Takayama Private Tours &amp; Local Tour Guides

(17 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.

Lucy F.

Hello, everyone! I'm Lucy, and I'm thrilled to share a bit about myself with you. Originally hailing from the picturesque south of France, my life's journey has woven through the landscapes of both France and Germany, primarily within the realm of fashion and costume design. My heart, however, found its home in the enchanting city of Kanazawa when my husband's career led us here in 2019. Since then, this city has not only become my adopted home, but it's a place I've grown to adore. Now, guiding has become a source of immense joy for me. I cherish the opportunity to meet people from all corners of the world, sharing my knowledge about this incredible city and its cultural tapestry. Beyond the guided tours, my free time is often spent in exploration. Whether uncovering hidden gems in the surroundings or immersing myself in the world of pottery, crafts or hiking. I'm here not just to guide but also to connect, learn, and share the beauty I've discovered in Kanazawa. Looking forward to our journeys together!

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!

Norman B.

Good day, everyone! I am Norman. I live in Japan since 2006 and currently residing in Gifu ken. My passions are playing competitive sports and traveling around famous and historical tourist destinations. If you are planning a trip, please do not hesitate to reach out. I’ll be more than happy to assist you especially here in Nagoya, Aichi ken/Gifu ken/Shiga ken and Kyoto. Let’s make your journey unforgettable.

Yuriko S.

4.93 / 5

(42 reviews)

I am Yuriko from Japan. Now I'm an assistant English teacher at junior high school. I also work as a kimono, Japanese traditional costume dresser. If you are interested in kimono, I'll dress you kimono. I have a certificate of a tour guide. I sometimes guide some foreigners around Nagoya castle, Gifu castle and so on. There are so many nice places to visit in Gifu, Nagoya, Kyoto, central Japan!! Let's enjoy Japan sightseeing with wearing kimono with me!! I would like to guide you around central Japan. See you soon!!!^o^

William P.

4.67 / 5

(3 reviews)

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 ten 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. In addition to standard tours, I do night-time tours, nature walks, and sake-tasting tours (with my experience as a brewery worker, I am an expert on all things sake).

Masaki H.

4.92 / 5

(73 reviews)

Hello I’m Mike, a national licensed tour guide from Kyoto. Meeting with people is a gift of God for me. A new encounter inspires and enriches my heart. People sometimes ask me unexpected questions I can’t answer on the spot. It is the moment when I I am frozen. Indeed, guiding people is like a thrilling, adventurous journey. I would like to offer a memorable journey to you. I retired from work as a teacher at senior high school and then started this job in 2015. I’m familiar with Japanese history, culture, religion and architecture. My guide areas are mainly Kyoto, Nara and Osaka. But as a national tour guide, I guide around Hiroshima, Kanazawa, Nagoya, Wakayama, Shirakawago, and Takayama. Feel free to ask me anything.

Tetsuji Y.

4.85 / 5

(33 reviews)

View All Takayama Tour Guides

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?

New Takayama Tour Guides

Karolina Y.

Greetings! My name is Karolina. Originally from Poland, I have been living in Japan for over 5 years and this is my home and my roots now. I am very passionate about sharing my knowledge of Kanazawa, Ishikawa prefecture and our region, because I believe that it’s very much worth a visit. We have many well known historic places and also lots of hidden gems for you to find! I am fascinated by our region’s history and always love to learn more. If you fancy some interesting stories about the past while walking through the old city, be my guest! My other passion is delicious food. If you’re also a Japanese cuisine enthusiast, I will be thrilled to show you around Kanazawa’s tastiest places! Can’t miss a dessert later, am I right? ;) I am looking forward to showing you the best of Kanazawa!

Yoko T.

(15 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!

Mao M.

4.58 / 5

(12 reviews)

Hi! I'm Mao. My home town is Takayama and I like here a lot! I’d like to show you! I love meeting friends, chatting, travel around, play sports, drinking and go to my favorite restaurants. I'll offer more local sightseeing spots,eateries,cafes,bars and leisure facility and also I'm familiar with suburban area. I have an experience of living in BC, Canada and then taught Japanese and culture for kids in a school. After that, I have been working at a hostel in Takayama. I like to meet people and to know new things for me. Feel free to contact me!

Bonnie C.

(3 reviews)

I am a cheerful and energetic lady from Hong Kong. I came to Takayama first as a tourist since 2014 and I fell in love with this region. In spare time, I enjoy exploring traditional events and festivals as well as new restaurants in all these areas. Being a tour conductor in Shirakawago, I am equipped with knowledge and skills in guiding single traveler, family and groups(more than 40 guests). With my fluent English, Chinese and abundant knowledge of this region, I am confident to show you around and tailor-made your desirable schedule. I am looking forward to seeing you.

Yuichi W.

4.50 / 5

(14 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!

Takashi M.

4.71 / 5

(17 reviews)

I was born and brought up in Kanazawa, and live in Kanazawa. So,I know every corner of this town. I am a national licensed tour guide. I started operating tour guide business in 2004 after retired from the local government office. I enjoyed hobbies when I found my spare time. In my twenties and thirties, I walked along many peaks of Northern Japan Alps during the summer mountain season. I travelled many places domestic and abroad. I also enjoyed skiing while I was in my forties and fifties. I have offered tour guides to over 1,000 tourists since I started tour guiding. I explain local history and culture, religion, traditional arts and crafts, and food, etc. I try my best to have customers' satisfaction, and make your tours enjoyable and memorable.Hokuriku Shinkansen bullet trains started operating between Tokyo and Kanazawa on March 14, 2015. It takes about 2 and half hours. You will be able to make one-day tour to Kanazawa from Tokyo. I look forward to having your application.

Fujio N.

4.79 / 5

(14 reviews)

Born and having spent most of my life in Kanazawa, I went into the export business for a major high-speed and automatic loom maker, where I worked for 38 years. When I was a university student in Kyoto, I occasionally worked part time as an English speaking guide. I have guided foreign tourists in Japan especially in my hometown for over 13 years starting soon after my retirement. I joined Kanazawa Good-will Guide Network in 2000 and had been its coordinator for six years from 2002, currently being its senior adviser. Furthermore, I organized Kanazawa Home-visit Association in 2003 that has received over 8,000 visitors from overseas, among whom 1,900 enjoyed experiencing Japanese culture in my own home. In 2012, I established the group for the interpreter guide with my friends and currently I am its coordinator. I am therefore very familiar with historical, cultural and industrial backgrounds of Kanazawa and its surrounding regions. My hobby is golf and my current official golf handicap is 15. Tour Guide Services: Sightseeing tours with explanations of historical and cultural backgrounds of Ishikawa prefecture including Kanazawa city and Noto peninsula, and the surrounding prefectures such as Gifu (with Takayama city and Shirakawa village), Toyama (with Gokayama village) and Fukui (with Eiheiji Zen Temple) Sample Itineraries: Model Plans in Kanazawa: Full-day tour (7~8h) Higashi Chaya (Geisha) District including gold-leaf shops → Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle Park → 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art → Nagamachi Samurai District → Omicho Market Half -day tour (4~5h) Higashi Chaya (Geisha) District including a gold-leaf shop → Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle Park → Nagamachi Samurai District Other popular optional spots are also available: Myoryuji (Ninja) Temple, D. T. Suzuki Museum, Oyama Shrine, Kaga Yuzen Traditional Industrial (silk kimono) Center, Nishida Family Garden (Gyokusen-en), Kazuemachi Chaya (Geisha) District, Ohi Pottery Museum, Kutani Porcelain Kiln, etc. Home-visit (2 hours) Visit a local home to enjoy talking with the host family over tea and to learn the distinctive Japanese lifestyle firsthand, where you might experience traditional culture such as a tea ceremony, flower arrangement, kimono dressing, calligraphy and paper- folding. Model Plans of one-day round trips by highway bus from Kanazawa 1. Noto peninsula (world agricultural heritage site with Wajima Morning Market, Wajima Lacquerware Center, Wajima Kiriko (gigantic festival lantern) Art Museum, Senmaida Terraced Rice Fields, Sojiji Zen Temple, Ganmon and Chirihama Beach Driveway), etc. 2. Takayama city (old merchant town), Shirakawa-go and Gokayama villages (world cultural heritage site with thatched-roof farm houses)

Popular Takayama Private Tours

Casual tour in Takayama

I'll guide main part of Takayama and local place. We'll go old town, morning market, sake breweries, shrines and temples area, also good cafes or eateries. Also I can arrange a plan where you want to go like to see cherry blossom, to walk in country side.

Takayama and Shirakawago in 1 day

9 hours

How about spending 1 day to visit both Takayama and Shirakawago? This tour departs from Takayama and we will spend first 2 hours in Takayama and then depart to Shirakawago for 3.5 hours walking tour. If the group is staying in Kanazawa for the night after the tour, it is not necessary to come back to Takayama.

Multi-Brewery Sake Tasting Tour

Your guide, an experienced brewery worker, will introduce you to sake, and help you to discover the varieties that you like best. A complete explanation of the production process and the various flavor elements will help you to understand what you are tasting. Starting with some standard varieties, we will guide you toward the kinds that you will enjoy the most. There are seven sake breweries to visit, but the full circuit is not for the faint of heart.

ONE DAY - private Tour based on your requests in Takayama

6 hours

My tour is private customized tour in Hida region (Takayama, Shirakawago) based on your requests. We communicate well in advance and make your own plan. Once confirm your reservation, I will give you detailed itinerary. Please feel free to contact with me and let me know the places where would like to visit, your favorite things, interested in.

"HALF DAY"- private Tour based on your requests in Takayama

My tour is private customized tour in Hida region (Takayama, Shirakawago) based on your requests. We communicate well in advance and make your own plan. Once confirm your reservation, I will give you detailed itinerary. Please feel free to contact with me and let me know the places where would like to visit, your favorite things, interested in.

Takayama ( old merchant town ) and Shirakawago ( UNESCO World Heritage site ) tour from Kanazawa

9 hours

In the Edo period, for the first 107 years Takayama was ruled by the fuedal lord Kanamori. For the latter 177 years the Tokugawa Shogunate directly ruled Takayama. Takayama flourished as a merchant town since the Tokugawa ruling. Old merchant houses remain in Sannomachi district. The latticework windows are painted black Bengara color. Shirakawago villages was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995. A Gassho farmhouse is difined as a thatched farmhouse with big slanted roofs. The name Gassho means the gesture when people bring their hands together in prayer. The shape of the roofs resemble the Gassho style. Most Gassho farmhouses have about 200 years history. There are 60 Gassho farmhouses in Shirakawago village. These houses are still used by owner family for their daily living. In the morning, we visit Shirakawago village. In the afternoon, we visit Takayama city.　

Wondeful one-dayTakayama tour from Nagoya

7 hours

Takayama is located in the north of Gifu, central Japan. It takes about 2 and half hour from Nagoya by highway-bus. While bus riding, you can enjoy beautiful mountainous scenery, especially in winter, the snow-covered landscape from the bus window is wonderful!! Takayama is an old castle town, I am sure you will have a wonderful time while walking through the nostalgic town street!! Takayama also has a lot of high quality craftsmanship, you can experience such a skillful art by yourself!!

Country side tour in Takayama

View All Takayama Private Tours

We will go country side in Takayama.This is a journey to landscape in the original state in Japan.Here is a very local side so you can experience deep Japan.

New Takayama Private Tours

Wonderful half-day experience Takayama tour

5 hours

Takayama has a lot of nature and culture. In this tour, you can experience such a wonderful time of culture and nature in Takayama. At first, I guide you to the only surviving old office building in Japan where has a beautiful Japanese garden. Next, let's enjoy local street morning market for shopping! Then, how about seeing magnificent festival floats? Passing through the old street, why don't you go to the crafts square in order to enjoy making some local products by yourself?

Full Day Private Tour of Takayama

6 hours

You will learn the history of this old castle town as you walk through the streets, observing the architecture and enjoying the scenery. There is more to see than we can cover in one day, so we will tailor the itinerary to your interests.

Night-time Tour of Takayama

At night when the shops have closed is the perfect time to tell some classic Japanese ghost stories and local legends. The second half of the tour will introduce you to some places to eat and drink, and even enjoy some games. Having introduced you to some cozy watering holes, we will leave you to enjoy the rest of your evening.

Private Walking Tour of Downtown Takayama

You learn the history of this old castle town as you walk through the streets, observing the architecture and enjoying the scenery.

Skiing and snowboarding tour

5 hours

Enjoy skiing, snowboarding and playing with snow at the snow park! We have amount of powder snow every year! Whether you are use to snow or not, you would enjoy then! I really like snowboarding, let’s go together! Available month is from December to March.

Popular Takayama Private Cars

Takayama and Shirakawago sightseeing with a private van

8 hours

You can plan to visit several places in Takayama and Shirakawago 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$1,100/ per group

Van transportation M.

4.48 / 5

(153 reviews)

Day Tour between Takayama and Shirakawago with a Private Car

4 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.

Day Tour between Takayama and Shirakawago with a Private Car

4 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.

☆Takayama 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.

☆Takayama 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.

Day Trips from Takayama

Gifu

Nagano

Toyama

Takayama Tour Reviews

David L.

5 / 5

Apr 17, 2024

"HALF DAY"- private Tour based on your requests in Takayama

Apr 17, 2024

“Spring Festival in Takayama”

Keith was a warm and engaging host, showing us the beautiful town of Takayama. We highly recommend him as knowledgeable and about this beautiful region in Japan. As our visit coincided with Spring festival he was able to advise on what to expect during this exciting time.

Kyohei Y.

Dear David, Thank you very much for joining my tour in my hometown of Takayama. I believe you enjoyed the first day of the festival in this beautiful season with lots of cherry blossoms. Hope you are enjoying the rest of the tour in Japan! Arigato!

Mikey P.

5 / 5

Apr 15, 2024

ONE DAY - private Tour based on your requests in Takayama

6 hours

Apr 15, 2024

“The most amazing guide in the most unexpected place!”

While designing our amazing 3 week tour of Japan, we decided to go a bit off the typical path and visit Takayama and the Japanese Alps. Wow, are we glad we did. Amazing scenery and great history in a place that is a bit more laid back. AND, we got to meet the most amazing guide. We were searching for a true Takayama native--not someone coming in from another town and Kyohei (Keith) was the guy. We had such fun. Keith is incredibly kind and knowledgeable about the area. He met us (in his own car) at the Shirakawa-go bus terminal and gave us a wonderful tour there (went way up into one of the houses.) Then we hopped in his car and went hunting for waterfalls and ended up in this incredible snowy onsen. What an experience. Next day we toured the town and he helped arrange a private sake tasting with one of the brewery owners. Everywhere we went--like all through the markets, he seemed to always know someone. That made it super fun. He comes across as pretty serious in his video, but he is actually very enthusiastic, warm and cheery!! Finally, I am somewhat physically challenged. He always was conscious of what I could and could not do and never missed a beat, handling my shortcomings in a compassionate way. He even helped us find this amazing condo rental in town and identified one of the best hida beef restaurants and got us a table for dinner on the spur of the moment! No small feat in a town that has way too few restaurants for the number of visitors. It was sad leaving Takayama. It was a beautiful place and we felt like Keith had become a great friend.

Kyohei Y.

Dear Mr. Mikey and Mr.Brian, Thank you so much for your kind feedback about your experience in my hometown! I'm thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your time with me. It was a pleasure having you, and I hope to welcome you again in the future. I believe you saw cherry blossoms in Tokyo and took some great shots!! See you again!! Arigato!

Alev O.

5 / 5

Apr 9, 2024

Casual tour in Takayama