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
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/94498/6e08cc77-b1d9-4455-b4b8-c5068072d0fd.png)
Robert K.
Hello from the enchanting Kyoto! My name is Robert, I studied Japanology at University and live in Kyoto. I offer professional tours in Nara and Kyoto. Let's visit the beautiful temples, Zen gardens and shrines together, combined with the culinary experiences that these cities have to offer. You will learn a lot about the history and culture of this beautiful country. It is very important to me that my guests experience a relaxing time without any hustle and bustle, that they can enjoy the beauty in peace, and that they find a moment of tranquillity far away from their hectic everyday lives. If I have piqued your interest, please feel free to contact me. We can discuss the tour itinerary together; I will tailor it entirely to your personal wishes. Thank you for taking the time to read my advertisement. I look forward to hearing from you. Best regards from Kyoto, Robert
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/46547/13e78146-dabf-401d-9a02-2237166e2b97.png)
Kanae O.
Hello! I am Kanae, a nationally licensed guide. While working full-time as a lecturer at a local university in Kyoto, I have also been guiding for two years. Born and raised in Kyoto, I am excited to share the beauty and culture of my hometown with my customers. Kyoto is an enchanting city, and even as a local, I am continually fascinated by its many charming spots. Whether it's the serene temples, vibrant markets, or hidden gems, there is always something new to explore and appreciate in this wonderful city. Also, since my home is close to Shiga Prefecture, I am very familiar with the area. While Shiga may not be as popular as Kyoto, it offers a wealth of attractions for tourists. From historical sites such as temples and shrines to the stunning natural beauty of Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan, there is much to see and do. I am passionate about promoting Shiga and sharing its unique charm with visitors.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/76348/51a3dc4f-8eb2-4ef0-8b6f-5ec46547f3bc.png)
Miyu S.
I'm Miyu. I'm from Osaka. I studied abroad US for 4 months. I'm working as a tour guide in Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara for 5years. If you are with kids, old people no problem. My youngest guest is 0 years old. My oldest guest is over 90years old. If you wanna change your plan during the tour. No problem! This is a private tour. I can change the destinations whenever you want. I like history, anime, and games. I like to see many people from all over the world.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/94000/e38d160b-175f-486f-b995-35b518756a89.png)
Ayumi S.
Academic Knowledge & Global Mindset – Your Local Expert for Culture and Sports! Hi everyone! I’m Ayumi, a local guide based in the Kansai area. I studied Tourism at University, where I explore the deeper historical and cultural backgrounds of Japan's most famous sites. Having traveled to many countries myself, I know exactly what makes a trip unforgettable, authentic local experiences and stress-free environment. Why book with me? Academic Insight: I don’t just show you the sights; I share the "why" behind them, from the architecture of Himeji Castle to the rituals of a tea ceremony. Active & Diverse: Whether you want to go hiking in Kobe, watch a professional rugby match, Baseball game, Soccer game, or find the best hidden yakitori spots, I’ve got you covered. Flexible & Friendly: I understand the needs of international travelers and will help you navigate Japan (including your JR Pass) with ease. Shopping & Sweets Expert: I am a huge fan of shopping! If you need recommendations for Japanese cosmetics or the best local snacks, just ask me. I especially have a "sweet tooth" for Apple Pie and Daifuku (mochi)—I’m always on the hunt for the best ones in town! Let’s go beyond the guidebooks and discover the real Japan together. I look forward to meeting you in Kyoto, Osaka, or Kobe!
New Kyoto Tour Guides
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/114695/c9429c32-1f77-401b-896f-78503b76966a.png)
Ikki H.
I am based in Osaka and offer fully personalised private walking & public‑transport tours around the Kansai region. I speak fluent English and know all the famous landmarks as well as local hidden spots, street‑food gems and quiet back‑streets off the standard tourist routes. Every itinerary is flexible and planned around your travel style and pace.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/114512/691a4a4d-893a-49d2-b6d0-4d7844089ca3.png)
Oisin B.
Hello! My name is Oisin and I am a Kansai based Tour Guide from Ireland who has been leading tours all over Kyoto, Osaka and Nara for the last 2 years. I aim to be professional, informative and entertaining while providing a peak behind the curtain to show the true wonder and uniqueness of Japan. I would love the chance to take you on an adventure you will be sure to remember so please get in touch.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/114412/df559e4a-261f-48e8-95d3-cda4c01e859f.png)
Dominic W.
Konnichiwa, I'm Dom - nice to meet you! Originally from Switzerland, I fulfilled my dream of moving to Japan and now live in Kyoto. In addition to my daily Aikido training, I work as a private tour guide, offering personalized experiences of the city. Whether you're interested in one of the tours listed on my website or prefer a custom tour based on your interests, I’m here to help make your visit to Kyoto unforgettable. How did I end up in the Land of the Rising Sun? My fascination with Japan began in childhood and has only deepened over the years. I immersed myself in studying the country's culture and history, exploring countless books, and, according to my friends, was probably a bit too enthusiastic about it! I always knew that visiting Japan was inevitable, and it became a reality after I started training in Aikido, a traditional Japanese martial art. This journey brought me to Kyoto, where I completed a two-year intensive program to become an Aikido instructor. Having achieved that goal, I am now teaching while continuing to grow as an instructor, with the long-term vision of one day opening my own dojo. If you’re visiting my website, it means you share an interest in exploring Kyoto’s rich culture and history, an enthusiasm we have in common! I fell in love with Kyoto, and my goal is to help you experience the city in a way that will leave you as captivated by it as I am.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/112887/b3722c8e-8621-4a5a-b475-21c27fced84c.png)
Shohei T.
Hi, I’m Shohei — a professional guitarist, singer, and private guide based in Kyoto! I was born in Japan but grew up in the city called Dublin, Ohio. My family moved there when I was 4yrs old because of my father’s was in the automotive industry. My passion for acoustic guitar led me to Boston, where I studied at Berklee College of Music. Since graduating in 2008, I’ve worked professionally as a musician, performing and teaching around the world and receiving several international awards in the acoustic fingerstyle guitar genre. In 2012, I fulfilled a long-held dream and moved back to Japan. I’ve called Kyoto home ever since. I started working as a guide in 2019, and I quickly discovered how much I enjoy sharing Japan with people from around the world. My passion for guiding was also inspired by the opportunity to accompany internationally renowned guitarists during their tours and workshops in Japan. I especially love exploring Kyoto’s temples and shrines and sharing the stories behind them. Rather than simply explaining what you see, I enjoy discussing how Buddhism, Shinto, and other traditions have shaped Japanese culture and everyday life. I also love Kyoto’s castles, palaces, gardens, traditional neighborhoods, and art. Having grown up in both Japan and the United States, I naturally have perspectives from both sides. I enjoy sharing cultural differences and helping guests understand not only what Japanese people do, but why. Most of all, I love meeting people, sharing stories, and discovering Kyoto together. Whether you want to explore famous landmarks, find hidden gems, dive deeper into Japanese history and culture, or simply enjoy a relaxed day in Kyoto, I’d be happy to show you around. If you don’t see a tour that fits your interests, feel free to message me. I’m always happy to create a private, custom experience for you! I look forward to meeting you and exploring Kyoto together!
Popular Kyoto Private Tours
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/22306/3b97d963-d6df-4621-aed2-dad0e000ac5c.jpg)
An unforgettable Experience in Enchanting Kyoto (German / English)
I want all my guests to be able to relax completely. It is very important to me that my guests find peace and quiet and can forget the stresses of everyday life. I avoid large crowds of people on my tours. If you have any specific requests and would like to combine this tour with other attractions, please do get in touch. I’d be happy to provide you with a quote, tailored specifically to your requirements, including a suggested price.
An unforgettable Experience in Enchanting Kyoto (German / English)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/94498/6e08cc77-b1d9-4455-b4b8-c5068072d0fd.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/13747/56657057-2b61-486b-912d-e99c61b1868f.jpg)
Kyoto Early Bird Trekking Ending with Ramen
Departing from Kyoto City Subway’s Keage Station, we will pass by Himukai Daijingu Shrine before making our way towards Mt. Daimonjiyama. As we ascend to the mountain's peak, you'll be greeted with panoramic views of Kyoto, stretching as far as Osaka. After descending towards Imadegawa Street, our journey will conclude at a charming local ramen restaurant.
Kyoto Early Bird Trekking Ending with Ramen
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/46547/13e78146-dabf-401d-9a02-2237166e2b97.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24051/e00323d8-f4c0-498a-9688-c625bca97f35.jpg)
Kyoto Like a Local: 6-Hour Custom Tour & Food Night
Want to experience the best of Kyoto from day to night? Starting at 3:00 PM , this 6-hour tour is 100% customizable! We’ll spend the afternoon exploring breathtaking shrines and temples during the most beautiful golden hours. As the sun sets, we’ll dive into a hidden world of Kyoto’s nightlife—hopping through cozy, local izakayas that most tourists never find. Tell me your dream spots, and let's create an unforgettable evening!
Kyoto Like a Local: 6-Hour Custom Tour & Food Night
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/76348/51a3dc4f-8eb2-4ef0-8b6f-5ec46547f3bc.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24128/3f50effa-a00e-41b6-ac5c-40e8762d444c.jpg)
Kyoto Highlights in 1 Day: Fushimi Inari, Kinkaku-ji & Arashiyama
See Kyoto’s top three icons in one efficient 8-hour day! This tour covers Fushimi Inari, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and Arashiyama, saving you time and hassle with a smart, seamless route.
Kyoto Highlights in 1 Day: Fushimi Inari, Kinkaku-ji & Arashiyama
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/94000/e38d160b-175f-486f-b995-35b518756a89.png)
New Kyoto Private Tours
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/25788/757f4c47-c731-4419-b5e2-151e38fccd12.jpg)
Discover Kyoto in a Day: Temples, Castle & Gion
Spend a full day discovering Kyoto’s history, culture, and timeless streets. We’ll visit the iconic Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) and historic Nijo Castle in the morning, with time for lunch along the way. In the afternoon, we’ll explore Gion and Higashiyama on foot, wandering through traditional streets and visiting historic temples and landmarks. Along the way, I’ll share stories about Kyoto’s history, traditions, and everyday life, helping you experience the city beyond the usual sightseeing.
Discover Kyoto in a Day: Temples, Castle & Gion
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/112887/b3722c8e-8621-4a5a-b475-21c27fced84c.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/25786/267f4c70-3ba4-4bf8-815e-313d598107e9.jpeg)
Kyoto Downtown Walk Main Sights
This tour covers main sights of Kyoto’s downtown. Starting at Nishiki Market, continuing through Gion and Yasaka Shrine, stopping at Pontocho and finishing at Kiyomizu Temple.
Kyoto Downtown Walk Main Sights
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/101057/77d96427-439e-413f-aebd-d78ec30682dd.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/25694/f78b32d3-437c-4238-a551-3e9e98ee670f.jpg)
Hidden Kyoto Day Tour: Fushimi Inari, Private Zen Temple & Gion
Discover Kyoto beyond the crowds on a private day tour combining iconic sights, hidden paths and exclusive access. Leave the main route at Fushimi Inari to explore a quieter path through bamboo forests and small shrines. Wander through historic Gion and Higashiyama before stepping inside a private Zen temple normally closed to the public. An optional tea ceremony can also be added. Book your tour and experience a side of Kyoto most visitors never get to see.
Hidden Kyoto Day Tour: Fushimi Inari, Private Zen Temple & Gion
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/114412/df559e4a-261f-48e8-95d3-cda4c01e859f.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/25645/67a3b29b-0538-423b-a477-da31273b51f3.jpg)
The Highlights of Southeast Kyoto
Let's face it, you've come all the way down to Kyoto and despite all the things you hear about how crowded or overrated it is,,, you would STILL want to see those major HIGHLIGHTS! so let's start here from the southeast area of Kyoto and check out the famous Torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine and the grand wooden terrace of Kiyomizu Temple, one of our many UNESCO heritage site!! (and a really cool 1001 buddha statue hall in between)
The Highlights of Southeast Kyoto
Popular Kyoto Private Cars
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/13828/7a1ef474-b1fa-42e6-aecd-da6f235f15b3.jpg)
Kyoto Early Bird Highlights with Car Service
Join me on this early morning tour to discover five of Kyoto's must-see sights before the crowds arrive. Travel comfortably by car as your knowledgeable guide drives you between each destination, allowing you to save time and energy while making the most of your visit. It's also an ideal way to explore Kyoto during the hot summer months, with less walking between attractions and more time to enjoy the city's beauty and history.
Kyoto Early Bird Highlights with Car Service
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/20392/a70b599c-4321-4402-b026-e15cecb21172.jpeg)
Private Kyoto Customizable Day Trip With A Local
Discover the wonders of Kyoto in a day, without having to do any research, thanks to this hassle-free private tour. To help you feel like a VIP, the route is customized to suit your interests and preferences—something you wouldn’t get on a bus tour. Potential stops on the tour include some of Kyoto's most well-known attractions such as Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, Kinkaku-ji, and Arashiyama bamboo groves.Slow down and discover Kyoto at a leisurely pace with a Luxury car tour.
Private Kyoto Customizable Day Trip With A Local
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/80466/d66e7dc5-1de8-450c-af34-0b31639b7a1e.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/19106/86865c1b-7bc3-4c96-8f3f-4e2b93b29816.jpg)
Kyoto Spiritual Tour!
Visit 3 special places in Kyoto and feel the spiritual energy. This tour is only on weekdays, It’s good to enjoy Kyoto slowly and peacefully. Each place has beautiful nature. The air is very clear and fresh. Your mind can feel calm and clean again. This is for people who want to take care of work, family, and themselves.
Kyoto Spiritual Tour!
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/72153/7c78f303-389e-4be9-8e64-a411ce4fcf16.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/21913/ab4bd348-f60e-4926-82d2-7dacbcdbdfdc.jpeg)
Kyoto: one day private car driving tour
My hometown Kyoto has many historical and beautiful places to visit including 17 world heritage sites. It’s very difficult to cover by public transportation but I can drive you around to save energy and time. I will show you around efficient ly.
Kyoto: one day private car driving tour
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/200/3111.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/cities/2099/83450.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/cities/2094/83452.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/cities/4363/83462.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/cities/2079/83458.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/cities/2102/83473.jpg)
Kyoto Tour Reviews
Mirjam S.
“Ein besonderer Tag in Kyoto mit Yuta”
Kyoto hat mich von Anfang an fasziniert – mit seinen wunderschönen Tempeln, den kleinen Gassen und der besonderen Atmosphäre, die überall zu spüren ist. Dank Yuta durfte ich die Stadt noch einmal von einer ganz anderen Seite kennenlernen. Er hat mir nicht nur besondere Orte gezeigt, sondern auch viel über die japanische Kultur, die Traditionen und das Leben in Kyoto erzählt. Gerade die kleinen Geschichten und persönlichen Einblicke haben diesen Tag für mich so besonders gemacht. Es war schön, Kyoto nicht einfach nur als Tourist zu erleben, sondern auch ein Stück weit zu verstehen, was diese Stadt und ihre Kultur so einzigartig macht. Danke, Yuta, für die tollen Gespräche, die vielen neuen Eindrücke und einen Tag, an den ich mich noch lange erinnern werde.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/111788/6f47806e-78ed-4001-9951-37f84e6956aa.png)
Rebecca D.
“Amazing personal experience ”
Michiko was an absolute gem and quite possibly one of my favorite parts of my trip. She takes excellent care of her guests and provides both so much knowledge about the places you go as well as sharing her personal stories about being Japanese. She prepares excellent itineraries and custom binders with concise summaries of stories and history behind the experiences and places. As a one on one guide, she was also very flexible with timing and easily able to accommodate my specific situations. Being late because I lost phone connection did not hamper my tour. She took wonderful pictures of me. She's a great photographer!
Cindy P.
“Kyoto one to remember ”
What an amazing day exploring Kyoto with the wonderful Miki! Miki was incredibly knowledgeable about Kyoto’s rich history and culture, and what made the experience even more special was how she incorporated references to anime and movies our boys would recognise. It was such a clever and engaging way to bring the history to life for the whole family! She was great fun, incredibly personable and made our day exploring Kyoto truly memorable. We enjoyed some delicious Wagyu beef for lunch before being lucky enough to witness a beautiful maiko (apprentice geisha) in the Gion district. Miki explained that this was an incredibly rare experience, and we were fortunate to be given permission to film because the media were present. Watching the maiko was absolutely captivating — she was so elegant, graceful and beautiful. It was a very special moment that we will always remember. Thank you, Miki, for sharing your knowledge, laughter and love of Kyoto with our family. You made us feel so welcome and gave us an experience that went well beyond a typical sightseeing tour. We would highly recommend Miki to anyone wanting an authentic, fun and memorable experience in Kyoto. And Miki, if you ever make it to Australia, please come and visit us! Thank you for welcoming our family to your beautiful city!
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?
Which month is best for Kyoto?
Is Kyoto friendly to tourists?
Is it better to stay in Kyoto or Osaka?
Is Kyoto more beautiful than Tokyo?
Latest Kyoto Articles
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/posts/5695/a121a2c1-6712-461f-b88c-4b9df0ad9993.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/34796/3ae4143f-55d6-4de2-a3bf-416544e000f9.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/posts/5690/6009091e-3e35-4b93-b142-320d8964cb4d.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/posts/5491/693ce5c0-b207-4041-8f7e-68ece74c4b81.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/posts/3943/78512.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/23352/86c3c027-9206-4bd3-a593-f7f02fb98c39.png)
All Tours Customizable
Start By Messaging Your Guide
100% Private Tours
Just You and Your Local Tour Guide
Quality Assured Guides
Screened and Verified via Interviews
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/gowithguide/assets/collections/unity_guides.jpg)
Connect with a Tour Guide in Kyoto
Chat with the best tour guides in Kyoto. Get a free itinerary and plan your private tour today.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/cities/2088/83504.jpg)
Book a Customizable Kyoto Private Tour
Browse Kyoto tour itineraries by our local professionals and book your favorite Kyoto tour.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/gowithguide/assets/collections/cars.png)
Book a Kyoto Private Car Tour
Tour Kyoto by car or van, or hire a private guide / driver. See reviews and all car tour details.
/fit-in/gowithguide/assets/collections/airport-transfer.avif){kind=spacer}