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Kyoto Private Tour Guides
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Popular Kyoto Tour Guides
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Michiko N.
Hello, and thank you for visiting my page! I’m Michiko, a local guide born and raised in Kyoto. I love meeting people from around the world and sharing the spirit of Japanese hospitality.and I love fun things! I went to the UK to watch musicals, and recently I spent a year living in Thailand — experiences that deepened my love for art, culture, and people. Besides guiding, I also work in theater and performance art, creating unique shows in shop windows! Let’s explore Kyoto together and find its heart — the beauty, people, and stories that make it special! with BIGLOVE!
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Yasuhisa K.
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.
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Syed atif Y.
A Local Friend in Kansai — Meet Atif Hey there! I’m Atif, a travel lover who’s been calling Osaka home for the past few years. What started as a curious adventure quickly turned into a deep love for this region — the food, the people, and all the little hidden corners that make Kansai so special. Now, I spend my days sharing those discoveries with travelers who want to see the real Japan — not just the postcard version. What I Offer Fun & Flexible Tours: No boring scripts here! I plan each tour around you — whether you love taking photos, tasting street food, exploring quiet temples, or getting lost in neon-lit backstreets. Local Secrets: After years of wandering Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe, I’ve found the best hidden gems — from tiny noodle shops to peaceful gardens and back-alley shrines. Laughs & Memories: My tours aren’t just about facts — they’re about fun. Expect stories, local legends, and maybe even a karaoke challenge (if you’re brave enough)! Why Travel with Me Because travel should feel like exploring with a local friend, not following a flag in a crowd. I love good food, spontaneous detours, and showing people the Kansai that most tourists miss. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, I’ll make sure you experience something new — and unforgettable. Let’s Start the Adventure! Ready to explore Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, or Kobe? Let’s laugh, learn, eat, and wander together — Kansai style!
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Akira F.
Hello, my name is Akira , and I am a private guide based in Kyoto. I specialize in creating customized tours that are tailored to your interests and travel style. Kyoto is a city rich in history, culture, and hidden beauty, and I would love to share its charm with you. Whether you are interested in famous landmarks like Kiyomizu-dera and Fushimi Inari, exploring peaceful temples and gardens, or discovering local food and traditions, I will design a unique itinerary just for you. My goal is to make your time in Kyoto not only enjoyable, but also meaningful and memorable. I look forward to guiding you and helping you experience Kyoto like a local.
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Fumi U.
I have spent nearly 30 years working in a Government organization, 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.
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Nikki K.
I'm a Certified English Interpreter Guide accredited by Kyoto, Uji, and Otsu cities — top performer in Kyoto's official training program and selected for Japan’s elite government project for VIP luxury travel. Having lived in 7 countries for 30 years — including 9 years in the U.S. (California, New York, and Texas) — I bring a truly global perspective and deep cultural understanding to every tour. A descendant of Hijikata Toshizo, one of Japan’s legendary “last samurai,” I was raised with a strong appreciation for history and the bushido spirit. Before becoming a guide in Japan, I worked as a licensed NYC tour guide, British Airline flight attendant, medical interpreter, and TV reporter — all roles focused on connecting with people and sharing cultures. I love showing my guests not only Japan’s must-see landmarks but also hidden local gems off the beaten path. I mainly guide in Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Uji, and Tokyo upon request. From fun street food adventures to refined cultural and luxury experiences, I design each private tour to match your interests and create unforgettable moments that last a lifetime. I look forward to welcoming you and sharing the true heart of Japan!
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Shuji O.
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!
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Hiroshi Y.
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 .
New Kyoto 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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Kazuma Y.
Hi, I'm your local guide based in Nara,Kyoto,and Osaka. I create tours that feel like exploring the city with a friend — warm, easy, and full of real local experiences. My goal is to help you discover the food, culture, and hidden stories of Japan in a fun and relaxed way. Looking forward to sharing an unforgettable time with you!
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Masa M.
My company is a tour operator in the Arashiyama area of Kyoto City. The owner is Masahiko Miyake. Arashiyama is a very attractive town. I was born and raised in Kyoto, and now I live in the Arashiyama area. Therefore, I have more knowledge and confidence about this area than most people. Arashiyama is home to the World Heritage Site Tenryu-ji Temple. This area was a villa district for aristocrats during the Heian period, so it features a beauty where nature and residences are integrated.
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Teri D.
Hi, I’m Teri - your local tour guide in Kyoto! I grew up in Japan and have always loved sharing its beautiful culture, traditions, and hidden gems with travelers from around the world. Before becoming a guide, I worked as a flight attendant, which taught me how to take care of people from all walks of life and make every journey special. Whether it’s exploring Kyoto’s peaceful temples, charming streets, or local food spots, I’ll make sure you experience Japan with warmth, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
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Yuka M.
Hello! I'm Yuka. I was born and raised in Kyoto through and through. I know Kyoto inside and out. I am a Kyoto City Certified Interpreter Guide. I want visitors to truly experience and understand the city where I was born and raised. With many years in customer service, I take pride in my communication skills and hospitality. Having studied in U.S.,I enjoy cultural exchanges and connecting with people from different backgrounds. I also love sharing Japanese cuisine-how to make it and the culture behind it-so I can guide you through Kyoto's groumet scene in depth. Come and enojoy Kyoto through the eyes of a local!
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Fuji S.
Hello I am Fuji. I am living in Kyoto city for more than 30years and a certified guide of Kyoto city. I have an appreciation for nature and culture, which leads me to explore the outdoors through hiking and occasionally visit temples and shrines to experience the history and traditions. Also, I truly enjoy meeting new people and learning from their stories. I look forward to sharing my love for nature, culture, and travel with visitors. Let’s explore the wonders of the Kyoto city together.
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Miranda R.
Hello, my name is Miranda. I have lived in Osaka for a couple of years. I also have previous tour guide experience. I am able to take you around Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara. I am also really flexible to any places that you might want to go or places that you want to go shopping. I also know a lot of great places to do food tours, as well. I have also no sign language to better suit some customers that may be deaf, mute, or even H.O.H. I look forward to seeing you and showing you around too many different places.
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Issei Y.
Hello everyone! My name is Issei, and I was born and raised in Japan. During my university years, I had the opportunity to study abroad in Canada, where I spent a year living in Vancouver. The experience of studying and living in such a multicultural city was truly eye-opening—it gave me a deep appreciation for different perspectives and the joy of connecting with people from all around the world. The kindness and hospitality I received in Canada inspired me to become a guide who can offer the same warmth to visitors in Japan. As your guide, my goal is not only to show you beautiful sights, but also to create authentic experiences where you can feel Japan—its traditions, its modern life, and its hidden gems. Through my tours, I strive to go beyond ordinary sightseeing. Whether it’s exploring vibrant city streets, tasting local flavors, or experiencing unique cultural traditions, I want to make your journey in Japan truly special and unforgettable. I look forward to welcoming you and sharing the heart of Japan together.
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Kyoto Tour Reviews
Dana B.
“Fumi was a fabulous guide for a day in Kyoto!”
Our family (2 parents and 3 teens) had a fabulous day with Fumi. She is engaging and knowledgeable and showed us around some of the sites of Kyoto. We learned a lot about the history and culture. She also took us to a wonderful local udon and soba restaurant that we couldn’t have found and navigated on our own. Thank you Fumi!
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Fumi U.
Thank you so much for writing a wonderful review. I'm very glad that you enjoyed the tour. I felt sorry for you that we waited for a long time to get seated in the Udon restaurant. Sometimes it happens as lunch time in Japan is limited (12pm-2pm). I look forward to see you again in Kyoto.
Dirk V.
“Proof That a Great Guide Changes Everything”
We had a fantastic experience with our personal tour guide, Akira. He was extremely informative without ever being overwhelming, and his enthusiasm made the entire day engaging and fun. What really stood out was how well he personalized the tour to our interests, adjusting the pace and focus to match what we cared about most rather than following a rigid script. Akira was easy to talk to, knowledgeable about both history and local culture, and happy to answer any questions along the way. The tour felt relaxed, personal, and thoughtfully put together. Highly recommended if you want a guide who truly tailors the experience to you rather than just checking boxes.
Aly T.
“Customized private tour kyoto”
Excellent experience with Akira. He is knowledgeable, tells a lot of interesting stories and gives great narration of the history related to the attractions. He’s also a thoughtful guide who looks out for specific needs of his travelers . Highly recommend !
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Akira F.
Thank you very much for your kind review. I truly enjoyed spending the last two days of 2025 in Kyoto with you and your family as well. We shared wonderful meals and experienced the rich culture and charm of this historic city together, which made the time especially memorable for me. I sincerely hope we will have the opportunity to meet again in the new year of 2026. Wishing you all the best, take care, and thank you once again.
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Local Tour Guides in Kyoto
Create charming memories in Kyoto with a private guide! Tailored itineraries, insider knowledge, and personalized attention ensure an unforgettable journey.
Take on Kyoto’s traditional treasures with private tours in neighborhoods like Gion and Pontocho for a glimpse into the city's rich heritage. With their narrow alleys, quaint machiya houses, and traditional tea hubs, these areas create a sense of old-world charm. A private tour guide can navigate the centuries old streets, pointing out hidden gems such as specialty shops, historic landmarks, and hidden temples that branch off the typical trails.
Looking for deeper cultural experiences? Tour the city where Japanese tea ceremonies, kimono, geisha and the art of Japanese hospitality (omotenashi) thrive. Your guide will give the best recommendations for where to go, what to do and how to maximize your travel moments.