Joined 2015
Available Areas
Hyogo, Kyoto (Living), Nara, Osaka, Kobe, Himeji
Languages
English, Japanese
Response Time
15 hours on average
Availability Updated
--
Hi I'm Kenji
I have a government license of tour guide interpreter in English.
I was born and raised in Kyoto, an old capital of Japan over one thousand years
So I'm very familiar with many sightseeing spots and attractions of the city
Kyoto is a fascinating and picturesque city drawing lots of foreign tourists every year
I can show you around not only popular historical sites and relics
but also its various attractions such us Zen silent meditation, traditional sweets cooking,
kimono-clad walking and so on.
I can also provide tailored tours fitting to your liking.
I like a famous Zen phrase "Ichigo Ichie" meaning "Treasure every encounter
for it will never recur"
So I always try to enjoy guiding every tourist with my best hospitality.
Zen concepts have greatly influenced many aspects of Japanese culture
I will explain some of them and allow you to explore Zen world through some of my tours
Please contact me any time.
I'm looking forward to seeing you and spending wonderful time with you.
See you soon !
I can customize any private tour if you give me the information of your request in advance.
All tours can be customized for you. Send me a message with your requests!
Paige A.
“Charming guide in Kyoto”
We couldn’t have had a more kind and charming guide in Kenji. This was our first time in Kyoto, and he took us on a wonderful journey of the key highlights. Our 13-year old also appreciated the insights, and Kenji made sure to find things at the different historical sites that a teenager might be most interested in. We highly recommend Kenji!
Kenji M.
Paige san, Thank you for your great review of my highlight tour in Kyoto. I'm very glad that you and your family liked my guiding and various historical sites we visited even in the hottest day. Your review will motivate me to try to enjoy more next tour. If you have another chance to visit Kyoto, please let me know so as to offer any tour to meet your needs. Arigatogozaimashita, Kenji
Coralee A.
“Great Tour of Kyoto”
This was our first visit to Kyoto and we had an ambitious sightseeing plan for our time in Kyoto. Kenji made it not only possible but truly enjoyable. From the start, he was very responsive and worked with us to design a tour that included all the locations we wanted to visit. When we met him at our hotel, he gave us a clear, well-organized schedule that made the most of our day while keeping a comfortable pace. Kenji brought along visual aids and informative handouts that provided valuable context about each temple and shrine we visited, as well as insights into Shinto and Buddhism. These resources were especially helpful in bridging any language gaps and gave us a much deeper understanding of Kyoto’s rich cultural sites. Kenji’s planning was impeccable — he timed our visits so that we could experience popular spots without the crowds. For example, when we arrived at the Bamboo Forest, it was nearly empty, which made it even more special. Throughout the day, Kenji expertly guided us from the southeast to the northwest of Kyoto, covering all our must-see spots efficiently and without feeling rushed or tired. We truly appreciated his knowledge, thoughtful planning, and the care he took to make sure we had an unforgettable day in Kyoto. We highly recommend Kenji to anyone looking to explore Kyoto with an insightful and well-prepared guide!
Kenji M.
Your Reply Coralee-san, What a wonderful review of tour you gave me! I'm very glad to hear that you liked my guiding at each spot and preparation for our tour. Despite of rather tight schedule filled with six popular tourist destinations, we managed to complete all of them with your cooperation as scheduled. It was my great pleasure that I could guide you and your nice family so enjoyably. It will also make me more proactive to next tour. Arigatogozaimashita, Kenji
Keith W.
“Great tour”
My son and I had a great experience in Himeji with Kenji. He was prompt and professional the whole time, and went the extra mile to meet us at the door of our Shinkansen car upon arrival at Himeji station. He was responsive throughout the day when we requested to ride a taxi, walk, what to have for lunch, etc. His knowledge of Himeji castle was especially informative as he walked us through the tour, and we enjoyed our time together!
Kenji M.
Keith-san, Thank you for your great review of our Himeji tour. I'm very glad that I could guide you both Japan's No. 1 impregnable fortress and mysterious sanctuary of authentic Buddhist temple complex in a mountain in Hemeji blessed with a fine weather. With your cooperation we could manage to finish our limited 6-hour tour on time as scheduled. It was so enjoyable for me to spend a wonderful time with you and your son. I look forward to next chance to guide you in future. Arigatogozaimashita, Kenji