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Popular Okinawa Main Island Tour Guides
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Yuki H.
Hi, I’m Yuki from Okinawa! Born and raised here, I know the island not only as a destination, but as home. After spending 5 years living in Australia, I understand what international travelers look for — authenticity, connection, and comfort. As a local guide with one year of experience, I love sharing the real Okinawa beyond the typical tourist spots. I will guide you through history, culture, food, and everyday island life while making sure your day is smooth, comfortable, and fun. My goal is simple: not just to show you Okinawa, but to help you feel it. I look forward to meeting you and exploring together!
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Tateo U.
My name is Tateo. I am officially registerd English tour guide and introducing about Okinawa's history,culture, and nature.I am elderly person but have gone through lots of expericences that happened during US occupation after WW2. For the example, change of monetary system(US dollar to Yen),Change of traffic regulation(driving vehicle from right to left).The reversion of Okinawa to main land Japan was biggest historical event.The US administered Okinawa for 27 years. As a result, thing were Americanized in many aspects. Historically, Okinawa was once independent nation until 1872.During Kingdum era, Okinawa actively traded with China, South Asia Countries, Korea, and Japan. In the end, our culture is quite differ much from main land Japan. For instance, architectural technique, daily customs, and culture are also unique. Okinawa is the only prefecture belong to subtropical climate zone. Even winter time, it's neither hot nor cold. People can enjoy marine sport all through the year.Canoeing, Kayaking, Diving, and Snorkeling are popular. Besides, beatiful white sand beaches and attractive coastline are abundant. Green sea water and blue sky have been lured people from all over the world. Traditional music and dance are worth seeing. Please visit Okinawa and enjoy extraordinary trip. I will be looking forward to seeing you soon.
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Harry M.
Looking for a guide who truly knows Okinawa? With 15 years of experience in the field of science education in both Okinawa and Hawaiʻi, I now work as a guide-interpreter and edutainer (educator + entertainer) based in Okinawa. I use my educational background to create unique, engaging tours that help participants discover something new about Okinawa’s breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From exploring Okinawa’s diverse ecosystems, both on land and in the sea, to experiencing the traditions of Karate and the enchanting sounds of Okinawan Sanshin music, I’m passionate about sharing the best of Okinawa with you. If you’re ready for a tour that’s not only unforgettable but also filled with learning and discovery, let’s embark on this journey together! (I also offer guided tours of the Mt. Fuji area, my hometown. Additional transportation fees apply.) Guiding Fee (For up to 10 people): - 4 hours: ¥30,000 - 6 hours: ¥35,000 - 8 hours: ¥40,000 Guiding with Car Transportation (For up to 3 people): - Extra ¥15,000 - 20,000 (Includes gas, parking, and expressway fees)
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Noriko Y.
Hi. I was a tour guide for Japanese speak in Japanese in main-land Japan around Tokyo. Now, I live in Okinawa for over ten years with my family. I wanted to be a tour guide for foreigners because I appreciate people's helps when I traveled around world. I traveled over seventy countries. I like traveling because I learn a lot from people who I meet. Finally, I got a certificate for being an English tour guide. I would like you to spend meaningful time in Okinawa. Okinawa has unique culture, they mixed Japanese and Chinese way, then, built up a new own culture. With limited time, I hope you enjoy seeing a lot and knowing a lot.
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Sara E.
"Chuuganabira" or "Hello" as we say here in Shuri! I'm Sara. My mother is Japanese from Nagasaki and my father is American from Pennsylvania. I spent my formative years between Japan and the U.S. giving me a naturally bicultural outlook and global sensibility. I am a hospitality professional with over 35 years of experience in Japan’s international hotel and tourism industries having held senior positions with world-renowned hotels. I have also worked as a simultaneous interpreter for major Japanese organizations supporting large scale cultural and international events. I relocated from Tokyo to Naha in 2003 because I totally fell in love with this beautiful port city during my travels - the warm friendly people, delicious local food, rich history and culture and most of all the breathtaking turquoise ocean and magnificent blue sky. My passion is making people happy through "omotenashi" - the Japanese art of polite, thoughtful and respectful hospitality. I specialize in Shuri Castle tours. I have insider access to Shuri Castle through my onsite research, a membership in the Shuri Castle Friendship Association and a strong connection with both the castle's staff and the Okinawa Churashima Foundation which operates the castle. I also have deep ties with the Sho royal family giving me unparalleled insights into the history and culture of the Ryukyu Kingdom. I am looking forward to introducing you to the royal, majestic and fascinating world of Shuri!
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Victoria N.
My name is Victoria, and I’ve been living on Okinawa for 10 years. Would you like to visit non-touristy places known only to locals? I’ll be happy to show them to you! For more than six years, I’ve been guiding tours and sharing the beauty and atmosphere of this unique island with visitors. I love Japan — its culture, history, and anime — and I’m always excited to share not just facts, but the soul of this place. On my tours, you will see not only the famous landmarks, but also hidden, fascinating corners of the island that few people know about. With me, you will experience the real Okinawa: taste local cuisine, hear legends, learn traditions, and glimpse the everyday life of the islanders. I speak both English and Japanese, so I can help you feel confident and comfortable in any situation. If you want not just a tour, but a living journey with someone who is truly in love with Japan, I’ll be happy to guide you!
New Okinawa Main Island Tour Guides
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Yuki H.
Hi, I’m Yuki from Okinawa! Born and raised here, I know the island not only as a destination, but as home. After spending 5 years living in Australia, I understand what international travelers look for — authenticity, connection, and comfort. As a local guide with one year of experience, I love sharing the real Okinawa beyond the typical tourist spots. I will guide you through history, culture, food, and everyday island life while making sure your day is smooth, comfortable, and fun. My goal is simple: not just to show you Okinawa, but to help you feel it. I look forward to meeting you and exploring together!
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Victoria N.
My name is Victoria, and I’ve been living on Okinawa for 10 years. Would you like to visit non-touristy places known only to locals? I’ll be happy to show them to you! For more than six years, I’ve been guiding tours and sharing the beauty and atmosphere of this unique island with visitors. I love Japan — its culture, history, and anime — and I’m always excited to share not just facts, but the soul of this place. On my tours, you will see not only the famous landmarks, but also hidden, fascinating corners of the island that few people know about. With me, you will experience the real Okinawa: taste local cuisine, hear legends, learn traditions, and glimpse the everyday life of the islanders. I speak both English and Japanese, so I can help you feel confident and comfortable in any situation. If you want not just a tour, but a living journey with someone who is truly in love with Japan, I’ll be happy to guide you!
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Sara E.
"Chuuganabira" or "Hello" as we say here in Shuri! I'm Sara. My mother is Japanese from Nagasaki and my father is American from Pennsylvania. I spent my formative years between Japan and the U.S. giving me a naturally bicultural outlook and global sensibility. I am a hospitality professional with over 35 years of experience in Japan’s international hotel and tourism industries having held senior positions with world-renowned hotels. I have also worked as a simultaneous interpreter for major Japanese organizations supporting large scale cultural and international events. I relocated from Tokyo to Naha in 2003 because I totally fell in love with this beautiful port city during my travels - the warm friendly people, delicious local food, rich history and culture and most of all the breathtaking turquoise ocean and magnificent blue sky. My passion is making people happy through "omotenashi" - the Japanese art of polite, thoughtful and respectful hospitality. I specialize in Shuri Castle tours. I have insider access to Shuri Castle through my onsite research, a membership in the Shuri Castle Friendship Association and a strong connection with both the castle's staff and the Okinawa Churashima Foundation which operates the castle. I also have deep ties with the Sho royal family giving me unparalleled insights into the history and culture of the Ryukyu Kingdom. I am looking forward to introducing you to the royal, majestic and fascinating world of Shuri!
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Harry M.
Looking for a guide who truly knows Okinawa? With 15 years of experience in the field of science education in both Okinawa and Hawaiʻi, I now work as a guide-interpreter and edutainer (educator + entertainer) based in Okinawa. I use my educational background to create unique, engaging tours that help participants discover something new about Okinawa’s breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From exploring Okinawa’s diverse ecosystems, both on land and in the sea, to experiencing the traditions of Karate and the enchanting sounds of Okinawan Sanshin music, I’m passionate about sharing the best of Okinawa with you. If you’re ready for a tour that’s not only unforgettable but also filled with learning and discovery, let’s embark on this journey together! (I also offer guided tours of the Mt. Fuji area, my hometown. Additional transportation fees apply.) Guiding Fee (For up to 10 people): - 4 hours: ¥30,000 - 6 hours: ¥35,000 - 8 hours: ¥40,000 Guiding with Car Transportation (For up to 3 people): - Extra ¥15,000 - 20,000 (Includes gas, parking, and expressway fees)
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Tateo U.
My name is Tateo. I am officially registerd English tour guide and introducing about Okinawa's history,culture, and nature.I am elderly person but have gone through lots of expericences that happened during US occupation after WW2. For the example, change of monetary system(US dollar to Yen),Change of traffic regulation(driving vehicle from right to left).The reversion of Okinawa to main land Japan was biggest historical event.The US administered Okinawa for 27 years. As a result, thing were Americanized in many aspects. Historically, Okinawa was once independent nation until 1872.During Kingdum era, Okinawa actively traded with China, South Asia Countries, Korea, and Japan. In the end, our culture is quite differ much from main land Japan. For instance, architectural technique, daily customs, and culture are also unique. Okinawa is the only prefecture belong to subtropical climate zone. Even winter time, it's neither hot nor cold. People can enjoy marine sport all through the year.Canoeing, Kayaking, Diving, and Snorkeling are popular. Besides, beatiful white sand beaches and attractive coastline are abundant. Green sea water and blue sky have been lured people from all over the world. Traditional music and dance are worth seeing. Please visit Okinawa and enjoy extraordinary trip. I will be looking forward to seeing you soon.
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Noriko Y.
Hi. I was a tour guide for Japanese speak in Japanese in main-land Japan around Tokyo. Now, I live in Okinawa for over ten years with my family. I wanted to be a tour guide for foreigners because I appreciate people's helps when I traveled around world. I traveled over seventy countries. I like traveling because I learn a lot from people who I meet. Finally, I got a certificate for being an English tour guide. I would like you to spend meaningful time in Okinawa. Okinawa has unique culture, they mixed Japanese and Chinese way, then, built up a new own culture. With limited time, I hope you enjoy seeing a lot and knowing a lot.
Okinawa Main Island Tour Reviews
Teru ann B.
“Tateo is a Dedicated True Expert Guide and Okinawan”
Tateo was the perfect guide who knew the first person inside stories of Okinawa. I have never heard such perfect colloquial English from any Japanese national. He’s a living treasure. I would highly recommend him to all.
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Tateo U.
The locations you chose was not typical tourist destinations but a special place essential for reporting on Okinawa during and after the war. I would be happy if this tour becomes on essential part of the story, you write. Please come back to this island sometime to relax. Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to write review. Regards Tateo U.
Ramona M.
“Very informative and interesting tour of Okinawa”
We are very happy with our guide, Tateo, and highly recommend him. He is quite knowledgeable about Okinawa and shared lots of interesting information with us throughout the tour. He was very thorough and listened to what we are interested in, and we feel like we gained a friend.
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Tateo U.
I would be happy if you, who are half Japanese have discovered Okinawa you didn't know about. There are still many parts of Okinawa that haven't been introduced yet. Please visit Okinawa again with your husband someday. Finally, thank you for writing such a positive review. Best Regards, Tateo U.
Allan C.
“An unforgettable experience in Okinawa.”
An extraordinary 3 day’s in Okinawa that became a highlight of our entire three‑week trip to Japan. Our guide was consistently punctual, deeply knowledgeable, and remarkably flexible in shaping the day around our interests and energy levels. The level of care and humility he showed—especially toward my nearly 80‑year‑old mother‑in‑law—made the experience feel personal and genuinely supportive. He encouraged her at every stop, adjusted the pace when needed, and shared plenty of laughs with us about how many stairs we managed to conquer together. His understanding of Okinawa’s WWII history was exceptional. He explained complex events with clarity, respect, and emotional depth, helping us appreciate the significance of each site we visited. The stories he shared added meaning far beyond what we could have learned on our own. Every arrangement was smooth and comfortable, and the day balanced fun, learning, and relaxation perfectly. It was easily the most enjoyable and memorable day’s of our entire visit to Japan. Anyone looking for a guide who is knowledgeable, kind, humorous, and truly attentive will be in excellent hands. Thanks Harry-san.
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Harry M.
Dear Allan-san, Thank you so much for your thoughtful and generous review. It truly means a great deal to me. It was a real privilege to spend those three days with you and your family. I especially appreciated the time we shared exploring Okinawa’s history together. Your deep interest in WWII sites and the perspectives you brought from your travels around the world made the experience even more meaningful for me as well. I learned a great deal alongside you, and it reminded me how much there is still to discover. I was also very happy to spend time with your mother-in-law. Her positive spirit and determination were truly inspiring, and I will always remember the moments we shared along the way. One day, I hope to follow in your footsteps and visit the islands of the South Pacific to further deepen my own understanding of history. Our time together has certainly encouraged me to do so. Thank you again for your kindness and for making these days so memorable. I hope to welcome you back to Okinawa—and perhaps Yomitan—again in the future. Warm regards, Harry
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