Hi, I’m Toga

(104)
Kyoto
Toga

Hi, I’m Toga

(104)

I’ve lived in Kyoto for 23 years

I speak English, Japanese

I am Photographer

VIDEO CALL Toga

I grew up in Tendo City, Yamagata Prefecture, and studied abroad in Seattle, USA after graduating from high school. I learned English while experiencing the Seattle music scene in the mid-'90s. I discovered black and white photography at Evergreen College in Washington State, and have continued my artistic activities since returning to Japan. This is my 18th year living in Kyoto. I also had a base in Beijing, China, and traveled back and forth for several years. I have about 4.5 years of experience as a manager in a cafe bar attached to a guesthouse with many foreign guests in Kyoto, and about 2 years of experience as a local attendant and long-time guide around the local Yamagata area. I can guide you through a wide range of activities from photography art, local music, Japanese culture, food, and drink.

My knowledge & interests

Hosts graduation B.A. Hosts expertise Food Hosts expertise Photography Hosts expertise Culture & customs Hosts expertise Music
Street food Local cuisine Food markets Fine dining Unique & unusual foods Cinema Art galleries & museums Street art Parks Scenic routes Wildlife Political history Social history Architectural history Religious history Street photography Portrait photography Modern architecture Classical architecture Wine Gin Local beers Artisanal tea Vintage shops Street markets Handicrafts & souvenirs Traditional culture Religious customs Lifestyle culture Rituals & ceremonial customs Alternative or underground culture Gourmet food Traditional drinks Japanese sake Folk art Art history Second-hand markets Specialty shops Music stores Antique shops Landscape photography Wildlife photography Nature photography Post-modern architecture Classical music Jazz music Rock music Blues music Traditional music Folk music Electronic music Funk music Reggae Indie music Sake
VIDEO CALL Toga
kyoto

Experiences I love to host

Half day in Magical Kyoto
City Unscripted Original

Half day in Magical Kyoto Half day

4 hours tailored to what you want to see and do. So whether it's ticking off main sites or discovering hidden gems, it's up to you and your host!

$138.6 per person

4 hours

  • (438)

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

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

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

$190.48 per person

4 hours

  • (18)

Eat & drink like a local: the Japanese izakaya dining edition
City Unscripted Original

Eat & drink like a local: the Japanese izakaya dining edition Food & Drink

From old-school izakaya full of regulars to tiny standing bars serving homestyle food, eat like a local on an experience tailored to your tastebuds

$171.73 per person

3 hours

  • (23)

Sunrise to sunset: the ultimate Kyoto experience
City Unscripted Original

Sunrise to sunset: the ultimate Kyoto experience Full day

The Kyoto you want to experience in a day! See the main sites, taste the incredible food scene or go off the tourist trail. It's totally up to you!

$254.1 per person

8 hours

  • (354)

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My reviews

    He knew such a lot about history. Was extremely helpful. We had a tea great time with him. Will recommend highly recommended him.

    July 2024

    Mueller H

    Togashi was our guide today. He did an amazing job explaining us all the things we saw and about Japans’s history.

    May 2024

    Marta S

    We had a great tour today with Toga! He showed us a lot of highlights and off the beaten path places throughout Kyoto. He was friendly, very knowledgeable, and an excellent guide!

    May 2024

    Eric T

    Excellent and special tour with Toga! He was great, friendly, and super knowledgeable! Highly recommended to any Kyoto visitor!

    May 2024

    Eric T

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