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English Gifu Tour Guides

Japan

George M.

Hello, I’m George, a local guide born and raised in Takayama and still living here today. I offer relaxed private tours for small groups and enjoy sharing the real atmosphere of this town. I can show you famous spots, local culture, history, and everyday life that many visitors miss. If it is your first time in Takayama, don’t worry. I will guide you at a comfortable pace and help you enjoy your day.

Japan

Naoto K.

Hello! I’m Naoto. I was born and raised in the dramatic landscape of Toyama, with Kanazawa as my favorite weekend playground since my young-hood. I am thrilled that you are considering the Hokuriku region for your Japanese journey. After living abroad and spending decades in Tokyo area, I returned to my roots with a clear mission: to share the authentic, soulful Japan that remains tucked away from the crowds. In Toyama and Kanazawa, you won’t just see history—you will feel it. This is a region of "hidden gems," where ancient traditions and pristine nature coexist in their purest form. I specialize in taking you where the tour buses don’t go. Whether we are: Unlocking Samurai Legacies: Exploring the hidden corridors of Kanazawa’s history and the delicate mastery of its gold-leaf artisans. Savoring the Secret Harvest: Dining at secluded mountain retreats or tasting the "jewels of the sea" fresh from Toyama Bay. Immersive Nature & Tradition: From the dramatic peaks of the Northern Alps to the quiet craftsmanship of woodcarving villages and local festivals. Pop Culture & Local Legends: Diving into the world of manga, anime, and folklore known only to those who live here. Because of my years overseas, I understand the curiosity and the "why" behind an international traveler's questions. I don’t just show you the sights; I translate the culture, bridging the gap between a visitor and a local. Every itinerary is 100% customized to your pace, your interests, and your sense of adventure. Let’s step off the beaten path together. Reach out today, and let’s start planning your one-of-a-kind Japanese adventure! [Qualifications] In addition to the government licensed guide interpreter (English), Certified General Travel Services Manager Advanced Language Proficiency EIKEN Grade 1 (Test in Practical English Proficiency - Top Level) TOEIC: 985 TOEFL iBT: 108 *The Historical Proficiency Test (Japanese History, Grade 2)

Japan

Serge R.

Hi lovely travelers, I'm Serge, originally from the Netherlands, and Japan has been my home for over three decades now. What brought me here initially was love, and that love has kept me rooted in this beautiful country ever since. Along the way, I discovered another love: Japan itself. Following my stint as a radio jockey and TV presenter, where I co-hosted a dedicated program for the Nagoya Grampus soccer team, I transitioned to a behind-the-scenes role as a media fixer for international media outlets. Though my job as media fixer, I've been traveling and working throughout all of Japan, exploring unique places and meeting lots of very interesting people. I would love to share and make you, my dear traveler, experience these places as well. Visiting and getting a tour at Japan's oldest traditional vinegar maker, or experience and taste at a traditional "katsuo bushi" bonito flake maker, or do you prefer to visit some old local shrines or temples. with no-one around you, except for the crickets and trees. Maybe you just want a friend to bring you to your desired locations and interpret and be at your beck and call 24 hours (like I do for the media). If you're looking for flexibility (time, places. transport), you won't find a better match than me. My work as a fixer taught me a valuable lesson: the key to traveling together successfully, lies in a blend of humor, professionalism, and adaptability.

Japan

Shoten S.

Hello, my name is Shoten, please call me Sho. I was born in a local area in Toyama prefecture. I majored in civil engineering at a college and am interested in historical infrastructures. After graduation, I continued to study English at a local English circle. In international activities, I also guided foreign people around Toyama Prefecture, Ishikawa Prefecture, and Gifu Prefecture. After retirement, I work as a guide interpreter and a translator. The Hokuriku region has many sightseeing spots, including beautiful landscapes like Kenrokuen Garden and Tateyama, tasty food like traditional Kaga dishes and fresh seafood from Toyama Bay, and traditional crafts like Takaoka copperware and Inami woodcarving. I introduce these spots and historical infra tourism, such as the Kurobe dam and industrial tourism. I look forward to welcoming you to the Hokuriku region.

Japan

Tetsuji Y.

Hello everyone. I am Tetsuji. I worked as a public servant in the local government for 35 years. I belonged to the department of Redevelopment, Town-Landscaping, Preserving historical areas and Architectural Guidance. (I have a national 1st-class architect license.) I devoted myself to revitalizing the city by making plans and improving infrastructure for citizens. Gifu is located in central Japan near Nagoya. As just being the crossroads of the West and the East, there are many unique attractions that are hard to discover in hectic big cities like Tokyo or Kyoto. I had a hand in restoring and preserving some of them throughout my career and want to introduce them to tourists from abroad. That’s why I became a guide-interpreter in Gifu. I also enjoyed traveling around the world. My favorite part of each trip was walking around the city and talking with local residents. Traveling has taught me lots of things during my lifetime. Now, I would like to help others have similar experience in Japan. Shall we enjoy fantastic journey in Gifu?

Japan

Charley S.

Konnichiwa - - - Charley here. Originally, I grew up in Los Angeles and San Diego for the first quarter century of my life. In 2000, I moved to Aichi Prefecture, Japan. One of my main goals was to play music with Japanese musicians, particularly in the underground music scene, which I've been a part of throughout my life. Also, I wanted to enjoy and explore the beauty of living in a foreign country. I've been living here for 25 years, and can gladly say that I have been engaged thoroughly in both of those goals. Since the beginning of moving to Japan, I've always chosen to hang out and engage with Japanese people as opposed to other foreigners. I often find myself in izakaiyas and concert events where I am the only foreigner, but fortunately I am on good terms with the staff and other customers. So if you are looking to see the less touristy aspects of Japan, please feel free to get in touch with me and I would love to share what I have come to appreciate about Japan. Cheers !

Japan

Kazuhiko G.

Hello, I’m Kazuhiko. Please call me “Kazu”. I'm a national-licensed tour guide. I have a wife and 4 children. I was born in Osaka city near Kyoto, although I have lived in many places across Japan. I used to work for multinational electric company and I traveled to many countries (U.S., Thailand, Hong Kong etc.) on business. I have enjoyed guiding many foreign tourists in Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Hiroshima, Tokyo, Mt. Fuji etc. for many years. During your tour, you can discover a rich Japanese history spanning about 2,000 years, learn about and experience profound Japanese arts (tea ceremony, flower arrangement etc.), feel the spiritual atmosphere of Buddhist temples or Shinto shrines, see a breathtakingly beautiful scenery of Mt. Fuji, bamboo forest, Japanese gardens etc.. Moreover, you can taste Japanese cuisine that each season has to offer (Sushi, Tempura, Soba or ramen noodle etc.). You can get close to nature and feed wild deer or monkeys or even a build snowman in winter. I’m sure that I can provide a splendid tour of Japan that will be a lasting memory for you to treasure. Experience the mysteries of Japan with 5 senses !! Your memorable tour awaits you. Please feel free to contact me!!

Japan

Koki N.

Hello! My name is Koki. I'm English speakinig tour guide living in Gifu city. I already visited more than 60 nations so far. I can speak some Manderin & Cantonese too. Let's enjoy real Japanese culture & history with me. I would enjoy with you real Samurai history, Kimono culture, local traditional festival, temple,shrine,Japanese tea ceremony, food and Sake. If you would like to more understand Japanese castle, I can attend you and teach you about how appreciation point of Japanese castle and garden with beautiful meal and sweets. Let's travel with me!

Japan

Hideo Y.

Hello, I'm HIDEo YOSHIda. Please call me HIDEYOSHI, the same name as the famous shogun who built the Osaka Castle in 1585. I was born in Kobe and worked in Osaka for nearly 40 years. I would like to introduce the Kansai region to you ,including Kobe, Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Wakayama. Kobe is one of the two largest ports in Japan, along with Yokohama. After the opening of the Port of Kobe in 1868, foreigners built their residences on the hillside of the Kitano-cho area, overlooking the ocean. Many of the foreign residences are now open to the public as museums, including the Weathercock House, with it's symbol weathercock on the triangle-shaped roof. In Meriken Park, the red Port Tower (the city's landmark), creates a beautiful contrast against the white Kobe Marine Museum. The museum's design was inspired by the waves and sailing ships. When you have a chance to visit Osaka, please join my tour. I'm sure you'll enjoy the interesting and historical, scenic spots. For example, Shin-Sekai is a downtown area with a strange mix of nostalgic atmosphere and contemporary energy. You can try local foods (kushikatsu, sushi, tempura) at a reasonable price. Billiken (a famous statue of the spirit of luck) will be waiting for you!!. Dotombori is a popular street with a lot of flashy signboards. Osaka is widely known as a "Kuidaore-no-machi", or literally "drinking and eating luxuriously to death." Osaka Castle was built by Toyotomi HIDEYOSHI in 1585. Oh, it's my residence, isn't it ! These days "The Wizarding World of Harry Potter" area in USJ, or Universal Studios Japan, is also attracting more and more people. I'll be looking forward to seeing you !!

Japan

Yuriko S.

I am Yuriko from Gifu Prefecture. I was an assistant English teacher at junior high school. I started to work as a National Certificate tour guide in 2019. I'm very interested in kimono, tea ceremony and Japanese castles. I sometimes guide in kimono. There are so many nice places to visit in Gifu and Nagoya! I also guide around Takayama, Shirakawago, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka and Kanazawa if you pay my transportation fee from my hometown. Let's enjoy Japan with me!

Japan

Roy K.

I am Roy, who had been stationed in the United States for 11 years and experienced the business trips to more than 40 countries all over the world. My home town Nagoya has many amazing places to visit such as Atsuta shrine, Nagoya castle and Osu Kannon temples in the large shopping district. I will let you have unforgettable time in Nagoya area as a Government Licensed Guide Interpreter. I look forward to showing you around and talking about Japanese old and new culture and history.

Japan

Akiko W.

Hello! My name is Akiko from Gifu prefecture. I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter. I hold the Domestic Tour Manager Certification. I have guided in Gifu prefecture and Aichi prefecture. Gifu city has a beautiful river 'Nagara river' and Mt. Kinka which has Gifu castle on the top. (I am sorry, but Gifu Castle is currently closed for renovation.) At the foot of the mountain , there are many places to visit such as parks, a temple having a big image of Buddha, and a street preserving the historic atmosphere. At Gifu Castle Rakuichi, you can enjoy local food and shop for souvenirs unique to Gifu. Seki City is a small city but so famous for its cutlery. Seki City is the best place to buy high-quality knives. At Japanese sword museum in Seki, you can see authentic Japanese swords! This year, 2026, Seki City has Seki Cutlery Festival on October 10th and 11th. There are many exciting events, including a Japanese sword-forging demonstration(A reservation is required.) The huge cutlery sale is also something you won't want to miss! Mino City next to Seki City is well known for its hand made Japanese paper 'Hon Minoshi' designated as intangible cultural asset by UNESCO . You can try traditional paper making. Takayama and Shirakawago are perfect places for those who want to experience traditional Japan. Nagoya is a great place to experience both samurai culture and modern Japan. Nagoya's delicious local cuisine is another attraction. Gujo Hachiman is a charming mountain town with crystal-clear rivers and a peaceful atmosphere. Why not try Gujo Odori, one of Japan's most famous Bon dances, or experience making realistic food samples? I can create a tour tailored to your interests and preferences. Please feel free to ask me when you need information about Japan. I will do my best so that your tour is enjoyable and memorable. Thank you for reading my introduction.

Japan

Bonnie C.

I am a cheerful and energetic lady from Hong Kong. I came to Takayama first as a tourist since 2014 and I fell in love with this region. In spare time, I enjoy exploring traditional events and festivals as well as new restaurants in all these areas. Being a tour conductor in Shirakawago, I am equipped with knowledge and skills in guiding single traveler, family and groups(more than 40 guests). With my fluent English, Chinese and abundant knowledge of this region, I am confident to show you around and tailor-made your desirable schedule. I am looking forward to seeing you.

Japan

Michiko N.

Hello, I am Michiko , the same name of Japanese ex-Empress. I am a government certified tour guide. I have lived in Nagoya ( located between Tokyo and Osaka) for 35 years since I got married. I worked for JAL as a flight attendant in my 20's. After retiring JAL, I have taught English and Mathematics to junior and senior high school students for 20 years. I love traveling very much both domestically and abroad and enjoy walking around each city and talking with local people so that I can find out the way how to they live and think about their life. It's quite a fun for me. I also love hiking and mountain climbing in spring, summer and autumn, and skiing in winter. In the countryside of Japan there still remain those farming and fishery villages where people have been rooted in their land and community, living the way handed down from generation to generation. You can also enjoy the original Japanese landscape there. Why don't you get out of the hustle and bustle of your busy life and have a rest rich in nature in the rural Japan enjoying beautiful scenery and local food. I'm waiting for you!

Japan

Mao Y.

Hi! I'm Mao. My home town is Takayama and I like here a lot! I’d like to show you! I love meeting friends, chatting, travel around, play sports, drinking and go to my favorite restaurants. I'll offer more local sightseeing spots, eateries, cafes, bars and leisure facility and also I'm familiar with suburban area. I have an experience of living in BC, Canada and then taught Japanese and culture for kids in a school. After that, I have been worked at a hostel in Takayama. I like to meet people and to know new things for me. Feel free to contact me! I carefully select tours that are suitable for this arrangement, and I am happy to discuss details in advance to ensure everyone feels comfortable. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns.

Japan

Tom K.

Hello, This is Tom!! I started to work as an English speaking Guide from last year of Aichi and Gifu, Shiga, Shizuoka or Toyama, around mid center of Japan. I already have many experiences of guiding tourists from many countries at “Nagoya castle”, “Toyota commemorative museum”, “Atsuta Jingu shrine”, “Osu Kannon temple and shopping arcade”, “Inuyama castle”, “Nagashima outlet mall”, "Seto-Gura pottary museum", “Sekigahara samurai battle field“, “Seki swordsmith museum”, “Takayama traditional town street”, “Takayama Jinya shogunate office”, “Shirakawa-go thatched roof houses village”, “Tateyama snow wall” as well. If you have interests of Japanese history and culture or way of life, we can learn together them through my histrical tours. I also work as a tour conductor of group tour using Van or Tour Bus or Shinkansen bullet train and have experiences of attending their lunch and dinner then I have experiences of how to cope different food restrictions of each ethnic group. And I am little aged as you see then I am familiar with “slow life style” of elderly people then I will customize the pace of my tour flexibly according to the age and condition of my customer. On the other hand if you have little kids in your party, I can prepare tours for kids like “Ghibli park” or “SCMaglev railway park” as well. Please contact me immediately when you are ready to visit here around mid center of Japan.

Japan

Takuji H.

I enjoy traveling and have visited many places throughout Japan. I also like traveling abroad and have visited many countries. I believe that my experience participating in local tours in those countries will help me ensure that international guests are satisfied. I was born and raised in Gifu Prefecture. I have also lived in Nagoya and Tokyo. I can provide detailed guidance around Gifu and Aichi Prefectures. I will do my best to ensure that you have as enjoyable an experience as possible.

Japan

Saki K.

Hi! Thank you for checking my profile, I'm Saki. If you are interested in discovering the Central Japan area, Aichi, Gifu, Mie, Nagano please leave it on me! I was born in Aichi prefecture where Nagoya is located in. It's a shame many tourists skip our Central area on their itinerary as it's not known well as destination for tourist. However, I'm proud of my region where you can experience Japanese people local life and beauty of hidden nature. If you are a little bit tired with the touristic places please visit my region. I'll take you calm and tranquil nature places, tasting our traditional cuisine and experiencing local people's real life. As my husband is from USA, I have many experiences to take my foreign family and friends my favorite places. It was my pleasure they loved where I presented and discovered different side of Japan. I'd like to help making your trip unforgettable and full of new experiences. I'm really looking forward to presenting you our Central region and seeing you. Thank you for reading my profile, see you soon! ※If you need the guide to be conducted in Spanish, I can attend in Spanish too. Si necesita que la guía se haga en español, estoy disponible en español también.

Japan

Tae T.

I love history, food, traveling, cycling, dogs & so on. I am looking forward to introduce the beautiful Japan. I can take you on a highlight and historical tour! Looking forward to seeing you!

Japan

Tatsuya I.

My name is Tatsuya Ito. I am living in Nagoya city, Aichi, Japan. I am a national licensed guide interpreter (English). I can also speak Chinese (Basic level). I have been guiding Nagoya Castle as a volunteer guide for 6 years. I want to take you to many Japanese beautiful places. I like to travel by train. If you are interested in train travel in Japan, I can introduce nice places to visit with local train.

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