Home
›
Japan

Japan Private Tours & Local Tour Guides

Q: 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.

Q: 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 .

Q: 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.

Q: 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

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

Plan a Trip to Japan with Local Tour Guides, and Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and More.

4.88 / 5

View all 20998 reviews

Tour GuidesGuides

Private ToursTours

Private Car ToursCars

Airport TransfersTransfer

Virtual ToursVirtual

Popular Japan Tour Destinations

Tokyo

Kyoto

Osaka

Hakone

Hiroshima

Kanazawa

Fukuoka

Nara

Tokyo

Kyoto

Osaka

Hakone

Hiroshima

Kanazawa

Fukuoka

Nara

View All Japan Tour Destinations

Popular Japan Tour Guides

Japan

Naoto K.

Hello! Thank you for considering me as your guide. My name is Naoto, and I'm a licensed local guide interpreter. I was born in Kurobe, Toyama and grew up in Toyama and other Hokuriku region, Kanazawa and Takayama before living and working overseas. My global experience in other countries and several decades of life in Tokyo made me realize that the Toyama and Kanazawa area offers the most authentic, worthwhile Japan—the kind international travelers truly desire when visiting Japan. I specialize in helping you go beyond the typical tourist path, immersing you in Toyama, Kanazawa and its surrounding areas to reveal the pristine culture and natural beauty that await in this hidden gem. Whether your interests lie in history, architecture, arts and crafts, lively festivals, unique food culture, or nature watching (including music, manga, anime and pop culture), I've got you covered. I particularly enjoy uncovering local treasures, like a secluded restaurant tucked away in the mountains near a temple. And for those who love the outdoors, I'd be delighted to organize a hiking or fishing trip to showcase Toyama's natural beauty. Since every tour can be customized according to your interests and needs, I will personally help you have a one-of-a-kind experience here in the Toyama and Kanazawa area. Please contact me to start planning your future trip!

Japan

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.

Japan

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 !

Japan

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.

Japan

Naoto K.

Hello! Thank you for considering me as your guide. My name is Naoto, and I'm a licensed local guide interpreter. I was born in Kurobe, Toyama and grew up in Toyama and other Hokuriku region, Kanazawa and Takayama before living and working overseas. My global experience in other countries and several decades of life in Tokyo made me realize that the Toyama and Kanazawa area offers the most authentic, worthwhile Japan—the kind international travelers truly desire when visiting Japan. I specialize in helping you go beyond the typical tourist path, immersing you in Toyama, Kanazawa and its surrounding areas to reveal the pristine culture and natural beauty that await in this hidden gem. Whether your interests lie in history, architecture, arts and crafts, lively festivals, unique food culture, or nature watching (including music, manga, anime and pop culture), I've got you covered. I particularly enjoy uncovering local treasures, like a secluded restaurant tucked away in the mountains near a temple. And for those who love the outdoors, I'd be delighted to organize a hiking or fishing trip to showcase Toyama's natural beauty. Since every tour can be customized according to your interests and needs, I will personally help you have a one-of-a-kind experience here in the Toyama and Kanazawa area. Please contact me to start planning your future trip!

Japan

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.

Japan

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 !

Japan

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.

View All Japan Tour Guides

New Japan Tour Guides

Japan

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!

Japan

Masa M.

My company is a tour operator in the Arashiyama area of Kyoto City. The owner is Masahiko Miyake. Arashiyama is a very attractive town. I was born and raised in Kyoto, and now I live in the Arashiyama area. Therefore, I have more knowledge and confidence about this area than most people. Arashiyama is home to the World Heritage Site Tenryu-ji Temple. This area was a villa district for aristocrats during the Heian period, so it features a beauty where nature and residences are integrated.

Japan

Ki M.

Hi! I’m Ki — your overly excited, always-curious, and sometimes accidentally funny Japan guide. I guide in Kanagawa, Yokohama, and Tokyo. I’m not just a guide — I’m also a photographer and video creator, which means two things: 1. You’ll get great photos of your trip, 2. And I’ll probably say “Wait! The light here is amazing!” at least three times a day. I guide in English, Japanese, and Chinese, so whether you’re asking “Where should we eat?”, “这是什么？”, or “どう行けばいいですか？” — I’ve got you covered! My tours are friendly, relaxed, and full of little surprises. I love showing travelers not only the famous spots, but also the cozy corners and hidden gems that make Japan special. Families, couples, solo travelers… everyone is welcome! I’m naturally optimistic, always smiling, and I truly believe the best part of any trip is the fun we don’t plan. My goal is simple: Make your day in Japan easy, fun, and memorable — with lots of laughter along the way. If you want a cheerful, flexible guide who can translate your cravings into real food, help you navigate the trains, and take great photos of you — I’m here! Let’s explore Japan together — one snack, one photo, and one “Ooh that’s cute!” at a time.

Japan

Maki T.

Hello, my name is Maki. I’m a licensed English-speaking tour guide based in Nagoya. Having lived in Poland, I understand what it feels like to enter a new culture and want to grasp the deeper meaning behind what you see. In my tours, I focus on how Japan’s samurai era continues to influence modern life — from the way people think and work to the sense of order, humility, and attention to detail seen across the country. I also connect these values to Nagoya’s history, craftsmanship, and industry — from the Tokugawa legacy and samurai heritage, to Toyota’s engineering culture and local food traditions such as miso and sake. If you want to understand Japan not only through famous sites, but through the mindset and culture behind them, I would be honored to guide you. I’ll make sure your time here will be unforgettable and full of “wow” moments.

Japan

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!

Japan

Masa M.

My company is a tour operator in the Arashiyama area of Kyoto City. The owner is Masahiko Miyake. Arashiyama is a very attractive town. I was born and raised in Kyoto, and now I live in the Arashiyama area. Therefore, I have more knowledge and confidence about this area than most people. Arashiyama is home to the World Heritage Site Tenryu-ji Temple. This area was a villa district for aristocrats during the Heian period, so it features a beauty where nature and residences are integrated.

Japan

Ki M.

Hi! I’m Ki — your overly excited, always-curious, and sometimes accidentally funny Japan guide. I guide in Kanagawa, Yokohama, and Tokyo. I’m not just a guide — I’m also a photographer and video creator, which means two things: 1. You’ll get great photos of your trip, 2. And I’ll probably say “Wait! The light here is amazing!” at least three times a day. I guide in English, Japanese, and Chinese, so whether you’re asking “Where should we eat?”, “这是什么？”, or “どう行けばいいですか？” — I’ve got you covered! My tours are friendly, relaxed, and full of little surprises. I love showing travelers not only the famous spots, but also the cozy corners and hidden gems that make Japan special. Families, couples, solo travelers… everyone is welcome! I’m naturally optimistic, always smiling, and I truly believe the best part of any trip is the fun we don’t plan. My goal is simple: Make your day in Japan easy, fun, and memorable — with lots of laughter along the way. If you want a cheerful, flexible guide who can translate your cravings into real food, help you navigate the trains, and take great photos of you — I’m here! Let’s explore Japan together — one snack, one photo, and one “Ooh that’s cute!” at a time.

Japan

Maki T.

Hello, my name is Maki. I’m a licensed English-speaking tour guide based in Nagoya. Having lived in Poland, I understand what it feels like to enter a new culture and want to grasp the deeper meaning behind what you see. In my tours, I focus on how Japan’s samurai era continues to influence modern life — from the way people think and work to the sense of order, humility, and attention to detail seen across the country. I also connect these values to Nagoya’s history, craftsmanship, and industry — from the Tokugawa legacy and samurai heritage, to Toyota’s engineering culture and local food traditions such as miso and sake. If you want to understand Japan not only through famous sites, but through the mindset and culture behind them, I would be honored to guide you. I’ll make sure your time here will be unforgettable and full of “wow” moments.

View All Japan Tour Guides

Popular Japan Private Tours

Kanazawa

7 hours

Full Day Kanazawa's Best Loop Bus Tour

Explore Kanazawa's history and culture on this private, 7-hour loop bus tour. Ideal for first-time visitors, the tour covers Omicho Market, the Nagamachi Samurai District, the stunning Kenroku-en Garden, and the charming Higashichaya-gai (Tea House Street). The itinerary is completely customizable.

Full Day Kanazawa's Best Loop Bus Tour

Niigata City one day tour of your choices

Located on the Japan sea side of mainland Honshu, about 2 hours bullet train ride from Tokyo, Niigata city has been flourished as one of the major port towns for centuries. Along with this historical background, Niigata city is now well known for delicious "koshihikari" rice, varieties of tasty sake, fresh products from both land and sea. In this tour, you can choose 3 or 4 places to visit for 7-hour sightseeing tour. We mainly use public transportation networks like Niigata city loopline bus service ( one-day ticket JPY 500 ) and taxi if necessary. The places of choices are as follows: 1. Niigata City Aquarium "Marinepia Nihonkai" Displaying both marine and fresh water fish in the region and aquatic animals. Dolphin shows are performed daily. JPY 1500 Closed from Dec.29-Jan.1, Mar.3,4 2. Pia Bandai Fish and vegatable market with restaurants popular for locals and tourists. 3. "Imayotsukasa" sake brewery There is a guided tour and you can sample tasty sake. 4. The Niigata Saito Villa Built about 100 years ago, this gorgeous villa and Japanese style garden attracts visitors all year round. JPY 300 Closed on Mondays, from Dec.28-Jan.3 5. Minatopia with Former Niigata Customs House There are also Former Daishi Bank building and Niigata City History Museum by the Shinano River. 6. Former Ozawa Family Residence Authentic machiya-style house with beautiful garden from the Meiji Period. JPY 200 Closed on Mondays, from Dec.28-Jan.3 7. Honcho Market Located on the bustling Furumachi ( old town ) district, vendors sell all kinds of food with reasonable prices. * vendors are less on Sundays 8. Strolling Furumachi district for 1 hour Furumachi was once known as geigi (geisha) district like Kyoto and there are many restaurants, temples, old and new buildings in this area. * you can combine this choice with the Saito Villa or/and the Ozawa Residence (both in Furumachi district). Please choose places you'd like to visit and email me. Let's have fun in Niigata city!

Niigata City one day tour of your choices

Sado one day tour

There are many interesting and fascinating sightseeing spots in Sado. Sado is worth visiting! I'd like to take you to some of them efficiently in one day. Please pick 4-5 places from following options, Then, I'll make an itinerary according to your preference. If you have other places you'd like to go, please do not hesitate to ask me..

Sado one day tour

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

Full Day Kanazawa's Best Loop Bus Tour

Explore Kanazawa's history and culture on this private, 7-hour loop bus tour. Ideal for first-time visitors, the tour covers Omicho Market, the Nagamachi Samurai District, the stunning Kenroku-en Garden, and the charming Higashichaya-gai (Tea House Street). The itinerary is completely customizable.

Full Day Kanazawa's Best Loop Bus Tour

Niigata City one day tour of your choices

Located on the Japan sea side of mainland Honshu, about 2 hours bullet train ride from Tokyo, Niigata city has been flourished as one of the major port towns for centuries. Along with this historical background, Niigata city is now well known for delicious "koshihikari" rice, varieties of tasty sake, fresh products from both land and sea. In this tour, you can choose 3 or 4 places to visit for 7-hour sightseeing tour. We mainly use public transportation networks like Niigata city loopline bus service ( one-day ticket JPY 500 ) and taxi if necessary. The places of choices are as follows: 1. Niigata City Aquarium "Marinepia Nihonkai" Displaying both marine and fresh water fish in the region and aquatic animals. Dolphin shows are performed daily. JPY 1500 Closed from Dec.29-Jan.1, Mar.3,4 2. Pia Bandai Fish and vegatable market with restaurants popular for locals and tourists. 3. "Imayotsukasa" sake brewery There is a guided tour and you can sample tasty sake. 4. The Niigata Saito Villa Built about 100 years ago, this gorgeous villa and Japanese style garden attracts visitors all year round. JPY 300 Closed on Mondays, from Dec.28-Jan.3 5. Minatopia with Former Niigata Customs House There are also Former Daishi Bank building and Niigata City History Museum by the Shinano River. 6. Former Ozawa Family Residence Authentic machiya-style house with beautiful garden from the Meiji Period. JPY 200 Closed on Mondays, from Dec.28-Jan.3 7. Honcho Market Located on the bustling Furumachi ( old town ) district, vendors sell all kinds of food with reasonable prices. * vendors are less on Sundays 8. Strolling Furumachi district for 1 hour Furumachi was once known as geigi (geisha) district like Kyoto and there are many restaurants, temples, old and new buildings in this area. * you can combine this choice with the Saito Villa or/and the Ozawa Residence (both in Furumachi district). Please choose places you'd like to visit and email me. Let's have fun in Niigata city!

Niigata City one day tour of your choices

Sado one day tour

There are many interesting and fascinating sightseeing spots in Sado. Sado is worth visiting! I'd like to take you to some of them efficiently in one day. Please pick 4-5 places from following options, Then, I'll make an itinerary according to your preference. If you have other places you'd like to go, please do not hesitate to ask me..

Sado one day tour

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

View All Japan Private Tours

New Japan Private Tours

Osaka

4 hours

A Private Osaka Food & Drink Experience Beyond Guidebooks

Osaka is known as Japan’s kitchen, and this experience lets you enjoy it in a way that fits you. Led by a passionate foodie and chef, this tailored food and drink journey is designed around your preferences, with or without alcohol. We visit local spots loved by residents and avoid overly touristy places. Dietary needs such as no pork, no beef, vegetarian, or vegan are respected. Beyond eating, this experience offers a relaxed way to understand Osaka’s food culture through flavor and atmosphere.

A Private Osaka Food & Drink Experience Beyond Guidebooks

Following the Footsteps of the Ryukyu Kings

Through a peaceful Chinese-style garden, explore the lively Kokusai Street, visit the residence of the kings Shuri Castle, and have a lunch in traditional and historical restaurant-museum Sui Dunchi. Includes a visit to a traditional Shinto shrine and a tasting of Okinawa’s unique Buku-buku tea.

Following the Footsteps of the Ryukyu Kings

Kotohira Pilgrimage & Cultural Heritage Tour

Explore the cultural highlights of Kagawa in a single day. We begin with a relaxed walk to Kotohira Shrine (Konpira-san), enjoying its sacred atmosphere and scenic views, followed by a visit to Kanamaruza, Japan’s oldest kabuki theater. Afterward, we head to Shikoku Mura museum, where traditional houses and historic buildings offer a vivid look into Shikoku’s rural past. If you prefer, we can visit Ritsurin Garden instead of Shikoku mura, which shortens the train travel time.

Kotohira Pilgrimage & Cultural Heritage Tour

Tateyama Great Snow Walls (Yuki no Otani) Tour

Join our efficient, 8-hour round trip from Toyama Station, designed specifically for the majestic Tateyama Snow Wall. This itinerary maximizes your time on the mountain, dedicating a generous three hours for the Snow Wall Walk and sightseeing at Murodo. We use various seamless Alpine Route transport methods to reach the 20-meter high snow corridor. This tour is available exclusively during the Snow Wall season (mid-April to late June).

Tateyama Great Snow Walls (Yuki no Otani) Tour

A Private Osaka Food & Drink Experience Beyond Guidebooks

Osaka is known as Japan’s kitchen, and this experience lets you enjoy it in a way that fits you. Led by a passionate foodie and chef, this tailored food and drink journey is designed around your preferences, with or without alcohol. We visit local spots loved by residents and avoid overly touristy places. Dietary needs such as no pork, no beef, vegetarian, or vegan are respected. Beyond eating, this experience offers a relaxed way to understand Osaka’s food culture through flavor and atmosphere.

A Private Osaka Food & Drink Experience Beyond Guidebooks

Following the Footsteps of the Ryukyu Kings

Through a peaceful Chinese-style garden, explore the lively Kokusai Street, visit the residence of the kings Shuri Castle, and have a lunch in traditional and historical restaurant-museum Sui Dunchi. Includes a visit to a traditional Shinto shrine and a tasting of Okinawa’s unique Buku-buku tea.

Following the Footsteps of the Ryukyu Kings

Kotohira Pilgrimage & Cultural Heritage Tour

Explore the cultural highlights of Kagawa in a single day. We begin with a relaxed walk to Kotohira Shrine (Konpira-san), enjoying its sacred atmosphere and scenic views, followed by a visit to Kanamaruza, Japan’s oldest kabuki theater. Afterward, we head to Shikoku Mura museum, where traditional houses and historic buildings offer a vivid look into Shikoku’s rural past. If you prefer, we can visit Ritsurin Garden instead of Shikoku mura, which shortens the train travel time.

Kotohira Pilgrimage & Cultural Heritage Tour

Tateyama Great Snow Walls (Yuki no Otani) Tour

Join our efficient, 8-hour round trip from Toyama Station, designed specifically for the majestic Tateyama Snow Wall. This itinerary maximizes your time on the mountain, dedicating a generous three hours for the Snow Wall Walk and sightseeing at Murodo. We use various seamless Alpine Route transport methods to reach the 20-meter high snow corridor. This tour is available exclusively during the Snow Wall season (mid-April to late June).

Tateyama Great Snow Walls (Yuki no Otani) Tour

View All Japan Private Tours

Popular Japan Private Cars

The Gokayama Grand Tour: UNESCO Sites, Iwana Delights & Washi Art

Toyama

8 hours

The Gokayama Grand Tour: UNESCO Sites, Iwana Delights & Washi Art

A scenic day trip in a convenient car from Toyama Station to Gokayama Ainokura, a UNESCO World Heritage site, focusing on cultural immersion and local cuisine. The trip involves exploring a traditional Japanese village, savoring local dishes, and engaging in a hands-on paper-making experience.

The Gokayama Grand Tour: UNESCO Sites, Iwana Delights & Washi Art

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

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)

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

The Gokayama Grand Tour: UNESCO Sites, Iwana Delights & Washi Art

A scenic day trip in a convenient car from Toyama Station to Gokayama Ainokura, a UNESCO World Heritage site, focusing on cultural immersion and local cuisine. The trip involves exploring a traditional Japanese village, savoring local dishes, and engaging in a hands-on paper-making experience.

The Gokayama Grand Tour: UNESCO Sites, Iwana Delights & Washi Art

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

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)

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

View All Japan Private Cars

Japan Tour Reviews

David W.

5 / 5

Dec 16, 2025

Let's Visit 2 spot and Obanzai restaurant!

Dec 16, 2025

Kyoto

6 hours

Customized

“Fantastic Guide! Well worth the experience!”

Michiko was a fantastic guide during our trip to Kyoto! We enjoyed the tour, and will definitely choose her again the next time we're back. Having Michiko was a huge game-changer to our overall experience. At first, we were hesitant about getting a Tour Guide, as I usually use Google my way around. We're not in the habit of paying for Tour guides, but we're glad we chose Michiko. Kyoto is getting really crowded, and public transport early in the morning can be tricky. Michiko comes with her own car, and it made a huge difference to our day. It was so convenient being driven and not having to worry about how to get there. We could cover more attractions, and she even brought us to a few local spots, which was a real treat! At the attractions, she gave context to the buildings and narrated some key facts that we really appreciated. Michiko is a Kyoto native, and we enjoyed her insights of the city. We always enjoy talking to locals, about how they live/work/play, and the chats with her were refreshing. She has a good command of English, and we never felt awkward throughout the 6 hours. She had lived overseas, and that really helped in relating to us as foreigners. Overall, we're happy with her service, and really recommend engaging her for a day tour (or two!). It's not cheap, but we feel it was well worth the price!

Michelle L.

5 / 5

Dec 16, 2025

Private Kyoto Customizable Day Trip With A Local

Dec 16, 2025

Kyoto

8 hours

“A memorable Kyoto experience ”

My family and I enjoyed our Kyoto tour immensely. We learned so much in just a few hours. Akira shared a wealth of knowledge in such an engaging and interesting way. He is full of energy and enthusiasm, which made us even more eager to learn about Kyoto’s history. I had requested a “less walking” tour, and Akira was very thoughtful in accommodating this - my parents were extremely happy and comfortable throughout the experience. I highly recommend Akira to anyone looking for a local tour guide in Kyoto. You won’t regret it! :)

Akira F.

Thank you very much for your kind words and high praise. We truly had a wonderful day in Kyoto together. We visited historical sites, experienced some of the most beautiful spots in the city, and enjoyed excellent food along the way. I sincerely hope that Kyoto — and the time we spent together — has left you with warm memories and a lasting impression. I very much look forward to welcoming you back to Kyoto again in the future. Thank you once again.

Margie S.

5 / 5

Dec 16, 2025

A one-day tour covering major spots in Tokyo for your first visit

Dec 16, 2025

Tokyo

7 hours

“Whirlwind Tokyo visit”

Ritsuko took us around all around Tokyo for a custom tour. I loved that we could switch the tour up as wee went! We added a visit to the market at the last minute, which was an excellent addition. Ritsuko is very kind and knows Tokyo so well. I feel we got to see so much more of it with a local guide. I especially loved going to a traditional lunch spot that would have been hard to do without her. We were very happy with our personal tour!

Ritsuko K.

Hi Margie and Tom, Thank you so much for your lovely review. Since we all share a love of good food, I was really happy that even on a whirlwind day, I could take you to one of my favorite lunch spots and depachika food halls, and even happier to hear that you enjoyed them. I hope you continued to enjoy great food and sightseeing in Hakone and later on your food tour in Shinjuku. Tokyo still has so many hidden gems I didn’t get the chance to show you this time, so I truly hope you’ll come back again—next time with your daughter as well.