Kyoto Private Tours

“Putting the "Personal" Touch in the Tour”

This was our first time in Kyoto and rather than walking cluelessly from one site or one shrine to another, we decided to get a tour guide to learn the history and meaning behind the places we visited. We could not have asked for a better tour guide than Yoshie, who made our tour one of the most memorable days of our trip. Not only was he incredibly informative about each place we visited, but he also weaved in entertaining stories and little historical tidbits that one would not find in a tour book. Yoshie also knows the best places and angles to take photos and would miraculously have us pose in pictures where no other tourists were in our photo (many of which ended up in our holiday card this year!). We ended the day at an Izakaya of his choosing and were treated to warm welcomes, cozy local vibes, and delicious food. It was also my husband's birthday, and the restaurant owner surprised him with a cake, and the whole place ended up singing happy birthday to him. We were very moved by the generous spirit and my husband was grinning ear to ear. If you want a personal touch, someone with deep knowledge and the gentle manner to share it with you, and a more profound grasp of the history of Japan in that region, Yoshie is your person! We have already recommended him to our friends who are going to Kyoto next year!

Yoshihisa T.

(273 reviews)

Hi Amy. I really appreciate your marvelous comment on my tour in Kyoto. I am delighted to learn that you had such a great time in every aspect of the tour, from my silly jokes, photo-taking spots to the food and warm atmosphere of the izakaya. I am looking forward to your next visit to Kansai area someday again. With warm wishes. Yoshie

“A day filled with sights and knowledge”

It was a wonderful day with many impressions and obtaining knowledge about the history of Japan in general and Kyoto in particular. Fumi had so many stories to share and a lot of patience in answering my many questions. From a glimpse on the golden walls of Rokuon-ji Kinkaku (rainbow included) to the bustling streets in front of Kyomizu-dera and so much more. It will take a while to reflect on all I saw today. Thanks again Fumi for the great tour.

Fumi U.

(31 reviews)

Thank you very much for your thoughtful review. I am glad that you enjoyed the tour. I had a great day with you too. It was a quite cold day but the weather improved gradually. Thank you for your all interest about Japan. Hope you undertsood more about Japan. Enjoy your rest of trip and see you again in Kyoto.

“Mana is so great we booked her twice ”

Mana is a wonderful guide. She managed to cover everything on our wish list plus added in things we didn’t know we wanted to see but enjoyed greatly. She is hardworking, thoughtful and so capable. We highly recommend her!

Mana F.

(115 reviews)

Dear Janet Thank you so much for sending me not just one, but two five-star reviews! I’m especially happy because they help raise my average score (haha). Since you complimented on the illustrations I drew for my tours, I actually started attending a manga art class in Osaka to improve my skills—and I even started working on some new pieces. As for storytelling, I practice ” Rakugo,” because I truly love the saying “Laughter brings good fortune.” I hope that next year will be filled with smiles and happiness all around you! Mana