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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Kyoto Private Tours & Local Tour Guides

Discover Things to Do and Plan a Trip to Kyoto, Japan with a Local Guide

Popular Kyoto Tour Guides

Nara Tour Guide - Yasuhisa K.

Yasuhisa K.

4.97 / 5
(34 reviews)
Japan

I have worked in the multi-national organizations including UN agency for around 30 years and stationed at various cities including Rome, Bangkok and Hanoi. Although I have retired from those international carriers, I wish to keep the international cooperation and develop the friendship with people who visits our country. As I like history and am practicing Noh song and wood curving of Buddha images, I have decided to live in Nara where is surrounded by many historical places and traditional cultures, when I returned back to Japan in 2017. I wish to offer you custom made trip ideas to be able to enjoy the atmosphere of old city, Nara. I am also planning to develop trip plans to enjoy the local cultures. Please call me Yasu.                                                                                                                                 

Wakayama Tour Guide - Hiroyuki T.

Hiroyuki T.

4.97 / 5
(156 reviews)
Japan

Hi! I had been working for Wakayama Prefectural Government for 38 years, mainly in the field of cultural heritage management and international relations. I am a national certificated English guide and I have a lot of knowledge and experience in the field of cultural heritage management and international relations. I am very good at cultural heritages. And Koyasan and Kumano in Wakayama Prefecture are inscribed in the World Heritage List as parts of “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range". I was a project manager of "the Koyasan and Kumano World Heritage Inscription Project” at Wakayama Prefectural Government. I know inside and out of Koyasan, Kumano, Wakayama and other places in the Kansai area. I have a lot of experience of guiding as I was also in charge of international relations for a long time at the government. I will be able to provide interpretive guiding service for you around Koyasan, Wakayama, Osaka and other places in the Kansai area as I am a cultural heritage management and international relations professional. I am sure you will be able to get deeper understandings on Japanese culture and that your trip with me will be memorable one.                                                                                                                                  

Shiga Tour Guide - Koichi W.

Koichi W.

4.95 / 5
(66 reviews)
Japan

Hi! I'm Koichi. I was born in Osaka, I studied in Kyoto when I was a university student. Now I live in Shiga next to Kyoto. I am a national government licensed tour guide. I have been guiding about 160 groups over the past twelve months. I usually guide my customers mainly in Kansai region including Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Kobe and Shiga by public transportation systems. Well, I am curious about Japanese history, especially the history of Japan's ancient times since I was raised next to the world biggest mausoleum of the ancient Emperor called "Nintoku" in Sakai city Osaka which has just become one of the world cultural heritage sites. I dug out some ancient earthen ware vessels around there when I was a primary school student like the adventure archaeologist “Indiana Jones" (It’s our secret!!). That was my hobby. Now, one of my hobbies is outdoor activities such as mountaineering, kayaking, skiing and others. So I would like to take you to some good places where you can enjoy Japanese unique nature. I love to guide foreign visitors from all over the world. I think it is my calling or heavenly given job. Let's go and enjoy together! I hope to see you soon.                                                                                                                                 

Shiga Tour Guide - Nori I.

Nori I.

5.00 / 5
(41 reviews)
Japan

I have lived in the US, UK, and India for approximately 20 years, and I’ve also traveled to about 30 countries. Living abroad for such a long time made me realize Japan’s value and sparked my interest in working as a translator/guide for foreigners. I’m truly passionate about introducing people to historical sites, authentic Japanese culture, and stunning natural spots that may not be widely known to people outside of Japan. There are countless places that I believe people would love. Originally from Nagoya, I cover areas around the city and the Kansai region including Kyoto, Shiga and Mie. I’m here to ensure your trip to Japan becomes an unforgettable memory. Looking forward to meeting you!                                                                                                                                 

New Kyoto Tour Guides

Kyoto Tour Guide - Takato Y.

Takato Y.

5.00 / 5
(1 reviews)
Japan

Welcome to a unique journey through Kyoto and Osaka. As a passionate, certified guide, I’m committed to revealing the region’s most authentic experiences—from hidden shrines and tranquil gardens to lively shopping streets and mouthwatering local delicacies. My personalized tours offer a seamless blend of cultural insights and modern comforts, tailored to your interests and pace. Whether you wish to savor a traditional tea ceremony or immerse yourself in the bright lights of Dotonbori, every moment is carefully designed to be unforgettable. Safety, comfort, and in-depth exploration are my top priorities, ensuring you enjoy the best of Japan without worry.                                                                                                                                 

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!                                                                                                                                  

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 Kyoto Private Tours

One day tour in Kyoto (Arashiyama area)cover image

One day tour in Kyoto (Arashiyama area)

Kyoto
7 hours

Tour will start from the Hotel in Kyoto. Frst visit is Kinkakuji temple (Golden Pavillion ),then, to Ryoanji tmple where is famous for rock garden. Tour will stop at Arasiyama area to take lunch and visit Togetsu bridge, Bamboo grove, Tentyuji temple and others. The last visit is NIjyo castle. As these places are normally crowded. using chartered taxi is highly recommended in order to effectively use your valuable time in Kyoto.

FROM$256/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Yasuhisa K.
Yasuhisa K.
4.97 / 5
(34 reviews)
Zen temples with beautiful gardens, Fushimi Inari and Bamboo Forestcover image

Zen temples with beautiful gardens, Fushimi Inari and Bamboo Forest

Kyoto
8 hours

There are a lot of Buddhism temples and Shinto Shrines in Kyoto. This tour focuses on three UNESCO World Heritage temples with beautiful gardens, Fushimi Inari Shrine which is famous for a lot of red Torii gates and Bamboo Forest in Arashiyma to feel the profundity of Kyoto. If you are interested in the places which are not listed here, like Nijo Castle, Kyoto Imperial Palace, Gion, Nishiki Market, Sanjusangen-do, Kiyomizu-dera and others, just let me know, I will customize a tour for you.

FROM$289/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Hiroyuki T.
Hiroyuki T.
4.97 / 5
(156 reviews)
Early Bird Tour in Western part of Kyotocover image

Early Bird Tour in Western part of Kyoto

Kyoto
5 hours

Shall we explore some of the most popular sightseeing destinations in Kyoto while most tourists are preparing for their tour? I would also like to take you some hidden gemes in Kyoto. Beat the crowds!

FROM$193/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Koichi W.
Koichi W.
4.95 / 5
(66 reviews)
Fully customizable your own private tour in Kyotocover image

Fully customizable your own private tour in Kyoto

Kyoto
8 hours

There are so many great places in Kyoto that you probably want to visit but perhaps not enough time. Also, Kyoto is getting very crowded due to a lot of foreigners visiting there. It is best to have a local person guiding you to come up with a plan that suits your preference. I can create a tour with you which includes not only popular places like the Golden Pavilion and Fushimi Inari but small temples with Wabi Sabi such as those in Sagano and the oldest Japanese sweet shop in Murasakino.

FROM$334/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Nori I.
Nori I.
5.00 / 5
(41 reviews)

New Kyoto Private Tours

Meet Buddhas and Deities in Kyoto, Kiyomizudera, Sanjusangendo, Byodoin and morecover image

Meet Buddhas and Deities in Kyoto, Kiyomizudera, Sanjusangendo, Byodoin and more

Kyoto
7 hours

There are a lot of cultural properties like temples and shrines in Kyoto. In this tour, we will visit some temples and shrines in Higashiyama to meet Buddhas and Deities. We will visit Kiyomizu Temple, Sanjusangendo Temple, Yasaka Shrine and Byodoin Temple or Fushimi Inari Shrine. I will be able to finish the tour at Gion so that you can explore Gion and Nishiki Market.

FROM$308/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Hiroyuki T.
Hiroyuki T.
4.97 / 5
(156 reviews)
Jewish History Tour in Japancover image

Jewish History Tour in Japan

Kyoto
8 hours

This tour is a Day-Trip from Kyoto to explores the story of Japan's Jewish community, placing into context the interactions between cultures. During the tour, you will be joined by two guides, a professor of International Law at a nearby public university and a PhD candidate in the humanities. During the tour, we will particularly focus on the community rescued by Imperial Japanese ambassador Chiune Sugihara, awarded Righteous Among the Nations for his actions during the Second World War.

FROM$835/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Eco H.
Eco H.
5.00 / 5
(3 reviews)
The Best Day Tour of East Kyoto!!!cover image

The Best Day Tour of East Kyoto!!!

Kyoto
7 hours 30 min

Explore the ancient Beauty of East Kyoto on this captivating tour! We begin with the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, perched on a hill with breathtaking city views. We will Stroll through the charming streets of Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka and Gion where traditional wooden shops and Geisha traditions enchant visitors Later we continue to Fushimi Inari, famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates winding through the forested mountainside. This tour perfectly blends Religion, Spirituality, Nature!

FROM$469/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Yakir S.
Yakir S.
Arashiyama Awaits: A Serene Blend of Scenic Views and Cultural Gemscover image

Arashiyama Awaits: A Serene Blend of Scenic Views and Cultural Gems

Kyoto
3 hours

This tour will take you through the serene and picturesque Arashiyama area, known for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. You will experience some of Kyoto's most iconic sights, including the Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple, and discover the rich cultural heritage of the area.

FROM$135/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Mary T.
Mary T.
5.00 / 5
(1 reviews)

Popular Kyoto Private Cars

Kyoto Early Bird Highlights with Car Servicecover image

Kyoto Early Bird Highlights with Car Service

Kyoto
5 hours

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.

FROM$231/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Kanae O.
Kanae O.
5.00 / 5
(29 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$449/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Ryuichiro M.
Ryuichiro M.
5.00 / 5
(3 reviews)
Enjoy Kyoto in a convertible car (daytime)cover image

Enjoy Kyoto in a convertible car (daytime)

Kyoto
8 hours

Kyoto has a very large number of tourists. It's always hard to catch a taxi. Buses and trains are so crowded. Traveling with convertible car will be a comfortable and valuable experience! The itinerary is just an example, and destinations can be changed according to your needs. More than you think, English is not spoken in Japan. To enjoy a trouble-free trip, please contact me!

FROM$449/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - Yoshiroh N.
Yoshiroh N.
5.00 / 5
(3 reviews)
Kyoto 8-Hour Tour with a Private Carcover image

Kyoto 8-Hour Tour with a Private Car

Kyoto
8 hours

Experienced local taxi drivers will cordially show you around the area so that you can visit both must-see and hidden sightseeing spots and enjoy local food.

FROM$352/ per group
Japan Tour Guide - TR Taxi
TR Taxi
4.87 / 5
(261 reviews)

Day Trips from Kyoto

Kyoto Tour Reviews

N

Nori C.

5 / 5
Jan 16, 2025

Kyoto 4-Hour Tour with a Private Car

Kyoto
4 hours

Good service

We highly recommend our driver, shiro, tho he can't speak English, he tried his best to understand us and the translator was of good help. He drove well, and he stays with us all the time in the sites we visit and doing head counts.

Deceitful And Inconsiderate

Be careful when booking with Ahmed. I recently booked a tour with him for the following day. A prior/separate GoWithGuide tour to Mt Fuji from Tokyo included transportation for a similar price and I accidentally overlooked that the transportation was not included in this cost. In less than 4 hours, I realized my mistake and asked to cancel. We were communicating via WhatsApp and he seemed understanding and recommended that I reach out to GoWithGuide for the refund, which I did immediately. See photo for our conversation. Come to find out, he tells GoWithGuide that he refuses to sign off on the refund. Also, there was never any proof provided regarding “turning down another tour” and I generally doubt he received another request as this all took place so quickly. I would recommend staying away from booking any tours from Ahmed unless you are comfortable knowing that you will never get your money back if something happens at the last minute.

Perfect way to explore Kyoto!

Takato was an excellent guide who thoughtfully crafted an itinerary to help us explore the highlights of Kyoto ahead of the winter holiday crowds. It was such a pleasure to learn the history and cultural significance of the sites, rather than simply walking through shrines and temples without context. He also took some beautiful photos of us that we’ll treasure forever. We would absolutely book with his team again!

Nick M.

Takato Y.

Thank you so much! I’m really glad you enjoyed the tour and the photos. I’d love to guide you again sometime—looking forward to it!

Kyoto Private Tour Guide

Discover Kyoto's hidden gems with a private tour guide! Navigate the city's rich history, culture, and food like a local with a tour guide that knows the way.

Push beyond tour favorites like Kinkaku-ji and Fushimi Inari Taisha, and the crowds they attract, towards hidden gems waiting to be discovered with the help of a private tour guide. One such place is the Tofuku-ji Temple, known for its stunning autumn foliage and serene atmosphere. A private tour guide can provide insights into the temple's architecture, Zen gardens, and historical significance, allowing visitors to appreciate its beauty beyond the surface level.

With calmer crowds, you and your loved ones can create the kind of memories you want, with no interruptions. In Kyoto, your private guide will ensure you have the time, knowledge and space to savor moments of tranquility and reflection and soak in the spiritual ambiance of this lesser-known gem.

All Tours Customizable

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