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Kyoto Tour Guides - page 4

Japan

Tatsuhiro N.

It took me some 20 years to be qualified for this job and I feel honored for being able to help tourists from abroad understand our nation and culture. Japan is a beautiful country with a long history, tradition and rich cultural heritages, having various features in each of the four distinct seasons. Although there are now many visitors from abroad, mainly from Asian countries, they are mostly interested in shopping taking advantage of cheaper yen rather than understanding our people and culture. Kyoto and Nara are the two cities best known by foreign tourists, but not all the aspects of Japanese culture are concentrated there. If you visit the countryside other than these two cities, you will never fail to see the beautiful natural surroundings and people who will warmly welcome you. I wish to work as the bridge between Japanese people and tourists from all over the world.

Japan

Eric T.

Hallow ! This is Eric. I was born in Kyoto, and I have been living in Kyoto. I am sure that Kyoto is one of the best city for sightseeing and living. I wish if I can introduce some nice places for you by walking around city streets. Also, in suburbs, there are a lot of nice sightseeing places such as Bamboo forest, Monkey park, Fushimi shrine, Zen practice temples and so on. Let's enjoy Kyoto town and Kyoto food.with me.

Japan

Maricel E.

Hello, my name is Maricel. I'm from the Philippines and I've been living in Kyoto Japan for 17 years now. I am an experienced Kyoto tour guide with a deep passion for showcasing the city’s rich cultural heritage and history and landmarks. I am dedicated to providing engaging and informative guided tours tailored to the interests and preferences of each visitor. Committed to creating unforgettable experiences that capture the essence of Kyoto’s tranquility and beauty, I am looking forward to guiding you while you are here.

Japan

Aya N.

Hello! This is Aya, born and raised in Hokkaido and now based in Osaka. I am passionate about food, history, and traditions, and I enjoy sharing Japan’s hidden sides through both local insight and a global perspective. Having lived in 6 cities in three countries (Japan, the US, and Canada) and bring an international background that helps me connect with guests from all over the world. My tours are tailored to your interests, preferences, and cultural background whether that means exploring Osaka’s food scene, uncovering historical sites, or enjoying authentic everyday experiences. P.S. I've lived in Hokkaido, Vancouver, Upstate New York, New York City, Tokyo, and Osaka

Japan

Nicolas I.

Hello, my name is Nicolas. I’m originally from Argentina and have been living in Japan for the past eight years, proudly calling Osaka my home. Being married to a Japanese wife has given me a strong personal connection to the culture and a deeper understanding of everyday life here, far beyond what most visitors get to see. Tourism has always been my passion and profession, and I have spent these years working in the tour industry, helping travelers discover Japan in a meaningful and enjoyable way. I love sharing not only the famous landmarks, but also the small details, stories, and local experiences that make this country so special. My goal is to make every tour feel relaxed, authentic, and memorable—like exploring Japan with a knowledgeable friend who truly loves living here. I look forward to welcoming you and showing you this amazing place I now call home.

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

Toshiyo O.

I was born and raised in Kyoto.Kyoto has a lot of things to see and experience. Kyoto is an ancient city with a lot of world heritage. I am happy to show you both traditonal aspects of Japan and modern things. I use public transportation and I am good at walking. Also I am very flexible.

Japan

Eco H.

Eco has called Kyoto his home for the last 7 years, and now he hopes to share with you all he has learned of this wonderful city and the surrounding area. Recent graduate with a background in Japanese history and religion, he is now a professor a university in nearby Kobe city. Therefore, if you are particularly interested in learning more about the history and culture of Kyoto he can provide exciting narratives to go along with visiting the delightful sites. Throughout his time in Kyoto he has been working as a guide for numerous organisations, including guiding around Japanese tourists visiting Kyoto, and has provided many with a unique view of the city.

Japan

Tomoya H.

Your Expert Trekking Partner in Japan – From Mt. Fuji to Hidden Local Trails Searching for a trekking guide who knows Japan’s terrain inside out? Look no further! Born in Osaka and raised by nature-loving parents, my passion for the outdoors began early with a youth spent hiking, fishing, camping, and skiing. As a JMGA-certified Trekking Guide (Stage II), I have led diverse groups across Japan—from the rugged peaks of the North to the lush trails of the South—and even on international routes. When I’m not guiding professionally, you’ll find me on my "home turf," the Rokko Mountains, where I explore the trails daily. Whether you're looking for an iconic ascent of Mt. Fuji or a spiritual journey along the Kumano Kodo (Nakahechi & Kohechi), I ensure a safe, seamless, and deeply enriching experience. Custom tours are always welcome. Let’s hit the trail together!

Japan

Hiroki K.

I am a professional government-licensed tour guide. So far, I have provided private and small group tours for more than 800 guests from about 30 countries in Kyoto and Osaka, where I have spent most of my adult life in the two cities. As a result, I have also been appointed as an inbound hospitality instructor by Japan Tourism Agency. So I believe you will have a fantastic experience. Furthermore, I am also a specialist of tourism in general. I have experienced guide coaching, co-author of several inbound guidebooks, and translator of inbound materials. Especially in Kyoto, I have been in charge of a guide coaching program since 2020. Based on these experiences, I am doing a doctoral research in tourism studies (tourism ethics) in a university. So, I can assure you that you will also be in touch with more profound knowledge and wisdom that you cannot get anywhere else.

Japan

Miranda R.

Hello, my name is Miranda. I have lived in Osaka for a couple of years. I also have previous tour guide experience. I am able to take you around Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara. I am also really flexible to any places that you might want to go or places that you want to go shopping. I also know a lot of great places to do food tours, as well. I have also no sign language to better suit some customers that may be deaf, mute, or even H.O.H. I look forward to seeing you and showing you around too many different places. * If you cancel the tour 2 days before or the day of it is a non-refundable tour If you change the tour plans from one prefecture to another. Like for example if you have a tour at Osaka and you decide to change it to either Hyogo or Kyoto the day before or the day of I will charge it extra 10,000 yen. Because a lot of places that are on the tour or that you would like to go to do ask for a reservation months in advance.

Japan

Shogo K.

Hi! I'm Shogo, National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter in English. "Shogo"? Looks a little bit hard to pronounce. So if you are interested in Samurai or Busho, call me "Shogun". (rather humble and hen-pecked at home, though.:) Just a little bit information about myself. I was born and grew up in Himeji, about 50km west of Kobe. When a child I quite often visited world-famous Himeji Castle. So it's like "MY castle." As a student, I lived in Kyoto for four years. I'm a father of three, and have lived in Kobe with my family for over 30 years. So I'm quite familiar with various tourist spots/attractions in Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Himeji, Kobe and the like, all in western Japan. Also I've lived in Lawrence, Kansas, for two years in my 20s as a Jayhawk. Great old memory!:) Here are some of my specialties. First, I can show you around popular historical sites and relics in Kyoto, Nara, Osaka and Himeji. You'll surely feel the depth of Japanese culture by visiting these places. Second, I can offer you special tours of fancy sake breweries in Kobe, Nara and Kyoto. Third, I also guide you around Hiroshima, including magnificent Itsukushima Shrine. My goal/dream as guide interpreter is to help you explore and understand Japan and its culture with warm hospitality or Omotenashi. So please reach out to me any time, 24/7. For your super memorable trip, "Always with YOU" Shogo!:)

Japan

Toichi N.

I'm Toichi. Please call me Ichi, which means No.1 in Japanese. Or you can remember it as 'itchy' Ichi. Born and bred in Osaka, I would like to introduce you to this extremely diverse and interesting city. I have travelled extensively around the globe, and I think one of the greatest pleasure of travelling abroad is meeting people who have different ways of lifestyle and thinking. Japan may not be an easy place for tourists to get to know its people. So, I hope to help you to get closer to meet real Japan and Japanese people. I would like to show you how ordinary Japanese people live and think. And I am happy if you could have a day of unique cultural experiences which you can look back to in ten years' time!

Japan

Kotoyo I.

Hi! My name is Kotoyo — please call me Koto. I’m originally from the countryside of Kyoto, and now I live in Kobe. I have always loved learning English and discovering different cultures. I studied abroad and traveled overseas, and when my international friends visited Japan, I enjoyed showing them around so much that I decided to become a tour guide. I am currently a Japanese language teacher, so I can also teach you real, natural Japanese during our tour. In Kobe, I can take you to local food spots, hidden cafes, cultural places, or any place you would like to visit. I’m happy to customize the tour based on your interests. I love sharing not only famous sightseeing spots but also everyday Japanese life. If you are interested in Japanese culture, food, or even trying small cultural experiences like origami, I would be happy to share that with you too. Let’s explore Japan together in a fun and relaxed way! I’m really looking forward to meeting you!

Japan

Seiya S.

Hello, my name is Seiya, a local tour guide in the Kansai region. I was born and raised in Osaka. Growing up in Osaka made me understand its culture, mindset, and people. I also often travel overseas myself(Recent favourite is India!) and interact with local people, making me understand non-Japanese people's perspective on this country. I am particularly interested in Japanese history, religion, and traditional culture. During my time living in Kyoto, I developed a strong curiosity about temples, shrines, and the ideas behind them, and I enjoy sharing these insights in a clear and easy-to-understand way. I welcome questions and conversations, and I am happy to adjust the tour based on your interests and pace. I am also a photographer, soI would be happy to photograph you with my beloved 35mm film camera. Film photo has a nostalgic warmth, creating timeless photos that stay close to your heart! Looking forward to seeing you soon! I am not available from April to October. Thank you for your understanding.

Japan

Brent S.

My name is Brent. I’m an American living in the beautiful Shiga Prefecture, just next to Kyoto. I’ve been lucky to call Japan my home for the past four years. Now that I’m retired, I’m excited to share my love for this amazing country—especially the peaceful and often-overlooked spots beyond the busy crowds of Kyoto. I love sharing Japan’s food, culture, and hidden gems with visitors. Over the years, I’ve guided friends and family through bustling markets, quiet streets, and secret local spots, helping them experience Japan in a personal and memorable way. Why choose me as your guide? • I’m a passionate foodie who knows the best local restaurants, cafés, and street food stalls—and I love sharing the stories behind them. • I specialize in off-the-beaten-path experiences, so you can see the Japan most tourists never discover. • A former English teacher, I’m friendly, patient, and enjoy explaining things clearly so everyone feels comfortable. • Most importantly, I want you to relax, enjoy every moment, and make lasting memories along the way. My style of guiding: I create a fun, flexible, and relaxed atmosphere where we explore together at your own pace. Whether tasting seasonal delicacies or chatting about daily life in Japan, every moment is designed to be enjoyable, meaningful, and uniquely yours. My motto is: “Let me be your friend along the way.” I can’t wait to welcome you to Japan and help you create an unforgettable journey full of flavors, stories, and memories!

Japan

Tatsuya I.

My name is Tatsuya Ito. I am living in Nagoya city, Aichi, Japan. I am a national licensed guide interpreter (English). I can also speak Chinese (Basic level). I have been guiding Nagoya Castle as a volunteer guide for 6 years. I want to take you to many Japanese beautiful places. I like to travel by train. If you are interested in train travel in Japan, I can introduce nice places to visit with local train.

Japan

Tad T.

Hello everyone, it's Tad! I was born in Osaka, raised up in Kobe, and came back to Osaka for my university and work. I studied clinical psychology in my university. I specialize in children who have developmental disorder such as Down's syndrome, autism, ADHD and I care for the left-behind children whose parents can’t look after them due to their work or private reasons. I used to help them with their homework as a student volunteer. When I was a university student, I went abroad to Australia for the first time in my life, which made me want to know outside world more. I went to see the outside world, which made me get to know the amazing aspects of my own country. I truly see the beauty of Japan and kindness of people. So that after the graduation of my university, I decided to move to Australia with working holiday visa for two years. In Australia, I bought a car and traveled whole around Australia doing labor work. During my time in Australia, I was surprised by the beauty of nature and how wide the world is, and I was helped and well treated by locals. Also I realized that Japan has a very unique and beautiful culture. That experience made me want to share Japanese culture and help you experience Japanese hospitality. I’d like to do my best to make your precious memories in Japan just like how local people in Australia treated me as a part of their family. After returning from Australia, I spent 3 months backpacking around 17 countries of Europe. To tell international guests about Japanese culture, history and hospitality, I became a rickshaw runner in Kyoto Arashiyama. That’s why I became an officially licensed English guide of Kyoto city and decided to live my life as a professional English guide. As I’ve lived in Kobe, Osaka and Kyoto, I’m good at guiding these cities and customizing private tours for FIT (foreign independent travel) guests. Especially I hold a cultural food walk tour which complies with any special dietary restrictions in Osaka’s night out spots. 【Career Summary】 Bilingual professional tourist guide of officially certificated by Kyoto city. Hold 5 years extensive tourism experience working with private sector and by myself. Introducing both history and tradition of Japan to the visitors from Japan and all over the globe (Over 1,500 people). Generally passionate for the arts and people of Japan. 【Qualification】・Officially licensed English guide of Kyoto city (since Sep 28th 2019) hence high knowledge about Japanese culture , history and historic site. ・Excellent communication skills in oral and written Japanese and English. 【Summary of your academic and work history】 2003-2007 Kansai University of Welfare Sciences ・Studying clinical psychology (Especially child psychology) 2007-2010 Working holiday in Australia. ・2 years of overseas experience. 2012-2014 EBISUYA Rickshaw Rikishaw (human powered car) driver in Kyoto, Arashiyama. ・Providing historical guiding and showing beautiful, historical and famous scenes to passengers. ・Hosted 1,372 guests in total. 2014-2018 Working for a company in Osaka ・Sales person in charge of Australian and Southeast Asian market. 2018- Bukkyo University (in Kyoto) ・Studying at a correspondence course of English Language and Anglo-American Literature to get an English teacher’s license of middle and high-school students. 2019- ・Hold Bar hopping activity in Osaka Hosted 120 groups. Review 4.98 (111 reviews) 2019- ・Hold Cooking class activity in my house Hosted 40 groups. Review 5.0 (34 reviews)

Japan

Nao O.

Hello! I'm Nao. I was born and raised in Himeji, which is famous for the Himeji Castle (egret castle). I'm guiding in Kyoto, Osaka, Nara and Hyogo (especially Kobe and Himeji). I'd been in the US for three years attending a university. During the stay I went to the Yellow Stone twice, and visited California. I took a summer French class for a month in Canada, so I speak French a little. I love travelling. I went to many places in Japan. I visited Hokkaido, Okinawa, Hiroshima, Kanazawa, Nikko, Mt. Fuji and so on. I love music ― pops, rock, gospel and classical music. I'm a fan of Beethoven. Some day I'd like to go to Vienna and visit his houses and the forest, where he composed "the Pastoral Symphony". There are lots of attractions in Japan. You can visit shrines, temples, deer park etc. You can enjoy USJ, river cruise, anime museum, Japanese sake, Onsen and of course delicious Japanese dishes. Let's have fun together !

Japan

Masahiko T.

Hello, I'm Masahiko. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter.I was born in Kobe. Now I live in Hirakata city located between Kyoto and Osaka. I am very familiar to Kansai region especially Kyoto and Osaka and I can show you various nice places in this region. Kyoto had been a capital city in Japan and the emperor's residence from 794 until 1868. So there are a lot of historically important places in Kyoto. You must see them. And Osaka is the largest city after Tokyo and it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. There are a lot of attractions in Osaka such as neon lights at night, delicious local food, modern and trendy shopping streets, the amusement parks. I studied Chemical Engineering at a University in Osaka and have worked in Japanese manufacturers. I have been to more than 30 countries as business trips. I had many wonderful experiences at various places all over the world. Over the years, I have came to love travelling and showing beautiful and wonderful Japan to foreigners. I 'd like to share wonderful experiences in Japan with you. And I look forward to seeing you soon!

Japan

Shinichi E.

I have multiple jobs right now. One is a mediator and the other is an English teacher. After working for some life insurance company for about 40 years, I got a job for some Family Court as a mediator and I enjoy helping those who get in trouble. I also teach English for beginners, especially for TOEIC TEST. I love music. When I was in university student, I was a conductor for a male chorus. Since then I have been really into Opera. I don't mean to be pompous, but actually, I'm good at entertaining any guests at any occasion, as I had worked as head of sales, human resources, and branch manager. Almost a decade ago I had lived in Kyoto for 5 years and I have been enthralied by charm and attraction of Kyoto, such as history, culture, cuisine and beauty:as in cherry blossom in Spring, colorful leaves in Autumn and GION festival and so on. I'd like to share my experiences with everyone and guide all of you to Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe.

Japan

Yoshiharu K.

Hi! I'm Yoshiharu. Please call me Yoshi. Yoshi means "good" in Japanese! I'm a good man (^^);;;. I was born in Kyoto but I lived there 3 months. Then my family moved to Osaka and I grew up in Osaka. So I am almost Osakan. When I was young, my hobby was traveling by bicycle. I went cycling around most part of Japan except Shikoku. In my family rule, Shikoku is in bad direction because my grand father died just after his Shikoku pilgrimage. So I want to have a cycling tour not only in Kyoto (coming soon!) but also all part of Japan someday. I am interested in Japanese history. I am a National Certificated Guide. And I have "Kyoto Tourism Culture Certification 3rd grade", "Osaka Expert Certification 3rd grade", "Nara Concierge 2nd grade" and "Karuizawa Web test 3rd grade". So I have expert knowledge about Kyoto, Osaka, Nara and Karuizawa and common knowledge about Kobe. Besides I like gadgets, so I can guide you DenDen town in Osaka. When you have a chance to visit Kyoto or Osaka or other city in this area, please contact me anytime and join my tour! I'll be looking forward to seeing you, spending wonderful time with you.

Japan

Koichi T.

Enjoy not only Guided tour but also Professional photo shoot in Kyoto! "Hi, my name is Koichi. I am a licensed tour guide specializing in Kyoto. I can take memorable picture of you by using my own authentic camera and lens. Photo shoot experience is included in guide fee. I have a great love for Kyoto City, from its major tourist attractions to some of its lesser known, tranquil and peaceful sites. I would be glad to conduct the tour according to your interests and share with you my knowledge of the city's rich history as well as its cultural and seasonal events. Since both my high school and university days were located in Kyoto, I know not only all the city’s shrines and temples but also great local restaurants that serve traditional Japanese cuisine at a reasonable price. As an added bonus, I am an experienced, award winning photographer and I would be happy to take photos of you during the tour with my DSLR camera and then email them to you after the tour. Additionally, I love motorcycle touring as my hobby and I enjoy taking pictures of Kyoto’s beautiful landscape. Therefore, talking about and showing off Kyoto’s scenery with my guests is one of my pleasures as well as explaining the traditional Kyoto culture. My native city of Otsu is famous for Lake Biwa which is located just 10 minutes train ride from Kyoto station. It is not only an ideal location for the easy access to the ancient capital city but also for having an amazing visitor’s viewing location. Therefore, whether you are wishing to explore Kyoto’s traditional heritage, sample the fantastic food that Kyoto offers or take a trip off the beaten path, I am the guide for you!

Japan

Yacine Z.

I've been living in Japan since 2016. I speak fluent Japanese and work as a translator in addition to my guiding activities. I'd be delighted to guide you around the Kansai region, which includes Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe and Nara, among others. I've been lucky enough to guide over 500 people since I started guiding, and I hope to be able to share my passion for Japan with as many people as possible. I'm available for half-day or full-day tours. Tours are available in English, Spanish, or French, depending on your preferences.

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