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Joined 2026
Naoto O.
Available Areas
Mie (Living), Nara
Languages
Chinese (Simplified), Chinese (Traditional), English, Japanese (Native)
Response Time
14 hours on average
Availability Updated
3 days ago
About Tour Guide Naoto O.
Hello, my name is Naoto, a local guide based in Mie, Japan.
I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (2026), offering private tours that go beyond typical sightseeing. My goal is to help you experience Japan, not just visit it.
Before becoming a licensed guide, I completed an official tourism training program organized by the Mie Prefectural Government (2025). Through this program, I developed a strong foundation in Japanese history and culture, as well as practical skills in guiding and tour planning.
■Background and Language Skills
I studied in Kyoto and also lived in Canada and New Zealand. I hold EIKEN Grade 1 and a TOEIC score of 925. My academic background is in law and international relations, so I am comfortable discussing both Japanese culture and global topics.
■Specialized Areas: Hidden Japan Experiences
I specialize in guiding visitors to less-crowded, culturally rich destinations such as the Iga region, the birthplace of ninja, and the quiet historical areas of eastern Nara Prefecture. These locations offer a deeper and more authentic understanding of Japan.
I can also guide you to Ise Grand Shrine, one of the most sacred and important sites in Japan.
■Comfortable Private Tours
Since public transportation is limited in these rural areas, tours are conducted by private car to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience.
■Local Food Experience
If you are interested, I can introduce you to local restaurants where you can enjoy fresh, organic vegetables from this region.
I look forward to creating a personalized and memorable experience for you.
Feel free to message me anytime to customize your tour.
Tours
All tours can be customized for you. Send me a message with your requests!
Categories
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Explore Ise Grand Shrine: Authentic Pilgrimage from Geku to Naiku (6 Hours)
Experience an authentic pilgrimage to the Ise Grand Shrine with a licensed guide. This tour follows the traditional order of worship, visiting Toyouke Daijingu (Geku) first, then Kotai Jingu (Naiku). You will learn Shinto rituals, proper etiquette, and the meaning behind Japan’s most sacred site. We will also walk through Oharaimachi, a charming traditional street, where you can enjoy local food such as Ise udon and Tekone sushi.
Explore Ise Grand Shrine: Authentic Pilgrimage from Geku to Naiku (6 Hours)
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Iga Ninja Experience: Dress Up, Throw Shuriken & Explore a Samurai Castle (4h Private)
Discover the real world of ninja in Iga, the birthplace of the Iga-ryu Ninja. This tour combines a visit to Iga-ryu Ninja Museum and Iga Ueno Castle with a walk through the historic castle town. With a nationally licensed guide, you will learn the difference between the popular image of ninja and their real historical role. Optional activities such as a ninja show, shuriken throwing, and costume experience are available.
Iga Ninja Experience: Dress Up, Throw Shuriken & Explore a Samurai Castle (4h Private)
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Nara Asuka Private Tour: Explore Japan’s Origins by Car (Tanzan Shrine & More)
Discover Asuka, the ancient capital known as the birthplace of Japan, on this private tour through peaceful countryside. Explore the Asuka period (6th–7th century), when powerful clans shaped the foundations of Japan, by visiting Tanzan Shrine, Ishibutai Tomb, and Asukadera Temple. Travel efficiently by the guide’s private car, making it easy to reach sites that are difficult to access by public transport. The area is also expected to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Nara Asuka Private Tour: Explore Japan’s Origins by Car (Tanzan Shrine & More)
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Mystical Nara: Omiwa Shrine & Hasedera Temple Tour
This tour explores the spiritual heart of Nara. Omiwa Shrine is one of Japan’s oldest shrines. Uniquely, it has no main hall, as the sacred object is Mt. Miwa itself. Guests learn about ancient Shinto practices, mythology, and mountain worship. Hasedera Temple, known as the “Temple of Flowers,” features seasonal blooms, particularly peonies and hydrangeas. This tour combines ancient spirituality, natural beauty, and local culture for a unique day in Nara.
Mystical Nara: Omiwa Shrine & Hasedera Temple Tour
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Off the Beaten Path Nara: Murouji Temple & Hasedera Cultural Tour
This tour explores the spiritual heart of rural Nara through two of Japan’s most atmospheric temples. Surrounded by cedar forests and mountain landscapes, Murouji offers a rare glimpse into ancient mountain Buddhism and Shugendo practices, where women were historically allowed to worship. In contrast, Hasedera represents deep devotion to Kannon (the Goddess of Mercy), featuring a magnificent wooden corridor and breathtaking seasonal flowers such as peonies and hydrangeas.
Off the Beaten Path Nara: Murouji Temple & Hasedera Cultural Tour
Other Popular Tour Guides in Mie
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Masahisa M.
Lived in Chicago (5 years), Toronto (1 year), Singapore (2 years), Indonesia (4 years) and Birmingham, UK (11 years) to construct business platform, now retired after 40 years employment in Japan. Dynamic tour guide who develops many different ways along with rich experience overseas to entertain large or small tour groups. Enjoys the interaction with tour groups, very strong group presentation and communication skills, finds each guest question as an opportunity to learn anything new. Constantly learning information about each tour spot to enhance tours. Guided 9,581 guests all over the world across Japan as of June 30, 2026 since Feb 2015.
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Nori I.
I have lived in the US, UK, and India for approximately 20 years, and I’ve also traveled to about 30 countries. Living abroad for such a long time made me realize Japan’s value and sparked my interest in working as a translator/guide for foreigners. I’m truly passionate about introducing people to historical sites, authentic Japanese culture, and stunning natural spots that may not be widely known to people outside of Japan. There are countless places that I believe people would love. I am a certified English interpreter guide certified by Kyoto City, Uji City and Otsu City. Plus, I passed the Kyoto Tourism and Culture Exam (the 3rd level). Originally from Nagoya, I cover areas around the Kansai region including Kyoto, Shiga, Nara and Mie. I’m here to ensure your trip to Japan becomes an unforgettable memory. Looking forward to meeting you!
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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 !!
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