Tour guide in Kyoto Ryan D.

Hello, and welcome! I’m a Swiss-American born and raised in Japan, with a French–Irish father and a Swiss–Japanese mother — a true “walking United Nations.” I’ve been living in Kyoto for over 32 years, and at 37 years old, I still find new wonders in this city every day. For the past 12 years, I’ve worked in hospitality — from hotels and Airbnbs to guiding tours. Kyoto, Japan’s capital for over 1,100 years, is the nation’s cultural heart, home to more than 800 temples, 1,700 shrines, and 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites (the most in the world!). Here, history, Zen, and beauty come together in a way unlike anywhere else. On my tours, I love blending the must-see highlights with hidden gems off the beaten path. I share Kyoto’s stories with plenty of history and insight, but always in a light, conversational way — so it feels more like exploring the city with a local friend than attending a school lecture. And because Kyoto has so many incredible things to experience, I can also customize tours to fit your interests. Want to spend a whole day exploring Zen gardens? Prefer peaceful spots away from the crowds? More excited about food, or shopping, than temples? Whatever your style, I’ll craft a tour designed just for you — so you can enjoy Kyoto in the way that’s most meaningful to you. Join me, and let’s discover the magic of Kyoto together!