A Day in the Country

Hello. Setsuko here. I specialize in tours of Nagano and Tokyo, but I can actually take you anywhere in Japan, like Kyoto, Nikko, or Hakone. I choose these days to live in the country. Why? Because I'm an animal lover - particularly dogs, cats, and horses. Also my home town - Karuizawa - is only an hour from Tokyo by the shinkansen. Karuizawa is a wonderful blend of nature and culture. I can't imagine living anywhere else in Japan now. I do love Tokyo though. I know both places very well. I've lived and traveled in many other countries. In New Zealand and Australia, for example, I worked for twelve years as an interpreter and guide. I often found myself far off the beaten path. Indeed, my most memorable experiences came from what local people showed me there. That's just the sort of experience I'd like to give you. When I returned to Japan I developed a keen interest in its history, its way of life, and its cuisine. I made the decision to get a national guide's qualification. And here I am. I must say, too, how much I enjoy meeting new people. I'd really like to share with you my knowledge of my society's many nooks and crannies. Japan is an intriguing blend of the traditional and the modern and exploring this blend is the very best reason for coming to visit us. I hope to see you soon. National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter Certificate No. EN00124 Certificate of Authorized Tour Conductor Registration No. 02-18-056835 No restrictions