TK

Guide Experience

5 years or more

Area

Kanazawa,Kyoto,Osaka,Nara,Kobe,Himeji,Hiroshima,Shiga

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN00557

Expertise

Shrine/Temple,FOOD,Japanese History,Trains,Shopping

Hi there! My name is Tetsuya KAWABATA, a government certified interpreter and guide. I was born and raised in Shiga Prefecture, 8 miles or 14 km east of Kyoto. I spent seven years of high school and college in Kyoto, Japan. I worked for a company in Osaka for over 30 years before becoming an interpreter-guide. Additionally, I am well versed in the history and local information of Kobe, Nara, and Wakayama. The Kansai region, especially Kyoto, Nara, and Shiga, is the motherland of Japanese history; it has always been the center stage of Japanese history for over 2600 years. In addition, I can take you on tours that not only introduce you to Japan's ancient and traditional cultural treasures and wonderful experiences, but also give you a glimpse into the future. For the foodies among you, we offer plenty of choices, from the most exquisite gastronomic restaurants to casual eateries beloved by the locals. Come join me for a great trip!

Masa

Guide Experience

5 years or more

Area

Hiroshima

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN00415
• Certified Itinerary Control Manager

Hello everyone, My name is Masayo Komatsubara, a nationally licensed English tour guide in Osaka. I am honored to have won the Hospitality Award 2024 from the Japan Guides Awards, recognizing the best guide for exceptional hospitality. I was born and raised in a very rural area of Yamaguchi Prefecture, where McDonald's, convenience stores, and Starbucks were unheard of. In fact, I didn't know how to order a Big Mac until I was 18 years old. It wasn't until I entered university in the Kansai region that I was able to experience a more diverse lifestyle. At the time, I majored in Japanese Culture. Over the years, I've had the opportunity to live in various parts of Japan, including Hyogo, Nagoya,Saitama,Okayama, Hiroshima, and Osaka prefectures. Each region boasts unique cultural traditions, dialects, and specialties shaped by its history and geography. Japan is a country filled with fascinating charms, and I'm eager to share its rich mythology, which is deeply intertwined with our imperial family's history and culture. My university studies and personal experiences have provided me with a deep understanding of these aspects. Rest assured, I've since mastered the art of ordering a Big Mac at McDonald's. I look forward to meeting you on our tour. Sincerely, Masa

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!

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

'Itchy' ICHI

Guide Experience

10 years or more

Area

Kyoto,Osaka,Nara

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN00328
• Eiken Test in Practical English Proficiency Grade 1 (CFER C1 equivalent)
• TOEIC 900 or above

Expertise

Shrine/Temple,Sake,FOOD,Japanese History,Traditional Culture,Wine

I am Ichi, born and grew up in Osaka, the vibrant commercial center of western Japan. I have been working as a professional tour guide since 2015. I would like to show you around my energetic, friendly city Osaka, but I can also take you to Kyoto and Nara, two neighoring ancient capital cities of Japan. In my youth, I lived in USA, UK and South Korea and traveled to more than 40 countries around the world. I believe the greatest pleasure of traveling is meeting new people who have different ways of thinking and lifestyles. I also used to run my own restaurant, and I am very much into food and drinks. And I can be flexible to your needs of the day. I hope to become a bridge for you to undestand Japan and Japanese people. Furthermore, I hope to become your first friend in Japan.

Sato_san

Guide Experience

5 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!

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.

Tom Yoshida

Guide Experience

5 years or more

Area

Kanazawa,Kyoto,Osaka,Nara,Hiroshima,Shiga

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.

Yuko Smiley Hirai

Guide Experience

5 years or more

Area

Kyoto,Osaka,Nara,Kobe,Himeji

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : EN01045
• Eiken Test in Practical English Proficiency Grade 1 (CFER C1 equivalent)

Expertise

Castle,FOOD

I am an English-speaking tour guide based in Kansai area including Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kobe and Himeji. I was born in Kobe and raised in a small town near Kobe where I live now. I have worked for a TV station in Kyoto as a reporter. Therefore, I am familiar with lots of attractive spots loved by locals as well as well-known sightseeing spots in Kansai area. I especially love showing my guests around Japanese castles such as Nijo castle and Himeji castle, both of which are well-known UNESCO world heritage sites in Japan, Japanese Sake breweries, Japanese gardens, traditional temples, and shrines. Besides English, I am a fluent speaker of Indonesian since I used to study and work in Indonesia for three years. I love traveling around the world, too! I am flexible and love pleasing guests during the tour. Let's enjoy exploring cities in Japan like locals! I am looking forward to meeting you soon!

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!

Emi

Guide Experience

5 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

World Heritage,ART,Japanese History,Traditional Culture,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.

Rumiko, Sunshine

Guide Experience

10 years or more

Area

Kyoto,Osaka,Nara,Kobe,Himeji,Shiga

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!

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.

Yuki

Guide Experience

5 years or more

Area

Kanazawa,Kyoto,Osaka,Nara,Kobe,Himeji,Hiroshima

Languages

English

Qualifications

• National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter : E123456
• Eiken Test in Practical English Proficiency Grade 1 (CFER C1 equivalent)
• TOEIC 900 or above

Expertise

Sake,ART,Traditional Culture,Shopping

Hello! My name is Lee Yukiko. Please call me Yuki. I was born in Hiroshima Prefecture. I have been living in Hyogo prefecture (next to Osaka) more than thirty years. I am cheerful and friendly, and I really love meeting people. I had many guests like celebrities, politicians, CEOs, artists and so on. I am capable of guiding whoever you are. You would definately have a wonderful time if you picked me as a guide. I have a license of Japanese dancing and flower arrangement. I like classical ballet, Kimono, Japanese culture, theater going, like Kabuki. I like meeting new people and want to help you have a wonderful trip in Japan. I’m a Kodo (the way of incense) Master. Kodo is a traditional Japanese culture to appreciate the incense wood of more than 100 years old. It is quite authentic and esthetic culture that Japan can boast. Though, the number of people who enjoy this interesting culture is decreasing in Japan. I’d like to introduce this quite a unique culture as many people as possible. Why don't you try this unique and authentic Japanese culture? [Places to guide] I’m good at arranging a special trip according to your request. Please tell me your interests and favorites. I’ll arrange the best trip only for you. I mainly guide Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kobe, Himeji, Kanazawa, Naoshima. I'm looking forward to seeing you!