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
(332)
Hi, I’m Toga
Hi, I’m Toga
I’ve lived in Kyoto for 23 years
I speak English, Japanese
I am Photographer
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
B.A.
Food
Photography
Culture & customs
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
Experiences I love to host
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)
My reviews
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Good experience covering a lot of territory...highly recommend Toga
April 2024
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Our tour around Kyoto with our guide Toga was perfect. He listened to what we were interested in and tailored the tour to our interests with his local expertise. He took us to his favorite places and we really appreciated that. He was also easy to talk to and we enjoyed the conversation and getting to know him. We recommend Toga as a guide around Kyoto, he really is wonderful at his craft. Thank you again so much Toga!!
April 2024
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Our guide Toga was fantastic. Really delivered the type of tour we were hoping for, full of cherry blossom spots and stunning gardens. He took us to an amazing spot for lunch and gave fantastic recommendations. Cannot recommended this tour enough!
April 2024
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Toga was an amazing guide and did everything in his power to ensure we had the best experience possible. Even when my partner became unwell, he was very accommodating and helpful in ensuring they had everything they needed. Food was great- some of the best bento boxes I have ever had, and the Sakura spots were top notch even with the late blooms this year. Toga also shared some great recommendations for food and drink spots that I can’t wait to try out. Highly recommend this tour for anyone interested in learning a bit more about Kyoto and seeing some breathtaking gardens.
April 2024