Private tour in Kyoto Akari O
5.0
(4) reviews
3 hours
1
3 hours
1
Akari O.
5.0
Guide rating
8
Reviews
Tours delivered
8 hrs
Avg. response time
Ohkini! Thank you for reading my bio, my name is Akari. I was born and raised in Kyoto, and I truly love my hometown. I started guiding because I wanted to share the charm of Kyoto with people from around the world. Before I follow my dream of living abroad, I felt that I should first do something for the place where I grew up. Now I guide almost every day in Kyoto, from short walking tours to full-day experiences. I have a lot of knowledge about the Higashiyama area, where I grew up, and also about the Gion district, which is famous for its Geisha culture. Many of my guests enjoy hearing both the history and the local stories that only someone from Kyoto can tell. I try not to talk one-sidedly, but to make the tour a real conversation. I like to listen to guests’ questions and interests, and then adjust the tour so that it feels personal. My background is in hospitality and management, so I always try to notice what people need and make them feel comfortable. I also studied in Canada and the U.S., so I can guide in English with ease. I mainly offer tours in Kyoto City. From historical sites and cultural traditions to small local spots and daily life, I would like to show you many sides of Kyoto. Food, shopping, and even pop culture are also part of what I can introduce. If you are curious about Geisha districts or the atmosphere of Higashiyama, please feel free to ask me. I hope not only to share knowledge, but also to make a warm connection with each guest. Whether it is your first time in Kyoto or you have visited many times before, I want to make your trip memorable and enjoyable. I look forward to meeting you in Kyoto and spending a wonderful time together.
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Akari O.
Join me on a private walking tour through the historic streets of Higashiyama, the eastern heart of Kyoto. This area isn’t just famous for its landmarks—it’s also my home, where my family has lived for generations. I’ll share stories and insights only a true local can offer, from hidden alleys to cultural traditions most visitors never hear about. We’ll walk about 3 km, exploring highlights like Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Yasaka Shrine, and the charming Sannenzaka street. Along the way, I’ll show you hidden gems and share local tips on where to eat, shop, and explore afterward. Important notes: - Includes slopes and steps, not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. - Starts from Minamiza Theater (or your requested spot) - Ends at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, where you can explore freely after. - No meal stops, but light snack breaks are possible if you wish. - The area can be crowded, so not ideal for those seeking quiet spots.
We loved Akari's expertise and enthusiasm. She is a true Kyoto local. Great pre and post tour communications and recommendations as well. Her English fluency is very strong and she will honestly answer any conceivable questions you have on traditional and contemporary Japanese culture. She made our brief tour very insightful, flexible and fun. We came away well prepared for further explorations in Kyoto. We would 100% recommend Akari.
Akari was an excellent guide: knowledgeable, friendly, and kind. In advance of the tour, she communicated the meeting spot which was very helpful. During the tour, she provided informative explanations and answered our questions. We recommend her for those who want an insider's walking tour of Kyoto.
Akari is a fabulous guide. She is very knowledgeable and very accommodating to where we wanted to go. She’s also warm, friendly and fun! Couldn’t be better!
Akari is a fantastic tour guide. She is very knowledgeable, answers questions, is kind, charming, fun and an absolute delight. We couldn’t have had a better guide!
- Minamiza Theater Historic kabuki theater marking the entrance of Gion. - Hanamikoji Street Famous street with teahouses, home to geisha and maiko. - Yasaka Shrine Shinto shrine with vermilion gates and local traditions. - Ishibe Alley Quiet stone alley with preserved old Kyoto charm. - Nene-no-Michi Scenic lane named after samurai leader Hideyoshi’s wife. - Yasaka Pagoda (Hōkan-ji Temple) Iconic five-story pagoda and top photo spot. - Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka Historic slopes lined with shops and cafes. - Kiyomizu-dera Temple UNESCO site with wooden stage and city views.
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.
This is primarily a walking tour. Please note that there are some slopes and stairs along the route. Since it is a private tour, we can move at a comfortable pace.
Kyoto, Kyoto, 605-0075, Japan
I will be waiting in front of Minamiza Theater (南座). Address: 京都市東山区四条大橋東詰, Kyoto 605-0075, Japan. Google maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/DMTZ6sR3fa75HYJHA
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3 hours
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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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