Miyako Hirano
Tokyo
Summary
National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter with extensive experience guiding international visitors across Japan. Experienced in both FIT and group tours, with strong skills in crowd management, time management, and engaging storytelling. Specialized in Tokyo cultural tours, Mt. Fuji, Hakone, Kamakura, Nikko, and Japanese cultural experiences, particularly sumo culture. Also active as a sumo show MC, speaking to large international audiences and delivering entertaining cultural presentations.
Overview
35
35
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Freelance Tour Guide & Interpreter
Japan
01.2018 - Current
- Lead city tours and regional tours for international visitors
- Guide group tours and private travelers
- Provide clear and engaging cultural explanations of Japanese history and traditions
- Coordinate schedules, transportation, and logistics for smooth tour operations
- Guide sumo stable morning practice experiences
- Serve as MC for sumo cultural entertainment shows
Industrial Bank of Japan (now Mizuho Financial Group)
Tokyo & Singapore
01.1991 - 01.2001
- Worked in international banking operations including overseas assignment in Singapore.
- Developed strong professional communication skills and cross-cultural experience.
Education
BA - English and American Literature
Tokyo Woman’s Christian University
Skills
- Group tour management
- Crowd control and guest safety
- Time management and itinerary coordination
- Engaging cultural storytelling
- Cross-cultural communication
- Sumo culture expertise
Interests
Sumo culture, contemporary art, museums, piano, and cooking, I am particularly interested in introducing Japanese art and cultural traditions to international visitors and creating memorable cultural experiences
Certification
- National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (Japan)
- EIKEN Grade 1 (Test in Practical English Proficiency)
- Medical Interpreter – English Level 1
- Tour Conductor Certification (Domestic)
- WSET Level 1 Award in Sake
Timeline
Freelance Tour Guide & Interpreter
01.2018 - Current
Industrial Bank of Japan (now Mizuho Financial Group)
01.1991 - 01.2001
BA - English and American Literature
Tokyo Woman’s Christian University
Guiding Highlights (2025)
- 152 guiding days
- 123 FIT tours
- 29 group tours
- 75 sumo show MC performances
- Extensive experience managing both small private tours and large international groups.