Hi, I’m Michael
Hi, I’m Michael
I’ve lived in Kyoto for 6 years
I speak English and some Japanese
I am a Restaurant Owner and Chef
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
My knowledge & interests
BS Science Journalism
Food
Street food
Local cuisine
Food markets
Art galleries & museums
Parks
Gardens
Street photography
Wine
Gin
Local beers
Department stores
Vintage shops
Street markets
Popular culture
Lifestyle culture
Japanese sake
Antique shops
Landscape photography
Night photography
Classical music
Pop music
Jazz music
Rock music
Blues music
R&B
Soul music
Funk music
Reggae
Shochu
My reviews
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Michael gave us a great tour for our first experience of Kyoto. I would send all of my friends straight to him without hesitation. I would definitely recommend that you come ready to walk! We covered a lot of ground
Oct 2025
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We had a womderful tour with our guide, Michael. He gave us a true local's view of Kyoto, and as an American, more honest insights into local customs than we probably would've gotten from a more reserved Japanese guide. Michael led us through a 4 hour comprehensive tour of historic Kyoto, with stops at key shrines and temples along the way. Be aware that the tour does involve quite a bit of walking and stair climbing, particularly if you go on a hot, humid day. Overall, we would highly recommend this tour, and Michael in particular if you can get him.
Sep 2025
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Michael was brilliant - so knowledgeable and great content. My three friends and I really enjoyed the tour and extra effort he put in to tailor it to our needs including a great dinner recommendation.
Sep 2025
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Great tour!!
Aug 2025