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Joined 2025
Michele S.
Available Areas
Kyoto (Living)
Languages
English (Native), Italian (Native), Japanese
Response Time
4 hours on average
Availability Updated
1 day ago
About Tour Guide Michele S.
My name is Michele, I’m 33 years old, and I’m originally from Italy. I’ve been living in Kyoto, Japan, since 2019. My journey began when I left Italy at the age of 22, seeking adventure and new experiences. I spent five incredible years living in Oceania, where I immersed myself in different cultures and explored breathtaking landscapes. During this time, I also traveled extensively across Asia, discovering its rich diversity and deepening my passion for exploring new places.
In 2019, my wife Shizuka and I decided to settle in Kyoto to start a family. We chose Kyoto because of its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, which has captivated us ever since. Over the years, we’ve traveled all over Japan, uncovering both its hidden gems and its iconic destinations.
I’m an outdoor enthusiast who loves hiking and cycling. Whether it’s climbing mountain trails, exploring serene temples, or biking through picturesque countryside, I find joy in experiencing Japan’s beauty firsthand. My passion for the outdoors has also allowed me to discover many lesser-known spots that offer an authentic glimpse into the charm of Kyoto and beyond.
As your guide, I’d love to share my knowledge and love for Kyoto with you. Whether it’s visiting famous landmarks or exploring hidden treasures off the beaten path, I’m here to make your journey memorable, personalized, and full of unique experiences. Let’s discover the magic of Kyoto together!
Tours
All tours can be customized for you. Send me a message with your requests!
Categories
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Timeless Kyoto: A Day of Walking and Wonder
Step into Kyoto’s heart on this unforgettable walking tour. Begin at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, then stroll through historic lanes like Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka. Admire Yasaka Pagoda, relax at Chion-in Temple, and end at Fushimi Inari Shrine with its iconic red torii gates. Along the way, I’ll share hidden gems and local stories. Having lived in Kyoto for over five years and with my wife’s local roots, I’m your personal guide to the city’s best-kept secrets. Don’t miss this unique Kyoto experience!
Timeless Kyoto: A Day of Walking and Wonder
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Kyoto Kurama: The Mountain of Serenity
Embark on a spiritual journey through Kyoto's Mt. Kurama, a sacred mountain known for its energy and healing power. This hike, suitable for all ages with a decent fitness level, leads you through over 40 temples, shrines, and landmarks, offering both physical and mental rejuvenation. Feel the mountain's spirit as you learn about the ancient legends of demons that once roamed here. The journey ends in the tranquil Kifune Village, where the purified waters of the Kifune River rejuvenate the spirit
Kyoto Kurama: The Mountain of Serenity
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Kyoto, Arashiyama Expedition Walking Tour
The Kyoto, Arashiyama Expedition is a serene journey through Japan's natural beauty, perfect for all ages. Begin in Takao Forest, exploring hidden waterfalls, ancient temples, and secret shrines. Visit the peaceful Otaji Nembutsuji Temple and wander through the stunning bamboo forest. In summer, enjoy a refreshing dip in the Kyotaki River. This off-the-beaten-path tour offers a peaceful escape to Kyoto’s hidden wonders.
Kyoto, Arashiyama Expedition Walking Tour
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Kyoto Temples & Sake Discovery Half-Day Walking Tour
Join me for an unforgettable Kyoto adventure, combining spirituality and sake-making. We’ll start at Fushimi Inari Taisha, walking through the iconic red torii gates. Then, explore the Fushimi Sake District, one of Japan’s oldest sake regions, and taste local brews. The tour ends at a historic sake factory with a glass of sake. With over five years in Kyoto Fushimi, I’ll guide you through this unique experience blending history, culture, and flavor.
Kyoto Temples & Sake Discovery Half-Day Walking Tour
Reviews
Ally S.
“A Must-Have Experience!”
Michele is an amazing tour guide! This was our first day in Kyoto, and we did a 6 am tour with him. Definitely a highlight of our trip! Kyoto was nice and peaceful, Michele was very knowledgeable, and all the places he took us were great! He moved at our speed, never making us feel that we needed to rush. In addition, Michele was very engaging and entertaining. Another huge benefit was that he knew the best places to stop for pictures, and took incredible photos of us! Overall, it was an amazing experience and we can't recommend him enough!
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Michele S.
Thank you Ally for the wonderful review!!
Marc G.
“Amazing day trip to Arashiyama with super guide!”
We booked this amazing walk to discover this wonderful nature on the outskirts of Kyoto. Michele was absolutely super, not only in designing an itinerary to our liking but was also extremely attentive to our needs during the tour. He shared with us his secrets so our journey was a memorable and unique experience as we immersed ourselves in the local culture, from lunch to coffee time and picture perfect spots. We highly recommend. Marc and Dominique, Montreal, Canada.
Michele S.
Thank you for the amazing review guys!!
Dean R.
“Amazing, inspiring, relaxed pace”
Michele was such a great guide! Knowledge of the area, not only did he guide us through the sites, he gave us tips for the rest of our stay. Great personality, spoke English well, was patient when we wanted to shop and really enhanced our experience in Kyoto. Great day!!
Michele S.
Thank you Dean for the amazing review!!
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Nicolas I.
Hello, my name is Nicolas. I’m originally from Argentina and have been living in Japan for the past eight years, proudly calling Osaka my home. Being married to a Japanese wife has given me a strong personal connection to the culture and a deeper understanding of everyday life here, far beyond what most visitors get to see. Tourism has always been my passion and profession, and I have spent these years working in the tour industry, helping travelers discover Japan in a meaningful and enjoyable way. I love sharing not only the famous landmarks, but also the small details, stories, and local experiences that make this country so special. My goal is to make every tour feel relaxed, authentic, and memorable—like exploring Japan with a knowledgeable friend who truly loves living here. I look forward to welcoming you and showing you this amazing place I now call home.
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Robert K.
Hello from the enchanting Kyoto! My name is Robert, I studied Japanology at University and live in Kyoto. I offer professional tours in Nara and Kyoto. Let's visit the beautiful temples, Zen gardens and shrines together, combined with the culinary experiences that these cities have to offer. You will learn a lot about the history and culture of this beautiful country. It is very important to me that my guests experience a relaxing time without any hustle and bustle, that they can enjoy the beauty in peace, and that they find a moment of tranquillity far away from their hectic everyday lives. If I have piqued your interest, please feel free to contact me. We can discuss the tour itinerary together; I will tailor it entirely to your personal wishes. Thank you for taking the time to read my advertisement. I look forward to hearing from you. Best regards from Kyoto, Robert
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Yuka M.
Hello! I'm Yuka. I was born and raised in Kyoto through and through. I know Kyoto inside and out. I am a Kyoto City Certified Interpreter Guide. I want visitors to truly experience and understand the city where I was born and raised. With many years in customer service, I take pride in my communication skills and hospitality. Having studied in U.S.,I enjoy cultural exchanges and connecting with people from different backgrounds. I also love sharing Japanese cuisine-how to make it and the culture behind it-so I can guide you through Kyoto's groumet scene in depth. Come and enojoy Kyoto through the eyes of a local!
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