Yuko Kobayashi – Licensed Tour Guide/Interpreter in Japan

Nice to meet you. My name is Yuko.
I am a nationally licensed tour guide/interpreter in Japan.

In my twenties, I discovered my passion for tour guiding.
Subsequently, I lived in New York for eight years, where I studied Art Criticism at the School of Visual Arts and volunteered at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

During my time in New York, I received support from many individuals. Upon returning to Japan, I aspired to bridge Japan and the world, leading me to pursue a career in tour guiding.
In February 2025, that dream came true when I passed the national tour guide certification exam.

I love traveling. Especially, I love traveling by myself, so I can easily sympathize with people who travel by themselves.

I love art too.
I am particularly interested in art history, especially the Renaissance, and have a passion for architecture. One of my favorite buildings is the Museum of Modern Art in New York. In Japan, I admire Kengo Kuma’s Nezu Museum in Aoyama, Tokyo.

I also enjoy the Japanese tea ceremony and have studied under the Urasenke school.
Dressing in a kimono and practicing the tea ceremony provide me with precious opportunities to find inner peace amidst my busy daily life.

I love Japan.
It is a peaceful, clean country with delicious cuisine that I can proudly recommend.
But beyond that, I want people to learn about its culture and history as well. Please allow me to be of service to you.
Though I am still on my own journey of learning, I would love to help you discover Japan’s culture, history, and natural environment.

Credentials

• National Government Licensed Tour Guide/Interpreter (English)
  Passed 2025 Certificate No.EN02032
• Travel Service Supervisor (Domestic)
  Passed 2022 No.54-2631
• Former Metropolitan Museum Volunteer Staff
• A Member of Japan Wonder Guide (JWG)
• Urasenke Tea Ceremony Certificate (elementary level)