Kiran S.United States
Lovely lady. Knowledgeable and was wonderful at explaining the history of the city and Japan. Showed us all the historical and cultural sites. We really enjoyed our time with her.
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Private tour in Kyoto Tomoko H
Kyoto Golden Course full day Private Tour
5.0
(125) reviews
-
8 hours
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-7 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
-
8 hours
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-7 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
Tomoko H.
4.9
Guide rating
547
Reviews
Tours delivered
11 hrs
Avg. response time
Hi! I'm Tomoko and I'm a national licensed tour guide in Japan. I specialize in tours of Kyoto, Nara and Osaka. But I can take you to different cities, as well. I have been professionally licensed since 2006 and since then I have guided many people from many countries - individuals, couples and groups. My favorite way to guide you is with walking tours. That way, you can feel the real charms of the places in a relaxed mood. You will feel as if you are with a close friend who is both knowledgeable and kind. I am totally passionate about my country and its culture One of the things I love most is to see people smile and hear them say "wow" when they learn or see something new. There is an intimacy on my private tours. And when I am planning the tour with you, I can arrange everything in advance. Best of all, when you work with me on your plans, it helps to create a relationship even before you get here. About me? I am an easy going and cheerful person. I have received many "thank you" letters from my clients… and many have referred to me as knowledgeable, friendly, warm and interesting. (Sometimes - even funny!) As I, myself, love to travel and have been to many countries, I appreciate how important it is to enjoy an inside perspective of a city or country. Here in Japan, I will make you feel like a "visitor", not a "tourist". And. . . I'm also a jazz singer. I sometimes have jazz gigs in jazz bars. I'd love to sing for you in my tour, if you'd like. I will be very happy if you will allow me to be your guide and I promise, you won't regret touring with me. I'm a national licensed English speaking tour guide. My National Gide Certificate is #EN00259. I graduated from Doshisha University, English Literature Department. I'm not a driver. I can accompany you in your vehicle or I can arrange for a separate car and driver.
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Tomoko H.
Must-see places for the first visitors: Kinkakuji temple, Nijo Castle and more
Overview of your Kyoto tour
Kyoto has so many attractive places to see as the 1000-year-capital. This course includes 3 World Heritage sites and other places which show the very charms of Kyoto. Kinkakuji Temple - You will see a breathtaking view of the golden pavilion and the garden. I'd love to tell you some interesting episodes about the temple. I'm sure I can help you take good pictures there. Nijo Castle - With a guide, you will learn about Shogun (the top of Samurai) and his way of life not only seeing a gorgeous palace. Kiyomizu Temple - a very old temple founded in the 8th c. . You will be amazed at the magnificent view of its compound. It has very interesting historical stories and I'd like to tell you those stories . Around Kiyomizu is one of the most popular areas with many souvenir shops of Kyoto specialties. After enjoying walking through very Kyoto-like alleys, you reach a famous Geisha district, Gion. Important! I require that you be covered by your own travel insurance policies.
Recent Reviews
Gregory K.United States
We had an amazing time exploring Kyoto with Tomo! She is incredibly knowledgeable about the history of every sight and knows the city inside and out, meaning we moved between places efficiently and smoothly. Her English is flawless, and she is absolutely hilarious and engaging. We loved our entire experience and highly recommend her!
Shannon M.Australia
Tomoko was amazing. Tomo was born and raised in Kyoto, so her knowledge regarding the history of Kyoto was second to none. Tomo was extremely flexible, thoughtful and responsive. Tomo worked very hard with our group to ensure we had a good time and saw everything we wanted to see. I highly recommend Tomoko to anyone visiting Kyoto who wants to fully appreciate the magnificent history of one of the most special places in Japan. Kindly, Shannon
Rachel L.United States
Tomo was an incredible guide and truly made our time in Kyoto unforgettable. She was not only extremely knowledgeable, but also fun and interesting to spend the day with - she kept everything engaging while sharing meaningful history and context. The tour felt very personalized, and Tomo went above and beyond to tailor the day to our interests while making everything seamless and stress-free. We left with a much deeper appreciation for Kyoto and its culture. Highly recommend booking with Tomo if you’re looking for a memorable and well-curated experience!
Michael B.Australia
Tomoko Is a fantastic guide. She is very flexible, she rained the tour to suit us which was great. Highly recommend Tomoko as a guide
Mona M.Australia
The tour was excellent — very knowledgeable and professional guide with an impressive grasp of history. Tomoko was able to answer all questions related to the tour and even shared additional insights beyond the scope of the tour. Highly recommended!
Your Kyoto tour itinerary
The starting time, the places to visit and activities are flexible according to your request. Meet in the morning -Visit Kinkakuji-temple (lots of wonderful photo spots) -Visit Nijo Castle (Shogun and samurais' history) -Lunch -Visit Heian-shrine, if the time permitting -Visit Kiyomizu-temple (photos and interesting episodes) -Walk through Sannenzaka (shopping) -Ishibekoji (stone wall alley) -Reach Gion, the most famous Geisha district in the evening.
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: Public Transportation / Category: Subway
During this tour we will walk and take public transportation or Taxis
What's included
Other: guide's transportation
Private Guide
What's not included
Other: Personal expenses. Admission fees.
Taxi charge (if you take one)
Public Transportation
Food Drinks Snacks
Tickets
Private Transportation
Private Transportation With Driver
Tastings
Equipment
Classes Workshop
Services
Meeting location
Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan
Airport: ,Cruise: ,ByGuide: your hotel
- You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
History
Religious Sites
Tour reference number
69859
Languages
Japanese
EnglishActivity level
Minimal
Traveller reviews
5.0
FAQs
Who is this private tour in Kyoto best suited for?
This private tour in Kyoto is perfect for first-time visitors who want to explore the must-see places such as Kinkakuji Temple, Nijo Castle, and more. It's also ideal for travellers who wish to connect with a local guide like Tomoko H. for deeper insights into Kyoto's rich history and culture.
What should I bring or wear?
Can this private tour in Kyoto be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?
How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?
Where does the tour start and end?
Is transportation included?
How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?
What languages is this tour offered in?
What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?
Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?
AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide
-
8 hours
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-7 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
-
8 hours
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-7 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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Book with a deposit
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!
How it works
- Your credit card will be authorized only for the deposit amount.
- Funds will not be withdrawn until your tour booking is fully processed.
- The remaining balance will automatically be charged to your credit card 30 days before your tour date.