Noah

Hello! My name is Naoto, and I am from Mie Prefecture. Thank you very much for reading my profile.
In 2026, I obtained the national qualification of National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter, the official license for professional tour guides in Japan. In addition, in 2025 I participated in a tourism guide training program organized by the Mie Prefectural Government. During this program, I practiced guiding at important historical sites such as Iga Ueno and Ise Grand Shrine and received a completion certificate. Through this training, I developed a solid understanding of Japanese history and culture, as well as practical skills in guiding visitors and managing tour itineraries.
I spent my university years in Kyoto, one of the most historic cities in Japan. Living in Kyoto allowed me to experience traditional culture and historical heritage on a daily basis. I also had the opportunity to study abroad, first in Canada for language study and later as an exchange student at a university in New Zealand. These international experiences helped me develop a global perspective and a strong interest in meeting people from different cultural backgrounds. In terms of English proficiency, I have passed EIKEN Grade 1 and achieved a TOEIC score of 925. At university, I majored in law and international relations, so I also enjoy discussing global politics, history, and economics with guests from around the world.
I was born and raised in the Iga region, a mountainous area located between Mie Prefecture and Nara Prefecture. This area is widely known as the birthplace of the ninja. However, the real ninja were quite different from the ones often depicted in anime or movies. Historically, they were highly skilled specialists in intelligence gathering, strategy, and survival. I enjoy sharing the fascinating stories behind the “real ninja” and the historical background of this region.
Another area that I know well is the eastern part of Nara Prefecture, which is located close to my hometown. Compared with famous tourist destinations such as Kyoto or Osaka, this region receives relatively few international visitors. However, it preserves a very authentic atmosphere of traditional Japan, with mountains, small villages, and historic religious sites.
For example, one of the famous temples in this region is Murō-ji, often called “Nyonin Kōya,” meaning “Kōyasan for women,” because women were historically allowed to worship there when they were not permitted to enter Mount Kōya. The temple is beautifully located in the mountains and is known for its elegant five-story pagoda.
Another remarkable place is Ōmiwa Shrine, which is sometimes said to be one of the oldest shrines in Japan. Unlike most shrines, it does not have a main sanctuary building because the sacred object of worship is the mountain itself, Mount Miwa. Visiting this shrine offers a fascinating opportunity to learn about ancient Japanese beliefs and the origins of Shinto.
I am particularly familiar with the shrines and temples in this region, so please feel free to ask me anything about Japanese mythology, the legends of the gods, or the relationship between Shinto and Buddhism.
I truly enjoy introducing visitors to the history, culture, and hidden beauty of Japan, and I look forward to sharing these experiences with you.