japanese local tour guide

Travel deeper with a Local Guide

Book japan's authentic small group tours by locals.

As recommended by 99% of TripAdvisor users

Find Local Tours in Japan

Tours in Tokyo

Tokyo Bar Hopping Night Tour in Shinjuku

An introduction to Izakaya food & drink culture

Sushi & Sake Tasting Cooking Class with a Visit to Local Supermarket in Tokyo

Shop in a local supermarket and learn how to cook Sushi & Japanese traditional dishes

Shibuya Bar Hopping Night Tour in Tokyo

Taste all kinds of Japanese meat in the lively nightlife district of Tokyo

Authentic Sumo Experience in Tokyo : Enter the Sanctuary

Immerse yourself in the deep culture of sumo and discover the secrets of wrestlers' strength.

Akihabara Anime & Gaming Adventure Tour

Classic games, friendly maids and the anime world all await you!

[Tokyo Skytree Town] Watch Sumo Wrestler's Morning Practice in Oshiage

Watch real sumo morning training with a local guide

Tours in Kyoto

Kyoto Bar Hopping Nightlife Tour in Pontocho

Pub crawl through the hidden local izakaya bars & eateries in Pontocho at night

Dinner with Maiko in a Traditional Kyoto Style Restaurant Tour

Journey into mysterious world of Maiko in Gion, Kyoto

Kyoto Night Foodie Tour

Dive into the Kyoto's food culture at hidden restaurants in Gion & Pontocho

Kyoto Sake Brewery & Tasting Tour in Fushimi

Have a sake adventure: learn the history, taste many kinds, and visit Kyoto's major brewery district

Fushimi Inari Hidden Hiking Tour

Kyoto's No.1 Fushimi Inari tour, through a hidden hiking trail up the mountain.

Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo forest & Garden Half-Day Walking Tour

Travel deeper into Arashiyama's villa landscapes, beautiful Japanese gardens, and a bamboo forest with a local guide

Why Choose Magical Trip?

Meet the heart of magical trip.

Our exclusive local guides. Elevate your journey with a unique travel experience that's bound to be your trip's highlight!

Experience intimate tours at Magical Trip.

Connect personally with locals, talented guides, and fellow adventurers for spontaneous, script-free journeys enriched by friendly local insights.

Unlock genuine local experiences with Magical Trip's Guides.

Escape tourist traps, immerse in authentic neighborhood activities, and forge connections that turn strangers into friends. Travel like a local, return with lasting memories.

Tours in Osaka

Osaka Bar Hopping Night Tour in Namba

Indulge in Osaka's Food & Nightlife at Hidden Pubs

Kuromon Market Walking Street Food Tour in Osaka

Eating up local's favorite street-foods

4-Hour Osaka Highlights Bike Tour with Lunch

Cycle around the magnificent Osaka castle area

Osaka Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai

Try Osaka's must-eat foods

Tours in Hiroshima

Hiroshima Bar Hopping Food Tour

Taste Hiroshima's foods in one night at the biggest nightlife district in Hiroshima!

Hiroshima Peace (Heiwa) Walking Tour at World Heritage Sites

Get insights into Hiroshima's Past, Present and Future from Hiroshima Locals

Miyajima Half-day Trip Historical Walking Tour

Take a cultural highlights tour of the beautiful Miyajima island in Hiroshima.

Joined by Travelers Across the World

Travel Deeper with Local Guides

Connect with the local community on a personal level by getting to know our talented guides!

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Featured by top medias around the world!

Private Custom Guided Tours

Discover Japan with a bilingual English-speaking tour guide

This way please

Tokyo The Magnetic Capital

Kyoto the traditional city, airport guidance for your first steps in japan, hiroshima & miyajima, behind-the-scenes japan.

Our certified English-speaking tour guides, all based in Japan, will help you enhance your travel experience . Keikaku’s local guides are experienced and speak fluent Japanese and English. They will act as your interpret during the visit, offering meaningful insights to understand Japan and its inhabitants, connect with Japanese people, read signs and restaurants menus, or explain customs and cultural specificities.

A Budget Under Control

Booking a personal guide is possible from one year and up to 5 days before the desired date .

Important notice: for peak seasons (April, August and October) especially, we recommend booking at your earliest convenience to make sure a guide will be available during your travel in Japan.

Your guide’s financial autonomy is ensured within the scope of a classical guided tour: they will provide for their own transportation, meals and scheduled activities (temples, gardens, museum, etc.).

The tour duration is your choice (from half a day and up to 3 consecutive days, or evening tour) from ~$56 per person for a couple.

Be it a first or umpteenth trip, alone or in group, whatever your age. Groups and younger travelers can even get discounts :

All guides at Keikaku, regardless of their country of origin, are bilingual Japanese and English-speaking, certified, dedicated to our customers’ service and have been living in Japan for a long time.

They can answer precisely your questions and also assist you in most of procedures in Japan (buying train tickets, exchange JR Pass, send postcard at the post office or luggage delivery by private companies, etc.)

A Tailor-Made Experience

Before your arrival in Japan, the guide will design an “à la carte” (custom) tour, according to the preferences you indicated when booking. As soon as we have validated your booking, you will be able to discuss with your guide to create your personal sightseeing tour. On the tour day, the guide can meet you at your hotel if you wish so, at the time that suits you best!

Know Japan beyond clichés:

• Discover cities under a new approach , closer to their reality;
• Explore places hidden to tourists , good and sometimes original picture spots;
• Save time thanks to the locals’ experience who know Japan like the back of their hand;
• Enjoy your visit without worrying about planning or how to get there.

Step out the usual stereotyped guided tour and explore narrow streets, hidden gems, find the good restaurants that only appear on Japanese maps... Visit a Japan that no Western travel guide can describe!

Touring in the most popular places of Tokyo or Kyoto with our guides is naturally also possible

The tour you booked is completely private . You will not share your guide with unknown people, for more comfort and privacy.

You guide is dedicated to you or your group (couple, friends, family, etc.) and will offer suggestions during the tour according to the time of the year, the weather and your pace.

Japan Private Tours

Our fully guided Japan private tours combine the top destinations and sightseeing spots featured on our best-selling tour packages customized to your style of travel at affordable prices. We are Japanese travel experts who know what you need, to turn your Japan dreams into amazing experiences. Whether you're planning a family vacation, a company incentive travel, or a business trip to Japan, our private Japan tours are the best choice.

Your local guide or private drive will happily take you to see the sights for which Japan is famous -Tokyo's splendid Imperial Palace, the ancient city of Kyoto, or the impressive Mount Fuji . All the private tour itineraries are adjustable, and the flexible departures make private Japan tours a perfect choice for travelers from overseas. All of our private tour packages can be personalized around your budget and other requests. Our private English-speaking local guides and drivers ensure you to enjoy the real Japan in a hassle-free and flexible way. In addition, we also offer affordable group tours for travelers from overseas. Our Japan travel experts will give you dedicated support during your trip. Look no further – following is our most popular Japan private tour itineraries.

Most Frequently Asked Questions

•  Will I be traveling with people from other countries? If you join our group tours, there are travelers from other countries, and if you buy the Private Tour Packages, will only have people from your party. You will have your private driver, vehicle and even your private local guide.
•  How do I make a reservation of private tours in Tokyo? First, choose your favorite itinerary, then contact our specialists to book your vacation. You will get a quote within 24 Hours. Once you have decided on a private tour, please send an email to indicate your acceptance of our offer. After making the payment, you will receive an invoice as the receipt from us shortly.
•  What are the departure dates for the private tour packages? There are no set departure dates for the private tour packages, that means you can depart on whatever day you prefer.
•  Can the tour itineraries on your website be modified and customized? Yes, you can. These suggested itineraries are based on our own experience, you can ch tailor it to meet your need.
•  How long should I stay for a basic private Tokyo tour? We think two or three full days are necessary for first-time foreign travelers to arrange a Tokyo city tour. Here is the most popular way of exploring the city. Have one full day to visit the Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi. Another full day is for city highlights sightseeing including the Imperial Palace, Senso-ji Buddhist Temple, Tokyo Tower and Ginza. If you have ample time, you can schedule one more day to visit the Meiji Shrine, Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Kabukichou Shinjuku and other famous spots.
•  How long should I stay for a basic private Tokyo tour package? We think two or three full days are necessary for first-time travelers to arrange a Tokyo local tour. Here is the most popular itinerary. Have one full day to visit Mount Fuji and the Lake Ashi. Another full day is for city highlights sightseeing including the Imperial Palace, the Nijubashi Bridge, Senso-ji Buddhist Temple, Nakamise-Dori Street and Tokyo Sky Tree. If you have ample time, you can schedule one more day to visit the Meiji Shrine, Tokyo Tower Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Shibuya Scramble Crossing, and other famous sightseeing spots.
•  How to choose from Small Group Tours and Private Trips? You can get the best value by joining in our small Group tours. But the itineraries are fixed. Our private Japan tour itineraries are designed for families. If you are looking for something special or if you do not like to travel with others, the Private Tours are the best choice.
•  Does your quotation include tipping for guide and driver? The prices do not include Gratuities and Tips for your local guide and driver. If the guide and driver's services meet or even go beyond your expectation, you can choose to tip them accordingly.
• Rosalind Wong  Travel Date：April. 15th 2024 Travel Route: 7 days to travel out of Tokyo to the north of Honshu I booked Japan Holiday for a car and driver for 7 days to travel out of Tokyo to the north of Honshu. Our group of 8 fitted into the 9- seater comfortably with luggage in April 2024. I planned the itinerary with their rep Lydia, who was always prompt and helpful with her replies and suggestions. She was quick to respond to queries which made the overall planning and booking process easier. The guide and driver Snake-San was wonderful, on time and accommodating. Everything was done professionally and we had a wonderful time. The price of the private tour was very reasonable as well. We were very happy with the service. I would recommend this company.
• Anthony Lobo  Travel Date：Feb. 19th 2024 Travel Route: Narita Airport Private Transfer Service We used the driving service for our first trip to Japan, and it could not have gone smoother. It was easy to find and meet our driver when we arrived at the airport and when we were picked up to head back to the airport. I would definitely recommend this service for any first timers. Honestly, it took the stress out of traveling to and from the airport and easily accommodated my family of 5. Communication was easy and everyone was extremely helpful/friendly. If you are concerned about using the subway system for the first time, I’d use this driving service to ease your mind.  
• Glen Saro  Travel Date：Feb. 8th 2024 Travel Route: Hakuba Bus Tour from Tokyo Japan Holiday Transport and Chauffeur. We booked several transfers within Japan, Firstly, from the Airport to our accommodation in Tokyo and then to and from Hakuba. Their buses and bus drivers were always on time and comfortable for our party of 13 people + luggage. Great experience. Driver was very safe and polite. He was professional and able to guide/explain about Hakuba. It was snowy and Safety is the upmost important. Lydia from their office was always polite and she also responded within 24 hours. Trustworthy company with local knowledge.
• Lydia Cheam  Travel Date：January 25th 2024 Travel Route: Hakone Day Tour My family and I took an 8/9 hours transportation/tour of Hakone with Japan Holiday, and they were amazing! Our driver was very gentle, helpful and thoughtful :) we were traveling with an infant and elderly parents, and he would inform us if the weather seemed colder and that he would wait nearby if we wanted to run back into the car quickly, or he would head over to the restaurants/tea house to check if they were open before letting us out. Really appreciated it! Also, James was very responsive and helpful when coordinating our travels prior to the trip. Thanks so much and would definitely book again when we need a tour/transport!  
• Sandeep Khosla  Travel Date：November 26th 2023 Travel Route: Osaka-Hakuba-Kyoto-Tokyo Please convey our gratitude to the company that employs him. And thank you for making wonderful arrangements for us. We have already told many of our friends and relatives about your company and excellent service.   We were reasonably satisfied with the return trip. I used this service for a business day trip meeting from Tokyo to Hakone. prompt service!  on time!  and thanks to them I had a good meeting and got back to Tokyo in time for business dinner meeting. thank you!   We are in awe of Japanese culture and hospitality. We will surely be returning for another trip.   Many thanks again  

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Local Tour Guides

Private Tours & Visits

Japan Top Destinations & Visits

Plan your trip with private guides

Explore Japan’s destinations and travel highlights with your own private tour guide and enjoy a customized sightseeing tour suited to your personal tastes.

Our most popular visits

Tokyo & kyoto car tours – sightseeing in comfort, japan food – spirit of washoku, kyoto – heritage and tradition, tokyo – the harmony of modernity and tradition, visits in tokyo, sumo morning training – rikishi insider, izakaya & sake pub crawl – kanpai tokyo, japan early bird – the land of the rising sun, tokyo geek – a very “animated” excursion, nostalgic and old tokyo – the secrets of yanesen, day trips from tokyo, yokohama – western and japanese fusion, nagano jigokudani – rosary blessing and spa loving monkeys, nikko – the jewel tucked in the japanese alps, mount fuji – sacred place and icon of japan, hakone – onsen under the shadow of mount fuji, kamakura – the capital of zen and samurai spirit, visits in kyoto, kyoto gardens – japanese tradition of landscape, mount hiei – the marathon monks of hieizan, kinukake & kinkaku-ji – draped silk and heritage, gion – the birthplace of geisha, fushimi inari – portals to spiritual journey and sake, arashiyama – nature and spiritual hideaway, around kyoto & osaka, kobe – ambling the culinary gateway to the west, uji & wazuka matcha – japan’s hidden teatopia, ise shima – the land of jingu and the gods, himeji – the white heron castle, mount koya – japan’s holiest mountain, nara – the sacred deer capital, osaka – the kitchen of the empire, other cities, otaru and yoichi distillery – hokkaido “on the rocks”, kumamoto – the rise and spirit of the samurai, nagasaki – the foundation of japan’s modernisation, fukuoka – combining gourmet and japanese culture, izumo matsue – the myths and gods of japan, okayama – castle, garden and peach boys, yachting japan’s art islands – seto inland sea “arty-pelago”, naoshima – the surreal japan art island, hiroshima & miyajima – find your peace of mind, my japan guide.

Sanjo-dori Takakura-Higashiiru, 70 Masuyacho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto 604-8111

[email protected] Tel: +81(0)75-585-5818

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Kyoto Private Tours & Local Tour Guides

Discover things to do and plan a trip to kyoto, japan with a local guide.

View all 3248 reviews

Popular Kyoto Tour Guides

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.                                                                                                                                  

I have lived in the US, UK, and India for approximately 20 years, and I’ve also traveled to many other 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!                                                                                                                                  

Hiroyuki T.

Hi! I had been working for Wakayama Prefectural Government for 38 years, mainly in the field of cultural heritage management and international relations. I am a national certificated English guide and I have a lot of knowledge and experience in the field of cultural heritage management and international relations. I am very good at cultural heritages. And Koyasan and Kumano in Wakayama Prefecture are inscribed in the World Heritage List as parts of “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range". I was a project manager of "the Koyasan and Kumano World Heritage Inscription Project” at Wakayama Prefectural Government. I know inside and out of Koyasan, Kumano, Wakayama and other places in the Kansai area. I have a lot of experience of guiding as I was also in charge of international relations for a long time at the government. I will be able to provide interpretive guiding service for you around Koyasan, Wakayama, Osaka and other places in the Kansai area as I am a cultural heritage management and international relations professional. I am sure you will be able to get deeper understandings on Japanese culture and that your trip with me will be memorable one.                                                                                                                                  

Yoshihisa T.

Hi. my name is yoshihisa. call me "yoshie", please. it means good or o.k. in japanese. i live in joyo city, kyoto prefecture, located just in between kyoto and nara. i was born and raised in iga, mie prefecture. iga is a birthplace of ninja and a renowned haiku poet, matsuo basho. i might be a descendant of ninja. i aim at becoming a linguistic ninja, following a part of basho's lifestyle with the incorporation of seasonal changes into my tours. in addition to visiting famous temples and shrines, i invite you to lesser-known places of historic interest. once in a month i go hiking or mountain climbing with some friends mainly in mountains surrounding kyoto and nara basins. recently i have got intrigued by the charms of buddhist statues, which are manifestations of people's wishes and prayers. i also like izakaya (japanese-style taverns) hopping, tasting delicious dishes and locally brewed sake at reasonable prices. especially i like communicating with people from home and abroad, talking face to face. some of the above-mentioned elements are included in my walking tours. i hope you will discover new aspects of cultural and natural beauty in kansai area through one of my tours which you could never gain otherwise. one of my favorite phrases that come from zen buddhism is ichigo ichie or this meeting-but only once in a lifetime. my interpretation goes this way: this place and this moment never cross again. each and every good encounter, however, lingers on like the sound of a temple bell. won't you explore a deeper world of japanese culture in kyoto, nara and osaka with me                                                                                                                                  , new kyoto tour guides.

Masayuki I.

My name is masayuki currently living in kyoto. everyone casually calls me massy. i grew up in a bilingual ( english / japanese ) background. i am a new entry in here, but i am already very well experienced in hosting and guiding. i was in canada and u.s. i once took a leading role of an international community as well as being an english teacher. i like to explore things to discover all the hidden beauties and treasures off the beaten path and share with others. i would only show you to the places you really need a guide with no information in english. if you are interested in things truly unique known only to some locals, i am the one. i like to explore in nature and show my footsteps to everyone to discover new hidden ground. it is almost my natural instinct to avoid crowd. i am not into ordinary tourism of kyoto because i don't want to be another one of them doing the same guide in kyoto. i want to show you to a true state of sacred and beauty which is unharmed by commercialization and over-tourism. my itinerary cuts off overrated attractions from the view point of a local. in kyoto i mostly write about places never been introduced in english. i am not a licensed tour guide interpreter, but i have different field of knowledge to introduce things. i am more of an english-hosting guide without strict business manner. i am a professional in writing introduction pages mainly for north parts of kyoto in english. i would like to take you to some adventurous tour while i am still active enough to do this. the courses are my own creation since i am the original one to write in english. i am a very open and friendly person who can communicate in english nearly as good as a native speaker. my wife is from ukraine often assisting me to host my guests.                                                                                                                                  .

Kazuyoshi M.

I am a guide working mainly in osaka and kyoto. i can provide travel guidance to places where foreigners do not usually go. i can also guide you to places popular among foreigners if you want to visit them. i have lived in osaka for 7 years, so i am a specialist in sightseeing in osaka. i can also guide sightseeing in kyoto, as it is my favorite city to visit. i look forward to having an enjoyable trip with you.                                                                                                                                  .

Experience the essence of Kyoto and its captivating culture on my essential walking tour. Immerse yourself in the heart of this beautiful city and gain a profound understanding of its rich heritage. I'm a licensed National Tour Conductor with 26 years living in Japan.                                                                                                                                  

Hello I'm Minori. Kyoto is a popular destination so you might look for deeper place of it. My area is Yamashina, where you pass when traveling Shiga. It has beautiful mountains and water, also its temples and shrines are less crowded. It's a good place for those who have visited famous sites already. I used to work at travel agency so I had chances to company a group tour with a guide and it was an amazing experience that I could see people actually having a fun. I also worked in a hotel and learned how important hospitality is to make guests feel comfortable. I teach kids English so I would like to show them how rewarding and proud it is to show people around our beautiful countries, and English would be helpful in many ways. Let’s go and see beautiful Kyoto and experience some of the best attractions here with me!                                                                                                                                  

Popular kyoto private tours.

1 day special customized tour in Kyoto

Kyoto has many beautiful places to visit. i especially would like to take you to the most exciting spots in kyoto in 1 day. please pick a few of the options from the following sightseeing places and i will take you as many places as possible at a reasonable price..

My Favorite Golden Route: Kyoto One-day Tour

This tour is designed for those who would like to visit major scenic sites in kyoto and off-the-beaten spots as well in a single day. the route is the one that has been favored and admired by many of my guests for the past few years. the itinerary mainly consists of three areas; kitayama, arashiyama and fushimi areas. you will surely have unforgettable memories through the tour with me..

Kyoto's most popular sightseeing spots tour and enjoy a various kinds of Kyoto's specialities

This tour covers 3 must-see sites and nishiki market. you can experience the most renownd sites such as the golden pavilion, the rockgarden at ryo-anji temple where you may find an elegant beauty in its simplicity nijo-castle ,the luxurious palace of the tokugawa shoguns. sanjyu-sangendo is one of the three must -see sightseeing spots in kyoto.the thousand life-size statues and the principal statue( height 3.5 meters) lining along the longest corrider in japan , with a length of 120meters or 390 feet make you feel like you are in a forest of buddhas every one who visits this temple says " woow , it's amazing it's awesome it's awful " . lastly visit nishiki market,where you can enjoy kyoto’s specialities such as charming sweets , high quality tohu and sake etc..

The tour covers 4 must-see sites in Kyoto

This tour covers 4 must-see sightseeing spots in kyoto. firstly, we visit fushimi inari shrine. if you walk through in the countless trii-gates in the late evening , you must be feeling getting into a mysterious world. sanjyu-sangendo temple where you can see the magnificient main statue and one thousand life sized kannon statues. every people says " i'ts awesome " "i am in a forest of buddha" kiyomizudera-temple is one of the most oldest and famous temples in kyoto. about 4mllion tourists visit this temple every year lastly, we visit nijyo-jyo castle where you can enjoy the finest architecture and artworks and shogun's private life in the edo period. them we head for gion area or flower town . if you have a good chance, you can meet a maiko-san or a geisya-san walking around the town., new kyoto private tours.

Kyoto Murasakino ( Daitokuji ) to Kamigamo tour ( peaceful tour with no hassle with crowd )

This comfortable way is highly recommended for seniors who are looking for peace and tranquility. this is a guide course of visiting my own home town of murasakino area. i know the most efficient way to move around. we are starting our tour from daitokuji temple to imamiya shrine where you can enjoy at the oldest tea house in kyoto. later on, move on to kamigamo by a bus which is never crowded from this point. i'll be showing you to a town-scape of historic kyoto. let's travel in a peace..

Walking Tour of Kiyotaki to Takao ( hidden course of Kyoto from Arashiyama to north )

This is a guide course of visiting takao from north part of arashiyama through toriimoto and kiyotaki. we'll start from walking through an area with a historical landscape before heading toward mountainous area to walk on a riverside trail. it is a beautiful combination of history and nature..

Hozukyo Walking Guide Tour to Mizuo ( hidden course of Kyoto north-west of Arashiyama )

This is a guide course of visiting mizuo from north part of arashiyama through toriimoto and kiyotaki. this is the most high-end english guided tour i have. you will have a very unique experience that no others have the same because i am the only one and the very first person who wrote detailed information of this area in english. even many locals living in kyoto do not know of this way of visiting mizuo from a trail. this is a beautiful trail goes along river of kiyotaki and hozukyo..

Let's visit famous places in Kyoto together!

Firstly, we visit fushimi inari shrine. if you walk through in the countless trii-gates in the late evening , you must be feeling getting into a mysterious world. sanjyu-sangendo temple where you can see the magnificient main statue and one thousand life sized kannon statues. every people says " i'ts amazing " ninenzaka and sannenzaka are full of delicious food. kiyomizudera-temple is one of the most oldest and famous temples in kyoto. about 5mllion tourists visit this temple every year .

Popular Kyoto Private Cars

Kyoto sightseeing with a private chartered van (1-12pax)

You can plan to visit several places around kyoto within a limited time with our van. our commuter can accommodate a group of up to 12 people and our service is available for 24h.

Kyoto and Osaka sightseeing with a private van (1-12pax)

You can plan to visit several places around kyoto and osaka within a limited time with our van. our commuter can accommodate a group of up to 12 people and our service is available for 24h.

Kyoto 8-Hour Tour with a Private Car

Experienced local taxi drivers will cordially show you around the area so that you can visit both must-see and hidden sightseeing spots and enjoy local food..

Kyoto 4-Hour Tour with a Private Car

Experienced local taxi drivers will cordially show you around the area so that you can visit both must-see and hidden sightseeing spots and enjoy local food. please choose the itinerary from a or b., day trips from kyoto.

Kyoto Tour Reviews

Your most memorable tour in Kyoto

“ Amazing sightseeing ”

Kazuhiko is very kind and helpful with our trip in Kyoto.Thank you so much for everything you organise for us.

Kazuhiko G.

Hello, Thank you for the nice review. Did you arrive safely in Tokyo? I am glad your lovely family enjoyed the tour despite the unfortunate rainy and cloudy weather. I had a great time too. I hope this tour will be a memorable one. I hope you will come to Japan again. Thank you !! Kazuhiko Goto

Kyoto-WH-Golden Pavilion, Rock Garden and more - from Osaka

“ Great day in Kyoto with Hiroyuki ”

We had a really great day in Kyoto with Hiroyuki (it was a long day too and we walked over 22,000 steps!). Excellent communication prior to the day, Hiroyuki arranged to meet us at the cruise port in Osaka and customised the itinerary to suit our preferences (including the market and main temples/shrines). He very helpfully suggested we booked tickets in advance for the truly fabulous Miyako Odori Geiko & Maiko show & tea ceremony. I think what made a real difference for us was the excellent information he provided whilst travelling on the train/metro from Osaka Port into Kyoto and during the rest of the day at all the main sights. Basically we had a compact history of Japan, Buddhism, Shinto, wars etc and he answered all our questions very well throughout the day (& showed us how to get metro/train tickets!). Hiroyuki was very kind and patient with us, letting us stroll around the market and stop quite often for photos, taking us to a nice little tea shop for a break, getting taxis between sights where necessary and guiding us through the very busy Gion area. We changed our plans on the day so we could get the bullet train back to Osaka just for the experience and Hiroyuki again helped with getting the tickets and finding the right platform at the enormous station! And escorted us right back to the ship. I honestly don’t think we would have seen or understood nearly as much had we tried to do this independently or in a larger tour group. We would definitely recommend getting a personal guide in this area and would 100% recommend and use Hiroyuki’s services again. Arigato ありがとう

Thank you very much for your kind words. I really appreciate your words. ありがとうございます。 You showed a lot of interests and respects to our culture, it is always nice to spend time with people like you. Please come back to Japan again, there are a lot more that I want to show you. Mt.Koya is my most favorite destination. Check it on my page! Have a safe trip. Bon voyage.

Eisha' s Kyoto Tour

“ Great guide ”

Toshi was a great guide and was very patient with our family of 4. He was very knowledgeable and very flexible with our plans.

It is fun to be among the fine family as a guide. Everybody in your family seemed very happy. That made me happy too, to be a guide for your family. It was very pleasant day for me too. Thank you very much for your review. Take care.

Kyoto Private Tour Guide

Discover Kyoto's hidden gems with a private tour guide! Navigate the city's rich history, culture, and food like a local with a tour guide that knows the way.

Push beyond tour favorites like Kinkaku-ji and Fushimi Inari Taisha, and the crowds they attract, towards hidden gems waiting to be discovered with the help of a private tour guide. One such place is the Tofuku-ji Temple, known for its stunning autumn foliage and serene atmosphere. A private tour guide can provide insights into the temple's architecture, Zen gardens, and historical significance, allowing visitors to appreciate its beauty beyond the surface level.

With calmer crowds, you and your loved ones can create the kind of memories you want, with no interruptions. In Kyoto, your private guide will ensure you have the time, knowledge and space to savor moments of tranquility and reflection and soak in the spiritual ambiance of this lesser-known gem.

Kyoto Frequently Asked Questions

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With a real local of your choice

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Just contact your favorite local

Only private tours!

So no group tours with strangers

Connect with a Kyoto Local Guide

Read reviews and chat with the best local tour guides in kyoto. get a free itinerary and plan your private tour today..

Transportation & Transfers

Tour kyoto by car or van, get an airport transfer, or hire a private guide / driver. see reviews and all options..

Book a customizable Kyoto Private Tour

Browse kyoto tour itineraries by our local professionals and book your favorite kyoto tour..

Virtual Tours & Experiences

Enjoy kyoto with a virtual tours & experience without leaving your home., related kyoto tour guide pages.

Tour Packages

Tour packages are travel plans, which include some or all of the following: transportation , accommodation , meals, guided tours and more. They can be of great value to both, independent and group travelers.

Tour packages range from individual travel plans, which include only a train ticket and hotel reservation and leave everything else to the traveler, to fully guided tours which cover everything from airfare to English speaking guides and meals. Furthermore, there is a range of special interest tours, such as anime , hot spring , hiking or theme park tours.

Many companies inside and outside of Japan offer tour packages. Because the companies purchase tickets and hotel rooms in large bulks, they are able to offer the packages at costs far below the ones available to individual travelers, making tour packages an option worth considering by travelers of all budgets .

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Meet our Rakutabi Guides

Meet Dan, our Japanese Guide.

Meet P-J, our European Guide.

Meet Charline, our English / French guide

Meet Carla, our Spanish Guide.

Meet Sonia, our Arabic Guide.

Meet Nori, our Japanese / English guide.

MEET LUCIANO / ルチアーノ, our Argentinian guide

MEET HORACIO / ホラシオ​, our Mexican guide

MEET QUENTIN , our French / English Guide.

MEET   Albert , our Spanish guide. (trilingual : EN, GER , SP)

INFORMATION

• 2017/11/20　 Hakone in November is exquisite and so eye-candy !
• 2017/10/30　 Carla, our intrepid Spanish / English Tour Guide live from Kyoto !
• 2016/09/13　 You would think you're in Kyoto...
• 2016/09/08　 RAKUTABI on Facebook : Like us ! ♥
• 2016/08/31　 Rakutabi's Special Autumn Campaign !

Testimonials

María (Argentina)

5 days tour (Tokyo - Nikko - Hakone - Kyoto - Osaka) Nos lo pasamos genial en Japón con tu guía Carla. Una experiencia muy agradable, lo haremos de nuevo.

Varma (U.S.A)

Tokyo (Asakusa - Sumida River Cruise - Odaiba - Harajuku) - 8H

My wife and I had a great time exploring Tokyo and its must seen places along with our very experienced Rakutabi guide. Will definitely do it again in a near future. 

" Highly recommended."

Maxime (France)

Tokyo - Old " Shitamachi " historical town - 8H

J'ai beaucoup aimé l'accueil et l'impression générale. 

Notre guide Rakutabi s'est montré très professionnel et nous a aidé pour tout un tas de choses dès notre arrivée à Tokyo.

"Je recommande !"

Karen (Australia)

I had a great time exploring Hakone and its beautiful lake / mountains / volcano. The car cable adventure as well as the small pittoresque local train taking us to the region is an absolute must-do! Our Rakutabi guide was very knowledgeable about the place as well as super friendly. Will definitely do it again in a near future.

"Highly recommended."

Elisabeth (U.S.A.)

My father promised me to take me with him to Japan and it finally happened ! Our Rakutabi guide took us to all the major trendy and fashionable spots of Tokyo and was patient enough to wait for us while we were buying tons of souvenirs around Harajuku.

Great overall experience, super friendly all the way.

Discover the Exciting Land of China

Observe the respectful place of japan, uncover the beauty of the orient, welcome to pacific protours & travel.

Your professional travel partner to Japan, China, and the Orient!

We have more than half a century’s experience in the travel industry and are proud to be among the best in the business.

Vacation travel has changed a great deal from the way it was in the old days. Gone are the restricted itineraries, fixed travel dates, large groups, and inflexible tour features and arrangements. Today’s travelers want more flexibilities, freedom of choice, custom-designed itineraries, and packages that cater to their own preferences, times, and schedules.

Pacific Protour is your perfect choice for travel because custom-designed tour packages are what we do best. We have been creating them for over thirty years.

We welcome you to browse through our vast collection of sample itineraries to help define those very ingredients of your dream vacation. Then, simply let us know your preferences, interests, and requirements in order for one of our travel experts to tailor-make that special tour, just the way you envisioned it! Start planning your vacation today.

Our Travel Destinations

• Accommodations
• Tours of Japan
• Tours of China
• Tours of the Orient
• Things You Should Know
• Contact Pacific Protours

Santa Clara University

The jesuit university in silicon valley.

• College of Arts and Sciences
• Modern Languages & Literatures
• Academic Programs

日本語プログラムへようこそ！

Interested in Anime? Video games? Or business opportunities in Japan? The Japanese Studies Program at Santa Clara University offers.

You can minor in Japanese Studies. Complete Japanese minor by taking 19 units of upper-division Japanese courses: JAPN 100, 101, 102, and 137, or program approved study abroad courses or other upper-division courses offered on Japan.

You can also minor in Asian Studies , if you are interested in the interdisciplinary area study of different cultures of Asia.

There is also International Business Minor . You will need to take JAPN 23 or have an equivalent proficiency, combined with international business courses and social science courses in global context.

Why Study Japanese?

• Japanese is spoken by 120 million people in Japan which has the world's second largest developed economy
• Japanese is not as difficult as you might think
• Japan has extremely rich and old culture
• Japan is a world leader in technology and innovation
• Japan is the hub of anime, manga, and video games
• Japan is a gateway to other Asian countries
• Japan is one of the safest countries in the world
• Knowing Japanese sets you apart
• Learning a non-European language opens your mind and possibilities

Life After Graduation: What Can I Do with Japanese?

Here are some examples:

• JET (Japan Exchange and Teaching) program
• Localization specialist in various fields of business
• Overseas marketing and PR for Japanese companies
• English content writer for Japanese companies
• Travel Consultant
• Subtitle editor
• Interpreter for professional sports athletes

What Japanese Classes Can I Take at SCU?

JAPN 1~3: Elementary Japanese I~III

JAPN 21~23: Intermediate Japanese I~III

JAPN 100: Advanced Japanese I (Conversation)

JAPN 101: Advanced Japanese II (Topic-Based)

JAPN 102: Advanced Japanese III (Topic-Based)

JAPN 137: Japanese Culture (Japanese Society through Media)

Undergraduate Bulletin

Where Can I Study Abroad?

You can study abroad in Japan at three universities, two located in Tokyo and one in Nagoya.

• Sophia University (Tokyo): Direct Exchange Program in Various Fields of Study for Academic Year or Spring Quarter
• Sophia University (Tokyo): East Asian Studies or Japanese Language during Summer Session
• University of the Sacred Heart (Tokyo): Direct Exchange Program in Intensive Japanese Language and Culture for Spring Quarter (Women Only)
• IES Nagoya Program at Nanzan University (Nagoya): Intensive Study of Japanese Language, Art, Political Science for Academic Year, Fall Quarter, or Spring Quarter

Minor Requirements

Minor in Japanese Studies

• JAPN 100, 101, and 102, or department-approved substitutions
• Remaining electives to total at least 19 quarter units of upper-division work in Japanese. At least 10 of these units must be taken at SCU or taught by SCU faculty.

Japanese Academic Advising

Advisor for 2nd language CORE, Elementary & Intermediate Japanese Courses: Seiko Horibe Fujii Contact

Living in Tokyo often meant daily city excursions to discover everything the bustling metropolis had to offer. I absolutely love urban life, but every once in a while, I needed to get away. Shinjuku Gyoen was a mere five minute train ride or thirty-minute walk from Sophia University's front gates. I loved spending my time at the park having a hanami (a cherry blossom viewing picnic) with friends or taking a leisurely walk. Shinjuku Gyoen's lush and peaceful environment was perfectly juxtaposed next to Tokyo's crazy urban life, making the perfect escape.

CourseAvail

Core Curriculum Guide

Drahmann Advising Center

Office of the Registrar

Sato Japanese Restaurant

Sato Japanese Restaurant provides an authentic Japanese dining experience.

Tucked into a quiet corner of a shopping mall at the corner of Hopyard and Valley, Pleasanton’s first Japanese restaurant has satisfied sushi lovers since 1983. Inside the cozy setting, reminiscent of a Japanese home with opaque screens and art prints, regulars vie for seats to watch the sushi chek prepare specialties like shiro maguro (white tuna). For near-sushi diners, the Fireball Roll features lightly cooked spicy tuna with chili sauce. You won’t find a long list of trendy sushi combinations, just top-quality renditions of classic rolls, sashimi, tempura, and teriyaki.

"This authentic Japanese restaurant serves great classic sushi, sashimi, tempura and teriyaki. Sit at the sushi bar and watch the chef work or just enjoy the room, designed to look like a Japanese home."

Thank you, Sato!

Our address is:

3015 K Hopyard Road

Pleasanton, CA 94588

925.462.3131

Ownership: Makoto Sato