MEET our Team / Local Guides
"TABITTO Mate"
We are local staff/guides specializing in Kagoshima/ Kyushu.
We live locally & know many hidden gems in our area.
We also connected to local companies and experience providers.
Our concerns are our local community and sustainable tourism
Yoshie Kakimoto
Managing Director
Grew up in Kagoshima and living in Hong Kong from 2006. Dual located between Hong Kong and Kagoshima since 2016. Loves hiking. Oxfam100 trail finisher. Guiding in Kirishima area. Shochu Meister / Kikisake-shi. Completed GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training with a Professional Certificate.
"Join our tours and experiences. You will have memorable moments with us!"
Kanako Nakajo
State-licensed Guide
Marketing Manager
Born and mostly raised in Kagoshima. A big fan of Kagoshima's nature, Japanese tea, Tea Ceremony, Japanese sweets, hot springs, flowers and plants. "I can show you tranquility of Japanese culture and Kagoshima, not hustle and bustle of urban areas. When you come to Kagoshima, you might have a different impression about Japan than you expected! Let's explore Kagoshima together."
Mikiko Horikiri
State-licensed Guide
Operating Manager
Experienced as a virtual tour guide after the pandemic. Lives with a husband, two sons and a dog in Kagoshima. Qualified Medical Translator (Basic). Loves to explore the local area and to mingle with local people.
Eiko Tatsumoto
State-licensed Guide
Born in Kanoya, Kagoshima. After living in overseas for more than 10 years, came back to the hometown in 2002. Loves summer and outdoor activities. The big advantage being in Osumi is that the inland sea & the open sea are very close for water activities and many mountains for hiking & camping are also very close.
Yoshiko Fukuda
State-licensed Guide
Born and raised in Kagoshima. "I have been a tour guide more than 4 years. Kagoshima has so many attractions. Stunning view of Mt Sakurajima, best beef in Japan , tasty black pork, unique local history and culture. I am sure you will be a big fan of Kagoshima. I am looking forward to seeing you soon."
Kiyoko Tokunaga
State-licensed Guide
Friendly character, having a great deal of curiosity, a cat & dog lover! Loves Kagoshima and to guide guests from all over the world. "Please come to Kagoshima and enjoy beautiful and rich natural environment, people, foods!"
Yumi Tokudome
Regional- licensed guide
Born and grow up in Kagoshima. "After years of living outside of Kagoshima, I came back home to feel natural power of Sakurajima. Kagoshima has an interesting and incredible history, culture and nature. Let’s enjoy and explore together!!"
Melinda Kawahara
English Native Speaking Guide
Melinda is from Canada and Kagoshima is her second home. Loves outdoor activities and eating delicious food. Official Kagoshima city Tourism Ambassador "Let me share my love of Kagoshima with you!"
Melinda Kawahara
English Native Speaking Guide
Melinda is from Canada and Kagoshima is her second home. Loves outdoor activities and eating delicious food. Official Kagoshima city Tourism Ambassador "Let me share my love of Kagoshima with you!"
Kiyoko Tokunaga
State-licensed Guide
Friendly character, having a great deal of curiosity, a cat & dog lover! Loves Kagoshima and to guide guests from all over the world. "Please come to Kagoshima and enjoy beautiful and rich natural environment, people, foods!"
Rosalie Ferarra
Marketing Associate
Born and raised in France, grew up being passionate about Japanese culture and Japan’s unique atmosphere. Pursued her studies of Japanese language and culture as a university major. Feeling very lucky to experience such an easy-to-live and beautiful city surrounded by such a powerful nature. "I hope to let other people discover these hidden gems. I can’t wait to meet you soon and enjoy adventures together!"
Tomoe Iida
Administration and Operation Manager
Born and Raised in Kagoshima. Have lived in Amami, Nagashima, Akune in Kagoshima before. Also traveled several times to Yakushima. Loves food culture, hot springs, traveling, and spending time in nature. "I hope our guests enjoy the variety of cultures and activities in Kyushu!"
Melinda Kawahara
English Native Speaking Guide
Melinda is from Canada and Kagoshima is her second home. Loves outdoor activities and eating delicious food. Official Kagoshima city Tourism Ambassador "Let me share my love of Kagoshima with you!"