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Private tour in Kobe Mika M

Shore Excursion: KYOTO Highlight Tour by Minivan from Kobe

5.0

(3) reviews

-
Hours icon 9 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 9 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

Mika M.

5.0

Guide rating

10

Reviews

Tours delivered

10 hrs

Avg. response time

Hello, everyone. I’m Mika, your guide in Japan, here to help you create unique travel experiences. Although I officially became a licensed guide during the pandemic, my guiding experience began much earlier. Since childhood, my family has frequently hosted international visitors, including friends, exchange students, Guides and Scouts, and travelers from various backgrounds. I have been guiding them in Kyoto, Osaka, Tokyo, Nara, Kobe, and the surrounding areas for many years. This has always been a great joy to meet guests from all around the world and show them Japanese culture. After studying Museum Studies at the University of Leicester in the UK, I worked at the National Museum of Nature and Science Tokyo. I also have experience working with an embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. I have always loved museums. During my studies in the UK, I had the opportunity to intern at the British Museum. As a guide, I view all of Japan as a "living museum" and take great joy in introducing its wonders to my guests. Guiding and scouting have also been significant parts of my life. I have been involved with the Girl Scouts of Japan and was a Girl Guide in both New Zealand and the UK while studying there. Additionally, I served as a live-in volunteer staff member at Pax Lodge, one of the WAGGGS World Centres in London. Feel free to reach out with any questions - I’m happy to help. If you have a special request for a tour, I am able to customise the tour. I look forward to meeting you and sharing an unforgettable experience in Japan. Mika Nationally Certified Guide since 2021 Certified Domestic Itinerary Management Supervisor 🚗 I do not drive during tours, but I can arrange a vehicle with a professional driver upon request. 🛡️ Please note that insurance is not included. I highly recommend having your own travel insurance.

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Mika M.

Overview of your Kobe tour

Want to explore the timeless beauty of Kyoto without the stress of navigating or planning transportation? This private tour is crafted just for you, with a comfortable minivan, a dedicated driver, and me- your personal guide eager to share my love for this historic city. Kyoto is renowned for its serene temples, stunning gardens, and traditional streets that seem untouched by time. You’ve likely heard about the iconic vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari or the scenic views from Kiyomizu-dera. But there’s so much more to discover! With this tour, you’ll experience Kyoto’s unique blend of history and culture at your own pace, in the comfort of a private vehicle. Since this tour starts and ends at Kobe Port, you can fully enjoy your shore excursion without worrying about getting back to your ship. I look forward to making your day in Kyoto truly memorable!

Recent Reviews

Richard J.United States
May 2026

We were fortunate enough to have Mika guide us for two days in Kyoto and Kobe. She was beyond outstanding. She customized both days to give us a fabulous overview of both cities. Her knowledge of the area was very informative and complete. No language issues as her English was excellent. Mika was highly competent and very dedicated to her guests. She also had a great personality and we all very much enjoyed being with her. I would totally recommend her and if we return to the area she will be my first call.

Jean V.Belgium
March 2026

Wonderful Kyoto Experience with Mika We had a fantastic day in Kyoto, beautifully guided by Mika, a Japanese guide we found through Tours by Locals. Kyoto is a truly stunning city, rich in history and culture — and even known as the place where the famous climate agreement was signed. Mika showed us around the Kiyomizu area, with its breathtaking temples and traditional atmosphere. It was an unforgettable experience, full of beauty and authenticity. One of the absolute highlights was the tea ceremony — a must-do when visiting Kyoto. We highly recommend going for the full experience, including wearing a kimono, which made it even more special and immersive. Mika is incredibly friendly, speaks excellent English, and has deep knowledge of Japanese culture, history, and religion. She explained everything in a very clear and engaging way. Kyoto is definitely worth visiting, and with a guide like Mika, your experience becomes truly exceptional. Highly recommended!

Rolf S.Switzerland
November 2025

Our trip with Mika to Kyoto was great. We visited places off the beaten track, but also saw the must-see attractions. We can highly recommend a tour with Mika and would love to spend another exciting day with her in anytime.

Your Kobe tour itinerary

Please note that travel times vary depending on the pick-up and drop-off locations, so this sample itinerary is for reference only. 08:50 Meet Mika (your guide) at Kobe Port – Begin your journey with a private vehicle. 09:00 Depart 10:30 Arrive at Kyoto 10:30–16:30 Sightseeing in Kyoto (SAMPLE) * Kiyomizu-dera Temple – Explore this UNESCO-listed temple and take in stunning views from its wooden stage. * Strall along Kiyomizu-zaka, Sannen-zaka, Ninen-zaka * Lunch – Savor a Kyoto-style meal at a local restaurant. * Gion Area – Stroll through charming streets and soak in Kyoto’s old-town atmosphere. * Nishiki Market - Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the local market. 16:30 Depart from Kyoto 18:00 Arrive at drop-off location / Tour ends

Want to customize this tour?

Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.

Transport details
Type: Private Transportation / Category: Minivan

The tour price includes a chauffeured vehicle, highway tolls, and parking fees. Once your booking is confirmed, I will arrange the vehicle. Please note that a specific model cannot be guaranteed. Examples: Alphard, Vellfire, GranAce. If you request itinerary changes or if traffic congestion extends the rental time or distance, please pay me in cash for any extra charges. For groups of one or two, we can also arrange a sedan instead of a minivan. Choosing a sedan will result in a slightly lower price. If you would like a sedan, please let me know before booking this tour.

What's included
Private Guide
Private Transportation With Driver
What's not included
Tickets: Admission (eg: Kiyomizudera Temple)
Other: Lunch for you and your guide.
Food Drinks Snacks
Classes Workshop: Tea Ceremony etc
Meeting location

Kobe, Hyogo, Japan

When your cruise ship arrives at Kobe Port, it will arrive at either (1) or (2) below. Please let me know which one it will arrive at. (1) Naka Pier Cruise Terminal (2) Kobe Port Terminal If you do not come with a cruise, let me know where you would like to meet.

  • You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
City Highlights
Religious Sites
History
Food And Drink
Tour reference number
1407894
Languages
Japanese
English
Activity level
Moderate
Accessibility
Kid Friendly

Traveller reviews

5.0

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Kobe best suited for?

This private tour is perfect for travellers who want to explore the scenic spots of Kyoto without the hassle of navigating or planning transportation. It's especially suitable for cruise ship passengers looking for a shore excursion, as it starts and ends at Kobe Port. Families with kids, seniors, and those interested in a comfortable and personalized experience will find this tour ideal.

Where does the tour start and end?

Is transportation included?

Is this private tour in Kobe suitable for cruise ship passengers as a shore excursion?

What languages is this tour offered in?

What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 9 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 9 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a 20% deposit!

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