Japanese Ishikawa Tour Guides
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Japan
Naoto K.
5.00 / 5
(30 reviews)
5.00 / 5
(30 reviews)
Hello! I’m Naoto. Born and raised in Toyama, with Kanazawa as my backyard, I welcome you to Hokuriku—Japan’s sanctuary of culture, nature, and gastronomy. My roots run deep into Takayama, Gifu. I even spent part of my childhood in a traditional thatched-roof house, giving me a lifelong connection to the heritage and craft of Hokuriku and Hida. After living abroad and spending decades in Tokyo, I returned to curate tailored journeys into authentic Japan, far from tourist crowds. In Hokuriku, you experience history through all senses. With my private vehicle, I offer door-to-door comfort to extraordinary places tour buses cannot reach. What Makes Your Journey Extraordinary: Food as Living Culture: From "jewels of the sea" along Toyama Bay (Iwase/Himi) and samurai cuisine to mountain retreat dining, every meal is curated to your tastes. Samurai Legacies & Crafts: Walk through samurai districts and connect with artisans, from Kanazawa’s gold leaf to Inami woodcarving and Gokayama Washi paper. Majestic Nature: Experience contrast—from the Northern Japan Alps to UNESCO-listed villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama. Immersive Experiences: Craft workshops, culinary sessions, or quiet river excursions with a local insider. Having lived abroad, I act as your cultural translator, bridging the gap between a visitor and local Japan. Every itinerary is 100% customized to your pace. Let’s create an unforgettable journey tailored for you. [Qualifications] Government-Licensed Guide-Interpreter (English) Certified General Travel Services Manager Historical Proficiency Test (Japanese History, Grade 2) English: EIKEN Grade 1 | TOEIC: 985 | TOEFL iBT: 108 U.S. Graduate Degree; 3+ Years Abroad Certified in CPR and AED (Basic Life Supporter) by the Japanese Red Cross Society
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Japan
Shoten S.
5.00 / 5
(6 reviews)
5.00 / 5
(6 reviews)
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.
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Japan
Kenji K.
Hello and welcome to Japan! I am a Japan National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter based in Toyama, in the Hokuriku region of Japan. I have over 25 years of experience teaching English in Japan and hold a Master’s degree in TESOL from a university in the United States. My experience as an English educator has taught me how to communicate clearly and make people from different cultural backgrounds feel comfortable and welcome. I obtained my Regional Guide Interpreter certification in Toyama in 2019 and began actively guiding visitors in 2025. Since then, I have guided visitors in Kanazawa through volunteer activities and have also conducted several paid FIT walking tours. In 2026, I became a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter, completed professional guide training with IJCEE, and obtained a Tour Conductor qualification. I specialize in Toyama, Kanazawa, Takayama, and Shirakawa-go, as well as other destinations in the Hokuriku and surrounding Central Japan regions. What I enjoy most about guiding is helping visitors discover not only famous sights, but also the stories, food, traditions, gardens, local culture, and everyday life that make Japan special. I particularly enjoy creating relaxed and personalized experiences for travelers who want to see Japan from a local perspective. I look forward to helping you discover a memorable and authentic side of Japan!
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Japan
Raphaël P.
5.00 / 5
(44 reviews)
5.00 / 5
(44 reviews)
Kanazawa-based private guide offering deeply curated, seamless experiences across the region. I have been living in Kanazawa since 2019 with my Japanese wife and our children, and over time have developed a deep understanding of the region: its history, craftsmanship, and everyday life. This is not simply where I guide, but where I live and build my life. Over the past couple of years, I have led more than 500 private tours across Kanazawa, Shirakawa-go, Takayama, Kaga, and beyond, working with international guests in English, French, and Spanish. My background spans over 20 years in the international service industry, including hospitality, consulting for Michelin-level restaurants and traditional ryokan, and the performing arts. This experience naturally shapes the way I guide, combining structure, adaptability, and attention to detail, while keeping each day engaging and personal. Each experience is carefully adapted to the people in front of me. Whether that means exploring major highlights, discovering quieter places, or adjusting the pace to create a smooth and memorable day. If this approach resonates with you, I would be very happy to guide you. Kind regards, Raphaël
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Japan
Criselda C.
5.00 / 5
(7 reviews)
5.00 / 5
(7 reviews)