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
Koichi W.
4.95 / 5
(61 reviews)
Japan
Hi! I'm Koichi. I was born in Osaka, I studied in Kyoto when I was a university student. Now I live in Shiga next to Kyoto. I am a national government licensed tour guide. I have been guiding about 160 groups over the past twelve months. I usually guide my customers mainly in Kansai region including Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Kobe and Shiga by public transportation systems. Well, I am curious about Japanese history, especially the history of Japan's ancient times since I was raised next to the world biggest mausoleum of the ancient Emperor called "Nintoku" in Sakai city Osaka which has just become one of the world cultural heritage sites. I dug out some ancient earthen ware vessels around there when I was a primary school student like the adventure archaeologist “Indiana Jones" (It’s our secret!!). That was my hobby. Now, one of my hobbies is outdoor activities such as mountaineering, kayaking, skiing and others. So I would like to take you to some good places where you can enjoy Japanese unique nature. I love to guide foreign visitors from all over the world. I think it is my calling or heavenly given job. Let's go and enjoy together! I hope to see you soon.
Nori I.
5.00 / 5
(16 reviews)
Japan
I have lived in the US, UK, and India for approximately 20 years, and I’ve also traveled to many other 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!
Takashi M.
5.00 / 5
(19 reviews)
Japan
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 the city. 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 also guide you any other cities in Japan, just let me know where you wanna go :)
Hiroyuki T.
4.96 / 5
(115 reviews)
Japan
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.
New Kyoto Tour Guides
Kazumasa M.
Japan
Hi, my name is Kazu. I want to help people who are interested in Japan to enjoy their time here even more and have unforgettable experiences. I was born and raised in Osaka, studied abroad in the United States, and now live in Hyogo after getting married.
Kazu Y.
5.00 / 5
(1 reviews)
Japan
*[LIMITED TIME DISCOUNT] I created my profile a few days ago! Hi, I’m Kazuto! Please call me “Kazu”! I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been working as a Japanese tutor and sometimes show my students around Osaka. My students sometimes feel stressed in Japan due to the language barrier even though they study Japanese and I’ve decided to become a tour guide in Kansai to help tourists! DO YOU WANT A STRESS-FREE TRIP? I can be your private concierge for your trip. Let me know if you need any help! By the way, I like anime, manga, video games, I’m an Otaku :) There are a lot of “otaku” places in Osaka like “Nintendo Osaka”, “Pokemon Center”, “Shonen-JUMP store”, “Universal Studio Japan” and so on. I want to show impressive Japanese Pop Culture so much!! Japan has limited-time anime, game or manga-collab cafes. You have to book for many of them and I can help you with the booking! Also, I like eating out! I can offer bar-hopping tours, share good ramen restaurants, and so on! I’m looking forward to seeing you! Let’s explore deep Osaka!
Kai M.
Japan
I'm living in Osaka for 50 years. I am happy to share my experience with you to enjoy more about Osaka, Japan.
Akari Y.
Japan
It has been a year since I started guiding in the Kansai area last spring. I am passionate about introducing the beauty of Japan. I am happy to introduce guests from overseas to the Japanese culture established by our predecessors. I will introduce Japanese culture, food, cuisine, sake, nature, manga, spiritual culture, history, Buddhism, Shinto, Shugendo, pilgrimage paths, and other topics of interest. Let me introduce myself. I was born in Osaka and grew up in Osaka and Kyoto. I have lived in the U.S., China, and Australia when I was younger.
Popular Kyoto Private Tours
1 day special customized tour in Kyoto
Kyoto
7 hours
Kyoto has many beautiful places to visit. I especially would like to take you to the most exciting spots in Kyoto in 1 day. Please pick a few of the options from the following sightseeing places and I will take you as many places as possible at a reasonable price.
FROM$208/ per group
Toshiyo O.
4.67 / 5
(242 reviews)
My Favorite Golden Route: Kyoto One-day Tour
Kyoto
8 hours
This tour is designed for those who would like to visit major scenic sites in Kyoto and off-the-beaten spots as well in a single day. The route is the one that has been favored and admired by many of my guests for the past few years. The itinerary mainly consists of three areas; Kitayama, Arashiyama and Fushimi areas. You will surely have unforgettable memories through the tour with me.
FROM$215/ per group
Yoshihisa T.
4.97 / 5
(202 reviews)
Kyoto's most popular sightseeing spots tour and enjoy a various kinds of Kyoto's specialities
Kyoto
8 hours
This tour covers 3 must-see sites and Nishiki Market. You can experience the most renownd sites such as the Golden Pavilion, the rockGarden at Ryo-anji Temple where you may find an elegant beauty in its simplicity Nijo-castle ,the luxurious palace of the Tokugawa Shoguns. Sanjyu-sangendo is one of the three must -see sightseeing spots in kyoto.The thousand life-size statues and the Principal statue( height 3.5 meters) lining along the longest corrider in Japan , with a length of 120meters or 390 feet make you feel like you are in a forest of Buddhas! Every one who visits this temple says " Woow ! , It's amazing ! It's awesome ! It's awful ! " . Lastly visit Nishiki Market,where you can enjoy Kyoto’s specialities such as charming sweets , high quality tohu and Sake etc.
FROM$117/ per group
Hiroshi Y.
4.66 / 5
(319 reviews)
The tour covers 4 must-see sites in Kyoto
Kyoto
8 hours
This tour covers 4 must-see sightseeing spots in Kyoto. Firstly, we visit Fushimi Inari Shrine. If you walk through in the countless Trii-gates in the late evening , you must be feeling getting into a mysterious world. Sanjyu-sangendo temple where you can see the magnificient main statue and one thousand life sized Kannon statues. Every people says " I'ts awesome !" "I am in a forest of Buddha!!" Kiyomizudera-temple is one of the most oldest and famous temples in Kyoto. About 4mllion tourists visit this temple every year ! Lastly, we visit Nijyo-jyo Castle where you can enjoy the finest architecture and artworks and Shogun's private life in the Edo period. them we head for Gion area or flower town . If you have a good chance, you can meet a Maiko-san or a Geisya-san walking around the town.
FROM$117/ per group
Hiroshi Y.
4.66 / 5
(319 reviews)
New Kyoto Private Tours
Private tour Fushimi Inari, Golden Pavilion, Nijo Castle, Nishiki Market Start form Kyoto or Osaka
Kyoto
6 hours
Kyoto is the ancient and modern blend seamlessly. Join me on a private tour to explore two of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks: Fushini Inari, Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion and Nijo Castle, culminating in a vibrant exploration of Nishiki Market. Enriching journey through Kyoto's past and present, where each moment promises a new discovery.
FROM$254/ per group
Akari Y.
Half day Kyoto, two bamboo forests
Kyoto
4 hours
This tour is to enjoy the less busy area. We walk along the beautiful downhill course in Toriimoto, which is listed as a Preservation District for Groups of Historic Buildings. You will see another bamboo forest. We finish in the busy and popular Arashiyama area.
FROM$228/ per group
Shuji O.
4.93 / 5
(15 reviews)
Best of Kyoto Half Day Private Tour
Kyoto
3 hours 30 min
Kyoto has a lot to offer, however is difficult to choose where to go. In my Kyoto tour, I will take you to the Must-see spots of Kyoto in most efficient way. Most places are ranked in top 10 attractions. You will enjoy seeing unique and beautiful sights, and also the hidden gems of each location. We will stroll the city on foot and by train like locals for the day. As this is a private tour, if you have any requests to visit other places, I can customize a tour for you.
FROM$130/ per group
Taka M.
5.00 / 5
(8 reviews)
From Kyoto: Ninja's Homeland Electric Bicycle Private Tour
Kyoto
8 hours
Why don't you make a one-day trip from Kyoto to Koka Ninja's homeland of Koka City? Koka City is home of Ninjas, and just one hour away from Kyoto. It is a perfect place to avoid the big crowds of Kyoto and learn about the real Ninja. Koka is a quiet and beautiful rural town, and the best to go with a bicycle. There is no such tour to visit the real Ninja places guided by a Ninja/local Samurai descendant who can speak English. You can experience a very unique tour from this.
FROM$124/ per group
Taka M.
5.00 / 5
(8 reviews)
Popular Kyoto Private Cars
Kyoto sightseeing with a private chartered van (1-12pax)
Kyoto
8 hours
You can plan to visit several places around Kyoto within a limited time with our van. Our commuter can accommodate a group of up to 12 people and our service is available for 24h!
FROM$553/ per group
Van transportation M.
4.48 / 5
(154 reviews)
Kyoto and Osaka sightseeing with a private van (1-12pax)
Kyoto
8 hours
You can plan to visit several places around Kyoto and Osaka within a limited time with our van. Our commuter can accommodate a group of up to 12 people and our service is available for 24h!
FROM$553/ per group
Van transportation M.
4.48 / 5
(154 reviews)
Kyoto 8-Hour Tour with a Private Car
Kyoto
8 hours
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.
FROM$357/ per group
Tr taxi R.
4.87 / 5
(230 reviews)
Kyoto Early Bird Highlights with Car Service
Kyoto
6 hours 30 min
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.
FROM$244/ per group
Kanae O.
5.00 / 5
(9 reviews)
Kyoto Tour Reviews
“Kazu is amazing ”
We were extremely lucky to have Kazu as our guide for Kyoto. He was so very patient and accommodating as we kept on changing our plans. Being a group of 11, we were his largest group he had ever worked with and we were probably very difficult to wrangle and organize. Kazu was always positive and patient. He was extremely knowledgeable about Kyoto, the culture and the landmarks. We would all recommend Kazu to anyone who is visiting Japan.
Kazuhiko G.
(168 reviews)Hello, Thank you for the nice review. I hope you are not too tired from the hot weather. I enjoyed guiding this tour as well. I hope this tour will be a memorable one for all of us. Thank you!!
“"Unforgettable Cultural Experience in Kyoto??”
We had the opportunity to participate in a guided tour in Kyoto with an exceptional private guide. Not only Hiroshi was kind and funny, but he also communicated the history and culture of Japan in a captivating way. His passion for his country and his deep knowledge of Kyoto enriched our travel experience in an unforgettable way. Thanks to his detailed and lively explanations, we were able to fully appreciate the richness of the history and traditions of this beautiful city. We highly recommend Hiroshi to anyone looking to discover Kyoto in an authentic and enriching way. An unforgettable cultural experience guaranteed!
“Kyoto tour +”
A great day with Yuri. It was a hot day but she managed the day well. Kept us well informed about what we were seeing and little stories along the way. Thanks Yuri.
Yuri T.
(24 reviews)Dear Martin, I really appreciate your positive review. It was surely my pleasure to served you all as a guide. Thank you so much again. Regards, Yuri
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
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Latest Kyoto Articles
Travel Tips
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 Da...
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Jun 03, 2024
General
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 stressi...
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Itinerary Ideas
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 histo...
Ajitsa Ashihundu
Jun 03, 2024
Itinerary Ideas
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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The best tours and activities
With a real local of your choice
The option to personalize your tour
Just contact your favorite local
Only private tours!
So no group tours with strangers
