GoWithGuideFind your perfect tour guide at GoWithGuide. Relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. Create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip!
GoWithGuide
GoWithGuideFind your perfect tour guide at GoWithGuide. Relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. Create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip!
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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 Guides

Kagawa Tour Guide - Mika S.

Mika S.

5.00 / 5
(2 reviews)
Japan

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.                                                                                                                                  

Nagasaki Tour Guide - Armando V.

Armando V.

5.00 / 5
(3 reviews)
Japan

Hi there! I’m Armand. Living in Nagasaki since 2016. I am living the best and most relaxing life on my permaculture homestead in the hills of Nagasaki, where you get the best views in Japan. I love my town. As a dancer and actor I love telling stories too. And there a so many great stories to share about all the interesting people that once dwelled in this adventurous town full of historical intrigues. Want to experience the rich Nagasaki culture? Eat the freshest fish of Japan? Make the most beautiful photos of hidden treasures and landscapes? Come and explore the town together with me. I’ve made it my mission to get to know everything there is to know about this place.                                                                                                                                  

Gifu Tour Guide - Akiko W.

Akiko W.

5.00 / 5
(8 reviews)
Japan

Hello! My name is Akiko from Gifu prefecture. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter. I like going out with my family, talking with my friends over coffee at a cozy cafe, reading books, baking bread and cake when I have time. I passed the national tour guide test in 2017 and have worked as a guide since then. I have guided in Gifu city, Seki city, Takayama city, Shirakawago , Mino city and Nagoya city. I have lived in Gifu for more than forty years. Gifu prefecture is rich in nature so you can enjoy the rural atmosphere. Gifu city has a beautiful river 'Nagara river' and Mt.Kinka which has Gifu castle on the top. You can go up the mountain on foot or use a ropeway. The view from Gifu castle is so fantastic. At the foot of the mountain , there are many places to visit such as parks, a temple having a big image of Buddha, and a street preserving the historic atmosphere. At Nagara River, you can enjoy seeing a traditional way of fishing ‘cormorant fishing’ which is thought to have started 1300 years ago. Many cafes have unique service called 'morning service' in Gifu along with Aichi In the morning (until about ten thirty or eleven) when you order a cup of tea or coffee, they serve toast and salad ! Near Gifu park , you can find a nice Japanese style cafe where you enjoy good coffee and seeing a Japanese style garden. Seki city is a small city but so famous for its cutlery. At Japanese sword museum in Seki, you can see authentic Japanese swords! Mino city next to Seki city is well known for its hand made Japanese paper 'Hon minoshi' designated as intangible cultural asset by UNESCO . Until recently it was not easy to guide guests because of COVID-19 pandemic; however the situation is getting better. Some strict rules about COVID-19 have been lifted. Please visit Gifu. I am looking forward to seeing you. Please feel free to ask me when you need information about Gifu. Thank you for reading my introduction.                                                                                                                                 

Fukuoka Tour Guide - Tadashi M.

Tadashi M.

4.82 / 5
(11 reviews)
Japan

Hello! My name is Tadashi. I was born and raised in Fukuoka and I've lived here all my life. I used to work for a local bank where I was mainly involved in export, import, and foreign exchange, etc. Afterwards I joined a university where I taught international economics and foreign trade for five years. I'm happy to arrange your tour plans according to your requests and help you to write your own unique story with me. If you're coming to Fukuoka for the first time, I recommend Tochoji Temple, Kushida Shrine and Fukuoka Castle Ruins where you can get feel for Japanese culture and history. Thirty minutes away from the center by train is Dazaifu. There you can enjoy a very famous shrine, Dazaifu Tenmangu, known as the home of " the god of literature or calligraphy." and Kyushu National Museum. Fukuoka is also a mecca for shopping and food. If you're coming to Fukuoka again, I recommend that you try local food, for example, Hakata Ramen-noodles in pork broth and locally caught fish. I can also take you to a traditional Japanese shopping arcade, Kawabata Shotengai. If you would like to get out of the city, we could go to Yanagawa, a town of canals, which is a one hour ride from the city center. You can try boat tours enjoying the leisurely view of the historic buildings and try Steamed Eel. Fukuoka travel tip: if you arrive in Fukuoka by JR, make sure to get off at "Hakata Station." Sorry, there's no "Fukuoka Station." on JR lines. Hakata is an old name for Fukuoka and your destination. I look forward to hearing from you soon.                                                                                                                                  

New Japan Tour Guides

Hyogo Tour Guide - Menshawi F.

Menshawi F.

Japan

Konnichiwa! I'm a passionate licensed tour guide and for me, being a tour guide isn't just a job. Its a way to share my love for Kyoto city and create meaningful connection with people from around the world. I enjoy helping travelers feel at home, discover new perspectives and leave with cherished memories. I look forward to welcoming you on a journey of discovery, whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to explore even deeper. Let's make your trip truly special together. If you're looking for an adventure off the beaten path or a deep dive into local tradition, my goal is to make every moment memorable.Let me guide you on a journey you'll cherish forever                                                                                                                                  

Kyoto Tour Guide - Jodie C.

Jodie C.

Japan

Hello everyone. My name is Jodie. It's very nice to meet you. I’m originally from St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada (near Niagara Falls), but I live and work in Kyoto, Japan. I’ve been in Japan (Kyoto) for about 23 years, and I teach English as a Second/Foreign Language (ESL/EFL) full-time at a couple of universities in Kyoto. I offer 2 types of tours: bicycle tours and scooter/motorbike – 125cc tours (solo guest only), and I love doing them because I love riding my bicycle and driving my scooter around this amazing city (Japan’s capital from 794-1868; sometimes called The 1000-Year Capital). I love exploring and discovering more about this amazing city, and I'd love to do this together with you. I'll take you down narrow alleys, riverside paths, show you some popular sights (and some hidden gems), and we'll learn and discover about Kyoto together as I am still learning about Kyoto (e.g., its shrines, temples, and history) myself. I will do my best to be of use to all of you. I know that getting long lists of names and dates from Japanese history can be hard to keep up with, and possibly boring, so I’m not a translator, but a guide who will discover Kyoto with you. I’ll introduce you to some modern culture in Kyoto (and Japan), and to daily life as well. I’m here to make your trip to Kyoto an unforgettable memory, and I look forward to meeting you and showing you around this AMAZING city. And remember: What’s the best way to see Kyoto? On 2 wheels!                                                                                                                                  

Hyogo Tour Guide - Shuhei I.

Shuhei I.

5.00 / 5
(1 reviews)
Japan

Hi, I’m Shu! I’ve traveled to over 80 countries, immersing myself in diverse cultures, and now it’s my turn to share the hidden treasures of Japan with you. Whether you're a first-time visitor or looking for unique, local experiences, I can customize a tour to fit your needs. I speak English, Spanish, and Japanese, and with my car, I can take you to hidden gems most tourists miss. As a sports and outdoor enthusiast, I can guide you on anything from scenic hikes to laid-back adventures. Let’s create unforgettable memories together!                                                                                                                                 

Osaka Tour Guide - Yosshi S.

Yosshi S.

Japan

Thank you for visiting my page. I will guide you to the ancient capital cities with 1000 years of urban development and 100 years of filming and screening history. I grew up in Osaka, studied in Kyoto, and worked for 20 years as an urban planning expert for the national and local governments. During this time, I surveyed many community development sites throughout Japan. I welcomed business leaders to encourage investment in the cities. After quitting my career, I became a film-loving professional engineer. I visited unique cities in foreign countries to see urban planning and locations that appeared in picturesque film scenes and posted photos on social media (90 cities in 30 countries up to now). The more I saw foreign cities, the more I loved my hometown. I wanted to know about the travel industry and got a national license as a Guide-Interpreter and Travel Service Manager. I have started guiding based in the old capital cities. The entire area of old Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara has been a Metropolitan area centered on the Imperial Palace, and the actual location of the Palace has changed 15 times since the 7th century. This area has many historical spots and hidden attractions in different times and places: the townscape, temples, shrines, landscaped gardens, and historical drama locations (SAMURAI drama). I will create your favorite tour using my list, and guide you leisurely. I look forward to hearing from you.                                                                                                                                  

Popular Japan Private Tours

Takamatsu Full-day Customized Tourcover image

Takamatsu Full-day Customized Tour

Kagawa
6 hours

Discover the charm of Takamatsu city, where you can explore historic castle ruins, stroll through the stunning Ritsurin Garden, and enjoy the lively shopping arcade that once thrived as a castle town. For added adventure, Plan B includes a visit to the captivating Shikokumura Museum and the tranquil Yashima Temple. For those craving even more, an optional trip to the scenic Oboke Gorge promises breathtaking views.

FROM$198/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Mika S.
Mika S.
5.00 / 5
(2 reviews)
Full Day Tour Exploring Nagasakicover image

Full Day Tour Exploring Nagasaki

Nagasaki
7 hours

A highly personalized day tour (6-8h) in which you get to explore the many intriguing ins and outs of Nagasaki's rich culture and history. Visit several of the unique city highlights and many beautiful hidden gems at your own pace. I'll make sure you get to experience the things you like most and the best that Nagasaki has to offer you.

FROM$297/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Armando V.
Armando V.
5.00 / 5
(3 reviews)
Walking tour in Seki citycover image

Walking tour in Seki city

Gifu
3 hours

About one hour bus ride from Gifu station or Nagoya bus terminal brings you to Seki city area. Seki city is small but very famous for its cutlery. In this tour we visit some museums related to cutlery , a temple, a shrine and Seki terrace where you can shop high quality cutlery.

FROM$79/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Akiko W.
Akiko W.
5.00 / 5
(8 reviews)
One-Day memorable tour in Fukuoka and Dazaifucover image

One-Day memorable tour in Fukuoka and Dazaifu

Fukuoka
7 hours

Fukuoka and dazaifu have prospered as " Japan's Door to Asia" from antiquity and influenced by different cultures. This makes it very popular with international visitors. Subsequently, Fukuoka has been ranked the 14th "Most livable city in the world" by the British Monocle magazine. You can get a rough idea about Fukuoka and Dazaifu by joining this tour.

FROM$188/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Tadashi M.
Tadashi M.
4.82 / 5
(11 reviews)

New Japan Private Tours

Off the Beaten Path: Half-Day Private Tea Ceremony Experience in Sokacover image

Off the Beaten Path: Half-Day Private Tea Ceremony Experience in Soka

Tokyo
4 hours

Escape Tokyo and explore Soka, a historic town featured in Oku no Hosomichi. Experience a private tea ceremony with a Japanese tea master and learn the art of origami folding. Take a mini-tour of the paths immortalized in Basho’s poetry, and optionally, try your hand at Japanese rice cracker making. A serene half-day journey into tradition and culture awaits! [Note: Please do not directly book this tour because I would like to check tea master's availability. Just contact me first. Thank you.]

FROM$132/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Grant A.
Grant A.
5.00 / 5
(40 reviews)
4 Hours Shibuya and Harajuku Walking tourcover image

4 Hours Shibuya and Harajuku Walking tour

Tokyo
4 hours

Southwest Tokyo is a region of youth and trends. In addition to this, there is also a vast forest with Meiji Shrine. Join me as we walk and explore the coexistence of the historic Meiji Jingu Shrine and the cutting-edge youth district of Harajuku. We will also visit the famous Shibuya scramble crossing and the Hachiko statue. There are also many local restaurants if it is time to get hungry. The following itinerary is an example.  -The meeting time  -Duration of stay can be changed flexibly.

FROM$165/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Yoichi I.
Yoichi I.
Private Half Day Guided Tour in Hakodatecover image

Private Half Day Guided Tour in Hakodate

Hakodate
4 hours 30 min

Hakodate city is a gateway to Hokkaido. You can enjoy sight-seeing with government licensed guide through the city with public transportations. 1. Hakodate morning market 2. Kanamori redbrick warehouse 3. Mt.Hakodate ropeway

FROM$304/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Tomio Y.
Tomio Y.
5.00 / 5
(2 reviews)
Edo period tour and Fire ritualcover image

Edo period tour and Fire ritual

Tokyo
6 hours

Tokugawa Ieyasu became Shogun in 1603. The Edo period started in 1603 and ended in 1867. It is also the end of the feudal era and the restauration of the Emperor Meiji, a period that brought modernization to Japan. Edo period was a time of peace and of rapid economic growth and a a flourishing time for arts like Woodblock prints, Kabuki theater, Japanese gardens, tea ceremony, poetry and flower viewing.

FROM$165/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Virginie B.
Virginie B.
5.00 / 5
(9 reviews)

Popular Japan Private Cars

Visit to NANZOIN Templecover image

Visit to NANZOIN Temple

Fukuoka
3 hours

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.

FROM$132/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Masatoshi M.
Masatoshi M.
5.00 / 5
(19 reviews)
Nagasaki, Cruise passenger recommendations, 7hour, history, lunch.cover image

Nagasaki, Cruise passenger recommendations, 7hour, history, lunch.

Nagasaki
7 hours

This is a customized plan for cruise ship passengers. You can enjoy Nagasaki within the ship's schedule. Enjoy a world-class experience while listening to your favorite music in a private car. Explore Nagasaki's world-famous sites and savor its world-class food culture. Traveling by car allows you to have private time without being bothered by crowded traffic and other people.

FROM$785/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Katsu N.
Katsu N.
5.00 / 5
(4 reviews)
Hakone Explorer 1-Day Nature and History Car Tour with a Licensed guidecover image

Hakone Explorer 1-Day Nature and History Car Tour with a Licensed guide

Hakone
8 hours

Why don't you travel efficiently by car? Enjoy nature, culture, and food in Hakone! Your guide will drive you wherever you like in the Hakone area in English, Chinese, and a little Spanish. *The tour starts and ends in the Hakone area. *If starts and ends in Tokyo: +$140, 10 hours My SUZUKI K-cars 1 Wagon R Stingray TS, 2008 2 Alto Turbo RS, 2017 ・small but powerful with 660cc engine with turbo ・accommodates 3 guests maximum ・not so spacious nor as comfortable as Mercedes ・with insurance

FROM$291/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Seigo U.
Seigo U.
5.00 / 5
(11 reviews)
"Discover Kyoto's Hidden Treasures Ⅰ: Let’s explore the traditional culture untouched by tourism"cover image

"Discover Kyoto's Hidden Treasures Ⅰ: Let’s explore the traditional culture untouched by tourism"

Kyoto
8 hours

In this tour, I'll take you on a journey to experience the ancient culture deeply rooted in Kyoto, which only locals can truly appreciate, in my car. Kyoto is a basin surrounded by mountains over 900 meters high in three directions. For most of its 1200-year history, it has thrived on this flat basin. However, once you step into the mountains surrounding the area, you'll discover a world that can only be experienced with my tour.

FROM$462/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Ryuichiro M.
Ryuichiro M.
5.00 / 5
(1 reviews)

Japan Tour Reviews

Perfect 1 day trip to Kyoto

I'm not very good at writing but the experience and places I was able to visit in one day and the logistics it takes to make it to everything is no small feat! Grant did an excellent job super professional and knowledgeable would recommend!

J

Justin K.

5 / 5
Dec 10, 2024

Matsushima private Tour

Miyagi
7 hours

Matsushima Private Tour

Mai is a great tour guide who is friendly, knowledgeable and accommodating. She considered our preferences and customised the tour to our liking. She takes great interest in explaining different aspects of the tour and kept us engaged through her various tours. We had a great time with her and recommend her! (:

Customised tour of Sado Island

Fujiko is an excellent tour guide and we enjoyed ourselves very much as we got to take a deeper look at different parts of Sado island. She has a great command of English, explains the context of Sado's history, development and other interesting tidbits of information very well. She was also accommodating to fit in many places of interest in our day tour of the island. She is friendly and will take on any question you ask her with pleasure. We highly recommend her. (:

Justin K.

Hi Justin, Good day to you! Thank you very much for writing such a wonderful review of the tour. It was a cold autumn day but the weather was beautiful and I guess you could visit the places you had in mind in this 6&1/2 hour tour. Sado Island is much different from Singapore even tough the area is about the same. I hope you could refresh yourselves in a tiny still unknown island!! Please stay healthy and happy:) Hope to guide you in the near future. Fujiko

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.

All Tours Customizable

Start By Messaging Your Guide

100% Private Tours

Just You and Your Local Tour Guide

Quality Assured Guides

Screened and Verified via Interviews