Kobe is a vibrant port city near Osaka and renowned for its culinary delights, stunning views, and rich cultural heritage. Its name has become world-famous for its high-quality wagyu, Kobe beef. You can savor this delicacy with its exceptional marbling and tenderness at restaurants throughout the city.
Kobe offers a variety of attractions that cater to all interests. Kobe Suma Sea World is a popular destination for families, featuring marine life exhibits and entertaining shows. You can take the ropeway to the top of Mount Rokko or Nunobiki Herb Garden for breathtaking panoramic city views.
The Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum is a unique attraction showcasing Japanese carpentry's history and craftsmanship. It's a fascinating place to learn about traditional woodworking techniques and tools.
Kobe's Harborland is a bustling waterfront area with shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the scenic views of the harbor. Additionally, the Nada district is famous for its sake breweries, where visitors can tour the facilities and sample some of Japan's finest sake.
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
Emi
Licensed Museum Curator; Fashion, Art, & Golf Expert; Provides Worry-free Tours with 20 years of Secretary Experience at Osaka University.
Emi
Guide Experience
10 years or more
Area
Kanazawa,Kyoto,Osaka,Nara,Kobe,Himeji,Hiroshima,Shiga,Okayama,The Seto Inland Sea,Kagawa
Languages
English
Qualifications
Expertise
Shrine/Temple,Castle,Japanese Garden,World Heritage,ART,Japanese History,Traditional Culture,Pottery,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.
Mika
MA in Museum Studies (University of Leicester), Girl Scout of JAPAN
Mika
Guide Experience
Less than 5 years
Area
Kyoto,Kobe
Languages
English
Qualifications
Expertise
Shrine/Temple,Japanese History,Pottery,Art Crafts
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 resident volunteer at Pax Lodge, one of the WAGGGS World Centres in London. I look forward to meeting you and sharing an unforgettable experience in Japan.
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!
TK
Well-versed in the History and Local Culture of Kansai; Expert in Foodie Tours, from Gastronomic Restaurants to Local Hidden Gems;Train Buff
TK
Guide Experience
5 years or more
Area
Kanazawa,Kyoto,Osaka,Nara,Kobe,Himeji,Hiroshima,Shiga
Languages
English
Qualifications
Expertise
Shrine/Temple,FOOD,Japanese History,Trains,Shopping
Hi there! My name is Tetsuya KAWABATA, a government certified interpreter and guide. I was born and raised in Shiga Prefecture, 8 miles or 14 km east of Kyoto. I spent seven years of high school and college in Kyoto, Japan. I worked for a company in Osaka for over 30 years before becoming an interpreter-guide. Additionally, I am well versed in the history and local information of Kobe, Nara, and Wakayama. The Kansai region, especially Kyoto, Nara, and Shiga, is the motherland of Japanese history; it has always been the center stage of Japanese history for over 2600 years. In addition, I can take you on tours that not only introduce you to Japan's ancient and traditional cultural treasures and wonderful experiences, but also give you a glimpse into the future. For the foodies among you, we offer plenty of choices, from the most exquisite gastronomic restaurants to casual eateries beloved by the locals. Come join me for a great trip!
ToshiGG
Fluent in English; Offers a Variety of Tours, including Ninja & Samurai Experiences; Well-versed in Local Restaurants and Sweet Shops
ToshiGG
Guide Experience
5 years or more
Area
Kyoto,Osaka,Nara,Kobe,Himeji,Hiroshima
Languages
English
Qualifications
Expertise
Shrine/Temple,FOOD,Japanese History,Shopping
Hello everyone. I'm Toshiaki Ohbayashi, a cheerful and talkative tour guide. I have been guiding small groups around Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Himeji, Hiroshima, and other places in Japan since 2018, which has exceeded 500 days. My top priority as a guide is to be able to offer many options besides temples or shrines. such as Samurai and Ninja experiences. I'm also familiar with lunch restaurants and sweets shops. My nickname is GG, which means grandfather, as I have two grandchildren. I love being a GG, but I also love guiding. I'm looking forward to meeting you and your party soon. Let's have an amazing time with me!
Rumiko, Sunshine
"Wow" and "Ah-ha" Moments Creator, Witty & Humorous, Behind-the-Scenes Buff, Food and Drink Enthusiast, Nara Prefecture-certified Guide
Rumiko, Sunshine
(1)
Guide Experience
10 years or more
Area
Kyoto,Osaka,Nara,Kobe,Himeji,Shiga
Languages
English
Qualifications
Expertise
Shrine/Temple,Castle,Sake,FOOD,Japanese History,Traditional Culture,Shopping
Hello, I'm Sunshine! Growing up in a family deeply devoted to traditional Japanese cultures, such as classical dancing and Kabuki, I have been immersed in the rich heritage that defines this captivating land. Moreover, my professional background includes extensive training in high-end hospitality and presentation skills from diverse corporate environments, ranging from a publishing company to an advertising agency and an engineering firm. As a result, I've developed a unique blend of traditional charm and modern finesse. During our tour, I am thrilled to share with you the historical and traditional aspects of the cities we'll explore and the excitement of new cultures and cutting-edge technologies that define contemporary Japan. With a dash of theatrics, I may even step into the shoes of historical figures, offering you an intimate glimpse into their lives and stories. As we venture together, I will reveal hidden corners and historical gems that might otherwise go unnoticed, creating countless "Wow-moments" that will stay with you for a lifetime. It is my genuine desire to ensure you experience the true essence of Japan, immersing you in its past, present, and future. So, get ready to embark on a truly unforgettable adventure with me. I can't wait to meet all of you and make this journey genuinely extraordinary!
Yuko Smiley Hirai
Fluent in Indonesian; TV Announcer Experience; Voice Trainer; Enthusiastic about Japanese Castles; Friendly Guiding with Smile
Yuko Smiley Hirai
Guide Experience
5 years or more
Area
Kyoto,Osaka,Nara,Kobe,Himeji
Languages
English
Qualifications
Expertise
Castle,FOOD
I am an English-speaking tour guide based in Kansai area including Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kobe and Himeji. I was born in Kobe and raised in a small town near Kobe where I live now. I have worked for a TV station in Kyoto as a reporter. Therefore, I am familiar with lots of attractive spots loved by locals as well as well-known sightseeing spots in Kansai area. I especially love showing my guests around Japanese castles such as Nijo castle and Himeji castle, both of which are well-known UNESCO world heritage sites in Japan, Japanese Sake breweries, Japanese gardens, traditional temples, and shrines. Besides English, I am a fluent speaker of Indonesian since I used to study and work in Indonesia for three years. I love traveling around the world, too! I am flexible and love pleasing guests during the tour. Let's enjoy exploring cities in Japan like locals! I am looking forward to meeting you soon!