Osaka Private Tours &amp; Local Tour Guides

(8 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 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.

Hiroyuki T.

4.94 / 5

(90 reviews)

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.

4.94 / 5

(49 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.

Yoshihisa T.

4.97 / 5

(185 reviews)

Hi. My name is Yoshihisa. Call me "Yoshie", please. It means good or O.K. in Japanese. I live in Joyo City, Kyoto Prefecture, located just in between Kyoto and Nara. I was born and raised in Iga, Mie Prefecture. Iga is a birthplace of ninja and a renowned haiku poet, Matsuo Basho. I might be a descendant of ninja. I aim at becoming a linguistic ninja, following a part of Basho's lifestyle with the incorporation of seasonal changes into my tours. In addition to visiting famous temples and shrines, I invite you to lesser-known places of historic interest. Once in a month I go hiking or mountain climbing with some friends mainly in mountains surrounding Kyoto and Nara basins. Recently I have got intrigued by the charms of Buddhist statues, which are manifestations of people's wishes and prayers. I also like izakaya (Japanese-style taverns) hopping, tasting delicious dishes and locally brewed sake at reasonable prices. Especially I like communicating with people from home and abroad, talking face to face. Some of the above-mentioned elements are included in my walking tours. I hope you will discover new aspects of cultural and natural beauty in Kansai area through one of my tours which you could never gain otherwise. One of my favorite phrases that come from Zen Buddhism is Ichigo Ichie or this meeting-but only once in a lifetime. My interpretation goes this way: This place and this moment never cross again. Each and every good encounter, however, lingers on like the sound of a temple bell. Won't you explore a deeper world of Japanese culture in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka with me?

Makoto Y.

4.96 / 5

(94 reviews)

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!!

Atsuko T.

4.95 / 5

(41 reviews)

Hello. My name is Atsuko.I'm a licensed tour guide in Japan. I have lived in Osaka since I was born. I have guided many tourists all over the world as a volunteer for 6 years. I like showing my tourists my favorite places in Japan and talking with them. Osaka, where I was born and raised, is famous for foods, modern and ancient cultures. Nara and Kyoto, which are neighboring places, were ancient capitals in Japan. I'm happy to visit those places with you.

Tomoe S.

4.93 / 5

(97 reviews)

Hello! My name is Tomoe. I'm a national licensed guide interpreter(English). I made my page here, TripleLights in October 2018. Thank you for finding me. I was born and grew up in Otsu,Shiga, which is the next city of Kyoto. I graduated from the university in Kyoto and lived there for four years due to my husband's job. I like history and like to visit temples in Nara. My hobby is to plan trips and have visited many cities and towns in Japan and abroad. One of my favorite places is the AIRPORT!! I have enjoyed meeting and guiding people from abroad, to sightseeing spots in my country. I really want many people from abroad to enjoy visiting many places and have wonderful experiences in my country. I'll be really happy if I can have such experiences with you!! Please tell and ask me if there are any places which you want to visit and anything which you want to do in my country. I'll plan the trip only for you. I am cheerful and always positive. I like to talk with people. I would like to talk with many people from many countries. Please tell me about your country, too!! I'm looking forward to seeing you!! * If you want, I will take you back to your hotel (within the time or with the extra hourly rate) Or, I will show you how to go back to your hotel when we finish the tour. * If you want, I will give you some advice about what to and where to eat your lunch/dinner.

Shuji O.

4.90 / 5

(10 reviews)

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Hi, I am Shuji, a licensed tour guide living near Kansai International Airport. I taught world history in high schools for four decades. So, I can explain Japanese culture or history in an easier way tailored to you who have different cultural and historical backgrounds. I also practiced Kendo, Japanese fencing, for more than four decades, and now I enjoy growing vegetables and going fishing. Therefore, I can also share some Japanese culture and its nature. I have traveled to more than 25 countries and all over Japan. I’m also passionate about photography and know many photogenic places in Japan. If you prefer to go off the beaten track, I can take you to hidden gems, including some cozy restaurants. Of course, I also know how to enjoy the crowded, most popular tourist sites. I am here to make your trip stress-free. See you soon!

New Osaka Tour Guides

Kazuyoshi M.

I am a guide working mainly in Osaka and Kyoto. I can provide travel guidance to places where foreigners do not usually go. I can also guide you to places popular among foreigners if you want to visit them. I have lived in Osaka for 7 years, so I am a specialist in sightseeing in Osaka. I can also guide sightseeing in Kyoto, as it is my favorite city to visit. I look forward to having an enjoyable trip with you.

Roberto A.

Experience the essence of Kyoto and its captivating culture on my essential walking tour. Immerse yourself in the heart of this beautiful city and gain a profound understanding of its rich heritage. I'm a licensed National Tour Conductor with 26 years living in Japan.

Reiko N.

Hi, my name is Reiko. Ciao, tutti! Sono Reiko, sono guida turistica autorizzata in Giappone.Possiamo visitare zona Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe e etc.... Potete avere l'esperienza straordinaria con me. Vi aspetto in Giappone. I am National Licensed Guide, Italian language. I speak also English. I know very well, most popular place and nice food.....

Eco H.

Eco has called Kyoto his home for the last 7 years, and now he hopes to share with you all he has learned of this wonderful city and the surrounding area. Recent graduate with a background in Japanese history and religion, he is now a professor a university in nearby Kobe city. Therefore, if you are particularly interested in learning more about the history and culture of Kyoto he can provide exciting narratives to go along with visiting the delightful sites. Throughout his time in Kyoto he has been working as a guide for numerous organisations, including guiding around Japanese tourists visiting Kyoto, and has provided many with a unique view of the city.

Yuta I.

(10 reviews)

Hi, my name is Yuta! I want to show you my city Kyoto and its culture, food and history in a funny way! I can speak English and German. I love travelling myself and especially with the help of a local. So I want to become your local Kyoto friend and show you the city how I see it!

Natsuko I.

(3 reviews)

Hello! My name is Natsuko. Thank you for visiting my page. I used to work for a trading company, which gave me the opportunity to use English with overseas business partners. After leaving the company, I became an English teacher for children and I discovered that I really enjoy spending time with kids. I also had the experience of being a host family for international students, and it was so fulfilling to show them around various tourist spots and see them happy. I hope you can have a wonderful experience in Japan too! Would you like to join one of my fun tours? I look forward to seeing you again!

Kiyoshi U.

Hello everyone! I’m Kiyoshi 36-year-old Japanese man. I love ONE PIECE,NARUTO and love drinking with friends of many different backgrounds around the globe. I’d love to show you what Japan really is like and I d also like to help to communicate with local young guys and senior gentlemen and ladies. Let’s get together to enjoy real Japan

Ana I.

(8 reviews)

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Hello everyone! I am Ana and I am an experienced tour conductor, guiding clients throughout Japan. I am Romanian and have been living in Japan for over 10 years. I am versed in creating customized on-the-budget tours for solo travellers, families or groups. Please allow me to show you the natural beauty, traditions, history and amazing food of KYOTO, NARA and OSAKA. Feel free to contact me for a standard package OR a customized trip. I will put my very best effort into meeting your needs and creating an amazing trip. WELCOME TO JAPAN!

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.

Osaka One Day Tour with history & local food

Osaka is one of the most popular tourist spots in Japan. It has a mix of unique cultures which are traditional and modern. It has developed and flourished for geographical reasons. This tour includes Osaka Castle and Shitennoji Temple, which have a long history in Japan, and the Sky Building, which has a remarkable modern architecture. Osaka is also famous for delicious foods. You can enjoy eating local and special food in Osaka. Let's enjoy the tour together !

Your most memorable tour in Osaka

The city of Osaka flourished around the eponymous Osaka Castle during the Edo era, and is now the third largest city in Japan. It is said to be the center of commerce and is a vibrant city with an atmosphere distinct from that of Tokyo or Kyoto. Please visit Osaka and get to know a different side of the country.

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.

Osaka Highlights (Osaka departure)

7 hours

This Osaka highlights tour includes popular destinations in Osaka, Osaka castle, Kuromon Ichiba Market, Dotonboti district in one day. I believe this tour is suitable for beginner of Osaka travelers.

Deep Backstreet Osaka Tours (With Dinner Option)

Explore the non-touristic areas of Osaka on this internationally recognized award winning tour (Voted # 1 in the whole of Japan on all the big review websites), where the veil of "perfect Japan" will be lifted. Get an unfiltered understanding of how the city really functions in the abandoned buildings area, retro zone, alleys, redlight district, gambling dens, yakuza strongholds and more.

Osaka Castle, Dotombori, Shin-Sekai

I take you to Osaka Castle, Dotombori, Sginsekai and Shinsaibashi Shopping Street. Osaka Castle was built by Toyotomi HIDEYOSHI. Oh, it's my residence, isn't it !! You can commands a panoramic view of Osaka city from the observatory. In Dotnobori you have popular Osaka local foods such as Okonomiyaki. Takoyaki, and Kushikatsu. Shin-Sekai is a downtown area with a strange mix of nostalgic atmosphere. We mainly use subway for about 820JPY and Your entrance fee is 600JPY/person.

One day tour to Mt. Koya from Osaka. Be enchanted.

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10 hours

Mt. Koya is a very important part of the World Heritage site “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountains”. Mt. Koya is in Wakayama Prefecture and I used to work for Wakayama Prefectural Government as a general manager of Cultural Heritage Division and I was also in charge of the World Heritage Project. I know this sacred mountain very well.

New Osaka Private Tours

Eating and shopping in Osaka's longest shopping street

2 hours

The most famous shopping street in Osaka is Kuromon Ichiba, but Osaka residents prefer to go to Tenjinbashisuji Shopping and Foods Street. This is the most famous and longest shopping and foods street in Osaka. Most of the customers are Japanese, so you can feel the daily life of Japanese people. This tour is also a meal-focused tour, so you will be able to enjoy Osaka's soul food. This is a short tour that will definitely satisfy you.

FROM$122/ per group

Kazuyoshi M.

The best trip with me in Osaka

6 hours

12:00 meet me Shinsaibasi or Umeda in Osaka We have lunch Osaka food together. Takoyaki or etc... 13:00 We gonna go to Osaka castle. 15:00 We gonna go to Nakazakicho. You can relax from your trip by walking through the streets of Osaka's cafes and enjoying coffee and sweet treats! 16:00 We gonna go to Numba Depa Basement. It is rarely visited by foreigners. You can also buy souvenirs. 17:30 We gonna go to Dotonbori. You can take some photos. 18:30 We'll give you dinner recommendations.

FROM$130/ per group

Kazuyoshi M.

Mangiamo a Dotonbori con Pranzo Giapponese e Parfait

11:30~14:30 Giro di Dotonbori con Pranzo e Dolce Giriamo zona divertente Dotonbori dove ci sono i famosi cartelloni gigante tridimensionali, forma di Granchio, Sushi, Contadino, Doragone....... Anche possiamo visitare Vicolo Houzenji, Tempio Hozenji, Ponte Ebisu...... Durante questo giro, potete mangiare Takoyaki e Kushikatsu e Okonomiyaki.... A pranzo mangiamo　”Cucina Giapponese” , e poi andiamo a prendere un PARFAIT (gelato con frutta e panna.....). Solo 3 ore, ma siete pieno di stomaco.

FROM$259/ per group

Reiko N.

Mangiamo a Dotonbori Giorno (cibo di strada)

11:30~14:30 Giro di Dotonbori con cibo di strada Giriamo zona divertente Dotonbori dove ci sono i famosi cartelloni gigante tridimensionali, forma di Granchio, Sushi, Contadino, Doragone....... Anche possiamo visitare Vicolo Houzenji, Tempio Hozenji, Ponte Ebisu...... Durante questo giro, mangiamo TAKOYAKI e KUSHIKATSU e Okonomiyaki. Solo 3 ore, ma siete pieno di stomaco.

FROM$181/ per group

Reiko N.

Osaka Castle and Wagyu Teppanyaki Experience Tour

5 hours

Our "Osaka Castle and Wagyu Teppanyaki Experience Tour" offers a unique and immersive exploration of Osaka's rich history and culinary delights. Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Osaka Castle, where you'll delve into the city's fascinating past. Then, indulge in a mouthwatering Wagyu Teppanyaki dining experience, savoring the finest Japanese beef cooked to perfection right before your eyes.

Osaka: Culinary Culture Tour 6 hours

6 hours

In this tour, first we will visit Osaka Castle, one of the must-see spots in Osaka. Then we will visit food-related places, such as Dohtonbori Canal Area and Kuromon Market. Sometimes, Osaka is called "Tenka no Daidokoro". It means, "the kitchen of the country". We will visit these exciting spots, focusing on the culinary culture in Osaka. In the conclusion of this tour, you will have an idea why Osaka is called "Tenka no Daidokoro".

Osaka : OLD & NEW Tour 6 hours

6 hours

Firstly, you will visit Osaka Castle. The castle was built in the late16th century during the medieval ages. After learning about the Warring State Times in Japan, you will visit The Osaka Museum of Housing and Living to see and feel how the people in Osaka lived in the 1830s. On the contrary to visiting a few historic places besides Tenmangu Shrine as “Old”, we will visit Dotonbori Area, as “New”, representing modern times in the Southern part of Osaka.

A day trip to Hiroshima from Osaka

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10 hours

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is the place every human being should visit. Itsukushima Shrine, which looks like floating on the sea, is one of the best scenic beauties in Japan. We can eat the local food of Hiroshima, like Hiroshima yaki. You can make a day trip to Hiroshima from Osaka.

Popular Osaka Private Cars

Private Transfer between KIX Airport and hotel in Osaka

1 hour 30 min

This is a private van transfer service between kansai international Airport and your hotel in Osaka. Our van can accommodate a group of up to 12 people and our service is available for 24h. If you are looking for a convenient charter service for your tour group, this is the right choice!

FROM$246/ per group

Van transportation M.

4.48 / 5

(153 reviews)

Osaka sightseeing with a private chartered van (1-12pax)

You can plan to visit several places around 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$551/ per group

Van transportation M.

4.48 / 5

(153 reviews)

Kansai International Airport to Kyoto City Private Transfer

2 hours

You don't have to stand in a train or carry your heavy luggage all the way. Our transfer will make your way to a hotel or other destinations very much convenient and efficient.

Itami Airport (ITM) to Osaka City Private Transfer

1 hour

You don't have to stand in a train or carry your heavy luggage all the way. Our transfer will make your way to a hotel or other destinations very much convenient and efficient.

Itami Airport (ITM) to Osaka City Private Transfer

1 hour

You don't have to stand in a train or carry your heavy luggage all the way. Our transfer will make your way to a hotel or other destinations very much convenient and efficient.

Osaka Day Tour with a Private Car

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.

Osaka City to Kansai International Airport Private Transfer

1 hour 30 min

You don't have to stand in a train or carry your heavy luggage all the way. Our transfer will make your way to a hotel or other destinations very much convenient and efficient.

Kansai International Airport to Kyoto City Private Transfer

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2 hours

You don't have to stand in a train or carry your heavy luggage all the way. Our transfer will make your way to a hotel or other destinations very much convenient and efficient.

Day Trips from Osaka

Kyoto

Nara

Kobe

Hyogo

Wakayama

Osaka Tour Reviews

Steven E.

5 / 5

Apr 17, 2024

Kyoto Tour for Steven and Pi’ilani

12 hours 30 min

Customized

Apr 17, 2024

“We Had A Grand Time!!!”

We toured Kyoto and Osaka with Takashi. He is an excellent guide and made our 2 days of touring exciting. He is very knowledgeable and we took public transportation with ease. I had a knee injury and he directed us to elevators and escalators for easy access. Best guide on our trip!

Takashi M.

(8 reviews)

Thank you very much for the review. I had a great time with you two :) You’re always welcome to Japan!!

Irina P.

5 / 5

Apr 17, 2024

Osaka Tour April 12, 2024

4 hours

Customized

Apr 17, 2024

“Half Day Osaka Tour with Mimmy - great time!”

Mimmy was an excellent guide. She is knowledgeable and interesting. She showed us all the highlights of Osaka and pointed out the most interesting details. She speaks excellent English and is very caring, taking us back to our original destination even though it was past our alotted time. I highly recommend her!

Sascha M.

5 / 5

Apr 16, 2024

Osaka Traditional Food Tour in Shin-Sekai & Dotonbori area

Apr 16, 2024

“Very kids friendly, local and tasty!”

A nice neighborhood tour around Osaka local food. On time pickup, friendly and knowledgeable. Great blend of culture and food enjoyment.

Naoki H.

(15 reviews)

Thank you so much for posting a great review. I am glad to hear that you enjoyed the tour! I had such a wonderful time introducing our traditional food, culture and history of Osaka! I really wish that we had been able to go on the food tour all together. I wish your child a quick recovery. Thank you so much again for spending your precious family time with me. Please enjoyed the rest of your stay in Japan. Arigato-Gozaimashita! Best Regards Naoki

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