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
Guide Experience
5 years or more
Area
Hiroshima,Okayama,The Seto Inland Sea
Languages
English
Qualifications
Expertise
World Heritage,FOOD,Japanese History,Traditional Culture
Embark on a one-day tour to explore the architectural marvels of Hiroshima. Begin your journey at the Peace Memorial Museum, designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect TANGE Kenzo, symbolizing resilience and hope. Next, visit TANIGUCHI Yoshio's innovative Naka Incineration Plant, a striking example of modern industrial design. On the way to your next destination by taxi, briefly stop at the Nishi Fire Station to capture photos of another Pritzker Prize-winning architect, YAMAMOTO Riken's futuristically designed building. Finally, marvel at BAN Shigeru's SIMOSE Art Museum, a testament to sustainable architecture and artistic expression. BAN is also a Pritzker Prize-winning architect. This tour showcases the architecture of TANIGUCHI Yoshio, a disciple of TANGE, along the peace axis created by TANGE. Conclude your journey by gazing at Miyajima from the SIMOSE Art Museum, reflecting on life, regeneration, and continuity themes. Accompanied by an expert guide, delve into the stories behind these remarkable structures and their creators, experiencing the fusion of history, innovation, and beauty in Hiroshima's architectural landscape.
Discover the picturesque charm of Onomichi on this one-day tour. Begin your journey at Senkoji PEAK Observatory, where you'll admire the scenic beauty of the Seto Inland Sea with its many islands. Next, visit the historic Senko-ji Temple, nestled on a hillside, offering serene surroundings and a glimpse into the region's spiritual heritage. The temple is known for its vibrant cherry blossoms in spring and stunning foliage in autumn. Explore hidden traditional houses along the slopes and find a beautiful pagoda. After lunch at your guide-recommended restaurant, visit Soraiken to see a beautifully preserved garden and a perfect reproduction of the tea ceremony house designed by the 16th-century legendary tea master Sen No Rikyu. Then, wander through the 1400-year-old Jyodo-ji Temple, featured in the OZU Yasujiro movie "Tokyo Monogatari." On the way to the seaside town, you will see a traditional inn that also appeared in the OZU movie. Finally, stroll the Teppan Pier and Seaside Art Museum with its murals. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, experience the beauty and culture of Onomichi at a leisurely pace.
Discover the picturesque charm of Onomichi on this one-day tour. Begin your journey at Senkoji PEAK Observatory, where you'll admire the scenic beauty of the Seto Inland Sea with its many islands. Next, visit the historic Senko-ji Temple, nestled on a hillside, offering serene surroundings and a glimpse into the region's spiritual heritage. The temple is known for its vibrant cherry blossoms in spring and stunning foliage in autumn. Explore hidden traditional houses along the slopes and find a beautiful pagoda. After lunch at your guide-recommended restaurant, wander through the 1400-year-old Jyodo-ji Temple, featured in the OZU Yasujiro movie "Tokyo Monogatari." On the way to the seaside town, you will see a traditional inn that also appeared in the OZU movie. Stroll through the seaside town, admiring the Teppan Pier and Seaside Art Museum with its murals. Finally, visit U2, a retro-modern waterfront complex that combines a hotel, café, and cycling hub, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the coastal scenery. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, experience the beauty and culture of Onomichi at a leisurely pace.
Miyajima's charm extends beyond the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, the friendly deer, and the bustling shops along the approach. Venture further to explore majestic temples and beautiful walking paths that branch off from the main streets. Discover the hidden gems of sacred Miyajima at a leisurely pace with a knowledgeable guide who knows the island inside and out. Begin your journey at the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, renowned for its floating torii gate. Next, find tranquility at the serene Daishoin Temple, a hidden gem of spiritual significance. Stroll through the picturesque Momijidani Park, where vibrant green or red maple leaves create a stunning backdrop. Finally, enjoy a leisurely walk along Machiya-dori Street or Omotesando Shopping Street with charming shops and local delicacies..
Discover the enchanting beauty of Miyajima Island on a half-day tour that promises to captivate your senses. Just a short car and ferry ride from Hiroshima, this small island is home to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, where a vermillion Torii gate seemingly floats on the tranquil waters. Begin your journey at this World Heritage Shrine , famous for its unique architecture that also appears to hover the sea during high tide. Stroll through the charming streets lined with traditional shops, savoring local delicacies like grilled oysters and Momiji Manju (maple leaf-shaped cakes). Be sure to see the friendly deer roaming freely, adding to the island’s charm. Whether exploring historical sites or soaking in nature’s beauty, Miyajima offers an unforgettable experience that will enchant you long after your visit.
Embark on a soul-stirring journey through Hiroshima, where history and tranquility converge in a harmonious blend. Our guided tour takes you on a profound exploration of the city's resilience and beauty, beginning with the hallowed grounds of Peace Memorial Park and Museum. Witness the eternal Flame of Peace and pay your respects at the Children's Peace Monument, a touching tribute to the innocent lives lost. Through insightful narration, you'll gain a deep understanding of Hiroshima's transformative journey from devastation to hope. The tour then seamlessly transitions to the exquisite Shukkei-en Garden, a hidden oasis in the heart of the city. Stroll through meticulously landscaped gardens, where every stone and tree tells a tale of Japanese aesthetics and harmony. This part of the tour provides a peaceful contrast to the earlier exploration of Hiroshima's tumultuous history, leaving you with a sense of balance and appreciation for the city's multifaceted character. This experience promises an intellectual journey and a soul-enriching encounter with Hiroshima's profound spirit.
Join our guided tour and immerse yourself in the captivating world of Inujima Island. This unforgettable experience encompasses visiting the Inujima Seirensho Art Museum, where you'll witness breathtaking contemporary art installations seamlessly blending with the island's industrial heritage. Explore the Art House Project, a collection of former residences transformed into unique art spaces, each showcasing thought-provoking works by renowned artists. As you stroll through the island's picturesque inland, be enchanted by its serene beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Let us guide you through this enchanting journey, where art, history, and nature intertwine harmoniously.
Our exceptional Gold Guide makes your journey unforgettable memories as you embark on a half-day adventure that unveils the rich heritage and natural beauty of Okayama. Begin your adventure at the majestic Okayama Castle, a symbol of resilience and architectural marvel. Explore its storied halls and climb to the top for panoramic views of the city. Then, immerse yourself in the enchanting Koraku-en Garden, one of Japan's Three Great Gardens, where meticulously manicured landscapes and tranquil ponds create a haven of serenity. Stroll along winding paths, admire vibrant flora, and find solace in the harmony of nature.
Our exceptional Gold Guide makes your journey unforgettable memories as you embark on a half-day adventure that unveils the rich heritage and natural beauty of Okayama. Begin your adventure at the majestic Okayama Castle, a symbol of resilience and architectural marvel. Explore its storied halls and climb to the top for panoramic views of the city. Then, immerse yourself in the enchanting Koraku-en Garden, one of Japan's Three Great Gardens, where meticulously manicured landscapes and tranquil ponds create a haven of serenity. Stroll along winding paths, admire vibrant flora, and find solace in the harmony of nature.
Embark on a captivating half-day tour with our Gold Guide from Okayama Station to Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter. As you step into the well-preserved quarter, prepare to be transported to the fascinating era of samurais. Feel the echoes of the past whisper through the air as you explore quaint shops and art galleries showcasing the rich heritage and craftsmanship of old Japan. Throughout this unforgettable experience, our Gold Guide will unlock the secrets of Kurashiki, revealing the stories that have shaped its timeless beauty. So come, let the Kurashiki half-day tour transport you to a world where enchantment awaits at every turn.
Embark on an extraordinary 1-day journey through Okayama, led by our exceptional Gold Guide. Prepare to be transported to the captivating era of samurais as you enter the majestic Okayama Castle. Marvel at its grandeur and immerse yourself in the rich history that echoes through its walls. Continue to walk to the serene masterpiece of nature, Koraku-en Garden. Let the tranquility wash over you as you stroll through meticulously manicured landscapes, where every corner reveals a new moment of awe-inspiring beauty. But the journey doesn't end there. Hop aboard a train and venture to the charming Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter. With our Gold Guide as your compass, wander through the picturesque streets lined with traditional wooden buildings. Feel the echoes of the past whisper through the air as you explore quaint shops and art galleries showcasing the rich heritage and craftsmanship of old Japan. Throughout this unforgettable experience, our Gold Guide will unlock the secrets of Okayama, revealing the stories that have shaped its timeless beauty.
Embark on a soul-stirring journey through Hiroshima, where history and tranquility converge in a harmonious blend. Our guided tour takes you on a profound exploration of the city's resilience and beauty, beginning with the hallowed grounds of Peace Memorial Park and Museum. Witness the eternal Flame of Peace and pay your respects at the Children's Peace Monument, a touching tribute to the innocent lives lost. Through insightful narration, you'll gain a deep understanding of Hiroshima's transformative journey from devastation to hope. The tour then seamlessly transitions to the exquisite Shukkei-en Garden, a hidden oasis in the heart of the city. Stroll through meticulously landscaped gardens, where every stone and tree tells a tale of Japanese aesthetics and harmony. This part of the tour provides a peaceful contrast to the earlier exploration of Hiroshima's tumultuous history, leaving you with a sense of balance and appreciation for the city's multifaceted character. This experience promises an intellectual journey and a soul-enriching encounter with Hiroshima's profound spirit.
Embark on a captivating journey through Hiroshima, a city steeped in history and resilience, with our expertly guided tour. Immerse yourself in the serenity of Miyajima Island, home to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, whose vermilion torii gate seemingly floats on the tranquil waters. Marvel at the timeless beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site as our knowledgeable guide unveils the island's rich cultural tapestry. Next, delve into the poignant chapters of Hiroshima's past at the Peace Memorial Park and Museum. Walk through the symbolic Peace Memorial Park, a tribute to the victims of the atomic bombing. Witness the Flame of Peace, burning eternally, and the solemn Memorial Cenotaph, framing the A-Bomb Dome in the distance. Our insightful guide will narrate the city's rebirth from the ashes, emphasizing the importance of peace and remembrance. Step into the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, where powerful exhibits and personal stories vividly portray the impact of the atomic bomb. Gain a deep understanding of Hiroshima's journey towards reconstruction and reconciliation, leaving you with a profound appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit.