Ambalangodage J.
“Exploring Kyoto With Michiko”
Here’s a polished version of your review for Michika: --- We had an amazing experience with our tour guide, Michiko She was very friendly, flexible, and customized our trip perfectly to suit our interests. Michiko explained everything clearly and gave us the wonderful opportunity to taste authentic Japanese food, which made our journey even more special. We highly recommend her to anyone visiting Japan. Thank you so much, Michiiko
Alberto R.
“Osaka with Shuji”
Shuji is an excellent guide. My only recommendation is that when doing a tour in Osaka, you should understand the city and where you want to go; otherwise, you may end up short after completing the tour. There are too many places to go, and driving from one site to another takes time.
Shuji O.
Thank you very much for your review! We were actually in Kyoto, not Osaka. It was a very hot day. Thank you for being cooperative in such hot weather. I hope you enjoyed Japan a lot.
Peter G.
“Visit to Kyoto September 2025”
I highly recommend Shuji as a guide. He was very well organized with excellent communication in the lead up to our trip. He prepared the perfect itinerary for 4 adults and 2 teenagers across two half days. He was also flexible and we changed our start times (to early morning) to accommodate for the hot weather. Overall a great experience. Thank you Shuji.
Shuji O.
Thank you for the kind words. Even in the terribly hot weather, we could still had fun on our tours. I owe this to your wonderful understandings and supports. Yes, everything, including the breakfast at the cafe, was very nice. I was really happy with you all. Please enjoy Hakone! Thank you very much.
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.
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;
Have more you'd like to see? Check out our Kyoto Private Tours
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;
For more information on weather, festivals, and travel tips, check out our Japan Tourism Statistics 2023: The Ultimate Guide.
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.
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;
Kyoto is ideal for;
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.
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.
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