic: Bamboo Forest, Geisha D., Gold, Sweet Treats & More!
Starting Time: 7:00 to 10:00am. In this particular 6-hour Walking Tour, We explore some of the magic of Kanazawa. It promises a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, quirky stories, and delightful culinary experiences! <Bamboo forest / Riverside walk / Geisha districts / Old Tea house / Ninja Temple / Kutani Ceramics / Kanazawa Delights [Golden Ice cream / Fluffy Pancakes / Matcha Tea / Kaga Tea / Famous Omu Rice Omelet] / Perfect Photo Spots / Surprise.
Kanazawa Must-See Places One Day Tour
I am originally from Kanazawa and I would like to tailor your Kanazawa tour only for you. Kanazawa is different from cosmopolitan cities like Tokyo and Osaka, but you can see well preserved Japanese culture and history. Please feel free to contact me what you want to visit and see. I will make an itenerary based on your request. Here is my propsosed itinerary but I am very flexible on it.
Art Island "Naoshima” one day trip
Naoshima is an art island. There are good art museums in this island, Chichu Art Museum, Benesse House Museum, Valley Gallery, Lee Ufan Museum, and so on. Art House Project in Honmura Area is also interesting. Some of them are made by a Japanese architect, Tadao Ando. They are very wonderful. You can enjoy outside works in the island. The most famous outside works are two red and yellow pumpkins by Yayoi Kusama.
Takamatsu Full-day Customized Tour
The highlight of this tour is a visit to Takamatsu Castle Ruin, which was one of three seaside castles, and a stroll through beautiful Ritsurin Garden where you can experience a boat ride and green tea as the feudal lords loved to do. You can also stroll through the lively shopping district that developed as a castle town. Be sure to try Sanuki udon noodle, a local delicacy. Or as a plan B, you can visit Yashima district which offers very rich cultural experience in Takamatsu city.
New Japan Private Tours
Geisha tour with a kimono guide
Walk around the biggest geisha-living area with a guide in Kimono. Kyoto has 5 different geisha areas and they all keep old tradition, which may look too primitive to you. Let's find out Japanese walking culture.
Osaka’s Hot Combo of Two Toutist Destination
How about quickly visiting two famous tourist attractions? Dotonbori is the popular shopping and restaurant district of Osaka to maximize your time in Osaka, lined with giant 3D signs and Glico neon sign. The other is Kuromon Market. We can walk to the market in about 10 minutes from Dotonbori area.It has everything from fresh fish to Japanese fine fruits. Let’s enjoy food crawl！
Eastern Tokyo Tour: Taito, Chuo, and Minato
Explore Eastern Tokyo with our tour, beginning at Kaminarimon Gate in Asakusa, leading to Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise-dori. Stroll along the Sumida River to admire the Asahi Beer Building. Relax in Ueno Park, delve into Akihabara’s tech scene, and visit Tsukiji Outer Market. Experience traditional Japan at Hamarikyu Park and Zojoji Temple, where you can see Tokyo Tower in the distance. The tour is optimized by proximity, ensuring a smooth and efficient exploration of this vibrant part of Tokyo.
Beautiful Kanazawa Tour - Full Day
Kanazawa has a lot of historical and beautiful spots. I will show you the best spots in Kanazawa city. We go to Buke Yashiki, Kanazawa Castle Park, Kenrokuen Garden, Lunch, Higashi Chaya District. The Itinery is one of example. I can customize this tour for you.
Popular Japan Private Cars
【PRIVATE CAR TOUR】A full day tour to UNESCO World Heritage, SHIRAKAWAGO & Old town, TAKAYAMA
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site Shirakawago, renowned for its breathtaking Gassho-style thatched-roof houses, offering a glimpse into Japan's rural life and traditions. Then we go to Takayama boasting a beautifully preserved Edo Period historical center called 'Sannomachi'. Wander its charming streets lined with Edo Period buildings housing museums, galleries, sake breweries, and craft shops. Immerse yourself in Japan's rich history and traditional charm.
Kyoto Early Bird Highlights with Car Service
Join me on this tour as we explore four of Kyoto's must-see sights, starting early to beat the crowds. You'll enjoy the convenience of transportation between locations, with your knowledgeable guide driving you to each site. This allows you to save valuable time and energy for fully immersing yourself in the beauty and history of each location.
Private Car Tour - Enjoy the authentic castle towns and famous Oumi beef just outside Kyoto
First, while it is early enough, we will drive and hike a little bit on the ancient steps to one of the oldest temples in Kyoto and Shiga called Hyakusaiji. After that, we will explore a castle that has a tower that is one of the five originals remaining in Japan, Hikone Castle. We will enjoy Oumi beef for lunch. Oumi beef is if not better, as good as Kobe beef known as one of the three best beefs in Japan. We will enjoy the scenery in Oumihachiman from the mountain top and the old moat.
Visit to NANZOIN Temple
The guardian deity Fudo Myoo and the 41m (or 134 ft) long bronze reclining Budda statue are must-sees In Japan, Buddhism and Shinto coexist. I will explain the coexistence of the two religions.
Japan Tour Reviews
“An amazing tour of west Tokyo”
Kahoko led our party through an amazing 7 hour tour of West Tokyo. We could not thank her enough by the end of the day (24,000 steps!). My daughter planned key sites that she thought her 10 year old daughter would appreciate in the Shinjuku district, so we worked with Kahoko to formulate an efficient itinerary for a one day tour. Kahoko has experience in the service industry and is quite comfortable leading adults and children. She spoke clearly and understandably in English, paying attention to our every need, including our 10 year old's, making sure we all felt included and engaged. We met in the Hilton Shinjuku. After she made sure we had all our supplies: a hat, water and suntan lotion, we left for the subway on time. The outside temperature was about 35C (over 95F), with high humidity so we had to be prepared with the right clothing as well. Kahoko brought us ICOCA cards, which are cash cards like SUICA except these have English instructions for reloading money. Getting on and off the subway with these cards is very smooth and efficient. The cards can also be used on trains and in stores, like 7-11. We used over 1000 yen in one day traveling on the subway. Kahoko made us feel very comfortable throughout, herding us into the shade where possible and ensuring we drank enough water. She also watched the clock to keep us on our timetable, with sufficient time to visit each site. She preplanned a Shabu Shabu lunch, which involves cooking thin slices of beef and veggies in a hot pot. Reservations are a must. We hit all the hot spots including Shibuya crossing, Shibuya sky, Shinjuku including the 3D cat billboard, Harajuku, Takeshita street, the statue of Hachiko, the Meiji Jingu shrine and Omotesando street. A few other pointers. Papago is an outstanding app that translates about 20 languages (Japanese too) both in writing and speech. You must bring a garbage bag, toilets are very clean and bring a portable phone charger. Thank you for a great tour, Kahoko!
James R.
Hiroshima & Miyajima One-Day Tour from Osaka
Customized
“Hiroshima and Miyajima Island”
Yuriko guided myself and my son for a one-day trip from Osaka to Hiroshima and then to sacred island of Miyajima. She is a wonderful guide. Knowledgeable, well organized and good company. Would happily recommend her to anyone thinking about a guide.
Yuriko S.
(51 reviews)Thank you for using your precious time in order to post such a good review and comments! I'm so happy to hear that you and your son enjoyed Hiroshima and Miyajima. I also had a wonderful day with both of you. Please come to Japan again, maybe next destination would be Ghibli Park in Aichi Prefecture. If so, please drop in my hometown, Gifu! Gifu has lots of sightseeing spots, such as swordsmith town, Seki City, beautiful and nostalgic castle town, Gujo-hachiman and Takayama, and World Heritage Site, Shirakawago. See you again! Yuriko
“A wonderful forest hike with great company ”
A fantastic walk through an area that without Kanae you couldn’t comfortable navigate yourself without experience or knowledge of the area. Kanae was very supportive during the walk, offering cold drinks and towels due to the very hot September weather. She also went out of her way to begin the tour earlier than planned so we could better avoid the hot mid-day. Kanae also accompanied us to a nice café after the walk for some well-needed refreshments, then took us to her son’s favourite ramen bar which is certainly now my favourite too. The hike itself wasn’t too physically challenging provided you have even some basic hiking activity under your belt. The heat was rough, but Kanae’s preparation was invaluable. The iced lychee salt drinks she brought were delicious. She patiently waited with us whilst we enjoyed the many great views and sights or took quick breathers. Thank you for a great hike Kanae!
Kanae O.
(16 reviews)Tom, thank you so much for your detailed and thoughtful review! I’m so glad to hear you enjoyed the walk despite the severe heat. I’m happy we could start earlier to avoid the midday heat and that you enjoyed the café stop and my son’s favorite ramen place—it's wonderful to hear it’s now a favorite of yours too! You all handled the hike so well, even in the less-than-ideal heat It was truly a memorable day, and I appreciate your kind words. I hope to see you again for another adventure in Kyoto!
Japan Private Tours & Local Tour Guides
Uncover Japan’s secrets and gain travel knowledge with a local private tour guide. Unlock hidden gems, cultural immersion, and an unforgettable journey.
With a tour guide, you can get to the good stuff, like the ethereal Tottori Sand Dunes and quaint Kinosaki Onsen. From enjoying bespoke traditional ryokans, to navigating the busy streets of Osaka, a tailored journey through Japan’s wonders only gets better with a local expert leading the way.
Beyond the big ticket destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, getting a personalized itinerary transforms a simple tour into lifelong memories. Customized by a local guide, your itinerary can feature lesser known sites like the Shikisai-no-Oka flower fields, where stunning panoramic views of colorful flowers await.
Japan Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth getting a tour guide in Japan?
Yes. Local private tour guides in Japan provide comfort, convenience, information, and organization, especially in a culturally and geographically diverse country.
A Japan tour guide enhances your trip by;
- Getting rid of the language barrier. Less than 30% of Japan’s population speaks English. Touring the country with a multilingual guide removes awkward interactions and creates a sense of comfort and ease.
- Saving your time. Once you've picked your destinations, your guide organizes the logistics, focusing on efficiency by booking venues, securing tickets, and making any necessary reservations, leaving you to relax and spend time seeing the Land of the Rising Sun.
- Providing a rich knowledge pool. Walking around the country with a guide ingrained in local culture, history, and knowledge is a treasure that gives you value for your money. You might even encounter a few hidden gems.
Still undecided? This article might interest you: Hiring A Guide In Japan: Pros & Cons.
Yes. Local private tour guides in Japan provide comfort, convenience, information, and organization, especially in a culturally and geographically diverse country.
A Japan tour guide enhances your trip by;
- Getting rid of the language barrier. Less than 30% of Japan’s population speaks English. Touring the country with a multilingual guide removes awkward interactions and creates a sense of comfort and ease.
- Saving your time. Once you've picked your destinations, your guide organizes the logistics, focusing on efficiency by booking venues, securing tickets, and making any necessary reservations, leaving you to relax and spend time seeing the Land of the Rising Sun.
- Providing a rich knowledge pool. Walking around the country with a guide ingrained in local culture, history, and knowledge is a treasure that gives you value for your money. You might even encounter a few hidden gems.
Still undecided? This article might interest you: Hiring A Guide In Japan: Pros & Cons.
What month is best to see Japan?
March to May and September to November are the best times to visit Japan because the weather is warm but not blazing and cool but not freezing.
Of course, March to May is Sakura season, so tourism is high during this time. To escape the crowds, try traveling from December to February. June to August is hot and moist, and May to June is rainy.
Need a full weather breakdown? Check out our Japan Tourism Statistics 2023.
March to May and September to November are the best times to visit Japan because the weather is warm but not blazing and cool but not freezing.
Of course, March to May is Sakura season, so tourism is high during this time. To escape the crowds, try traveling from December to February. June to August is hot and moist, and May to June is rainy.
Need a full weather breakdown? Check out our Japan Tourism Statistics 2023.
How much does a private tour of Japan cost?
Depending on your destination, Japan tour guides can be hired from 98 USD per group for a Kyoto Highlights Tour to upwards of 397 USD per group for a Customized Tokyo Experience. GoWithGuide's prices vary according to perks, venues, experiences, and included services. Head to the Japan Private Tours page to see our range of private tour costs.
Depending on your destination, Japan tour guides can be hired from 98 USD per group for a Kyoto Highlights Tour to upwards of 397 USD per group for a Customized Tokyo Experience. GoWithGuide's prices vary according to perks, venues, experiences, and included services. Head to the Japan Private Tours page to see our range of private tour costs.
Where should I go for the first time in Japan?
Tokyo is the number one choice for first-time travelers to Japan. It combines the best elements from the 4 major islands (Honshu, Hokkaido, Shikoku, and Kyushu) into one melting pot of culture and creativity. With so much variety, you'll find The Meiji Shrine, Shinjuku Gyoen Garden, Ginza Shopping District, and Yomiuriland all in one city.
Tokyo also serves as a base for those who want to travel to nearby destinations like;
- Osaka (2 hrs 22 min via Bullet Train)
- Kyoto (2 hrs 8 min via Bullet Train)
- Fuji Five Lakes ( 2 hrs 5 min via train)
Helpful Article: 5 Relaxing Day Trips From Tokyo You Have To Try
Tokyo is the number one choice for first-time travelers to Japan. It combines the best elements from the 4 major islands (Honshu, Hokkaido, Shikoku, and Kyushu) into one melting pot of culture and creativity. With so much variety, you'll find The Meiji Shrine, Shinjuku Gyoen Garden, Ginza Shopping District, and Yomiuriland all in one city.
Tokyo also serves as a base for those who want to travel to nearby destinations like;
- Osaka (2 hrs 22 min via Bullet Train)
- Kyoto (2 hrs 8 min via Bullet Train)
- Fuji Five Lakes ( 2 hrs 5 min via train)
Helpful Article: 5 Relaxing Day Trips From Tokyo You Have To Try
What I wish I knew before going to Japan?
- English is a bigger barrier than expected, especially if you plan on traveling to rural areas. A guide is a great way to practice small phrases and understand pronunciation.
- A JR (Japan Rail) pass comes in handy, so get one at the airport. Japan's public transport system is one of the best in the world, and a preloaded card will cut so much time while keeping you connected to the vast rail grid.
- The vending machines are as iconic as you think they are. Try as many as you possibly can.
- Walking while eating/drinking is rude. It also promotes littering, so take the time to pause and eat.
- English is a bigger barrier than expected, especially if you plan on traveling to rural areas. A guide is a great way to practice small phrases and understand pronunciation.
- A JR (Japan Rail) pass comes in handy, so get one at the airport. Japan's public transport system is one of the best in the world, and a preloaded card will cut so much time while keeping you connected to the vast rail grid.
- The vending machines are as iconic as you think they are. Try as many as you possibly can.
- Walking while eating/drinking is rude. It also promotes littering, so take the time to pause and eat.
What you should and shouldn't do in Japan?
- You should - Book accommodation months in advance. The earlier, the better, especially if you're headed to Japan during the peak season of March to May or September to November.
- You shouldn’t - Litter. EVER. Japan prides itself on recycling and keeping its streets clean. Littering is one of the worst things you can do. Keep your trash on you until you find a trash can.
- You should - Keep cash on hand. Though there are cashless facilities, cash is still king, especially in smaller specialty shops and restaurants.
- You shouldn’t - Stick to big cities. There's more to Japan than the bustling streets of Shinjuku or the savory foods of Osaka. Remote tours along the Japanese countryside are just as magical, so talk to your tour guide about picking a great spot.
- You should - learn some Japanese phrases like;
- Sumimasen - Excuse me
- Arigatou Gozaimasu - Thank you
- Konnichiwa - Hello
Check out our Ultimate Guide to Japan Tourism Statistics for a full breakdown of dos & don'ts, potential destinations, travel trends, weather statistics, and much more.
- You should - Book accommodation months in advance. The earlier, the better, especially if you're headed to Japan during the peak season of March to May or September to November.
- You shouldn’t - Litter. EVER. Japan prides itself on recycling and keeping its streets clean. Littering is one of the worst things you can do. Keep your trash on you until you find a trash can.
- You should - Keep cash on hand. Though there are cashless facilities, cash is still king, especially in smaller specialty shops and restaurants.
- You shouldn’t - Stick to big cities. There's more to Japan than the bustling streets of Shinjuku or the savory foods of Osaka. Remote tours along the Japanese countryside are just as magical, so talk to your tour guide about picking a great spot.
- You should - learn some Japanese phrases like;
- Sumimasen - Excuse me
- Arigatou Gozaimasu - Thank you
- Konnichiwa - Hello
Check out our Ultimate Guide to Japan Tourism Statistics for a full breakdown of dos & don'ts, potential destinations, travel trends, weather statistics, and much more.
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