/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/67539/f7264a03-f1f1-4b99-a5a4-2a41730bb27b.jpg)
Osaka Castle
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/67539/44f35ea8-470e-4b9e-b2b6-55a795cde316.jpg)
Kinkakuji
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/67539/d2fef61d-2e1b-4efe-89aa-33a7a4d9474e.jpg)
Tōdai-ji
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/67539/0bead24d-b290-4f3b-8e36-64cbf3a5c52a.png)
Joined 2025
Marcelo M.
5.00 / 5
(1 reviews)
Identity Verified
Interview-Based Quality Checks
Date
People
Available Areas
Kyoto, Nara, Osaka (Living), Kobe
Languages
English (Native), Japanese, Spanish (Native)
Response Time
7 hours on average
Availability Updated
3 days ago
About Tour Guide Marcelo M.
Maru is from San Diego California. Has been in Japan over a decade. Maru has come for the love of video games and anime. Enticed by the beauty of Japanese art. Maru is happy to share Japanese food and quirky cultural differences to take unique memories back home.
Maru es de San Diego California. Lleva en Japón más de una década. Maru llegó por su amor a los video juegos y el anime. Seducido por la belleza del arte Japonés, está feliz de compartir la comida Japonesa y las peculiares diferencias culturales para que puedan llevarse recuerdos únicos a casa.
Important
Flexible schedule all week from 10AM to 8PM
Notifications in advance are preferred to adjust time slots accordingly.
Tours
All tours can be customized for you. Send me a message with your requests!
Categories
/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/categories/48/highlights-white.svg)
Highlights
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/17948/192a01be-db79-4d73-a88f-0e85eb4d91de.jpg)
Kyoto
5 hours
Essential Kyoto: Half-Day
Embark on a journey through Fushimi Inari Taisha where the spiritual Torii gates weave a path through sacred forest trails. Stroll the streets of Gion District the legendary Geisha Quarter while making way toward the hidden Power Spot and absorb its mystical energy. Take the plunge atop the Kiyomizu-dera Temple of Pure Water offering breathtaking panoramic views of Kyoto. Transport back into time through the maze of Historical Whispers and finish at Yasaka-jinja the Guardian Shrine of Gion.
Essential Kyoto: Half-Day
FROM$112/ per group
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18798/2f0b33ab-8d2b-419b-a31e-7c715e8a3185.jpg)
Kobe
5 hours
Essential Kobe: Half-Day
Begin at Ikuta Shrine, nestled quietly amid a modern city. Then stroll through Center Plaza 3 / Motomachi Shopping Street, local shops, fashion, and sweets. Explore Nankinmachi, filled with the scent of sizzling street food. Head toward the waterfront and visit Meriken Park. Reflect at the Earthquake Memorial and continue to wrap up at Kobe Harborland Mosaic, a lively seaside complex with shops, restaurants, and panoramic views of the bay; perfect for a relaxing meal or romantic sunset stroll.
Essential Kobe: Half-Day
FROM$112/ per group
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18070/565c5020-febd-4fbb-8ac7-3ed07fb870cc.jpg)
Osaka
5 hours
Essential Osaka: Half-Day
Explore Osaka Castle's warrior era standing in the heart of a modern metropolis. Draw into the vibrant trendsetting hub Amerikamura premier fashion. Dazzle through neon lights at Namba Dotonbori an electric wonderland. Tuck away into a hidden alley and splash water over the Wisdom King. Venture where culinary magic begins at Kitchenware Street. Sample grilling delicacies served for over a century at Kuromon Market. Dive into a touch of nostalgia and old school entertainment at New World.
Essential Osaka: Half-Day
FROM$112/ per group
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18791/ef565862-d6d1-4415-bf45-8afbf27b5275.jpg)
Nara
5 hours
Essential Nara: Half-Day
Discover Tranquility and Tradition in Nara. Step into the ancient capital, where sacred deer roam freely at the park and centuries of history whisper through temple walls. Marvel at the Great Buddha inside Tōdaiji, enjoy sweeping views from Nigatsudō, and feel the spiritual grace of lanterns at Kasuga Taisha. Then stroll through the shopping street for local snacks and souvenirs.
Essential Nara: Half-Day
FROM$112/ per group
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18797/a668738a-be2f-402d-99e1-920326180975.jpg)
Nara
8 hours
Ultimate Nara: Ancient Adventure
Step into Japan’s ancient capital, where sacred deer roam freely and centuries of Fujiwara dominance whisper through temple walls housing a majestic Buddha. Explore a traditional garden showcasing three styles. Marvel at the Great Buddha in Tōdaiji, enjoy the views from Nigatsudō, and feel the spiritual grace of lanterns at Kasuga Taisha. Stroll through the bustling Higashimuki Street for snacks and souvenirs, and slow down in the preserved district of old merchant homes, cafés, and hidden art.
Ultimate Nara: Ancient Adventure
FROM$762/ per group
Reviews
C
Casey M.
5 / 5
Jun 14, 2025
“Kyoto Tour”
Marcelo was easy to communicate with as I was trying to figure out how to make the most of our time in Kyoto. He put together a custom tour and even added in some unexpected highlights as he got to know us throughout the day. Although he was not born in Japan, he had great knowledge of the country and culture.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/67539/0bead24d-b290-4f3b-8e36-64cbf3a5c52a.png)
Marcelo M.
Casey M, Thanks for joining your experience in Japan. Glad you enjoyed your stay in Kyoto. A pleasure to service you.
Other Popular Tour Guides in Osaka
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/73533/cbed366f-4782-4507-aed1-83e875b0d4ea.png)
Japan
Rina K.
5.00 / 5
(7 reviews)
5.00 / 5
(7 reviews)
Welcome to Osaka! Hi I'm Rina and I’m truly delighted to guide you through the vibrant city of Osaka. As a native Japanese, I offer a personal perspective on Japan’s rich culture, traditions, and everyday life. Wherever you’d like to go, I’d be honored to help you make it happen. Feel free to reach out—I’d be happy to create a custom itinerary based on your interests. As your guide, I’ll take care of the details, so you can simply relax and enjoy the day at your own pace. ***************************************** What we can enjoy together (if you’d like): • Wander through peaceful backstreets and discover hidden local gems • Visit high-quality “Made in Japan” shops for thoughtful souvenirs • Enjoy delicious food—from street snacks to refined local cuisine • Learn the stories behind temples, shrines, and everyday customs • Explore at your pace, with a route designed to avoid crowds and long walks • Have quiet cultural moments—like folding a simple origami piece or learning a local phrase • Ask anything! I’m happy to help with travel tips, cultural questions, or just good conversation Every tour is personal. I’ll take care of the details—so you can simply enjoy Japan, your way.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/80466/d66e7dc5-1de8-450c-af34-0b31639b7a1e.png)
Japan
Akira F.
5.00 / 5
(11 reviews)
5.00 / 5
(11 reviews)
Hello, my name is Akira , and I am a private guide based in Kyoto. I specialize in creating customized tours that are tailored to your interests and travel style. Kyoto is a city rich in history, culture, and hidden beauty, and I would love to share its charm with you. Whether you are interested in famous landmarks like Kiyomizu-dera and Fushimi Inari, exploring peaceful temples and gardens, or discovering local food and traditions, I will design a unique itinerary just for you. My goal is to make your time in Kyoto not only enjoyable, but also meaningful and memorable. I look forward to guiding you and helping you experience Kyoto like a local.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/69610/c49801c3-752f-4733-905c-f0c443200719.png)
Japan
Syed atif Y.
5.00 / 5
(7 reviews)
5.00 / 5
(7 reviews)
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!
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/46733/f91fb200-8cd3-42eb-ab83-22445375e494.png)
Japan
Shuji O.
4.93 / 5
(55 reviews)
4.93 / 5
(55 reviews)