Guide Service

Systematized Goodwill Guide Groups (SGG groups) use their foreign language skills in a variety of volunteer activities in different locations throughout Japan. Their members are volunteers who are ready and willing to assist overseas visitors. SGG groups are registered with JNTO and wear the badge shown at right. Several SGG groups offer tourists from overseas free local tours in English and other languages. Some SGG groups have pre-set walking tours. To join some of these you need only go to a pre-determined place on certain dates and at certain times, while other SGG groups will make arrangements to meet tourists' requests. There is no charge for SGG guides' services, as they are volunteers. You are only expected to pay their travel expenses and admission fees for tourist facilities in addition to your own, and also to pay for their meals if you eat with them. Feel free to contact any of the SGG groups listed and make arrangements for a personal tour if you are planning to visit one of the places included in the list. These volunteer guides will make your visit to the place of your choice much more memorable and rewarding.

http://japan-magazine.jnto.go.jp/en/1211_sgg.html