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Himeji Tourism Concierge Guide Training 2027

Wawojapan Travel Co., Ltd., headquartered in Minato, Tokyo, has taken charge of the guide training initiative organized by the Himeji Tourism Convention Bureau, located in Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture. Starting from October 17, they are seeking participants for the '2027 Himeji Tourism Concierge Guide Training Program', which aims to nurture English-speaking tour guides in response to the growing inbound tourism demand.

This training program not only encompasses theoretical lessons but also involves practical experiences at Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Kōko-en, a traditional Japanese garden facing the castle.

Mission and Objectives

The Himeji Tourism Convention Bureau is dedicated to making trips to Himeji, the city known for its world heritage, memorable for travelers. The motto, 'We want to create lasting memories for those visiting the world heritage city of Himeji,' is at the core of their initiatives aimed at converting visitors into fans of Himeji. The training program includes fundamental lectures where participants learn essential hospitality skills, effective communication, and the responsibilities of being a guide. Furthermore, under the guidance of experienced local tour guides, trainees will discover key points and routing around Himeji Castle and Kōko-en, followed by practical guiding sessions that apply the knowledge acquired during lectures.

Those who successfully complete the evaluation interview following the program will be recognized as 'Himeji Tourism Concierge Guides.' They will then have the opportunity to lead tours, including the Himeji Castle tour launched in April and future city walking or universal tours.

Application Process

An increase in inbound tourists and the growth of sustainable tourism that can be appreciated by generations are among the significant goals of this initiative. Anyone hoping to contribute as a guide is encouraged to participate.

Training Details

• - Business Name: 2027 Himeji Tourism Concierge Guide Training
• - Organizer: Himeji Tourism Convention Bureau

Theoretical Training:

1. Basic Knowledge for Inbound Guides
- Date: November 27 (Thursday), 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Location: Around Himeji Station

2. CPR and First Aid Course
- Date: December 3 (Wednesday), 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Location: Around Himeji Station

Practical Training: (Location: Himeji Castle and Kōko-en)

1. Simulation Tour by Senior Guides
- Date: December 9 (Tuesday), 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

2. Accompanying Senior Guides on Actual Tours
- Date: December 10 (Wednesday), 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

3. Trainee Simulation Guiding
- Date: December 23 (Tuesday), 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Evaluation Interviews for Certification

• - Timing: Expected in mid-January 2026

Eligibility Requirements

1. Proficiency in English (TOEIC score of 740 or higher, or Eiken Pre-1 or equivalent level).
2. Must have passed the Himeji Certification (Level 3 or higher).
- For those without the Himeji certification, it is mandatory to take the exam held on December 7 (application deadline is October 31).

Application Details

• - Application Form: Link
• - Submission Deadline: November 4 (Tuesday) by noon
• - Selection Results: November 12 (Wednesday)

Note: Video submissions are required for the application. Please check the application form for more details. A selection process may occur if there is a large number of applicants.

Organizations Involved

Himeji Tourism Convention Bureau

Website
This organization is actively involved in promoting tourism initiatives in Himeji, supporting convention invitations and hosting, and encouraging filming location arrangements for various media, thereby contributing to local economic revitalization and the rise of cultural standards in the community, with the objective to construct Himeji as an international tourism city.

Wawojapan Travel Co., Ltd.

Website
Established in March 2022, this inbound travel company specializes in arranging tours for foreign visitors from Europe, America, and Australia and actively collaborates with local DMO (Destination Management Organizations) across Japan to uncover and enhance hidden local attractions. Their mission is to connect the cultural heritage of Japan with foreign visitors as well as local communities.