Private tour in Kyoto Tomoko H

Kyoto Half-day Private Tour

4.9

(96) reviews

-
Hours icon 4 hours
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-7 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 4 hours
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-7 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

Tomoko H.

4.9

Guide rating

543

Reviews

Tours delivered

9 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.

Overview of your Kyoto tour

I highly recommend this tour if you don't have much time but would like to know what Kyoto is like in a short time. So, let's walk through the most charming area in Kyoto. My most favorite area!! We start from Kiyomizu temple, one of the must-see places for first visitors and one of the world heritage sites in Kyoto. As its precinct is very large, you can see many unique buildings and beautiful scenery. I'll tell you interesting stories about the temple. Through most charming area with pretty alleys and buildings, we reach Yasaka Shrine and Gion, the most famous Geisha district in Kyoto. Aren't you interested in their life? As you walk along this pretty area, you can feel really Kyoto-like atmosphere and take nice photos! You can also get various kinds of souvenirs from Kyoto in this area. Important! I require that you be covered by your own travel insurance policies. By accepting my services and participating in the tour, you release me of any liability for any injury or accident during the tour.

Recent Reviews

Dianna B.Canada
May 2026

We had a lovely 1/2 day tour with Tomoko! I highly recommend. Tomoko is very knowledgeable, patient and kind. She provided great recommendations on good shops, matcha cookies and restaurants both during and after our tour. We loved our time with Tomoko and wish her all the best.

Craig F.United States
February 2026

Thank you Tomoko for a wonderful four hours in Kyoto. My family and I appreciated all of your wisdom and truly enjoyed our time together. I would highly recommend everyone traveling to Kyoto to spend the morning with you! All the Best...Craig

Aileen H.United States
January 2026

We loved our tour with Tomako! She was very knowledgeable and accommodating so that we could maximize our short time in Kyoto! Great communication through out the planning process. Would your with her again!

Aileen H.United States
December 2025

Tomoko San was the best tour guide we could ask for. She was so accommodating to our slower walker and our hyper children. She was very knowledgeable. We highly recommend her for a Kyoto tour!

Michael B.Australia
December 2025

We are having a great time thanks to our guide Tomoko. We have booked a number of tours by Tomoko. It’s been a great experience.

Marla G.United States
May 2025

Tomoko was the perfect guide for Kyoto. We used her for 2 1/2 days of exploring Kyoto and surrounding areas. She was open to changing our itinerary as needed. She made our stay so memorable. Will recommend her to anyone visiting.

Your Kyoto tour itinerary

The starting time, the places to visit and activities are flexible according to your request. Meeting at Kyoto Station or your hotel. Visitting Kiyomizu-temple, one of the oldest temples in Kyoto designated as the world heritage site, full of interesting stories, wonderful scenery to take photos of. Walking through Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka area with lots of pretty souvenir shops in old town houses. Yasaka Pagoda is typical Kyoto scenery. Wonderful photo spot! Ishibekoji (stone wall alley) is very pretty alley and will also attract you as you walk through. Reaching Yasaka Shrine (very old and famous shrine) and Gion, the most famous Geish district. You will be interested in Geisha story. Tour ends at Gion.

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: Bus

Basically, we use public transportation (subway or bus) and walking. If you'd like to, we take a taxi to Kiyomizu temple and walk down to Gion area.

What's included
Other: guide's transportation
Private Guide
What's not included
Other: Personal expenses. admission to Kiyomizu temple
Public Transportation
Food Drinks Snacks
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
Religious Sites
City Highlights
Tour reference number
74630
Languages
Japanese
English
Activity level
Minimal
Accessibility
Kid Friendly

Traveller reviews

4.9

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Kyoto best suited for?

This private tour in Kyoto is perfect for travellers who have limited time but want to experience the essence of Kyoto. It's ideal for those interested in exploring charming areas, learning about local culture, and taking beautiful photos. The tour is also suitable for families with kids, as it is kid-friendly.

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

-
Hours icon 4 hours
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-7 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 4 hours
Public transportation
Private tour for 1-7 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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