Japan Private Tours &amp; Local Tour Guides

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.

Takashi M.

5.00 / 5

(8 reviews)

Hi, my name is Takashi!! When I go abroad, I think that how nice it would be to have a friend there and hang out together. I want you to feel like you have a friend in Osaka and we can go around and explore the city. I was born and grew up in Japan. And I speak English, Spanish and Japanese. I can be the perfect guide for you.

Yoko M.

4.71 / 5

(7 reviews)

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.

Yoji K.

5.00 / 5

(17 reviews)

View All Japan Tour Guides

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.

New Japan Tour Guides

Masayuki I.

My name is Masayuki currently living in Kyoto. Everyone casually calls me Massy. I grew up in a bilingual ( English / Japanese ) background. I am a new entry in here, but I am already very well experienced in hosting and guiding. I was in Canada and U.S. I once took a leading role of an international community as well as being an English teacher. I like to explore things to discover all the hidden beauties and treasures off the beaten path and share with others. I would only show you to the places you really need a guide with no information in English. If you are interested in things truly unique known only to some locals, I am the one. I like to explore in nature and show my footsteps to everyone to discover new hidden ground. It is almost my natural instinct to avoid crowd. I am not into ordinary tourism of Kyoto because I don't want to be another one of them doing the same guide in Kyoto. I want to show you to a true state of sacred and beauty which is unharmed by commercialization and over-tourism. My itinerary cuts off overrated attractions from the view point of a local. In Kyoto I mostly write about places never been introduced in English. I am not a licensed tour guide interpreter, but I have different field of knowledge to introduce things. I am more of an English-hosting guide without strict business manner. I am a professional in writing introduction pages mainly for north parts of Kyoto in English. I would like to take you to some adventurous tour while I am still active enough to do this. The courses are my own creation since I am the original one to write in English. I am a very open and friendly person who can communicate in English nearly as good as a native speaker. My wife is from Ukraine often assisting me to host my guests.

Ali G.

As a foreigner resident of Kanazawa , where I have spent a number of years living, I offer tours of the city's well-known landmarks and historical sites. I have worked in Pakistan and Dubai in similar capacities.In addition, I received my master's degree from Peshawar University.I like difficult travel locations with lots of adventure.interested in history, customs, environment, wildlife, and landscapes. My ultimate travel goal and reward has always been meeting different kind of people internationally.

Norman B.

Good day, everyone! I am Norman. I live in Japan since 2006 and currently residing in Gifu ken. My passions are playing competitive sports and traveling around famous and historical tourist destinations. If you are planning a trip, please do not hesitate to reach out. I’ll be more than happy to assist you especially here in Nagoya, Aichi ken/Gifu ken/Shiga ken and Kyoto. Let’s make your journey unforgettable.

Kazuyoshi M.

View All Japan Tour Guides

I am a guide working mainly in Osaka and Kyoto. I can provide travel guidance to places where foreigners do not usually go. I can also guide you to places popular among foreigners if you want to visit them. I have lived in Osaka for 7 years, so I am a specialist in sightseeing in Osaka. I can also guide sightseeing in Kyoto, as it is my favorite city to visit. I look forward to having an enjoyable trip with you.

Popular Japan Private Tours

Personalized Tokyo Journey

7 hours

This is a customized tour that is designed based on your interests. Before you book me, let me know about you, your age, things you like, your interests etc.. If there is somewhere you want to visit in the city, or something you want to do, please let me know. Let's make your journey memorable one together.

Tokyo tour à la carte

This tour covers my favorite places in Tokyo.You can choose three places from the list of more than 30 places in Tokyo, classified as Temple&Shrine, Garden, Shopping, Observatory, Museum, Experience, and Others.

1 day special customized tour in Kyoto

Kyoto

7 hours

Kyoto has many beautiful places to visit. I especially would like to take you to the most exciting spots in Kyoto in 1 day. Please pick a few of the options from the following sightseeing places and I will take you as many places as possible at a reasonable price.

Efficient One Day Tokyo Tour

View All Japan Private Tours

8 hours

Efficiently visiting various popular sightseeing spots in central Tokyo like Buddhism temple, Shinto shrine, palace, park, market and entertainment district by using public transportation. Schedule of this tour is flexible. Below itinerary is a standard sample. It is possible to change the place to visit by requests of tourists.

New Japan Private Tours

The timeless treasures of Kyoto (from Nagoya)

Nagoya

8 hours

Welcome to Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan! A land where tradition dances with modernity, and every corner whispers tales of a glorious past. From the majestic Arashiyama Bamboo Forest to the gilded splendor of Kinkaku-ji, join me to unravel the secrets of Japan's cultural heartland. The timeless treasures of Kyoto, where every moment is a masterpiece waiting to be discovered. Welcome to a world where the past meets the present in perfect harmony. Welcome to Kyoto.

Kyoto Murasakino ( Daitokuji ) to Kamigamo tour ( peaceful tour with no hassle with crowd )

Kyoto

8 hours

This comfortable way is highly recommended for seniors who are looking for peace and tranquility. This is a guide course of visiting my own home town of Murasakino area. I know the most efficient way to move around. We are starting our tour from Daitokuji Temple to Imamiya shrine where you can enjoy at the oldest tea house in Kyoto. Later on, move on to Kamigamo by a bus which is never crowded from this point. I'll be showing you to a town-scape of historic Kyoto. Let's travel in a peace.

FROM$388/ per group

Masayuki I.

Learn Japanese while touring Shinjuku, Harajuku and Shibuya

Learn and use Japanese while seeing Shinjuku National Gardens, Tokyo Metropolitan Building, Harajuku’s Famous Takeshita Dori, Meji Jingu and Yoyogi Park. This is a great tour for kids as we will visit places where they can use Japanese that our guide will teach them while the adults can enjoy the above mentioned famous Tokyo sights. We will also make a “kid’s pack” with Japanese candies and treats and also a postcard with the Japanese phrases that we will use.

Nakano Otaku WALK: Exploring Hidden Gems and Local Flavors

View All Japan Private Tours

2 hours 30 min

This tour offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in Nakano Broadway's anime culture while discovering the charms of the local area. At Nakano Broadway, you'll browse through anime merchandise and related goods, soaking in the essence of Japanese pop culture. Additionally, you can delight in delicious food and interesting finds at local chic cafes and souvenir shops. Experience the diverse allure of Nakano on this walking tour and uncover new perspectives on Japanese culture!

Popular Japan Private Cars

Mt. Fuji private customize tour with luxury van

Mount Fuji

9 hours

Our drivers have extensive geographic knowledge of Mt. Fuji. Starting from Tokyo, we provide high-end exclusive chartered car reservation services for VIPs visiting Mt. Fuji individually or in groups. According to the time and requirements of VIPs, we provide professional Mt. Fuji customized tour services, allowing tourists to travel easily and comfortably.

FROM$535/ per group

Fuji limousine service J.

4.91 / 5

(130 reviews)

Private Transfer from/to Haneda Airport（1-4pax.）

Fuji limousine service J.

1 hour 30 min

Arrange charter cars to pick up VIPs from or to Haneda airports When picking you up from or to Haneda airport, your exclusive driver will wait for you at the arrival gate or a designated place.

FROM$129/ per group

4.91 / 5

(130 reviews)

Tokyo private customize tour with luxury van(1-5pax.)

Fuji limousine service J.

9 hours

Our drivers have a wealth of geographic knowledge of Tokyo. With Tokyo at the center, provide high-end exclusive charter car reservation service for VIPs travelling as individual tourists or in groups across Tokyo. According to the time and requirements of VIPs, provide professional customized travel services for tourists to travel easily and freely.

FROM$440/ per group

4.91 / 5

(130 reviews)

Private Transfer between Narita Airport and hotel in Tokyo

Narita

1 hour 30 min

This is a private van transfer service between Narita Airport and your hotel in Tokyo. Our van can accommodate a group of up to 12 people and our service is available for 24h. If you are looking for a convenient charter service for your tour group, this is the right choice!

FROM$246/ per group

Van transportation M.

4.48 / 5

(153 reviews)

View All Japan Private Cars

Japan Tour Reviews

Annie S.

5 / 5

Apr 24, 2024

DAY 2 April 16 - 6 hour customized tour

Customized

Apr 24, 2024

“Shinjuku, Cherry Blossoms, and Shopping!”

If you're looking for a customized tour, reach out to Toshi. She was flexible, organized, and very pleasant company. I had a day to myself in Tokyo while my husband was at a conference. I booked a custom tour with Toshi, and am so glad that I did! Our trip was at the tail end of cherry blossom season, so weren't seeing very many blossoms near our hotel. Toshi took me to the Shinjuku Gyoen Garden where there were other varieties in full bloom. It was beautiful! I'm an artist and had scouted out a couple of art supply stores before our trip. Toshi advised which ones would be feasible to visit during our timeframe, and then offered suggestions of other things we could do/see in the area near the shops. We saw some 'hidden gems', including a local Shinto shrine, Godzilla, and Omoide Yokocho. Toshi was constantly sharing information about the area and its history as we explored. She made sure I was comfortable, filled the role of interpreter, and ensured I had a great day. Thank you, Toshi!

Annie S.

5 / 5

Apr 24, 2024

Tokyo tour à la carte

Apr 24, 2024

“Unagi in Asakusa”

Yuki was great! He speaks English well, knew his way around, and coordinated a nice day for us. We booked a tour with him for our first day in Tokyo - we visited the Tokyo Sky Tree, Asakusa, and the Outer Market. My husband was eager to try unagi during our visit and Yuki went out of his way to find a restaurant where it was being served. The tour was a fantastic introduction to Tokyo, as well as its subway system. Thank you, Yuki!

Yuki K.

(350 reviews)

Dear Annie, Thank you for your review. There are shops serving eel in Tsukiji, but they were closed on Sunday. So we tried to find a good place in Asakusa. Although my favorite restaurant was not available when we arrive there after 2PM. We were lucky to find one who serves grilled eel over steamed rice for your husband. Thank you for taking my tour. Yuki

Colleen S.

5 / 5

Apr 24, 2024

Special tour for colleen

5 hours

Customized

Apr 24, 2024

“First Day in Tokyo”

We spent our first day in Tokyo with Michiko. It was so helpful to have a local create an introductory tour of this very large and interesting city. She was very professional and offered helpful tips for our stay.

Japan Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth getting a tour guide in Japan?

What month is best to see Japan?

How much does a private tour of Japan cost?

Where should I go for the first time in Japan?

What I wish I knew before going to Japan?

What you should and shouldn't do in Japan?

Latest Japan Articles

Travel Tips

Hiring A Guide In Kyoto: Pros & Cons

Kyoto, Japan

I know what you’re thinking. At least it’s what I think whenever I try to plan my itinerary during any trip. You want to do it all. If you’re tryi...

Apr 12, 2024

General

Tourism In Kyoto Statistics 2024: Your In Depth Travel Guide

Kyoto, Japan

It’s not just you. Planning a tour of Kyoto has gotten hectic over the past few years. The pandemic, tourism booms, and growing global interest kee...

Apr 11, 2024

Travel Tips

Hiring A Guide In Tokyo: Pros & Cons

Tokyo, Japan

Traveling to Tokyo is a once in a lifetime experience that should be filled with amazing memories, not worrying about the steep language barrier an...

Apr 15, 2024

General

Tourism In Tokyo Statistics 2024: The Ultimate Tour Guide

Tokyo, Japan

If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo, and it feels as hectic as solo navigating Shibuya crossing (the busiest intersection in the world), we feel you...