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Japanese Kyoto Tour Guides

Name: Kyoto Private Tour Guides
Brand: GoWithGuide
Rating: 5.0 (5104 reviews)

Japan

Tohru S.

Welcome to Kyoto! My name's Tohru. Please call me Toh-ru or Toh-ru-san. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter. I was born and grew up in Kyoto, so I'm very familiar with many sightseeing spots and attractions in Kyoto. If you would like to enjoy walking around Kyoto in YUKATA or KIMONO, I'll be happy to prepare it for you in advance. Kyoto is a fascinating and picturesque city visited by lots of foreign tourists every year. I can offer you unique experiences in this beautiful city, which can include visits to traditional Japanese gardens, ancient temples and shrines designated as world heritage sites, authentic Japanese cultural experiences such as exploring the traditional townhouse called MACHIYA, the food market called NISHIKI, shopping arcades and fantastic museums. With a flexible approach, I can help you personalize your agenda. When you have a chance to visit Kyoto, please contact me anytime and anywhere! I'll be looking forward to seeing you and spending wonderful time with you. See you soon! Certified as - National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter - Itinerary Control Manager - Kyoto Expert Certification 2nd grade

Japan

Kanae O.

Hello! I am Kanae, a nationally licensed guide. While working full-time as a lecturer at a local university in Kyoto, I have also been guiding for two years. Born and raised in Kyoto, I am excited to share the beauty and culture of my hometown with my customers. Kyoto is an enchanting city, and even as a local, I am continually fascinated by its many charming spots. Whether it's the serene temples, vibrant markets, or hidden gems, there is always something new to explore and appreciate in this wonderful city. Also, since my home is close to Shiga Prefecture, I am very familiar with the area. While Shiga may not be as popular as Kyoto, it offers a wealth of attractions for tourists. From historical sites such as temples and shrines to the stunning natural beauty of Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan, there is much to see and do. I am passionate about promoting Shiga and sharing its unique charm with visitors.

Japan

Robert K.

Hello from the enchanting Kyoto! My name is Robert, I studied Japanology at University and live in Kyoto. I offer professional tours in Nara and Kyoto. Let's visit the beautiful temples, Zen gardens and shrines together, combined with the culinary experiences that these cities have to offer. You will learn a lot about the history and culture of this beautiful country. It is very important to me that my guests experience a relaxing time without any hustle and bustle, that they can enjoy the beauty in peace, and that they find a moment of tranquillity far away from their hectic everyday lives. If I have piqued your interest, please feel free to contact me. We can discuss the tour itinerary together; I will tailor it entirely to your personal wishes. Thank you for taking the time to read my advertisement. I look forward to hearing from you. Best regards from Kyoto, Robert

Japan

Miyu S.

I'm Miyu. I'm from Osaka. I studied abroad US for 4 months. I'm working as a tour guide in Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara for 5years. If you are with kids, old people no problem. My youngest guest is 0 years old. My oldest guest is over 90years old. If you wanna change your plan during the tour. No problem! This is a private tour. I can change the destinations whenever you want. I like history, anime, and games. I like to see many people from all over the world.

Japan

Tatsuya M.

Nice to meet you! My name is Tatsuya. I was born and raised in Osaka. I love traveling the world and communicating with all kinds of people. I also have a caring personality, so I would love to share the charms of Osaka, its people, and its food with people all over the world! I provide sightseeing tours not only in Osaka but also in Kyoto and Nara. I offer transportation services for hotels, cruise ships, and airports as well!

Japan

Fumi U.

I have spent nearly 30 years working in a Government organization, contributing to development projects in Latin America and African countries. During this time, I cultivated strong cross-cultural understanding and effective communication skills. For the past 10 years, I have lived in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Guanajuato, Mexico, where I managed a guesthouse, operated a jewelry workshop, and provided guided tours. Through these experiences, I have developed a deep sense of hospitality and attentiveness, ensuring that visitors have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Leveraging these skills, I am dedicated to sharing the beauty of Japan with international guests and creating unforgettable travel experiences.

Japan

Ana I.

Hello everyone! My name is Ana. I am an experienced tour conductor who guides clients throughout Japan. I am Romanian and have been living in Japan for over 10 years. I am versed in creating customized on-the-budget one-day and half-day tours for solo travelers, families, or groups. Please allow me to show you the natural beauty, traditions, history and amazing food of KYOTO and NARA. Feel free to contact me for a standard package OR a customized trip. I will put my best effort into meeting your needs and creating an amazing journey. WELCOME TO JAPAN!

Japan

Hiroshi Y.

Hello,I am HIROSHI YOKOYAMA. Please call me Hiro, not "hero". I have been lived in kyoto for more than 30years. So, I am very familiar with the city of Kyoto and a unique culture developed in Japan as well. I can offer you not only historic places like Nijo castle, Kinkakuji temple ,Kiyomizu temple etc., but also off the beaten track spots Nijo jinya house or nicknamed "ninjya house" ,Katsura Imperial Villa etc.. I am really looking forward to seeing you .

Japan

Ken Y.

Hello. I‘m Ken. I’m a certified guide for the city of Kyoto. I live just in between Kyoto and Osaka. My hobbies are tennis, swimming, and windsurfing in the summer. Kyoto is a city with over 1,000 years of history and so many attractions that it‘s difficult to see everything in one day. My tour includes highlights of Kyoto's popular spots making the most of your time. However, all of these can be customized based on your requests. I'll suggest spots to see based on your preferences, such as quiet areas away from the crowds. I'd love to work with you to create a plan that will be wonderful memories. I look forward to seeing you!

Japan

Ayumi S.

Academic Knowledge & Global Mindset – Your Local Expert for Culture and Sports! Hi everyone! I’m Ayumi, a local guide based in the Kansai area. I studied Tourism at University, where I explore the deeper historical and cultural backgrounds of Japan's most famous sites. Having traveled to many countries myself, I know exactly what makes a trip unforgettable, authentic local experiences and stress-free environment. Why book with me? Academic Insight: I don’t just show you the sights; I share the "why" behind them, from the architecture of Himeji Castle to the rituals of a tea ceremony. Active & Diverse: Whether you want to go hiking in Kobe, watch a professional rugby match, Baseball game, Soccer game, or find the best hidden yakitori spots, I’ve got you covered. Flexible & Friendly: I understand the needs of international travelers and will help you navigate Japan (including your JR Pass) with ease. Shopping & Sweets Expert: I am a huge fan of shopping! If you need recommendations for Japanese cosmetics or the best local snacks, just ask me. I especially have a "sweet tooth" for Apple Pie and Daifuku (mochi)—I’m always on the hunt for the best ones in town! Let’s go beyond the guidebooks and discover the real Japan together. I look forward to meeting you in Kyoto, Osaka, or Kobe!

Japan

Shohei T.

Hi, I’m Shohei — a professional guitarist, singer, and private guide based in Kyoto! I was born in Japan but grew up in the city called Dublin, Ohio. My family moved there when I was 4yrs old because of my father’s was in the automotive industry. My passion for acoustic guitar led me to Boston, where I studied at Berklee College of Music. Since graduating in 2008, I’ve worked professionally as a musician, performing and teaching around the world and receiving several international awards in the acoustic fingerstyle guitar genre. In 2012, I fulfilled a long-held dream and moved back to Japan. I’ve called Kyoto home ever since. I started working as a guide in 2019, and I quickly discovered how much I enjoy sharing Japan with people from around the world. My passion for guiding was also inspired by the opportunity to accompany internationally renowned guitarists during their tours and workshops in Japan. I especially love exploring Kyoto’s temples and shrines and sharing the stories behind them. Rather than simply explaining what you see, I enjoy discussing how Buddhism, Shinto, and other traditions have shaped Japanese culture and everyday life. I also love Kyoto’s castles, palaces, gardens, traditional neighborhoods, and art. Having grown up in both Japan and the United States, I naturally have perspectives from both sides. I enjoy sharing cultural differences and helping guests understand not only what Japanese people do, but why. Most of all, I love meeting people, sharing stories, and discovering Kyoto together. Whether you want to explore famous landmarks, find hidden gems, dive deeper into Japanese history and culture, or simply enjoy a relaxed day in Kyoto, I’d be happy to show you around. If you don’t see a tour that fits your interests, feel free to message me. I’m always happy to create a private, custom experience for you! I look forward to meeting you and exploring Kyoto together!

Japan

Akira F.

Hello, my name is Akira , and I am a private guide based in Kyoto. I specialize in creating customized tours that are tailored to your interests and travel style. Kyoto is a city rich in history, culture, and hidden beauty, and I would love to share its charm with you. Whether you are interested in famous landmarks like Kiyomizu-dera and Fushimi Inari, exploring peaceful temples and gardens, or discovering local food and traditions, I will design a unique itinerary just for you. My goal is to make your time in Kyoto not only enjoyable, but also meaningful and memorable. I look forward to guiding you and helping you experience Kyoto like a local.

Japan

Yuta I.

Hi, I’m Yuta, a Kyoto-based private guide offering tours in English and German. With 79 five-star reviews, I create relaxed, personalized days that combine must-see highlights, quieter local places, great food, and memorable photos. Hallo, ich bin Yuta, ein privater Reiseführer mit Sitz in Kyoto, der Touren auf Englisch und Deutsch anbietet. Mit 79 Fünf-Sterne-Bewertungen gestalte ich entspannte, maßgeschneiderte Tage, die die wichtigsten Sehenswürdigkeiten, ruhigere lokale Orte, großartiges Essen und unvergessliche Fotos miteinander verbinden. (From now on, I will continue in English for a while.) As a local guide, I know Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara very well. I love showing both the famous highlights and the smaller hidden spots that most visitors don’t get to see. I design custom tours for individuals and groups, whether you’d like to explore Kyoto’s temples and gardens, Osaka’s lively neighborhoods, or Nara’s peaceful parks and friendly deer. Along the way, I share stories, history, and insights to help you experience these places more deeply. I also enjoy taking photos during tours so you’ll have lasting memories of your visit. Most importantly, my goal is to make your time in Japan enjoyable, relaxed, and truly special. If you have questions or would like help planning, please feel free to reach out. I look forward to welcoming you and showing you the beauty of Japan!

Japan

Yoshihisa T.

Hi. My name is Yoshihisa. Call me "Yoshie", please. It means good or O.K. in Japanese. I live in Joyo City, Kyoto Prefecture, located just in between Kyoto and Nara. I was born and raised in Iga, Mie Prefecture. Iga is a birthplace of ninja and a renowned haiku poet, Matsuo Basho. I might be a descendant of ninja. I aim at becoming a linguistic ninja, following a part of Basho's lifestyle with the incorporation of seasonal changes into my tours. In addition to visiting famous temples and shrines, I invite you to lesser-known places of historic interest. Once in a month I go hiking or mountain climbing with some friends mainly in mountains surrounding Kyoto and Nara basins. Recently I have got intrigued by the charms of Buddhist statues, which are manifestations of people's wishes and prayers. I also like izakaya (Japanese-style taverns) hopping, tasting delicious dishes and locally brewed sake at reasonable prices. Especially I like communicating with people from home and abroad, talking face to face. Some of the above-mentioned elements are included in my walking tours. I hope you will discover new aspects of cultural and natural beauty in Kansai area through one of my tours which you could never gain otherwise. One of my favorite phrases that come from Zen Buddhism is Ichigo Ichie or this meeting-but only once in a lifetime. My interpretation goes this way: This place and this moment never cross again. Each and every good encounter, however, lingers on like the sound of a temple bell. Won't you explore a deeper world of Japanese culture in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka with me?

Japan

Jasmine L.

Hi, I’m Jasmine! I am a friendly, multilingual guide based in Kyoto. My tours are perfect for families with children and easy-paced for elderly guests. I offer warm, personal experiences filled with fun stories, local delights, and hidden gems you won’t find in guidebooks. Let’s explore Kyoto together!

Japan

Takashi M.

Hi, my name is Takashi!! When I go abroad, I think that how nice it would be to have a friend there and hang out together. I want you to feel like you have a friend in Osaka and we can go around and explore. I was born and grew up in Japan. And I speak English, Spanish and Japanese. I can be the perfect guide for you!! I can guide you in any city in Japan, just let me know where you wanna go :)

Japan

Jose david V.

Hello there! I am hoping you're having a great day!! My name is Jose, born and raised in Spain (Barcelona) and I have been living in Japan for the last 10 years, first it was Hiroshima that I called home, for the past few years it has been Kyoto. I have a wide knowledge of japanese culture, it's social life and it's manners, as well as the most impressive monuments, streets, parks and temples. I love the city of Kyoto and all of the wonders it has to offer to the people whom decide to visit it, from the Fushimi Inari temple to the Nijo Castle. It is a surprising city with combines the best of modern day activities with the reminiscence of old Japan. I would like to share my experience in Japan with you, so you have the greatest experience possible.

Japan

Yuka M.

Hello! I'm Yuka. I was born and raised in Kyoto through and through. I know Kyoto inside and out. I am a Kyoto City Certified Interpreter Guide. I want visitors to truly experience and understand the city where I was born and raised. With many years in customer service, I take pride in my communication skills and hospitality. Having studied in U.S.,I enjoy cultural exchanges and connecting with people from different backgrounds. I also love sharing Japanese cuisine-how to make it and the culture behind it-so I can guide you through Kyoto's groumet scene in depth. Come and enojoy Kyoto through the eyes of a local!

Japan

Michiko N.

Hello, and thank you for visiting my page! I’m Michiko, a local guide who was born and raised in Kyoto. I love meeting people from around the world, sharing the spirit of Japanese hospitality, and creating fun experiences together! I once went to the UK to watch and learn musicals, and more recently, I spent a year living in Thailand. These experiences deepened my love for art, culture, and people. Besides guiding, I also work in theater and performance art, creating unique performances in shop windows. One of the reasons I started working as a guide was to help fund my artistic projects. Let’s explore Kyoto together and discover its heart — the beauty, the people, and the stories that make it special. With BIG LOVE! Michiko

Japan

Noriko Y.

National licensed English tour guide (born in 1977). Main job is freelance book editor and writer based on Kyoto. Utilizing various past works and articles from historic spots, off the beaten track, traditional crafts, contemporary arts to hip restaurants, I offer unique and interesting tour. Since I have the qualification of “International SAKE (rice wine) tasting master”, I can guide to the SAKE brewery and nice SAKE bars. Also I am interested in Ethnology, I will guide you to once a year festivals or rare religious rituals.

Japan

北澤

大家好! 我姓北澤,現住在大阪。我從'80年代開始到2000年代作為國際貿易公司的常駐代表先後在中國大陸的大連，北京，上海與深圳常駐了共7次,時間共達18年,走遍了中國的60個城市與地區。每次均承蒙中國朋友們的格外關照，對此表示衷心的感謝! 關於台灣,也因公出差了20次左右,訪問了台北，基隆,高雄與台中，亦受到了熱情接待,表示衷心的感謝! 至於香港,有過因公出差或私人旅遊，訪問了十多次，也成為很好的回憶。現在，我作為日本政府國土交通省(交通部)觀光廳(旅遊局)批准的口譯導遊開始工作,已經為中國大陸，台灣以及其他國家‧地區的華人提供了優質的導遊服務。希望繼續為中國，台灣,香港,新加坡以及其他國家‧地區的華人遊客們介紹美麗的日本風光,日本美食以及日本文化等。希望各位隨時垂詢。我將竭盡全力為大家提供優質服務, 謝謝大家!

Japan

Nobuko O.

Hello, fellow adventurers! I'm Nobuko, your enthusiastic guide through the captivating cities of Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, and the beautiful Wakayama region, including the awe-inspiring Koya-mountain. Currently, I call Osaka, near Kansai Airport, my home. My journey into cultural exploration began here and has enriched my perspective while deepening my love for Japan. Now, I'm excited to share the wonders of these destinations with you, from the well-known attractions to the hidden gems in Wakayama. Our journey together will encompass not only the well-trodden paths of Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka but also the serene and spiritual experiences that await in Wakayama and the mystical Koya-mountain. Get ready for an adventure that will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper connection to Japan's rich heritage! ★ My schedule is currently closed as a precaution against unauthorized use of itineraries. It will reopen once we agree on the plan. Please text me and specify how you'd like me to assist you in arranging your tour.

Japan

Miki K.

Hi! I am Miki, your tour guide in Kyoto! I'll guide you through not only the famous tourist spots in Kyoto and the Kansai area, but also hidden gems you won't find in guidebooks. Within the tour hours, I can flexibly adjust the schedule, so please feel free to let me know your preferences! I'm looking forward to showing you around!

Japan

Toshi T.

Hello! I’m Toshi, your local insider and itinerary planner in Kansai. I’m new to GoWithGuide, but I’ve spent over 35 years helping people enjoy life’s most meaningful moments in beautiful places. For decades, I was a destination wedding photographer in San Francisco. My clients came for the photos, but they remembered the whole experience: carefully planned journeys around historic City Hall and the city’s hidden viewpoints, with every detail handled so they could relax. From 2016 to 2018, I led the Canon KelbyOne Worldwide Photowalk, guiding groups of up to 20 along scenic San Francisco routes to support the Spring of Hope Kenya Children’s Home. Today, I bring that same warm hospitality, careful planning, and eye for beauty to Osaka, Kyoto, and all of Kansai. Why travel with me? A local’s eye for the special: I’ll take you beyond the landmarks to quiet side streets, the best viewpoints, and the everyday Japanese life most visitors walk past. Smooth, stress-free days: After decades of managing tight schedules for international clients, I’ll handle the trains, the timing, and the details so your day feels relaxed. Tailored to you: Family, couple, or solo, we’ll build the day around your interests and pace, whether that’s history, food, temples, or hidden neighborhoods. A photographer’s instincts: I won’t run a photography lesson, but I always know where the light is best. I’m happy to point out a great spot or take your picture along the way. Early start for photographers: Every tour offers an optional early start for the best morning light at the first stop, potentially before most visitors arrive: Fushimi Inari’s torii gates, Arashiyama’s bamboo grove, or Osaka Castle’s grounds before the tower opens at 9:00. I can’t guarantee empty sites, especially in peak seasons and on weekends and holidays. Let’s skip the crowded, cookie-cutter routes and plan a day in Kansai that shows you Japan’s true soul. Send me a message, and let’s start planning!

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