Hello, my name is Asako Baba. Please call me Asa. I live in Fukui, which is currently experiencing a surge in tourism. It’s a pleasure to meet you.
1. Why I decided to become a licensed tour guide:
With the extension of the Hokuriku Shinkansen, we are beginning to see an increase in foreign tourists visiting Fukui and the neighboring prefecture, Ishikawa. I want to contribute to developing these regions by using my English skills. I want to help foreign tourists experience the unique charms, rich nature, and culture that differ from the big cities, and to increase the number of people who become fans of Japan. Since there are still a few licensed tour guides in Fukui, I’m trying my best.
I also frequently visit Kyoto, so I would love to explain the famous shrines and temples in an easy-to-understand and enjoyable way, helping tourists create wonderful memories of their stay in Japan.
2. Affiliation: Member of the Fukui Prefecture Licensed Tour Guide Association (passed the guide exam in February 2024).
3. Areas of interest: Buddhism, Shinto, Japanese history and culture, Japanese cuisine, and education.
4. Places I particularly want to guide:
Eiheiji Temple in Fukui, the head temple of all Zen Buddhism temples in Japan (I would like to introduce Zazen Meditation and Zen concepts in an enjoyable and easy-to-understand way).
The Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum, is one of the world’s top three dinosaur museums (especially for families with children).
The ruins of the Asakura Samurai Clan, date back to the 14th century. And Heisenji Temple, a historic site and famous for its beautiful moss garden.
The charm of Fukui’s fresh and delicious cuisine, including the famous Echizen crab in winter.
In Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, cultural and historical spots such as Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle, the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Higashi Chaya District, Omicho Market, etc.
In Kyoto, famous and historical spots and temples such as Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), Fushimi Inari Taisha, and Kiyomizu Temple, etc.
5. Hobbies:
Traveling (I’ve taken week-long car trips through Hokkaido, Tohoku, Shikoku, Kyoto/Nara, Kyushu, Sado, the Oki Islands, around Mount Fuji, and Shimane Prefecture. And I’ve experienced the Shikoku Pilgrimage in a two-week car trip. I also frequently travel by train to Tokyo and Kyoto.
Watercolor painting, vegetable gardens, haiku, and senryu (the shortest poem in the world).
6. Work experience: Primarily a junior high school English teacher, with experience teaching at elementary schools as well. After retirement, I worked as a part-time English teacher at a high school.
7 Personality:
I believe I have a strong sense of adventure and curiosity. Due to my profession, I am accustomed to speaking in front of people. I love meeting new people including children and am good at communicating with others.
8 Guiding Experience:
– Guiding cruise ship passengers at Tsuruga Port in Fukui Prefecture.
– In Kyoto, volunteer guide at major temples and shrines such as Kinkaku-ji temple, Fushimi Inari Shrine, etc.
– In Fukui, Volunteer guide (Eiheiji Temple, at the World Frisbee Championships, etc.)