Hi, I’m Sara
Hi, I’m Sara
I’ve lived in Naha for 22 years
I speak Japanese
I am an English tour guide specializing in Shuri Castle and the Shuri area
“Chuuganabira,” or “Hello” as we say here in Shuri! I’m Sara. My mother is Japanese from Nagasaki and my father is American from Pennsylvania and I grew up between Japan and the U.S., giving me a naturally bicultural, global outlook. I’m a hospitality professional with over 35 years of experience in Japan’s international hotel and tourism industries, having held senior roles at world-renowned hotels such as Park Hyatt Tokyo, Grand Hyatt Tokyo, and The Terrace Hotels. I’ve also worked as a simultaneous interpreter for organizations including NHK, supporting major cultural and international events. Over the years, I’ve welcomed distinguished guests - from artists and actors to political leaders and renowned chefs. I relocated from Tokyo to Naha in 2003 after falling in love with this beautiful port city: its warm, friendly people, delicious local food, rich history and culture, and most of all, the breathtaking turquoise ocean and blue sky. My passion is making people happy through omotenashi the uniquely Japanese art of thoughtful, respectful hospitality. I specialize in Shuri Castle tours and have insider access through onsite research, membership in the Shurijo Castle Friendship Association, and close connections with the castle staff and the Okinawa Churashima Foundation. I also have deep ties to the Sho royal family, offering rare insights into the Ryukyu Kingdom. I look forward to introducing you to the royal, majestic, and fascinating world of Shuri!
My knowledge & interests
Food
Arts
History
Shopping
Photography
Architecture
Culture & customs
Music
Street food
Local cuisine
Desserts
Food markets
Fine dining
Unique & unusual foods
Cinema
Parks
Gardens
Political history
Economic history
Social history
Architectural history
Religious history
Cityscape photography
Street photography
Portrait photography
Modern architecture
Classical architecture
Third wave coffee
Local beers
High-end fashion boutiques
Department stores
Vintage shops
Street markets
Handicrafts & souvenirs
Traditional culture
Religious customs
Lifestyle culture
Rituals & ceremonial customs
Gourmet food
Local speciality drinks
Traditional drinks
Japanese sake
Performance art
Folk art
Indigenous art
Landscape photography
Food photography
Commercial photography
Blues music
Folk music
R&B
Soul music
Reggae