No fixed itinerary had been set for the day, so I guided while checking their requests along the way, and I was relieved to see that everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. Since the guests wanted to take many photos and experience the atmosphere of each place firsthand, I kept verbal explanations to a minimum. However, because posters for a morning drama series were displayed here and there in Matsue, I shared some information about the drama, and the guests responded by telling me that a drama featuring Japanese and Western protagonists had once been very popular in their home region, which made for a lively conversation. As their lunch the previous day had not met their expectations, they requested something local, so I guided them to an izakaya restaurant inside Matsue Station that was open during lunch hours, and everyone enjoyed the meal. At the end, I let them know where to catch a taxi and we said our goodbyes.

Click here for more details: Matsue Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide

Tour Report by Chie

Hi, my name is Chie, and I’m a local guide in the eastern region of Shimane Prefecture.
Located on the Sea of Japan on the western side of Japan’s main island, Honshu, Shimane is a lesser-known prefecture, yet it is a special place where many stories that represent the very roots of Japan still remain vividly.
As your guide, I would love to show you the serene beauty of rural landscapes that capture Japan’s traditional countryside, and introduce you to the unique history and culture found nowhere else, including ancient myths that have long inspired Japanese values and traditions, and the tatara iron-making heritage, which not only served as a spiritual foundation of Japanese craftsmanship but also shaped distinctive landscapes and the lives of local communities that can still be seen today.
I would be delighted to help you experience its traditional culture and fully feel the essence of Japan during your visit.