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Joined 2022
Kenji O.
Available Areas
Kyoto, Okayama, Osaka (Living), Shiga, Kobe, Himeji
Languages
English, Japanese (Native)
Response Time
3 hours on average
Availability Updated
3 days ago
About Tour Guide Kenji O.
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.
Important
I can introduce you interesting spots including temples, shrines and yummy places including local foods though it is not fancy. Please note the following conditions;
-Mass transit fares, admission fees and meal fees must be self-pay.
-Please pay the guide its mass transit fares (2000JPY) by cash on the tour day.
-Let me know if you have any food allergies beforehand.
-Let me know if you have any food you cannot eat for your religious and dietary reasons beforehand.
-My tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
and
-My tour schedule will accomodate you to start earlier at 7:30AM for your convenience if you want to avoid crowds.
Tours
All tours can be customized for you. Send me a message with your requests!
Categories
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Golden Temple, Bamboo Forest, Nostalgic Tram Ride Tour
Keifuku Tram is beloved as "Randen" by Kyoto local. You can enjoy the nostalgic tram ride that takes you the Bamboo forest path in the precinct of Tenryuji temple. This tour takes you to Ryoanji temple that is famous for its rock garden and the Golden temple (Kinkakuji). This tour also includes strolling in the Geisya district of Kamishichiken.
Golden Temple, Bamboo Forest, Nostalgic Tram Ride Tour
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Kyoto Alley Walking Tour (Half Day)
Kyoto served as a capital city where the Emperor resided between 798 and 1868. The ancient capital city has been designated as a UNESCO cultural heritage. This walking tour gives you a fun time to experience strolling in the backstreets where few tourists visit. You can walk in the famous Geisya quarter including Miyagawacho and Gion, Keninji Zen Temple and Shirakawa riverside.You have a fun walking in the alley in Kyoto. You can encounter Geiko (Geisya) or Maiko if you are lucky.
Kyoto Alley Walking Tour (Half Day)
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Himeji Castle Day Trip by Shinkansen from Osaka
You can experience a time travel to the feudal period to encounter Samurai, Japanese warriors. Himeji Castle (姫路城, Himejijō), also known as White Heron Castle (Shirasagijo) due to its elegant, white appearance, is widely recognized as Japan's most spectacular castle for its imposing size and beauty and its well preserved, complex castle grounds.The first fortifications built on the site were completed in the 1400s. The castle complex as it survives today was completed in 1609.
Himeji Castle Day Trip by Shinkansen from Osaka
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Kyoto Alley Walking Tour (Full Day)
Kyoto served as a capital city where the Emperor resided between 798 and 1868. The ancient capital city has been designated as a UNESCO cultural heritage. This walking tour gives you a fun time to experience wandering in the backstreets where a few tourists visit. You can walk in the famous Geisya quarter including Miyagawacho and Gion, Keninji Zen Temple, Shirakawa riverside and more.You have a fun walking in the alley in Kyoto. You can encounter Geiko (Geisya) or Maiko if you are lucky.
Kyoto Alley Walking Tour (Full Day)
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Philosopher's Path Walking Tour; Silver Temple~Nanzenji
This tour invites you to walk along one of the most beautiful walkways in Kyoto. You visit several temples along the walkway, Silver Temple (Ginkakuji), Hounenin Temple, and Nanzenji Temple (Headquarter of Rinzai Zen Sect).
Philosopher's Path Walking Tour; Silver Temple~Nanzenji
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Great Buddha (Daibutsu)-Nara One-day Trip
The Great Buddha has been enshrined in Nara, a former capital city, since 752. Its size is 15m in height. You can imagine how people built such a great statue 1300 years ago. You can enjoy the infinite philosophy of Buddhisim in the ancient city of Nara.
Great Buddha (Daibutsu)-Nara One-day Trip
Reviews
Anna R.
“Very nice tour!”
Kenji was such a such a kind guide and was able to take us around, not just to the places that he had planned for the tour, but to find a couple things that we were looking for. He also was super helpful because I lost my jacket and he filed out the lost and found paperwork for me! Kenji is very easy to work with, will work around thing/places that you want to go, and took us to a really great place for lunch that we would have never found without him! Thank you, Kenji!
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Kenji O.
Anna, Thanks for your message. I hope you have a safe and fun trip. Please stay in touch with me while you’re staying in Japan. Kenji
Luis T.
“Great way to know Kyoto’s alleys and less know but still great attractions ”
Kenji showed enthusiasm and knowledge of the city alleys. He pointed to interesting things along the way and held a good rithm all the way.
Kenji O.
Luis san, Kyoto has a lot of hidden gems. I hope you to come here again. Please say hi to other members including your wife. Kenji
Magnus K.
“Unforgettable First Visit to Kyoto with Kenji san as My Guide”
As it was my first time in Kyoto, I decided to hire a guide to make the most of my visit. From the very beginning, Kenji impressed me with his professionalism and attention to detail in planning the tour. He carefully crafted an itinerary that perfectly matched my wishes and requirements for the day. What truly set Kenji apart was his exceptional knowledge and ability to share insights about Kyoto’s history, culture, and hidden gems. Throughout the tour, he explained fascinating details that I would never have discovered on my own. His accommodating and helpful nature made the experience not only informative but also very enjoyable. The day ended with a lunch that was absolutely unforgettable - one of the best culinary experiences I’ve ever had. Kenjis thoughtfulness in organizing every aspect of the tour made this visit to Kyoto an amazing and enriching experience. If you’re considering hiring a guide in Kyoto, I can wholeheartedly recommend Kenji. He will elevate your experience and ensure your time in Kyoto is as special as it can possibly be.
Kenji O.
Magnus san, thank you for the review. I hope you visit Kyoto again and I look forward to guiding you and your wife for other hidden places. Have a safe journey! Kenji
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Syed atif Y.
A Local Friend in Kansai — Meet Atif Hey there! I’m Atif, a travel lover who’s been calling Osaka home for the past few years. What started as a curious adventure quickly turned into a deep love for this region — the food, the people, and all the little hidden corners that make Kansai so special. Now, I spend my days sharing those discoveries with travelers who want to see the real Japan — not just the postcard version. What I Offer Fun & Flexible Tours: No boring scripts here! I plan each tour around you — whether you love taking photos, tasting street food, exploring quiet temples, or getting lost in neon-lit backstreets. Local Secrets: After years of wandering Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe, I’ve found the best hidden gems — from tiny noodle shops to peaceful gardens and back-alley shrines. Laughs & Memories: My tours aren’t just about facts — they’re about fun. Expect stories, local legends, and maybe even a karaoke challenge (if you’re brave enough)! Why Travel with Me Because travel should feel like exploring with a local friend, not following a flag in a crowd. I love good food, spontaneous detours, and showing people the Kansai that most tourists miss. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, I’ll make sure you experience something new — and unforgettable. Let’s Start the Adventure! Ready to explore Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, or Kobe? Let’s laugh, learn, eat, and wander together — Kansai style!
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