Japan Private Tour Guides
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Popular Japan Destinations
Popular Tokyo Tour Guides
Japan
Toru I.
4.71 / 5
(7 reviews)
4.71 / 5
(7 reviews)
Hello to all of you on the screen. My name is Toru Ishii and I am a licensed national interpretater of English language. I have been guiding scrolling around a Japanese landscape garden designated as Scenic Beauty in Yokohama city for the last 2 years. I would like to explain about time-honored Japanese architectures, transfered from Kyoto and Kamakura, designated as Important Cultural Property. I am also interested in Tea Ceremony and in the ritual of serving powdered green tea in the garden. Yokohama opened its door to overseas comers in 1859 after the Meiji Restoration. The port of Yokohama shared about 70 percents of overseas trading in Japan. The main export was raw silk thread. Now the beautiful city of Yokohama has become historically exotic and ranks as one of the most fascinating internationally trading city that attracts many foreign tourists. I am always happy to guide tourists around this historical region and Introduce the delights of Japanese cuisine and Chinese cuisine in China town according to the visitor's requests. Stepping further out from Yokohama, I would recommend Kamakura city, a 20 minutes train ride on the JR Line, where the visitor can feel the fresh ocean breeze. The nearby Zen Buddhist temples and the Great Buddha are main attractions and souvenir shopping adds the excitement. Kamakura was established by the first Shogun, Yoritomo Minamoto, in 1192 and the shogunate government lasted till 1333. He established his Samurai government which ruled over Japan. After arriving at Kamakura or Kita-Kamakura station, the visitor can easily walk around the city. This city is easily accesable by train from Yokohama (less than 30 minutes) and Tokyo (less than 1 hour). As for my background, I have experienced staying in Louisiana in the United States and studied at the university there. Now I am 60 years old and I am still working for a company, while at the same time, I work as a volunteer guide a few days a month in Yokohama city. I like traveling in foreign countries, and have experienced short time staying at several European countries, North America as well as some Asian countries. Last January, I travelled San Fransico and Merced city, California. I would be delighted to exchange cultural experience with many visitors from all over the world. If you happen to be visiting my country and if you are interested , please feel free to contact me. Toru Ishii
Japan
Yoshi S.
4.98 / 5
(62 reviews)
4.98 / 5
(62 reviews)
Hello, I'm Yoshi!! I started my second career as a tour guide after retiring from the Japanese computer company I had worked for about 40 years. I was born in Asakusa and grew up in down town in Tokyo. I’m married with two daughters and three grandchildren, two girls and a boy. I've experienced guiding international visitors in Tokyo and other famous sightseeing spots as a guide for several years. I will be so happy to help you enjoy your stay in Japan. Look forward to joining my tour!!
Japan
Jaime A.
5.00 / 5
(13 reviews)
5.00 / 5
(13 reviews)
Welcome to Tokyo! With over seven years in Tokyo and a deep-rooted fascination with all-things-Japan, I blend deep cultural insight with the curiosity of a seasoned traveler. Fluent in English, Japanese, and Spanish, I specialize in hidden gems, pop culture, retro neighborhoods, and unforgettable food adventures. My tours are personalized, immersive, and designed to show you the real Tokyo—beyond the tourist trail. Whether you’re after anime nostalgia, historic temples, or local eats, I’ll make Tokyo your most memorable destination yet. ⸻ What I Offer Whether you’re visiting Tokyo for the first time or the fifth, I offer personalized tours tailored to your unique interests. From cultural deep-dives and street food crawls to anime pilgrimages and retro neighborhood walks, each tour is crafted to give you an experience that only a local insider can provide. ⸻ Let’s Create Your Dream Tokyo Adventure Your Tokyo adventure starts with a simple chat. Tell me what you’re into—art, food, temples, vintage shopping, hidden bars, subcultures—and I’ll design a completely custom itinerary just for you. Want to tweak it? No problem. You’re in full control, and I’ll make sure every moment is smooth, engaging, and unforgettable. ⸻ Experiences You Can Expect • Hidden gems far from the tourist trail • Retro and Showa-era neighborhoods • Anime, manga, and gaming hot spots • Foodie adventures from street snacks to high-end sushi • Scenic views, iconic sites, and photo-ready moments • Flexible pacing and thoughtful local insight Because Tokyo isn’t just a city—it’s a feeling. Every street corner, every flavor, every hidden shrine tells a story—and together, we’ll experience it not like tourists, but like the locals do. Ready to Explore? Your Tokyo journey, crafted your way — let’s make it unforgettable!
Japan
Ritsuko K.
5.00 / 5
(81 reviews)
5.00 / 5
(81 reviews)
Hi, I'm Ritsuko, a national licensed tour guide. I was born and raised in Tokyo. As Tokyo is a city of many faces, I hope you will discover your hidden gems during the tour. I love to wander around the shops and places downtown and one of my hobbies is to find daily-use products made in Japan. So I can select unique souvenirs for you within your budget! I am football-mad and have been to every FIFA World Cup except one tournament since 1998. I also love to go island hopping in Asia. That's why I have been to over 30 countries. Wherever I went, people were so kind to me. So, it's my turn. I will do my best to make your tour a memorable one! Hope to hear from you soon.
Popular Kyoto Tour Guides
Japan
Fumi U.
5.00 / 5
(2 reviews)
5.00 / 5
(2 reviews)
I have spent nearly 30 years working with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), contributing to development projects in Latin America and African countries. During this time, I cultivated strong cross-cultural understanding and effective communication skills. For the past 10 years, I have lived in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Guanajuato, Mexico, where I managed a guesthouse, operated a jewelry workshop, and provided guided tours. Through these experiences, I have developed a deep sense of hospitality and attentiveness, ensuring that visitors have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Leveraging these skills, I am dedicated to sharing the beauty of Japan with international guests and creating unforgettable travel experiences.
Japan
Yasuhisa K.
4.98 / 5
(46 reviews)
4.98 / 5
(46 reviews)
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.
Japan
Shuji O.
4.95 / 5
(40 reviews)
4.95 / 5
(40 reviews)
Hi, I am Shuji, a licensed tour guide living near Kansai International Airport. I taught world history in high schools for four decades. So, I can explain Japanese culture or history in an easier way tailored to you who have different cultural and historical backgrounds. I also practiced Kendo, Japanese fencing, for more than four decades, and now I enjoy growing vegetables and going fishing. Therefore, I can also share some Japanese culture and its nature. I have traveled to more than 25 countries and all over Japan. I’m also passionate about photography and know many photogenic places in Japan. If you prefer to go off the beaten track, I can take you to hidden gems, including some cozy restaurants. Of course, I also know how to enjoy the crowded, most popular tourist sites. I am here to make your trip stress-free. See you soon!
Japan
Hiroko D.
4.97 / 5
(88 reviews)
4.97 / 5
(88 reviews)
Hi, I'm Hiroko. I was born in Kyoto and currently live in its suburb. My parents are also from the ancient capital city, so some of its historic places were like my playgrounds when I was a child. Now, as a national certified tour guide, I would like to show you around not only Kyoto but also Osaka and Nara enjoyably and time-effectively. For your reference, I lived in New York, U.S.A. for about 20 years and worked there for about 17 and a half years, so I believe that I will be able to communicate and speak well with you in English. My motto as a guide: If you are happy, I'm happy. Please don't hesitate to ask me to customize your tour. I'm looking forward to seeing you soon!
Popular Osaka Tour Guides
Japan
Shuji O.
4.95 / 5
(40 reviews)
4.95 / 5
(40 reviews)
Hi, I am Shuji, a licensed tour guide living near Kansai International Airport. I taught world history in high schools for four decades. So, I can explain Japanese culture or history in an easier way tailored to you who have different cultural and historical backgrounds. I also practiced Kendo, Japanese fencing, for more than four decades, and now I enjoy growing vegetables and going fishing. Therefore, I can also share some Japanese culture and its nature. I have traveled to more than 25 countries and all over Japan. I’m also passionate about photography and know many photogenic places in Japan. If you prefer to go off the beaten track, I can take you to hidden gems, including some cozy restaurants. Of course, I also know how to enjoy the crowded, most popular tourist sites. I am here to make your trip stress-free. See you soon!
Japan
Hiroko D.
4.97 / 5
(88 reviews)
4.97 / 5
(88 reviews)
Hi, I'm Hiroko. I was born in Kyoto and currently live in its suburb. My parents are also from the ancient capital city, so some of its historic places were like my playgrounds when I was a child. Now, as a national certified tour guide, I would like to show you around not only Kyoto but also Osaka and Nara enjoyably and time-effectively. For your reference, I lived in New York, U.S.A. for about 20 years and worked there for about 17 and a half years, so I believe that I will be able to communicate and speak well with you in English. My motto as a guide: If you are happy, I'm happy. Please don't hesitate to ask me to customize your tour. I'm looking forward to seeing you soon!
Japan
Tatsuhiro N.
4.60 / 5
(67 reviews)
4.60 / 5
(67 reviews)
It took me some 20 years to be qualified for this job and I feel honored for being able to help tourists from abroad understand our nation and culture. Japan is a beautiful country with a long history, tradition and rich cultural heritages, having various features in each of the four distinct seasons. Although there are now many visitors from abroad, mainly from Asian countries, they are mostly interested in shopping taking advantage of cheaper yen rather than understanding our people and culture. Kyoto and Nara are the two cities best known by foreign tourists, but not all the aspects of Japanese culture are concentrated there. If you visit the countryside other than these two cities, you will never fail to see the beautiful natural surroundings and people who will warmly welcome you. I wish to work as the bridge between Japanese people and tourists from all over the world.
Japan
Koichi W.
4.96 / 5
(84 reviews)
4.96 / 5
(84 reviews)
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.
Popular Hakone Tour Guides
Japan
Yoshi S.
4.98 / 5
(62 reviews)
4.98 / 5
(62 reviews)
Hello, I'm Yoshi!! I started my second career as a tour guide after retiring from the Japanese computer company I had worked for about 40 years. I was born in Asakusa and grew up in down town in Tokyo. I’m married with two daughters and three grandchildren, two girls and a boy. I've experienced guiding international visitors in Tokyo and other famous sightseeing spots as a guide for several years. I will be so happy to help you enjoy your stay in Japan. Look forward to joining my tour!!
Japan
Kahoko K.
4.96 / 5
(355 reviews)
4.96 / 5
(355 reviews)
Hello , my future guests . My name is Kahoko . I live in Tokyo over 30 years with my family , one husband and two kids . I used to work in an airline as a cabin attendant . Naturally , I may have visited your countries myself as you do now . I chose the job because I like traveling and meeting new people . Now I'm so glad to be able to work for foreign visitors as a licensed guide . When I have foreign guests . I'd like to treat them as if they were my home stay guests , and I were their host mother in Tokyo . I do hope their stay in Japan enjoyable and unforgettable . So it's a great pleasure to assist you in some way . So click me if you like . I'm looking forward to meeting you soon .
Japan
Fumiko I.
4.86 / 5
(36 reviews)
4.86 / 5
(36 reviews)
Hello! I'm Fumiko, a licensed national tourist guide. I love Japanese culture such as Japanese way of arranging flowers, calligraphy, origami or folding paper, and wearing yukata. If you would like to experience these kinds of things Japanese, I can arrange for you. I'm good on Japanese history, too. I'd like to show you around Tokyo and other places with their historical backgrouds, if you like. As I had worked for a travel agency for a long time, I can help you travel smoothly and I'd like to meet your request as much as possible. I often guide Asakusa, Ueno, East Garden of Imperial Palace, Tsukiji, Ryogoku, Yanesen, Meiji Jingu , Harajuku and so on.
Japan
Leandra I.
4.98 / 5
(56 reviews)
4.98 / 5
(56 reviews)
I’ve called Japan home for seven years, embracing everything from Tokyo’s vibrant urban energy to the tranquillity of the countryside. Before becoming a guide, I explored Tokyo like a curious long-term traveller, uncovering unusual temples, quirky landmarks, hidden backstreets, local live music venues, rural mountain villages, and one-of-a-kind cultural gems. My passion lies in crafting immersive journeys that dive deep into Japan’s heart, sparking a sense of wonder and escape that makes travellers feel worlds away from home. I’m excited to guide you through the Tokyo labyrinth. This city is endlessly fascinating—so layered and dynamic that even with a lifetime here, you’d only scratch the surface. I’ll show you how to navigate it like a local, as mastering the transport system isn’t as tricky as it seems, and I’ll help you gain the confidence to explore Tokyo on your own while we focus on the city’s hidden treasures. Together, we can visit parts of Tokyo most travellers overlook—the nostalgic charm of the Shitamachi, the hustle of salaryman districts, the neon-lit buzz of cyber Tokyo, and tranquil local power spots. Let’s discover the city’s hidden depths and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Popular Hiroshima Tour Guides
Japan
Rika F.
5.00 / 5
(24 reviews)
5.00 / 5
(24 reviews)
I was born and raised in Hiroshima, and my love for this city led me to switch from nursing to guiding. As a guide, I specialize in Hiroshima city downtown, Miyajima, Futaba no Sato, Onomichi, and Tomo-no-Ura. I also introduce secret photo spots and hidden gems. Using my experience as a nurse, I prioritize meticulous care and bring my natural brightness, aiming to provide a guide experience that allows you to fully enjoy Hiroshima.
Japan
Kahori M.
5.00 / 5
(8 reviews)
5.00 / 5
(8 reviews)
Hi, I'm Kahori, a nationally licensed guide interpreter, and have just started working with GoWithGuide! I’m delighted to show people around this area. For the past almost 10 years, I have mainly guided foreign medical professionals around Hiroshima City and Miyajima, gaining a deep understanding of the effects of radiation and the support for A-bomb survivors. Hiroshima is a city of rivers and the sea. Along the rivers Cherry trees line, and the calm Seto Inland Sea, dotted with islands, creates a stunning landscape. Also, the sea has many islands called "art islands" which have fantastic arts relating to the art festival "Setoushi Triennale". In addition to our two World Heritage Sites, this area is rich in attractive resources. I hope many of you will come and experience this fascinating land. Personally, I am very passionate about modern art and enjoy sports like stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) on our rivers. I look forward to meeting you, interacting with you, and also, learning from you!
Japan
Mayumi I.
4.95 / 5
(151 reviews)
4.95 / 5
(151 reviews)
Hi, I'm Mayumi IIDA from Hiroshima. National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter. I am here to welcome you as your Japanese friend to help you understand Japanese culture, history and everything you want to know more and better. My tour is geared for the more independent-minded travelers. The option lets you customize your tour with a variety of activities. Your day in Hiroshima is a blank page, waiting you for writing your own tales. I am sure that you will encounter a lot of charms and delightful surprises in my hometown Hiroshima. Enjoy local hospitality and food with me !
Japan
Miyu F.
5.00 / 5
(7 reviews)
5.00 / 5
(7 reviews)
My name is Miyu. I have been a Nationally Licensed Guide Interpreter since 2009. I began my career as a tourist guide last year after working as a public servant for nearly four decades. I worked in the Atomic Bomb Survivors Support Division for 12 years until I retired from the local government, and I continue to interact with Hibakusha. Therefore, I have a lot of knowledge about A-bomb survivors, the reconstruction of Hiroshima, and the effects of radiation on the human body, which I can correctly convey to inbound visitors. I have experience in tea ceremonies and calligraphy and am especially good at guiding visitors through tea ceremony experiences. I love to watch baseball games, so I enjoy talking about them with guests from countries where they are popular. I am a volunteer medical interpreter and can respond to visitors' sudden health problems.
Popular Kanazawa Tour Guides
Japan
Raphaël P.
5.00 / 5
(19 reviews)
5.00 / 5
(19 reviews)
Hello Explorers, If you're looking to discover Kanazawa, Shirakawa-go, Takayama, Kaga and more, of the beautiful surrounding regions in a way few ever do—you’re in the right place. Since making Kanazawa my home in 2019 with my Japanese wife and our children, I’ve immersed myself deeply into the local culture, traditions, and daily life. This city and its surroundings aren't just places I guide through—they’re part of my story. With a rich background in tourism, hospitality and the performing arts, I bring a seamless, heartfelt energy to every tour, offering you not just information, but real connection and insight. Get ready for picture-perfect moments, unforgettable local flavors, inspiring stories, and tips that will make your entire stay even more memorable. Choose to explore with me, and let’s create experiences as rich, vibrant, and lasting as Japan itself.
Japan
Yoshie K.
5.00 / 5
(45 reviews)
5.00 / 5
(45 reviews)
Hi, I am Yoshie. I am a national government licensed English speaking Guide. I used to work for multinational companies and served as an interpreter for several years and travelled around Japan with coworkers. I love plants, nature, travelling as well as finding good places to eat! I am also a communicative person. After having lived in Tokyo for some decades, now I live in my hometown, Fukui where you can have a great experience of Zen buddhism in the head temple of the Zen sect, Eiheiji which was founded in 1244. Fukui Dinosaur Museum is very popular regardless of age. It is one of the world's three largest dinosaurs. Echizen is also well known for Japan's handmade crafts including kitchen knives, washi paper, lacquer wares, Tansu chests and pottery. Seeing craftsmen's work right in front of you makes you excited and impressed. I have been travelling Kanazawa since my high school age so I know well about the town to show you around as well as Shirakawago, a day trip from Kanazawa. I am excited to meet you and coordinate what you are really interested in to make you the happiest memories in Japan. I look forward to guiding you soon!
Japan
Yukari S.
4.97 / 5
(33 reviews)
4.97 / 5
(33 reviews)
Hi! I'm Yukari. I'm a government licensed guide of Kanazawa city.(Kanazawa Visitor's Host) I was originally born and raised in Toyama prefecture. I had moved 2 times within Hokuriku region in my childhood for my fathers job. I've been living in Ishikawa for 16 years in total.(4years in my childhood and 12years since I married. ) I have a family of 4. I'm raising 2boys and have 2dogs. I love animals, nature, music, photos, camping, and good food. So if you feel that I might have a similar taste with you, my tour will bring you a satisfied explore. Here in Kanazawa, tourists have been increasing in number since the opening of Hokuriku Shinkansen in 2015. Many of foreign tourists are walking around throughout the city holding their smartphone by hand. Every time I see those people, I felt that I might be able to do something which make their trip more memorable. This is the reason why I took the license of Kanazawa Visitor's Host and started a local tour guide. Although I've just started as a tour guide in 2018,I sincerely enjoy making a personalized plan that every single guest would be able to make the day here in Kanazawa perfectly. I have ever lived in Toyama, Fukui, Ishikawa, Chiba, Tokyo (Japan),and Toronto (Canada). I have ever been to USA (Seattle, LA, CA, NY) Australia (Cairns) New Zealand(Auckland) Korea, China, and Canada (many cities). Let's go for Kanazawa tour just for you! Please feel free to contact me if you have any inquiries. Yukari
Japan
Yuichi W.
4.70 / 5
(23 reviews)
4.70 / 5
(23 reviews)
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!
Popular Nara Tour Guides
Japan
Yasuhisa K.
4.98 / 5
(46 reviews)
4.98 / 5
(46 reviews)
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.
Japan
Shuji O.
4.95 / 5
(40 reviews)
4.95 / 5
(40 reviews)
Hi, I am Shuji, a licensed tour guide living near Kansai International Airport. I taught world history in high schools for four decades. So, I can explain Japanese culture or history in an easier way tailored to you who have different cultural and historical backgrounds. I also practiced Kendo, Japanese fencing, for more than four decades, and now I enjoy growing vegetables and going fishing. Therefore, I can also share some Japanese culture and its nature. I have traveled to more than 25 countries and all over Japan. I’m also passionate about photography and know many photogenic places in Japan. If you prefer to go off the beaten track, I can take you to hidden gems, including some cozy restaurants. Of course, I also know how to enjoy the crowded, most popular tourist sites. I am here to make your trip stress-free. See you soon!
Japan
Hiroko D.
4.97 / 5
(88 reviews)
4.97 / 5
(88 reviews)
Hi, I'm Hiroko. I was born in Kyoto and currently live in its suburb. My parents are also from the ancient capital city, so some of its historic places were like my playgrounds when I was a child. Now, as a national certified tour guide, I would like to show you around not only Kyoto but also Osaka and Nara enjoyably and time-effectively. For your reference, I lived in New York, U.S.A. for about 20 years and worked there for about 17 and a half years, so I believe that I will be able to communicate and speak well with you in English. My motto as a guide: If you are happy, I'm happy. Please don't hesitate to ask me to customize your tour. I'm looking forward to seeing you soon!
Japan
Hiroshi Y.
4.68 / 5
(336 reviews)
4.68 / 5
(336 reviews)
Hello,I am HIROSHI YOKOYAMA. Please call me Hiro, not "hero". I have been lived in kyoto for more than 30years. So, I am very familiar with the city of Kyoto and a unique culture developed in Japan as well. I can offer you not only historic places like Nijo castle, Kinkakuji temple ,Kiyomizu temple etc., but also off the beaten track spots Nijo jinya house or nicknamed "ninjya house" ,Katsura Imperial Villa etc.. I am really looking forward to seeing you .
Popular Fukuoka Tour Guides
Japan
Chiyako H.
5.00 / 5
(4 reviews)
5.00 / 5
(4 reviews)
I am a licensed guide interpreter. I have seven years of working experience in a foreign company, where I enjoyed communicating with people with various backgrounds. So I love my job as a guide that can broaden my view through direct interaction with foreign visitors. I have been living in Fukuoka for 20 years. Among several cities I have lived or stayed in before, Fukuoka is the best place with rich nature, history, exciting urban areas and excellent cuisine! Let me help you fully enjoy your stay in Fukuoka through my tour.
Japan
Masazumi T.
5.00 / 5
(4 reviews)
5.00 / 5
(4 reviews)
Explore Fukuoka with a Friendly Local Guide! Hi, I’m Masa T. — a passionate and experienced local guide based in Fukuoka. Over the past 6 years, I’ve had the pleasure of guiding more than 1,100 travelers from the U.S., Europe, Australia, and Asia as a volunteer guide. My goal is simple: to help you discover the best of Fukuoka through fun, personalized, and flexible tours. I have created many tour courses based on my local knowledge and interests, and I’m also happy to offer customized tours tailored to your specific preferences and schedule. I studied in the U.S. for 1 year and 8 months, and later worked as a manager at a major Japanese company, where I collaborated with engineers from various countries. I then served as a director of a group company for 7 years. These experiences have helped me connect easily with people from all over the world. After exploring, I’d be happy to introduce you to some of the best local restaurants, where you can enjoy Sushi, Tempura, Sukiyaki, Ramen, Teppanyaki, and more. Let’s make unforgettable memories together in Fukuoka!
Japan
Tadashi M.
4.83 / 5
(12 reviews)
4.83 / 5
(12 reviews)
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.
Japan
Kazue I.
5.00 / 5
(38 reviews)
5.00 / 5
(38 reviews)
Hi! I am Kazue. I am from Fukuoka and live in the central city. I spent almost 20 years traveling around the world as a cabin attendant. Meeting different people, different cultures and eating local food were best things in my career. This experience definitely widened my perspective and will help me in some way when I work as a guide. Since I spent half my life outside of Japan, I noticed our culture and traditions are very unique and became more interested in historical sites in Japan. For my personal life, I am a mom of twins. It is still a hard work but I am enjoying a lot with them. We take them around Kyushu whenever possible for their fun and experience. We all love traveling after all. I am looking forward to showing you around our hometown soon!
Japan Tour Reviews
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Dave P.
5 / 5
Jun 6, 2025
“Excellent comprehensive tour of Shimizu ”
Moto was a wonderful tour guide. He gave us choices of things to do and see. After being picked up from our cruise ship in a clean, air conditioned van, we took the Nihondaira ropeway tram to look out over Suruga Bay. The six of us experienced a traditional tea ceremony at a small green shop with a tea field where we also got to pick some new tea leaves. Lunch was at a lovely hotel restaurant. The hotel, to me, appeared to be beautifully maintained from many years ago. It was not a tourist restaurant, but one that locals went to for a special lunchtime experience. There was a young couple in traditional wedding apparel having their wedding pictures taken in the beautiful Japanese gardens. We climbed high to view a shrine and Mt Fuji. It was a beautiful clear day and our views of the mountain were perfect. There were vendors selling sweet strawberries and delicious Fuji apples larger than softballs that were sliced and cored for us. At one of the Five Lakes, our group was given a motor boat ride around the perimeter of the lake, where once again we viewed Mt Fuji in a very different way. Visited Miho sea coast with black sand beach and the green pine grove where the pine trees are twisted into unusual, but beautiful configurations. Moto always provided us with lots of history and answered our questions. Restrooms everywhere were clean and very modern. At the end of our very full tour, Moto returned us to our cruise ship. Shimizu was the Japan I had always imagined and wanted to visit.
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Roland W.
5 / 5
Jun 6, 2025
“A great opportunity to get to know Tokyo”
Yuki was a very pleasant and knowledgeable guide through Tokyo. She gave us in-depth knowledge of Japanese history and culture and explained the sights at Meiji Shrine, in Asakusa, the work of Hokusai, and much more in a very understandable way. She responded spontaneously to our current wishes regarding what else we could visit.
J
Judy Y.
5 / 5
Jun 6, 2025
“Initial D tour”
Yukiko was an excellent guide. She planned our trip to Shibukawa for our grandson and it was a perfect tour for him. Yukiko was in constant communication with us in the planning and we could not have had a better guide for the day.
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Local Tour Guides in Japan
Enhance your Japan experience with our fully customizable private tours, and let a local guide take you on the adventure of a lifetime, from Okinawa to Hyogo.
Celebrate Japan’s onsen culture with private tours that get to the heart of onsen etiquette, grant access to translated information, and creates opportunities to share local stories with a guide, making your experience more culturally enriching.
Looking to relate to Japan’s people on the same level? Bypass the language barriers that discourage interaction by having a bilingual guide act as a bridge between you and the residents, whether you’re in the quaint villages like Kurama and Kibune, or the bustling streets of Tokyo.