Wise Choice – Private Tours with Government-Certified Guides

Yosshi

Guide Experience

5 years or more

Area

Tokyo

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN04316
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager

Expertise

Shrine/Temple,Castle,Japanese Garden,World Heritage,ART,Japanese History,Traditional Culture,Pottery

My career as a tour guide began as a volunteer guide at the Edo Tokyo Museum located next to the Sumo Stadium. The experience at the museum gave me a good opportunity to learn deeply about Japan's history and culture. In addition, these experiences ultimately taught me the joy of guiding. I am passionate about sharing my experience and knowledge gained through my work with my guests. MY interest is not only the history but also Japan's traditional crafts like pottery,lacquer wear,wooden carvings, Bonsai, the way of tea, contemporary art, Buddha statues and so on.

Noko

Guide Experience

10 years or more

Area

Kyoto,Osaka,Nara,Kobe,Hiroshima,Shiga,Seto Inland Sea

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN00314
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager
• Eiken Test in Practical English Proficiency Grade 1 (CFER C1 equivalent)
• TOEIC 900 or above

Expertise

Japanese Garden,ART,Traditional Culture,Art Crafts

Hi, my name is Noriko, but you can call me Noko. As a native of Kyoto, I have always been close to events, landscapes, and everyday scenery of Kyoto. I spent a year in a small town in Arkansas, U.S.A. as an exchange student. Living there with no one from a similar background gave me a flexible perspective from a young age. Since then, I have been interested in how people communicate with each other from different cultural backgrounds. I joined an international enterprise and learned to work with people from different countries. I became a National Guide/Interpreter in 2015 to share my love for Japanese art, crafts, food, and nature with my guests. After completing the courses for the City of Kyoto Visitor's Host, I came to believe that it is my mission to re-discover the hidden gems of Kyoto and shed light on them. Why not find out a surprise not written in your guidebook with me?

Mika

Guide Experience

Less than 5 years

Area

Kyoto,Osaka,Kobe

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN01687
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager
• TOEIC 900 or above

Expertise

Shrine/Temple,Japanese History,Pottery,Art Crafts

Hello, everyone. I’m Mika, your guide in Japan, here to help you create unique travel experiences. Although I officially became a licensed guide during the pandemic, my guiding experience began much earlier. Since childhood, my family has frequently hosted international visitors, including friends, exchange students, Guides and Scouts, and travelers from various backgrounds. I have been guiding them in Kyoto, Osaka, Tokyo, Nara, Kobe, and the surrounding areas for many years. This has always been a great joy to meet guests from all around the world and show them Japanese culture. After studying Museum Studies at the University of Leicester in the UK, I worked at the National Museum of Nature and Science Tokyo. I also have experience working with an embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. I have always loved museums. During my studies in the UK, I had the opportunity to intern at the British Museum. As a guide, I view all of Japan as a "living museum" and take great joy in introducing its wonders to my guests. Guiding and scouting have also been significant parts of my life. I have been involved with the Girl Scouts of Japan and was a Girl Guide in both New Zealand and the UK while studying there. Additionally, I served as a resident volunteer at Pax Lodge, one of the WAGGGS World Centres in London. I look forward to meeting you and sharing an unforgettable experience in Japan.

Tomoe

Guide Experience

Less than 5 years

Area

Osaka,Nara

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN01923

Expertise

Shrine/Temple,Japanese Garden,World Heritage,FOOD,Japanese History,Traditional Culture,Shopping

Hi,everyone. I’m Tomoe. I was born and raised in Osaka, so I’m a genuine Osaka native and the mother of three boys.I have a deep passion for my hometown, Osaka. Tokyo is a flagship city of Japan, but Tokyo is not everything that Japan has to offer. Osaka is known for having the friendliest and the funniest people in Japan. We Osakans often strike up conversations with strangers. Humor is a big part of our culture and we love to joke around making people feel approachable and lively. Don’t you think that , as a true Osaka native, I’m the perfect fit to be your guide? In the Kansai region, Osaka, Kyoto and Nara have so many fascinating places to visit. I’d love to show you not only iconic tourist attractions but also the places that only locals know. I love meeting people from various backgrounds. I always enjoy entertaining people. I’m thrilled to help make your trip an unforgettable experience. I’m looking forward to meeting you soon.

Kay Kondo

Guide Experience

10 years or more

Area

Hiroshima,Seto Inland Sea

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN00282
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager
• Eiken Test in Practical English Proficiency Grade 1 (CFER C1 equivalent)

Expertise

Shrine/Temple,World Heritage,FOOD,ART,Japanese History,Traditional Culture,Pop Culture,Shopping

I hope this message finds you well and full of excitement for your upcoming journey to Hiroshima! My name is Kay, and I am thrilled to be your designated tour guide for this adventure. As a guide deeply passionate about the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of this area, I am eager to share these experiences with you. With nearly 10 years of experience as a tour guide, I’ve had the pleasure of welcoming guests from all over the world, each bringing their own unique perspectives and interests. Whether this is your first-time visiting Hiroshima or you’re returning to explore it more deeply, my goal is to provide you with an enriching and memorable experience. Our itinerary will take us through some of the most iconic landmarks, as well as a few hidden gems that only locals know about. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient architecture, indulging in the local cuisine, or learning about the fascinating history that has shaped this place, I am here to tailor the tour to your interests. My aim is to not only guide you but also to connect you with the heart and soul of Hiroshima. Before we begin our tour, feel free to share with me any specific interests or special requests you might have. Whether it’s a particular site you’re eager to visit, a type of cuisine you’re curious to try, or even a story you’ve heard about this place that you’d like to explore further, your input will help me craft an experience that is uniquely suited to you. I look forward to meeting you in person and sharing in the discovery of all that this incredible place has to offer. If you have any questions before your arrival, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Until then, I wish you safe travels and eagerly await the opportunity to guide you on what promises to be an unforgettable journey. Warm regards, Kay

Nori

Guide Experience

10 years or more

Area

Kyoto,Osaka,Nara

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN01710
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager
• Eiken Test in Practical English Proficiency Grade 1 (CFER C1 equivalent)

Expertise

Shrine/Temple,Japanese Garden,Japanese History

I was born in Kyoto. When I was a child, I lived in Tokyo for eight years. After that I returned to Kyoto. Many visitors are interested in Kyoto and I know the city of Kyoto well. I know off-the-beaten-truck places as well as must-see-spots. I visited New Zealand for three weeks and during my time there I had an opportunity to assist a teacher to educate her students in Japanese culture such as the Japanese tea ceremony, how to wear a yukata which is a cotton kimono and teaching calligraphy. The students' eyes were shining with excitement as they became involved in Japanese culture. It made me feel that I needed to study Japan and its culture more deeply. This experience led me to become a tour guide. I not only enjoy being a tour guide but also like to interact with people. I feel happy when I see visitors enjoying various aspects of Japan and Japanese life. I am interested in history, Buddhism, Shintoism, gardens. I also enjoy reading books, participating in yoga, practicing meditation. and a variety of other subjects. If I can help you to enjoy Japan more, it will be my great pleasure.

Fumi

Guide Experience

10 years or more

Area

Kyoto,Nara,Himeji,Hiroshima,Shiga

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN00160
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager
• Eiken Test in Practical English Proficiency Grade 1 (CFER C1 equivalent)
• TOEIC 900 or above

Expertise

Shrine/Temple,Japanese Garden,Sake,FOOD,Traditional Culture,Shopping,Art Crafts

Hello, I am Fumi. I live in Kyoto and try to provide comfortable tours tailored to the travel style of clients. I do more than 200 tours annually in Western Japan. I have a passion for travel, both domestically and internationally. As a child, I had numerous opportunities to travel across various parts of Japan with family and my father's business partners. This allowed me to discover the joy of travelling to unfamiliar places, unknown local food, and chance encounters with new people. I am also interested in ancient Japanese culture. Influenced by my parents and aunt, who were Noh performers, I became interested in Noh and other traditional performing arts. In school, I had a keen interest in cross-cultural communication and felt the need to learn English. I passed English Proficiency Test Grade 1 with a high score and was invited to an award ceremony for outstanding achievement. Before becoming a guide, I worked as a teacher at a language school and as a training officer, but a friend working in the tourism industry invited me to work at international events for overseas guests, saying, 'you are suited to work in travel. I eventually qualified as a chief itinerary manager in 2003. Inspired by my aunt, who was an interpreter-guide in both English and French, I became a licensed interpreter-guide in 2014, making my professional debut a month later. Since 2015, I have been working primarily on luxury tours. Hobbies: exploring local cuisine, going to the gym, watching stage performances, and strolling through the city.

Kanako

Guide Experience

5 years or more

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN00070
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager
• Eiken Test in Practical English Proficiency Grade 1 (CFER C1 equivalent)
• TOEIC 900 or above

Expertise

Japanese Garden,World Heritage,Sake,FOOD,Japanese History,Traditional Culture,Pottery,Shopping

Hello! I’m Kanako, a government-licensed guide interpreter based in Kagoshima. I have spent most of my life here, except for one year in Germany and four years in Tokyo. I have a deep passion for nature, history, and local culture, and I especially enjoy exploring places off the beaten path and uncovering stories rarely found in guidebooks. With a background in school teaching, I present Kagoshima’s heritage in a clear and engaging way. I am also a certified Chiran Tea Ambassador. Chiran, in Kagoshima, is one of Japan’s leading tea-producing regions—something that may surprise many visitors. Through my guiding and tea expertise, I invite you to discover the history, nature, and everyday life of this unique region.

ToshiGG

Guide Experience

10 years or more

Area

Kyoto,Osaka,Nara,Kobe,Himeji,Hiroshima

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN00548
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager
• TOEIC 900 or above

Expertise

Shrine/Temple,FOOD,Japanese History,Shopping

Hello everyone. I'm Toshiaki Ohbayashi, a cheerful and talkative tour guide. I have been guiding small groups around Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Himeji, Hiroshima, and other places in Japan since 2018, which has exceeded 500 days. My top priority as a guide is to be able to offer many options besides temples or shrines. such as Samurai and Ninja experiences. I'm also familiar with lunch restaurants and sweets shops. My nickname is GG, which means grandfather, as I have two grandchildren. I love being a GG, but I also love guiding. I'm looking forward to meeting you and your party soon. Let's have an amazing time with me!

Tom Yoshida

Guide Experience

5 years or more

Area

Kanazawa,Kyoto,Osaka,Nara,Himeji,Hiroshima,Shiga,Okayama,Seto Inland Sea

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN01586
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager

Expertise

Shrine/Temple,Japanese Garden,Sake,FOOD,Japanese History,Traditional Culture,Trains

Hi there, I am Tom Yoshida, the guide that a Five-star hotel in Kyoto requests as a priority, National Certified Tour Guide, Certified Domestic Travel Services Manager and Certified “Tea Sommelier” by Kyoto Prefecture. I have experience guiding a variety of patterns, from individual travelers to groups, from day trips to 3 weeks in duration, and from Tokyo to Hiroshima in site. For private guiding in Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara, I have requests from several hotel concierges as well as travel agencies. In addition, I accommodate more than just sightseeing. For example, model shoots for clothing brands and hiking tours. I live in Kyoto for 30 years, so I can guide travelers to every corner of the city. I also lived in Osaka for 20 years. I became a businessman and stayed in the U.S. for five years and in Germany for a half year. Because, I traveled backpacking through Europe when I was a student. It was a sightseeing trip and I was not happy with just looking from the outside. After that, I wanted to get into Western society. Now I would like to push you to enter Japanese culture. For example, in Kyoto, where I live, there are many historical Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. I would like to make Buddhism and Shintoism easier to understand rather than simply show them to you. My sports are cycling, hiking, skiing and marathon running. My other hobbies are trains and the visiting of ramen restaurants. After finishing my bachelor's degree in science and engineering, I used to work as a designer and marketer for a manufacturing equipment manufacturer, so I am also very happy to do industrial tours.

Remi

Guide Experience

10 years or more

Area

Hiroshima

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN00217
• Eiken Test in Practical English Proficiency Grade 1 (CFER C1 equivalent)
• TOEIC 900 or above

Expertise

Shrine/Temple,World Heritage,Traditional Culture

Welcome to Japan! I feel very fortunate & grateful to be able to meet wonderful people from all over the world. I'd be happy to do anything for you to make special & unforgettable memories in Japan! I was born and raised in Hiroshima. I have learned a lot about the history of Hiroshima & met many survivors. It would be wonderful if I could share my experiences with you. Also, I live just 10 minutes away from the island of Miyajima. We love Miyajima Island and often visit there to attend festivals and rituals. There are so many beautiful places on the island, including great 'locals’ favorites'! It's my greatest pleasure to show you around my hometown. Let me show you our favorite restaurants as well! I am flexible. I love meeting people. I enjoy cooking, especially Okonomiyaki (Hiroshima's specialty)! I used to be a schoolteacher & mother of two children. I got the National Tour Guide & Interpreter license in 2010. Since then, I have experienced many tours including FITs from varieties of countries, special needs individuals, Cruise ship offshore tours or School Trips. It’s been SO wonderful, and they are all unforgettable memories! I'm really looking forward to meeting you!! Arigatou gozaimasu

Sato_san

Guide Experience

10 years or more

Area

Kyoto,Osaka,Nara

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN00626
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager
• TOEIC 900 or above

Expertise

Shrine/Temple,Sake,FOOD,Japanese History

Hello! I am a tour guide Sato_san. Sato is my last name and sugar is called "sato" in Japanese, so I am your sweet guide! I was born in Hong Kong and raised in Nara, Japan. After living in Japan and the US, I started working as a travel guide in 2016. As a nationally certified English Interpreter Guide and Nara prefecture-certified guide, I will guide you to highlights and little known spots in Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka. Would you like to know Japanese history and culture, appreciate art, meet craftsman, eat local dishes, taste sake, walk in nature, feel local life, or look for a place to heal? Please tell me your wishes. I will be happy to arrange an itinerary to make your day even more special and memorable!

Makiko

Guide Experience

10 years or more

Area

Kanazawa,Kyoto,Osaka,Nara,Himeji,Hiroshima,Shiga,Okayama,Seto Inland Sea

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN00632
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager
• TOEIC 900 or above

Expertise

Shrine/Temple,Traditional Culture,Pop Culture,Art Crafts

I've been introducing wide variety of Japanese culture and beautiful scenery to guests as a professional guide since 2016. I have lived in Kyoto, Osaka, Tokyo, and the US and traveled many different countries which deepen my curiosity about my own culture. Beside a tour guide, I work in an entertainment industry as an interpreter, coordinator, and production assistant for over 20 years. I’ve had opportunities working with many wonderful people including musicians, celebrities, and other professionals having an incredible talent, and I believe those unique experience made who I am now. I am a very cheerful person and strive to possess a profound knowledge of Japanese culture, especially about Kyoto, an ancient capital over 1000 years until 150 years ago. I love nature and appreciate traditional culture, so taking you to tranquil gardens and traditional craft studios, and experiencing Japanese culture (tea ceremony, pottery, cooking class, zen meditation and more!) are just some of activities that are available. I am a foodie and would be happy to take you a tour for yummy street food in my hometown, Osaka. I will try my best to make your trip in Japan memorable and unique and you can explore not only major sightseeing spots, but also local hidden gems and specialty shops, restaurants, or sake breweries. Having a local guide who will answer about Japanese culture and Japanese spirits without language problems will save your precious time and make your trip that much more special while you are in Japan. Looking forward to seeing you in Japan!

H

Guide Experience

Less than 5 years

Area

Kanazawa,Kyoto,Osaka,Nara,Himeji,Hiroshima,Okayama,Seto Inland Sea

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN01811
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager
• Eiken Test in Practical English Proficiency Grade 1 (CFER C1 equivalent)
• TOEIC 900 or above

Expertise

Shrine/Temple,Castle,Japanese Garden,Architecture,Japanese History,Traditional Culture

Hello Everyone, My first name is Eiichi, but please just call me H for its simple and easy pronunciation. I was born and raised in Osaka, but during my business career I spent about 7 years in Chicago, and 5 years near Geneva, Switzerland.　While I was living in the US, I earned an MBA degree from Northern Illinois University. Since Geneva is a French native region, I studied French during that time and have a Level Pre-2 French Proficiency Test. The Kansai region where I live, centered around Nara, Kyoto, and Osaka, has a long and rich history. These regions have numerous historical monuments, reflecting the diverse historical backgrounds, architectural styles, and people’s lifestyles of the time. Each of these monuments has its own story, and I will accomodate with you in making your stay an unforgettable one, by sharing those stories, rather than simply viewing the buildings and scenery. I also spent four years as a student in Kanazawa, a wonderful city rich in history and traditional craftsmanship. I am more than happy to showing you around Kanazawa area as well. I always love traveling, and during my student days I toured all over the country with my motorcycle, visiting various famous tourist spots in Japan from Hokkaido to Kyusyu. I also visited various tourist spots in the United States and Europe with my family while stationed there. My favorites also include running and marathon races. So far, I completed 8 full marathons (42.195 Km) and the half marathons more than 20 times. Accordingly, I am also looking forward to enjoy walking during the tour with you.

Kaz

Guide Experience

Less than 5 years

Area

Tokyo

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN06414
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager

Expertise

Shrine/Temple,Japanese Garden,World Heritage,Architecture,ART,Japanese History,Traditional Culture,Trains,Art Crafts

Have you ever had such an experience when you hired a guide?　"Tell me more why that happen?" , "Show me how it connected to our current life?" I’m passionate about fulfilling your desire to know it more. Japan has nurtured its culture in an extremely unique environment that is rarely seen in the world. My tour is not only introduction of culture / history ,but also sharing “how do we live in what kind of way of thinking”. In addition to my expertise for Art, Beauty and Geoscience, my experience of R&D /marketing of skincare brand in Japanese cosmetic company and deep understanding the relationship between our way of living and climate as certified meteorologists will surely stimulate your intellectual curiosity. In recent 2 years, I have shared time with over 1,300 guests/300 groups. Examples of reviews are below. *This tour changed my life and made memories. I will remember forever (Honeymooner) *We loved seeing all the highlights, but what really made it special was you — your knowledge, kindness, and the way you shared everything with us. You made the experience easy, fun, and memorable, and we’re so grateful for all the time and care you gave us. Thanks again for everything! ( 3-generations family) *The personalized nature of the tour made it one of memorable experiences of my life (30’s couple) *Just totally outstanding. I have traveled the world for last 40 years and KAZ ranks number one and there is no way anyone can surpass him, just the best(70’s couple) *The attention and knowledge was unmatched. Book a tour by name again no questions asked and definitely recommended him for tours of all sizes if you want in a depth and personal tour (family with infants, kids) I will customize your timeline depending on your request/preference! Let’s get started!

Eriko

Guide Experience

10 years or more

Area

Okayama,Seto Inland Sea,Kagawa

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN00100
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager
• Eiken Test in Practical English Proficiency Grade 1 (CFER C1 equivalent)
• TOEIC 900 or above

Expertise

Japanese Garden,Sake,FOOD,Traditional Culture,Textile,Pottery,Pop Culture,Shopping,Art Crafts

Hi! My name is Eriko. I live in Okayama and have enjoyed guiding tourists and doing interpreting jobs for guests from all over the world for about 20 years in total. I used to work as a registered nurse in the ward of cardiovascular disease at a general hospital. Then I stayed in U.S. to study and do an internship program for seven months. Now I am an interpreter guide and also a peach farmer working with my husband, especially in summer. My hometown Okayama is peaceful countryside called "Land of Sunshine" and "Fruit Kingdom" that produces high-quality fruits like white peaches and grapes. Okayama is not a big city, but I love to feel peaceful and comfortable being surrounded by nature, orchards, farms and traditional attractions like Okayama Castle, Japanese famous beautiful Korakuen Garden and Kurashiki Bikan Area. In addition to Okayama, I also guide tourists around neighboring area: popular Art Islands in the Seto Inland Sea; Naoshima and Teshima and historical World Heritage sites; Hiroshima and Miyajima. I am excited to guide you to fascinating destinations around Okayama as well as bring you to Japanese authentic local life! Let's explore and have fun in Japan with me! Eriko

KeiKay

Guide Experience

10 years or more

Area

Kyoto,Osaka,Nara,Kobe,Shiga,Seto Inland Sea

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN00249
• Eiken Test in Practical English Proficiency Grade 1 (CFER C1 equivalent)

Expertise

Traditional Culture,Pottery,Shopping

Hi, everyone. My name is Kaori Kuzuhara. Call me KK! I live in Nishinomiya city in the vicinity of Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Himeji which is called Kansai. I’m a national government licensed tourist guide 2014- and enjoying taking guests from overseas to the best places in Kansai. My specialty is the friendliness and has bread knowledge about religion, culture, and behind- the-scenes stories. Let’s have a quality experience with me and go like a local ,which is only possible with a guide who loves the area. I will show you hidden gems in Kansai. Let’s dive into the deep Japan with me together! Your local friend, KK

Yumi

Guide Experience

10 years or more

Area

Hiroshima

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN00238
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager
• Eiken Test in Practical English Proficiency Grade 1 (CFER C1 equivalent)

Expertise

Shrine/Temple,Japanese Garden,World Heritage,Architecture,FOOD,Japanese History,Traditional Culture,Shopping

I’m Yumi, born and raised up in Hiroshima, deep knowledge of the area around the city of Hiroshima in every corner including 2 big spots such as Peace Park and Miyajima (Miyajima Certification Gold). At Peace Park, I sincerely share my knowledge and help you think about peace and have a meaningful time. Half-day tours of Peace Park are available. On Miyajima, you are invited to unravel the history of the relationship between Buddhism and Shintoism in Japan and at the same time enjoy the mysterious atmosphere of the unique nature island, the Shrine and the Otorii Gate (Grand Gate) built over the sea. My greatest strength is my curiosity. Curiosity has led to a wealth of topics and a wide range of information gathering skills. I hope we can have a nice chat. I love to read, almost a print addict. Touring cafes with friends and looking for delicious food and watercolor painting are my hobby, I like the time I spend coloring and love the feeling of art.　 I feel that it is my mission to guide you who choose Hiroshima as your destination of choice. I look forward to meeting you. Area of expertise ･Knowledge about the history and culture ･Knowledgeable to Museums, artistic buildings in Hiroshima ･Supportive to look for good restaurants, delicious food or special things to buy Qualifications ･STEP 1st grade in English ･National Guide Certificate ･Itinerary control manager (Travel Service Supervisor) ･ICM(International Society of Clinical Medicine) Certified Medical Interpreter

Rumiko, Sunshine

（1）

Guide Experience

10 years or more

Area

Kanazawa,Kyoto,Osaka,Nara,Kobe,Himeji,Shiga,Okayama,Seto Inland Sea

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN00067
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager
• Eiken Test in Practical English Proficiency Grade 1 (CFER C1 equivalent)
• TOEIC 900 or above

Expertise

Shrine/Temple,Castle,Sake,FOOD,Japanese History,Traditional Culture,Shopping

Hello, I'm Sunshine! Growing up in a family deeply devoted to traditional Japanese cultures, such as classical dancing and Kabuki, I have been immersed in the rich heritage that defines this captivating land. Moreover, my professional background includes extensive training in high-end hospitality and presentation skills from diverse corporate environments, ranging from a publishing company to an advertising agency and an engineering firm. As a result, I've developed a unique blend of traditional charm and modern finesse. During our tour, I am thrilled to share with you the historical and traditional aspects of the cities we'll explore and the excitement of new cultures and cutting-edge technologies that define contemporary Japan. With a dash of theatrics, I may even step into the shoes of historical figures, offering you an intimate glimpse into their lives and stories. As we venture together, I will reveal hidden corners and historical gems that might otherwise go unnoticed, creating countless "Wow-moments" that will stay with you for a lifetime. It is my genuine desire to ensure you experience the true essence of Japan, immersing you in its past, present, and future. So, get ready to embark on a truly unforgettable adventure with me. I can't wait to meet all of you and make this journey genuinely extraordinary!

Mick

Guide Experience

10 years or more

Area

Okayama,Seto Inland Sea

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN00111
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager
• Eiken Test in Practical English Proficiency Grade 1 (CFER C1 equivalent)
• TOEIC 900 or above

Expertise

FOOD,ART,Shopping,Art Crafts

Hello, I'm Miyoko. I was born in Tamano city, Okayama prefecture, which is close to the Seto Inland Sea, a.k.a. Setouchi. Setouchi has over 3000 islands and its beauty has been cherished for a long time, and it also has been an important sea route from and to the Asian continent for culture, technology, goods and people for thousands of years. Nowadays, it is really popular and famous for its art islands, especially Naoshima. Kurashiki city, where I live now, has a shrine which dates back to 1700 years ago, and traditional merchants' streets. In Okayama city, I can show you around Korakuen garden, which is one of the best three Japanese gardens in Japan. I hope you will have a wonderful time in these places indulging in art, nature, culture, architecture and history.