Tour GuidesGuides Private ToursTours Private Car ToursCars Virtual ToursVirtual Hideo Y.
Hello, I'm HIDEo YOSHIda. Please call me HIDEYOSHI, the same name as the famous shogun who built the Osaka Castle in 1585.
I was born in Kobe and worked in Osaka for nearly 40 years. I would like to introduce the Kansai region to you ,including Kobe, Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Wakayama.
Kobe is one of the two largest ports in Japan, along with Yokohama. After the opening of the Port of Kobe in 1868, foreigners built their residences on the hillside of the Kitano-cho area, overlooking the ocean. Many of the foreign residences are now open to the public as museums, including the Weathercock House, with it's symbol weathercock on the triangle-shaped roof.
In Meriken Park, the red Port Tower (the city's landmark), creates a beautiful contrast against the white Kobe Marine Museum. The museum's design was inspired by the waves and sailing ships.
When you have a chance to visit Osaka, please join my tour. I'm sure you'll enjoy the interesting and historical, scenic spots. For example, Shin-Sekai is a downtown area with a strange mix of nostalgic atmosphere and contemporary energy. You can try local foods (kushikatsu, sushi, tempura) at a reasonable price. Billiken (a famous statue of the spirit of luck) will be waiting for you!!. Dotombori is a popular street with a lot of flashy signboards. Osaka is widely known as a "Kuidaore-no-machi", or literally "drinking and eating luxuriously to death." Osaka Castle was built by Toyotomi HIDEYOSHI in 1585. Oh, it's my residence, isn't it !
These days "The Wizarding World of Harry Potter" area in USJ, or Universal Studios Japan, is also attracting more and more people.
I'll be looking forward to seeing you !!
Rick I.
My nick name is Rick and Japanese name is Ryoichi. I was born and grew up in Kyoto. Kyoto has so many sightseeing spots based on its 1000 year history. I will propose you the "must see" spots from local eyes not only temples & shrines but also alternative side of Kyoto. As Kyoto certified English guide, I will guide you with high hospitality for your satisfactory stay in Kyoto.
1. For the first visitors
I will prepare the tour with selection out of the spots as Nijo-castle, Imperial Palace, Nishiki-market, Gion amusement quarter, Arashiyama area and some temples and shrines of World Cultural Heritage Sites based on your request and taste.
2. For the visitors who want to see more spots than regular tours
I will prepare some unique tours like visiting Fushimi area for Sake brewery and riding classical boat, visiting some traditional handicrafts ateliers, enjoying traditional performing art, etc.
Please make any inquiry for your preferred type of Kyoto guiding without hesitation. I would be happy to propose you with the type of tour that makes your visit in Kyoto unforgettable one.
Credentials:
National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (EN01767)
Kyoto City Licensed English Guide (EN00004)
2nd Grade of the licensing examination on knowledge of Kyoto history & culture
Motoyuki H.
My name is Moto, National Licensed Guide Interpreter living in Yamanashi, Kofu-city.
I can offer real experiences of Japanese nature, culture and commoner's life.
Check tour inventory and contact me soon if you are interested in !!
Hiromi N.
I am Romy, a national certified tour guide.
A guide, having grown up near the Imperial Palace and worked at the Imperial Household Agency and an expert on Tsukiji and Asakusa,I am confident to showcase the essence of Tokyo for you!
I used to work for Imperial Household Agency. I am proud to have been familiar with the imperial culture that laid the foundation of Japanese culture.It was a wonderful experience to discuss Japanese mythology with the attendants of Emperor Showa and Empress Kojun, as well as the members of the Imperial Guard.
I have also worked at Goldman Sachs. Collaborating on projects with people from different countries and cultures has been an enjoyable experience. I excel in cross-cultural communication and overcoming our differences to foster mutual understanding.
In addition to this, I studied French literature at university and lived in Venice, Italy. I am multilingual, able to speak both French and Italian. I have a deep love for European art, including the works of Raphael and Bach.
I grew up in Chiyoda Ward and achieved second place in the Imperial Palace Marathon. I have also played the piano at the Hibiya Civic Hall. I have a passion for both the arts and sports!
My mother plays the koto, a traditional Japanese instrument, composes waka poetry, and recites it. My father works for a newspaper company and loves discussing international issues. We also have a Siberian Husky dog.
My whole family loves cooking, and we often have sushi parties together at home. We also enjoy inviting friends over for these gatherings.
I love meeting new people while traveling and expanding my horizons. I also enjoy sharing wisdom and knowledge with everyone.
So far, I have guided people from various countries, including America, Europe, Africa, and China, over 100 times.I have received five stars over 30 times.
I can’t wait to welcome you to Tokyo, Japan!
Let’s create special memories together as you explore the wonders of this vibrant city, Tokyo.
Serge R.
Hi lovely travelers,
I'm Serge, originally from the Netherlands, and Japan has been my home for over three decades now. What brought me here initially was love, and that love has kept me rooted in this beautiful country ever since. Along the way, I discovered another love: Japan itself. Following my stint as a radio jockey and TV presenter, where I co-hosted a dedicated program for the Nagoya Grampus soccer team, I transitioned to a behind-the-scenes role as a media fixer for international media outlets.
Though my job as media fixer, I've been traveling and working throughout all of Japan, exploring unique places and meeting lots of very interesting people.
I would love to share and make you, my dear traveler, experience these places as well. Visiting and getting a tour at Japan's oldest traditional vinegar maker, or experience and taste at a traditional "katsuo bushi" bonito flake maker, or do you prefer to visit some old local shrines or temples. with no-one around you, except for the crickets and trees. Maybe you just want a friend to bring you to your desired locations and interpret and be at your beck and call 24 hours (like I do for the media). If you're looking for flexibility (time, places. transport), you won't find a better match than me.
My work as a fixer taught me a valuable lesson: the key to traveling together successfully, lies in a blend of humor, professionalism, and adaptability.
Alice K.
Hello! I am Alice.
I live in Incheon, South Korea. It's very close to Seoul.
I want to guide my clients through the charming city of Seoul.
Especially when introducing the five grand palaces of Seoul, I would like to invite a professional photographer to capture beautiful moments.
I can help them dress in hanbok and create stunning life shots.
I also want to guide them through Kyeongju, a city that breathes with a long history. I lived in Kyeongju until my teenage years.
I want to introduce UNESCO-listed Kyeongju, a city of culture and history.
I have traveled to Jeju Island more than several ten times. I also want to introduce Jeju Island.
My clients can go anywhere they want in South Korea.
There are many well-preserved cultural heritage sites with a long history in Korea, and they can also experience the convenience of fast-developing Seoul.
Come and visit Korea. Let's explore Seoul and travel together anywhere.
Traveling in Korea will be a memorable and cherished experience.
Best regards. Alice.
Moriaki A.
Hello, I am a retired captain of a commuter airline, with over 40 years of experience and over 22,400 flight hours focused on providing safe and comfortable travel. I have had the opportunity to visit various countries, including Japan, the United States, China, Taiwan, South Korea, and the Philippines.
After retiring, I worked as a volunteer guide for city walks in Kagoshima for eight years and obtained my certification as a certified guide for the World Heritage Sites in Kagoshima Prefecture. The joy of traveling overseas is getting to know different cultures, languages, and the unique lifestyles and food cultures of the people. However, what is most valuable to me are the memories made meeting people during travels.
During my career, I focused on safely and comfortably transporting passengers. Today, I aim to continue a job that brings travelers fun and memorable experiences. I am committed to being a reliable guide for everyone and providing memorable trips.
Nicolás D.
Hola! We are Nicolás, Sofía, Iván and Ignacio. Together, we are a team of professionals in anthropology, history and archeology. With a wide experience working at national museums we are passionate about the past and we love sharing and discussing it. We would like to invite you to discover Buenos Aires from an anthropological point of view. Don't expect to just walk and listen: be prepared to talk, make questions and discuss about the past, present and future of the Argentinean capital. Be welcome to the cultural capital of South America!
Naoki H.
Hi! My name is Naoki,
I was born and bred in Osaka. I have a reliable and friendly personality and always enjoy making people smile.
I am a full time Experienced Tour Guide organizing and managing tours, not just in Osaka but all over the Kansai-area including Kyoto, Nara, Kobe and Hiroshima.
I have experience in directly managing groups of over 500 travelers so far and also designing specific itineraries for different needs and sights. If you have any specific sights that you would like to see then please let me know and I will accommodate as many sites as possible into any tour.
Outside of my tour guiding, I have had a career over 15 years in Japanese car logistics taking care of lots of international businesses which allows me to have a professional manner in face to face communication.
Osaka is a brilliant city with long history, amazing street food, unique accent (so we have lots of comedians here!) and also known as the most friendly city in Japan. I would love to be the perfect companion for your visit to one of the best cities in Japan! I look forward to seeing you soon!
Best Regards
Naoki
Harry M.
Looking for a guide who truly knows Okinawa?
With 15 years of experience in the field of science education in both Okinawa and Hawaiʻi, I now work as a guide-interpreter and edutainer (educator + entertainer) based in Okinawa.
I use my educational background to create unique, engaging tours that help participants discover something new about Okinawa’s breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
From exploring Okinawa’s diverse ecosystems, both on land and in the sea, to experiencing the traditions of Karate and the enchanting sounds of Okinawan Sanshin music, I’m passionate about sharing the best of Okinawa with you.
If you’re ready for a tour that’s not only unforgettable but also filled with learning and discovery, let’s embark on this journey together!
(I also offer guided tours of the Mt. Fuji area, my hometown. Additional transportation fees apply.)
Guiding Fee (For up to 10 people):
- 4 hours: ¥30,000
- 6 hours: ¥35,000
- 8 hours: ¥40,000
Guiding with Car Transportation (For up to 3 people):
- Extra ¥10,000 (Includes gas, parking, and expressway fees)
Go E.
Hello.My name is Go ,a national certified guide-interpreter. I live in Iwaki City, Fukushima Prefecture. Iwaki, about 180 km northeast of Tokyo, is a seaside city blessed with the mild climate and the gateway to the Tohoku district. My favorite things are gardening and listening jazz and fusion. I am a big fan of Hirotaka Izumi, a proficient pianist. I had lived in Auckland,NZ for a year and a half. As a local,I will show great sights of Ibaraki and Fukushima to visitors with sincerity.
Hiro Y.
Hello, my dear would-be guests! My name is Hiroko. People call me Hiro for short. I am a government licensed guide. Here I am to make your time in a tour full of fun and provide you an unforgettable travel experience of your life. I grew up and live in Yokohama that is adjacent to Tokyo. After many years of several English-related job experiences, such as translating, teaching, desk work, etc., I finally found this job, tour guide, which is a perfect fit for my true nature. I love meeting people, having fun with people, and am always looking for something interesting wanting to share it with people. How about spending a part of your precious time here in Japan with this cheerful, friendly and well-informed tour guide, Hiro?
Macco K.
Hello :) I am Macco, a licensed tour guide. I love eating and traveling, so I call myself "EATraveler". I'd like you to experience "tasty (oishi)" Japan, so my tour will be full of nice food.
I was born and grew up in Osaka, and now I live in a small fishing town called Manazuru (near Hakone area) after living in Tokyo for more than 10 years. I fell in love with the beautiful scenery of the sea and mountains of Manazuru, and I really enjoy a relaxing life here. So I'd like to show you around this cozy town, which will make you feel nostalgic and relaxed.
I also work as an editor & writer. My recent works are mainly books about food and drinks, such as fermented food, dried food, cocktails and bars, Japanese sake, coffee, cheese, tea, as well as agriculture and food issues. Based on this background, I'd like to offer you amazing food experiences in Japan and enjoy EATraveling together :)
Looking forward to seeing you in Manazuru!
Yukiko F.
I'm Yukiko Fujii. I'm a Licensed Tour Guide and a Registered Nurse. I've worked as a guide since 2015. Thanks to increasing repeat, referred and new clients, tour guide is my main job. I've done virtual experience on Amazon and company events during the last 3 years pandemic. Since I am one of a few guides who tried virtual tour in Tokyo during pandemic, it was a challenging, but it was definitely a great step and enhanced my guiding skills.
I was born and raised in Tokyo. I am a mother so that I'd be glad to welcome families with young children as well.
I used to teach Japanese cultures to elementary students from Kindergarten to Grade 6 at local and private elementary schools when I lived in Canada, United states, and New Zealand. My happiest moments with these children were when they look forward to another lesson every week. All lessons were customized and prepared after discussing with each classroom teacher. It was a challenging job, but this experience broaden my horizon and prompted me to become an English tour guide.
I have a license of Registered Nurse and a Medical interpreter. I've still worked as a nurse during the off- tourism season so that I've kept a medical back ground. There are some common thinking between Tour guide and Nurse, both jobs are required to put myself into their shoes. I'll make plans considering their physical conditions and will arrange any supports after discussing about the tour. I've already experienced to do several tours for mobility challenged clients who have intractable disease and have a difficulty for a long walking. Mobility challenged customers (cane/wheelchair) are always welcomed.
I'd love to make your trip meaningful and unforgettable. Please feel free to contact with me anytime.
I'm looking forward to meeting you in my tour! Arigatou!
Yoko T.
Hi, I'm Yoko, a National License Tour Guide&International Kikisake-shi.
I speak with an American accent, 'cause I lived in Seattle, Washington for six years in my childhood(3-9 years old). My tours might be better with people who LOVE TO WALK, have STAMINA and keen to learn about the culture.
Now I live within a walking distance from Ueno Park, Tokyo, so I see a lot of International tourists walking around in my neighborhood every day.
(PLEASE CHECK EACH TOUR. The expenses are spelled out, too.)
"Tokyo is larger than we thought and the transportations are so complicated," Swedish guys told me. I'm here to help you. I know well about Tokyo, Yokohama, Yamanashi etc. and I travel most of the parts of Japan.
I would appreciate if you could see more sightseeing spots with me as your guide and enjoy your stay.
I love to answer your questions, even though I became nearly breathless when I was with American guests, a family of three, curiously asking me questions after questions:-)
I appreciated their interest in Japan very much.
I also go mountain trekking for nearly thirty years. I've been to the summit of Mt. Fuji and Mt. Kitadake three times. Talking about Mt. Takao, maybe more than fifty times.
I hope we can enjoy the beautiful view together.
I'm looking forward to seeing you soon and having a good time together.
Hope to hearing from you soon.
Taka M.
Would you like to have a private guide when you are traveling to Tokyo?
I adjust the experience based upon your needs and desires, so I will ensure that your goals are met.
Hello, I'm Taka.
Tokyo is my hometown all through my life, and I know many interesting places and things to do, which are not yet introduced in the travel books. It will be a real pleasure sharing my knowledge with you.
Tokyo is a truly exciting and multi-dimensional city. I can offer you unique and memorable experiences here in Tokyo. How about walking along some back streets and taste some local delicacies? Or try Sake and Japanese wine?
I have been in broadcasting business for over 30 years, and as a TV director I have made a countless coverage trips all around the globe.
Also I am a professional winemaker in the Unites States, and stay in California during the harvest time every year, from September to November.
With my unique business back ground, I have decided to start my new business as a professional tour guide specializing in the Tokyo area.
Let’s enjoy the cutting-edge Tokyo with a former TV director and a winemaker!
Junko Y.
Hi there! I'm Junko, a government licensed tour guide and interpreter. I was born and bred in the Tokyo area. I can customize my tour or ceate a tour any way you like, so please send me a message if you are interested. I have spent a year as a graduate student in the US, and traveled in several countries. I've made friends with non-Japanese people throughout my life, and I have a pretty good knowledge of what they want to know. I love goofy jokes and having fun. I will do my best to make our clients' stay in Japan a wonderful one.
Yasuhiko I.
Hi! My name is Yasuhiko Ikeda, please call me "Yasu", meaning "hello" in Greek. After I worked in an electric company in Japan, I became a professional guide to introduce my town, my country.
After Covid-19, tourism is back! you may want to have more private experiences like no other people had before. Then, my home, Fukuoka, has a lot to show you around. So many nice places, cultures, and nice local people with delicious local foods.
I like sports, climbing, running etc. I also like to visit temples and shrines. I am also an active backpacker, (have been to 50+ countries mostly in Asia and Europe over 30 years) So, I suppose I know well about where you would like to visit. :) I have never lived outside of Japan, however, you may also feel better that my speaking English is not typical Japanese "flat" intonation.
Where you would like to go, I will be there with you! I am looking forward to inquiry.
-Yasu
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!:)
Ahmed A.
Hello! I’m Ahmed, a passionate tour guide based in Kyoto, Japan. Originally from Kuwait, I moved back to Palestine where I earned my Medical Degree (MD) in 2008. In 2015, I was fortunate to receive a Japanese government scholarship to pursue further studies at Kyoto University, one of Japan’s top institutions.
Living in Kyoto opened my eyes to the rich history and stunning scenery of this ancient city, which served as Japan’s capital for over a thousand years. It ignited my passion for culture, history, and food, leading me to embark on a rewarding career as a tour guide.
I have traveled extensively across Europe and Asia, and I love sharing my knowledge of Japanese culture with others. I can provide historical insights at every stop, recommend the best local cuisine, and create personalized itineraries, including day trips from Tokyo to Kyoto.
I’m fluent in English and Arabic, and I thrive on connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Whether you’re interested in exploring temples, experiencing traditional cuisine, or simply enjoying the beauty of Kyoto, I’m here to make your visit unforgettable.
Your safety and comfort are my top priorities. I measure my temperature before our tours and am happy to wear a mask if it makes you feel more comfortable. While I'm not a driver, I will accompany you in your vehicle or arrange for a separate car and driver if needed.
Book with confidence and get ready to explore Kyoto with me! I can’t wait to show you why I believe this city is the most beautiful in Japan.
Ahmed, MD, PhD, MBA
Minori U.
Hello I'm Minori.
Kyoto is a popular destination so you might look for deeper place of it. My area is Yamashina, where you pass when traveling Shiga. It has beautiful mountains and water, also its temples and shrines are less crowded. It's a good place for those who have visited famous sites already.
I used to work at travel agency so I had chances to company a group tour with a guide and it was an amazing experience that I could see people actually having a fun. I also worked in a hotel and learned how important hospitality is to make guests feel comfortable.
I teach kids English so I would like to show them how rewarding and proud it is to show people around our beautiful countries, and English would be helpful in many ways.
Let’s go and see beautiful Kyoto and experience some of the best attractions here with me!
Aissam E.
Discover Tokyo with me, Aissam, a dedicated full-time teacher and a passionate traveler. With tailored itineraries, immersive cultural experiences, and a focus on local interactions, I offer an extraordinary journey that combines education and exploration. Engage with Tokyo's rich traditions, participate in captivating learning experiences, and create unforgettable memories. Let me guide you through the vibrant streets, bridging the gap between cultures and fostering meaningful connections. Together, we'll unravel the secrets of this incredible city and leave you with a deeper understanding, cherished memories, and a broader worldview. Join me for an unforgettable adventure through Tokyo's wonders!
Junichi N.
Hello, I am Junichi.
I am a licensed tour guide.
I worked at a bank for 41 years, including overseas assignments in NY & LA for 12 years.
I started this tour guide in 2007.
I'd like you to experience and enjoy a Japanese culture different from your own.
Koichiro Y.
Hello! I’m Koichiro. Please call me “Yamasan”. It derives from my family name and my friends call me so.
I had been working for a machinery company as a project engineer and manager 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 40% but we should mind about it still. Please carry your mask to wear it where or when necessary. (April 2024, Yamasan)