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About Kyoto Localized
Local Guides Bring Kyoto to Life.
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Kyoto Localized is operated by Localized Inc. We offer free and paid walking tours, e-bike tours, food tours, private tours, and hands-on cultural experiences in Kyoto.
Our local guides share the Kyoto they know and love, bringing its streets and landmarks to life through the people, traditions, and stories behind them. We help you look beyond the sights and understand how the city’s history connects with everyday life. Our goal is for every guest to leave with a deeper understanding of Kyoto and become a fan of the city—and of Japan.
Our Story
The idea for Localized took shape during founder Dai Miyamoto’s travels while studying abroad. Exploring unfamiliar cities with English-language guidebooks and websites, he discovered tip-based walking tours and experienced how a local guide could turn sightseeing into a meaningful connection with a place.
Back in Japan, Dai founded Tokyo Localized in 2017 while continuing his career in finance. Localized later expanded to Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima.
Our priority has always been the guest experience. A tour should offer more than a route between landmarks—it should deepen your understanding of a city, change how you see it, and leave you with a connection that lasts long after your visit.
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How We Create Our Tours
Every tour starts with understanding a place—its history, culture, and everyday life. We research local stories, explore routes firsthand, and refine each experience to make what we share accurate, engaging, and easy to understand.
Our guides receive route materials, practical training, and ongoing operational support. We maintain consistent standards for accuracy, safety, and service while encouraging each guide to bring their own voice, personality, and connection to Kyoto. Guest feedback helps us keep improving our tours.
By creating opportunities for local guides, we also aim to share the benefits of tourism with the local community.
Part of Localized
Kyoto Localized is part of Localized Inc., which operates local tour brands in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Hiroshima.
Each city has its own character, stories, and local guides. Across Localized, we share the same goal: to create experiences that help travelers understand the places they visit and build a lasting connection with them.
Join Kyoto Localized
We welcome applications from people who love Kyoto and enjoy sharing it with visitors from around the world. We value curiosity, reliability, clear communication, and a genuine interest in learning more about the city.
Selected guides receive route materials, practical training, and ongoing support. To apply, choose “Tour Guide Application” in the form below.
Contact Kyoto Localized
For general questions, media or business inquiries, or tour guide applications, please use the form below and choose the appropriate inquiry type.
Guide applicants should include details of their connection to Kyoto, language skills, availability, and relevant experience.