Guide Profile - Michiko DOI

Michiko DOI

English Interpreter-Guide

Guiding Area: Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe

Background

Born and raised in Kansai, the western part of Japan. Educated at a private Christian girls’ school, founded by American female missionaries in 1873, from middle school through college. Spent a year in the USA as an exchange student in high school, which became a game-changing incident in my life. Becoming conscious of my origin and identity as a Japanese, grew interested in studying and learning more about my country. Qualified as a nationally-licensed tour guide in English in 1969.

Specialties and Hobbies

• Playing and teaching the koto, traditional Japanese string instrument
• Visiting places of historical interest
• Hiking in nature

Message

Thank you for choosing to visit Kansai on your Japan trip. The first moment you have stepped into Kyoto, you might get a little disappointed, thinking you have only come to another modern, big city; a far cry from your image of an “ancient” capital. Within an hour, however, you will regain your fascination in the place, discovering around you various things of interest, far exceeding your imagination. It is said that in Kyoto even a tree and a weed on the roadside have history of their own. Let me help you explore this area and discover the essence of its charm!