Hello! My name is Hiromi, an experienced English-speaking tour guide based in Tsuruoka City, Yamagata Prefecture, in the heart of Japan’s Tohoku region.
Tsuruoka is known as the gateway to the sacred Dewa Sanzan mountains, one of Japan’s most important spiritual landscapes.
Having guided many international visitors along Mt. Haguro’s ancient cedar-lined route and its 2,446 stone steps, I enjoy bringing the mountain’s stories to life. Beyond its beautiful scenery, Mt. Haguro is filled with symbols, traditions, and beliefs that many visitors would otherwise miss. My goal is to help you understand not only what you are seeing, but also why this sacred mountain has inspired pilgrims for centuries.
In addition to the Dewa Sanzan, I can introduce you to other unique aspects of Tsuruoka and the wider Tohoku region, including sake breweries, local food culture, traditional crafts, and hidden places that locals have treasured for generations.
As a passionate traveler myself, I believe that the most memorable journeys come from connecting with local people and discovering the stories behind a destination. I would be delighted to help make your visit to Tsuruoka and Tohoku both meaningful and unforgettable.
I look forward to welcoming you to this special corner of Japan!
