Kyoto (Living), Shiga
English, Japanese (Native)
6 hours on average
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Hello! I am Kanae, a nationally licensed guide. While working full-time as a lecturer at a local university in Kyoto, I have also been guiding for two years.
Born and raised in Kyoto, I am excited to share the beauty and culture of my hometown with my customers. Kyoto is an enchanting city, and even as a local, I am continually fascinated by its many charming spots. Whether it's the serene temples, vibrant markets, or hidden gems, there is always something new to explore and appreciate in this wonderful city.
Also, since my home is close to Shiga Prefecture, I am very familiar with the area. While Shiga may not be as popular as Kyoto, it offers a wealth of attractions for tourists. From historical sites such as temples and shrines to the stunning natural beauty of Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan, there is much to see and do. I am passionate about promoting Shiga and sharing its unique charm with visitors.
My family had a blast spending the day with Kanae. We asked to see the REAL side of Kyoto and the community. Our request was fulfilled and enjoyed every moment. We even got to eat at a local restaurant ( very good too). You have made Kyoto feel welcoming and we will be sure to come back to Japan and stay in Kyoto.
Our family of 4 had a wonderful experience with Kanae. She is knowledgable, thoughtful, personable and flexible with our needs. We enjoyed the our time with her and especially enjoyed a beautiful garden that was not on our list.
My group and I recently had the pleasure of a tour led by Kanae, and it was truly exceptional. On the day of our tour, she went above and beyond by providing cold drinks and ice packs to help us cope with the July heat. Having access to a car significantly reduced travel time and eased the discomfort of the humid weather. Despite the less-than-ideal conditions, Kanae remained bright, cheerful, and dedicated to ensuring we had a fantastic experience. As a Kyoto native, Kanae possessed an intimate knowledge of the city, its culture, and both major and lesser-known sites. She was an outstanding steward of the historical landmarks we visited, offering insights and fascinating historical facts that brought each site to life. Kanae's ability to connect with the group, answering questions with patience and genuine interest, made the tour feel personalized and interactive. She was open about her life in Japan, local customs, and her family, and she asked thoughtful questions about our experiences in Japan, life in the US, and our backgrounds. By the end of the tour, it was clear that Kanae is not only an excellent guide but also a wonderful ambassador for the region. I left with a deeper appreciation for Japan and a wealth of knowledge. Kanae is an absolute gem. If she is available during your trip, it would be the easiest and best decision you could make to book her tour.
Ronak! I’m touched by your kind and generous review! I truly appreciated your high spirits in enjoying Kyoto despite the severe heat. I was also impressed by how much you already knew about our history and culture. I really enjoyed guiding you all. Thank you so much!
Great 6 hour tour in private car. Our guide Kanae was professional, spoke good english and very nice person. Ensured we beat the heat and crowds.
Steen, thank you for your kind review! I am glad you had a good time. I hope you will enjoy the rest of your stay in Japan!