About Tour Guide Sara E.

“Incredible”

Sara was an amazing guide. It started with Sara helping us to customize a tour based on what we told her we were interested in. We really appreciated the care and sensitivity she brough to the planning process, which continued in the period between setting on a plan and the tour. Sarah helped us arrange for a taxi from the hotel to our meeting site and was in regular communication with us as the tour date approached. We had not been to Okinawa before, and it felt like we had a friend to help us navigate this new place. Sarah's knowledge of the Shuri Castle and Okinawa is vast, and she is deeply connected and rooted in Okinawa. It felt like we were with an "insider" who could share not only the notable information that is commonly shared on tours, but also finer points that meant a lot to us to learn about. Throughout the day, we had a genuine back and forth dialog and connection. In addition to the Shuri castle visit, a highlight of the day was spending time at a pottery studio and an antique store that has been open for decades. We got to meet the potter and his extended family, including his wife whose father and uncle founded the studio. We also got to meet and get to know the antique store shopkeeper who opened the antique store with her husband. We made wonderful connections, all possible because of Sarah's connections with the people we visited, her incredible translation skills and her dedication to sharing her beloved Okinawa with us. Sarah is a generous person and a wonderful guide. I can't imagine there is a better guide for Okinawa.

Sara E.

(2 reviews)

Thank you for your kind review, Bill! I am delighted that you enjoyed your experience at Shuri Castle. I am passionate about sharing my love for the castle, from its rich history and impressive restoration work to the special bonds I have formed with its dedicated staff. I am delighted that you appreciated the finer details of the castle, as well as the special connection we made. My friend, the chief potter, enjoyed sharing his craft with you and appreciated your genuine interest in hearing his stories. My friend who owns the pottery and antique store was thrilled to meet you and Sarah — that's an understatement! She said that the unique, sustainable necklace made by her eldest son, featuring a pottery fragment by the former Living National Treasure Jiro Kinjo, looked stunning on Sarah. She was also delighted that you fell in love with the unique 'kara kara' set, which most locals don't even have. I will cherish the memories of our day spent discovering the depths of Ryukuan and Okinawan culture together. With deep gratitude, Sara

“An Unforgettable Journey into the Heart of Okinawa with Sara”

f you are looking for a standard tourist tour, look elsewhere. To experience the soul of the Ryukyu Kingdom, Sara is incomparable. We spent an extraordinary day with her—a perfect balance between grand history and the charm of daily Okinawan life. Sara’s insights into the reconstruction of Shuri Castle aren't just facts from a textbook. Her warmth and politeness are unmatched, not just toward us, but toward everyone we encountered. It was a joy to see her "rapport" in action; she is clearly deeply respected by the castle staff and local masters. The Pottery Experience was another highlight. Thanks to Sara’s personal friendships with the artisans, we weren't just observers—we felt like welcomed guests. Seeing the "akae" technique up close and understanding the passion behind the Tsuboya tradition was moving. Walking the "cobblestone" streets with Sara felt like walking through time. Our culinary journey was just as authentic. Sara took us to the Makishi Public Market, where the fresh meat and seafood was a feast for the eyes. Another highlight was visiting a small, traditional Izakaya (pub). We dived deep into Japanese food culture, trying delicacies like gizzard, crispy chicken skin, and handmade fish balls (if I remember correctly—there was so much to take in!). It was the "real deal"! We enjoyed drinks like the iconic Orion Beer, Cassis Beer, and Mango Sours. It’s different from German beer, but incredibly refreshing and typical for Okinawa. Sara was incredibly flexible, tailoring the pace to our interests. Beyond her expertise, her genuine kindness stayed with us. We shared so much, and we truly hope she enjoyed our time together as much as we did and perhaps even learned a little something from us in return! She didn't just show us Okinawa; she invited us into its story. We left with a deep appreciation for the culture and a new friend in Sara. Do not miss the chance to book a tour with her!

Sara E.

(2 reviews)

Dear Mr. Burkhard, Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your very kind review. I am so happy that you enjoyed our day together as much as I did! I am delighted to hear that you enjoyed your experience at Shuri Castle. As you probably felt, sharing my love for the castle is my passion - from its incredible history and amazing restoration work to facilitating rapport with its friendly staff. My chief potter friend was so thrilled to meet you - his first time to meet guests from Germany! He enjoyed sharing his stories with you especially the "akae" technique. Makishi Public Market is a wonderful spot both for photography and cultural immersion. Plus it has wonderful little Okinawan bites! You and Ilka were so open to trying everything Okinawan - no hesitation or fears at all at the izakaya. You really became a local here in Naha! I absolutely enjoyed our time together - I will treasure it forever. I am excited to see you again so we can see the restored Shuri Castle together! With deep gratitude, Sara