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Travel Tips

Interpreter Guides

Interpreter Guides

It is very beneficial to have an interpreter guide with specialized knowledge and a local background guide you when traveling in Kyoto. The overall quality of sightseeing is improved by bringing them along as their expertise is invaluable in gaining a better understanding of this city's history and culture. Their presence lets you experience Kyoto not only as a sightseeing tourist, but also as a guest who is invited to learn more about it from the inside.

Here are some of the benefits you can enjoy if you decide to hire an interpreter guide:

1. Learning about history and culture

Kyoto is home to a large number of temples, shrines and historical sites. Each location has its own historical background and a story to tell. An interpreter guide can provide detailed information that would not be included in regular sightseeing tours, so you can fully appreciate the unique charm of every place.

2. Overcoming language barriers

For tourists visiting from overseas, it can be difficult to understand signs and explanations written in Japanese. Interpreter guides are polyglots that can help you decipher them and answer your questions in a language you can understand.

3. Receiving recommendations for local experiences

Interpreter guides are knowledgeable about hidden attractions and restaurants that locals like to visit. They can also help their customers in arranging cultural experiences unique to Kyoto, such as a tea ceremony experience or making traditional Japanese sweets.

4. Smooth and efficient sightseeing planning

Kyoto offers its visitors many attractions, so proper planning is needed in order to experience them efficiently. Interpreter guides will suggest a schedule best suited to the needs of the tourist and give advice on arranging transportation and avoiding crowds. Receiving their help allows you to make the most of your limited time.

5. Deepening your understanding of Japanese etiquette and culture

It is important to follow the guidelines for tourists etiquette in Kyoto. The interpreter guide explains the manners and customs that are unique to Japan and support tourists in smoothly integrating into the local culture.

Kyoto City Visitors Host

Showing around

Kyoto Certified Interpreter Guides (Kyoto City Visitors Hosts) are specialist interpreter guides with certification from Kyoto, Uji, and Otsu cities. From numerous applicants, we select only those with advanced language and hospitality skills to join our ranks. Full certification is possible after about half a year of training, with an average of 50 guides certified per year.

In addition to having an accommodating attitude and a charming personality, our specialist interpreter guides offer specialized knowledge and expertise regarding Kyoto. Armed with information on not only history, culture, and traditional industries but also all of Kyoto’s other charms—from its products to the residents and their lifestyles—Kyoto City Visitors Hosts are the perfect trip companion for all travelers.

See the page linked below for details:

Kyoto City Visitors Host

Other Guides

In addition to Kyoto City Visitors Hosts, there are also other interpreter guides that work privately. To learn more, please refer to the following list of guides recommended by the Kyoto City Tourism Association:

Other Guides

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