Hi there, my name is Ayako Watanabe. I’m an English-speaking government licensed tour guide (No. EN02388) living and working in Tokyo.
Why a tour guide you ask? I love traveling in Japan and abroad, and after enjoying the kindness of locals on many trips to Europe, Asia and the US, I decided to share what I know about my city.
After graduation from the faculty of English at university, I worked for a trading company for six years as a sales administrator. While working part time at a securities company, I got my guide’s license in 2008.
I’m a member of IJCEE. I have arranged private tours of Tokyo for solo travelers, couples and small groups. Aside from travel, I have been taking classes in Japanese, Western and Chinese cuisine for about seven years, learning how to make everything from soba and udon noodles to bread.
My favorite things to do in Tokyo: Enjoying the skyline from Tokyo City View, window shopping in Ginza, eating sushi in Tsukiji, walking around Yanaka and eating at hotel dessert buffets.
In my spare time I like to cook Japanese and western foods, travel home and abroad, make accessories and walk around Tokyo.
Why Edokko? Edo is the former name of Tokyo, from the time before it became the capital of Japan. Edokko means “Edo kid” in Japanese, and refers to someone who is born and raised in Tokyo. Edokko Tokyoites are known for their friendly, straightforward outlook on life, something I strive to celebrate in every tour.
That’s it for now! In the meantime, read more about my tours, or check out my blog.