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.
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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
FROM$237/ per group
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Koichiro Y.
5.00 / 5
(9 reviews)
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Kyoto
4 hours
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
FROM$385/ per group
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Eco H.
5.00 / 5
(8 reviews)
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Tokyo
8 hours
Explore Tokyo Hidden Gems Walking Tour by Trains
Explore hidden gems unknown to tourists and even Japanese who do not live in Tokyo. Old town areas since Edo period such as Sendagi (Nezu shrine) & Ningyocho are hidden jewels,beside the ordinary must see Tokyo site-seeing spots such as Tokyo Tower, Asakusa Senzoji Temple. This tour combines old nostalgic charms with succulent local foods at Ningyocho & Tsukij Outer Market.
Explore Tokyo Hidden Gems Walking Tour by Trains
FROM$121/ per person
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Tan F.
5.00 / 5
(2 reviews)
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Tokyo
8 hours
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
FROM$160/ per group
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Fumi M.
5.00 / 5
(2 reviews)
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Ibaraki
3 hours
Autumn Color Walk in Mt. Tsukuba
Looking for a relaxing break from the crowds? Mt. Tsukuba is a peaceful countryside escape just about 1.5 hours from Tokyo. In autumn, the mountain is full of beautiful fall colors, quiet forests, and historic spots that show a more traditional side of Japan. We’ll enjoy an easy nature walk, visit a local shrine, and take in wide views from the top—without rushing. A perfect day trip for travelers who want to slow down and enjoy a less touristy Japan.
Autumn Color Walk in Mt. Tsukuba
FROM$58/ per person
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Shun K.
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Kobe
3 hours
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
FROM$64/ per person
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Ryuichi I.
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Kyoto
2 hrs 30 mins
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
FROM$128/ per group
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Simon F.
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Kanagawa
5 hours
Odawara Photogenic Instagram-Worthy Tour — A Hidden Gem Near Hakone
Please note that this tour takes place in Odawara, not Hakone. Odawara is a relaxed coastal city and a hidden gem with far fewer tourists than Hakone. We will visit 3–4 photogenic spots; the seaside, retro cafés, the old house, etc (varies by day). Historical places like Odawara Castle (outside only) and shrines are also included. This is mainly a walking tour, with some public transport. The meeting point is Odawara Station, with optional Hakone-Yumoto pickup. Custom itineraries are available.
Odawara Photogenic Instagram-Worthy Tour — A Hidden Gem Near Hakone
FROM$180/ per group
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Yumiko O.
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Kamakura
4 hours
Haunted Kamakura
Being the site of mass suicides, WW2 combat training drills gone wrong, and ancient battlefields, Kamakura is a perfect breeding ground for supernatural occurences and scary stories. Come with me and we'll go and see some of the spookiest sites in Kamakura, along with some of the highlights!
Haunted Kamakura
FROM$77/ per group
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John L.
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Kyoto
8 hours
One day tour of "off the beaten track" in Kyoto
On this tour, you can enjoy the autumn foliage depending on the season. Kyoto is very popular with tourists, so most tourist attractions are usually crowded with people. While that can be lively and fun, some people might occasionally want to visit a less crowded place. This tour is perfect for those people. On this tour, you will spend a full day walking through Sagano, visiting Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple, Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple, Gio-ji Temple, Jojakko-in Temple, and Seiryo-ji Temple.
One day tour of "off the beaten track" in Kyoto
FROM$289/ per group
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Ken Y.
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Osaka
3 hours
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
FROM$128/ per group
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Yuji M.
5.00 / 5
(1 reviews)
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Niigata
3 hrs 30 mins
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
FROM$52/ per group
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Yoshiko K.
5.00 / 5
(13 reviews)
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Tokyo
5 hours
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)
FROM$192/ per group
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Takahiro I.
5.00 / 5
(3 reviews)
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Kamakura
4 hours
Hiking and Bamboo Forests in Kamakura!! 4-Hour Tour With a Historian
Hi, I'm John, and I specialize in informative yet irreverent tours full of fun facts and surprising truths. On this tour, we'll take a hike around Kamakura's ancient mountain trails which are flanked by shrines, graves, statues, and of course gorgeous natural beauty! We will also visit one of Kamakura's most beautiful temples and take in its stunning bamboo forest.
Hiking and Bamboo Forests in Kamakura!! 4-Hour Tour With a Historian
FROM$51/ per group
John L.
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Kanagawa
5 hours
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
FROM$148/ per group
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Erick(eiichi) K.
5.00 / 5
(3 reviews)
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Nagasaki
4 hours
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
FROM$225/ per group
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Shonosuke S.
5.00 / 5
(34 reviews)
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Hiroshima
5 hours
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
FROM$135/ per group
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Kazumi M.
4.99 / 5
(137 reviews)
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Kyoto
6 hours
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
FROM$321/ per group
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Michele S.
5.00 / 5
(11 reviews)
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Tokyo
4 hours
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
FROM$154/ per group
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Mutoh T.
5.00 / 5
(22 reviews)
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Tokyo
4 hours
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
FROM$173/ per group
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Keiko H.
4.95 / 5
(127 reviews)
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Tokyo
6 hours
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
FROM$128/ per group
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Virginie B.
4.98 / 5
(42 reviews)
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Tokyo
5 hours
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
FROM$160/ per group
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Leandra I.
4.97 / 5
(72 reviews)
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Nara
7 hours
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~
FROM$173/ per group
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Michiko T.
4.99 / 5
(82 reviews)
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Tokyo
8 hours
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
FROM$417/ per group
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Nicholas B.