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Joined 2025
Sara E.
Available Areas
Okinawa Main Island (Living)
Languages
English (Native), Japanese (Native)
Response Time
4 hours on average
Availability Updated
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About Tour Guide Sara E.
"Chuuganabira" or "Hello" as we say here in Shuri!
I'm Sara. My mother is Japanese from Nagasaki and my father is American from Pennsylvania. I spent my formative years between Japan and the U.S. giving me a naturally bicultural outlook and global sensibility.
I am a hospitality professional with over 35 years of experience in Japan’s international hotel and tourism industries having held senior positions with world-renowned hotels. I have also worked as a simultaneous interpreter for major Japanese organizations supporting large scale cultural and international events.
I relocated from Tokyo to Naha in 2003 because I totally fell in love with this beautiful port city during my travels - the warm friendly people, delicious local food, rich history and culture and most of all the breathtaking turquoise ocean and magnificent blue sky.
My passion is making people happy through "omotenashi" - the Japanese art of polite, thoughtful and respectful hospitality.
I specialize in Shuri Castle tours. I have insider access to Shuri Castle through my onsite research, a membership in the Shuri Castle Friendship Association and a strong connection with both the castle's staff and the Okinawa Churashima Foundation which operates the castle. I also have deep ties with the Sho royal family giving me unparalleled insights into the history and culture of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
I am looking forward to introducing you to the royal, majestic and fascinating world of Shuri!
Important
I can work from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Tours
All tours can be customized for you. Send me a message with your requests!
Categories
Reviews
Burkhard S.
“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!
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Sara E.
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
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Yuki H.
Hi, I’m Yuki from Okinawa! Born and raised here, I know the island not only as a destination, but as home. After spending 5 years living in Australia, I understand what international travelers look for — authenticity, connection, and comfort. As a local guide with one year of experience, I love sharing the real Okinawa beyond the typical tourist spots. I will guide you through history, culture, food, and everyday island life while making sure your day is smooth, comfortable, and fun. My goal is simple: not just to show you Okinawa, but to help you feel it. I look forward to meeting you and exploring together!
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Tateo U.
My name is Tateo. I am officially registerd English tour guide and introducing about Okinawa's history,culture, and nature.I am elderly person but have gone through lots of expericences that happened during US occupation after WW2. For the example, change of monetary system(US dollar to Yen),Change of traffic regulation(driving vehicle from right to left).The reversion of Okinawa to main land Japan was biggest historical event.The US administered Okinawa for 27 years. As a result, thing were Americanized in many aspects. Historically, Okinawa was once independent nation until 1872.During Kingdum era, Okinawa actively traded with China, South Asia Countries, Korea, and Japan. In the end, our culture is quite differ much from main land Japan. For instance, architectural technique, daily customs, and culture are also unique. Okinawa is the only prefecture belong to subtropical climate zone. Even winter time, it's neither hot nor cold. People can enjoy marine sport all through the year.Canoeing, Kayaking, Diving, and Snorkeling are popular. Besides, beatiful white sand beaches and attractive coastline are abundant. Green sea water and blue sky have been lured people from all over the world. Traditional music and dance are worth seeing. Please visit Okinawa and enjoy extraordinary trip. I will be looking forward to seeing you soon.
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Noriko Y.
Hi. I was a tour guide for Japanese speak in Japanese in main-land Japan around Tokyo. Now, I live in Okinawa for over ten years with my family. I wanted to be a tour guide for foreigners because I appreciate people's helps when I traveled around world. I traveled over seventy countries. I like traveling because I learn a lot from people who I meet. Finally, I got a certificate for being an English tour guide. I would like you to spend meaningful time in Okinawa. Okinawa has unique culture, they mixed Japanese and Chinese way, then, built up a new own culture. With limited time, I hope you enjoy seeing a lot and knowing a lot.
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