Kyoto Private Tour Guides

“Highly Recommended Japanese Guide”

Lisa Watanabe is the best Japanese guide I have ever met--and one on the best guides I have ever encountered anywhere in the world. And I routinely travel with guides all over the world. Lisa has traveled and worked internationally, so she is familiar with many different travelers' cultures and needs. Having been born and university-educated in Japan, Lisa is extraordinarily knowledgeable about all aspects of Japanese history and culture and genuinely enjoys sharing Japan with her clients--as well as seeking to understand her clients' own cultures. Lisa is extraordinarily kind, patient, and flexible and takes pride in fulfilling her clients' special requests. She takes a genuine and sincere interest in her clients' personal experiences and interests, and is a wonderful conversationalist and a very calming presence. If you are looking for that very special Japanese guide who will work with you to create your own personal dream trip in Japan, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND Lisa Watanabe. She has certainly arranged and guided my ideal 3-day tour of Kyoto, Japan's beautiful traditional cultural capital.

“Kyoto 8-hour Tour - May 2025”

We had a wonderful 8-hour tour of Kyoto with Fumi as our guide. She was warm, chatty, and fun to talk to. Her unique background and free-spirited personality added something special to the experience. Our group of five adults, including two seniors and a couple with dietary restrictions, felt well taken care of throughout the day. Fumi was flexible, attentive, and made sure everyone was comfortable and engaged. One of our members wished to buy authentic wasabi, and Fumi went out of her way to help us find it, which we really appreciated. Highly recommended for anyone wanting a personalized Kyoto experience.

Fumi U.

(2 reviews)

Thank you so much for your review. I am glad that you enjoyed the tour. It was perfect weather to explore the sites. I hope you come back again to Kyoto.

“Great time with Kaz! ”

Taking a tour with Kaz was so informative and fun. She gave us details that we wouldn’t have found out about had we gone on our own. She helped us to decipher our Omikuji, which we got lucky! And she took us to places to eat the local food and learn more about Japanese culture. It was such a pleasure hanging out with Kaz that I hope one day we will meet again. Thank you, Kaz, for making our time so special in Kyoto!