Hi, I’m Austen
Hi, I’m Austen
I’ve lived in Kyoto for 3 years
I speak English, Japanese, Burmese and some Spanish
I am Student
Hey there! I'm Austen, your local host in Kyoto. This city is a beautiful blend of modernity and history, allowing you to seamlessly experience different lifestyles. I absolutely love exploring Kyoto on my bicycle, uncovering hidden gems along the way. My friends and I often go on "temple hunting" adventures, relishing the serene atmosphere and fascinating histories of the shrines, especially at night. Between Ichijoji and Tofukuji, Imadegawa, Nijo, and Downtown neighborhoods, I know Kyoto like the back of my hand. From popular spots to hidden treasures, my deep appreciation for the city ensures you get a unique and authentic experience. Join me in Kyoto, and let's create wonderful memories together as we immerse ourselves in the city's rich culture and soothing ambiance. I can't wait to meet you!
My knowledge & interests
Department of Informatics, Computer Science course
Food
Nature / outdoors
Culture & customs
Street food
Local cuisine
Desserts
Food markets
Fine dining
Unique & unusual foods
Theater
Cinema
Art galleries & museums
Street art
Parks
Gardens
Scenic routes
Wildlife
Hikes
Social history
Architectural history
Religious history
Cityscape photography
Street photography
Portrait photography
Modern architecture
Classical architecture
Wine
Third wave coffee
Artisanal tea
High-end fashion boutiques
Department stores
Street markets
Handicrafts & souvenirs
Traditional culture
Popular culture
Religious customs
Rituals & ceremonial customs
Local speciality drinks
Traditional drinks
Japanese sake
Performance art
Traditional art
Thrift stores
Second-hand markets
Video game stores
Landscape photography
Wildlife photography
Food photography
Fashion photography
Night photography
Nature photography
Post-modern architecture
Classical music
Pop music
Jazz music
Rock music
Traditional music
Country music
Electronic music
Hip-hop
Soul music
Metal music
My reviews
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Austin was amazing at finding hidden places without the crowds. Also great choice of coffee stop and sweet recommendation
April 2025
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Although we had visited Kyoto before, experiencing it through the eyes of a local made it truly special. Austin, guided us to quieter, hidden spots where we could enjoy the beauty of the cherry blossoms away from the crowds. It gave us a whole new appreciation for this amazing city.
April 2025
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I loved Austen. He showed us around the market in Kyoto and was so open to what we wanted to see and taste. He was full of suggestions and information about the good and history
April 2025
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I had an incredible time on the Kyoto tour with Austen! From start to finish, it felt like I was walking around with a local friend who genuinely cares about showing you the best of Kyoto. Austen excelled at sharing the rich history of the city and the areas we visited, making everything come alive in a way that felt personal and engaging. He took us off the beaten path, allowing us to escape the crowds and experience Kyoto in a unique and more intimate way. The food snack spots he picked were fantastic. What I appreciated most was that Austen went at our pace, ensuring the tour was comfortable and enjoyable for everyone. I highly recommend this tour to anyone looking to explore Kyoto in a meaningful way!
April 2025