Introduction
A
Hakodate-born guide helping visitors connect through language and local
insight.
Hello, I
am Joshua Matsumoto (Josh), the founder of Glocal Life Hakodate.
Born in Hakodate and raised in the neighbouring town of Nanae, I have spent my
career exploring the intersections of language, hospitality, and my local
heritage.
Through my
work as a private guide and English instructor, I aim to provide more than just
a tour; I strive to create meaningful connections through authentic
communication.
Background:
My Journey with Language and Hospitality
My journey to becoming a guide has been shaped by years of hands-on experience and a deep curiosity about the world.
The
Foundations in New Zealand (Aged 18)
My journey began with a nine-month language study in New Zealand. I spent the first three months living with a host family and the following six months in a flat, learning to navigate daily life independently. My evenings were spent "self-correcting" the conversations I had during the day, constantly simulating dialogues on the bus to find the most natural ways to connect with people.
Academic
and Professional Training
After returning to Japan, I majored in English at a vocational college in Sapporo. Here, I refined my self-taught skills by studying grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation systematically under both Japanese and native instructors. This was followed by a three-week training programme in Canada.
Experience
in the Hospitality Industry
I spent several years working in the accommodation and retail sectors of hotels within Hokkaido. Working at the "front line" of guest services, I mastered the practicalities of Japanese hospitality (omotenashi) and the importance of anticipating a guest's needs.
A Second
Chapter in New Zealand (2017)
In 2017, I returned to New Zealand on a Working Holiday visa. To challenge myself, I handled everything—from the visa application to finding employment—entirely on my own without an agent. This year of living and working independently in a foreign culture remains a cornerstone of my professional perspective.
.HEIC "Autumn Colours at Goryokaku Park")
.HEIC "Cherry Blossoms Colour Goyokaku Park")
Why I
Started Glocal Life Hakodate
Founded
in 2019 to foster "Glocal" lifestyles in Southern Hokkaido.
I founded Glocal Life Hakodate to encourage the "Think Globally, Act Locally" mindset. By experiencing other cultures, we learn to see our own hometown’s strengths and weaknesses more clearly. My goal is to use my language skills and local knowledge to ensure that visitors feel truly welcomed and understood in our region.
Guiding
& Teaching Philosophy
Prioritising the "joy of connection" over textbook perfection.
Continuous
Learning
Since late 2025, I have been studying for the National Government Licensed Guide-Interpreter certification. I believe that to be a great guide, one must never stop learning. I am constantly updating my knowledge of Japanese geography and history to share even deeper insights with my guests.
The
Heart of Conversation
In my view, the essence of communication isn't about perfect grammar—it’s about the "catchball" of conversation. Even when words are hard to find, I believe in using every tool available to draw a reaction and build an understanding. This "joy of being understood" is exactly what I want to share, whether I am guiding a guest through the streets of Hakodate or teaching a student in my classroom.
.HEIC)
Message
to Visitors
Hakodate is a city with a unique international history and a warm, welcoming spirit. I would be honoured to help you discover its hidden gems, from its historic architecture to its world-class local produce. I look forward to meeting you and sharing the stories of my home.
Contact
If you have any questions or would like to discuss a potential visit, I would be delighted to hear from you.
For
enquiries, please contact me here.
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