/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/113758/d47e8287-6366-4b77-9a2d-26a1100cdd7b.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/113758/dba95083-ef84-4e82-ad46-7f0bec45f0f7.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/113758/ed4d7e96-c4b4-4483-98cc-9aef2ab9e8c8.jpeg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/113758/724459bb-18ad-43c0-8e2f-6b10fca229fe.png)
Joined 2026
Kenji K.
Available Areas
Toyama (Living), Ishikawa, Kanazawa, Shirakawago, Takayama
Languages
English, Japanese (Native)
Availability Updated
4 days ago
About Tour Guide 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!
Important
I am generally available on weekdays and Saturdays. Weekdays are preferred, but I am also happy to accept weekend bookings when possible, especially with advance notice. Sundays are generally reserved for family time. I am flexible and will do my best to accommodate travelers' schedules.
Tours
All tours can be customized for you. Send me a message with your requests!
Categories
/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/categories/48/highlights-white.svg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/26171/f7056eb2-70ee-458b-b071-b20f17e110e1.jpeg)
Other Popular Tour Guides in Toyama
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/78234/d3ab37ff-2a14-4498-a94c-66aef50dc86f.png)
Naoto K.
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
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/59427/7b7da693-8232-4cc9-a436-cc558ef3ae18.png)
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.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/107413/be43a9c1-feec-49ea-aeab-d4cfcce23ec2.png)
Nozomi A.
Hello! My name is Nozomi. I am a Regional Licensed Guide Interpreter based in Toyama, covering the beautiful Hokuriku area. I am a unique blend of an outdoor enthusiast and a cultural researcher. For years, I have studied cultural anthropology and traditional crafts, with a deep interest in Japanese folklore and kimono culture. At the same time, my heart belongs to the mountains. I love trekking, hiking, skiing, and backcountry skiing. To me, Hokuriku is the ultimate destination because it offers the best of both worlds. When we hit the trails, I love engaging all five senses to truly connect with nature. I can accommodate activities ranging from beginner levels—using transport to enjoy the views—up to intermediate treks involving 2 hours of sweaty, active hiking. When we explore the towns, I love introducing you to local artisans who use centuries-old techniques to create modern art. My goal is for you to deepen your understanding of Japanese culture through our journey together. One of my favorite parts of guiding is chatting with guests to discover the fascinating cultural similarities and differences between our worlds. Whether you want to move your body in the great outdoors or enrich your mind through living traditions, I am excited to share my dual passions and show you the many faces of our region!
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/103537/5f88c314-8f5a-4b67-b819-d7fe46fa2895.png)