Kyoto Private Tours & Local Tour Guides
Discover Things to Do and Plan a Trip to Kyoto, Japan with a Local Guide
Popular Kyoto Tour Guides
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.
Hiroyuki T.
Hi! I had been working for Wakayama Prefectural Government for 38 years, mainly in the field of cultural heritage management and international relations. I am a national certificated English guide and I have a lot of knowledge and experience in the field of cultural heritage management and international relations. I am very good at cultural heritages. And Koyasan and Kumano in Wakayama Prefecture are inscribed in the World Heritage List as parts of “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range". I was a project manager of "the Koyasan and Kumano World Heritage Inscription Project” at Wakayama Prefectural Government. I know inside and out of Koyasan, Kumano, Wakayama and other places in the Kansai area. I have a lot of experience of guiding as I was also in charge of international relations for a long time at the government. I will be able to provide interpretive guiding service for you around Koyasan, Wakayama, Osaka and other places in the Kansai area as I am a cultural heritage management and international relations professional. I am sure you will be able to get deeper understandings on Japanese culture and that your trip with me will be memorable one.
Takashi M.
Hi, my name is Takashi!! When I go abroad, I think that how nice it would be to have a friend there and hang out together. I want you to feel like you have a friend in Osaka and we can go around and explore. I was born and grew up in Japan. And I speak English, Spanish and Japanese. I can be the perfect guide for you!! I can guide you in any city in Japan, just let me know where you wanna go :)
Nori I.
I have lived in the US, UK, and India for approximately 20 years, and I’ve also traveled to about 30 countries. Living abroad for such a long time made me realize Japan’s value and sparked my interest in working as a translator/guide for foreigners. I’m truly passionate about introducing people to historical sites, authentic Japanese culture, and stunning natural spots that may not be widely known to people outside of Japan. There are countless places that I believe people would love. Originally from Nagoya, I cover areas around the city and the Kansai region including Kyoto, Shiga and Mie. I’m here to ensure your trip to Japan becomes an unforgettable memory. Looking forward to meeting you!
New Kyoto Tour Guides
Menshawi F.
Konnichiwa! I'm a passionate licensed tour guide and for me, being a tour guide isn't just a job. Its a way to share my love for Kyoto city and create meaningful connection with people from around the world. I enjoy helping travelers feel at home, discover new perspectives and leave with cherished memories. I look forward to welcoming you on a journey of discovery, whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to explore even deeper. Let's make your trip truly special together. If you're looking for an adventure off the beaten path or a deep dive into local tradition, my goal is to make every moment memorable.Let me guide you on a journey you'll cherish forever
Jodie C.
Hello everyone. My name is Jodie. It's very nice to meet you. I’m originally from St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada (near Niagara Falls), but I live and work in Kyoto, Japan. I’ve been in Japan (Kyoto) for about 23 years, and I teach English as a Second/Foreign Language (ESL/EFL) full-time at a couple of universities in Kyoto. I offer 2 types of tours: bicycle tours and scooter/motorbike – 125cc tours (solo guest only), and I love doing them because I love riding my bicycle and driving my scooter around this amazing city (Japan’s capital from 794-1868; sometimes called The 1000-Year Capital). I love exploring and discovering more about this amazing city, and I'd love to do this together with you. I'll take you down narrow alleys, riverside paths, show you some popular sights (and some hidden gems), and we'll learn and discover about Kyoto together as I am still learning about Kyoto (e.g., its shrines, temples, and history) myself. I will do my best to be of use to all of you. I know that getting long lists of names and dates from Japanese history can be hard to keep up with, and possibly boring, so I’m not a translator, but a guide who will discover Kyoto with you. I’ll introduce you to some modern culture in Kyoto (and Japan), and to daily life as well. I’m here to make your trip to Kyoto an unforgettable memory, and I look forward to meeting you and showing you around this AMAZING city. And remember: What’s the best way to see Kyoto? On 2 wheels!
Yosshi S.
Thank you for visiting my page. I will guide you to the ancient capital cities with 1000 years of urban development and 100 years of filming and screening history. I grew up in Osaka, studied in Kyoto, and worked for 20 years as an urban planning expert for the national and local governments. During this time, I surveyed many community development sites throughout Japan. I welcomed business leaders to encourage investment in the cities. After quitting my career, I became a film-loving professional engineer. I visited unique cities in foreign countries to see urban planning and locations that appeared in picturesque film scenes and posted photos on social media (90 cities in 30 countries up to now). The more I saw foreign cities, the more I loved my hometown. I wanted to know about the travel industry and got a national license as a Guide-Interpreter and Travel Service Manager. I have started guiding based in the old capital cities. The entire area of old Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara has been a Metropolitan area centered on the Imperial Palace, and the actual location of the Palace has changed 15 times since the 7th century. This area has many historical spots and hidden attractions in different times and places: the townscape, temples, shrines, landscaped gardens, and historical drama locations (SAMURAI drama). I will create your favorite tour using my list, and guide you leisurely. I look forward to hearing from you.
Mag C.
Hi everyone, with living in Kyoto about 1.5 years, I explored lots of places, temples, restaurants and unique Japanese activities which I am very eager to recommend the travellers to experience. I can also create tailor made itinerary from 0.5 day to 5 days to give you light touch or in depth taste of Kyoto and other cities around.
Popular Kyoto Private Tours
One day tour in Kyoto (Arashiyama area)
Tour will start from the Hotel in Kyoto. Frst visit is Kinkakuji temple (Golden Pavillion ),then, to Ryoanji tmple where is famous for rock garden. Tour will stop at Arasiyama area to take lunch and visit Togetsu bridge, Bamboo grove, Tentyuji temple and others. The last visit is NIjyo castle. As these places are normally crowded. using chartered taxi is highly recommended in order to effectively use your valuable time in Kyoto.
Zen temples with beautiful gardens, Fushimi Inari and Bamboo Forest
There are a lot of Buddhism temples and Shinto Shrines in Kyoto. This tour focuses on three UNESCO World Heritage temples with beautiful gardens, Fushimi Inari Shrine which is famous for a lot of red Torii gates and Bamboo Forest in Arashiyma to feel the profundity of Kyoto. If you are interested in the places which are not listed here, like Nijo Castle, Kyoto Imperial Palace, Gion, Nishiki Market, Sanjusangen-do, Kiyomizu-dera and others, just let me know, I will customize a tour for you.
Perfect Trip in Kyoto
Do you want to visit the most popular places in Kyoto in 1 day? If your answer is “YES”, this is the tour for you ;) We will visits the famous temples and shrines and enjoy the nature around and learn the history and legends behind them. Let’s explore the old capital of Japan Kyoto and learn more about Japan!!
Fully customizable your own private tour in Kyoto
There are so many great places in Kyoto that you probably want to visit but perhaps not enough time. Also, Kyoto is getting very crowded due to a lot of foreigners visiting there. It is best to have a local person guiding you to come up with a plan that suits your preference. I can create a tour with you which includes not only popular places like the Golden Pavilion and Fushimi Inari but small temples with Wabi Sabi such as those in Sagano and the oldest Japanese sweet shop in Murasakino.
New Kyoto Private Tours
El Tour Perfect en Kioto
¿Quieres visitar los lugares más populares de Kioto en 1 día? Si tu respuesta es “SÍ”, este es el tour para ti ;) Visitaremos los famosos templos y santuarios y disfrutaremos de la naturaleza que los rodea y aprenderemos sobre la historia y las leyendas que esta detrás de ellos. ¡Exploremos la antigua capital de Japón, Kioto, y aprendamos más sobre Japón!
Half-Day Hike to Enjoy Panoramic View in Kyoto
Walk from bottom to top and find the townscape from different angles. Kyoto has been the capital for 1000 years because of geographical advantages from the viewpoint of governance, defense, transport, and citizen’s lives: the center of Japan, 3 large rivers running, and mountains on 3 sides. Many temples and shrines were built on hillsides, creating attractive scenery each season. On this tour, we hike from the riverbank to the hillside while dropping in some historical spots on the road.
Kyoto Day-Tour in Fushimi & Uji
Fushimi & Uji are the south area of Kyoto City. You can enjoy Fushimi Inari Shrine, where has lots of vermilion shrine gates, Uji-no-Byodoin Temple, which is famous for its beautiful temple building. You can see the building on the back side of ten-yen Japanese coin. In addition, you can enjoy Japanese sake tasting in this tour!
Kyoto's Wonder A Full-day Tour: Iconic Shrine.Hidden Alleys And Riverside Dining
Join us on a captivating full-day walking tour Where you'll experience Kyoto's most famous highlights and charming hidden gems Visit the iconic sites like Yasaka Shrine, kiyomizu-dera and Gion and stroll through picturesque streets such as Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka.Explore the vibrant Nishiki market and finish with a Riverside dinner at pontocho.This Tour blends History, Culture, Stunning views and local flavors for an unforgettable Kyoto experience.
Popular Kyoto Private Cars
Kyoto Early Bird Highlights with Car Service
Join me on this tour as we explore four of Kyoto's must-see sights, starting early to beat the crowds. You'll enjoy the convenience of transportation between locations, with your knowledgeable guide driving you to each site. This allows you to save valuable time and energy for fully immersing yourself in the beauty and history of each location.
"Discover Kyoto's Hidden Treasures Ⅰ: Let’s explore the traditional culture untouched by tourism"
In this tour, I'll take you on a journey to experience the ancient culture deeply rooted in Kyoto, which only locals can truly appreciate, in my car. Kyoto is a basin surrounded by mountains over 900 meters high in three directions. For most of its 1200-year history, it has thrived on this flat basin. However, once you step into the mountains surrounding the area, you'll discover a world that can only be experienced with my tour.
Enjoy Kyoto in a convertible car (daytime)
Kyoto has a very large number of tourists. It's always hard to catch a taxi. Buses and trains are so crowded. Traveling with convertible car will be a comfortable and valuable experience! The itinerary is just an example, and destinations can be changed according to your needs. More than you think, English is not spoken in Japan. To enjoy a trouble-free trip, please contact me!
Kyoto 8-Hour 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.
Kyoto Tour Reviews
“2 Full Fun Filled Days in Kyoto”
We spent 2 full days with Kaori. She is great fun, very engaging and speaks good English. We thoroughly enjoyed our days with her, covering a lot of ground using taxis which we think is the best way to maximise your time as the underground system is not as widespread as in Osaka and Tokyo. This meant we were not rushing away from one place to get to the next and could enjoy a more leisurely lunch having great food and sake in the restaurants she chose for us. We also had time to take a detour in search of a particular gift for someone at home. Would highly recommend choosing Kaori to guide you in any of the areas she covers. You will have fun and learn a lot along the way.
Kaori K.
Hi Naren! Thank you very much for your gentle comment :) I’m glad you had great time in Kyoto! I had fun time with you, too! And your gift,,,,, scotch whisky! I’m saving for new year:)) Thank you very much for your considering :)) Kaori
Mt C.
Day trip from Toyama, to Shirakawago and Takayama
Customized
“Shirakawago and Takayama”
This is the 2nd time that we have engaged Tomoe-san as our guide. This time, she guided us in our 2 day trip to Shirakawago and Takayama. We were glad that we did Prior to the trip, she actually made a trip to Shirakawago and Takayama to find out more about the transportation, places of interest. The homework that she did allowed us to travel smoothly from point to point. This is especially important because transport in and out of Shirakawago is limited especially during peak period. During the 2 day trips, not only were we were able to visit the key places of interest at both Shirakawago and Takayama. More importantly, her presence allowed us to communicate freely with the locals at Shirakawago and Takayama. These conversations with the locals allowed us deeper insight into the culture and customs of the Japanese living in these 2 locations. Throughout the 2 day trips, Tomoe san was very patient with us even when we took longer than usual to take photos. She would paced us so that we would still be able to complete what we aimed to do. She also enjoyed photography and she was able to help us capture wonderful moments with her phone. Definitely the guide to engage when you visit Japan
Tomoe S.
Dear Chan san, Thank you so much for your wonderful review. I was really glad that you have remembered me since our first meeting, sent me a mail of inquiry again, and I was able to spend such a wonderful time with you in Shirakawago and Takayama. I will never forget such incredibly supreme days I spent with you. That's one of my best memories as a guide. Thank you very much for booking me as your guide again! I miss you so much. TOMOE
“Day tour in Kyoto”
We had a fantastic day with Toshiyo in Kyoto. Toshiyo showed us many historic sites and was very knowledgeable and friendly. She was also very patient with our big group of 9 people on public transport. We had a wonderful day!
Toshiyo O.
Thank you very much for having me as your guide and writing me the excellent review. I hope you will visit again to see cherry blossoms in spring. Please say hello to your beautiful family members and friends. Thank you. Toshiyo
Kyoto Private Tour Guide
Discover Kyoto's hidden gems with a private tour guide! Navigate the city's rich history, culture, and food like a local with a tour guide that knows the way.
Push beyond tour favorites like Kinkaku-ji and Fushimi Inari Taisha, and the crowds they attract, towards hidden gems waiting to be discovered with the help of a private tour guide. One such place is the Tofuku-ji Temple, known for its stunning autumn foliage and serene atmosphere. A private tour guide can provide insights into the temple's architecture, Zen gardens, and historical significance, allowing visitors to appreciate its beauty beyond the surface level.
With calmer crowds, you and your loved ones can create the kind of memories you want, with no interruptions. In Kyoto, your private guide will ensure you have the time, knowledge and space to savor moments of tranquility and reflection and soak in the spiritual ambiance of this lesser-known gem.
Kyoto Frequently Asked Questions
How many days in Kyoto is enough?
On average, 2-3 days in this historic city will introduce you to places like the Nishiki Market, Fushimi Inari Shrine, and the Arashiyama bamboo forests. If you've got a bit more time on your hands, exploring Kyoto can be stretched out into a 5-day tour experience with these highlighted destinations;
- Day 1: Kyoto's Must-See Sites (Golden Pavilion, Fushimi Inari Shrine & more)
- Day 2: Peaceful Arashiyama Bamboo Trail & Historical District
- Day 3: Kyoto Off The Beaten Path (Hidden Gem Sites Recommended By A Guide)
- Day 4: Kyoto’s Delicious Nishiki Market & Greater Food Culture
- Day 5: Monkeying Around-Kyoto’s Monkey Mountain Tours
Have more you'd like to see? Check out our Kyoto Private Tours
On average, 2-3 days in this historic city will introduce you to places like the Nishiki Market, Fushimi Inari Shrine, and the Arashiyama bamboo forests. If you've got a bit more time on your hands, exploring Kyoto can be stretched out into a 5-day tour experience with these highlighted destinations;
- Day 1: Kyoto's Must-See Sites (Golden Pavilion, Fushimi Inari Shrine & more)
- Day 2: Peaceful Arashiyama Bamboo Trail & Historical District
- Day 3: Kyoto Off The Beaten Path (Hidden Gem Sites Recommended By A Guide)
- Day 4: Kyoto’s Delicious Nishiki Market & Greater Food Culture
- Day 5: Monkeying Around-Kyoto’s Monkey Mountain Tours
Have more you'd like to see? Check out our Kyoto Private Tours
Which month is best for Kyoto?
March to May and October to November are the best times to visit Kyoto as the weather reaches that sweet spot of cool, slow winds and warm days. The calm weather, cherry blossoms, and festivals make these months popular for travelers, so expect larger crowds. For a different experience, try;
- December to February: Low tourist season, peaceful atmosphere, cheaper hotel and venue rates, snowy and cold weather.
- June to September: Blossoming flower gardens, vibrant festivals, and humid, slightly rainy, warm weather.
For more information on weather, festivals, and travel tips, check out our Japan Tourism Statistics 2023: The Ultimate Guide.
March to May and October to November are the best times to visit Kyoto as the weather reaches that sweet spot of cool, slow winds and warm days. The calm weather, cherry blossoms, and festivals make these months popular for travelers, so expect larger crowds. For a different experience, try;
- December to February: Low tourist season, peaceful atmosphere, cheaper hotel and venue rates, snowy and cold weather.
- June to September: Blossoming flower gardens, vibrant festivals, and humid, slightly rainy, warm weather.
For more information on weather, festivals, and travel tips, check out our Japan Tourism Statistics 2023: The Ultimate Guide.
Is Kyoto friendly to tourists?
Absolutely! Kyoto has achieved the perfect balance of remaining close to its historical roots as Japan's original capital, rich in culture and customs, while including modern conveniences and tourist-friendly services. It's one of Japan's most tour-conscious cities, next to Tokyo.
Absolutely! Kyoto has achieved the perfect balance of remaining close to its historical roots as Japan's original capital, rich in culture and customs, while including modern conveniences and tourist-friendly services. It's one of Japan's most tour-conscious cities, next to Tokyo.
Is it better to stay in Kyoto or Osaka?
That's a tough one! Kyoto has history, slow living, and breathtaking landscapes. Osaka has fantastic food and modern conveniences and is slightly more affordable.
Osaka is great for;
- Food lovers
- Those seeking a vibrant nightlife
- More affordable rates
Kyoto is ideal for;
- Lovers of Japanese history and tradition
- Anyone seeking calm nights and slow days
- Famous castles, shrines, and gardens.
The greatest thing about these two cities is that they're just a train ride away from one another. So whichever you decide, the other option is only 15 minutes away.
That's a tough one! Kyoto has history, slow living, and breathtaking landscapes. Osaka has fantastic food and modern conveniences and is slightly more affordable.
Osaka is great for;
- Food lovers
- Those seeking a vibrant nightlife
- More affordable rates
Kyoto is ideal for;
- Lovers of Japanese history and tradition
- Anyone seeking calm nights and slow days
- Famous castles, shrines, and gardens.
The greatest thing about these two cities is that they're just a train ride away from one another. So whichever you decide, the other option is only 15 minutes away.
Is Kyoto more beautiful than Tokyo?
Kyoto is often considered more beautiful than Tokyo because of the visually stunning architecture and Edo period buildings, especially those that highlight the nagare-zukuri style. It’s almost like a time machine. City lovers will consider Tokyo more beautiful thanks to its glowing billboards, high-end hotels, buzzing restaurants, and nightlife. Our recommendation? See both and decide for yourself. Tokyo and Kyoto are only 2 hours apart.
Kyoto is often considered more beautiful than Tokyo because of the visually stunning architecture and Edo period buildings, especially those that highlight the nagare-zukuri style. It’s almost like a time machine. City lovers will consider Tokyo more beautiful thanks to its glowing billboards, high-end hotels, buzzing restaurants, and nightlife. Our recommendation? See both and decide for yourself. Tokyo and Kyoto are only 2 hours apart.
Latest Kyoto Articles
Hiring A Guide In Kyoto: Pros & Cons
Kyoto, Japan
I know what you’re thinking. At least it’s what I think whenever I try to plan my itinerary during any trip. You want to do it all. If you’re trying to organize your Kyoto adventure, you might be wondering, “how can I attend the Miyako Odori Geisha Dance...
Tourism In Kyoto Statistics 2024: Your In Depth Travel Guide
Kyoto, Japan
It’s not just you. Planning a tour of Kyoto has gotten hectic over the past few years. The pandemic, tourism booms, and growing global interest keeps your screen flooded with content. Between having enough tabs open to overheat your device, and stressing ...
7 Amazing Day Trips From Kyoto
Kyoto, Japan
Ready to jump through time? Just travel to Kyoto, it's the next best thing. The perfect mix of Japanese tradition and modern creativity attracted 87.9 million domestic and international tourists in 2019 looking to navigate the prefecture’s iconic historic...
Kiyomizu Dera Temple: The Complete Guide in Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto, Japan
One of Kyoto’s most famous sightseeing spots is Kiyomizu Dera Temple. It was designated a World Heritage Site in 1994 and hundreds of people visit every year from within Japan and from abroad. Its most famous feature is the humongous wooden veranda that j...
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