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About
Two Licensed Guides.
One Shared Vision Since 2024.
OMAKASE is intentionally small by design. Founded by Hitomi and Miyuki, we personally lead most of our journeys, bringing the spirit of 和敬清寂 — harmony, respect, purity, and tranquillity — into every experience.
We believe that meaningful travel begins with respect: for local communities, for artisans and their craft, and for the living traditions that shape Japan today. Every journey is thoughtfully tailored to your pace, interests, and curiosity. Rather than following a fixed itinerary, we take the time to create an experience that feels uniquely yours.
Simply tell us how you wish to travel. We’ll take care of the rest.
The credential
What a licence
actually costs to get.
The national guide-interpreter licence is administered by the Japan Tourism Agency. Candidates sit written papers in a foreign language, in Japanese history, in geography, and in general culture — then an oral interview conducted in the working language. Fewer than one in ten people who sit it pass.
Since 2018, none of that has been required in order to be paid to guide visitors in Japan. The title is protected; the work is not. Which means the honest question to ask any operator here is not “are your guides good” but “are your guides licensed, and what are the numbers.”
Ours are below. You can check them.
Who you would be travelling with
The people who answer your email.
Hitomi
Co-founder · Licensed guide interpreter
Hitomi handles most first-time visitors, and guests write about the same two things afterwards: that she asked what they wanted before they landed, and that she made sure they could find their own way home before she said goodbye.
National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter, English — EN06299
Certified Domestic Travel Service Supervisor — No. 29-49-908
Miyuki
Co-founder · Licensed guide interpreter · SAKE Diploma
Miyuki guides in English and Chinese. As a dedicated sake aficionado, competition judge, and SAKE Diploma holder, brewery days are entirely her domain. With a Sichuan chef husband at home, her culinary radar is always sharp. She is also the go-to guide when guests are looking for a rare Tokyo day completely away from the crowds, which takes some doing.
National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter, English — EN05385
National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter, Chinese — CH00922
Certified Travel Service Provision Supervisor — No. 02-24-5539
SAKE Diploma — No. 3607
Koichi
Administration and legal
Koichi is a certified administrative scrivener who also handles accounting and bookkeeping as a true multi-player, keeping the paperwork side of things in order — from registrations and contracts to insurance. Behind the scenes, he also holds down the fort by keeping our two wild, runaway co-founders in check. You will likely never cross paths with him.
Certified Administrative Scrivener (gyoseishoshi)
Our guides
Guests ask for these
people by name.
Hitomi
Tokyo, Nagoya, Kamakura
With deep expertise in traditional arts like iaido, tea ceremony, and flower arrangement, Hitomi brings Japanese history and vibrant local culture to life. Guests love her warm personality and the fascinating stories she shares at every stop.
Miyuki
Tokyo, Nikko, Nagano
A certified Sake Sommelier and judge for sake competitions, Miyuki specializes in uncovering off-the-beaten-path local gems. Renowned for her deeply knowledgeable, story-rich guiding, her meticulous care and expertise ensure an unforgettable journey.
Kaz
Tokyo, Hiroshima
Combining a STEM background with a pro eye for photography, Kaz offers smart, fascinating tours in Tokyo and Hiroshima. Enjoy geeky-yet-accessible insights into history, science, and local crafts—plus professional-quality photos of your journey.
Hiro
Tokyo, Hakone
From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the relaxing hot springs of Hakone, Hiro creates the ultimate blend of adventure and relaxation. His cheerful energy makes every tour feel like exploring with an old friend.
Chikako
Kanazawa, Shirakawa-go
Specializing in the traditional charm of Kanazawa and the scenic heritage of Shirakawa-go, Chikako immerses guests in Japan’s timeless beauty. Because when it comes to local insights, leaving it to a true local expert is always the best choice! Her passion for local craftsmanship shines through every experience.
Yoko
Kyoto, Osaka, Nara
Yoko is a Kansai expert who brings the cultural heartlands of Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara to life. From graceful hospitality and deep local connections to leading unforgettable ‘Kuidaore’ (eat-until-you-drop) food tours in Osaka, she offers guests an authentic window into traditional Japan.
Yumiko
Kyoto, Osaka, Nara
With a gentle smile, a wealth of knowledge, and a special knack for connecting with children, Yumiko guides travelers through Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara. Renowned for her meticulous attention to detail and dependable nature, she excels at helping guests discover hidden gems beyond the typical guidebooks.
Miho
Kyoto, Osaka, Nara
Miho’s deep appreciation for Kansai’s heritage transforms tours in Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara into magical cultural experiences. Guests praise her attention to detail and ability to connect with travelers of all ages.
Oki
Kyoto, Osaka, Himeji, Hiroshima
Covering an impressive route from Kansai to Hiroshima, Oki offers deep historical insights and smooth, seamless travel. Undeniably one of the hardest-working and most studious guides you’ll ever meet, his dynamic yet calming presence makes him an absolute favorite for multi-city adventures.
Atsuko
Hiroshima
As a proud local resident of Hiroshima, Atsuko shares the city’s powerful history and vibrant spirit with profound grace and empathy. Her heartfelt guidance leaves every visitor with a deep and lasting appreciation for the city.
The part guests write about most
A Seamless Beginning:
Mastering Tokyo’s Transit from Day One
It is not in any brochure and it is the single most repeated line in our reviews.
Shinjuku Station has over two hundred exits, handles more than 2.7 million passengers daily, and holds the Guinness World Record as the busiest railway station on earth — known to humble even the most seasoned global travellers. Rather than leaving you to figure it out, we walk you through it on day one — securing your IC cards, handling long-distance ticketing at the counter, and ensuring you navigate the city with absolute confidence before we part ways.
This is why our guests so often recommend booking us on day one or two rather than at the end of their stay. It transforms the entire rhythm of the journey.
As your personal assistant, we are here to support every step of your journey moving forward.
Registered details
- Company
- OMAKASE LLC （合同会社OMAKASE）
- Address
- 201, 2-15-1 Higashigaoka, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 152-0021, Japan
- Travel services arrangement business
- Tokyo Metropolitan Governor Registration No. 20774, 9 January 2025
- Japan corporate number
- 7011003020358
- Founded
- 2024
- info@omakase.page