Noko

Guide Experience

10 years or more

Area

Kyoto,Osaka,Nara

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?

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.

Hank

Guide Experience

5 years or more

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN01456
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager

Expertise

Sake,FOOD,Japanese History,Traditional Culture,Shopping

Hello! My name is Hiroshi Fujii, a tour guide in English since 2020. Please call me Hank. I got this nickname in United State. I have been five years in Chicago, near O’Hare Airport. When I was school days, I traveled one year Mexico and South America with backpacking. I love travel. After graduation, I joined machine parts company that I wanted to work at foreign countries. Fortunately, I have been 11 years in Germany, 5 years in USA, and 3 years in Brazil as a business. I had a very warm communication with local people and wonderful experience during my stays in foreign countries. Therefore, I came to want to be a tour guide, so that I would like to assist you to have an unforgettable experience of Japanese culture and interaction with local people during your stays in Japan. I love my job guiding and to interact with you. As a hobby, I love running. I run every weekend and marathon twice a year. I was born and raised in Nara in the vicinity of Kyoto and Osaka. It is famous for great Buddha and lots of deer. I have two sons; my elder son was born in Germany, and he is just married last year. Now my wife and I live in our hometown Nara. During our tour, I would like to be a representative of Japanese people for you. You can ask me anything related Japanese culture and life. I can explain you using my own history and experience. If you have a special interest, please let me know. I am confident that you will have a unforgettable experience with me as your guide. I am looking forward to seeing you soon in Japan!

Uiko

Guide Experience

Less than 5 years

Area

Hiroshima,The Seto Inland Sea

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN00435

Expertise

Japanese Garden,World Heritage,Architecture,Japanese History,Art Crafts

Hello! I'm Uiko. I was born in the east part of Hiroshima Prefecture and raised in Hiroshima City which is a symbol of peace and Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture which is famous for haiku poetry and one of the oldest hot springs in Japan. The Shimanami Road bridges these two prefectures between Onomichi and Imabari connecting small islands in the Seto Inland Sea. I have almost four decades of teaching experience at middle school in Hiroshima. Younger generations across Japan have been enthusiastic about building peace. They tour Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, listen to testimonies of A-Bomb survivors or their family members before writing their report. So do Hiroshima kids. My former students visited Nagasaki as well. They chose their topic in advance, explored Nagasaki and took a HIBAKUSHA's lecture during their stay, and then gave a speech or did a poster session, Through all activities both in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, students faced their inner self and recognized their mission- "Contribution to a Better World." Their spiritual growth brought me profound joy and encouraged my introspection, "What's my mission?"- "The same!" That inspiration led me to be your guide. I am so grateful to all my students. I love music and have been practicing the piano. My favorite composer is Johann Sebastian Bach. At the Cenotaph in the Park, I sometimes hear Bach's AIR inside my head. Some can hear John's IMAGINE. School kid's CHORUS. Summer CICADAS. Or SILENCE - the most solemn one. Here in Hiroshima, I believe your original music can resonate with the world. Through touring Hiroshima's two UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites, I would like to share Miyajima's natural beauty and Hiroshima's sincere hope for world peace with you. Adding to them, Hiroshima Prefecture has a number of hidden gems all over the place. I wish I could guide you to such marvelous areas someday. I am looking forward to seeing you!

Makiko

Guide Experience

5 years or more

Area

Kanazawa,Kyoto

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!

Hiroshi

Guide Experience

5 years or more

Area

Kyoto,Nara

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN00118
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager

Expertise

FOOD,ART,Shopping,Art Crafts

Hi welcome to Japan! A lot of wonderful experiences would be waiting for you which would remain deep in your heart. I am Hiroshi Kawagoe, a tour guide in English certified by Japanese government. Please call me Hiroshi. I am passionate to introduce my country by considering your own interests and tastes. So I am committed to your enhancing unique and excellent memories in Japan. I hope it doesn’t sound arrogant, but I am always flexible and resourceful to meet your demand. Your requests on the site would be greatly appreciated, My pleasure as a tour guide is contribution to your making unforgettable memories in Japan and sharing them with you which would remain deep in our hearts. I was born and brought up in Nagoya city which is well known as an industrial city, Toyota automobile is headquartered in this area. Now I am living in the vicinity of Nagoya city. When it comes to Nagoya, many people would be reminded of Nagoya castle. Three big men, famous samurai rulers across Japan in samurai era, all come from this area. Besides appreciation of authentic samurai remnants, you can find various kinds of attractive spots in this area. I am willing to show you around some off the beaten spots which are not well known among travelers, commoners. As for Kyoto, I had been living in Kyoto for five years and now am enjoying showing many guests around Kyoto, so I have much knowledge about the old capital, where old traditions still remain and you can find authentic traditional, sophisticated settings so unique and attractive! You are my guest, so you are special, I am ready to serve you with bringing something special for you. Very excited at serving you as a tour-guide for your having a wonderful time during your tour and also in your recollections. Always waiting for you!! Thank you!!

Yuki Nozaki

Guide Experience

10 years or more

Area

Kanazawa

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN00031
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager

Expertise

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

Hello, I’m Yuki. I live in Kanazawa. I was born and raised in Kanazawa. Kanazawa is a city full of seasonal charm, surrounded by the blessing of the sea and mountains, and a fusion of the new and the old, such as traditional crafts and contemporary art, multi-course meals and creative cuisine. As a castle town, Kanazawa is also an indispensable place to talk about samurai culture and history in Japan. I love history of my country. I love the crafts and the artisans who make them. It is my mission as a guide to introduce you to the history that still lives in this city, the crafts that have become art, and the aspirations of the craftsmen who create them. And of course, I love to eat! Kanazawa is a city of food! I will introduce you to a lot of delicious foods. My greatest strength is flexibility. When traveling, things often don’t go as planned for various reasons. But no matter the situation, I am here to help you make your journey the best it can be. Japan is a country of respect, courtesy, honesty and harmony. I would like to share these wonderful spirits with you.

Ellie

Guide Experience

5 years or more

Area

Okayama,The Seto Inland Sea,Kagawa

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN00124

I'm a licensed tour guide with expertise in English. I take joy in not only sharing Japan's history and culture with my guests but also in exchanging stories about my family and hearing about their own experiences. Creating moments where visitors to Japan can smile and have a great time is what I strive for as a guide. I am particularly interested in art and architecture. I also enjoy sharing information with my guests about local shrines that are not heavily touristic but cherished by locals and beloved dining spots that locals frequent. I look forward to sharing these hidden gems and enriching your visit to Japan.

ToshiGG

Guide Experience

5 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!

Kay Kondo

Guide Experience

10 years or more

Area

Hiroshima,The 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

Emi

Guide Experience

10 years or more

Area

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

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN00629
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager

Expertise

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

Hello, I am Emi Matsuda, a professional interpreter and tour guide with 6 years of experience. I am also working as a secretary in Osaka University with over 20 years of experience, which has honed my ability to offer flexible and elegant attention to clients. I have a license of museum curation, which extends my knowledge and expertise in the arts and culture field. Based in the fashion city of Kobe, I feel privileged to share Japan's rich cultural destinations with travelers from around the globe. Having lived in this beautiful country for years, I have developed a deep passion for the country's rich heritage and customs, making every tour experience I offer more insightful and meaningful. As a professional tour guide and interpreter, flexibility and adaptability are vital aspects of my job. I've learned to anticipate and respond quickly to different issues that may arise during tours, ensuring that my clients enjoy a worry-free experience. I take pride in creating unforgettable experiences for my clients, each tailored to their preferences and interests. In Japan, we have many beautiful destinations, from the traditional temples and palaces to breathtaking gardens and festivals. I'm passionate about showcasing all the hidden gems of my country, and my extensive planning and research reflect this. Moreover, I enjoy creating customized tours, combining culture and leisure outings, giving clients the opportunity to witness Japan's breathtaking sites and experiences. In conclusion, I look forward to welcoming you to Japan and curating an unforgettable tour that showcases the country's history, culture, and beauty. I strive to create unique memories for my clients, and I am confident that you will have a wonderful experience with me as your guide.

Michi

Guide Experience

5 years or more

Area

Hiroshima,Okayama,The Seto Inland Sea

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN00344
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager
• TOEIC 900 or above

Expertise

World Heritage,FOOD,Japanese History,Traditional Culture

Hi. I'm Michi, a National Licensed tour guide in English. I would like to introduce many faces and charms of Japan and make your stay in Japan more fascinating and satisfying. I was born and raised in Hiroshima. My first English tour was as a volunteer guide for visitors to my school when I was a junior high school student. It gave me a great opportunity to study about the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima. I spent all my life in Hiroshima except 6 years; 1 year in the UK when I was a student and 5 years working in Singapore and Malaysia. During this period I have enjoyed meeting and talking with people from different cultural backgrounds. These experiences encouraged me to be a licensed tour guide. I am also an official 'A-bomb legacy successor' designated by the City of Hiroshima, a memory keeper of the A-bomb survivors. I would like to introduce you to the a-bomb legacies that are still existing in the city and the stories under the mushroom cloud. I also would like to share time with you on a historic island, Miyajima. There is one of the most famous Shinto shrines, the Itsukushima Shrine. There we can share an enjoyable time by exploring a sacred atmosphere, tradition, nature, food, etc. Let me support your stay in Japan and I look forward to showing you the best of Japan! Hope to see you soon! With lots of love, Michi

Hiromi

Guide Experience

5 years or more

Area

Tokyo

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN05978
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager
• TOEIC 900 or above

Expertise

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

I currently live near the Sumida River in Chuo Ward, Tokyo. I have lived in the United States for 10 years and in China for 2 years due to my husband's work. In particular, I obtained a Teaching English as a Second Language certificate from UCI Extension in the United States. I aim to be a relaxed and fun guide. I would like to introduce a variety of experiences, such as traditional and modern, high places and waterside, lively places and quiet places. As for food, I am very careful about food safety because my mother has a wheat allergy. I also love introducing delicious food. I would be happy if my guests could fully enjoy their visit to Japan.

Kay Hagino

Guide Experience

20 years or more

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN00045
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager
• Eiken Test in Practical English Proficiency Grade 1 (CFER C1 equivalent)
• TOEIC 900 or above

Expertise

Castle,Japanese Garden,FOOD,ART,Japanese History,Traditional Culture,Art Crafts

Hello! This is Kay! I have been guiding my guests around Kanazawa and its neighborhood since 2014. Let me tell you how I started. One day, I met a man who said, “Kay, it seems you really like your hometown because you are so passionate when you talk about it. Since you speak good English, why don’t you guide around people? I am sure they are going to enjoy it, and so will you.” I got hooked at the suggestion of this man, now my husband, and he was right. It brings me such joy to see my guests beam at those Aha moments when they connect the dots. So why don’t you extend your travel plan to include Kanazawa, a town full of history, art, and culture—where you will enjoy connecting these dots with its neighborhoods? And when you do so, please let me assist you in enjoying the time to its fullest!

KeiKay

Guide Experience

10 years or more

Area

Kyoto,Osaka,Nara,Kobe

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

Miyu

Guide Experience

10 years or more

Area

Hiroshima,The Seto Inland Sea

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN00262
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager
• Eiken Test in Practical English Proficiency Grade 1 (CFER C1 equivalent)
• TOEIC 900 or above

Expertise

World Heritage,Japanese History

My name is Miyu. I am a guide born and raised in Hiroshima. I am honored to share the preciousness of peace with all of you coming to Hiroshima. I worked for the Hiroshima Prefectural Government as a public servant for nearly 40 years and was involved in implementing supporting programs for A-bomb survivors for 12 years before retiring. During that time, I heard various stories directly from A-bomb survivors. I have also deepened my knowledge of the effects of radiation on human health and have been involved in activities to contribute to medical care for radiation-exposed people around the world. I feel privileged to guide you to the A-bomb Dome, Peace Park, and Peace Memorial Museum and share my experiences. Let's also enjoy a trip to Miyajima, the Island of God. You will be refreshed by the scenic beauty of the deep green of the ancient forest, the blue of the Seto Inland Sea, and the vermilion of the Otorii gate. As for Japanese culture, I sometimes demonstrate tea ceremony as an attraction at international conferences held in Hiroshima. I also have experience in calligraphy and the art of flower arrangement. My hobbies are skiing and playing the harp. Regarding spectator sports, I am a baseball fanatic and sometimes get into the baseball talk with my guests. I am serving as a medical interpreter occasionally. I look forward to welcoming you to the beautiful city of Hiroshima.

Masahiro

Guide Experience

5 years or more

Area

Hiroshima,Okayama

Languages

English,Italian

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN00436
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager
• TOEIC 900 or above

Expertise

World Heritage,FOOD,Japanese History

I am a certified professional guide with national qualifications in both English and Italian. I am also fluent in Spanish. My goal is to create a welcoming and enjoyable experience for every guest, always keeping their comfort and satisfaction in mind. At the same time, I prioritize safety to ensure a secure and worry-free journey. I pride myself on adapting quickly and effectively to unexpected situations, providing everyone a seamless and pleasant experience. I was born and raised in Hiroshima. I am the third generation of atomic bomb survivors, and I would like to help you learn about what happened here on August 6, 1945. I also would like you to feel how important peace is. At the same time, your smile and satisfaction are my pleasure. I will do my best to make your trip the best one. Hope to see you soon.

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.

Mick

Guide Experience

10 years or more

Area

Okayama

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.

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.