Hi, I’m Ian

Kyoto
Ian

Hi, I’m Ian

I’ve lived in Kyoto for 5 years

I speak English, Mandarin, Japanese, Cantonese and some French

I am a private tour guide and cultural interpreter

VIDEO CALL Ian

Kyoto is a city of quiet traditions and youthful energy, and I love exploring both sides. Having lived here as a student for seven years, I’ve discovered hidden corners that most visitors miss—small artisan workshops, underground art pop-ups, and cozy cafés where students gather to exchange ideas. The backstreets of Kamigyō and the lively university areas of Higashiyama are where Kyoto’s creative pulse beats the strongest. Whether it’s tracing the city’s history or uncovering its freshest perspectives, I love sharing the blend of old and new that makes Kyoto truly special.

My knowledge & interests

Hosts graduation B.A Global and Regional Studies, Doshisha
Street food Local cuisine Desserts Food markets Fine dining Unique & unusual foods Theater Cinema Art galleries & museums Parks Gardens Scenic routes Wildlife Political history Social 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 Vintage shops Street markets Handicrafts & souvenirs Traditional culture Popular culture Religious customs Lifestyle culture Rituals & ceremonial customs Alternative or underground culture Gourmet food Vegetarian food Vegan food Local speciality drinks Traditional drinks Performance art Traditional art Contemporary art Thrift stores Second-hand markets Specialty shops Bookstores Video game stores Antique shops Landscape photography Food photography Night photography Nature photography Ethnic culture Pop music Jazz music Country music Indie music
VIDEO CALL Ian
kyoto

My reviews

    I highly recommend this tour. Our tour guide Ian was terrific! Friendly, knowledgeable and generous - we went to lots of incredible spots, temples and gardens. Then Ian took us to authentic restaurants and eateries, including one where we ate the best ramen of our lives! We started the day in beautiful Higashiyama and made our way through the old railway lined with cherry blossoms in Keage. It was truly magical! We visited Heian Shrine and the peaceful royal garden, enjoyed tea by the water and saw the two sacred trees - cherry and tangerine. After that we walked to Nanzen-ji Temple, passed the canal museum and took a cozy break at Shinpukan - with coffee and mochi. In the afternoon we wandered through Gino and Hanami Koji, passed the Yasaka Pagoda, visited the Love Shrine and ended at Pontocho Street. Ian was amazing and gave our whole family a remarkable experience - it was our favorite day of the trip!!

    April 2025

    Gabrielle M