Hi, I’m Tess
Hi, I’m Tess
I’ve lived in Kyoto for 6 years
I speak English, Mandarin
I am a Tour Guide
Hi there! I'm Tess, a local host in the breathtaking city of Kyoto. I love to participate in all the activities and ceremonies that Kyoto has to offer, from tea ceremonies to exploring the city during the cherry blossom and autumn leaf seasons. As a tour guide at a traditional culture museum in Kyoto, I have an in-depth knowledge of all things cultural, historical, and traditional, from Maiko and Geisha to Samurai and Ninjas. And I can't wait to share that knowledge with you! I'm always on the lookout for hidden gems and Insta-worthy spots, and I love to explore all that Kyoto has to offer. I'm always eager to share stories and perspectives that you won't find on a regular tour, and I can't wait to show you why this city is so special to me! I'm looking forward to meeting you and showing you around stunning Kyoto!
My knowledge & interests
Food
Drinks
Nature / outdoors
History
Photography
Architecture
Culture & customs
Street food
Local cuisine
Desserts
Food markets
Unique & unusual foods
Street art
Parks
Gardens
Scenic routes
Wildlife
Hikes
Political history
Economic history
Social history
Architectural history
Religious history
Cityscape photography
Street photography
Classical architecture
Local beers
Artisanal tea
Street markets
Handicrafts & souvenirs
Traditional culture
Popular culture
Religious customs
Lifestyle culture
Rituals & ceremonial customs
Alternative or underground culture
Japanese sake
Pubs / bars, sake
Japanese crafts
Samurai, Ninja, maiko, geisha, tea ceremony
People, Instagrammable
Ancient, Japan castle, shrine, temple
My reviews
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Tour was personal and tailored to our needs. As it was it very hot day, our tour guide offered cooler alternatives which really helped us with the young children in our group.
July 2024
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It was a very hot day so we changed our tour to find cooler alternatives which Tess was great at arranging
July 2024
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We had such an amazing day touring Kyoto with Tess! We booked the 8 hour walking tour starting at 8AM and Tess did a great job curating our experience to exactly what we were looking for. We went to the Fushimi Inari shrine, Yasaka Pagoda, Kiyomizu-dera temple, Golden Pavillion, the Arashiyama bamboo grove, and more. She did a great job managing our time and getting us from place to place in a seamless manner. She was also very attentive to our needs, always asking if we need water or the bathroom. She was a great photographer and knew all the good photo spots as well. Additionally she was very informed of the history. Tess did a great job giving us more recommendations for restaurants and places to go for the rest of our trip. She was so friendly and also hilarious. If you are lucky enough to be paired with her, you will most certainly have a perfect experience!
October 2023
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Tess was knowledgeable, engaging and professional. She also met me at my hotel which I really appreciated.
September 2023