Naoshima Art Island in 1 Day Tour — Guide Sam

The guests were visitors from Europe. From the very beginning, it was a series of surprises. Originally the guests had planned to stay at a hotel in Uno, then changed to a hotel in Naoshima, and then changed again to a hotel in Uno, so there was even a possibility that we might not have been able to meet each other if things had gone slightly differently. Initially the guests had requested rental bicycles, and although the weather was fine on the day and I informed them that bicycles were available, they changed their preference to walking instead. Then, when I suggested that the Chichu Art Museum, which we had almost given up on, might still be bookable on the same day, a reservation was made right there on a smartphone, and we were able to secure a 3:30 slot, which was truly delightful. I felt the importance of not giving up and giving things a try. The guests were deeply impressed by the group of artworks in the Honmura district. After successfully viewing both the Benesse House Museum and the Chichu Art Museum, the guests boldly decided to hike back from the Chichu Art Museum all the way to Miyanoura Port, so we walked through the mountains. The guests had remarkable physical strength and energy, which was overwhelming. The hike was wonderful, allowing us to enjoy scenery that we would not have noticed from the bus. And on our way back, we were able to raise a toast to celebrate the success of the day's tour.

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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.