Hello everyone, this is Seiya. I have been working as a guide on Amami Oshima, and I was able to obtain certification as an Amami Oshima Certified Eco Tour Guide in 2024. This time, I would like to introduce you to myself and the certification system.
My Career As a Guide
I started working as a guide in 2019. I began with a local guiding company, where I gained knowledge about the local flora and fauna and learned activities like kayaking, SUP and cycling. Over the past four and a half years, I’ve built up experience guiding primarily Japanese clients. After the pandemic, I wanted to guide in English as well, so in October 2023, I launched Link Adventures. Now, I work not only as a certified eco-tour guide but also as a cultural interpreter guide, introducing visitors to both the natural and cultural beauty of the area.
What is a Certified Guide?
According to the Amami Archipelago Ecotourism Promotion Council, a certified guide is defined as someone who has deep knowledge of the nature and culture of the Amami Archipelago, provides visitors with safe and high-quality experiences, and takes responsibility for environmental conservation in the region.
How to become the guide
To become a certified guide, there are several steps. First, you must reside on Amami Oshima for more than two years and gain at least one year of guiding experience to become a registered guide. This also requires completion of first aid training. Additionally, you need to complete guide training sessions held regularly over two years. After completing the training, registered guides can attend the final training to obtain certification.
Only Certified Guides Can Lead in Kinsakubaru
Kinsakubaru National Forest, a popular spot in Amami Oshima, can only be guided by certified guides. This rule has been in place since 2018 to protect the many rare plant species found here. Additionally, the road to Kinsakubaru is unpaved and located on a mountain, making it risky to access on your own. The Kinsakubaru Nature Walk is a gentle, low-intensity tour perfect for those looking to explore a National Park and World Heritage area at a relaxed pace.
Amami Islands Area Licensed Interpreter Guide
I also hold an Amami Islands Area Licensed Interpreter Guide certification, which I obtained in 2022 after completing practical-focused training, even more hands-on than the Certified Eco-Tour Guide program. Although a fair number of people hold this interpreter certification, few actually work as guides. Just as I’ve advanced in my own career, I’d like to help create opportunities for aspiring guides to level up as well.
Be an Entertainer
Whether certified or not, it’s important not to forget that there are many wonderful guides on Amami Oshima. Certification is just one qualification, and I believe the true value of a guide lies in their ability to entertain and satisfy customers. I want to remember this and continue guiding with humility every day.