This course intends to provide just enough knowledge to pass the tour guide licensing exam in Japan. It covers the history, geography, and some general knowledge of Japan.
Since the exam is given in a multiple-choice format (written in Japanese), all you need to know (or to recognize) is relevant names of important historic events, tourist spots, etc. in Japanese. You will NOT be asked to explain the concept in Japanese (you will have a short easy interview in English at the interview if you pass the multiple-choice exam).
I will go over as many old exams as possible, and explain everything in English, indicating important words in Japanese, so that you will be able to understand concept in English with important words in Japanese. I assume that you have basic Japanese knowledge and understand a problem statement or instruction, such as ”次の設問(1)~(5)を読んで、正解をそれぞれの語群①~⑤からひとつ選んで、解答欄にマークしなさい". If not, don't worry too much, because the problem instructions are given mostly in the same style, or a similar format - you will get used to them soon.
You are expected to be able to identify famous art (paintings, Buddhist sculptures, etc.), architecture, and landscape by photos. I will provide you with various photos for practice.