Tsuruga Food Walk

Hello, my name is Asami, and I am a cultural guide based in the beautiful Lake Biwa region of Shiga, just north of Kyoto. I grew up in Nagoya and later moved to a small temple town after getting married. My husband is the head priest of a Buddhist temple that has been maintained by his family for more than 650 years. Living here has given me a deep appreciation for the connection between Buddhism, local traditions, nature, and everyday life in rural Japan. Before becoming a guide, I lived in Mexico and worked as an interpreter at a Japanese manufacturing company. That experience helped me understand how visitors from different cultures see Japan, and inspired me to create tours that are personal, meaningful, and welcoming. As a guide, I enjoy sharing the quieter side of Japan beyond the major tourist destinations. My tours focus on authentic cultural experiences, including Buddhist temple practices, historic temple towns, Lake Biwa landscapes, and local sake culture. Travelers are not simply sightseeing, they are invited to experience a small part of real local life. One of my favorite parts of guiding is the opportunity to have genuine conversations with travelers and share stories about the traditions and history of this region. I especially enjoy meeting guests who are curious about culture, religion, history, and the daily lives of local people in Japan. The Lake Biwa region is a wonderful place for travelers looking for a more peaceful and authentic experience. Located conveniently between Kyoto and Kanazawa, this area offers beautiful scenery, deep cultural history, historic towns, and warm local hospitality without the crowds often found in larger tourist destinations. I would be delighted to help you discover this special part of Japan. I am also happy to customize tours based on your interests and travel style, so together we can create a memorable and meaningful experience.