English Shiga Tour Guides
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Japan
Michiko N.
5.00 / 5
(16 reviews)
5.00 / 5
(16 reviews)
Hello, and thank you for visiting my page! I’m Michiko, a local guide born and raised in Kyoto. I love meeting people from around the world and sharing the spirit of Japanese hospitality.and I love fun things! I went to the UK to watch musicals, and recently I spent a year living in Thailand — experiences that deepened my love for art, culture, and people. Besides guiding, I also work in theater and performance art, creating unique shows in shop windows! Let’s explore Kyoto together and find its heart — the beauty, people, and stories that make it special! with BIGLOVE!
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Japan
Koichi W.
4.97 / 5
(94 reviews)
4.97 / 5
(94 reviews)
Hi! I'm Koichi. I was born in Osaka, I studied in Kyoto when I was a university student. Now I live in Shiga next to Kyoto. I am a national government licensed tour guide. I have been guiding about 160 groups over the past twelve months. I usually guide my customers mainly in Kansai region including Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Kobe and Shiga by public transportation systems. Well, I am curious about Japanese history, especially the history of Japan's ancient times since I was raised next to the world biggest mausoleum of the ancient Emperor called "Nintoku" in Sakai city Osaka which has just become one of the world cultural heritage sites. I dug out some ancient earthen ware vessels around there when I was a primary school student like the adventure archaeologist “Indiana Jones" (It’s our secret!!). That was my hobby. Now, one of my hobbies is outdoor activities such as mountaineering, kayaking, skiing and others. So I would like to take you to some good places where you can enjoy Japanese unique nature. I love to guide foreign visitors from all over the world. I think it is my calling or heavenly given job. Let's go and enjoy together! I hope to see you soon.
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Japan
Nori I.
5.00 / 5
(75 reviews)
5.00 / 5
(75 reviews)
I have lived in the US, UK, and India for approximately 20 years, and I’ve also traveled to about 30 countries. Living abroad for such a long time made me realize Japan’s value and sparked my interest in working as a translator/guide for foreigners. I’m truly passionate about introducing people to historical sites, authentic Japanese culture, and stunning natural spots that may not be widely known to people outside of Japan. There are countless places that I believe people would love. I am a certified English interpreter guide certified by Kyoto City, Uji City and Otsu City. Originally from Nagoya, I cover areas around the Kansai region including Kyoto, Shiga and Mie. I’m here to ensure your trip to Japan becomes an unforgettable memory. Looking forward to meeting you!
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Japan
Mana F.
4.89 / 5
(114 reviews)
4.89 / 5
(114 reviews)
Hello, my name is Mana. I am a National Licensed Tour Guide in English. I was born and raised in Kyoto. I worked for the Kyoto Prefectural Police Headquarters after I graduated from university. I know lots about Kyoto's cultures and festivals . After I got married, I have been in Shiga for over 30 years. I work for at high school as a part time teacher. I am flexible in Kyoto and Shiga. I am practicing ”Rakugo”a traditional Japanese comedic storytelling art, to make my tours more enjoyable and filled with laughter. Let’s laugh together during my tours!The fun, hand-drawn illustrations I use on my tours are also very popular—most of my guests take photos of them.
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Japan
Tatsuhiro N.
4.62 / 5
(77 reviews)
4.62 / 5
(77 reviews)
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.
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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!
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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!
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Japan
Kanae O.
5.00 / 5
(64 reviews)
5.00 / 5
(64 reviews)
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.
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Japan
Koki N.
5.00 / 5
(22 reviews)
5.00 / 5
(22 reviews)
Hello! My name is Koki. I'm English speakinig tour guide living in Gifu city. I already visited more than 60 nations so far. I can speak some Manderin & Cantonese too. Let's enjoy real Japanese culture & history with me. I would enjoy with you real Samurai history, Kimono culture, local traditional festival, temple,shrine,Japanese tea ceremony, food and Sake. If you would like to more understand Japanese castle, I can attend you and teach you about how appreciation point of Japanese castle and garden with beautiful meal and sweets. Let's travel with me!
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Japan
Tomoe S.
4.94 / 5
(158 reviews)
4.94 / 5
(158 reviews)
Hello! My name is Tomoe. I'm a national licensed guide interpreter(English). I made my page here, TripleLights in October 2018. Thank you for finding me. I was born and grew up in Otsu,Shiga, which is the next city of Kyoto. I graduated from the university in Kyoto and lived there for four years due to my husband's job. I like history and like to visit temples in Nara. My hobby is to plan trips and have visited many cities and towns in Japan and abroad. One of my favorite places is the AIRPORT!! I have enjoyed meeting and guiding people from abroad, to sightseeing spots in my country. I really want many people from abroad to enjoy visiting many places and have wonderful experiences in my country. I'll be really happy if I can have such experiences with you!! Please tell and ask me if there are any places which you want to visit and anything which you want to do in my country. I'll plan the trip only for you. I am cheerful and always positive. I like to talk with people. I would like to talk with many people from many countries. Please tell me about your country, too!! I'm looking forward to seeing you!! * If you want, I will take you back to your hotel (within the time or with the extra hourly rate) Or, I will show you how to go back to your hotel when we finish the tour. * If you want, I will give you some advice about what to and where to eat your lunch/dinner.
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Japan
Yuriko S.
4.95 / 5
(64 reviews)
4.95 / 5
(64 reviews)
I am Yuriko from Gifu Prefecture. I was an assistant English teacher at junior high school. I started to work as a National Certificate tour guide in 2019. I'm very interested in kimono, tea ceremony and Japanese castles. I sometimes guide in kimono. There are so many nice places to visit in Gifu and Nagoya! I also guide around Takayama, Shirakawago, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka and Kanazawa if you pay my transportation fee from my hometown. Let's enjoy Japan with me!
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Japan
Yuta I.
5.00 / 5
(56 reviews)
5.00 / 5
(56 reviews)
Hi, my name is Yuta, and I’m a guide based in Kyoto and Osaka :) I guide in both English and German, and I enjoy helping visitors discover Japan in a way that feels personal and memorable. 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!
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Japan
Tomoya H.
4.80 / 5
(5 reviews)
4.80 / 5
(5 reviews)
Looking for trekking guide? It's me! I was born in Osaka, and grown up under nature loving parent, and spent a lot of time on hiking, fishing, camping and skiing in my youth. I have been guiding trekkers from north to south Japan, as well as oversea trails. Even when I'm not at work, enjoy trekking trails in Rokko area which is just by the door. I'm a JMGA (Japan Mountaineering Guides Association) certificated Trekking Guide (stage II), and you'll be enjoying the trail without any issues and worries with me.
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Japan
Michiko N.
5.00 / 5
(27 reviews)
5.00 / 5
(27 reviews)
Hello, I am Michiko , the same name of Japanese ex-Empress. I am a government certified tour guide. I have lived in Nagoya ( located between Tokyo and Osaka) for 35 years since I got married. I worked for JAL as a flight attendant in my 20's. After retiring JAL, I have taught English and Mathematics to junior and senior high school students for 20 years. I love traveling very much both domestically and abroad and enjoy walking around each city and talking with local people so that I can find out the way how to they live and think about their life. It's quite a fun for me. I also love hiking and mountain climbing in spring, summer and autumn, and skiing in winter. In the countryside of Japan there still remain those farming and fishery villages where people have been rooted in their land and community, living the way handed down from generation to generation. You can also enjoy the original Japanese landscape there. Why don't you get out of the hustle and bustle of your busy life and have a rest rich in nature in the rural Japan enjoying beautiful scenery and local food. I'm waiting for you!
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Japan
Kazuhiko G.
4.78 / 5
(200 reviews)
4.78 / 5
(200 reviews)
Hello, I’m Kazuhiko. Please call me “Kazu”. I'm a national-licensed tour guide. I have a wife and 4 children. I was born in Osaka city near Kyoto, although I have lived in many places across Japan. I used to work for multinational electric company and I traveled to many countries (U.S., Thailand, Hong Kong etc.) on business. I have enjoyed guiding many foreign tourists in Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Hiroshima, Tokyo, Mt. Fuji etc. for many years. During your tour, you can discover a rich Japanese history spanning about 2,000 years, learn about and experience profound Japanese arts (tea ceremony, flower arrangement etc.), feel the spiritual atmosphere of Buddhist temples or Shinto shrines, see a breathtakingly beautiful scenery of Mt. Fuji, bamboo forest, Japanese gardens etc.. Moreover, you can taste Japanese cuisine that each season has to offer (Sushi, Tempura, Soba or ramen noodle etc.). You can get close to nature and feed wild deer or monkeys or even a build snowman in winter. I’m sure that I can provide a splendid tour of Japan that will be a lasting memory for you to treasure. Experience the mysteries of Japan with 5 senses !! Your memorable tour awaits you. Please feel free to contact me!!
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Japan
Eco H.
5.00 / 5
(8 reviews)
5.00 / 5
(8 reviews)
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.
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Japan
Kenji O.
5.00 / 5
(13 reviews)
5.00 / 5
(13 reviews)
I lived in Seattle, WA US for several years to study public policy and urban planning at University of Washington and Washington State Department of Transportation . The US life has awakened me to realize its beauty and value of the Japanese nature and culture. After coming back from US, I have started my professional career of the infrastructure development in both developed and developing countries as a Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) expert for more than 20 years. I have provided hospitality and honesty as a Japanese during my professional career. I can give you not only sightseeing tours but also technical tours with my expertise. I live in Osaka where an ancient capital city, Kyoto is located within a hour by train. I can show you how Japanese has developed the capital city with urban planning and infrastructure development. I look forward to seeing you here in Japan.
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Japan
Toshiyo O.
4.70 / 5
(274 reviews)
4.70 / 5
(274 reviews)
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.
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Japan
Masanobu N.
Hello and welcome! My name is Masa, and I'm your local guide here in Osaka. With a passion for sharing the rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine of this incredible city, I am dedicated to providing you with an unforgettable experience. Whether you're exploring the bustling streets, marveling at the majestic landmarks, or savoring authentic Japanese dishes in hidden local eateries, I'm here to ensure your time in Osaka is filled with excitement, discovery, and memorable moments. Let's embark on this adventure together and uncover the wonders of Osaka!
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Japan
Hiroki D.
4.96 / 5
(24 reviews)
4.96 / 5
(24 reviews)
【CUSUTOMIZED TOUR IS WELCOMED】 Thank you for visiting my page. I studied Tourism at a college in the US 15 years ago. After studying tourism, I worked at a travel agency before setting up a personal tour guide. My goal is tol create a tour that meets your needs. I promise that I will aim to make you satisfied with tours that major travel agencies cannot imitate. I speak multiple languages Japanese, English, and Chinese (still studying).
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Japan
Hero I.
4.92 / 5
(52 reviews)
4.92 / 5
(52 reviews)