Private tour in Kyoto Russ M
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Russ M.
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Hello! I’m a professional guide from Wales, and for the past seven years, I’ve been sharing my passion for Kyoto history, culture, and nature with travelers. With a Master’s in Garden History from the University of Bristol and a Postgraduate Certificate in Environmental Education from the University of Wales, I specialize in uncovering the stories behind Kyoto’s breathtaking gardens and landscapes. I first came to Japan in 2010 as a musician touring with my band. Since then, I’ve fallen in love with this country’s culture and married someone from Kanazawa . My background as a songwriter has made me a skilled storyteller, able to bring places to life with humor and personal connections. A fellow guide once told me I make people feel instantly at ease—a compliment I treasure. Over the past decade, I’ve explored Kyoto in depth, discovering off-the-beaten-path treasures that I love sharing with guests. Whether it’s a tucked-away garden, a quiet temple, or a bustling corner of the Kansai live music scene, I’ll take you to places that most tourists never experience. I welcome travelers from all over the world and am happy to tailor tours to your interests. Whether you're a garden lover, a music enthusiast, or simply curious about Kyoto’s rich history and topography, I’m here to make your visit unforgettable. With countless 5-star reviews and a deep love for meeting people, I look forward to showing you the best of Kyoto and Kansai.
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Russ M.
Join me on a half-day bike tour to discover the history of Kyoto from its origins and the birth of the capital city and to its rebirth after the emperors move to Tokyo. After first coming to Japan with my band the Bristol Stingrays in 2010 I developed a love for Kyoto. In fact the first place I stepped outside the bubble of the band was this very area where the tour will take place, when I went for a walk after a soundcheck at Socrates Livehouse. I crossed the bridge which straddles the confluence of the Takano and Kamo Rivers and heard many musicians practicing on the riverbank path. When I came to live in Japan it was this area that I chose, making a home alongside the Takano River. For eight years the Tadasu no Mori (Forest of Truth) was my evening stroll although many Kyotoites are afraid to visit there at night!
We will meet at Demachiyanagi Station. Our route will be as follows: -Tadasu no Mori (the forest of truth) -Kawai shrine -Shimogamo main shrine -Demachiyanagi Shotengai -Imperial Palace grounds -Heian Jingu Gardens As with every TourByLocals tour, this tour is of course customisable. Please contact me using the orange "message guide" button to discuss this. This tour does include a couple of local snacks but if you would like a more substantial meal please contact me and I can arrange this.
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Japanese commuter bike with three gears
Kyoto, Kyoto, 606-8205, Japan
I will be waiting for you at the top of the escalator from Exit 7 of Demachiyanagi Station on the Keihan line
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