Kobe Private Tours &amp; Local Tour Guides

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.

Yoshihisa T.

4.97 / 5

(185 reviews)

Hi. My name is Yoshihisa. Call me "Yoshie", please. It means good or O.K. in Japanese. I live in Joyo City, Kyoto Prefecture, located just in between Kyoto and Nara. I was born and raised in Iga, Mie Prefecture. Iga is a birthplace of ninja and a renowned haiku poet, Matsuo Basho. I might be a descendant of ninja. I aim at becoming a linguistic ninja, following a part of Basho's lifestyle with the incorporation of seasonal changes into my tours. In addition to visiting famous temples and shrines, I invite you to lesser-known places of historic interest. Once in a month I go hiking or mountain climbing with some friends mainly in mountains surrounding Kyoto and Nara basins. Recently I have got intrigued by the charms of Buddhist statues, which are manifestations of people's wishes and prayers. I also like izakaya (Japanese-style taverns) hopping, tasting delicious dishes and locally brewed sake at reasonable prices. Especially I like communicating with people from home and abroad, talking face to face. Some of the above-mentioned elements are included in my walking tours. I hope you will discover new aspects of cultural and natural beauty in Kansai area through one of my tours which you could never gain otherwise. One of my favorite phrases that come from Zen Buddhism is Ichigo Ichie or this meeting-but only once in a lifetime. My interpretation goes this way: This place and this moment never cross again. Each and every good encounter, however, lingers on like the sound of a temple bell. Won't you explore a deeper world of Japanese culture in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka with me?

Atsuko T.

4.95 / 5

(41 reviews)

Hello. My name is Atsuko.I'm a licensed tour guide in Japan. I have lived in Osaka since I was born. I have guided many tourists all over the world as a volunteer for 6 years. I like showing my tourists my favorite places in Japan and talking with them. Osaka, where I was born and raised, is famous for foods, modern and ancient cultures. Nara and Kyoto, which are neighboring places, were ancient capitals in Japan. I'm happy to visit those places with you.

Makoto Y.

4.96 / 5

(94 reviews)

Hello, I’m Makoto (Mac) and I'm a national-licensed tour guide. My previous career as an automotive engineer, gave me the opportunity to learn English and to live in the US, Germany, and England. After I retired, I learned more about the Japanese history especially focusing on Nara and Kyoto to become a historical specialist of the Nara area. I now live in Ikaruga town in Nara prefecture, where the UNESCO World Heritage, Horyuji temple is located. I regularly offer guides on the Fujinoki tumulus, which is located near the Horyuji temple. It contains very interesting Archaeological findings from the end of the Kofun Period. Recently, there are many foreign tourists who come to Japan, and I hope they enjoy learning about the culture and history of Japan. I would like to help tourists have a broader and deeper understanding of the Japanese culture and that is the reason why I decided to become a tour guide to help and support their experience in Japan. Nara is the place where Japan started. The capital was located in Asuka, Fujiwara and Nara before it moved to Kyoto. Therefore, there are many places to visit in Nara to trace the original history of Japan, which I have a depth of knowledge. Let’s explore the roots of Japan together!!

Kenji M.

4.73 / 5

(73 reviews)

Hi I'm Kenji I have a government license of tour guide interpreter in English. I was born and raised in Kyoto, an old capital of Japan over one thousand years So I'm very familiar with many sightseeing spots and attractions of the city Kyoto is a fascinating and picturesque city drawing lots of foreign tourists every year I can show you around not only popular historical sites and relics but also its various attractions such us Zen silent meditation, traditional sweets cooking, kimono-clad walking and so on. I can also provide tailored tours fitting to your liking. I like a famous Zen phrase "Ichigo Ichie" meaning "Treasure every encounter for it will never recur" So I always try to enjoy guiding every tourist with my best hospitality. Zen concepts have greatly influenced many aspects of Japanese culture I will explain some of them and allow you to explore Zen world through some of my tours Please contact me any time. I'm looking forward to seeing you and spending wonderful time with you. See you soon !

Eric T.

4.89 / 5

(46 reviews)

Hallow ! This is Eric Tanaka. I was born in Kyoto, and I have been living in Kyoto. I am sure that Kyoto is one of the best city for sightseeing and living. I wish if I can introduce some nice places for you by walking around city streets. Also, in suburbs, there are a lot of nice sightseeing places such as Bamboo forest, Monkey park, Fushimi shrine, Zen practice temples and so on. Let's enjoy Kyoto town and Kyoto food.with me.

Natsuko I.

(3 reviews)

Hello! My name is Natsuko. Thank you for visiting my page. I used to work for a trading company, which gave me the opportunity to use English with overseas business partners. After leaving the company, I became an English teacher for children and I discovered that I really enjoy spending time with kids. I also had the experience of being a host family for international students, and it was so fulfilling to show them around various tourist spots and see them happy. I hope you can have a wonderful experience in Japan too! Would you like to join one of my fun tours? I look forward to seeing you again!

Shuji O.

4.90 / 5

(10 reviews)

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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!

New Kobe Tour Guides

Reiko N.

Hi, my name is Reiko. Ciao, tutti! Sono Reiko, sono guida turistica autorizzata in Giappone.Possiamo visitare zona Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe e etc.... Potete avere l'esperienza straordinaria con me. Vi aspetto in Giappone. I am National Licensed Guide, Italian language. I speak also English. I know very well, most popular place and nice food.....

Eco H.

Eco has called Kyoto his home for the last 7 years, and now he hopes to share with you all he has learned of this wonderful city and the surrounding area. Recent graduate with a background in Japanese history and religion, he is now a professor a university in nearby Kobe city. Therefore, if you are particularly interested in learning more about the history and culture of Kyoto he can provide exciting narratives to go along with visiting the delightful sites. Throughout his time in Kyoto he has been working as a guide for numerous organisations, including guiding around Japanese tourists visiting Kyoto, and has provided many with a unique view of the city.

Kiyoshi U.

Hello everyone! I’m Kiyoshi 36-year-old Japanese man. I love ONE PIECE,NARUTO and love drinking with friends of many different backgrounds around the globe. I’d love to show you what Japan really is like and I d also like to help to communicate with local young guys and senior gentlemen and ladies. Let’s get together to enjoy real Japan

Takashi K.

4.50 / 5

(2 reviews)

This is Takashi Kikuchi, a passionate guide, who is so happy to share my favorite spots of the hidden gems with you. I am sure that you've come across so many highlight tours on the website though, my tours are very powerful in unique temples, arraggeing your custom tour, featured with off-the-beaten path experiecne. Also, it's possible to provide you special walking tours upon your needs and budget. (I can make some inexpensive tours too) Don't hesitate to reach out to me! Thank you

Naoki H.

4.93 / 5

(15 reviews)

Hi! My name is Naoki, I was born and bred in Osaka. I have a reliable and friendly personality and always enjoy making people smile. I am a full time Experienced Tour Guide organizing and managing tours, not just in Osaka but all over the Kansai-area including Kyoto, Nara, Kobe and Hiroshima. I have experience in directly managing groups of over 500 travelers so far and also designing specific itineraries for different needs and sights. If you have any specific sights that you would like to see then please let me know and I will accommodate as many sites as possible into any tour. Outside of my tour guiding, I have had a career over 15 years in Japanese car logistics taking care of lots of international businesses which allows me to have a professional manner in face to face communication. Osaka is a brilliant city with long history, amazing street food, unique accent (so we have lots of comedians here!) and also known as the most friendly city in Japan. I would love to be the perfect companion for your visit to one of the best cities in Japan! I look forward to seeing you soon! Best Regards Naoki

Kenji O.

(6 reviews)

I lived in Seattle, WA US for several years to study public policy and urban planning at University of Washington and Washington State Department of Transportation . The US life has awakened me to realize its beauty and value of the Japanese nature and culture. After coming back from US, I have started my professional career of the infrastructure development in both developed and developing countries as a Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) expert for more than 20 years. I have provided hospitality and honesty as a Japanese during my professional career. I can give you not only sightseeing tours but also technical tours with my expertise. I live in Osaka where an ancient capital city, Kyoto is located within a hour by train. I can show you how Japanese has developed the capital city with urban planning and infrastructure development. I look forward to seeing you here in Japan.

Noboru S.

(11 reviews)

Hello, everyone! Welcome to Japan. My name is Noboru. I’m a national licensed guide. I was born in Osaka and spent my university student life in Kyoto. And now I have been in Himeji for over 35 years. These cities are in Kansai aea. So,I'm very much familiar with the sightseeing spots and attractions in the area, especially Himeji and its neighboring cities. If you are looking for someone to show you around the area, please join my tour. I will show you special local dishes in the area as well. Looking forward to seeing your smile soon.

Tad T.

(2 reviews)

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Hello everyone, it's Tad! I was born in Osaka, raised up in Kobe, and came back to Osaka for my university and work. I studied clinical psychology in my university. I specialize in children who have developmental disorder such as Down's syndrome, autism, ADHD and I care for the left-behind children whose parents can’t look after them due to their work or private reasons. I used to help them with their homework as a student volunteer. When I was a university student, I went abroad to Australia for the first time in my life, which made me want to know outside world more. I went to see the outside world, which made me get to know the amazing aspects of my own country. I truly see the beauty of Japan and kindness of people. So that after the graduation of my university, I decided to move to Australia with working holiday visa for two years. In Australia, I bought a car and traveled whole around Australia doing labor work. During my time in Australia, I was surprised by the beauty of nature and how wide the world is, and I was helped and well treated by locals. Also I realized that Japan has a very unique and beautiful culture. That experience made me want to share Japanese culture and help you experience Japanese hospitality. I’d like to do my best to make your precious memories in Japan just like how local people in Australia treated me as a part of their family. After returning from Australia, I spent 3 months backpacking around 17 countries of Europe. To tell international guests about Japanese culture, history and hospitality, I became a rickshaw runner in Kyoto Arashiyama. That’s why I became an officially licensed English guide of Kyoto city and decided to live my life as a professional English guide. As I’ve lived in Kobe, Osaka and Kyoto, I’m good at guiding these cities and customizing private tours for FIT (foreign independent travel) guests. Especially I hold a cultural food walk tour which complies with any special dietary restrictions in Osaka’s night out spots. 【Career Summary】 Bilingual professional tourist guide of officially certificated by Kyoto city. Hold 5 years extensive tourism experience working with private sector and by myself. Introducing both history and tradition of Japan to the visitors from Japan and all over the globe (Over 1,500 people). Generally passionate for the arts and people of Japan. 【Qualification】・Officially licensed English guide of Kyoto city (since Sep 28th 2019) hence high knowledge about Japanese culture , history and historic site. ・Excellent communication skills in oral and written Japanese and English. 【Summary of your academic and work history】 2003-2007 Kansai University of Welfare Sciences ・Studying clinical psychology (Especially child psychology) 2007-2010 Working holiday in Australia. ・2 years of overseas experience. 2012-2014 EBISUYA Rickshaw Rikishaw (human powered car) driver in Kyoto, Arashiyama. ・Providing historical guiding and showing beautiful, historical and famous scenes to passengers. ・Hosted 1,372 guests in total. 2014-2018 Working for a company in Osaka ・Sales person in charge of Australian and Southeast Asian market. 2018- Bukkyo University (in Kyoto) ・Studying at a correspondence course of English Language and Anglo-American Literature to get an English teacher’s license of middle and high-school students. 2019- ・Hold Bar hopping activity in Osaka Hosted 120 groups. Review 4.98 (111 reviews) 2019- ・Hold Cooking class activity in my house Hosted 40 groups. Review 5.0 (34 reviews)

Popular Kobe Private Tours

Himeji Castle, The Set of The Last Samurai or Engyoji Temple

9 hours 30 min

In 1993, Himeji Castle was designated as the first World Cultural Heritage site in Japan. Because of its striking beauty and elegance, it is popularly known as the "White Egret castle", but in fact it was an impregnable fortress. Next, I would like to introduce you Engyoji Temple, where the movie "Last Samurai" starring Tom Cruise and Ken Watanabe was shot. The temple is located about 6 kilometers northwest from the Castle. We can take a bus and a ropeway from Himeji station to the Temple.

KOBE Golden Tour

Kobe is one of the two largest ports in Japan. The city is well sheltered by a range of hills, with a population of about 1.5 million ranking it the 8th largest city in the nation. I can take you to Kitano Ijinkan (Foreigners' residential area), Meriken Park, Cinese market and Kobe Port Cruising. Kobe is very famous for Kobe beef, so if you want, I can take you to Kobe beef restaurant. Basically we use city loop bus for about 1,000JPY/person and your entrance fee is about 1,000JPY/person.

KOBE: Arima Onsen, Rokko Ropeway, and Sake Tasting

You can enjoy the Arima Hot Spring resorts, Mt.Rokko, and Sake Tasting. Arima onsen is one of the three oldest hot-spring resorts in Japan. In the 16th century, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the warlord who unified Japan for the first time in 1590. We take cable car to the Rokko Garden Terrace, where you can command a panoramic view of Kobe. Then we go to Arima Onsen by opeway. Of course you enjoy having public Onsen, and Hotel onsen you can feel relaxation for about 2,000JPY/person.

Kobe Arima Rokko One-day Tour

This tour is designed for those who would like to enjoy a variety of experiences in Kobe in a single day. The tour includes a visit to Ijinkan Town ( a former foreign residence area ) in Kobe, hot spring bathing in Arima Onsen, an aerial cableway riding from Arima to Rokko and taking in a splendid view of Osaka Bay from the top of Mt. Rokko.

Hiroshima One-Day Tour from Kyoto

9 hours 30 min

Itsukusima Shrine, floating shrine in the sea will attract you. At this district, the difference between high tide and low time is 3-4 meters, and the you can walk to the Large size Torii in the Sea Hiiroshima Atomic Bomb Dome, and Atomic bomb Museum will remind you why the World Peace is important for Human-being.

Exploring Kobe, Hyogo

9 hours

Kobe come to a vital life again from intense earthquake that hit on Jan 17, 1995. Kobe always creates us a resplendent, exotic mood that the cosmopolitan city has. The old foreign settlement where sophisticated modern architecture still remains upper town must be the reason to ferment that atmosphere and give the period of cosmopolitan flavor. At Meriken Wharf, you can hear the whistles of ships and touch cultural history in this city.

Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Kobe City

In the north, the mountain. In the south, the sea... In the middle, you! Visiting this so beautiful city. We will explore Kobe from all its points of view.

NARUTO WHIRLPOOL and OTSUKA MUSEUM of ART

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10 hours

I guarantee you enjoy the nature and artworks. Naruto whirlpool is one of the three major whirlpools in the world. Please take a look at my blog "NARUTO WHIRLPOOL with VIDEO" In Otsuka Museum of Art, you can see ceramic reproductions of famous artworks. The most magnificent one is Sistine Hall in Vatican with "The Last Judgement" by Michelangelo. All the paintings are reproduced porcelain panel paintings in the original size and space. Don't miss it!

New Kobe Private Tours

KOBE local tour

4 hours 30 min

Our tour will take you on a delightful exploration of Kobe's North Hill district, known for its charming foreign residences and rich historical background. As we stroll through the streets, you will be captivated by the unique blend of international influences and local culture. Join me on this unforgettable journey to discover the hidden gems of Kobe's North Hill.

Kobe beef & highlights in Kobe from my local

We take pride in our local connection that allows a swift journey from KIX airport to the beautiful Kobe area via a high-speed boat.Starting with a quick trip to Kobe, relishing the finest Kobe beef, and hit the major sightseeing attractions and waterfront area via loop bus, all tailored to our local ways.

Kobe One-Day Tour

Kobe is blessed with rich nature, surrounded both sea and mountains. And a result of it's unique history, Kobe has the charm of a blend of Japanese and Western culture. By joining this tour you will discover the multifaceted charm of Kobe!

CAMINATA CORTA PARA SHOSHAZAN Y VISITA AL CASTILLO DE HIMEJI

8 hours 30 min

La ciudad de Himeji alberga dos lugares representativos en los que habían realizado rodaje de varias películas, uno es el Castillo de Himeji,y el otro es el templo Engyoji.El templo es pocos concurridos por turistas internacionales y nacionales por lo que mantiene serenidad. En este tour realizando caminata apreciaremos más la tranquilidad.

EL CASTILLO DE HIMEJI Y EL TEMPLO DE "ULTIMO SAMURAI"

Himeji cuenta con variedad de lugares maravillosos. El templo de Engyoji y el Castillo de Himeji son los lugares históricos más representativos mantienen el estado original de la época antigua. Ambos han sido lugar de rodaje de varias películas nacionales e internacionales y tambièn ofrecen vista panorámica de esta ciudad.

Visite Guidée Privée d'une Journée de la Ville de Kobé

Au nord, la montagne. Au sud, la mer... Et au centre, vous ! En train de visiter cette bien belle ville. Nous allons explorer Kobé de long en large. C'est magnifique !

Kobe : Hyogo Golden Route (one of five tours)

8 hours 30 min

Hyogo prefecture is about 150km long in north-south direction. There are many sight seeing spots, not only Kobe, Himeji but also Izush-Toyooka, Tanba-Sasayama Awaji island. So Hyogo government decleared "Hyogo Golden Route" as recommended tours. I would like to guide those areas where tourists do not know well. Each area is one day tour. You can have a different experience from Kyoto or Osaka.

Romantic　Kobe

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Kobe is famous for a port which was opened to foreign trade in the second half of the 19th century for the first time after long isolation policy in the past. That means Kobe is rich in an air of exotic compared to other cities in Japan. I'd like you to enjoy Kobe with a little bit different atmosphere.

Popular Kobe Private Cars

☆Kobe Day Tour with a Private Car

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.

☆Kobe Day Tour with a Private Car

3 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. Please choose the itinerary from A or B.

☆Kobe Day Tour with a Private Car

3 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. Please choose the itinerary from A or B.

☆Kobe Day Tour with a Private Car

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.

Kobe City to Arima Onsen Private Transfer

0 hours 50 min

Private transfer service from Kobe City to Arima Onsen. After pick you up will go directly to your destination without sightseeing.

Kobe City to Arima Onsen Private Transfer

0 hours 50 min

Private transfer service from Kobe City to Arima Onsen. After pick you up will go directly to your destination without sightseeing.

Tour to/from Kobe Port, playing at the anime theme park "Nijigen-no-mori"!6hours Jumbo Taxi

6 hours

Our experienced local cab drivers will guide you safely. Nijigen no mori" has many anime theme parks, so you can experience your favorite attractions. *The experience fee is not included.

Day Trips from Kobe

Kyoto

Osaka

Hyogo

Okayama

Himeji

Other Hyogo Locations

Kobe Tour Reviews

Sequoya M.

5 / 5

Apr 17, 2024

Kobe Arima Rokko One-day Tour

Apr 17, 2024

“Exploring Beauty in Kobe”

We had a wonderful time exploring Arima and Mt Rokko in Kobe. Arima is so beautiful and charming. It was great to walk around, get lunch at a local spot and soak in an onsen. The views from Mt Rokko was amazing. We had some limitations as we were doing this tour as part of a shore excursion. Our time in port was shortened and Yoshihisa was so accommodating and helped us adjust slightly the itinerary so we were able to see as much as we can. Yoshihisa was amazing and very knowledgeable. We learned alot, had a wonderful time and was awed by the beauty of the area. I highly recommend this tour and guide.

Yoshihisa T.

(185 reviews)

Hi Sequoya. Thank you so much for your wonderful comment on my tour in Arima Onsen and Mt. Rokko. It was lucky for us that the cherry trees were in full blossom in Arima on the second week of April and that we were able to get a nice view of Kobe Port and Osaka Bay from the top of the mountain. I hope our paths will cross again someday in the near future. Best wishes. Yoshie

Brenda A.

5 / 5

Apr 4, 2024

Himeji Castle and Koko-en Garden Half Day Tour

Apr 4, 2024

“Kobe full day tour”

Noboru was a very kind man who met all of our needs....he was allowing us to be flexible due to some people with mobility issues....I would recommend him to anyone Brenda

Noboru S.

(11 reviews)

Thank you very much for your warmhearted review. I also enjoyed the day very much together. It was so wonderful to see their smiles. Hope to see you and work with you again next time you come back to Japan!

Myriam C.

5 / 5

Mar 30, 2024

KOBE Golden Tour