Trusted by 500+ travelers worldwide
Private Tour Guide
in Tokyo & Osaka
Food tours. Cultural experiences. Custom itineraries.
Your personal English-speaking guide to Japan.
500+
Travelers Guided
5.0 ★
Average Rating
3+
Years Guiding
20+
Agency Partners
Meet Your Guide, Mao
I'm Mao — a trilingual tour guide (English, Japanese, Chinese) based in Tokyo. After 15 years in international business, I followed my real passion and became a private tour guide in 2023. Since then, I've guided over 500 travelers from the US, Europe, Australia, and Asia.
My background in business means I understand what international travelers and travel agencies need: reliability, clear communication, and genuinely memorable experiences. I bring that professionalism to every tour — while keeping things fun and personal.
I also run a Japanese food YouTube channel with 15,000+ subscribers, so I know the best hidden restaurants, street food stalls, and local bars that most guides never take you to. I've also been featured in collaborations with major Japanese brands, including Asahi Beer.
Whether it's a Tsukiji food tour, a knife-making workshop, a temple walk through Asakusa, or a full-day custom itinerary — I design each tour around what excites you.
Trilingual
English · Japanese · Chinese
500+ Guests
Since 2023
15K YouTube
Food & travel content
15 Years in Business
International experience
Private Tour Experiences in Tokyo & Osaka
Curated private tours designed to take you deeper into Japan's food, culture, and traditions. Every tour is fully customizable.
Tokyo Food & Market Discovery Tour
Explore the vibrant streets of Tsukiji Outer Market, taste your way through Ameyoko, and discover hidden standing bars where locals eat. From street food to high-end wagyu beef, this private food tour is a journey through Japan's incredible food culture.
Tokyo Culture & Temples Tour
Visit the serene Meiji Shrine, walk through the iconic Kaminarimon gate at Senso-ji, explore the Imperial Palace gardens, and experience the energy of Shibuya and Harajuku. A full day immersed in Tokyo's contrasts — ancient and modern.
Hands-On Japan Workshops
Go beyond sightseeing. Try your hand at traditional knife-making in a Tsukiji workshop, learn Japanese calligraphy, join a cooking class with a local chef, or dress in kimono for a private tea ceremony. These are the moments you'll remember.
What Travelers Say
Hear from guests who experienced Tokyo and Osaka with Mao
"Mao made our Tokyo trip unforgettable. The food tour through Tsukiji was the highlight of our entire Japan trip. He knew exactly where to take us and made every stop feel special."
Sarah M.
United States · Food Tour
"We booked Mao for a full-day cultural tour and he was incredible. Knowledgeable, patient with our kids, and genuinely passionate about sharing Japanese culture. Highly recommend!"
James & Family
Australia · Culture Tour
"As a travel agency, finding reliable local guides is critical. Mao has been our go-to guide in Tokyo since 2023. Our clients consistently rate his tours as the best part of their trip."
Travel Agency Partner
Europe · Agency Partnership
Newly Built Home in Osaka
Looking for accommodation in Osaka? Stay at our brand new 2-bedroom home (built 2022) in the Namba East area, walking distance to subway. Perfect for families and small groups up to 6 guests. 59m² of modern living space with full kitchen, two bedrooms, and a private bathroom.
Combine your private tour experience with a comfortable, local stay. Your guide is also your host — get insider tips on where to eat, what to see, and how to navigate Osaka like a local.
For travel agencies & tour operators: Ideal for FIT clients, family bookings, or pre/post-tour stays in the Kansai region. Minimum 2-night stay (Osaka City regulation). English check-in support included. Contact for partnership rates →
For Travel Agencies & Tour Operators
I partner with international travel agencies, DMCs, and luxury travel advisors to provide seamless private guide services across Japan.
Experienced Guide
English-speaking private guide with deep local knowledge
Nationwide Coverage
Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and beyond. Half-day, full-day, or multi-day
Luxury Experience
Guests from Palace Hotel Tokyo, The Royal Park Hotel, Tokyo Edition Ginza
Tour Reports
Same-day tour reports with photos for your records
Reliable & On Time
Professional, punctual, and always prepared
Open to Partnerships
Currently accepting new agency partnerships
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about booking a private tour in Tokyo
How much does a private tour guide in Tokyo cost? +
Pricing depends on group size, duration, and itinerary. Half-day tours (4 hours) and full-day tours (8 hours) are available. Contact me for a personalized quote — I'll design a tour that fits your budget and interests.
Do you offer food tours in Tokyo? +
Yes! The Tokyo Food & Market Discovery tour is my most popular experience. It takes you through Tsukiji Outer Market, Ameyoko street market, hidden standing bars, and wagyu restaurants. All tastings are guided — I'll order for you and explain each dish.
Can you guide tours in Osaka and Kyoto too? +
Absolutely. I offer private tours in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kamakura, Hakone, and other destinations across Japan. Multi-day tours covering multiple cities are also available — perfect for first-time visitors wanting to see the best of Japan.
How do I book a private tour? +
Simply fill out the contact form below or email me directly. Tell me your travel dates, group size, and interests, and I'll create a custom itinerary within 24 hours. Booking early is recommended, especially during cherry blossom season (March-April) and autumn foliage (November).
Is the tour suitable for families with children? +
Definitely! Many of my guests travel with children. I adapt the pace, include kid-friendly activities (like Akihabara, teamLab, or Pikachu experiences), and choose restaurants that welcome families. I've guided families with children as young as 3.
Do you also offer accommodation in Osaka? +
Yes! I host a newly built 2-bedroom home near Namba Station in Osaka, available on Airbnb. It's perfect for families and groups up to 7 guests. Combine your private tour with a local stay — your guide is also your host.
Book Your Private Tour
Planning a trip to Tokyo or Osaka? Send me your travel dates and interests.
I'll create a custom itinerary and respond within 24 hours.