
Hakone Private Tour Guides
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Popular Hakone Tour Guides
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Kaori S.
Kon-ni-chi-wa. Hello! I'm Kaori, having lived in Tokyo for more than 20 years since I got married to a photographer who lives here. Originally from Shizuoka prefecture which has Mt.Fuji, the highest mountain in Japan. I took 2 working-holiday-visa stays in my younger days. One is in Toronto, Canada, and another is Australia touring by motorcycle. One year respectively. I love travel both international and domestic. I myself love travel freely. That's how I love helping individual travelers like you. Love nature, gardens, trekking, greenery, also anime. My favorite is taking you to the off-the-beaten tracks where I love and sharing my seasonal favorites. I'm happy to make tailor-made tours only for you (up to 4 people) upon your request. ・Half Day as you like (up to 4 hours) : 40,000 JPY ・Full Day as you like (up to 8 hours) : 64,000 JPY ・Extra hour over 8hours : 6,000 JPY/hour I often spend multiple days with the same group to accommodate itinerary for multi days by including my seasonal favorites. I often do Mt.Fuji or Hakone tour. In many cases, the locations are mixed up between Mt.Fuji Five Lakes area and Hakone area, which are not the same place. Please refer to the map I uploaded on gallery to check the sites you are interested in. Also my blogs will help your understanding both areas - "The location difference of Mt.Fuji (Fuji Five Lakes) and Hakone". As a national government licensed guide, I've got deep knowledge of Japanese culture and history. But more than that, I really enjoy talking about the way of life with people from different cultures. I'm quite an outgoing person, ( but organized well! ), easy to get along with anybody, including small kids to teenagers. Can't wait to see you soon!
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Yoshi S.
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!!
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Kaneo U.
I’m so excited to have a chance to show you around my favorite spots in Kanagawa prefecture. I was born in Kanagawa. I spent my whole school life, including university, here in Kanagawa. I worked as a high school English teacher here for more than 40 years. I love Kanagawa so much. We have many interesting tourist spots, like Hakone, Kamakura, Enoshima and Yokohama. I got my tour guide license in English in 2009. I am still an English teacher. To give an interesting and impressive lesson to young high school students, I’ve learnt and gathered many kinds of information. I also have a license to teach social studies, so I have a wide range of knowledge about Japanese culture and history. I’m sure to provide you an interesting tour.
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Koichiro Y.
Hello! I’m Koichiro. Please call me “Yamasan”. It derives from my family name and my friends call me so. I worked for a machinery company as a project manager and engineer for mechanical and electrical construction projects both domestic and overseas for over 35 years. I recall my first overseas project in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia when I was 26, and the second was in Singapore. I visited many countries for surveys, meetings, commissioning, project handing over, and so on. In 2014 at the age of 60, I decided to retire from the company and live the expected further 30 years of life with a new career and experiences. I, then, studied translation and guide interpretation. I passed the national examination for licensed guides (English) in 2015 and registered with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government in February 2016. Until now, I have been guiding many beautiful guests mainly to popular sightseeing spots such as Asakusa, Tsukiji, Omote-Sando, Meiji Jingu Shrine, and Tokyo Skytree, and also cultural experiences of Origami making, Furoshiki wrapping, and Sushi cooking. I am happy that I can freely arrange a customized tour together with you, or can propose my tours to you. I want to show you some parts of daily Tokyo life and introduce you to Bunkyo City which is located in the heart of Tokyo, just north of Chiyoda City where the Imperial Palace and Tokyo Station are. The city is Tokyo’s typical residential and academic area where I was born, grew up, and live a happy life now. Now, we can tour around the world but have not yet overcome COVID-19 completely. Recently, the number of passengers wearing masks on public transportation in Tokyo reduced to some 25% but we should mind about it still. Please carry your mask to wear it where or when necessary (December 2024, Yamasan).
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Naoya U.
My Name is Naoya. I was born in Tokyo in 1952. After my graduation from Keio University, I joined a Japanese bank. Mainly I was assigned international business and stayed in London for three years. At the age of 52, I moved to a Japanese manufacturer company and had worked for 11 years. As a personnel manager, I engaged in hiring Indian graduates. Then for two years, I went to Tashkent in Uzbekistan as a JICA senior volunteer. I taught "corporate finance" at Tashkent Financial Institute in English. I got the guide license in 2017, After I came back to Tokyo, I am working as a volunteer guide, especially in Shinjuku. I hope to create special and deep tours in which tourists are interested but by now they were not able to gain access to. For example; Visit to various Universities, Visit to narrow streets in Tokyo, Visit to feel Edo (Now and Then) My hobby is playing the guitar. I hope we are in peace through music. I am also interested in Art, History and cooking. My major subject is economics and finance.
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Fumi M.
Born and bred in Tokyo I am still living in the suburbs of Tokyo. I spent several years in the U.S. and the UK and wanted to show international visitors around Japan in return for the hospitality I had received in foreign countries. After coming back from the UK, I obtained the qualification of the National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter. I can guide guests to every corner of Tokyo including areas off the beaten track. As a history fan I can tell you a historical episode behind the scenes. From a local perspective I can explain how we Japanese are getting along. Since I have science and technology backgrounds, I can give you a tour of scientific or technical things as well..
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Shoji K.
Hi! Welcome to Japan. My name is Shoji Kitamura, a licensed English-speaking tour guide. Please call me Shoji that is the same sound as a sliding screen made of wood and paper you may have seen in a traditional Japanese room. I was born and raised in Yokohama next to Tokyo but lived for work in several beautiful and historical cities such as Nikko, Hiroshima, and Ise which have world heritage sites and/or national park. I fully enjoyed the nature, culture and lives in each city where I lived. I retired after 36 years with a national research institute of fisheries in 2016. During my career, I visited 5 continents except Antarctica, more than 20 nations for attending international scientific conferences, conducting collaborative research or teaching some technologies, etc. In Japan, I often took foreign scientists and government officers sightseeing. I had great times in these opportunities. Such experiences made me decide to become a licensed English-speaking guide interpreter after retirement to introduce Japanese nature, culture, foods, etc. properly to many tourists coming to Japan from all over the world. For more than 20 years I’ve been living in Nikko, which is located about 150km north of Tokyo, and designated as a World Heritage site and a National Park. If you consider a day trip from Tokyo, I strongly recommend coming to Nikko by 2-hour train ride from Tokyo. I am looking forward to showing you around in this historical and beautiful town. Besides Nikko, I can also guide you in Yokohama, my home town, and in neighboring city such as Tokyo and Kamakura.
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Mitsuru S.
KON-NICHI-WA (Hello)! I’m Mitsuru I was born in Hokkaido, the northern part of Japan. When I was five, my family moved to Seattle, USA. That’s when my classroom teacher gave me the name “Mark,” and I also began learning English — though it was children’s English then. After I returned to Japan at the age of eleven, I faced many challenges adjusting to a new environment. It was tough and it continued till maybe recently, but absolutely it helped me notice the differences and similarities between the two countries. These experiences have truly become the backbone of my career as a tour guide. My favorite subject is Japanese history, especially Shintoism, Buddhism, and samurai culture. Since I also studied architecture at university, I enjoy introducing visitors to Japan’s unique buildings and structures. Above all, what I love most is making your trip enjoyable. I want you to feel relaxed, safe, and secure throughout your journey. I hope to see you someday soon. Thank you very much.
New Hakone Tour Guides
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Dave F.
I am a Japanese National Tour guide and professional taxi driver. I provide you with an efficient and comfortable tour using my luxury minivan, a Toyota Alphard.
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Jalil E.
Hi, I'm Jalil ! I’ve called Japan my home for 15 years and speak English, French, and Arabic. Let's be honest: you don't need a guide to read Wikipedia facts or show you Google Maps routes. Instead, travelers book a day with me for mental peace, authenticity, and deep local insight. I absolutely love walking—it's how you truly learn a city and notice the charm of its tiny, hidden side streets. Spending a decade and a half living, working, and thriving in Kanagawa and Tokyo gives me firsthand knowledge of local networks and cultural nuances that algorithms miss completely. Respecting your time and energy, most of my tours are efficient, high-value 4-hour experiences where I handle the "hard part" first. We will conquer the complex train hubs, bypass heavy crowds, and unlock local culture together. Once you have your bearings, I'll hand you a list of local secrets and leave you with total free time to explore securely on your own! If you want a deep dive, I am always open to extending our journey into a full 8-hour day tour—just message me to scale the day. With me, you get a trusted multilingual friend who understands your international perspective, expectations, and travel needs. How I love to help my guests: • Hidden Local Secrets: I guide you past crowded commercial tracks into cinematic residential side-streets, hidden 700-year-old shrines, and authentic local neighborhoods. • Language & Etiquette Bridge: I act as your translator so you can comfortably eat at neighborhood spots with no English menus or browse traditional boutiques. • Honest, Commission-Free Guiding: I never accept shop kickbacks or use tourist traps. My recommendations are 100% independent. • Personal Photographer: I will gladly take nice photos of your group throughout our walk so everyone is in the picture! I am fully flexible and happy to customize the pace, starting times, and locations to match your group's comfort. Send me a message, and let’s design your perfect day in Japan!
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Nicolas M.
Hello! I am a French guide who has been living in Japan for over 26 years. I am passionate about Japanese history, culture, traditions and everyday life. My goal is not only to show you famous landmarks, but also to help you understand the stories, customs and way of thinking that make Japan so unique. I have more than one hundreds days of experience as a guide. If you wish a tour but which is not already in my created tours, in my area , I can create one according to your demands. I speak French, Japanese and English, which allows me to communicate easily with both visitors and local people. I offer private tours in Tokyo, Kamakura, Hakone, all regions in Kanto like Kawaguchiko, unknown places with a wonderful view of Mont Fuji from Shuzenji, Yokohama and the beautiful coastal town of Hayama. Whether you are visiting Japan for the first time or returning to discover hidden places, I will adapt each tour to your interests and pace. Before becoming a full-time guide, I worked as a French chef and pastry chef in Japan for many years. This experience has given me a deep appreciation of Japanese craftsmanship, hospitality and attention to detail. I enjoy sharing history, local stories, food culture and practical insights that you won’t always find in guidebooks. I look forward to helping you create unforgettable memories during your trip to Japan!
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Mark K.
I have been a fan of Japan since a very young age and decided to study International Business so I could experience living here for a year. I came back for more many times and decided I want to live here as long as I can. After spending 3-4 years in Tokyo it was only natural for me to share this wonderful place with other people!
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Masa O.
I spent many years in the automotive industry and international consulting, including extensive time living and working in the United States. While I am very comfortable hosting business executives, I truly love sharing the "heart of Japan" with families and senior travelers. I enjoy making my tours feel like a walk with a knowledgeable friend—whether we are discussing the latest design trends or the deep history of a hidden temple. My goal is to bridge the gap between cultures with a smile, ensuring that every guest, from busy professionals to curious grandkids, feels welcome and inspired.
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Dai O.
Hello! I'm Dai, a tour guide in Tokyo with a national license of "Domestic Travel Service Supervisor". I was born and raised in Tokyo, offering a private tour! Flexible itinerary for any ages :) I also help you improve your itinerary with my suggestions for free during your trip. I do love superb foods, music(guitar), Kawaii stuff, cultural exchanges and languages. I would not only help you also become your friend in Japan! Feel free to contact me and let me hear your questions. I used to living in Australia before and traveling over 20 countries. I have been working as tour guide and interpreter in Tokyo. I would like to show you many hidden gems so that I want to make your trip more memorable! :)
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Yuki N.
I grew up in Kanagawa, and have lived in Tokyo, Kobe, Shizuoka, Shikoku and Shonan area in Japan. I have also lived and worked in the US at a Japanese international company. I have a lot of experiences to communicate with US people through my job. I understand what foreign people want to experience in Japan! I will be able to take you anywhere, anything you want. I hope to be a good friends with you!
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Yumiko O.
Hello, my name is Yumiko, and I am a licensed tour guide based in Japan. It is my pleasure to share the beauty of Japan with travelers from all over the world. I have guided many visitors through Tokyo, Kamakura, Hakone, and other famous destinations, as well as hidden gems that only locals know. My goal is always to create a tour that is not only informative but also enjoyable and personalized to your interests. With a warm and flexible guiding style, I love helping guests discover Japan’s traditions, history, and everyday life. Whether you are interested in temples and shrines, delicious local food, or simply strolling through charming streets, I will do my best to make your time in Japan unforgettable. I am excited to announce that I have started offering tours in Odawara! Odawara is a historic castle town located just an hour from Tokyo, famous for its impressive Odawara Castle, beautiful views of both the sea and mountains, and its role as the gateway to Hakone. In addition to exploring the castle and tasting local specialties such as fresh seafood and kamaboko (fish cakes), you can also enjoy many Instagram-worthy spots, from the scenic coastline to charming traditional houses that give a glimpse of Japan’s past. Odawara is still less crowded compared to other popular destinations, so it’s a great time to visit. I look forward to welcoming you and creating wonderful memories together!
Hakone Tour Reviews
Brian N.
“A wonderful day doing the Hakone loop”
Kashima san was an absolutely wonderful guide. I I booked him for a private day tour originating in Tokyo and taking the Shinkansen to Hakone to do the loop and visit in Onsen. He met me at my hotel and was incredibly professional organized and knowledgeable. Throughout the day, he shared information with me about the sites we were seeing and about Japan in general, including some really interesting history and aspects of Japanese culture. He even printed out an organized folder for me covering the things we would do during the tour as well as some interesting reading about Japan in Tokyo. The restaurant he picked for lunch had fantastic food. Aside from that he is a delightful person to spend a day with. Highly recommended!
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Kashima H.
Brian san, thank you very much for your upmost review to me. We visited Hakone from Tokyo including Oowakudani valley with riding Hakone mountain train, Cable car and Ropeway and Hakone shrine where many historical Shogun and high-level Buddhist monks also had visited to pray for their success and Brian san asked me very much unique request to make experience of brief hot spring which is located just near Hakone Yumoto station. Thanks to your aggressive curiosity and physical strength to acquire Japanese culture and nature beauty, I was very much inspired to exchange various information and lots of conversation for each tour spot and also enjoyed funny conversation for various topics for both Japan and USA. I hope that you visit Japan again in near future so that I can introduce other nice tour spots for you. Thanks, Kashima
Tanja C.
“Easy day of touring for my 83 yr old mother and I ”
I organized a full day of touring in/ around Hakone for my 83 yr old mother and I with Yuki. He was wonderful to communicate with prior to arriving in Japan. Yuki gave me several options for places to visit that would accommodate my mother’s limited mobility as well as some needed travel tips. We met up with Yuki when there was a big storm passing through so we adjusted our plan - my mom had also wanted to incorporate more shopping. Yuki was so flexible, thoughtful regarding my mom’s needs, easy to be with and an excellent driver! He brought us to the volcano lookout, then to a nice local shopping area, followed by a fantastic Udon noodle lunch and last we visited a samurai exhibit at a castle. He even stopped at a 7-11 to help me choose candy to bring back to the states! Yuki was interesting to talk with/ learn about life in Japan and he speaks outstanding English as he has travelled to America many times. I would highly recommend touring with Yuki!
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Yuki N.
Thank you for the review! I'm very happy to hear you and your mother enjoyed Hakone and Odawara city. The tour was excited even to me. We explored the local places such as knives shop, driving around the downtown of Odawara city and the local souvenir shops targeting local people. Thank you again and see you again when I visit Alaska!
Sharon C.
“Day trip to Hakone”
We had a great visit in Hakone led by Tan F. She is very enthusiastic and is flexible in scheduling trips to ensure her guests get to experience the sights they most want to see. It is so much easier to leave the driving to someone local rather than having to navigate bus/walking routes, especially as Hakone is quite hilly and the narrow roads can get very busy. With a private tour, you and Tan F. can work out where you want to go and how long you do/do not want to stay, which my husband and I think is well worth the extra cost vs a larger group tour.
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Tan F.
Dear Sharon, Thank you for your kind review! You and your husband were wonderful guests, and your thoughtful preparation really made the tour a success. We were so fortunate to have such great weather! As a quick note, Mount Fuji just got its first dusting of snow a few days ago, though visibility can still vary day to day. I wish you wonderful safe travels and great guides on all your future adventures!
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