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Off the Beaten Path Japan Private Tours

Due to high demand, we recommend that you use our date filter to make sure you view tours/guides that are available on your preferred dates.

Tokyo

7 hours

Japanese Gardens and Tokyo Life: Bunkyo City Customized Tour

Bunkyo City is in the heart of central Tokyo, just north of Chiyoda City where the Imperial Palace and Tokyo Station are. The city is Tokyo’s typical residential and academic area where I was born, grew up, and live now. We'll move around the city with a Bunkyo City Community Bus, B-guru ( “beagle”, the mascot character of the bus), and visit Edo-Tokyo Japanese gardens and other calm and pleasant sites. You'll also catch a glimpse of Tokyo citizens’ life during the tour.

Japanese Gardens and Tokyo Life: Bunkyo City Customized Tour

Excursion off the Beaten Track in the Suburbs of Tokyo

We will explore the western suburbs of Tokyo in this tour. If you are looking for something different from the crowded tourist attractions in the central part of Tokyo, you will enjoy exploring the western suburbs of Tokyo. I recommend this tour not to first timers but to repeaters who have been to famous places in Tokyo. You will discover traditional spots in the beautiful environment of the suburbs. Weather permitting, lunch in a local restaurant can be replaced by a picnic lunch in a park.

Excursion off the Beaten Track in the Suburbs of Tokyo

Half-day Kyoto History and Culture Tour

First and foremost, I do not want to provide a typical tour to the standard fair of tourist attractions. As with the majority of visitors to Kyoto, you do not really need a guide to visit such places. Instead, what makes my tour special is that I can show you the unique places of Kyoto with the addition of a historical and cultural background. Lunch at local restaurants, visit temples of the beaten path, go to local shopping arcades for unique products. Enjoy Kyoto without the crowds.

Half-day Kyoto History and Culture Tour

Kobe JR Fukuchiyama Abandoned Line Hike

The Fukuchiyama Abandoned Railway Hike is one of the hiking course that uses the abandoned railway line between Namase Station and Takedao Station on former Japan National Railways Fukuchiyama Line, was closed in 1986. Stretching for about 4.7km along the valley, the remains of the railway including 6 tunnels and 3 bridges from when locomotive once ran remain intact. The trail is easy enough for even beginners to hike and can be completed in about 2-3 hours at an average walking pace.

Kobe JR Fukuchiyama Abandoned Line Hike

Record the Sounds of Shisendō & Enkōji Temples • Sound Walk

Kyoto rewards those who listen. We wander slowly with professional microphones, recording the tranquil peace of gardens, birds, bamboo and Enkōji’s distinctive water feature. I’ll guide you through easy recording techniques, then edit your takes into a polished 'audio postcard' to keep and share. Curious about pace, group size or timing? Message me and we’ll shape it together.

Record the Sounds of Shisendō & Enkōji Temples • Sound Walk

The Hidden Gem of Osaka: Nakazaki-cho & Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street

Discover a hidden side of Osaka that most tourists miss! In this walking tour, we'll explore the nostalgic and artsy neighborhood of Nakazaki-cho, filled with retro cafes and unique vintage shops. Then, we'll stroll through Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street, the longest shopping street in Japan, where you can enjoy authentic local foods and lively market vibes. Finally, we'll visit Osaka Temmangu Shrine, known for its deep history and as the home of the famous Tenjin Festival.

The Hidden Gem of Osaka: Nakazaki-cho & Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street

Manga and Anime Walking Tour

We will visit two manga related facilities, where you can learn more about the process of manga and anime creation, enjoy games, experience voice acting and draw your own manga. Why don't you try good local delicacies and have fun at the traditional local market?

Manga and Anime Walking Tour

The unbeaten tracks of Sumida and Koto Wards (5 hour excursion)

Sumida and Koto area was part of the eastern peripheral of old Edo with many second houses of feudal lords which typically had splendid Japanese gardens. Visit and stroll two gardens that have been retained to this day. Also included are visits to a memorial park related to the Kanto Earthquake of 1923, a historic Buddhist temple related to Sumo and the Fukagawa Edo Museum.

The unbeaten tracks of Sumida and Koto Wards (5 hour excursion)

Walking tour along Takatori-yama mountain

Easy day trip from Tokyo and Yokohama area. If love hiking, it is must-try tour. The name "Takatori-yama" means "Hawk caught mountain" and dates to the Edo period (17th to 19th centuries). Everybody from kids to adults can enjoy fresh air and breath-taking views. The elevation is not so high--about about 330 feet (100 meters) above sea level. Walking in the forest can relaxing. On a clear day, you can see Mt.Fuji and downtown Tokyo and Yokohama.

Walking tour along Takatori-yama mountain

Dive into Local! / Half-Day Nagasaki Walking Tour

Let's explore Nagasaki's local and hidden areas that are unreachable without a local guide! In 3~4 hours, we'll mainly walk around the following 3 areas: 1) Tateyama District: Walking down the slopes of the hillside residential areas in Nagasaki. 2) Suwa Shrine: Discovering the most famous shrine in Nagasaki. 3) Nakadori Shopping Street: Exploring the oldest shopping street in Nagasaki with a 400-year history. *The tour can be flexibly adjusted according to the customer's requests.

Dive into Local! / Half-Day Nagasaki Walking Tour

Miyajima, sacred island walking tour

Miyajima Island, one of the most scenic spots in Japan, has long been regarded as an Island of Gods on the beautiful Seto Inland Sea. It is a romantic and historical island where Itsukushima Shrine, a World Heritage site, is located, along with the Virgin Forest of Mt. Misen, and numerous preserved shrines, temples and historical monuments.

Miyajima, sacred island walking tour

Ueno ーYanaka nostalgic walking Tour

If you love to walk, come and join us as we explore shrines and temples characterized with their blissful and serene atmosphere. Plus, old ruins of townhouses that survived the last war. Enjoy the calmness and that perfect instagram moment.

Ueno ーYanaka nostalgic walking Tour

Kyoto, Arashiyama Expedition Walking Tour

The Kyoto, Arashiyama Expedition is a serene journey through Japan's natural beauty, perfect for all ages. Begin in Takao Forest, exploring hidden waterfalls, ancient temples, and secret shrines. Visit the peaceful Otaji Nembutsuji Temple and wander through the stunning bamboo forest. In summer, enjoy a refreshing dip in the Kyotaki River. This off-the-beaten-path tour offers a peaceful escape to Kyoto’s hidden wonders.

Kyoto, Arashiyama Expedition Walking Tour

Ueno and Yanaka

Ueno is a popular district of Tokyo. The open market of Ameyayokocho, a black market that appeared at the end of the war that sold candy and American products. The first public park in Japan, there are seven museums, a zoo and many temples and shrines. Yanaka is a residential district of Tokyo that escaped the bombs, known for its Machiya-style wooden houses, a large cemetery where the last shogun is buried, Buddhist temples and the Yanaka Ginza shopping street.

Ueno and Yanaka

Tokyo old residential area tour with Tram

Let's explore old residential area of Tokyo by tram. It's never gorgeous or glitter like Shinjuku or Shibuya, but you can see the real and down to earth daily life of Tokyo resident. We can also visit several temples and shrines believed by residents. We buy 1 day free pass of the tram and get off at several places according to your choice. (3 to 4 stations generally)

Tokyo old residential area tour with Tram

Asuka village 1 day tour ~the original landscape of Japan~

Asuka, the ancient political center, has been preserved. Not only historical structure such as Asuka dera, the oldest temple in Japan and "Ishibutai", mysterious huge stone tomb, but also tranquil village landscape must leave deep impression on you. "Tanada", terraced rice field, mountains and streams, old village houses will surely energize busy modern people. In the afternoon, we will explore the beautiful village, experience traditional Japanese natural dyeing,and visit the farmers' market.

Asuka village 1 day tour ~the original landscape of Japan~

Togakushi Pilgrimage Trail Walking Tour

Togakushi area is considered as one of the most important places for the Esoteric Buddhism. Togakushi Kodo is a path which has been used by mountainous ascetics since ancient times. On this tour, we are going to walk the pilgrimage trail and visit the five Togakushi shrines. Let's explore the mysterious culture and abundant nature of Togakushi area!

Togakushi Pilgrimage Trail Walking Tour

Hidden Gems of Tokyo: Unveiling Central Tokyo and Shitamachi

Embark on our "Tokyo Time Traveler Tour," exploring Shimbashi, Tokyo Station, Ochanomizu, Ueno, and Yanaka. Discover Tokyo's evolution, from its humble beginnings to the bustling metropolis it is today. Dive into history, culture, and tradition, uncovering the secrets behind Tokyo's captivating transformation.

Hidden Gems of Tokyo: Unveiling Central Tokyo and Shitamachi

Bespoke Tokyo & Surroundings Tour: Your Custom Itinerary, My Expertise

This exclusive 8-hour tour is crafted to match your personal interests. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant pulse of Tokyo or the peaceful beauty of nearby areas, I’ll design a tailor-made itinerary just for you. As your guide, I’ll handle all the logistics—transport, reservations, and any special requests—so you can simply enjoy your time. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to its serene hidden gems, your perfect day in Japan awaits. Let’s make this day unforgettable! Sample tour below:

Bespoke Tokyo & Surroundings Tour: Your Custom Itinerary, My Expertise

Enchanted Path of Kokoro no Michi - Discover Hidden Gems Around Higashi Chaya Gai

Join me on an unforgettable journey through Kokoro no Michi, a mystical and serene path nestled behind the historic Higashi Chaya Gai in Kanazawa. This tour offers a unique blend of natural beauty, spiritual heritage, and intriguing folklore, perfect for those looking to experience the lesser-known wonders of the city.

Enchanted Path of Kokoro no Michi - Discover Hidden Gems Around Higashi Chaya Gai

Exploring Katsushika - Tokyo's Old Downtown Walking Tour

Planning to escape the crazy and crowded Tokyo for a sense of serenity? Go off the beaten path and enjoy Katsushika! Located on the east end of Tokyo and widely known as Shitamachi - Tokyo's old downtown, Katsushika is full of warmth from the local people and nostalgic feeling of Showa-era of Japan. On this private tour, you will explore Katsushika by visiting popular places such as Shibamata, Taishakuten Temple, Yamamoto-Tei, Yagiri-No-Watashi, the Edo River, and Mizumoto Park.

Exploring Katsushika - Tokyo's Old Downtown Walking Tour

Osaka JR Fukuchiyama Abandoned Line Hike

The Fukuchiyama Abandoned Railway Hike is one of the hiking course that uses the abandoned railway line between Namase Station and Takedao Station on former Japan National Railways Fukuchiyama Line, was closed in 1986. Stretching for about 4.7km along the valley, the remains of the railway including 6 tunnels and 3 bridges from when locomotive once ran remain intact. The trail is easy enough for even beginners to hike and can be completed in about 2-3 hours at an average walking pace.

Osaka JR Fukuchiyama Abandoned Line Hike

Walking tour along an old Kamakura samurai road

Kamakura was the seat of the Bakufu (feudal government) from the 12th century to the 14th century. Many samurai warriors as well as commoners came and went. Kamakura is surrounded by mountains and they would walk across them. Unfortunately, with urbanization, almost all roads are now paved and widened. But you still can walk on the hill side. You can walk an old road between Yokohama (Mutsura) and Kamakura. This road is actually the same as the one used in the 12th century.

Walking tour along an old Kamakura samurai road

Nagasaki Hidden Gems

An off the beaten path exploration of Nagasaki's hidden gems with loads of history captured in many photogenic details and beautiful city scapes to enjoy.

Nagasaki Hidden Gems

More Private Tours in Japan

Off the Beaten Path Japan Private Tours

Japanese Gardens and Tokyo Life: Bunkyo City Customized Tour

Japanese Gardens and Tokyo Life: Bunkyo City Customized Tour

Excursion off the Beaten Track in the Suburbs of Tokyo

Excursion off the Beaten Track in the Suburbs of Tokyo

Half-day Kyoto History and Culture Tour

Half-day Kyoto History and Culture Tour

Kobe JR Fukuchiyama Abandoned Line Hike

Kobe JR Fukuchiyama Abandoned Line Hike

Record the Sounds of Shisendō & Enkōji Temples • Sound Walk

Record the Sounds of Shisendō & Enkōji Temples • Sound Walk

The Hidden Gem of Osaka: Nakazaki-cho & Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street

The Hidden Gem of Osaka: Nakazaki-cho & Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Street

Manga and Anime Walking Tour

We will visit two manga related facilities, where you can learn more about the process of manga and anime creation, enjoy games, experience voice acting and draw your own manga. Why don't you try good local delicacies and have fun at the traditional local market?

Manga and Anime Walking Tour

The unbeaten tracks of Sumida and Koto Wards (5 hour excursion)

The unbeaten tracks of Sumida and Koto Wards (5 hour excursion)

Walking tour along Takatori-yama mountain

Walking tour along Takatori-yama mountain

Dive into Local! / Half-Day Nagasaki Walking Tour

Dive into Local! / Half-Day Nagasaki Walking Tour

Miyajima, sacred island walking tour

Miyajima, sacred island walking tour

Ueno ーYanaka nostalgic walking Tour

If you love to walk, come and join us as we explore shrines and temples characterized with their blissful and serene atmosphere. Plus, old ruins of townhouses that survived the last war. Enjoy the calmness and that perfect instagram moment.

Ueno ーYanaka nostalgic walking Tour

Kyoto, Arashiyama Expedition Walking Tour

Kyoto, Arashiyama Expedition Walking Tour

Ueno and Yanaka

Ueno and Yanaka

Tokyo old residential area tour with Tram

Tokyo old residential area tour with Tram

Asuka village 1 day tour ~the original landscape of Japan~

Asuka village 1 day tour ~the original landscape of Japan~

Togakushi Pilgrimage Trail Walking Tour

Togakushi Pilgrimage Trail Walking Tour

Hidden Gems of Tokyo: Unveiling Central Tokyo and Shitamachi

Hidden Gems of Tokyo: Unveiling Central Tokyo and Shitamachi

Bespoke Tokyo & Surroundings Tour: Your Custom Itinerary, My Expertise

Bespoke Tokyo & Surroundings Tour: Your Custom Itinerary, My Expertise

Enchanted Path of Kokoro no Michi - Discover Hidden Gems Around Higashi Chaya Gai

Enchanted Path of Kokoro no Michi - Discover Hidden Gems Around Higashi Chaya Gai

Exploring Katsushika - Tokyo's Old Downtown Walking Tour

Exploring Katsushika - Tokyo's Old Downtown Walking Tour

Osaka JR Fukuchiyama Abandoned Line Hike

Osaka JR Fukuchiyama Abandoned Line Hike

Walking tour along an old Kamakura samurai road

Walking tour along an old Kamakura samurai road

Nagasaki Hidden Gems

An off the beaten path exploration of Nagasaki's hidden gems with loads of history captured in many photogenic details and beautiful city scapes to enjoy.

Nagasaki Hidden Gems

More Private Tours in Japan

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