National Qualifications Interpreter Guide
A guide who conveys Japanese culture to foreign tourists. An "interpreter-guide" is a person who simultaneously acts as an interpreter and a travel guide. They also teach Japanese culture and customs correctly and plan travel itineraries.
It is the only national certification in the language field!
An interpreter/travel guide is a person who simultaneously acts as an interpreter and a travel guide. Just as there are local guides who guide Japanese people on trips abroad in Japanese, there are, of course, specialists who guide foreigners to Japan in English and various other foreign languages.
The main job of an interpreter-guide is to correctly explain Japanese culture and customs to travelers. The "Interpreter Guide Examination" tests not only language skills, but also skills as a guide.
Without passing this exam, one cannot perform the same kind of work as a professional guide. The certification system started soon after World War II and is known as the only national certification in the language field.
Take a Japan Sightseeing Tour!
Work is not easy. Preparation is hard, the workload varies depending on the season, and it is not easy to live on one's own. But the role of showing foreign tourists around their own country, Japan, is sure to be rewarding.
In addition, recently, there has been an increase in work for purposes other than tourism. These jobs include interpreting for business, training, international conferences, and various events. If you want to work in the language field in the future, consider becoming a professional interpreter.
You can get a good idea of how interpreter guides work by participating in sightseeing tours of Japan for foreigners organized by travel agencies and other organizations. What foreigners visiting Japan are interested in are things that are not in the guidebooks. You will realize that language skills alone are not enough to properly answer the questions of foreigners. It is important to learn about Japanese history, culture, art, and social structure with curiosity.
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| Graduated from college, etc. | Anyone can take the certification exam. Language skills beyond what you learn at university are required. |
|---|---|
| sit for an examination | In addition to advanced language skills, a wide range of knowledge is also required. After graduating from a university, some students go on to further study at a vocational school. |
| Passed with flying colors! | After passing the exam and applying to the prefectural government, you will be registered. This qualifies you to receive compensation as an interpreter-guide. |
| Register with an agent or specialized temporary staffing agency | After passing the exam, it is common to register with an agency or specialized dispatch company. Membership in a federation or association specializing in interpreting may also offer job placement services. |
| Refine your area of expertise | Having a specialty, such as a strong background in politics and economics or music, is a great advantage for an interpreter-guide. |
contact information (for inquiries) (e.g. corporate phone number)
独立行政法人 国際観光振興機構
【四谷国際ビル】
〒160-0004
東京都新宿区四谷4-4-1
TEL：03-6691-4850 FAX:03-6691-8787（総務部）
