Chinese travelers to Japan has dramatically increased since the Japanese government eased visa requirements in July. We were used to seeing them in a group tour, but young couples and families enjoy their unique tour these days. That is a good chance for both travelers and locals to communicate and know their cultures. Kansai area, as an ancient capital, has many historical heritages that shows you how China had a great influence on the development of Japan. We hope you enjoy in Kansai with our Volunteer Guides. If you speak English, it's easy.

Volunteer tour guide

If you are interested in private and relaxed tour experiences in Japan, why not inquire about free guide services in Kyoto? Find your personal tour guide in the Volunteer Guide page, where 50 friendly guides are available to show you around.

As a registered good-will tour guide, I regularly lead tours in and around Kyoto. I find it to be very exciting sharing the cultural differences between us Japanese people and visitors from all over the world. These experiences really encompass the challenge and excitement of tour guiding.

On December 26th, I took Martin, a visitor from France, to the Arashiyama district in Kyoto. This area was favored for hundreds of years as a weekend retreat for the Kyoto bourgeoisie, its natural beauty inspiring many works of classical poetry. While enjoying this area’s stunning mountainous view, I noticed my guest frowning slightly. He had been taken aback as he heard people sniffing on the train. He continuously exclaimed as we walk through the city.

"Japanese people always care about other people, but it is strange to see them sniffing in public. Why they don’t just blow their nose??"

We found a gap between what is perceived to be good manners between Japanese and the western customs. In Japan, blowing your nose in public is not considered polite. They rather keep sniffing until they find a discreet spot. In contrast, western people would rather blow their nose and put an end to the sniffles.