Okayama Customized Private Tour in 1 Day — Guide Sam

Title: What's a Private Day Tour of Kurashiki and Okayama Like? A Licensed Guide's Report

The guests were visitors from North America. I picked them up at an accommodation in the Nakasho area of Kurashiki, which was an unusual starting point, so I asked why they had chosen to stay there. They explained that they were part of a larger group tour, and since today was a free day, they had broken away from the group to take this private tour. When I listened further, I learned that one of the guests had suddenly developed a urinary tract problem two days earlier, and thanks to the quick thinking of the accompanying through-guide from Tokyo, they had been able to see a doctor at a clinic in Kurashiki and receive examination and medication, which got them through it. This made me recognize the importance of emergency response, and I felt that such situations are where a guide's true value is tested.

Today, the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter was holding various autumn events, and it was especially crowded with many tourists and full of activity. Among other things, they mentioned how fortunate it was that the Ohashi House, which usually charges admission, was free. Next we headed into Okayama City, starting at Nishigawa Green Belt Park, and then went to the regular stops of Okayama Korakuen Garden and Okayama Castle. At Okayama Korakuen Garden, they were wrapping the pine trees with straw mats, an autumn tradition, and the guests watched with great interest. They purchased a rare plum jam produced within the garden. At Okayama Castle, they took an interest in the castle's atmosphere, which differs from that of Hiroshima Castle, and enjoyed the charm of the castle town. We did not have time to visit the Bizen ware workshop in the area around the castle.

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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.