Okayama Customized Private Tour in 1 Day — Guide Sam

What's a Private One-Day Tour of Okayama and Kurashiki Like? A Licensed Guide's Report

The guests were visiting from North America. I learned that they were involved in producing Japanese sake, which greatly surprised me, and this made me reflect on how essential it is to be able to talk about sake in English. Our sightseeing started at Okayama Korakuen Garden, where we were able to take our time exploring, and the beauty of the garden seemed to leave a strong impression. Next we visited Okayama Castle, where they seemed to make many cultural discoveries as well. After that, they wished to have lunch, and although I was unsure where to take them, I guided them to "Okabe," a restaurant I had recommended before that specializes in tofu and yuba cuisine. They were delighted, saying it was "very delicious and healthy." Some of the guests enjoyed shopping and looked for clothing and other items. We then moved on to Kurashiki for a busy round of sightseeing, visiting the Ohara Museum of Art, Kurashiki Ivy Square, and the Kurashiki Monogatarikan, and finally climbing up to Achi Shrine, slightly out of breath, to admire Japan's oldest wisteria, which had reached its perfect season. We then returned to Okayama, and after the tour ended, as a small gesture of goodwill, they enjoyed sake and beer from the famous Miyashita Sake Brewery in Okayama. They were a warm and gentle group, and I too was able to spend a very fulfilling time.

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Tour Report by Sam

My name is Susumu Hiramatsu. I am a national government licensed guide interpreter. I became a guide interpreter in 1992. My educational background started with a BA in law, then an MA in English language education, and completed a doctoral course without a degree in English language teaching. My occupational career began with a bank officer, then shifted to a translation and interpretation company, finally became a freelance translator, interpreter, and college teacher. I handle conference interpretation, namely simultaneous interpretation. As for the guide interpreter, my interest covers wide areas including politics and business, but I deem cultural aspects to be fundamental. I am always encouraging myself to be filled with Japanese hospitality.