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/18540/70132.jpeg)
Tohru S.
Welcome to Kyoto! My name's Tohru. Please call me Toh-ru or Toh-ru-san. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter. I was born and grew up in Kyoto, so I'm very familiar with many sightseeing spots and attractions in Kyoto. If you would like to enjoy walking around Kyoto in YUKATA or KIMONO, I'll be happy to prepare it for you in advance. Kyoto is a fascinating and picturesque city visited by lots of foreign tourists every year. I can offer you unique experiences in this beautiful city, which can include visits to traditional Japanese gardens, ancient temples and shrines designated as world heritage sites, authentic Japanese cultural experiences such as exploring the traditional townhouse called MACHIYA, the food market called NISHIKI, shopping arcades and fantastic museums. With a flexible approach, I can help you personalize your agenda. When you have a chance to visit Kyoto, please contact me anytime and anywhere! I'll be looking forward to seeing you and spending wonderful time with you. See you soon! Certified as - National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter - Itinerary Control Manager - Kyoto Expert Certification 2nd grade
/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/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/1335/16835.jpg)
北澤
大家好! 我姓北澤,現住在大阪。我從'80年代開始到2000年代作為國際貿易公司的常駐代表先後在中國大陸的大連，北京，上海與深圳常駐了共7次,時間共達18年,走遍了中國的60個城市與地區。每次均承蒙中國朋友們的格外關照，對此表示衷心的感謝! 關於台灣,也因公出差了20次左右,訪問了台北，基隆,高雄與台中，亦受到了熱情接待,表示衷心的感謝! 至於香港,有過因公出差或私人旅遊，訪問了十多次，也成為很好的回憶。 現在，我作為日本政府國土交通省(交通部)觀光廳(旅遊局)批准的口譯導遊開始工作,已經為中國大陸，台灣以及其他國家‧地區的華人提供了優質的導遊服務。 希望繼續為中國，台灣,香港,新加坡以及其他國家‧地區的華人遊客們介紹美麗的日本風光,日本美食以及日本文化等。希望各位隨時垂詢。我將竭盡全力為大家提供優質服務, 謝謝大家!
New Kyoto Tour Guides
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/117551/af0d3412-dedf-4309-a89d-6c59c684524a.png)
Toshi T.
Hello! I’m Toshi, your local insider and itinerary planner in Kansai. I’m new to GoWithGuide, but I’ve spent over 35 years helping people enjoy life’s most meaningful moments in beautiful places. For decades, I was a destination wedding photographer in San Francisco. My clients came for the photos, but they remembered the whole experience: carefully planned journeys around historic City Hall and the city’s hidden viewpoints, with every detail handled so they could relax. From 2016 to 2018, I led the Canon KelbyOne Worldwide Photowalk, guiding groups of up to 20 along scenic San Francisco routes to support the Spring of Hope Kenya Children’s Home. Today, I bring that same warm hospitality, careful planning, and eye for beauty to Osaka, Kyoto, and all of Kansai. Why travel with me? A local’s eye for the special: I’ll take you beyond the landmarks to quiet side streets, the best viewpoints, and the everyday Japanese life most visitors walk past. Smooth, stress-free days: After decades of managing tight schedules for international clients, I’ll handle the trains, the timing, and the details so your day feels relaxed. Tailored to you: Family, couple, or solo, we’ll build the day around your interests and pace, whether that’s history, food, temples, or hidden neighborhoods. A photographer’s instincts: I won’t run a photography lesson, but I always know where the light is best. I’m happy to point out a great spot or take your picture along the way. Early start for photographers: Every tour offers an optional early start for the best morning light at the first stop, potentially before most visitors arrive: Fushimi Inari’s torii gates, Arashiyama’s bamboo grove, or Osaka Castle’s grounds before the tower opens at 9:00. I can’t guarantee empty sites, especially in peak seasons and on weekends and holidays. Let’s skip the crowded, cookie-cutter routes and plan a day in Kansai that shows you Japan’s true soul. Send me a message, and let’s start planning!
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/115643/da2d0919-565e-42cc-838f-10697678ce4e.png)
Seth S.
Howdy everyone! My name is Seth. I’m an American from North Carolina, and I’ve been living in Japan for several years now. After studying in Osaka and working at a town hall in Miyazaki for three years, I’m now writing the next chapter of my story with a luxury travel company here in Kyoto. I’m a practitioner of karate, kendo, and jujitsu, a composer of Japanese haiku, and a researcher of Japanese Buddhism. Those are some of my specialties, but I’m forever a student who loves learning about all things Japan. I hope to help you paint a unique picture of Japan on your canvas, and I’m excited to join you on your journey and help you fall in love with this country just as I did.
/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.
Popular Kyoto Private Tours
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/4077/70727.jpg)
Let's enjoy your Half-day Kyoto Tour!
Half-day Kyoto Tour would be personalized according to your interests and preferences. If you don't like the busy sightseeing spots, I'm happy to suggest the suitable itinerary for you on your requests. Let's enjoy your own tour to experience a wider variety of cultures in Kyoto! The meeting time would be flexible based on your schedule, for example, 8:00 AM or 9:00 AM (or 1:00 PM) would be available. === I would appreciate it if you could visit my page on Facebook by my name "Tohru Shimagaki".
Let's enjoy your Half-day Kyoto Tour!
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/18540/70132.jpeg)
/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/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/709/17194.jpg)
京都一日精彩遊 ~ 伏見稻荷,東山地區，祇園
訪問代表日本古都之一，“京都"的代表性的景點。在這裡可以親身體驗日本的傳統文化。 京都是被美國Travel+Leisure公司被認定為在世界人氣觀光城市排行榜中2014年與2015年 連續兩年獲得了第一名的國際觀光城市。 "伏見稻荷（神社）"是被美國Trip Advisor（世界權威性的旅遊雜誌）認定為2014,2015年 連續兩年在日本的景點排行榜中外國遊客最多的景點。 "清水寺"是代表京都,甚至代表日本的寺廟。"清水寺舞台"是表達人們的“覺悟"的地方。 "清水坡道",沿途的房屋多建於江戶時代(17~19世紀）,被列為國家級傳統建築保存區,當中 既有民居,也有很多商店。這些商店賣的多是一些極具京都特色的雜貨,特產,工藝品等,還有 不少賣小吃如雪糕,燒餅,綠茶與陶瓷器（"清水燒"）。 在"祇園"地區,如果碰運氣,可以看見"舞妓"（她們白天練歌舞,看不到）。
京都一日精彩遊 ~ 伏見稻荷,東山地區，祇園
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/1335/16835.jpg)
New Kyoto Private Tours
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/26227/718eae30-67f7-4f9a-a73b-5503b4befbfa.jpg)
Why I Chose Japan
Ever wondered what makes someone fall for Japan and never leave? Spend a day with me seeing Japan the way I see it, in the less-explored corners of Kyoto. Geek out at a museum of 3,000 anime figures, dig through a retro game shop, enjoy a lunch of real Japanese home cooking, sip tea at a quiet Zen temple, and climb to a hilltop shrine for sweeping city views. Then soak in a 100-year-old bathhouse and toast the day with locals. This is the Kyoto I chose, and I’d love to share it with you!
Why I Chose Japan
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/115643/da2d0919-565e-42cc-838f-10697678ce4e.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/26223/4738bda1-d334-4393-a246-d4bcadca59ce.jpeg)
Geisha District & Zen Temples : A Cultural Walking Experience
Discover Kyoto’s beauty on a walk through historic temples, traditional gardens, and Gion’s charming streets. Visit Kennin-ji, Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple, and learn about Japanese aesthetics and architecture. Explore Gion’s teahouses and hidden alleys, cross the picturesque Tatsumi Bridge, and stroll along streets lined with willow and cherry trees. Finally, cross the Kamo River into downtown Kyoto, where I can recommend local restaurants to suit your taste.
Geisha District & Zen Temples : A Cultural Walking Experience
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/105689/e0a2abaf-e32e-4434-9247-c05cdf566410.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/26209/d096b97b-8ab4-47a5-b0da-2f6b2128e77e.jpg)
Bamboo, Boats & Bathhouses: An Arashiyama Day Out
Bamboo, river, history, and traditional food across Kyoto’s west side with someone who has made exploring Japan their life’s work. Beat the crowds to the bamboo grove, then rest on a river boat while learning the area’s history. Enjoy lunch by a stream at a 400-year-old teahouse, explore historic Saga-Toriimoto and Otagi Nenbutsu-ji’s whimsical stone statues, and browse local shops for omiyage. Then soak away the miles at a tattoo-friendly sento, or toast the day with local craft mocktails.
Bamboo, Boats & Bathhouses: An Arashiyama Day Out
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/26174/280a0c77-0acf-4129-81af-dea364bfc1b6.jpeg)
From Golden Pavilion to Arashiyama: Kyoto’s Zen Temples & Bamboo Grove
Begin at Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion), admiring its golden reflection and learning about Zen Buddhism. Continue to Arashiyama to enjoy the scenic Togetsukyo Bridge, local treats, and Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its beautiful Zen garden. End with a peaceful walk through the iconic Bamboo Grove, experiencing Kyoto’s history, culture, and natural beauty.
From Golden Pavilion to Arashiyama: Kyoto’s Zen Temples & Bamboo Grove
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
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/109744/60d72599-52e0-4845-a455-5f33c20fe004.png)
Catherine C.
“Wonderful Memories”
We had two wonderful days spent with our guide Toshiyo san. She is amazing and very knowledgeable. We will always treasure our time with her. We wholeheartedly recommend her to you as a guide.
Catherine C.
“Great Day ”
We spent two days in Kyoto thoroughly enjoying tours guided by Toshiyo san. First day was combined walking and public transportation and second day was private car with Toshiyo san. Toshiyo san is a tour guide with excellent knowledge and a very pleasant personality. She provided us with a tour plan in advance but allowed us to make adjustments based on our interests as well as the current conditions in Kyoto. This turned out to be greatly beneficial to us since we decided to make dynamic itinerary adjustments based on weather conditions and size of tourist crowds. We ended up making important adjustments due to a typhoon that was approaching. This allowed us to have a wonderful time while allowing us to not have any interruptions that would have affected our return Shinkansen trip to Tokyo. She helped us rearrange our Kimono rental appointment and photo shoot which we were so thankful for since without her recommendations we would have had to cancel due to bad weather. We ended up having amazing photos. Toshiyo san also steered us towards less crowded experiences in areas filled with tourists. We had a wonderful time enjoying a beautiful garden in the mountains without any crowds. On one day she used her car to bring us to sites that would have been difficult to get to with public transportation. Further, Toshiyo san is a wonderful person. We connected on many common interests and we thoroughly enjoyed our conversations with her on both tour as well as non-tour topics. By the end of our time together, she was our close friend and we will always have fond memories of our experience with her. We hope to visit with her on a future trip to Japan. We wholeheartedly recommend her to you as a guide.
Catherine C.
“Great Day ”
We spent two days in Kyoto thoroughly enjoying tours guided by Toshiyo san. First day was combined walking and public transportation and second day was private car with Toshiyo san. Toshiyo san is a tour guide with excellent knowledge and a very pleasant personality. She provided us with a tour plan in advance but allowed us to make adjustments based on our interests as well as the current conditions in Kyoto. This turned out to be greatly beneficial to us since we decided to make dynamic itinerary adjustments based on weather conditions and size of tourist crowds. We ended up making important adjustments due to a typhoon that was approaching. This allowed us to have a wonderful time while allowing us to not have any interruptions that would have affected our return Shinkansen trip to Tokyo. She helped us rearrange our Kimono rental appointment and photo shoot which we were so thankful for since without her recommendations we would have had to cancel due to bad weather. We ended up having amazing photos. Toshiyo san also steered us towards less crowded experiences in areas filled with tourists. We had a wonderful time enjoying a beautiful garden in the mountains without any crowds. On one day she used her car to bring us to sites that would have been difficult to get to with public transportation. Further, Toshiyo san is a wonderful person. We connected on many common interests and we thoroughly enjoyed our conversations with her on both tour as well as non-tour topics. By the end of our time together, she was our close friend and we will always have fond memories of our experience with her. We hope to visit with her on a future trip to Japan. We wholeheartedly recommend her to you as a guide.
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}