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.                                                                                                                                 

Toyama Tour Guide - Yuichi W.

Yuichi W.

4.56 / 5
(16 reviews)
Japan

Hello, I'm Yuichi, an English tour guide in Hokuriku region. If you are thinking about traveling to historical places such as Kanazawa, Shirakawa-go and Takayama, I am willing to offer a tour. I can bring you to those popular destinations from my base, Toyama city. These are the examples of my tour: Kanazawa - Shirakawago - Takayama Takaoka - Gokayama - Shirakawago - Takayama Toyama - Tateyama Kurobe Alipne Route - Omachi (Nagano Pref.) During the tour I like to provide simple explanations about Japanese history, and small tips for using the Japanese language on your request. My interests are food, cooking, sake and wine as well as Japanese novels and movies. It would be possible to add those tastes to our tour including a visit to local wineries, movie scenes, etc... Finally, I will do my best to give you a pleasant stay. Looking forward to seeing you in Hokuriku!                                                                                                                                  

New Japan Tour Guides

Tokyo Tour Guide - Simone M.

Simone M.

Japan

Hello! Ciao! My name is Simone, I’m Italian, and I’ve been living in Japan for many years. I know the culture of this wonderful country well, thanks to my Japanese wife, and I love sharing this passion with those who visit Tokyo. I organize personalized tours to help you discover not only the main attractions but also the most authentic places, far from typical tourist paths. We can explore fascinating neighborhoods like Yanaka, with its ancient streets, or visit traditional markets to taste delicious Japanese street food. We can also discover the historic Asakusa with its famous Senso-ji Temple or wander through the vibrant streets of Shibuya, known for its iconic crossing. If you love food, I can take you to hidden restaurants to try sushi, ramen, or kaiseki meals, sharing everything about the ingredients and traditions. Each tour is tailored to offer a unique and unforgettable experience in real Tokyo. Let’s create the best memories of your trip together! ---- Ciao! Mi chiamo Simone, sono italiano e vivo in Giappone da molti anni. Conosco bene la cultura di questo meraviglioso paese, grazie a mia moglie giapponese, e amo condividere questa passione con chi visita Tokyo. Organizzo tour personalizzati per aiutarti a scoprire non solo le principali attrazioni, ma anche i luoghi più autentici, lontani dai percorsi turistici tradizionali. Possiamo esplorare quartieri affascinanti come Yanaka, con le sue stradine antiche, o visitare mercati tradizionali per assaporare delizioso street food giapponese. Possiamo anche scoprire la storica Asakusa con il suo famoso tempio Senso-ji o passeggiare per le vivaci strade di Shibuya, conosciute per il suo incrocio iconico. Se ami la cucina, posso portarti in ristoranti nascosti dove provare sushi, ramen o pasti kaiseki, raccontandoti tutto sugli ingredienti e le tradizioni. Ogni tour è personalizzato per offrirti un'esperienza unica e indimenticabile nella vera Tokyo. Creiamo insieme i migliori ricordi del tuo viaggio!                                                                                                                                 

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!                                                                                                                                 

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$197/ 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$296/ 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)
Tailored Tours to Takayama / Shirakawago / Gokayamacover image

Tailored Tours to Takayama / Shirakawago / Gokayama

Kanazawa
8 hours

This guided tour will bring guests to one/some of traditional destinations in Hokuriku and Hida region which cover the traditional streets, old government office building in Takayama and UNESCO's gassho-zukuri (A-shaped) houses in Shirakawago/Gokayama. The whole tour can be flexibly arranged based on guests' preferences and requests on either one way and round trip between Kanazawa and Takayama.

FROM$263/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Yuichi W.
Yuichi W.
4.56 / 5
(16 reviews)

New Japan Private Tours

Shimokitazawa and Gotokuji: From tradition to vintagecover image

Shimokitazawa and Gotokuji: From tradition to vintage

Tokyo
4 hours

Discover the perfect blend of tradition and modern style on this Shimokitazawa and Gotokuji tour. Visit Gotokuji Temple, the birthplace of the maneki-neko (lucky cat), and learn about its rich history. Then, explore Shimokitazawa’s vibrant vintage scene, from second-hand clothing stores to trendy boutiques. Music lovers can enjoy browsing records. Finish with a visit to Hachiman Shrine or the creative Bonus Track, where Japanese traditions meet European influences for a unique experience.

FROM$43/ per person
Japan Tour Guide - Simone M.
Simone M.
Shimokitazawa Hidden Gems: Vintage Shopping and Local Vibescover image

Shimokitazawa Hidden Gems: Vintage Shopping and Local Vibes

Tokyo
3 hours

Discover the trendy neighborhood of Shimokitazawa with this unique tour! Explore its famous second-hand shops, from affordable vintage clothing to high-quality Japanese brands. Dive into the local music scene at iconic record stores, or take a peaceful break at Hachiman Shrine. End the day with a visit to the cozy Bonus Track or a hidden café for homemade treats. Perfect for fashion lovers, music enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience Tokyo’s creative side!

FROM$31/ per person
Japan Tour Guide - Simone M.
Simone M.
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$131/ 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$164/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Yoichi I.
Yoichi I.

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$131/ 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$780/ 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$289/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Seigo U.
Seigo U.
5.00 / 5
(11 reviews)
Private Car Tour - Enjoy the authentic castle towns and famous Oumi beef just outside Kyotocover image

Private Car Tour - Enjoy the authentic castle towns and famous Oumi beef just outside Kyoto

Shiga
7 hours 30 min

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.

FROM$394/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Nori I.
Nori I.
5.00 / 5
(38 reviews)

Japan Tour Reviews

D

Deepa V.

5 / 5
Dec 12, 2024

Osaka 1-day Grand Tour

Osaka
7 hours

Pleasant and energetic guide!

We had a great time touring Osaka with Seiko! She was accommodating and flexible and incorporated places the kids wanted to visit like a cat cafe. It was interesting to learn about the history and significance of the city. She even introduced us to special foods which was a treat! We spent a long day with her but she was always upbeat and cheerful and gave us a memorable day in Osaka. Thank you Seiko!

R

Rachel S.

5 / 5
Dec 12, 2024

1 day special customized tour in Kyoto

Kyoto
7 hours

Day tour in Kyoto

We had a fantastic day with Toshiyo in Kyoto. Toshiyo showed us many historic sites and was very knowledgeable and friendly. She was also very patient with our big group of 9 people on public transport. We had a wonderful day!

Rachel S.

Thank you very much for having me as your guide and writing me the excellent review. I hope you will visit again to see cherry blossoms in spring. Please say hello to your beautiful family members and friends. Thank you. Toshiyo

R

Richard M.

5 / 5
Dec 12, 2024

Less crowded, stunning fall foliage - Kyoto

Kyoto
8 hours

Shuji-san's way is the right way!

First off I wanted to thank Shuji-san for a wonderful experience in Kyoto with my family and friends. We live in Tokyo and decided to take a 1.5 day trip down to Kyoto with out of town guests from the US. Shuji-san was extremely accommodating and was able to help adjust his suggested itinerary with a customized agenda to help ensure that we could see some of the primary sites that were more crowded in addition to the lesser known shrines and areas that across Kyoto. We traveled also with our 2 x boys aged 13 & 10 years old and Shuji-san was also connecting with them to make sure that they were also having a great experience as well. We trusted Shuji-san to help us deliver an experience for our friends and he was able to surpass our expectations. His knowledge and experience was super helpful and our Kyoto visit would not have been the same if it wasn't for him. Even though we have been to Kyoto several times ourselves, this added experience and help navigating the locations was a great way to compliment our exploration. Highlights included an appreciation of the beauty of temples, the fall foliage as noted by the agenda, spontaneous photos and a less traveled aqueduct bridge through one of the temples. Thank you Shuji-san. It was a pleasure meeting you and we hope to cross paths again. ありがとうございました。お時間を割いていただき、会話も楽しめ、素晴らしい経験ができました。どうぞ良いお年をお迎えください。

Richard M.

Hi Richard, Thank you for a very thorough review. I'm happy I got it. I called this tour 'Less Crowded, Stunning Fall Foliage - Kyoto'. But since you were with your friends who were visiting Kyoto for the first time, I changed it on the spot. But the most exciting thing was that you and your kids chose 'Adventure' from my last suggestions. It was already a little dark, but we enjoyed the last place. You made our tour very great. Yes, I enjoyed it a lot too. Even though you live in Japan, guides can make your trip to Japan different. See you again in the near future again. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

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

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