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Japan Private Tours & Local Tour Guides
Plan a Trip to Japan with Local Tour Guides, and Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and More.
Popular Japan Tour Guides
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Michael G.
Originally from Canada, I've been living in Japan for 35 years, most of that in Miyazaki. I speak the language and I know the area better than most locals. In Miyazaki, there is a lack of public transport so I'd be happy to drive you to places like Aoshima (a beautiful beach and surfing hub), Udo Jingu (a unique seaside shrine), the samurai and merchant residences of Obi, and introduce you to the best spots for local food, shopping, or nightlife, as well as let you in on a few hidden secrets of Miyazaki if you have the time.
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Hiroshi M.
I’m a local licensed guide based in Kochi Prefecture. I grew up by the Pacific Ocean in Kochi and spent four years each in Tokyo and the United States—giving me both deep local knowledge and a global perspective. Although I’m new to GoWithGuide, I’ve been welcoming international guests for years through my private rental villa in Aki City and as a local guide in Kochi. Working in the travel industry, I know not only the famous landmarks but also the hidden gems of the region. All the photos you see here were taken by me—I enjoy photography, and if you’d like, I’d be happy to capture some memorable shots for you during the tour.
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Rieko S.
Hello! I am Rieko, a licensed tour guide with a deep passion for sharing the wonders of Gunma. Located in the center of the main island of Japan, Gunma has been a place where travelers from various parts of Japan, like Tokyo, Niigata, and Nagano, come and go. Some would relax in a hot spring, others would be encouraged by beautiful scenery. Gunma has helped them rejuvenate and keep traveling with energy. Drawing from my experience as a local tour guide and knowledge of Japanese culture, history, and traditions, I offer you a seamless and immersive journey. Embark on an adventure with me and discover the untold stories, hidden treasures, and vibrant local communities that make Gunma a truly remarkable destination. I hope to see you soon!
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Kazue I.
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!
New Japan Tour Guides
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Sawyer S.
After studying western religion, I flew to Japan to study Buddhism & Shinto. I trained as a monk in the Japanese alps of Fukui prefecture, and learned traditional crafts including washi paper-making, knife making, and tea ceremony. I've visited all 47 prefectures of Japan in my decade in Japan. Now I live in Kyoto, which has some of the grandest temples and shrines in all of Japan. My goal is to find joy through connection and share what I've learned. As I'm new to GoWithGuide and seeking reviews, I'm currently offering discounted rates!
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Aya M.
Hi, I’m Aya! A local guide from Osaka, born and raised in a traditional Japanese farmhouse. My family has been growing Mitsuba(japanese traditional vegetable)and seasonal vegetables for generations, and I love sharing the authentic countryside lifestyle with guests from around the world. After studying and working in Australia, I realized how deeply travelers value real connection with local people. That inspired me to create experiences where visitors can feel everyday Japan — not just observe it. In my tours, I introduce guests to the heart of Japanese culture: • Hands-on farm experiences at my family’s fields • Calligraphy in our traditional Japanese home • Tea time on the engawa, surrounded by nature One of the things I cherish most is omotenashi —Japan’s unique spirit of hospitality that values sincerity, care, and putting others before oneself. Through my experiences, I hope to share this quiet richness of Japanese life: the warmth, the thoughtfulness, and the deep sense of connection that locals naturally offer. My style is warm, welcoming, and relaxed. I guide at your pace, answer any questions, and make sure you feel comfortable — like visiting a friend’s home in the countryside. If you’re looking for genuine culture, meaningful moments, and a true local connection, I’d be honored to welcome you. Feel free to message me anytime.
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Victoria N.
My name is Victoria, and I’ve been living on Okinawa for 10 years. Would you like to visit non-touristy places known only to locals? I’ll be happy to show them to you! For more than six years, I’ve been guiding tours and sharing the beauty and atmosphere of this unique island with visitors. I love Japan — its culture, history, and anime — and I’m always excited to share not just facts, but the soul of this place. On my tours, you will see not only the famous landmarks, but also hidden, fascinating corners of the island that few people know about. With me, you will experience the real Okinawa: taste local cuisine, hear legends, learn traditions, and glimpse the everyday life of the islanders. I speak both English and Japanese, so I can help you feel confident and comfortable in any situation. If you want not just a tour, but a living journey with someone who is truly in love with Japan, I’ll be happy to guide you!
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Sara E.
"Chuuganabira" or "Hello" as we say here in Shuri! I'm Sara. My mother is Japanese from Nagasaki and my father is American from Pennsylvania. I spent my formative years between Japan and the U.S. giving me a naturally bicultural outlook and global sensibility. I am a hospitality professional with over 35 years of experience in Japan’s international hotel and tourism industries having held senior positions with world-renowned hotels. I have also worked as a simultaneous interpreter for major Japanese organizations supporting large scale cultural and international events. I relocated from Tokyo to Naha in 2003 because I totally fell in love with this beautiful port city during my travels - the warm friendly people, delicious local food, rich history and culture and most of all the breathtaking turquoise ocean and magnificent blue sky. My passion is making people happy through "omotenashi" - the Japanese art of polite, thoughtful and respectful hospitality. I specialize in Shuri Castle tours. I have insider access to Shuri Castle through my onsite research, a membership in the Shuri Castle Friendship Association and a strong connection with both the castle's staff and the Okinawa Churashima Foundation which operates the castle. I also have deep ties with the Sho royal family giving me unparalleled insights into the history and culture of the Ryukyu Kingdom. I am looking forward to introducing you to the royal, majestic and fascinating world of Shuri!
Popular Japan Private Tours
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Haruna Shrine and Ikaho Walking Tour
With its well-proportioned and beautiful appearance, Mount Haruna, one of the representative mountains in Gunma, is known as "Haruna Fuji". This tour visits two major tourist spots located on the hillside of Mount Haruna: Ikaho Hot Spring and Haruna Shrine.
Haruna Shrine and Ikaho Walking Tour
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Fukuoka Yatai stall hopping tour
Are you keen to experience something very unique and traditional in Fukuoka? If yes, try delicious local food in Yatai stalls! Yatai, open air food stands are probably the city’s best known symbol and a “must try” during your stay! Traditionally sitting shoulder to shoulder at the counter, these mobile Yatai kitchens have usually 8 to 10 seats and provide you with a cozy unique atmosphere. An experience you will never find anywhere else!
Fukuoka Yatai stall hopping tour
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Hiroshima City Tour Highlights (4.5 Hours)
Hiroshima is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. As you explore, don't miss these must-see sites that capture the spirit of the city. This tour includes Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Museum, Atomic Bomb Dome, Shukkeien (a stunning Japanese garden), and Hiroshima Castle known as "Carp Castle". These sites are a glimpse of what Hiroshima has to offer. The tour is flexible, allowing you to tailor the experience by adding destinations that capture your interest.
Hiroshima City Tour Highlights (4.5 Hours)
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Hakodate Classic Charm Tour – 8 Hours of Beauty *Walking tour
Join me on an exciting journey through Hakodate’s most captivating sights. Step back in time at the star-shaped Fort, feel the energy of the bustling Morning Market, and wander the romantic streets, filled with charming architecture. Soak in breathtaking views from the top of Mt. Hakodate and stroll through the historic Red Brick Warehouses, now home to trendy shops and cafes. With stories, surprises, and scenic beauty, this tour is perfect for curious travelers looking to truly feel Hakodate.
Hakodate Classic Charm Tour – 8 Hours of Beauty *Walking tour
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New Japan Private Tours
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Kyoto Photo Tour: 1,000 Red Torii & Magical Old Streets
This is a Kyoto photography tour for traveling couples and families. I am an Instagram influencer with over 10,000 followers, and I will help you create beautiful, shareable photos in Kyoto. In this early-morning half-day tour, we visit iconic spots such as the 1,000 red torii gates and the peaceful bamboo grove. I will take professional portraits of you with my camera and portrait lens. After the tour, I will select and send you the best photos, so you can keep these special memories of Kyoto
Kyoto Photo Tour: 1,000 Red Torii & Magical Old Streets
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Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo
Kamakura is where Japan’s spiritual roots quietly remain. Once the political heart of the country, today it is a coastal town where temples, daily life, and nature coexist at a human pace. This 7-hour day trip by train is designed not to rush through sights, but to understand why this place still matters to Japanese people. Your guide walks beside you as a local companion, connecting history, belief, and everyday life into one continuous story.
Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo
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Eat, Drink & Experience Tokyo After Dark
Tokyo feels completely different at night. This tour is a relaxed and fun introduction to Tokyo nightlife — from casual izakaya dining, to cozy local bars, and finally to a uniquely Japanese nightlife experience such as a girls bar or cabaret club. You don’t need to worry about language, rules, or choosing the “right” place. Your local guide takes care of everything, explains the culture, and makes sure the night is safe, smooth, and enjoyable.
Eat, Drink & Experience Tokyo After Dark
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Tokyo East in a Day
Tokyo’s east side is where everyday life and memory quietly remain. This journey follows the rhythm of older Tokyo — temples still woven into daily routines, neighborhoods shaped by long relationships, and streets where time moves gently. You walk through places that have survived change not by resisting it, but by absorbing it. Your guide walks beside you not as a lecturer, but as someone who knows these streets — letting stories surface naturally through place, pause, and conversation.
Tokyo East in a Day
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Popular Japan Private Cars
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Aoshima and Nichinan Coast half-day tour
We start at one of the greatest attractions in Southern Japan, magnificent Aoshima beach and its historical shrine, plus a chance to visit some local shops and tropical gardens. Then, we drive down the beautiful Nichinan seaside coastal road with several recommended seascape photo ops (Horikiri Pass, Futo no Totoro) along the way, to the mysterious and atmospheric Udo Shrine, built into a cliff rock face above the crashing sea before returning to Miyazaki City.
Aoshima and Nichinan Coast half-day tour
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Kochi Highlights Tour with Licensed Guide and Private Car Pick-Up
Explore Kochi’s top highlights in one day with a local licensed guide! Visit Kochi Castle, Chikurinji Temple, and Okawasuji Samurai Residence or Makino Botanical Garden, and enjoy local food at Hirome Market. The tour is flexible—we can visit other spots based on your interests. All photos were taken by me, and I’m happy to take photos of you during the tour and share them afterward as a free souvenir. Perfect for first-time visitors who want a personalized and memorable experience in Kochi.
Kochi Highlights Tour with Licensed Guide and Private Car Pick-Up
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Haruna Shrine and "Initial D" related places in Shibukawa
A day trip that travels around Haruna Shrine, Lake Haruna, and "Initial D" (manga)- related places in Shibukawa. This tour also stops at Ikaho Onsen, a renowned hot spring town. *Please note: This tour is suspended from January to mid-March due to winter road conditions and for customer safety.
Haruna Shrine and "Initial D" related places in Shibukawa
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ONE PIECE Statues Tour. All 10.
All 10 statues in one tour. All your favorite ONE PIECE characters are in Kumamoto. As part of a collaboration with Eiichiro Oda, author of ONE PIECE born and raised in Kumamoto City, a total of 10 statues of the Straw Hat Pirates of ONE PIECE have been installed throughout Kumamoto Prefecture. The One Piece statues are part of a larger project to help Kumamoto recover after the 2016 earthquakes and are being built thanks to the cooperation of and extremely generous donation from Mr. Oda.
ONE PIECE Statues Tour. All 10.
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Japan Tour Reviews
Sally H.
“Best tour guide in Kyoto!”
Akira was an incredible tour guide, very professional but so warm and accommodating, with a lovely sense of humour. He made us feel very welcome and at ease. His superb historical knowledge of Japan and the Emperor and Samurai brought Kyoto alive for us. We were totally enthralled for 8 hours. He is just simply the best! Totally and unreservedly recommend! You won’t be disappointed!
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Ben H.
“Fantastic day trip in Kyoto for the whole family”
Our family (kids, parents and grandparents) spent a great day with Jasmine around Kyoto. She was very thoughtful and attentive and made sure a great time was had by all, including making sure the kids had things to do when they started to get a bit bored! I highly recommend booking Jasmine for a Kyoto tour!
Katie B.
“Great experience with delicious food ”
Shusaku picked us up conveniently in our hotel lobby and guided us via subway to the market. It was an easy, laid back, and informative experience from start to finish. We loved all of the vendors he suggested - you can tell he knows the best ones to go to, and we had a fun and engaging conversation while strolling through the market. He felt like a friend we’ve known for years and we would highly suggest his services!
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Shusaku M.
Thank you so much for the lovely review! I genuinely had a wonderful time with you and really enjoyed our day together. It was a pleasure meeting you, and if you ever return to Japan, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Wishing you an amazing rest of your journey here! Arigatou Gozaimasu!!!!!!!!!
Japan Private Tours & Local Tour Guides
Uncover Japan’s secrets and gain travel knowledge with a local private tour guide. Unlock hidden gems, cultural immersion, and an unforgettable journey.
With a tour guide, you can get to the good stuff, like the ethereal Tottori Sand Dunes and quaint Kinosaki Onsen. From enjoying bespoke traditional ryokans, to navigating the busy streets of Osaka, a tailored journey through Japan’s wonders only gets better with a local expert leading the way.
Beyond the big ticket destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, getting a personalized itinerary transforms a simple tour into lifelong memories. Customized by a local guide, your itinerary can feature lesser known sites like the Shikisai-no-Oka flower fields, where stunning panoramic views of colorful flowers await.
Japan Frequently Asked Questions
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Latest Japan Articles
All Tours Customizable
Start By Messaging Your Guide
100% Private Tours
Just You and Your Local Tour Guide
Quality Assured Guides
Screened and Verified via Interviews
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