Joined 2018
Hugh C.
Available Areas
Hiroshima (Living), Kagawa, Okayama, Shimane
Languages
English (Native), Japanese
Response Time
5 hours on average
Availability Updated
1 day ago
Tour Categories
About Tour Guide Hugh C.
Hi!
Thanks for reviewing my profile.
I am Australian, from Sydney originally but my life with Japan and its culture and history spans 30 odd years and I have been a Hiroshima resident for 18 of those 30 years.
I joined GoWithGuide just recently but be assured I have led many tours in Hiroshima and more widely throughout metropolitan and regional Japan, sharing conversations about the unique society, its fascinating culture and history. I also have written several tourism blogs for inbound tour companies and also the Hiroshima Prefectural Tourism Bureau.
I speak fluent Japanese and I have immersed myself in the experience of living here in modern and traditional culture and spent many years studying martial arts Aikido and Iaido. I also have a strong interest in Buddhist teachings. My Japanese calligraphy work over the years has been received recognition and several awards and commissions both in Japan and elsewhere.
I'm looking forward to spending a great experience sharing the culture and history of Hiroshima with you.
Tours
All tours can be customized for you. Send me a message with your requests!
A Canny Day in Hiroshima
The overall plan for a day in Hiroshima: Join me on a very memorable stroll through the history and culture of the "shrine island", designated one of the three most scenic sites in Japan and a World Heritage SIte, before returning to Central Hiroshima to tour Peace Memorial Park, it monuments and museums or, if desired, I am happy to discuss customising your tour to include other attractions.
Hiroshima Classical Walking Tour
A lovely relaxed half-day tour where we’ll share a comfortable three-stage walking tour as we stroll through Hiroshima’s classical Japanese landscaped gardens. Visit Hiroshima Castle and explore the interior Museum, before a tour of the fascinating modern history of Hiroshima including the A-Bomb Dome, and Peace Memorial Park.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Hiroshima's History
An in-depth tour of the fascinating history of Hiroshima including the A-Bomb Dome, and the monuments and museum in Peace Memorial Park, followed by lunch as per what might be your available preference but I recommend Hiroshima okonomiyaki, a scrumptious layered savoury pancake.
Hiroshima - The Shrine Island
Join me on a very memorable stroll through its ancient history - the "shrine island" Miyajima, a designated World Heritage Site. We'll get photos of the giant sentinal Torii Gate then visit the ancient Itsukushima Shrine also Daishoin Temple an equally important religious site and the stark mysteriously austere Senjokaku hall and adjacent Five-Story Pagoda. Enjoy an aerial gondola ride to some spectacular views and dine of fresh local fare.
Naoshima Art Island Excursion Day Tour
This is a wonderful day exploring the art on Naoshima, one of three islands creating a contemporary art experience set amidst the rice fields and mountains on the island and merging with the rural setting in the surrounding Seto Inland Sea. It features architecture by Tadao Ando. We will ferry from Uno Port to Naoshima and travel by local bus, or if you would like, hire bicycles and cycle around to visit the Chichu Art Museum and other art project installations in the town.
Craft Beer Fest and Tavern Crawl Hiroshima
We will navigate a 3-hour stroll through the back streets of the entertainment district of Hiroshima trying excellent craft beers and sake and stopping off at bars, pubs, and an izakaya, a traditional drinking house, where locals gather with friends and colleagues to enjoy mouth-watering, small-plate dishes cooked don the grill before your eyes along with free-flowing drinks.
Reviews
“Hiroshima Pub Crawl”
We had an absolutely fantastic time on the pub crawl! The event was so well-organized, and Hugh did an amazing job of keeping the energy high and everyone engaged. Each stop had a great vibe, with a perfect mix of lively atmospheres and unique drink selections. It was clear Hugh had researched the venues beforehand, as each spot offered something special and felt thoughtfully chosen to enhance the experience. It was a great way to meet people from all over and enjoy the local nightlife without worrying about where to go next. The restaurant we went to for dinner was an experience inside of an experience. We’ll definitely be doing this again next time we're in town! Thanks, Hugh!
Hugh C.
No, no. Thank YOU, Dan for choosing to spend your valuable time with me!
“A Canny Day in Hiroshima”
We had an incredible day of sightseeing with Hugh, whose vast knowledge of Japan and engaging storytelling made our visit to Miyajima and Hiroshima truly memorable. He was not only entertaining but also exceptionally helpful, always willing to answer our questions and provide insights. Hugh’s passion for sharing the culture and history of Japan was evident throughout the tour, making every stop feel meaningful and unique. His approachable and friendly demeanor put both of us at ease, and we never felt rushed as he tailored the experience to suit our interests. The okonomiyaki restaurant he took us to for lunch was an experience that a first-time visitor would never know existed. He even went above and beyond, at the end of our tour he walked us to the airport limo station and guided us through purchasing tickets. It was such an inspiring and seamless experience—if we ever return to the area, we wouldn’t hesitate to book with him again. Thanks, Hugh!
Hugh C.
Thanks Dan, it was my pleasure but this appreciation truly is the reward and inspires attention to the experience.
“Thank you, Hugh!”
We were fortunate to spend October 25th of this year with Hugh on a one-day tour of Naoshima. Not only did he guide us through museums and art installations, but he also introduced us to the island’s lesser-known corners and took us to the best local coffee spots.Hugh was incredibly accommodating, ensuring our day trip was comfortable and enjoyable. He went above and beyond, picking us up from our hotel in Okayama and dropping us off at the end of a long, fulfilling day.Having lived in Japan for decades, Hugh is deeply immersed in its culture. He has a fascinating life story and is an accomplished calligrapher, martial artist, painter, and overall intellectual. Our day with him was not only filled with art but also enriched by fascinating conversations and stories.Hugh had carefully planned our itinerary to ensure we made the most of our time on the island, and we are grateful for his thoughtful approach, especially since this was our only opportunity to experience Naoshima. If you're looking for a guide who speaks both English and Japanese, and who not only shares insightful information about exhibits but also offers a deep understanding of Japanese culture and customs, Hugh is an excellent choice. Be sure to book his time in advance!
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