I am currently serving as the Representative Director of our organization.
I am currently out of the guiding business, but was operating about 120-150 days per year from 2014-2019.
Now that I am away from guiding, I am focusing on my work as a representative and training newcomers.
Personally, my days are busy as I am preparing to open a travel business (Wakayama guided tours) in 2024, debut as a ume farmer in 2025, and also start another new business.
Since our association is not licensed to operate a travel agency, we have been looking at opening a travel agency for some time, as we are unable to arrange lodging and transportation, which frequently causes inconvenience to our clients.
I also believe that the most important issues are to create an environment where guides can work year-round and how to promote this work to younger generations.
In this context, there is a high affinity between plum farmers and guides, as the busy season for guides is the off-season for plum farmers and the busy season for plum farmers is the off-season for guides, and the idea of creating an environment where the guides can harvest plums as a side job while being guides as their main job led them to start a plum farm.
Eventually, I would like to create an environment that attracts overseas visitors by offering harvesting and plum wine making experiences.
All of these things are connected to our guide business.
I will do my best to make it a reality.