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
Michiko N.
Hello, and thank you for visiting my page among so many wonderful guides! My name is Michiko. I was born and raised in Kyoto, and I still live here. In my twenties, I lived for a short time in the UK, and recently I spent a year in Thailand. I love traveling to different countries, and I enjoy talking with people from all over the world. When we are in a country that is not our own, I believe it is important to show respect. I always try to respect your culture, and I hope to share the spirit of Japanese hospitality with you too. Kyoto is a beautiful and special place. It has a long history, many unique small shops, and charming hidden paths. In summer, it gets very hot, so I can guide you by car for comfort. But if you like walking, I’m happy to do that too. I can also take you to some delicious local food spots! Besides guiding, I work in the theater and performance art. I love telling stories and sharing emotions. I’m looking forward to showing you not only the famous places, but also the heart of Kyoto—its quiet beauty, kind people, and unforgettable stories. …Besides guiding, I work in the theater and performance art. I love telling stories and sharing emotions. Right now, I’m working on a new artistic project: I create theater-style performances inside shop windows. My dream is to show my work outside Japan someday. I’m still learning and growing as an artist, so if you’re interested, I’d love to talk with you about Japanese performing arts, like Kabuki! I really look forward to the day I can guide you around Kyoto. Let’s discover beautiful moments together! with BIG LOVE!
Tatsuhiro N.
It took me some 20 years to be qualified for this job and I feel honored for being able to help tourists from abroad understand our nation and culture. Japan is a beautiful country with a long history, tradition and rich cultural heritages, having various features in each of the four distinct seasons. Although there are now many visitors from abroad, mainly from Asian countries, they are mostly interested in shopping taking advantage of cheaper yen rather than understanding our people and culture. Kyoto and Nara are the two cities best known by foreign tourists, but not all the aspects of Japanese culture are concentrated there. If you visit the countryside other than these two cities, you will never fail to see the beautiful natural surroundings and people who will warmly welcome you. I wish to work as the bridge between Japanese people and tourists from all over the world.
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.
Eric T.
Hallow ! This is Eric Tanaka. I was born in Kyoto, and I have been living in Kyoto. I am sure that Kyoto is one of the best city for sightseeing and living. I wish if I can introduce some nice places for you by walking around city streets. Also, in suburbs, there are a lot of nice sightseeing places such as Bamboo forest, Monkey park, Fushimi shrine, Zen practice temples and so on. Let's enjoy Kyoto town and Kyoto food.with me.
New Kyoto Tour Guides
Katia S.
Hello, bonjour, привет ! I’m a multilingual guide based, offering cultural and historical tours across Osaka, Kyoto and Nara — with a special focus on Shinto shrines, Buddhist temple and Japan history. Kansai is a beautiful area which provide everything you want to see in Japan! Electric, gourmet and vintage with Osaka, traditional and rich of Japanese crafts and temples with Kyoto, and turn to country side and beautiful nature and history in Nara. One of my favorite spots to guide is Sumiyoshi Taisha, one of Japan’s oldest and most iconic Shinto shrines. Through these tours, I share stories, traditions, and perspectives that bring Japanese history and mythology to life. My journey to Japan — all the way from Europe via the Transiberian Railway — reflects my deep love for cultural exchange and meaningful travel. If you’re looking for a laid-back, authentic way to experience Japan with a passionate local — I’m your guide. Book a tour and let’s make it an unforgettable day!
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 4years. 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.
Leo T.
Hello I'm Leo, I’m a passionate tour guide working all over Japan, dedicated to sharing the country’s beauty, culture, and hidden gems. Guiding isn’t just my job — it’s my true passion. My mission is to create unforgettable experiences that let you connect with Japan on a deeper level, beyond the usual tourist spots . With me, you’ll meet locals and discover the real Japan in ways most visitors never get to see. Whether it’s exploring peaceful temples, tasting authentic regional dishes, or learning about time-honored traditions passed down through generations. Every tour is thoughtfully crafted to be unique and meaningful, so you’ll carry these memories with you long after your journey ends. Let’s explore Japan together and uncover its true spirit!
Karim A.
Hello and welcome! My name is Karim, and I'm your local guide for unforgettable tours across Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara — three of Japan’s most iconic and culturally rich cities. With a deep passion for Japanese history, food, and culture, I specialize in creating fun, informative, and personalized experiences that go beyond the typical tourist spots. Whether you want to explore ancient temples in Kyoto, vibrant street food in Osaka, or the peaceful charm of Nara’s deer parks and shrines, I’m here to help you experience it all like a local. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, a family, or a group of friends, I’ll make sure your visit is filled with authentic stories, local insights, and great memories. Let’s discover Japan together — one step, one bite, and one beautiful view at a time! Looking forward to meeting you, Karim
Popular Kyoto Private Tours
Premium tour of Kyoto (1) : Arashiyama, Nijo-jo Castle & Kinkakuji temple
Why not enjoy your holidays in Kyoto? You can certainly get in touch with many things Japanese that we are proud of. They are old temples and shrines, cultural assets and the beautiful natural surroundings. You can also enjoy dropping in at souvenir stores and buy exquisitely made products, such as folding fans, porcelain and traditional Japanese cakes. I would like to take you to the following places, which are the three representative tourist destinations in this city: (1) Arashiyama It is the place where all the traditional natural beauties of Japan are combined together. They are Togetsukyo bridge, bamboo grove and the old temples. If you go up to the observation spot, you can enjoy the magnificent view of the gorge below. You can also see rickshaws of the olden times drawn by young people with smiling passengers on board. There are souvenir shops selling variety of goods and products. (2) Nijo-jo Castle (World Cultural Heritage Site) This castle was built in the early 17th century by the Tokugawa Shogunate government for the purpose of protecting the Kyoto Imperial Palace and as the accommodations when Tokugawa Shogun was in Kyoto. It was subsequently enlarged by successive Shogun. It is the castle as well as the palace, where you can see the powerful structures and beautiful gardens. You can learn, in addition, how great the power of Tokugawa Shogun was. (3) Kinkakuji temple (the Golden Pavilion) (World Cultural Heritage Site) The history of this temple began when the third Shogun of the Muromachi period acquired a tract of land in this area from a powerful statesman in 1397 and built a villa of his own to entertain the Emperor and members of the nobility. The upper two levels of the temple are covered with pieces of gold foil and are shining brilliantly against the background of the rich greenery. The pond in the foreground reflects the golden structure. It looks like the materialization of Pure Land of Buddha in this world. In addition, on the top of the golden structure is the shining phoenix.
Premium tour of Kyoto (1) : Arashiyama, Nijo-jo Castle & Kinkakuji temple
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.
One day tour in Kyoto (Arashiyama area)
Hilights in Kyoto & Nara
We will visit three highlights in Kyoto, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Bamboo Grove & Tenryuji Temple in Arashiyama and Kinkakuji Temple and visit two highlights in Nara, Todaiji Temple and Nara Deer Park. You will fully enjoy these places and get in touch with feelings of Kyoto and Nara cultures.
Hilights in Kyoto & Nara
Bamboo grove and Arashiyama area, three World Heritages.
Arashiyama is the hottest tourist destination. It is incredibly beautiful in spring and fall because of its cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. In the fall, the leaves turn brown or red! In the outstanding Tenryuji, you will see a beautiful garden with beautiful mountains in the background. There are many other beautiful places with touching stories in this area. On the way back to downtown, we can visit two world heritage sites, Kinkakuji and Ryoanji. What a wonderful route!
Bamboo grove and Arashiyama area, three World Heritages.
New Kyoto Private Tours
Shinto Shrine, Buddhism Temple, Zen Garden, Old Town and Palace-Kyoto
Kyoto is blessed with a long history and rich culture. There are a lot of places to visit there, there are a lot of things to see there to understand its profundity. This tour covers five different categories, Shinto Shrine, Buddhism Temple, Zen Garden, Old Town and Palace to understand the cultural value of Kyoto It can be said that these different cultural aspects are mixed up to create the unique atmosphere of Kyoto.
Shinto Shrine, Buddhism Temple, Zen Garden, Old Town and Palace-Kyoto
One day trip to explore Okusaga, western Kyoto's hidden gem
Are you tired of the crowds? Let's explore Kyoto’s western treasures. Begin at the peaceful Ōtagi Nenbutsu-ji, famous for its hundreds of whimsical stone statues. Then walk along the historic Atago Kaidō to Jōjakkō-ji Temple. Stroll through the magical Bamboo Grove and visit Tenryū-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After lunch, we’ll head to Ryōan-ji, world-renowned rock garden, and finish at the glittering Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks.
One day trip to explore Okusaga, western Kyoto's hidden gem
Western Kyoto: A Hike around Historical Sites in Court Literature.
In the 8th century, Kyoto became the capital of the nation led by the emperor.10 km west of the Imperial Palace, the Sagano area, with the Katsuragawa River and Mt.Ogura, offered stunning scenery throughout the seasons. The Emperor, Imperial court clans, and literati built their villas and hermitages here, enjoying the composition of WAKA poetry, boating, and cherry blossoms/autumn leaves viewing. This hike takes you to historical sites in Sagano area that have inspired many celebrities.
Western Kyoto: A Hike around Historical Sites in Court Literature.
Eastern Kyoto
In this tour we will be discovering the eastern mountains of Kyoto, temples and shrines. Starting at the Silver pavillion, going through the philosopher's path, the light, the touch of the mountains of Kyoto will be with us as we discover Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines and wonderful streets. Nanzenji to downtown to walk down Pontocho and Gion, maybe the most famous Geiko neighbourhoods to finally end by Yasaka Pagoda, the sight the says, I went to Kyoto and survived.
Eastern Kyoto
Popular Kyoto Private Cars
Kyoto Spiritual Tour! – Half Day by Private Car
Visit 4 special places in Kyoto and feel the calm, spiritual energy. Kyoto is hot in summer, but you can relax in a cool and quiet car. This tour is only on weekdays, so there are fewer people. 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. The car can take 3 adults. If you come with kids, just tell us before!
Kyoto Spiritual Tour! – Half Day by Private Car
Kyoto Early Bird Highlights with Car Service
Join me on this tour as we explore five 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.
Kyoto Early Bird Highlights with Car Service
Comfortable Kyoto Van Tour (4–7 Guests): See All the Must-Sees, Hassle-Free
Kyoto is beautiful, but walking long distances and moving between sights can be tiring. This tour makes it easy. Ride in a van taxi. While crowds can’t always be avoided, you’ll save time and energy between stops. Visit famous spots like Fushimi Inari, Golden Temple, and Bamboo Forests with your guide who is a Instagram influencer can also take amazing photos of your trip.
Comfortable Kyoto Van Tour (4–7 Guests): See All the Must-Sees, Hassle-Free
A trip to Kyoto and Osaka in one day
If you want to visit as many cities as possible during your limited stay in Japan. In such cases, private car tours are recommended. Avoid crowded buses, tedious train transfers, and expensive taxies. I will cover all major sightseeing spots in Kyoto and Osaka in one day in comfort!
A trip to Kyoto and Osaka in one day
Kyoto Tour Reviews
Kelly D.
“Wonderful morning with Mr. Hayashi!”
We had a wonderful half-day with Mr. Hayashi! He was so kind, friendly, and accommodating. We would not have been able to visit as many wonderful places in Kyoto without his help. Booking with TR Taxi was easy and the communication was excellent. Thank you!
Jack H.
“Excellent gentlemanly service ”
Hiru showed my family around Kyoto for a day. It was extremely hot and he tried his best to make the visit as easy as possible for us. We learnt several interesting facts on history, Buddhism, Shintoism and Kyoto itself. I would recommend fully this experience, the only thing I would say is that if you suffer from the heat or periods of standing and walking then this tour could be challenging for you to complete.
Tatsuhiro N.
Hi Jack-san, Thank you very much for giving me a full mark. I am greatly encouraged by your favorable comment and I will keep your advice in mind in my future job. Best regard, Hiro
Rian W.
“An unforgettable day with Joshie – the ideal guide for exploring the city”
We had an unforgettable day exploring Kyoto with our guide, Joshie. His deep knowledge of the country’s culture and history, combined with his background as a teacher, made every moment both engaging and educational. He took the time to explain everything with patience and passion, which really enhanced our experience. The day ended on a high note with a fantastic dinner at a local restaurant, where we got to enjoy great food and conversation together. Joshie is not just a guide — he’s someone who genuinely connects with people. We highly recommend him to anyone looking for a meaningful and memorable tour. Even our children (ages 23, 21, and 17) were thoroughly impressed and became instant fans!
Yoshihisa T.
Hi Rian. I really appreciate your excellent comment on my tour in Kyoto. I am very pleased to learn that you all enjoyed every minute of the day during the tour. I am also glad that you liked the food and the atmosphere of the izakaya for dinner. I hope our paths will cross someday soon during the cherry blossom or autumn foliage season. I wish you the best of luck! Yoshie
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.
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