Loves Food & Local Culture

Hi, I’m Michael

Hello, I'm Michael, and I would like to introduce myself and share with you why I live in Kyoto and love it so much. My journey began seven years ago when I took a break from my Italian restaurant in Houston, Texas, and traveled to Japan. Starting in Sendai and Matsushima, I went down to Miyajima and Hiroshima, and then I worked my way back to Tokyo. Along the way, I stopped in Kobe, Osaka, Nara, and Kyoto. After only two days and nights in Kyoto, I knew that this city was special. Once back in the USA, I made a plan for the next chapter of my life. Living in Japan! Moving and living here has been, and is so rewarding. The people are so kind, the country is amazingly beautiful and the food is absolutely delicious. During the first few years, I explored the countryside and traversed most of the city, worked as a rafting guide on the Setagawa River, and, up until last December, owned and operated one of only three Cajun establishments in all of Japan. My hobbies include surfing, scuba, camping, enjoying wines from across the globe, museums, the fine arts and obviously cooking. I hope you will allow me to spend a little time with you so I can show you what makes Kyoto one of a kind. Thank you

4.91 (80)

I’ve lived in Kyoto for 6 years

I speak English and some Japanese

I am a Restaurant Owner and Chef

My Interests are:

Street food Local cuisine Food markets Art galleries & museums Parks Gardens

Here’s how I can help make your experience unique.

I love to explore

Street Food & Local Cuisine
Galleries & Local Arts
Parks & Scenic Gardens
Vintage & Antique Shopping

Languages I speak

English
Japanese

My hosting style

I love sharing Kyoto through its hidden corners, rich history, and incredible flavors, making you feel like you’re exploring with a friend.

Fun fact about me

Before moving to Kyoto, I ran an Italian restaurant in Houston and even owned one of Japan's few Cajun spots—food has always been a big part of my story!

My Favorite Experiences To Host

Pre-Trip Planning Session

Kyoto

Kyoto trip planning video call

5 (47)

30-90 minutes

From $25 per person

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Video chat or email with a local to plan your perfect trip or get answers to all your questions

Seasonal Highlights

Kyoto

Kyoto in pink: Experience the cherry blossom season like a local

5 (65)

4 hours

From $201.38 per person

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Join a local for an authentic cherry blossom experience. Discover secret sakura spots, enjoy a traditional picnic, and immerse in the beauty of hanami

Local Food & Drink Tastings

Kyoto

Kyoto’s Izakaya Experience: A Taste of Japanese Social Dining

5 (71)

3 hours

From $182.5 per person

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Discover Kyoto’s izakaya culture, where locals gather over shared plates, drinks, and conversation, with a tailored experience crafted to your tastes.

Hidden Gems

Kyoto

Kyoto’s Best-Kept Secrets: A Hidden Gems Discovery

5 (778)

3 hours

From $120.5 per person

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Uncover Kyoto’s hidden side with peaceful temples, serene gardens, and quiet canals, all curated to reveal the city’s authentic, crowd-free charm.

Flexible Full-Day Discovery

Kyoto

Kyoto, Your Story: A Full-Day of Icons, Culture & Hidden Gems

5 (504)

8 hours

From $265.5 per person

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Your perfect Kyoto day, tailored to you. Explore icons, hidden gems & culture with a local host shaping a flexible experience around your interests.

City Essentials: First Day

Kyoto

Your First Day in Kyoto: City Essentials and Cultural Insights

5 (576)

3 hours

From $120.5 per person

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Ease into Kyoto’s rhythm with a thoughtful 3-hour introduction to its iconic sights, cultural nuances, and local tips, leaving you ready to explore.

Night Experiences

Kyoto

Magical Kyoto after dark

5 (121)

3 hours

From $151.5 per person

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Explore Kyoto at night with a local. Explore mystical Gion and the winding streets in Pontocho or mingle with the locals at a bar; it's up to you!

Mystical Gion: explore the iconic geisha district

Traditions & Heritage

Kyoto

Mystical Gion: explore the iconic geisha district

5 (218)

3 hours

From $120.5 per person

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Explore Kyoto's most mesmerizing district, see stunning temples, traditional shops, and maybe even the odd geisha hurrying to her next appointment

Iconic Sights & Hidden Gems

Kyoto

Top 8 must-sees: magical Kyoto

5 (38)

8 hours

From $265.5 per person

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Visit some of Kyoto's top sites in a day, from the Kinkakuji temple and Fushimi Inari gates to the Nishiki market, and a sprinkle of hidden gems

Local Food & Drink Tastings

Kyoto

Eat like a Kyoto local in and around Nishiki Market

5 (44)

3 hours

From $168 per person

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Wander through the 400-year-old Nishiki Market, trying local specialties like "konna monja" donuts, buttered potato tempura and "dashimaki tamago"

Articles I Recommend or Wrote

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What My Guests Think of Me

Kartika 10 March 2026

Michael was a great host and it was like meeting an old friend who has lived in Japan and could share his experiences. He balanced history with cultural knowledge. Was able to adjust the plan based on our interests. He was fun and was able to set up a day to see the best of Kyoto!

Scott 23 February 2026

This was a wonderful tour. We were matched with a guide based on our preferences, and they took care of the rest. We were meet at our ryoken, discussed the purpose itenerary/route and headed off. We saw temple, shrines and other key landmarks. All the whole, our guide filled is in on history, culture and other unique facts we wouldn't have gotten on our own. Highly recommended.

Meredith 17 February 2026

Michael was excellent, knowledgeable and fun! He left us with wonderful food and shopping recommendations! We will definitely do this again at next visit. Thank you, Michael!

Richard 1 November 2025

Michael had a unique perspective since he moved there about 9 years ago from the US. He could give us a good feel what it is like to live in a different culture than we are used to. He was enthusiastic and well versed in the history of the area. One of the best tours we have been on.

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Hi, I’m Milo

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5.0 (209)

I'm here to make your Kyoto experience unforgettable. You'll often find me wandering the charming streets, uncovering hidden gems for filming and sharing a good laugh with fellow explorers. From the historic Higashiyama to the picturesque Arashiyama I know these neighborhoods like the back of my hand. I'm your go-to guru for temples and shrines that whisper ancient tales, scenic routes that unfold like poetry, and a history that weaves the city's soul. I thrive on unveiling the city's secrets, those off-the-beaten-track spots that infuse Kyoto with an irresistible allure. Join me for an exhilarating journey through Kyoto's wonders. Let's create memories and embark on a thrilling adventure. Kyoto awaits, and I can't wait to explore it with you!