Hi, I’m Austen
Hi, I’m Austen
I’ve lived in Kyoto for 3 years
I speak English, Japanese, Burmese and some Spanish
I am Student
Hey there! I'm Austen, your local host in Kyoto. This city is a beautiful blend of modernity and history, allowing you to seamlessly experience different lifestyles. I absolutely love exploring Kyoto on my bicycle, uncovering hidden gems along the way. My friends and I often go on "temple hunting" adventures, relishing the serene atmosphere and fascinating histories of the shrines, especially at night. Between Ichijoji and Tofukuji, Imadegawa, Nijo, and Downtown neighborhoods, I know Kyoto like the back of my hand. From popular spots to hidden treasures, my deep appreciation for the city ensures you get a unique and authentic experience. Join me in Kyoto, and let's create wonderful memories together as we immerse ourselves in the city's rich culture and soothing ambiance. I can't wait to meet you!
My knowledge & interests
Department of Informatics, Computer Science course
Food
Nature / outdoors
Culture & customs
Street food
Local cuisine
Desserts
Food markets
Fine dining
Unique & unusual foods
Theater
Cinema
Art galleries & museums
Street art
Parks
Gardens
Scenic routes
Wildlife
Hikes
Social history
Architectural history
Religious history
Cityscape photography
Street photography
Portrait photography
Modern architecture
Classical architecture
Wine
Third wave coffee
Artisanal tea
High-end fashion boutiques
Department stores
Street markets
Handicrafts & souvenirs
Traditional culture
Popular culture
Religious customs
Rituals & ceremonial customs
Local speciality drinks
Traditional drinks
Japanese sake
Performance art
Traditional art
Thrift stores
Second-hand markets
Video game stores
Landscape photography
Wildlife photography
Food photography
Fashion photography
Night photography
Nature photography
Post-modern architecture
Classical music
Pop music
Jazz music
Rock music
Traditional music
Country music
Electronic music
Hip-hop
Soul music
Metal music
My reviews
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Thank you very much Austen for such a memorable day in Kyoto. The landmarks experienced today through the history and cultural insights you shared provided for an amazing tour.
June 2025
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Austin do an incredible job with our family. We had seen a few things so he was totally flexible and just took us to places that he thought would interest us. We all had a lot of options so he was a champ to put up with us. He had a great knowledge of the history and culture which really gave us good perspective and insights on what we were seeing. Thanks Austin.
May 2025
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Austen was an exceptional host. Personable and knowledgeable. We enjoyed our experience in Kyoto.
May 2025
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Austen was absolutely brilliant. We only had three hours with him (wish we’d booked him for days!) and mainly wanted to avoid the busy tourist hubs so he took us to a couple of temples and shrines that were totally off the beaten track and fast became some of our absolute favourites from our three weeks in Japan. He also walked us through some interesting, pretty and quiet neighbourhoods and then (at our request) took as to the rather more hectic (but still handsome and interesting) Gion district. He was wonderfully knowledgeable - on history, culture, religion - and shared his deep understanding of these aspects of Japan generously and relatably and with humour as well as personal insight. He also gave us much appreciated restaurant and museum tips. We would recommend him a hundred times over.
May 2025