Tour GuidesGuides Private ToursTours Private Car ToursCars Virtual ToursVirtual Shoji K.
Hi! Welcome to Japan. My name is Shoji Kitamura, a licensed English-speaking tour guide. Please call me Shoji that is the same sound as a sliding screen made of wood and paper you may have seen in a traditional Japanese room.
I was born and raised in Yokohama next to Tokyo but lived for work in several beautiful and historical cities such as Nikko, Hiroshima, and Ise which have world heritage sites and/or national park. I fully enjoyed the nature, culture and lives in each city where I lived.
I retired after 36 years with a national research institute of fisheries in 2016.
During my career, I visited 5 continents except Antarctica, more than 20 nations for attending international scientific conferences, conducting collaborative research or teaching some technologies, etc. In Japan, I often took foreign scientists and government officers sightseeing. I had great times in these opportunities.
Such experiences made me decide to become a licensed English-speaking guide interpreter after retirement to introduce Japanese nature, culture, foods, etc. properly to many tourists coming to Japan from all over the world.
For more than 20 years I’ve been living in Nikko, which is located about 150km north of Tokyo, and designated as a World Heritage site and a National Park. If you consider a day trip from Tokyo, I strongly recommend coming to Nikko by 2-hour train ride from Tokyo. I am looking forward to showing you around in this historical and beautiful town.
Besides Nikko, I can also guide you in Yokohama, my home town, and in neighboring city such as Tokyo and Kamakura.
Yui M.
Hello there, I'm Yui.
I'm original from Hyogo and now I live in Osaka.
I know Kansai area(Osaka,Kobe,Kyoto) quite well.
I will organize the tour every single guests.if you have any request like what would you like to do, what are you interested about etc.... please feel free to ask.
I will charge 5,000yen- per hour. I will charge extra for group( more than 4people).
It will be super helpful for cover my transport fee during the tour.
I love traveling, walking, circling, clime mountains, diving, snowboard etc... I love to spend time in the nature a lot.
I had experience to do working holiday in New Zealand, Australia and Ireland.
I was barista when I was in Australia.
I am flat white addicted.
I love to meet people from all over the world and share the culture.
I traveled more than 25 countries so far and I had such an amazing trip in there.
I went to South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Cambodia,Thailand,Malaysia,Australia,NewZealand,Italy,France,Spain,Gibraltar, Germany, Netherland, Czech public, Poland, Hungary, Croatia, England, Scotland, Ireland ,Russia, Canada, Hawaii.Philippins and Vietnam
Next destination will be Indonesia,Greece or Turkey. Well will see happens.
I wish I can introduce amazing part of Kansai area and you will have great time with me.
I used to work at Universal Studio Japan so the map is in my head. I am available to do some guide or help in there if you require.
I'm looking forward to receive the message from you and hopefully see you soon.
Thank you.
Lily I.
Hello! I’m Lily.
I am a government certified tour guide. I have experienced more than 100 customized tours starting from March 2024 and have been receiving 5-star reviews on popular travel booking sites from over 90% of my guests.
I love Japanese food(eating and cooking!), cultures such as traditional arts and crafts, and so much more! I love exploring towns small or big to look for hidden gems and can't wait to share them with you!
I was born and raised in Tokyo for over 40 years with a few childhood years in the US. I am a mom of two boys and have work experience in the Japanese Education industry as a teacher and a public relations professional.
I am proud to be able to introduce the charms of Japan from multiple perspectives based on my experience of interacting with people from many different nationalities.
I am happy to tailor an original plan or to arrange your bucket list advancing it to a better option.
I’m looking forward to guiding and sharing the excitement of Japan!!
Michele S.
My name is Michele, I’m 33 years old, and I’m originally from Italy. I’ve been living in Kyoto, Japan, since 2019. My journey began when I left Italy at the age of 22, seeking adventure and new experiences. I spent five incredible years living in Oceania, where I immersed myself in different cultures and explored breathtaking landscapes. During this time, I also traveled extensively across Asia, discovering its rich diversity and deepening my passion for exploring new places.
In 2019, my wife Shizuka and I decided to settle in Kyoto to start a family. We chose Kyoto because of its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, which has captivated us ever since. Over the years, we’ve traveled all over Japan, uncovering both its hidden gems and its iconic destinations.
I’m an outdoor enthusiast who loves hiking and cycling. Whether it’s climbing mountain trails, exploring serene temples, or biking through picturesque countryside, I find joy in experiencing Japan’s beauty firsthand. My passion for the outdoors has also allowed me to discover many lesser-known spots that offer an authentic glimpse into the charm of Kyoto and beyond.
As your guide, I’d love to share my knowledge and love for Kyoto with you. Whether it’s visiting famous landmarks or exploring hidden treasures off the beaten path, I’m here to make your journey memorable, personalized, and full of unique experiences. Let’s discover the magic of Kyoto together!
Keiko K.
Hello, welcome to my profile! I'm Keiko (Kay). As a national certified guide deeply passionate about the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of this area, I am eager to share these experiences with you. With over 16 years of experience living abroad, mostly in Europe, I've had the privilege of immersing myself in diverse cultures and meeting incredible people from around the world. I'm sociable, outgoing and love making new connections wherever I go.
I'm also very active, enjoying sports like badminton, biking, jogging, and dancing, especially zumba and salsa. On top of that, I've been playing the piano for over *xx years, a passion that brings balance to my life. (The reason XX is simply because I hesitate to disclose my age...)
Health and nutrition are important to me, as is the same to everyone, and I love exploring new ways to stay healthy and enjoy good food!
Our itinerary will take us through some of the most iconic landmarks, as well as a few hidden gems that only locals know about. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient architecture, indulging in the local cuisine, or learning about the fascinating history that has shaped this place, I am here to tailor the tour to your interests.
Would I be a good fit for your company here in Hiroshima?
Warm regards,
Keiko(Kay)
Yukihiro(hero) N.
Hello, everyone!! My name is Yukihiro, call me "HERO". I'm eager to introduce this unique country, Japan to foreign guests. I am not a professional interpreter. I have retired from Japan Ground Self-Defense Force(JGSDF=Japanese Army) on March 2018.
大家好! 我名字叫xing2 bo2, 請叫我xing bo(行博)。我喜歡跟外國遊客分享這個很有意思的國家---日本國。我是個業餘的翻譯導遊, 不太專業, 在2018年3月我退休了日本陸上自衛隊(日本陸軍)。
I have spent most of my career as a Army NCO(Non-commissioned officer) . My job experiences are only in the military, but there are variety of specialties, so I didn't feel boredom. I lived in many places all over Japan, such as Hokkaido 10years, Chiba 15years, Okinawa 8years and more places.
我在軍隊當陸軍士官過了大部分的生活。我的工作經驗只在軍隊內,但是它有很多兵種和工作,所以我沒有膩了。我住過日本各地的很多地方,例如北海道10年,千葉縣15年,沖繩16年還有別的有些地方。
I am working for a half of month in Okinawa, and the rest of month in Nagasaki as a Triple Lights interpreter tour guide.
我一邊在沖繩縣大概半個月, 一邊在九州長崎周邊當Triple Lights的翻譯導游工作剩餘的月。
I am registered as a Okinawa prefectural interpreter tour guide (English & Chinese), but don't have a whole Japan certification. So I am brushing my skill up to get it.
我登記了沖繩縣的地域翻譯導遊(英/中文),可是沒有全國的。所以為了獲得全國導遊資格,我正在繼續學外語。
I speak English, Chinese (simplify & traditional) , no problem to guide you, not like a native though.
我會說英語和中文(簡/繁),作為您的導游沒問題,沒有母語的人那麼好。
Koichiro Y.
Hello! I’m Koichiro. Please call me “Yamasan”. It derives from my family name and my friends call me so.
I worked for a machinery company as a project manager and engineer for mechanical and electrical construction projects both domestic and overseas for over 35 years. I recall my first overseas project in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia when I was 26, and the second was in Singapore. I visited many countries for surveys, meetings, commissioning, project handing over, and so on.
In 2014 at the age of 60, I decided to retire from the company and live the expected further 30 years of life with a new career and experiences. I, then, studied translation and guide interpretation. I passed the national examination for licensed guides (English) in 2015 and registered with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government in February 2016.
Until now, I have been guiding many beautiful guests mainly to popular sightseeing spots such as Asakusa, Tsukiji, Omote-Sando, Meiji Jingu Shrine, and Tokyo Skytree, and also cultural experiences of Origami making, Furoshiki wrapping, and Sushi cooking.
I am happy that I can freely arrange a customized tour together with you, or can propose my tours to you. I want to show you some parts of daily Tokyo life and introduce you to Bunkyo City which is located in the heart of 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 a happy life now.
Now, we can tour around the world but have not yet overcome COVID-19 completely. Recently, the number of passengers wearing masks on public transportation in Tokyo reduced to some 25% but we should mind about it still. Please carry your mask to wear it where or when necessary (December 2024, Yamasan).
Yoshi K.
Hi! I'm Yoshi.
I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter.
Since I was born in Tokyo, near Asakusa, the famous tourist spot, and I now live in Yokohama, I am very familiar with many sightseeing spots and attractions of Tokyo and Kanagawa area.
I used to live in California in the states, as a graduate student at UCLA and Stanford University, so I speak natural American English.
I used be a CEO of an internet company, dealing business with many foreign companies of the US, European countries and Asian countries. Therefore, I know your culture!
I can explain Japanese culture, by comparing them with yours.
Of course, I can guide you to the popular spots, like Asakusa, the Imperial palace, Meiji shrine, Shinjuku, and Shibuya. But also I can take you to some secret places, which nobody knows, like a hidden temple in a dungeon.
Interested?
Please contact me.
See you soon!
Yoshi
Kuniaki S.
I've been involved in English education at public junior high school and prefectural board of education for more than 40 years as a teacher, teachers' consultant and a principal.Now retired, I’m very interested in introducing many places of historical interest and scenic beauty in my hometown to international visitors to Japan.My motto in life is ”once-in-a-lifetime encounter”. I'm more than happy to help make your trip the most impressive one.
Why don't you get off the beaten track and visit Shinjo and Mogami regions? Shinjo City is now world-famous for its Shinjo Festival, registered by UNESCO as an Intangible World Cultural Heritage, December in 2016. I’m sure that you can definitely enjoy both the festival and the subtle harmony between man and nature in this area.
Yuta I.
Hi everyone! My name is Yuta!
Thanks for checking out my profile.
I've been living in Kyoto for over 4 years, and I love exploring and sharing the city's amazing history and culture with people from all over the world. During university, I spent over a year traveling around Europe, which helped me become fluent in English and German.
I studied at the University of Leipzig in Germany and got great experience through an internship there. My wife is German, so I'm always in an international environment, learning about different cultures.
Besides guiding tours, I'm also a social media influencer with over 10,000 Instagram followers. I love sharing interesting content about Japanese and German life, connecting with people globally, and showing off the beauty of Kyoto.
I offer custom tours for individuals and groups, making sure each experience is unique and special. With my deep knowledge of Kyoto's historical sites and architecture, I'll make your visit to Japan's ancient capital fun and enlightening.
During our tour, I'll share cool historical insights and stories about the places we visit, helping you understand Japan's past and its connection to the present. I'm friendly and attentive, so I'll make sure you have a great time in Japan!
Feel free to message me if you have any questions about your trip to Japan!
Hope to see you soon on one of my tours.
Toshiyuki D.
Hello! I’m Toshi from Japan.
In my free time, I enjoy reading, listening to music, dancing and watching Kabuki.
I have a deep interest in cultural exchange and have traveled to several countries, immersing myself in diverse traditions and languages.
I believe that connecting with people from around the world broadens our perspectives and enriches our lives.
I’m glad if I could be your tour guide! Looking forward to making meaningful connections here!
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.
Tomoya H.
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.
Hugh C.
Hi!
Thanks for reviewing my profile.
I am Australian, from Sydney originally but my life with Japan and its culture and history spans 30 odd years and I have been a Hiroshima resident for 18 of those 30 years.
I joined GoWithGuide just recently but be assured I have led many tours in Hiroshima and more widely throughout metropolitan and regional Japan, sharing conversations about the unique society, its fascinating culture and history. I also have written several tourism blogs for inbound tour companies and also the Hiroshima Prefectural Tourism Bureau.
I speak fluent Japanese and I have immersed myself in the experience of living here in modern and traditional culture and spent many years studying martial arts Aikido and Iaido. I also have a strong interest in Buddhist teachings. My Japanese calligraphy work over the years has been received recognition and several awards and commissions both in Japan and elsewhere.
I'm looking forward to spending a great experience sharing the culture and history of Hiroshima with you.
Fumiko I.
Hello! I'm Fumiko, a licensed national tourist guide. I love Japanese culture such as Japanese way of arranging flowers, calligraphy, origami or folding paper, and wearing yukata. If you would like to experience these kinds of things Japanese, I can arrange for you. I'm good on Japanese history, too. I'd like to show you around Tokyo and other places with their historical backgrouds, if you like. As I had worked for a travel agency for a long time, I can help you travel smoothly and I'd like to meet your request as much as possible.
I often guide Asakusa, Ueno, East Garden of Imperial Palace, Tsukiji, Ryogoku, Yanesen, Meiji Jingu , Harajuku and so on.
Masato N.
Hi, everybody,
It’s my great pleasure to take you to fantastic places and explain the interesting aspects of Japan. I love this job!
The scope of my work primarily covers Tokyo and its suburbs, and I offer both one-day and multi-day tours. I can also guide you to destinations outside Tokyo, such as Kyoto, Nara, or Himeji Castle. In such cases, you will need to cover my transportation, accommodation, and meals in addition to the guide fee.
We use a taxi or a private car on my urban tours to maximize efficiency. If you prefer to use a private car, please arrange it in advance. Japanese taxis are clean, driven by professional drivers, and generally more affordable than a private car.
In 2018, I was ranked number one in popularity on this matching site, GoWithGuide, due to earning five-star reviews from many tourists. The tourists say that it is because of my cheerful personality, humorous conversations, and extensive knowledge across various fields. This expertise is grounded in my diverse professional background:
Magazine reporter.
An executive aide to the CEO of an international advertising agency.
Manager of public relations and advertising for a multinational company.
Over forty years of work experience in Tokyo.
Additionally, I sometimes appear as an actor in TV dramas and TVCM. I have also published fourteen e-books available on Amazon, including four in English.
I have suggested some ready-made travel packages, but I prefer to propose a suitable travel plan for you after discussing your preferences.
Please, do not hesitate to let me know what you would like. I’m looking forward to meeting you very soon in Japan.
P.S. I had prostate cancer and after two years of treatment, my strength has almost returned to what it was before I had the disease, so I have decided to resume guiding tourists from July 1, 2024.
Thank you,
Masato
Vikki W.
Hello, it's nice to meet you! After living in Aomori, Japan for 21 years, I’ve moved back to my native Melbourne. I loved showing visitors around Aomori and I'm very happy to doing the same in Melbourne. It's a wonderful city and there's a lot to see and do. Melbourne is known for its many beautiful parks and gardens, markets, lanes, its 'upside down' river and of course, its coffee culture. If there's anything in particular you would like to see or do, please don't hesitate to ask, I'm always happy to accommodate requests when possible! Let's have fun exploring this amazing city together!
Vilayluck O.
I'm a private tour guide, a driver and also car rental in Vientiane. You can just call me Lucky.
Koji K.
*My guiding area is only Tokyo (not Kyoto or Mount Fuji areas).
*My tours are walking tours using public trains.
*The maximum number of people I can guide is 4.
Would you like to experience a unique and unforgettable trip to Tokyo with a professional, friendly, and passionate local guide? As a licensed tour guide with over seven years of experience in Tokyo, I would love to share my expertise and hospitality to ensure you have a truly remarkable time in this vibrant city.
As a certified private tour guide, my goal is to provide a stress-free, enjoyable, and immersive experience that feels like being shown around by a local Japanese friend.
My name is Koichiro, but you can call me Koji as well. After spending three years studying English in Southern California, I returned to Japan and earned my national tour guide certification in 2016. Since then, I have guided countless visitors through Tokyo.
Unlike fixed group tours, my tours are flexible—no rigid schedules or formalities. You can adjust your itinerary at any time to match your interests or accommodate unexpected changes.
I genuinely love meeting new people and would be delighted to guide you through Tokyo, sharing both my professional insights and my personal local experiences. Whether you're looking for must-see attractions, authentic restaurants, or hidden gem bars, I’ll ensure you experience the very best of Tokyo—especially its incredible food!
I’d be happy to create a customized travel plan tailored to your preferences and remain flexible to any requests. Feel free to book my tour or message me with any questions or suggestions—I look forward to making your trip unforgettable!
Kashima H.
I am Kashima. I have gained the Government Licensed Tour Guide authorization in 2017/2.
I passed a licensing examination of Kyoto Tourism Culture Certification Test 3rd grade in 2023.
I passed a licensing examination of Tokyo city guide in 2023.
I had worked for one of biggest Electric Company in the world which manufacture various type of Electrical products. I had a task roll of design development of Semiconductor for Video movie appliance in Japan and semiconductor marketing for 5 years in USA. Secondly, I had worked for one of big grovel Electric part Company which manufacture connectors for Electrical appliance usage. I had a task roll of quality assurance cooperating with the grovel college including USA, Europe (Ireland, Germany, France), China and Eastern Asia. As a result, I have communicated with people from different countries and I have become interested in introducing Japan to them. That is why I made decision to become an English tour guide.
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By introducing Japan to non-Japanese tourists, I would like to do my best to serve the best customized private tours in Japan that you and your family are looking forward to enjoying the fantastic experience as below.
1) Sightseeing of natural scenic spots, historical landmark (Temples, Shrines, Palace, Gardens) and cultural assets (Paintings, sculptures, swords and so-on)
2) Strolling of the bustling streets & towns
3) Traditional town atmosphere experience
4) Japanese Modern Architecture in both Tokyo,
5) Experience of Traditional performing arts & events enjoyment such as Kabuki, Sumo-training, tea ceremony and Ninjya training
6) Famous relaxation spots enjoyment such as Onsen and Japanese bar
7) Crafts art of Japan experience such as Sake brewery and Bonsai museums
8) Enjoyment for kids such as Amusement facility (Anime, Games, Comics), shopping of latest trendy goods, entertainment café and so-on.
9) Night-time foods and drinking enjoyment in Food market & Drinking streets
Alexandra V.
We are mindful of the changes the tourism boom has brought to Lisbon in recent years, which is why we support the art of hospitality without neglecting our genuine Lisboan identity and this is what we will share with you. We like detours and how they keep surprising us. We might stop for 20 minutes to see the sunset or take a walk and go have a ginginha at that special place. We don’t want your trip to Lisbon to taste like a frozen meal. What we serve here is homemade and freshly prepared.
Rieko S.
Hello! I am Rieko, a licensed tour guide with a deep passion for sharing the wonders of Gunma.
Located in the center of the main island of Japan, Gunma has been a place where travelers from various parts of Japan, like Tokyo, Niigata, and Nagano, come and go. Some would relax in a hot spring, others would be encouraged by beautiful scenery. Gunma has helped them rejuvenate and keep traveling with energy.
Drawing from my experience as a local tour guide and knowledge of Japanese culture, history, and traditions, I offer you a seamless and immersive journey. Embark on an adventure with me and discover the untold stories, hidden treasures, and vibrant local communities that make Gunma a truly remarkable destination. I hope to see you soon!
Yoko T.
I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter. Born in Sasebo Nagasaki Prefecture, I live in Fukuoka city now.
I cultivated the spirit of hospitality during my career at hotels in Asian countries, including Malaysia, Maldives, and Thailand, and at a hotel in Australia. After returning to Japan, I engaged in inbound tourism introducing great sites, Japanese culture, and Japanese food.
I confidently show around historical sites and urbanized areas and introduce delicious food in Fukuoka and Kyushu. I guide you to beautiful places according to your plans. I like traveling at home and abroad, watching movies, sports, and comedies. I also love music and often go to live concerts. Therefore, I can share a wide range of topics.
I am looking forward to seeing you and will help you make memories.
Shigeki M.
Hello !!! I'm a government certified tour guide. I'm from Kyoto. I'm positive, active and full of curiosity with a sense of humor. I majored in the international commerce in the university and I worked for an electronics company as a sales person. During my career, I had a chance to live in Europe and I learned and experienced different cultures and various values, which helped me to communicate and deal with non-Japanese people more smoothly.
I like travelling (visited more than 40 countries) and watching sports (baseball, football and rugby) as well as going for drinking and Karaoke !
Let's explore Japan with me !!
Looking forward to seeing you soon !!!
Hola!!!
Soy Shigeki. Soy de Kioto que fue la capital de Japón por mas de mil años.
Soy positivo, activo, curioso y tengo mucho sentido de humor. Aprendí el comercio en la universidad y trabajaba como vendedor en una compañia electrónica. En mi carrera, tuve oportunidades de vivir en Europa y aprendí y experimenté culturas y valores distintos que me ayudaron a comunicarme fácilmente y a tratar con gente de todo el mundo.
A mí me encantaría viajar no solo por Japón sino también por todo el mundo. He conocido más de 40 países. Me gusta el deporte, ver partidos de béisbol, futbol y rugby así como salir a tomar unas cervezas y Karaoke.
¡Ven a explorar Japón conmigo!
¡Espero verte pronto!