How much does a private guide in Japan actually cost?

Every operator in Japan hides this behind a quote form. We would rather write it down.

The guide

A full day with a national-government-licensed guide interpreter generally runs ¥50,000–¥80,000. A half day is roughly 60% of a full day, not half, because the planning is the same.

What is not in that number

• Entry fees. ¥300–¥1,500 per person per site. A full day in Kyoto is about ¥3,000 each.
• Transport. Trains within Tokyo, roughly ¥800–¥1,200 a day. Intercity is separate.
• Meals. Yours, and conventionally your guide’s.
• The guide’s own entry fee, where they come inside with you.

Why licensed costs more

Since 2018 anybody may be paid to guide in Japan. The national licence — written papers in a foreign language, in history, in geography, in general culture, then an oral interview — is passed by fewer than one candidate in ten. You are paying for the person who passed it.

We quote the whole figure in advance and itemise it. Ask us for one.