Osaka Private Tours &amp; Local Tour Guides

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.

Koichi W.

4.96 / 5

(70 reviews)

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.

Takashi M.

5.00 / 5

(29 reviews)

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. 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 guide you in any city in Japan, just let me know where you wanna go :)

Makoto Y.

4.93 / 5

(111 reviews)

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Hello, I’m Makoto (Mac) and I'm a national-licensed tour guide. My previous career as an automotive engineer, gave me the opportunity to learn English and to live in the US, Germany, and England. After I retired, I learned more about the Japanese history especially focusing on Nara and Kyoto to become a historical specialist of the Nara area. I now live in Ikaruga town in Nara prefecture, where the UNESCO World Heritage, Horyuji temple is located. I regularly offer guides on the Fujinoki tumulus, which is located near the Horyuji temple. It contains very interesting Archaeological findings from the end of the Kofun Period. Recently, there are many foreign tourists who come to Japan, and I hope they enjoy learning about the culture and history of Japan. I would like to help tourists have a broader and deeper understanding of the Japanese culture and that is the reason why I decided to become a tour guide to help and support their experience in Japan. Nara is the place where Japan started. The capital was located in Asuka, Fujiwara and Nara before it moved to Kyoto. Therefore, there are many places to visit in Nara to trace the original history of Japan, which I have a depth of knowledge. Let’s explore the roots of Japan together!!

New Osaka Tour Guides

Takato Y.

5.00 / 5

(1 reviews)

Welcome to a unique journey through Kyoto and Osaka. As a passionate, certified guide, I’m committed to revealing the region’s most authentic experiences—from hidden shrines and tranquil gardens to lively shopping streets and mouthwatering local delicacies. My personalized tours offer a seamless blend of cultural insights and modern comforts, tailored to your interests and pace. Whether you wish to savor a traditional tea ceremony or immerse yourself in the bright lights of Dotonbori, every moment is carefully designed to be unforgettable. Safety, comfort, and in-depth exploration are my top priorities, ensuring you enjoy the best of Japan without worry.

Menshawi F.

Konnichiwa! I'm a passionate licensed tour guide and for me, being a tour guide isn't just a job. Its a way to share my love for Kyoto city and create meaningful connection with people from around the world. I enjoy helping travelers feel at home, discover new perspectives and leave with cherished memories. I look forward to welcoming you on a journey of discovery, whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to explore even deeper. Let's make your trip truly special together. If you're looking for an adventure off the beaten path or a deep dive into local tradition, my goal is to make every moment memorable.Let me guide you on a journey you'll cherish forever

Yosshi S.

Thank you for visiting my page. I will guide you to the ancient capital cities with 1000 years of urban development and 100 years of filming and screening history. I grew up in Osaka, studied in Kyoto, and worked for 20 years as an urban planning expert for the national and local governments. During this time, I surveyed many community development sites throughout Japan. I welcomed business leaders to encourage investment in the cities. After quitting my career, I became a film-loving professional engineer. I visited unique cities in foreign countries to see urban planning and locations that appeared in picturesque film scenes and posted photos on social media (90 cities in 30 countries up to now). The more I saw foreign cities, the more I loved my hometown. I wanted to know about the travel industry and got a national license as a Guide-Interpreter and Travel Service Manager. I have started guiding based in the old capital cities. The entire area of old Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara has been a Metropolitan area centered on the Imperial Palace, and the actual location of the Palace has changed 15 times since the 7th century. This area has many historical spots and hidden attractions in different times and places: the townscape, temples, shrines, landscaped gardens, and historical drama locations (SAMURAI drama). I will create your favorite tour using my list, and guide you leisurely. I look forward to hearing from you.

Yacine Z.

5.00 / 5

(2 reviews)

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I've been living in Japan since 2016. I speak fluent Japanese and work as a translator in addition to my guiding activities. I'd be delighted to guide you around the Kansai region, which includes Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe and Nara, among others. I've been lucky enough to guide over 200 people since I started guiding, and I hope to be able to share my passion for Japan with as many people as possible. I'm available for half-day or full-day tours. Tours are available in English or French, depending on your preferences.

Popular Osaka Private Tours

Osaka Highlights, Best for the first timer

7 hours

There are a lot of places to visit, a lot of things to do in Osaka. From historical sites to food venders hopping. CHOOSE 3-4 places you want to visit from the list below and let me know. I will customize a tour for you.

Perfect Trip in Osaka

There are many interesting and exciting places to visit in Osaka. But it might take at least a few days to visit all the popular places. So I chose the best places to visit in Osaka and I will take you to all in 1 day!! You will enjoy the culture and history and food of Osaka. And I'm sure that you will be in love with Osaka by the end of the tour ;)

One day tour of Osaka

7 hours

Osaka has been developed as international commercial city historically. People have developed the special culture in food, entertainment. This tour covers the historical sight-Osaka castle, Downtown-Dotonbori, and new Osaka station area with Umeda Sky building. We may add some more spots depending upon the interests of the customer. You enjoy the local gourmet dining, entertainment, and historical sights. You will catch the energy of Osaka people as the international city.

Visiting Nara from Osaka ～truly the must-see place in Japan～

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Nara: the must-see place in Japan. Nara was the capital of ancient Japan before Kyoto became the capital. In the Nara era, Buddhism played an important role in stabilizing the country. So you can see many big old temples there. Many of these are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites and are concentrated in a small area. So, if you have only one free day to spend in the Kansai area, I highly recommend visiting Nara.

New Osaka Private Tours

Southern Osaka Explorer Tour

5 hours

We'll first visit the site of Japan's largest tombs, in Sakai City. Then we'll take a train to Sumiyoshi Grand Shrine, which is the favorite Shinto place of Osaka people. On weekends, we may even see traditional Shinto weddings. Our next stop will be Nishinari and Shinsekai districts. Nishinari is what people would call the "deep" part of Osaka, where few foreign visitors go, whereas Shinsekai is more open to tourists. Yet both have in common this retro vibe that I personally love.

Half-Day Tour of the Way of Thinking about Creative Person in Osaka

5 hours 30 min

Visit the birthplace of Cup noodles and Manga and practice making them. An entrepreneur constructed the 25km-long new railway line with the Revue Hall and the Department Store at both ends over 100 years ago. North St. Terminal, a student nurtured his manga impulse. Intermediate Sta., an inventor struggled to produce the world’s first Instant Raman/Cup noodle. South Sta. Terminal, video game characters from Nintendo attract attention from international visitors.

FROM$144/ per group

Yosshi S.

Spiritual Tour in Temple Town, Osaka

5 hours 30 min

Visit an image of paradise in this world and the afterlife. Osaka began around the 7th century when the Imperial Palace and the Temple were built on the hill. In the Middle Ages, aristocrats believed that the paradise (Pure Land of Buddha) of the afterlife was beyond the setting sun, and built hermitages for Sunset Meditation. Time passed, and merchants enjoyed the performing arts in a paradise-like entertainment zone below the hill. Movie Palace was also built, and the slopes became locations.

FROM$179/ per group

Yosshi S.

Kobe waterfront & Nunobiki Herb Gardens and Ropeway (from Osaka)

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We visit Kobe from Osaka. Kobe has a different feel from Osaka or Kyoto. We will see the beautiful harbor area and mountain park, which we can enjoy from the Port Tower and Nunobiki Herb Garden. Kobe also has an international feel. There is an extensive Chinatown, Residences of the Western people, a Cathedral, a Mosk, a Synagogue, etc.. And, if you like, we can walk a mountain trail and visit some waterfalls. Let's enjoy them.

Popular Osaka Private Cars

Private Sightseeing from Kansai International Airport to Osaka/Kyoto

3 hours

I will pick you up at the airport and take you to two famous spots in Osaka City and then drop you off at the hotel. Our tour guide speak English, so you can feel at ease. Up to four people. The tour can be customized, including changes to the destination or making stops along the way.

Enjoy Osaka in a convertible car

I will guide you to the most popular places in Osaka. The itinerary is just an example, and destinations can be changed according to your needs. More than you think, English is not spoken in Japan. To enjoy a trouble-free trip, please contact me!

Osaka Day Tour with a Private Car

3 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. Please choose the itinerary from A, B, or C.

Hyogo 1Day tour

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10 hours

Hyogo Prefecture is full of famous sightseeing spots nationwide! Among them, Arima Onsen, which is famous as the back room of Kansai, is a place you should definitely visit. There are many other fashionable spots around Kobe such as Port Island and Kitanozaka that look great on SNS!

Day Trips from Osaka

Kyoto

Nara

Kobe

Hyogo

Wakayama

Osaka Tour Reviews

Eduardo C.

5 / 5

Jan 23, 2025

Osaka Half-day (5 hour) Tour

5 hours

Customized

Jan 23, 2025

“Excellent day in Osaka!”

This was the first day that Koichi guided me and my family. From the very beginning he was extremely friendly and welcoming! We took the best routes to explore Osaka Castle, the Shinsenkai entertainment district and Dotonbori, stopping for lunch along the way. Koichi knows all the best corners for photos, which look wonderful! The entire tour is also very informative, and his tour book is very helpful in finding out historical facts and curiosities. It was an excellent day!

Fabio S.

5 / 5

Jan 19, 2025

Family-Friendly Osaka Highlights

7 hours

Jan 19, 2025

“Osaka with Kids”

We had a wonderful day with Natsuko. She was very sweet and the kids loved the games and attractions. We got to see the key attractions in Osaka and had a great lunch at a charming local restaurant.

Natsuko I.

Thank you so much for choosing me as your tour guide! I was really happy to explore Osaka with your wonderful family. It was great to spend time with your adorable kids. I'm glad you all had a wonderful day!

Alvaro G.

5 / 5

Jan 13, 2025

El Tour Perfecto en Osaka