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Joined 2025
Maria A.
Available Areas
Okinawa Main Island (Living)
Languages
English, Japanese (Native)
Response Time
18 hours on average
Availability Updated
3 days ago
About Tour Guide Maria A.
Hai-tai! Welcome to Okinawa!
I’m Maria, a local Okinawan guide based in Shuri.
I don’t just show you Okinawa. I help you understand the stories behind it, experience it like a local, and enjoy the day your way.
Okinawa is more than beautiful beaches and tropical scenery. Behind the places you visit are stories of the Ryukyu Kingdom, sacred traditions, local food, island life, and the many cultures that shaped Okinawa into what it is today.
I love bringing those stories to life in a way that is easy to understand, relaxed, and fun. Instead of simply giving you facts, I want you to understand why Okinawa is the way it is.
Whether you’re interested in Ryukyu history, Shuri, sacred islands, local food, hidden spots, nature, Okinawan culture, nightlife, or simply want to experience something beyond the usual tourist route, tell me what you’re curious about and I’ll shape the experience around you.
I’m also happy to adapt when plans change. Okinawa’s weather can be unpredictable, but that doesn’t mean your day has to be. We can adjust the itinerary and still make the most of your time here.
Most importantly, I want our time together to feel natural. Ask questions, take your time, try something unexpected, or simply enjoy a good conversation. You don’t have to follow a rigid schedule to have a great Okinawa experience.
Come as a visitor. Leave feeling that you’ve truly met Okinawa.
Tours
All tours can be customized for you. Send me a message with your requests!
Categories
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Shuri Castle & Ryukyu Photo Experience: Explore, Learn & Capture Okinawa
See Shuri Castle beyond the postcard. Explore the former royal capital of the Ryukyu Kingdom with a local Okinawan guide, while a local photographer captures natural moments of your journey. This tour is perfect for… * Couples who want beautiful travel photos * Families visiting Okinawa * First-time visitors who want to understand Okinawa * Travelers who want Instagram-worthy photos * Anyone interested in the Ryukyu Kingdom and Okinawan culture
Shuri Castle & Ryukyu Photo Experience: Explore, Learn & Capture Okinawa
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Okinawa After Dark: Awamori, Local Bars & Hidden Nightlife
A deeper dive into Okinawa’s drinks and nightlife for travelers who love good drinks! If you love discovering local drinks when you travel, this is the Okinawa nightlife experience for you. Spend four hours exploring Naha after dark with a local guide, discovering Okinawan spirits, local food, intimate bars, and the drinking culture that makes Okinawa different from the rest of Japan. This experience is designed for travelers who enjoy alcohol and want more than a standard tourist bar crawl.
Okinawa After Dark: Awamori, Local Bars & Hidden Nightlife
Reviews
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Jack T.
“Great tour for any kind of weather!”
We were unsure if the weather would allow for an outdoor tour so Maria put together a fantastic day of history, culture and food! We explored the Okinawa museum and learned of their history and culture and also went to Shuri Castle that was still partially under reconstruction from a 2019 fire. Near the castle is a mausoleum for Okinawa's kings and queens as well, it was all very cool to see and learn about it all! Afterwards we went to Tsukaya, an Okinawan obanzai restaurant that featured many of Okinawa's best dishes in small plate form so you get a little of everything. If you are visiting Okinawa I must recommend this place to taste their delicious homemade dishes that they will even substitute for dietary restrictions. After much walking on my Japan exploration, my back was feeling some pain so Maria even went above and beyond to not only accommodate some rest into the day but also even recommended her own Osteopathic professional to help me. I was very grateful for the care she displayed in my well-being and overall enjoyment on our tour! 10/5 stars!!!
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Maria A.
Thank you so much for your wonderful review and for spending such a memorable day with me! I’m so glad we were able to make the most of the day despite the uncertain weather. Exploring Okinawa’s history and culture, visiting Shuri Castle, and enjoying a variety of homemade Okinawan dishes at Tsukaya together made it a really special day for me too. Most importantly, I’m happy I could help make you feel more comfortable when your back was hurting. Your well-being and enjoyment are always important to me, and I hope you are feeling much better now! Thank you again for trusting me with your Okinawa experience. I hope you take home many wonderful memories from Japan, and I would be delighted to see you again in Okinawa someday!
Other Popular Tour Guides in Okinawa Main Island
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Tokumitsu A.
Hello! Thank you for visiting my profile. I am a licensed national guide interpreter based in Okinawa, Japan. I enjoy introducing visitors to the unique culture, history, and daily life of Okinawa beyond the typical tourist attractions. My goal is not only to show you famous sights, but also to help you experience Okinawa from a local perspective. Whether you are interested in history, traditional culture, local food, nature, or hidden gems, I would be happy to create a memorable experience for you. I have a strong interest in language and cross-cultural communication, and I enjoy meeting people from around the world. I strive to provide friendly, flexible, and informative tours tailored to each guest's interests. I look forward to helping you discover the beauty and charm of Okinawa! See you soon in Okinawa!
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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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