I’ve lived in Kyoto for 23 years
I speak English, Japanese
I am a Photographer
I grew up in Tendo City, Yamagata Prefecture, and studied abroad in Seattle, USA after graduating from high school. I learned English while experiencing the Seattle music scene in the mid-'90s. I discovered black and white photography at Evergreen College in Washington State, and have continued my artistic activities since returning to Japan. This is my 18th year living in Kyoto. I also had a base in Beijing, China, and traveled back and forth for several years. I have about 4.5 years of experience as a manager in a cafe bar attached to a guesthouse with many foreign guests in Kyoto, and about 2 years of experience as a local attendant and long-time guide around the local Yamagata area. I can guide you through a wide range of activities from photography art, local music, Japanese culture, food, and drink.
Toga was a great guide and took us to beautiful temples in Kyoto we may not have found on our own. We loved our private tour of the city and Toga gave us recommendations on where to go and what food to try too.
read full reviewOctober 2024
We would have loved to extend our experience with Toga but his afternoon was already booked. He gave us great suggestions to see on our own.
read full reviewOctober 2024
He was super flexible with us as a group and was happy to adjust on the fly as we changed our schedule due to traveling with a toddler and baby. He also went out of his way to show us delicious local treats and walk us to our final destination.
read full reviewOctober 2024
Toga is excellent! Adapted to our pace and feedback and really customized the tour to our liking. Super friendly, thorough and made the experience very enjoyable, memorable and worthwhile.
read full reviewOctober 2024