GoWithGuideFind your perfect tour guide at GoWithGuide. Relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. Create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip!
GoWithGuide
GoWithGuideFind your perfect tour guide at GoWithGuide. Relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. Create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip!
Shiga Private Tour -
Shiga Private Tour -
Shiga Private Tour -
Shiga Private Tour -
Shiga Private Tour -
Shiga Private Tour -
Shiga Private Tour -
Shiga Private Tour -
Shiga Private Tour -
Shiga Private Tour -
Shiga Private Tour -
Shiga Private Tour -
Shiga Private Tour -
Tour Guide - Taka M.

Joined 2023

Taka M.

5.00 / 5
(9 reviews)
Identity Verified
Interview-Based Quality Checks
GoWithGuideFind your perfect tour guide at GoWithGuide. Relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. Create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip!

Available Areas

Kyoto, Shiga (Living)

GoWithGuideFind your perfect tour guide at GoWithGuide. Relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. Create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip!

Languages

Japanese (Native), English

GoWithGuideFind your perfect tour guide at GoWithGuide. Relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. Create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip!

Response Time

3 hours on average

GoWithGuideFind your perfect tour guide at GoWithGuide. Relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. Create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip!

Availability Updated

--

About Tour Guide Taka M.

My name is Taka. I was born and grew up in Koka City, Japan, where the world famous Koka Ninja’s birthplace is. Koka City is just one hour away from JR Kyoto station by train. As a matter of fact, I am a descendant of Ninja/local Samurai. My family name represents the most powerful Ninja/local Samurai clan among the Koka’s 53 Ninja clans. There are twin Castles of my ancestors in my neighborhood.

When I was a college student, I was interested in foreign languages and cultures, and I studied abroad at a university in Ohio, USA as an exchange student for one year. After graduating from a Japanese college with a BA in English, I worked for a prefectural government for 31 years, and I made an early retirement in March 2023. During my service to the government, I was chosen as a Visiting Official in Michigan, USA, which is a sister state of my prefecture, and I stayed there for 2 years as the government’s representative. I have totally 3 years of living experience in the USA, and am able to speak English now.


Since I am retired from the government, I decided to start a new career as a Ninja tour guide for foreign travelers in my hometown. There are Ninja House, over 180 medieval Ninja related castles, shrines, temples, Ninja’s training mountains, and more in Koka, however no one had done the tour guide for foreigners until now. As I am able to speak English, I thought I should start a new job as a Ninja tour guide, and would like to contribute to my hometown Koka.

Reviews

Personalized and Peaceful Kyoto Tour with Taka

I had an amazing private tour in Kyoto with Taka. He took me to all the beautiful and iconic spots, along with some hidden gems that were off the beaten path, like the hydroelectric power plant. It made for a unique and peaceful experience away from the usual tourist traps. We enjoyed a lovely lunch together and spent the entire day walking through the charming streets of Kyoto. Taka is not only a kind and personable guide but also very knowledgeable. His English is excellent, and he was incredibly flexible and open to adjusting the tour to suit my interests. If you're looking for an authentic, personalized experience in Kyoto, I highly recommend Taka!

Rein S.

Taka M.

Thank you for your thoughtful words. You have great personality and are easy-going. I had relaxing and enjoyable time with you during the tour. I wish I will visit you in your country someday in the future.

Wow - what an awesome guide!

Taka! Where do we begin? He is incredible - as a guide and as a person. We are so lucky to have found Taka and to get an awesome tour with him. He helped us find secret hidden gem experiences that we will never forget. He became a true friend and shared his wealth of knowledge and experience with us. We were endlessly impressed with Taka and highly recommend him should you find yourself lucky to have him as a guide. Thank you Taka!!

Kimberly H.

Taka M.

Thank you very much for the great review. I was impressed how you set up your company and grew your business. I had really good time with you, especially you invited me to a bar restaurant after the tour. Thank you for the beer too. Cheers to you!

Highlights with Taka M

Taka came to our hotel on time and well prepared for our day.We only wanted to do the highlights with no shopping . It was an extremely hot day sights were seen with stops on the way . What an extremely pleasant man , knowledgeable of his surroundings perfect English and fun to spend time with , seriously recommended

Samantha T.

Taka M.

Thank you for the nice review. I enjoyed talking with you very much and learned a lot from you about your country. I hope someday I may visit you in your country.

Other Popular Tour Guides in Shiga

Shiga Tour Guide - Nori I.

Nori I.

5.00 / 5
(39 reviews)
Japan

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. Originally from Nagoya, I cover areas around the city and 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!                                                                                                                                 

Kyoto Tour Guide - Kanae O.

Kanae O.

5.00 / 5
(27 reviews)
Japan

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.                                                                                                                                 

Shiga Tour Guide - Mana F.

Mana F.

4.86 / 5
(91 reviews)
Japan

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 . I am good at walking. 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!                                                                                                                                  

Shiga Tour Guide - Kazuhiko G.

Kazuhiko G.

4.78 / 5
(187 reviews)
Japan

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!!