Learn about the beauty, history and
culture of Japan
You will find a genuine guide
Learn about the beauty, history and
culture of Japan
You will find a genuine guide
KeiKay
Behind-the-scenes Stories Teller; Broad Knowledge about Religions & Cultures; Known for her Elegant and Impeccable Manners
KeiKay
Guide Experience
10 years or more
Area
Kyoto,Osaka,Nara,Kobe
Languages
English
Qualifications
Expertise
Traditional Culture,Pottery,Shopping
Hi, everyone. My name is Kaori Kuzuhara. Call me KK! I live in Nishinomiya city in the vicinity of Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Himeji which is called Kansai. I’m a national government licensed tourist guide 2014- and enjoying taking guests from overseas to the best places in Kansai. My specialty is the friendliness and has bread knowledge about religion, culture, and behind- the-scenes stories. Let’s have a quality experience with me and go like a local ,which is only possible with a guide who loves the area. I will show you hidden gems in Kansai. Let’s dive into the deep Japan with me together! Your local friend, KK
Noko
Native of Kyoto; Tea Ceremony, Japanese Arts, Crafts, and Nature Expertise; Certified in Teaching; Job Experience at an Int'l Enterprise
Noko
Guide Experience
10 years or more
Area
Kyoto,Osaka,Nara
Languages
English
Qualifications
Expertise
Japanese Garden,ART,Traditional Culture,Art Crafts
Hi, my name is Noriko, but you can call me Noko. As a native of Kyoto, I have always been close to events, landscapes, and everyday scenery of Kyoto. I spent a year in a small town in Arkansas, U.S.A. as an exchange student. Living there with no one from a similar background gave me a flexible perspective from a young age. Since then, I have been interested in how people communicate with each other from different cultural backgrounds. I joined an international enterprise and learned to work with people from different countries. I became a National Guide/Interpreter in 2015 to share my love for Japanese art, crafts, food, and nature with my guests. After completing the courses for the City of Kyoto Visitor's Host, I came to believe that it is my mission to re-discover the hidden gems of Kyoto and shed light on them. Why not find out a surprise not written in your guidebook with me?
Yuki
Master of Way of Incense; Certified in Japanese Dance and Flower Arrangement; Expertise in Classical Theatrical Arts, incl. Kabuki & Noh
Yuki
Guide Experience
5 years or more
Area
Kanazawa,Kyoto,Osaka,Nara,Kobe,Himeji,Hiroshima
Languages
English
Qualifications
Expertise
Sake,ART,Traditional Culture,Shopping
Hello! My name is Lee Yukiko. Please call me Yuki. I was born in Hiroshima Prefecture. I have been living in Hyogo prefecture (next to Osaka) more than thirty years. I am cheerful and friendly, and I really love meeting people. I had many guests like celebrities, politicians, CEOs, artists and so on. I am capable of guiding whoever you are. You would definately have a wonderful time if you picked me as a guide. I have a license of Japanese dancing and flower arrangement. I like classical ballet, Kimono, Japanese culture, theater going, like Kabuki. I like meeting new people and want to help you have a wonderful trip in Japan. I’m a Kodo (the way of incense) Master. Kodo is a traditional Japanese culture to appreciate the incense wood of more than 100 years old. It is quite authentic and esthetic culture that Japan can boast. Though, the number of people who enjoy this interesting culture is decreasing in Japan. I’d like to introduce this quite a unique culture as many people as possible. Why don't you try this unique and authentic Japanese culture? [Places to guide] I’m good at arranging a special trip according to your request. Please tell me your interests and favorites. I’ll arrange the best trip only for you. I mainly guide Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kobe, Himeji, Kanazawa, Naoshima. I'm looking forward to seeing you!
Emi
Licensed Museum Curator; Fashion, Art, & Golf Expert; Provides Worry-free Tours with 20 years of Secretary Experience at Osaka University.
Emi
Guide Experience
5 years or more
Area
Kanazawa,Kyoto,Osaka,Nara,Kobe,Himeji,Hiroshima,Shiga,Okayama,The Seto Inland Sea,Kagawa
Languages
English
Qualifications
Expertise
World Heritage,ART,Japanese History,Traditional Culture,Shopping,Art Crafts
Hello, I am Emi Matsuda, a professional interpreter and tour guide with 6 years of experience. I am also working as a secretary in Osaka University with over 20 years of experience, which has honed my ability to offer flexible and elegant attention to clients. I have a license of museum curation, which extends my knowledge and expertise in the arts and culture field. Based in the fashion city of Kobe, I feel privileged to share Japan's rich cultural destinations with travelers from around the globe. Having lived in this beautiful country for years, I have developed a deep passion for the country's rich heritage and customs, making every tour experience I offer more insightful and meaningful. As a professional tour guide and interpreter, flexibility and adaptability are vital aspects of my job. I've learned to anticipate and respond quickly to different issues that may arise during tours, ensuring that my clients enjoy a worry-free experience. I take pride in creating unforgettable experiences for my clients, each tailored to their preferences and interests. In Japan, we have many beautiful destinations, from the traditional temples and palaces to breathtaking gardens and festivals. I'm passionate about showcasing all the hidden gems of my country, and my extensive planning and research reflect this. Moreover, I enjoy creating customized tours, combining culture and leisure outings, giving clients the opportunity to witness Japan's breathtaking sites and experiences. In conclusion, I look forward to welcoming you to Japan and curating an unforgettable tour that showcases the country's history, culture, and beauty. I strive to create unique memories for my clients, and I am confident that you will have a wonderful experience with me as your guide.
Tom Yoshida
Kyoto Prefecture-certified Tea Sommelier; Bachelor's Degree in Science and Engineering; Enjoys Hiking, Running, Cycling, Skiing and Ramen
Tom Yoshida
Guide Experience
Less than 5 years
Area
Kanazawa,Kyoto,Osaka,Nara,Hiroshima,Shiga
Languages
English
Qualifications
Expertise
Shrine/Temple,FOOD,Japanese History,Traditional Culture,Trains
Hi there, I am Tom Yoshida, the guide that a Five-star hotel in Kyoto requests as a priority, National Certified Tour Guide, Certified Domestic Travel Services Manager and Certified “Tea Sommelier” by Kyoto Prefecture. I have experience guiding a variety of patterns, from individual travelers to groups, from day trips to 3 weeks in duration, and from Tokyo to Hiroshima in site. For private guiding in Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara, I have requests from several hotel concierges as well as travel agencies. In addition, I accommodate more than just sightseeing. For example, model shoots for clothing brands and hiking tours. I live in Kyoto for 30 years, so I can guide travelers to every corner of the city. I also lived in Osaka for 20 years. I became a businessman and stayed in the U.S. for five years and in Germany for a half year. Because, I traveled backpacking through Europe when I was a student. It was a sightseeing trip and I was not happy with just looking from the outside. After that, I wanted to get into Western society. Now I would like to push you to enter Japanese culture. For example, in Kyoto, where I live, there are many historical Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. I would like to make Buddhism and Shintoism easier to understand rather than simply show them to you. My sports are cycling, hiking, skiing and marathon running. My other hobbies are trains and the visiting of ramen restaurants. After finishing my bachelor's degree in science and engineering, I used to work as a designer and marketer for a manufacturing equipment manufacturer, so I am also very happy to do industrial tours.
Fumi
Enthusiast of Traditional Japanese Performing Arts, including Noh; Passionate Food & Drink Explorer; Expert in Luxury Tours
Fumi
Guide Experience
10 years or more
Area
Kyoto,Nara,Hiroshima
Languages
English
Qualifications
Expertise
Shrine/Temple,Japanese Garden,Sake,FOOD,Traditional Culture,Shopping,Art Crafts
Hello, I am Fumi. I live in Kyoto and try to provide comfortable tours tailored to the travel style of clients. I do more than 200 tours annually in Western Japan. I have a passion for travel, both domestically and internationally. As a child, I had numerous opportunities to travel across various parts of Japan with family and my father's business partners. This allowed me to discover the joy of travelling to unfamiliar places, unknown local food, and chance encounters with new people. I am also interested in ancient Japanese culture. Influenced by my parents and aunt, who were Noh performers, I became interested in Noh and other traditional performing arts. In school, I had a keen interest in cross-cultural communication and felt the need to learn English. I passed English Proficiency Test Grade 1 with a high score and was invited to an award ceremony for outstanding achievement. Before becoming a guide, I worked as a teacher at a language school and as a training officer, but a friend working in the tourism industry invited me to work at international events for overseas guests, saying, 'you are suited to work in travel. I eventually qualified as a chief itinerary manager in 2003. Inspired by my aunt, who was an interpreter-guide in both English and French, I became a licensed interpreter-guide in 2014, making my professional debut a month later. Since 2015, I have been working primarily on luxury tours. Hobbies: exploring local cuisine, going to the gym, watching stage performances, and strolling through the city.
Sato_san
Nara Prefecture-certified Guide; Sake Connoisseur; Certified Kimono Dressing Advisor； Origami Paper-folding Instructor
Sato_san
Guide Experience
5 years or more
Area
Kyoto,Osaka,Nara
Languages
English
Qualifications
Expertise
Shrine/Temple,Sake,FOOD,Japanese History
Hello! I am a tour guide Sato_san. Sato is my last name and sugar is called "sato" in Japanese, so I am your sweet guide! I was born in Hong Kong and raised in Nara, Japan. After living in Japan and the US, I started working as a travel guide in 2016. As a nationally certified English Interpreter Guide and Nara prefecture-certified guide, I will guide you to highlights and little known spots in Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka. Would you like to know Japanese history and culture, appreciate art, meet craftsman, eat local dishes, taste sake, walk in nature, feel local life, or look for a place to heal? Please tell me your wishes. I will be happy to arrange an itinerary to make your day even more special and memorable!
Hank
Expert Tour Guide for Long-Term Trips; Worked Overseas in the Machine Parts Industry; Backpacked South America & Mexico; Marathon Runner
Hank
Guide Experience
5 years or more
Languages
English
Qualifications
Expertise
Sake,FOOD,Japanese History,Traditional Culture,Shopping
Hello! My name is Hiroshi Fujii, a tour guide in English since 2020. Please call me Hank. I got this nickname in United State. I have been five years in Chicago, near O’Hare Airport. When I was school days, I traveled one year Mexico and South America with backpacking. I love travel. After graduation, I joined machine parts company that I wanted to work at foreign countries. Fortunately, I have been 11 years in Germany, 5 years in USA, and 3 years in Brazil as a business. I had a very warm communication with local people and wonderful experience during my stays in foreign countries. Therefore, I came to want to be a tour guide, so that I would like to assist you to have an unforgettable experience of Japanese culture and interaction with local people during your stays in Japan. I love my job guiding and to interact with you. As a hobby, I love running. I run every weekend and marathon twice a year. I was born and raised in Nara in the vicinity of Kyoto and Osaka. It is famous for great Buddha and lots of deer. I have two sons; my elder son was born in Germany, and he is just married last year. Now my wife and I live in our hometown Nara. During our tour, I would like to be a representative of Japanese people for you. You can ask me anything related Japanese culture and life. I can explain you using my own history and experience. If you have a special interest, please let me know. I am confident that you will have a unforgettable experience with me as your guide. I am looking forward to seeing you soon in Japan!
Embark on an enchanting one-day tour, delving into Kyoto's rich cultural heritage. Begin at the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, perched atop a hill with sweeping city views. Unveil its profound history and be captivated by its ethereal beauty.
Wander through Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka slopes, adorned with traditional houses, shops, and restaurants. Continue along Ishibei-koji cobblestone pathways, a hidden gem steeped in samurai-period allure. Marvel at the exquisite wooden architecture and immerse in the nostalgic charm.
Next, encounter the majestic Yasaka Pagoda, a symbol of spiritual elegance. Visit Kennin-ji Temple, Kyoto's oldest Zen temple, where tranquility envelops you. Admire serene gardens and captivating artworks, enhancing your spiritual experience.
Conclude your odyssey in the renowned Gion district, a haven of traditional arts and geisha culture. Walk cobbled streets and absorb cultural nuances thriving in this captivating neighborhood.
Embark on an enchanting journey through Kyoto's timeless treasures on our 1-day highlights tour. Witness the resplendent Kinkaku-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasting of its golden pavilion adorned in shimmering gold, radiating tranquility amid lush gardens. Feel the echoes of history at Nijo-jo Castle, another UNESCO gem, with its stunning samurai-style architecture and magnificent paintings drawn by the 17th-century professional artist group.
Indulge your senses at Nishiki Market, a kaleidoscope of colors and flavors, savoring delectable street delights and authentic local delicacies. Stroll along the bustling Teramachi-dori Shopping Street, where modernity intertwines with tradition, offering an array of artisanal crafts and souvenirs to cherish.
The pinnacle of our expedition awaits at Fushimi-inari Taisha Shrine, a mesmerizing path of thousands of vermillion torii gates leading to sacred heights, exuding an aura of spiritual energy and awe-inspiring beauty.
Guided by our knowledgeable experts, this captivating day promises unforgettable memories of Kyoto's cultural richness and grandeur. Discover the essence of Japan's ancient heart in just one day!
Embark on a soul-enriching journey through Nara and Fushimi, where ancient marvels and serene beauty beckon. Begin at the revered Kasuga Taisha Shrine, its sacred ambiance captivating under the warm daylight, as you stroll amidst the majestic stone lanterns that grace its hallowed paths. Marvel at the awe-inspiring Todai-ji Temple, where the Great Buddha exudes wisdom and serenity. Then, in the heart of Nara's Deer Park, embrace the endearing charm of adorable deer who graciously bow, asking deer crackers sold at stalls in the Park. Venturing to Fushimi, explore the storied Sake Brewery District. Witness the art of sake brewing at museums and traditional facilities, immersing yourself in the time-honored craft. Savor the rich flavors as you taste exquisite sake at local shops or bars. Ascend the mesmerizing vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha, a sacred path leading to blessings and breathtaking vistas. Guided by our knowledgeable narrator, hear captivating tales and historical insights, immersing yourself in Japan's profound traditions and picturesque landscapes.
Explore Osaka's allure on this captivating tour. Begin at the sacred Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, immersed in centuries of spirituality and architectural beauty. Continue to the historic Shitenno-ji Temple, an ancient Buddhist marvel showcasing its revered significance. Unveil the grandeur of Osaka-jo Castle, a magnificent fortress steeped in history. Finally, soar to the Umeda Sky Building's observatory. for breathtaking views of the vibrant city. Expert guide will share captivating stories, enriching your journey. Book now for an unforgettable exploration of Japan's timeless past and thriving present. Embrace the enchantment of Osaka, create cherished memories, and let the magic unfold!
Embark on a journey through time and tradition as you explore the cultural gems of Himeji. Your adventure begins with the iconic Himeji-jo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site and Japan's most splendid castle. Marvel at the imposing white facade and intricate architectural details that have stood the test of centuries. As you ascend through the castle's towering structure, panoramic views of Himeji city unfold, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history. Next, immerse yourself in the tranquility of Koko-en Garden, a stunning masterpiece that encapsulates the essence of Edo-period landscaping. Wander through nine distinct garden areas, each reflecting a different style and theme. Admire the serene ponds, traditional tea houses, and meticulously manicured landscapes that create a harmonious blend of nature and artistry. Continue your journey to Shosha-zan Engyo-ji Temple, perched atop Mount Shosha and famous for a shooting spot of the Hollywood movie ""Last Samurai,"" in which Tom Cruise appeared. Accessible by a scenic ropeway, this secluded temple complex exudes a sense of spiritual serenity.
