Japan Private Tours &amp; Local Tour Guides

Daizaburo N.

Hi ! I am Daizaburo. Please call me Dai-chan (chan is a suffix expressing friendliness). I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter living in Shimane (western part). I was born and brought up in Shimane and worked as a teacher of English in high school for more than 30 years. I have been interested in tour guides for a long time. I visited many places of interests throughout Japan and above all I was charmed with Tokyo, Hokkaido and Okinawa. I am flexible about destinations and can arrange the tour according to your request. I will try hard to make your stay in Japan very special and memorable. Let's explore our beautiful and exciting country together. I'm very friendly and kind, too. For any concerns, please just contact me. I am here to help you! See you soon !

Michael G.

Originally from Canada, I've been living in Japan for 35 years, most of that in Miyazaki. I speak the language and I know the area better than most locals. In Miyazaki, there is a lack of public transport so I'd be happy to drive you to places like Aoshima (a beautiful beach and surfing hub), Udo Jingu (a unique seaside shrine), the samurai and merchant residences of Obi, and introduce you to the best spots for local food, shopping, or nightlife, as well as let you in on a few hidden secrets of Miyazaki if you have the time.

Hiroshi M.

I’m a local licensed guide based in Kochi Prefecture. I grew up by the Pacific Ocean in Kochi and spent four years each in Tokyo and the United States—giving me both deep local knowledge and a global perspective. Although I’m new to GoWithGuide, I’ve been welcoming international guests for years through my private rental villa in Aki City and as a local guide in Kochi. Working in the travel industry, I know not only the famous landmarks but also the hidden gems of the region. All the photos you see here were taken by me—I enjoy photography, and if you’d like, I’d be happy to capture some memorable shots for you during the tour.

Rieko S.

Hello! I am Rieko, a licensed tour guide with a deep passion for sharing the wonders of Gunma. Located in the center of the main island of Japan, Gunma has been a place where travelers from various parts of Japan, like Tokyo, Niigata, and Nagano, come and go. Some would relax in a hot spring, others would be encouraged by beautiful scenery. Gunma has helped them rejuvenate and keep traveling with energy. Drawing from my experience as a local tour guide and knowledge of Japanese culture, history, and traditions, I offer you a seamless and immersive journey. Embark on an adventure with me and discover the untold stories, hidden treasures, and vibrant local communities that make Gunma a truly remarkable destination. I hope to see you soon!

Daizaburo N.

Hi ! I am Daizaburo. Please call me Dai-chan (chan is a suffix expressing friendliness). I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter living in Shimane (western part). I was born and brought up in Shimane and worked as a teacher of English in high school for more than 30 years. I have been interested in tour guides for a long time. I visited many places of interests throughout Japan and above all I was charmed with Tokyo, Hokkaido and Okinawa. I am flexible about destinations and can arrange the tour according to your request. I will try hard to make your stay in Japan very special and memorable. Let's explore our beautiful and exciting country together. I'm very friendly and kind, too. For any concerns, please just contact me. I am here to help you! See you soon !

Michael G.

Originally from Canada, I've been living in Japan for 35 years, most of that in Miyazaki. I speak the language and I know the area better than most locals. In Miyazaki, there is a lack of public transport so I'd be happy to drive you to places like Aoshima (a beautiful beach and surfing hub), Udo Jingu (a unique seaside shrine), the samurai and merchant residences of Obi, and introduce you to the best spots for local food, shopping, or nightlife, as well as let you in on a few hidden secrets of Miyazaki if you have the time.

Hiroshi M.

I’m a local licensed guide based in Kochi Prefecture. I grew up by the Pacific Ocean in Kochi and spent four years each in Tokyo and the United States—giving me both deep local knowledge and a global perspective. Although I’m new to GoWithGuide, I’ve been welcoming international guests for years through my private rental villa in Aki City and as a local guide in Kochi. Working in the travel industry, I know not only the famous landmarks but also the hidden gems of the region. All the photos you see here were taken by me—I enjoy photography, and if you’d like, I’d be happy to capture some memorable shots for you during the tour.

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Rieko S.

Hello! I am Rieko, a licensed tour guide with a deep passion for sharing the wonders of Gunma. Located in the center of the main island of Japan, Gunma has been a place where travelers from various parts of Japan, like Tokyo, Niigata, and Nagano, come and go. Some would relax in a hot spring, others would be encouraged by beautiful scenery. Gunma has helped them rejuvenate and keep traveling with energy. Drawing from my experience as a local tour guide and knowledge of Japanese culture, history, and traditions, I offer you a seamless and immersive journey. Embark on an adventure with me and discover the untold stories, hidden treasures, and vibrant local communities that make Gunma a truly remarkable destination. I hope to see you soon!

New Japan Tour Guides

Sawyer S.

After studying western religion, I flew to Japan to study Buddhism & Shinto. I trained as a monk in the Japanese alps of Fukui prefecture, and learned traditional crafts including washi paper-making, knife making, and tea ceremony. I've visited all 47 prefectures of Japan in my decade in Japan. Now I live in Kyoto, which has some of the grandest temples and shrines in all of Japan. My goal is to find joy through connection and share what I've learned. As I'm new to GoWithGuide and seeking reviews, I'm currently offering discounted rates!

Aya M.

Hi, I’m Aya! A local guide from Osaka, born and raised in a traditional Japanese farmhouse. My family has been growing Mitsuba（japanese traditional vegetable）and seasonal vegetables for generations, and I love sharing the authentic countryside lifestyle with guests from around the world. After studying and working in Australia, I realized how deeply travelers value real connection with local people. That inspired me to create experiences where visitors can feel everyday Japan — not just observe it. In my tours, I introduce guests to the heart of Japanese culture: • Hands-on farm experiences at my family’s fields • Calligraphy in our traditional Japanese home • Tea time on the engawa, surrounded by nature One of the things I cherish most is omotenashi —Japan’s unique spirit of hospitality that values sincerity, care, and putting others before oneself. Through my experiences, I hope to share this quiet richness of Japanese life: the warmth, the thoughtfulness, and the deep sense of connection that locals naturally offer. My style is warm, welcoming, and relaxed. I guide at your pace, answer any questions, and make sure you feel comfortable — like visiting a friend’s home in the countryside. If you’re looking for genuine culture, meaningful moments, and a true local connection, I’d be honored to welcome you. Feel free to message me anytime.

Victoria N.

My name is Victoria, and I’ve been living on Okinawa for 10 years. Would you like to visit non-touristy places known only to locals? I’ll be happy to show them to you! For more than six years, I’ve been guiding tours and sharing the beauty and atmosphere of this unique island with visitors. I love Japan — its culture, history, and anime — and I’m always excited to share not just facts, but the soul of this place. On my tours, you will see not only the famous landmarks, but also hidden, fascinating corners of the island that few people know about. With me, you will experience the real Okinawa: taste local cuisine, hear legends, learn traditions, and glimpse the everyday life of the islanders. I speak both English and Japanese, so I can help you feel confident and comfortable in any situation. If you want not just a tour, but a living journey with someone who is truly in love with Japan, I’ll be happy to guide you!

Sara E.

"Chuuganabira" or "Hello" as we say here in Shuri! I'm Sara. My mother is Japanese from Nagasaki and my father is American from Pennsylvania. I spent my formative years between Japan and the U.S. giving me a naturally bicultural outlook and global sensibility. I am a hospitality professional with over 35 years of experience in Japan’s international hotel and tourism industries having held senior positions with world-renowned hotels. I have also worked as a simultaneous interpreter for major Japanese organizations supporting large scale cultural and international events. I relocated from Tokyo to Naha in 2003 because I totally fell in love with this beautiful port city during my travels - the warm friendly people, delicious local food, rich history and culture and most of all the breathtaking turquoise ocean and magnificent blue sky. My passion is making people happy through "omotenashi" - the Japanese art of polite, thoughtful and respectful hospitality. I specialize in Shuri Castle tours. I have insider access to Shuri Castle through my onsite research, a membership in the Shuri Castle Friendship Association and a strong connection with both the castle's staff and the Okinawa Churashima Foundation which operates the castle. I also have deep ties with the Sho royal family giving me unparalleled insights into the history and culture of the Ryukyu Kingdom. I am looking forward to introducing you to the royal, majestic and fascinating world of Shuri!

Sawyer S.

After studying western religion, I flew to Japan to study Buddhism & Shinto. I trained as a monk in the Japanese alps of Fukui prefecture, and learned traditional crafts including washi paper-making, knife making, and tea ceremony. I've visited all 47 prefectures of Japan in my decade in Japan. Now I live in Kyoto, which has some of the grandest temples and shrines in all of Japan. My goal is to find joy through connection and share what I've learned. As I'm new to GoWithGuide and seeking reviews, I'm currently offering discounted rates!

Aya M.

Hi, I’m Aya! A local guide from Osaka, born and raised in a traditional Japanese farmhouse. My family has been growing Mitsuba（japanese traditional vegetable）and seasonal vegetables for generations, and I love sharing the authentic countryside lifestyle with guests from around the world. After studying and working in Australia, I realized how deeply travelers value real connection with local people. That inspired me to create experiences where visitors can feel everyday Japan — not just observe it. In my tours, I introduce guests to the heart of Japanese culture: • Hands-on farm experiences at my family’s fields • Calligraphy in our traditional Japanese home • Tea time on the engawa, surrounded by nature One of the things I cherish most is omotenashi —Japan’s unique spirit of hospitality that values sincerity, care, and putting others before oneself. Through my experiences, I hope to share this quiet richness of Japanese life: the warmth, the thoughtfulness, and the deep sense of connection that locals naturally offer. My style is warm, welcoming, and relaxed. I guide at your pace, answer any questions, and make sure you feel comfortable — like visiting a friend’s home in the countryside. If you’re looking for genuine culture, meaningful moments, and a true local connection, I’d be honored to welcome you. Feel free to message me anytime.

Victoria N.

My name is Victoria, and I’ve been living on Okinawa for 10 years. Would you like to visit non-touristy places known only to locals? I’ll be happy to show them to you! For more than six years, I’ve been guiding tours and sharing the beauty and atmosphere of this unique island with visitors. I love Japan — its culture, history, and anime — and I’m always excited to share not just facts, but the soul of this place. On my tours, you will see not only the famous landmarks, but also hidden, fascinating corners of the island that few people know about. With me, you will experience the real Okinawa: taste local cuisine, hear legends, learn traditions, and glimpse the everyday life of the islanders. I speak both English and Japanese, so I can help you feel confident and comfortable in any situation. If you want not just a tour, but a living journey with someone who is truly in love with Japan, I’ll be happy to guide you!

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Sara E.

"Chuuganabira" or "Hello" as we say here in Shuri! I'm Sara. My mother is Japanese from Nagasaki and my father is American from Pennsylvania. I spent my formative years between Japan and the U.S. giving me a naturally bicultural outlook and global sensibility. I am a hospitality professional with over 35 years of experience in Japan’s international hotel and tourism industries having held senior positions with world-renowned hotels. I have also worked as a simultaneous interpreter for major Japanese organizations supporting large scale cultural and international events. I relocated from Tokyo to Naha in 2003 because I totally fell in love with this beautiful port city during my travels - the warm friendly people, delicious local food, rich history and culture and most of all the breathtaking turquoise ocean and magnificent blue sky. My passion is making people happy through "omotenashi" - the Japanese art of polite, thoughtful and respectful hospitality. I specialize in Shuri Castle tours. I have insider access to Shuri Castle through my onsite research, a membership in the Shuri Castle Friendship Association and a strong connection with both the castle's staff and the Okinawa Churashima Foundation which operates the castle. I also have deep ties with the Sho royal family giving me unparalleled insights into the history and culture of the Ryukyu Kingdom. I am looking forward to introducing you to the royal, majestic and fascinating world of Shuri!

Popular Japan Private Tours

Gunma

7 hrs 30 mins

Haruna Shrine and Ikaho Walking Tour

With its well-proportioned and beautiful appearance, Mount Haruna, one of the representative mountains in Gunma, is known as "Haruna Fuji". This tour visits two major tourist spots located on the hillside of Mount Haruna: Ikaho Hot Spring and Haruna Shrine.

Haruna Shrine and Ikaho Walking Tour

Highlights of Osaka-Dotonbori, Shinsekai, Umeda and Osaka Castle

Explore the best of Osaka in just one day! From the historic Osaka Castle to the retro charm of Shinsekai, taste local street food by Tsutenkaku Tower, and enjoy sweeping city views in Umeda. Feel the energy, savor the flavors, and experience Osaka your way.

Highlights of Osaka-Dotonbori, Shinsekai, Umeda and Osaka Castle

Fukuoka Yatai stall hopping tour

Are you keen to experience something very unique and traditional in Fukuoka? If yes, try delicious local food in Yatai stalls! Yatai, open air food stands are probably the city’s best known symbol and a “must try” during your stay! Traditionally sitting shoulder to shoulder at the counter, these mobile Yatai kitchens have usually 8 to 10 seats and provide you with a cozy unique atmosphere. An experience you will never find anywhere else!

Fukuoka Yatai stall hopping tour

Hiroshima City Tour Highlights (4.5 Hours)

Hiroshima is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. As you explore, don't miss these must-see sites that capture the spirit of the city. This tour includes Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Museum, Atomic Bomb Dome, Shukkeien (a stunning Japanese garden), and Hiroshima Castle known as "Carp Castle". These sites are a glimpse of what Hiroshima has to offer. The tour is flexible, allowing you to tailor the experience by adding destinations that capture your interest.

Hiroshima City Tour Highlights (4.5 Hours)

Haruna Shrine and Ikaho Walking Tour

With its well-proportioned and beautiful appearance, Mount Haruna, one of the representative mountains in Gunma, is known as "Haruna Fuji". This tour visits two major tourist spots located on the hillside of Mount Haruna: Ikaho Hot Spring and Haruna Shrine.

Haruna Shrine and Ikaho Walking Tour

Highlights of Osaka-Dotonbori, Shinsekai, Umeda and Osaka Castle

Explore the best of Osaka in just one day! From the historic Osaka Castle to the retro charm of Shinsekai, taste local street food by Tsutenkaku Tower, and enjoy sweeping city views in Umeda. Feel the energy, savor the flavors, and experience Osaka your way.

Highlights of Osaka-Dotonbori, Shinsekai, Umeda and Osaka Castle

Fukuoka Yatai stall hopping tour

Are you keen to experience something very unique and traditional in Fukuoka? If yes, try delicious local food in Yatai stalls! Yatai, open air food stands are probably the city’s best known symbol and a “must try” during your stay! Traditionally sitting shoulder to shoulder at the counter, these mobile Yatai kitchens have usually 8 to 10 seats and provide you with a cozy unique atmosphere. An experience you will never find anywhere else!

Fukuoka Yatai stall hopping tour

Hiroshima City Tour Highlights (4.5 Hours)

Hiroshima is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. As you explore, don't miss these must-see sites that capture the spirit of the city. This tour includes Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Museum, Atomic Bomb Dome, Shukkeien (a stunning Japanese garden), and Hiroshima Castle known as "Carp Castle". These sites are a glimpse of what Hiroshima has to offer. The tour is flexible, allowing you to tailor the experience by adding destinations that capture your interest.

Hiroshima City Tour Highlights (4.5 Hours)

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New Japan Private Tours

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Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo

Kamakura is where Japan’s spiritual roots quietly remain. Once the political heart of the country, today it is a coastal town where temples, daily life, and nature coexist at a human pace. This 7-hour day trip by train is designed not to rush through sights, but to understand why this place still matters to Japanese people. Your guide walks beside you as a local companion, connecting history, belief, and everyday life into one continuous story.

Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo

Eat, Drink & Experience Tokyo After Dark

Tokyo feels completely different at night. This tour is a relaxed and fun introduction to Tokyo nightlife — from casual izakaya dining, to cozy local bars, and finally to a uniquely Japanese nightlife experience such as a girls bar or cabaret club. You don’t need to worry about language, rules, or choosing the “right” place. Your local guide takes care of everything, explains the culture, and makes sure the night is safe, smooth, and enjoyable.

Eat, Drink & Experience Tokyo After Dark

Tokyo East in a Day

Tokyo’s east side is where everyday life and memory quietly remain. This journey follows the rhythm of older Tokyo — temples still woven into daily routines, neighborhoods shaped by long relationships, and streets where time moves gently. You walk through places that have survived change not by resisting it, but by absorbing it. Your guide walks beside you not as a lecturer, but as someone who knows these streets — letting stories surface naturally through place, pause, and conversation.

Tokyo East in a Day

Tokyo West in a Day

This is not a tour about checking off sights. It’s a journey through the spaces between people and places in West Tokyo. From quiet forests to culture-filled streets, from the pulse of modern Tokyo to neighborhoods where life slows down— you walk not as a tourist, but as a temporary local. Your guide is not a narrator, but a companion. Through conversation, pauses, and shared moments, the day naturally becomes your own Tokyo story.

Tokyo West in a Day

Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo

Kamakura is where Japan’s spiritual roots quietly remain. Once the political heart of the country, today it is a coastal town where temples, daily life, and nature coexist at a human pace. This 7-hour day trip by train is designed not to rush through sights, but to understand why this place still matters to Japanese people. Your guide walks beside you as a local companion, connecting history, belief, and everyday life into one continuous story.

Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo

Eat, Drink & Experience Tokyo After Dark

Tokyo feels completely different at night. This tour is a relaxed and fun introduction to Tokyo nightlife — from casual izakaya dining, to cozy local bars, and finally to a uniquely Japanese nightlife experience such as a girls bar or cabaret club. You don’t need to worry about language, rules, or choosing the “right” place. Your local guide takes care of everything, explains the culture, and makes sure the night is safe, smooth, and enjoyable.

Eat, Drink & Experience Tokyo After Dark

Tokyo East in a Day

Tokyo’s east side is where everyday life and memory quietly remain. This journey follows the rhythm of older Tokyo — temples still woven into daily routines, neighborhoods shaped by long relationships, and streets where time moves gently. You walk through places that have survived change not by resisting it, but by absorbing it. Your guide walks beside you not as a lecturer, but as someone who knows these streets — letting stories surface naturally through place, pause, and conversation.

Tokyo East in a Day

Tokyo West in a Day

This is not a tour about checking off sights. It’s a journey through the spaces between people and places in West Tokyo. From quiet forests to culture-filled streets, from the pulse of modern Tokyo to neighborhoods where life slows down— you walk not as a tourist, but as a temporary local. Your guide is not a narrator, but a companion. Through conversation, pauses, and shared moments, the day naturally becomes your own Tokyo story.

Tokyo West in a Day

Popular Japan Private Cars

Matsue Castle & Izumo Grand Shrine (Matsue City & Izumo City)

Shimane

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Matsue Castle & Izumo Grand Shrine (Matsue City & Izumo City)

This tour helps you make the most of your visit to Shimane. I will plan your tour based on your requests and show you an itinerary in advance, so you will not miss the places you want to go in Shimane. Lunch will also arranged according to your request.

Matsue Castle & Izumo Grand Shrine (Matsue City & Izumo City)

Aoshima and Nichinan Coast half-day tour

We start at one of the greatest attractions in Southern Japan, magnificent Aoshima beach and its historical shrine, plus a chance to visit some local shops and tropical gardens. Then, we drive down the beautiful Nichinan seaside coastal road with several recommended seascape photo ops (Horikiri Pass, Futo no Totoro) along the way, to the mysterious and atmospheric Udo Shrine, built into a cliff rock face above the crashing sea before returning to Miyazaki City.

Aoshima and Nichinan Coast half-day tour

Kochi Highlights Tour with Licensed Guide and Private Car Pick-Up

Explore Kochi’s top highlights in one day with a local licensed guide! Visit Kochi Castle, Chikurinji Temple, and Okawasuji Samurai Residence or Makino Botanical Garden, and enjoy local food at Hirome Market. The tour is flexible—we can visit other spots based on your interests. All photos were taken by me, and I’m happy to take photos of you during the tour and share them afterward as a free souvenir. Perfect for first-time visitors who want a personalized and memorable experience in Kochi.

Kochi Highlights Tour with Licensed Guide and Private Car Pick-Up

Haruna Shrine and "Initial D" related places in Shibukawa

A day trip that travels around Haruna Shrine, Lake Haruna, and "Initial D" (manga)- related places in Shibukawa. This tour also stops at Ikaho Onsen, a renowned hot spring town. *Please note: This tour is suspended from January to mid-March due to winter road conditions and for customer safety.

Haruna Shrine and "Initial D" related places in Shibukawa

Matsue Castle & Izumo Grand Shrine (Matsue City & Izumo City)

This tour helps you make the most of your visit to Shimane. I will plan your tour based on your requests and show you an itinerary in advance, so you will not miss the places you want to go in Shimane. Lunch will also arranged according to your request.

Matsue Castle & Izumo Grand Shrine (Matsue City & Izumo City)

Aoshima and Nichinan Coast half-day tour

We start at one of the greatest attractions in Southern Japan, magnificent Aoshima beach and its historical shrine, plus a chance to visit some local shops and tropical gardens. Then, we drive down the beautiful Nichinan seaside coastal road with several recommended seascape photo ops (Horikiri Pass, Futo no Totoro) along the way, to the mysterious and atmospheric Udo Shrine, built into a cliff rock face above the crashing sea before returning to Miyazaki City.

Aoshima and Nichinan Coast half-day tour

Kochi Highlights Tour with Licensed Guide and Private Car Pick-Up

Explore Kochi’s top highlights in one day with a local licensed guide! Visit Kochi Castle, Chikurinji Temple, and Okawasuji Samurai Residence or Makino Botanical Garden, and enjoy local food at Hirome Market. The tour is flexible—we can visit other spots based on your interests. All photos were taken by me, and I’m happy to take photos of you during the tour and share them afterward as a free souvenir. Perfect for first-time visitors who want a personalized and memorable experience in Kochi.

Kochi Highlights Tour with Licensed Guide and Private Car Pick-Up

Haruna Shrine and "Initial D" related places in Shibukawa

A day trip that travels around Haruna Shrine, Lake Haruna, and "Initial D" (manga)- related places in Shibukawa. This tour also stops at Ikaho Onsen, a renowned hot spring town. *Please note: This tour is suspended from January to mid-March due to winter road conditions and for customer safety.

Haruna Shrine and "Initial D" related places in Shibukawa

Japan Tour Reviews

Simon B.

5 / 5

Jan 14, 2026

Traditional and Modern One-day Tour in Tokyo

Jan 14, 2026

“Amazing tour of Tokyo”

Atsushi is an amazing tour guide and person. His tour was informative, fun and ran extremely smoothly. When we return to Tokyo we will undoubtedly use his expertise and abundant knowledge to further learn more about Tokyo and surrounding areas. Please book Atsushi as a guide and you will have an amazing experience.

Simon B.

5 / 5

Jan 14, 2026

Visit Kamakura, the 13th century capital of Japan!

Jan 14, 2026

“Amazing Tour to Kamakura”

Darren M.

5 / 5

Jan 14, 2026

How about an enjoyable walking in Tokyo?

Jan 14, 2026