Shirakawago Private Tours &amp; Local Tour Guides

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Popular Shirakawago Tour Guides

Tetsuji Y.

4.89 / 5

(47 reviews)

Hello everyone. I am Tetsuji. I worked as a public servant in the local government for 35 years. I belonged to the department of Redevelopment, Town-Landscaping, Preserving historical areas and Architectural Guidance. (I have a national 1st-class architect license.) I devoted myself to revitalizing the city by making plans and improving infrastructure for citizens. Gifu is located in central Japan near Nagoya. As just being the crossroads of the West and the East, there are many unique attractions that are hard to discover in hectic big cities like Tokyo or Kyoto. I had a hand in restoring and preserving some of them throughout my career and want to introduce them to tourists from abroad. That’s why I became a guide-interpreter in Gifu. I also enjoyed traveling around the world. My favorite part of each trip was walking around the city and talking with local residents. Traveling has taught me lots of things during my lifetime. Now, I would like to help others have similar experience in Japan. Shall we enjoy fantastic journey in Gifu?

Yuichi W.

4.65 / 5

(20 reviews)

Hello, I'm Yuichi, an English tour guide in Hokuriku region. If you are thinking about traveling to historical places such as Kanazawa, Shirakawa-go and Takayama, I am willing to offer a tour. I can bring you to those popular destinations from my base, Toyama city. These are the examples of my tour: Kanazawa - Shirakawago - Takayama Takaoka - Gokayama - Shirakawago - Takayama Toyama - Tateyama Kurobe Alipne Route - Omachi (Nagano Pref.) During the tour I like to provide simple explanations about Japanese history, and small tips for using the Japanese language on your request. My interests are food, cooking, sake and wine as well as Japanese novels and movies. It would be possible to add those tastes to our tour including a visit to local wineries, movie scenes, etc... Finally, I will do my best to give you a pleasant stay. Looking forward to seeing you in Hokuriku!

Yoshie K.

(44 reviews)

Hi, I am Yoshie. I am a national government licensed English speaking Guide. I used to work for multinational companies and served as an interpreter for several years and travelled around Japan with coworkers. I love plants, nature, travelling as well as finding good places to eat! I am also a communicative person. After having lived in Tokyo for some decades, now I live in my hometown, Fukui where you can have a great experience of Zen buddhism in the head temple of the Zen sect, Eiheiji which was founded in 1244. Fukui Dinosaur Museum is very popular regardless of age. It is one of the world's three largest dinosaurs. Echizen is also well known for Japan's handmade crafts including kitchen knives, washi paper, lacquer wares, Tansu chests and pottery. Seeing craftsmen's work right in front of you makes you excited and impressed. I have been travelling Kanazawa since my high school age so I know well about the town to show you around as well as Shirakawago, a day trip from Kanazawa. I am excited to meet you and coordinate what you are really interested in to make you the happiest memories in Japan. I look forward to guiding you soon!

Yoji K.

(70 reviews)

Hello, I'm Yoji, based in Kanazawa. I spent my formative years in Kanazawa and pursued my master's degree in the United States. Having lived in Washington D.C. and California for six years, I then resided and worked in China and various Southeast Asian countries. My passion lies in exploring new destinations and connecting with people worldwide. Now, it's my turn to extend the same hospitality I've received to you. I specialize in crafting personalized tours tailored to your interests and preferences. If you're a food enthusiast, you've come to the right place. For those seeking to delve into Japan's rich history and culture, I highly recommend joining my full-day tour in Kanazawa. Additionally, I offer tours to Shirakawago and Takayama. Let's embark on an unforgettable journey together.

Tetsuji Y.

4.89 / 5

(47 reviews)

Hello everyone. I am Tetsuji. I worked as a public servant in the local government for 35 years. I belonged to the department of Redevelopment, Town-Landscaping, Preserving historical areas and Architectural Guidance. (I have a national 1st-class architect license.) I devoted myself to revitalizing the city by making plans and improving infrastructure for citizens. Gifu is located in central Japan near Nagoya. As just being the crossroads of the West and the East, there are many unique attractions that are hard to discover in hectic big cities like Tokyo or Kyoto. I had a hand in restoring and preserving some of them throughout my career and want to introduce them to tourists from abroad. That’s why I became a guide-interpreter in Gifu. I also enjoyed traveling around the world. My favorite part of each trip was walking around the city and talking with local residents. Traveling has taught me lots of things during my lifetime. Now, I would like to help others have similar experience in Japan. Shall we enjoy fantastic journey in Gifu?

Yuichi W.

4.65 / 5

(20 reviews)

Hello, I'm Yuichi, an English tour guide in Hokuriku region. If you are thinking about traveling to historical places such as Kanazawa, Shirakawa-go and Takayama, I am willing to offer a tour. I can bring you to those popular destinations from my base, Toyama city. These are the examples of my tour: Kanazawa - Shirakawago - Takayama Takaoka - Gokayama - Shirakawago - Takayama Toyama - Tateyama Kurobe Alipne Route - Omachi (Nagano Pref.) During the tour I like to provide simple explanations about Japanese history, and small tips for using the Japanese language on your request. My interests are food, cooking, sake and wine as well as Japanese novels and movies. It would be possible to add those tastes to our tour including a visit to local wineries, movie scenes, etc... Finally, I will do my best to give you a pleasant stay. Looking forward to seeing you in Hokuriku!

Yoshie K.

(44 reviews)

Hi, I am Yoshie. I am a national government licensed English speaking Guide. I used to work for multinational companies and served as an interpreter for several years and travelled around Japan with coworkers. I love plants, nature, travelling as well as finding good places to eat! I am also a communicative person. After having lived in Tokyo for some decades, now I live in my hometown, Fukui where you can have a great experience of Zen buddhism in the head temple of the Zen sect, Eiheiji which was founded in 1244. Fukui Dinosaur Museum is very popular regardless of age. It is one of the world's three largest dinosaurs. Echizen is also well known for Japan's handmade crafts including kitchen knives, washi paper, lacquer wares, Tansu chests and pottery. Seeing craftsmen's work right in front of you makes you excited and impressed. I have been travelling Kanazawa since my high school age so I know well about the town to show you around as well as Shirakawago, a day trip from Kanazawa. I am excited to meet you and coordinate what you are really interested in to make you the happiest memories in Japan. I look forward to guiding you soon!

Yoji K.

(70 reviews)

View All Shirakawago Tour Guides

Hello, I'm Yoji, based in Kanazawa. I spent my formative years in Kanazawa and pursued my master's degree in the United States. Having lived in Washington D.C. and California for six years, I then resided and worked in China and various Southeast Asian countries. My passion lies in exploring new destinations and connecting with people worldwide. Now, it's my turn to extend the same hospitality I've received to you. I specialize in crafting personalized tours tailored to your interests and preferences. If you're a food enthusiast, you've come to the right place. For those seeking to delve into Japan's rich history and culture, I highly recommend joining my full-day tour in Kanazawa. Additionally, I offer tours to Shirakawago and Takayama. Let's embark on an unforgettable journey together.

New Shirakawago Tour Guides

Jorge S.

(1 reviews)

Originally born in Mexico City, where I spent the first eight years of my life, I grew up in Montreal, Canada, for 22 years. Fascinated by Japanese popular culture and history—I have a minor in Japanese history and am a history buff—I participated in the JET Program Canada, where I was placed in Shirakawa-go for three years as an ALT. Currently, I live in Kanazawa with my Japanese wife and son. As a tour guide in Kanazawa, I specialize in history, hidden gems, culture, shopping (especially Japanese popular culture products), and food. I strive to provide an excellent customer experience. Fluent in English (Native), French (Native), Spanish (Native), and a good grasping of Japanese. I can communicate effectively with a diverse range of guests. Thanks to my North American background and my extensive experience living in Japan, I offer explanations that are easy to understand for Western guests, enriching their understanding of Japan as a vibrant and unique living space. Additionally, I am currently studying to become an official National guide in Japan, further enhancing my expertise and ability to provide exceptional tours.

Kyohei Y.

Hi, Thank you for visiting my page! I am Kyohei. I was born and raised in Takayama, and learned English in Canada. Due to its seclusion from other cities, Takayama has developed a unique culture and history, and its residents have lived here for a long time relying on the region's abundant mountain and natural resources. I am looking forward to sharing the true Hida Takayama that can only be conveyed by a local resident. Thank you!

William P.

4.75 / 5

I was born and raised in the USA, but have lived and worked in Japan for more than half my life. I am a naturalized citizen, and have made my home in Hida Takayama for more than fifteen years now. Pairing the knowledge of a local with the perspective of an outsider, my tours focus on places and insights that nobody else will show you. Feel free to contact me for custom tours at any time of the year. In addition to standard walking tours, I do night-time, food and sake-tasting tours.

Yoko T.

(18 reviews)

Hi! I am Yoko, a friendly regional Licensed Guide Interpreter. This area is my home! This is why I've been sharing beauties of this prefecture with my guests from around the world. This area is great fun: local, historical, culturally important, sometimes mysterious and beautiful! If you are already in love with Japan, then let me personalize your experience here. Visit the best places, venues, spots and locations with me. You will enjoy neighborhood full of hidden local treasures. I am a mother of two girls. I'd be happy to welcome families and I can arrange a tour depending on your situation. Please feel free to ask me any. I also translate and teach English. And I am a host of an Internet radio show. I like meeting people and all these experiences allow me to be good at communicating as a guide. I look forward to exploring this beautiful culture with you. Thank you!

Jorge S.

(1 reviews)

Originally born in Mexico City, where I spent the first eight years of my life, I grew up in Montreal, Canada, for 22 years. Fascinated by Japanese popular culture and history—I have a minor in Japanese history and am a history buff—I participated in the JET Program Canada, where I was placed in Shirakawa-go for three years as an ALT. Currently, I live in Kanazawa with my Japanese wife and son. As a tour guide in Kanazawa, I specialize in history, hidden gems, culture, shopping (especially Japanese popular culture products), and food. I strive to provide an excellent customer experience. Fluent in English (Native), French (Native), Spanish (Native), and a good grasping of Japanese. I can communicate effectively with a diverse range of guests. Thanks to my North American background and my extensive experience living in Japan, I offer explanations that are easy to understand for Western guests, enriching their understanding of Japan as a vibrant and unique living space. Additionally, I am currently studying to become an official National guide in Japan, further enhancing my expertise and ability to provide exceptional tours.

Kyohei Y.

Hi, Thank you for visiting my page! I am Kyohei. I was born and raised in Takayama, and learned English in Canada. Due to its seclusion from other cities, Takayama has developed a unique culture and history, and its residents have lived here for a long time relying on the region's abundant mountain and natural resources. I am looking forward to sharing the true Hida Takayama that can only be conveyed by a local resident. Thank you!

William P.

4.75 / 5

I was born and raised in the USA, but have lived and worked in Japan for more than half my life. I am a naturalized citizen, and have made my home in Hida Takayama for more than fifteen years now. Pairing the knowledge of a local with the perspective of an outsider, my tours focus on places and insights that nobody else will show you. Feel free to contact me for custom tours at any time of the year. In addition to standard walking tours, I do night-time, food and sake-tasting tours.

Yoko T.

(18 reviews)

View All Shirakawago Tour Guides

Hi! I am Yoko, a friendly regional Licensed Guide Interpreter. This area is my home! This is why I've been sharing beauties of this prefecture with my guests from around the world. This area is great fun: local, historical, culturally important, sometimes mysterious and beautiful! If you are already in love with Japan, then let me personalize your experience here. Visit the best places, venues, spots and locations with me. You will enjoy neighborhood full of hidden local treasures. I am a mother of two girls. I'd be happy to welcome families and I can arrange a tour depending on your situation. Please feel free to ask me any. I also translate and teach English. And I am a host of an Internet radio show. I like meeting people and all these experiences allow me to be good at communicating as a guide. I look forward to exploring this beautiful culture with you. Thank you!

Popular Shirakawago Private Tours

One-day-tour of Shirakawa-go

8 hours

Shirakawa-go is a mountain settlement that is famous for uniquely designed Gassyo-style buildings and registered as one of the World Cultural Heritage sites. In Ogi-machi, over sixty Gassyo-style buildings will welcome visitors. Enjoying the whole landscape of the village from the hill, you will stroll around the village visiting some traditional Gasho-style buildings such as Wada House, Nagase House and Myozenji Temple Museum.

Explore UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go a Former Shirakawa-go School Teacher

6 hours

Join me for an unforgettable day trip from Kanazawa to the historic village of Shirakawa, guided by a former teacher who once taught at the local school. This day tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, culture seekers, and anyone looking to experience the unique charm of Shirakawa through the eyes of someone who has lived and taught in this extraordinary village. Highlights: Personal Insight Guided Village Tour Historical Landmarks Local Cuisine Scenic Beauty

KANAZAWA ITINERARY (A Day Trip From Kanazawa) Shirakawago 4H

4 hours 30 min

If you are staying at a hotel in Kanazawa, why not explore Shirakawa-go (with UNESCO recognition) with a popular guide in a day trip? It is a 4-hour private tour. I can meet you at Shirakawago Bus Terminal and start the tour at eleven. You can take a bus from Kanazawa arriving at Shirakawago at around 10.00 am (Nohi Bus) and return with a bus leaving Shirakawago for Kanazawa at 3.10 pm. (as of January 16, 2023) Lookout point Farm House Museum Lunch Deaibashi Bridge Photo spots

Shirakawago half day tour

3 hours

We are going to explore the world heritage site- Shirakawago together. With my detailed explanation of the history, culture and fun facts about the village, you can understand more about Shirakawago and also in love with this little village.

One-day-tour of Shirakawa-go

8 hours

Shirakawa-go is a mountain settlement that is famous for uniquely designed Gassyo-style buildings and registered as one of the World Cultural Heritage sites. In Ogi-machi, over sixty Gassyo-style buildings will welcome visitors. Enjoying the whole landscape of the village from the hill, you will stroll around the village visiting some traditional Gasho-style buildings such as Wada House, Nagase House and Myozenji Temple Museum.

Explore UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go a Former Shirakawa-go School Teacher

6 hours

Join me for an unforgettable day trip from Kanazawa to the historic village of Shirakawa, guided by a former teacher who once taught at the local school. This day tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, culture seekers, and anyone looking to experience the unique charm of Shirakawa through the eyes of someone who has lived and taught in this extraordinary village. Highlights: Personal Insight Guided Village Tour Historical Landmarks Local Cuisine Scenic Beauty

KANAZAWA ITINERARY (A Day Trip From Kanazawa) Shirakawago 4H

4 hours 30 min

If you are staying at a hotel in Kanazawa, why not explore Shirakawa-go (with UNESCO recognition) with a popular guide in a day trip? It is a 4-hour private tour. I can meet you at Shirakawago Bus Terminal and start the tour at eleven. You can take a bus from Kanazawa arriving at Shirakawago at around 10.00 am (Nohi Bus) and return with a bus leaving Shirakawago for Kanazawa at 3.10 pm. (as of January 16, 2023) Lookout point Farm House Museum Lunch Deaibashi Bridge Photo spots

Shirakawago half day tour

3 hours

We are going to explore the world heritage site- Shirakawago together. With my detailed explanation of the history, culture and fun facts about the village, you can understand more about Shirakawago and also in love with this little village.

Day Trips from Shirakawago

Gifu

Kanazawa

Takayama

Nagoya

Ishikawa

Aichi

Toyama

Gifu

Kanazawa

Takayama

Nagoya

Ishikawa

Aichi

Toyama

Shirakawago Tour Reviews

Thomas S.

5 / 5

May 4, 2025

Shirakawago & Gokayama (Ainokurra) Tour

May 4, 2025

8 hours

Customized

“Excellent guide”

Yoshie is a very knowledgeable, easy to deal with and fun guide. She tailored made both tours according to our interests and wishes. We enjoyed the days a lot with her. Will definitifely book her services again to explore more of Japan with her. Arigato kozaimas

Robert B.

5 / 5

Apr 23, 2025

【PROVATE CAR TOUR】SHIRAKAWAGO & TAKAYAMA

Apr 23, 2025

7 hours 30 min

Customized

“Fantastic Guide - Great Day!”

Jogi communicated extremely well in setting up this tour and then communicating how to meet up with us in the port. The day was perfect for the four of us. Great tour of Shirkagowago and Takayama. Showed us unique places and even helped pick out some unique food items to try. Great conversation in the car and tour about a variety of subjects. He spoke excellent English. I highly recommend Yogi as a tour guide.

Yoji K.

Thank you very much for such a great review and comment. I had a wonderful time with you all yesterday. The conversation in the car was the most fun part to me. I personally had great time with you yesterday. Cherry blossoms in Shirakawago was perfect! Again, thank you for giving me such a great opportunity. Have a wonderful time in the rest of your journey.

Hela R.

5 / 5

Sep 10, 2024

Shirakawago Half-Day Tour from Takayama

Sep 10, 2024