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Japan Private Tours & Local Tour Guides
Plan a Trip to Japan with Local Tour Guides, and Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and More.
Popular Japan Tour Destinations
Popular Japan Tour Guides
Armando V.
Hi there! I’m Armand. Living in Nagasaki since 2016. I am living the best and most relaxing life on my permaculture homestead in the hills of Nagasaki, where you get the best views in Japan. I love my town. As a dancer and actor I love telling stories too. And there a so many great stories to share about all the interesting people that once dwelled in this adventurous town full of historical intrigues. Want to experience the rich Nagasaki culture? Eat the freshest fish of Japan? Make the most beautiful photos of hidden treasures and landscapes? Come and explore the town together with me. I’ve made it my mission to get to know everything there is to know about this place.
Sini T.
Hello, 我姓鄧，英文名叫Tiffany。來日本讀書到結婚工作20多年的澳門人。現在是日本九州的中文導游(Chinese / Cantonese tour guide)。除了日語和廣東話之外,國語（普通話）流利,以及日常英文溝通都沒問題,所以我的客人大多來自香港,澳門,台灣,國內,還有馬來西亞,新加坡,還有美加華人等國籍非常多元化。由於我在日本的大學讀完研究生以後工作了差不多十年中，曾經從事過鹿兒島國際交流協會，鹿兒島觀光連盟（相當於官方旅游局）和主持過本地電視台（KYT）介紹旅游和美食的節目。所以對於九州，特別是鹿兒島這個地方的風土人情，美食特色的實務和相關專業知識,可能比日本人一點都不遜色呢（笑！） 無論您是幾個小時或者一天的短途旅遊, 或是連續幾天的深度旅遊,我相信可以為您的旅途錦上添花。 我們可以選擇去鹿兒島經典名勝的櫻島火山、仙巌園，指宿泡沙蒸溫泉，霧島的高千穗牧場親親大自然；也可以去體會潛力新景點：去看茶田，試穿和服；看千隻仙鶴在日出日落中飛舞；去霧島泡泥漿溫泉；去離島的火箭基地看火箭發射，衝浪或劃橡皮艇,甚至單車游、自駕游,甚至一起定制路線的自由行等，相信我都能滿足您的願望！數小時、半天、一天，或者跨境的多天游，都可以事前通過溝通爲您私人訂製,保證貼心安排。。。除了鹿兒島,宮崎,熊本,大分,長崎,福岡等九州各地,我都可以與您同行,讓您暢通無阻! 不要猶豫了，快來日本跟我一起領略這個九州淳樸的南方城市的美麗風情吧！ 2019年10月 Tang Tiffany 2023・03 更新
Kazu Y.
*[LIMITED TIME DISCOUNT] I created my profile a few days ago! Hi, I’m Kazuto! Please call me “Kazu”! I was born and raised in Osaka. I’ve been working as a Japanese tutor and sometimes show my students around Osaka. My students sometimes feel stressed in Japan due to the language barrier even though they study Japanese and I’ve decided to become a tour guide in Kansai to help tourists! DO YOU WANT A STRESS-FREE TRIP? I can be your private concierge for your trip. Let me know if you need any help! By the way, I like anime, manga, video games, I’m an Otaku :) There are a lot of “otaku” places in Osaka like “Nintendo Osaka”, “Pokemon Center”, “Shonen-JUMP store”, “Universal Studio Japan” and so on. I want to show impressive Japanese Pop Culture so much!! Japan has limited-time anime, game or manga-collab cafes. You have to book for many of them and I can help you with the booking! Also, I like eating out! I can offer bar-hopping tours, share good ramen restaurants, and so on! I’m looking forward to seeing you! Let’s explore deep Osaka!
Yuichi W.
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!
New Japan Tour Guides
Toshi S.
I'm a Oyama Area Licensed Guide Interpreter. I will guide Oyama area-Kanagawa pref. showing you what common Japanese people were seeing and thinking 200 years ago. I have experienced living and working in United States of America and Canada for about 12 years in total. Also I have traveled South East Asia and Europe many times.
Eri S.
Hello! I’m Eri. I was born and raised in Osaka. After graduating from university, I moved to Tokyo, lived and worked there for about 20 years. I spent 6 years working in export administration and 12 years as an overseas travel insurance claim examiner. I now live in Saitama, the neighboring prefecture to Tokyo, that boasts beautiful shrines, relaxing hot springs, and stunning nature spots. I love both overseas and domestic travel. Exploring new cultures and traditions is one of the highlights of life, bringing great joy. I would like to convey that joy to you, who have respectfully come to explore Japan, a country full of unique traditions, customs, culture, and delicious Washoku (Japanese cuisine). If you have any specific requests, don’t hesitate to let me know so I can tailor the tour to suit your preferences. My husband, Masa, who is a Certified Domestic Travel Services Manager (National License) will be driving during our car tours to Saitama & Okutama. He also loves traveling and has professional experiences as a web director & marketer at a major travel agency in Japan. We are both excited to help you explore the many facets of Japan, particularly in Tokyo and Saitama. We are looking forward to offering unforgettable experiences to you from around the world! <Eri's Credentials> ・CEFR C1 ・TEFL Diploma (The TEFL Academy) ・Completed the Medical Interpretation Training Curriculum organized by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare in 2018 <What Eri Likes> ・Walking both in a city and in beautiful nature ・Exercising at the gym ・Learning new things ・Traveling and exploring ・Onigiri and Dashimaki Tamago (I can't live without steamed white rice) ・Seinfeld, SHOGUN, and Dr. Wendy Suzuki's TED Talk & Books
Hideo M.
I am a national licensed guide - interpreter and was born and raised in Hiroshima and have lived in Hiroshima for over 60 years. I worked as an engine engineering engineer for an automobile company for 42 years. During that period, I worked on the joint engine development program with Ford Motor Company for six years and spent 3 years in Germany and acquired English communication skills. While communicating with people from many countries both work and privately. I also learned the difficulties and joys of communicating with people from different countries. This prompted me to start working as an interpreter-guide after retiring from the automobile company. I think that the best way to know the local culture, food and history is to meet and talk with the locals. That's why I'm here. In my tour, as a descendant of a survivor of the atomic bomb, I talk about my family history. I myself love ramen and okonomiyaki, so I often go around trying delicious okonomiyaki and ramen restaurants. Why don't you join me in trying them?
Midori N.
Hello, welcome to my page! My name is Midori which means GREEN in Japanese. You can call me Midori or Green. I grew up and have lived all my life in Yamanashi Prefecture where Mt. Fuji is and it is only 2 hours bus riding from Tokyo. In my spare time, I hike and play badminton. I also like spending time with my two cats in my free time. I became a National Licensed Tour Guide in 2014, but I started working as a guide mainly in 2023. I worked for an English conversation school in Japan for 23 years and was teaching English and also helping Japanese students to become better English speakers. I realize that teaching and guiding are similar because the essential thing in both is that I could entertain people and I can respond to their requests. When I was in my 20s, I visited many countries. There I had locals or other tourists help me a lot, which made my time unforgettable. Therefore, as a guide, I would really like to assist your trip so that you can have a blast without inconvenience in Japan. In addition, in my tour, I would like to talk about not only how beautiful Mt.Fuji is but also how historical and attractive it is. If you are interested in my tour, please feel free to contact me. You can choose my fixed tour or if you wish, I can customize and make a perfect itinerary based on your requests. Let’s make an awesome trip together at the foot of Mt. Fuji! I am looking forward to seeing you soon.
Popular Japan Private Tours
Full Day Tour Exploring Nagasaki
A highly personalized day tour (6-8h) in which you get to explore the many intriguing ins and outs of Nagasaki's rich culture and history. Visit several of the unique city highlights and many beautiful hidden gems at your own pace. I'll make sure you get to experience the things you like most and the best that Nagasaki has to offer you.
鹿兒島/鹿儿岛一天遊（櫻島活火山，仙巌園，購物）Kagoshima one day tour
行程可以按照客人的需求，或實際天氣情況而適當調整。 鹿兒島市區（你的酒店附近）---櫻島渡輪碼頭---櫻島港碼頭----櫻島游客中心---櫻島Nagisa海濱熔岩公園---泡洗足浴溫泉---湯之平展望臺---世界遺產“仙巌園”--- 天文館通購物街---鹿兒島市（你的酒店附近） 如果遇上雨天, 可以更改到室內參觀鹿兒島水族館(IO world Kagoshima) 也可參觀歷史或美術館。或者增加在有上蓋的購物街中漫遊和購物。
Bar-hopping Night tour
There are many places for nightlife(bar-hopping, street food, etc) in Osaka. I provide variations to suit your needs. So, let me know what you want to do, eat or drink!! ex) yakitori, sushi, takoyaki, sake, plum wine, local bars, etc
World Heritage Site Tour in Shirakawago & Gokayama
Why not visit the old villages with A-shaped houses by World Heritage Bus and get relaxed in the rustic mood of those villages? Those villages were developed in Edo period (during 17-19 century) and registered as one of UNESCO's World Heritage sites in 1995.
New Japan Private Tours
Golden Gai Bar Hopping Tour@Shinjuku,Tokyo
Discover Tokyo's nightlife in Golden Gai, a maze of over 200 tiny, unique bars packed into narrow alleys! I will take you to hidden spots often missed by visitors. There are so many bars in Golden Gai that it is often difficult to know which one to enter. But with me, who knows this place well, I can guide you to the place you are looking for, based on the features of each bar.(Good foods, Good drinks, Good place to meet people, Karaoke etc.)
A Day Trip for Second-Time Visitors: Travel like local in Shibuya area!(Yoyogi park/Hachiman area)
Is this your second visit to Tokyo, and do you want to explore like a local instead of just hitting typical tourist spots? This tour is perfect for you! As a resident, I’m excited to share my favorite hidden gems. Our tour offers an authentic glimpse into Tokyo’s weekend life. I recommend Yoyogi Park and Yoyogi Hachiman, for a deeper look into Shibuya. The Oharai Experience, a ritual to dispel bad luck, provides meaningful engagement with Japanese culture.
Morning Run in Downtown Niigata
Start your day on the right foot with this 2-hour, 10-kilometer jogging tour of downtown Niigata. The route includes temples, shrines, historic places, and scenic sights.
One Day Shinjuku - Harajuku - Shibuya Walking & Talking Tour
Join Eri’s one-day tour through Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Shibuya for a rich Tokyo experience! We will explore Shinjuku’s lively entertainment spots, then dive into Harajuku and Shibuya’s unique fashion and trends. With highlights like Meiji Shrine’s serene grounds, this tour blends modern Tokyo with its rich traditions.
Popular Japan Private Cars
Private Car Tour - Enjoy the authentic castle towns and famous Oumi beef just outside Kyoto
First, while it is early enough, we will drive and hike a little bit on the ancient steps to one of the oldest temples in Kyoto and Shiga called Hyakusaiji. After that, we will explore a castle that has a tower that is one of the five originals remaining in Japan, Hikone Castle. We will enjoy Oumi beef for lunch. Oumi beef is if not better, as good as Kobe beef known as one of the three best beefs in Japan. We will enjoy the scenery in Oumihachiman from the mountain top and the old moat.
Fukuoka airport-Nagasaki round trip,2 Days, Private rental car, History, Local dining, Night view
This is the most attractive plan. You can experience the best tour in the world while listening to your favorite music and movie with Apple Music and Netflix. You can visit the world famous sights of Nagasaki and enjoy the food culture that the world is proud of. And you can close your trip by remembering one of the most beautiful night views in the world, Nagasaki. We will move by private car, so we can secure our private time without being bothered by crowded trains or other people.
Tokyo Night tour by car
This night tour is guided by car. You can enjoy the fantastic night view of the Tokyo Bay Area that can only be seen from a car, as well as the night view of Shibuya, Shinjuku, etc. from the car. In Shinjuku, we will also take you to Golden Gai, where many small old Japanese bars are located. Enjoy the unique look of Golden Gai.
Kyoto Early Bird Highlights with Car Service
Join me on this tour as we explore four of Kyoto's must-see sights, starting early to beat the crowds. You'll enjoy the convenience of transportation between locations, with your knowledgeable guide driving you to each site. This allows you to save valuable time and energy for fully immersing yourself in the beauty and history of each location.
Japan Tour Reviews
“Highly recommended!”
Our guide, Tomoko, was hands down the best guide we’ve ever had. She is knowledgeable, flexible, warm annd fun. Tomoko worked with me well in advance to plan the tour and we ended our time together as friends. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her.
Tomoko H.
(174 reviews)Debbie, thank you for your warm review. Needless to say, I too enjoyed working with you from pre-planning to the day of the tour. I am also honored that you invited me for dinner on the special day:) Best wishes to Tony, Michelle and Mark. I look forward to seeing you again. - Tomoko
“Matsumoto Castle & Town Tour”
We were very fortunate to have Emi as our guide. She was extremely friendly and knowledgeable. We wanted to spend a day in Matsumoto with a focus on Matsumoto Castle. She prepared a itinerary for the day that was gave us plenty of time at the castle and Matsumoto town. Emi was extremely knowledgeable and shared information that only a local would know. She help translate information that was only in Japanese as well as help read inscriptions that were on many actual items. We never felt rushed during the time we spent with her. She was very helpful in communicating with shopkeepers which gave us more insight as to the background of their crafts or foods. One of the highlights was taking us up to the observation deck in the City Hall so we could view the castle grounds from above (we would have never done that on our own). The day we spend with Emi was one of the best days we had during our trip. Even before the tour day, Emi communicated with us giving us updates and answering our questions so we were prepared for our trip to the Nagano area. We highly recommend Emi and would definitely hire her again when we return to the Nagano area.
“Brilliant tour of a place with difficult history. ”
Kazumi was a great guide that allowed our family to have a quick view of Hiroshima and the neighboring islands. Very knowledgeable and flexible with the items we were interested in learning more about. It allowed us to spend the couple following days in Hiroshima with more purpose. Would certainly recommend as a tour of Hiroshima.
Japan Private Tours & Local Tour Guides
Uncover Japan’s secrets and gain travel knowledge with a local private tour guide. Unlock hidden gems, cultural immersion, and an unforgettable journey.
With a tour guide, you can get to the good stuff, like the ethereal Tottori Sand Dunes and quaint Kinosaki Onsen. From enjoying bespoke traditional ryokans, to navigating the busy streets of Osaka, a tailored journey through Japan’s wonders only gets better with a local expert leading the way.
Beyond the big ticket destinations like Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, getting a personalized itinerary transforms a simple tour into lifelong memories. Customized by a local guide, your itinerary can feature lesser known sites like the Shikisai-no-Oka flower fields, where stunning panoramic views of colorful flowers await.
Japan Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth getting a tour guide in Japan?
Yes. Local private tour guides in Japan provide comfort, convenience, information, and organization, especially in a culturally and geographically diverse country.
A Japan tour guide enhances your trip by;
- Getting rid of the language barrier. Less than 30% of Japan’s population speaks English. Touring the country with a multilingual guide removes awkward interactions and creates a sense of comfort and ease.
- Saving your time. Once you've picked your destinations, your guide organizes the logistics, focusing on efficiency by booking venues, securing tickets, and making any necessary reservations, leaving you to relax and spend time seeing the Land of the Rising Sun.
- Providing a rich knowledge pool. Walking around the country with a guide ingrained in local culture, history, and knowledge is a treasure that gives you value for your money. You might even encounter a few hidden gems.
Still undecided? This article might interest you: Hiring A Guide In Japan: Pros & Cons.
Yes. Local private tour guides in Japan provide comfort, convenience, information, and organization, especially in a culturally and geographically diverse country.
A Japan tour guide enhances your trip by;
- Getting rid of the language barrier. Less than 30% of Japan’s population speaks English. Touring the country with a multilingual guide removes awkward interactions and creates a sense of comfort and ease.
- Saving your time. Once you've picked your destinations, your guide organizes the logistics, focusing on efficiency by booking venues, securing tickets, and making any necessary reservations, leaving you to relax and spend time seeing the Land of the Rising Sun.
- Providing a rich knowledge pool. Walking around the country with a guide ingrained in local culture, history, and knowledge is a treasure that gives you value for your money. You might even encounter a few hidden gems.
Still undecided? This article might interest you: Hiring A Guide In Japan: Pros & Cons.
What month is best to see Japan?
March to May and September to November are the best times to visit Japan because the weather is warm but not blazing and cool but not freezing.
Of course, March to May is Sakura season, so tourism is high during this time. To escape the crowds, try traveling from December to February. June to August is hot and moist, and May to June is rainy.
Need a full weather breakdown? Check out our Japan Tourism Statistics 2023.
March to May and September to November are the best times to visit Japan because the weather is warm but not blazing and cool but not freezing.
Of course, March to May is Sakura season, so tourism is high during this time. To escape the crowds, try traveling from December to February. June to August is hot and moist, and May to June is rainy.
Need a full weather breakdown? Check out our Japan Tourism Statistics 2023.
How much does a private tour of Japan cost?
Depending on your destination, Japan tour guides can be hired from 98 USD per group for a Kyoto Highlights Tour to upwards of 397 USD per group for a Customized Tokyo Experience. GoWithGuide's prices vary according to perks, venues, experiences, and included services. Head to the Japan Private Tours page to see our range of private tour costs.
Depending on your destination, Japan tour guides can be hired from 98 USD per group for a Kyoto Highlights Tour to upwards of 397 USD per group for a Customized Tokyo Experience. GoWithGuide's prices vary according to perks, venues, experiences, and included services. Head to the Japan Private Tours page to see our range of private tour costs.
Where should I go for the first time in Japan?
Tokyo is the number one choice for first-time travelers to Japan. It combines the best elements from the 4 major islands (Honshu, Hokkaido, Shikoku, and Kyushu) into one melting pot of culture and creativity. With so much variety, you'll find The Meiji Shrine, Shinjuku Gyoen Garden, Ginza Shopping District, and Yomiuriland all in one city.
Tokyo also serves as a base for those who want to travel to nearby destinations like;
- Osaka (2 hrs 22 min via Bullet Train)
- Kyoto (2 hrs 8 min via Bullet Train)
- Fuji Five Lakes ( 2 hrs 5 min via train)
Helpful Article: 5 Relaxing Day Trips From Tokyo You Have To Try
Tokyo is the number one choice for first-time travelers to Japan. It combines the best elements from the 4 major islands (Honshu, Hokkaido, Shikoku, and Kyushu) into one melting pot of culture and creativity. With so much variety, you'll find The Meiji Shrine, Shinjuku Gyoen Garden, Ginza Shopping District, and Yomiuriland all in one city.
Tokyo also serves as a base for those who want to travel to nearby destinations like;
- Osaka (2 hrs 22 min via Bullet Train)
- Kyoto (2 hrs 8 min via Bullet Train)
- Fuji Five Lakes ( 2 hrs 5 min via train)
Helpful Article: 5 Relaxing Day Trips From Tokyo You Have To Try
What I wish I knew before going to Japan?
- English is a bigger barrier than expected, especially if you plan on traveling to rural areas. A guide is a great way to practice small phrases and understand pronunciation.
- A JR (Japan Rail) pass comes in handy, so get one at the airport. Japan's public transport system is one of the best in the world, and a preloaded card will cut so much time while keeping you connected to the vast rail grid.
- The vending machines are as iconic as you think they are. Try as many as you possibly can.
- Walking while eating/drinking is rude. It also promotes littering, so take the time to pause and eat.
- English is a bigger barrier than expected, especially if you plan on traveling to rural areas. A guide is a great way to practice small phrases and understand pronunciation.
- A JR (Japan Rail) pass comes in handy, so get one at the airport. Japan's public transport system is one of the best in the world, and a preloaded card will cut so much time while keeping you connected to the vast rail grid.
- The vending machines are as iconic as you think they are. Try as many as you possibly can.
- Walking while eating/drinking is rude. It also promotes littering, so take the time to pause and eat.
What you should and shouldn't do in Japan?
- You should - Book accommodation months in advance. The earlier, the better, especially if you're headed to Japan during the peak season of March to May or September to November.
- You shouldn’t - Litter. EVER. Japan prides itself on recycling and keeping its streets clean. Littering is one of the worst things you can do. Keep your trash on you until you find a trash can.
- You should - Keep cash on hand. Though there are cashless facilities, cash is still king, especially in smaller specialty shops and restaurants.
- You shouldn’t - Stick to big cities. There's more to Japan than the bustling streets of Shinjuku or the savory foods of Osaka. Remote tours along the Japanese countryside are just as magical, so talk to your tour guide about picking a great spot.
- You should - learn some Japanese phrases like;
- Sumimasen - Excuse me
- Arigatou Gozaimasu - Thank you
- Konnichiwa - Hello
Check out our Ultimate Guide to Japan Tourism Statistics for a full breakdown of dos & don'ts, potential destinations, travel trends, weather statistics, and much more.
- You should - Book accommodation months in advance. The earlier, the better, especially if you're headed to Japan during the peak season of March to May or September to November.
- You shouldn’t - Litter. EVER. Japan prides itself on recycling and keeping its streets clean. Littering is one of the worst things you can do. Keep your trash on you until you find a trash can.
- You should - Keep cash on hand. Though there are cashless facilities, cash is still king, especially in smaller specialty shops and restaurants.
- You shouldn’t - Stick to big cities. There's more to Japan than the bustling streets of Shinjuku or the savory foods of Osaka. Remote tours along the Japanese countryside are just as magical, so talk to your tour guide about picking a great spot.
- You should - learn some Japanese phrases like;
- Sumimasen - Excuse me
- Arigatou Gozaimasu - Thank you
- Konnichiwa - Hello
Check out our Ultimate Guide to Japan Tourism Statistics for a full breakdown of dos & don'ts, potential destinations, travel trends, weather statistics, and much more.
Latest Japan Articles
Hiring A Guide In Kyoto: Pros & Cons
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I know what you’re thinking. At least it’s what I think whenever I try to plan my itinerary during any trip. You want to do it all. If you’re trying to organize your Kyoto adventure, you might be wondering, “how can I attend the Miyako Odori Geisha Dance...
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It’s not just you. Planning a tour of Kyoto has gotten hectic over the past few years. The pandemic, tourism booms, and growing global interest keeps your screen flooded with content. Between having enough tabs open to overheat your device, and stressing ...
Hiring A Guide In Tokyo: Pros & Cons
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Traveling to Tokyo is a once in a lifetime experience that should be filled with amazing memories, not worrying about the steep language barrier and the complex transportation system. It’s easy to dream of touring the Sky tree, or savoring seafood in Tsuk...
Tourism In Tokyo Statistics 2024: The Ultimate Tour Guide
Tokyo, Japan
If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo, and it feels as hectic as solo navigating Shibuya crossing (the busiest intersection in the world), we feel you. The world’s largest metropolis (37 million people, and counting) is a complex symphony. At one end, ancien...
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