Joined 2023
Kanae O.
Available Areas
Kyoto (Living), Shiga
Languages
English, Japanese (Native)
Response Time
7 hours on average
Availability Updated
3 days ago
About Tour Guide Kanae O.
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.
Tours
All tours can be customized for you. Send me a message with your requests!
Categories
Kyoto Early Bird Highlights with Car Service
Join me on this tour as we explore five of Kyoto's must-see sights, starting early to beat the crowds. You'll enjoy the convenience of transportation between locations, with your knowledgeable guide driving you to each site. This allows you to save valuable time and energy for fully immersing yourself in the beauty and history of each location.
Serene Temples with enchanting Gardens Tour
Are you tired of the crowds at all the popular tourist sites in Kyoto? Join me on an excursion to my favorite region, Ohara, located in the northeastern part of the city, where you can experience the tranquil countryside ambiance. In Ohara, I will introduce you to three of the most charming temples, each offering a serene atmosphere and enchanting gardens in every season. Upon request, I can also take you to a local restaurant where you can savor traditional cuisine.
Another Side of Kyoto: Exploring Uji and Wazuka – Home of Japanese Green Tea
This tour will show you a different side of Kyoto—peaceful, uncrowded, and surrounded by nature. We will explore the Uji area, often called the 'Kyoto of Green Tea,' where you can admire the breathtaking scenery of tea plantations. Along the way, we’ll visit Byodo-in Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as Shojyuin Temple, a small yet charming gem.
Kyoto Early Bird Trekking Ending with Ramen
Departing from Kyoto City Subway’s Keage Station, we will pass by Himukai Daijingu Shrine before making our way towards Mt. Daimonjiyama. As we ascend to the mountain's peak, you'll be greeted with panoramic views of Kyoto, stretching as far as Osaka. After descending towards Imadegawa Street, our journey will conclude at a charming local ramen restaurant.
Kyoto Fushimi Sake & Food Tasting Experience
After visiting the renowned Fushimi Inari Shrine, we will explore some of the sake breweries in the Fushimi area, known for its long history of sake brewing in Kyoto. You’ll enjoy exploring the local neighborhood while tasting sake and sampling delicious food.
Reviews
Amanda C.
“Review on day trip in Shiga region (Lake Biwa)”
My best friend and myself were lucky enough to secure kanae to be our guide. She was very friendly and did a great itinerary with little notice. Despite weather was not the best, we had a great time visiting hikone castle and walked around local town, in addition we were taken to shinmachi area with preserved and restored old house. We were lucky to be able to view exhibition of dolls for “girls festival”. She also took us to la Collina bakery as a surprise. It was like a futuristic building. She was very kind, professional and considerate. We had a great time discussing different interesting facts and challenges within Japan. She was kind enough to give us tips of places to visit the following day and we ended up going to a special exhibition featuring lights and shadows of flowers and butterflies. We would definitely ask for her again if we ever want to visit this area again.
Kanae O.
Amanda, thank you so much for your wonderful review! It was a pleasure guiding both of you through Hikone and Ohmi-Hachiman, despite the weather. I’m so glad you enjoyed the tour. It’s great to hear that my recommendation helped you for the beautiful light and shadow exhibition the next day. I’d be delighted to guide you again if you return—there’s always more to explore!
Sonali M.
“Lovely day with Kanae”
We spent a lovely day with Kanae seeing around Kyoto . She was extremely friendly and flexible . She had good knowledge about Japanese culture and speaks good English . Highly recommended!
Kanae O.
Sonali, thank you for your kind words! I am delighted to hear that you had a wonderful time exploring Kyoto. I truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you again for another memorable journey in Japan!
Regine D.
“Perfect Guide”
Kana was absolutely wonderful, really trying to figure out what I wanted to do. I would recommend her highly. We both love cooking and I even got tips on the Japanese way of cooking.
Kanae O.
Regine, thank you so much for your kind words! I’m so glad we could tailor the experience to your interests and that we got to share our love for cooking. It was a pleasure spending time with you, and I truly appreciate your recommendation. Wishing you many more wonderful adventures and happy cooking!
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Koichi W.
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.
