With over 300 helpful videos and counting, this Local Guide documents the many routes and experiences across Japan. Anzu's philosophy is simple — enjoy your experience to the fullest, and bring your community together to share that fun whenever you can. Anzu continues to combine both tactics, hosting meet-ups for Local Guides to show off their favorite snacks in the area.

What is your favorite place, experience, photo or video you contributed to Google Maps this year?
All of them were wonderful places, but if I had to choose, I would say Anrakuji Temple in Nagano. I swung by on a whim, and the moment I entered, I was enveloped by the serene mountain air and it felt sacred.

What advice do you have for other Local Guides?
Enjoy your guide activity! All of the Local Guides are incredibly passionate. I find it interesting every time I discover more about this community.

What do you like most about the Local Guides community?
An unexpected reply from an experienced Local Guide.

What makes a place or experience worth rating/reviewing?
If the background, history or your experience point to a place being loved by the community — then it is worth being reviewed.

What is your favorite feature of Google Maps?
Route search. It tells me which platform to take the train from to make the transfer easier. Tokyo has many trains and buses, and this feature still helps me a lot.

Want to learn more about this incredible Local Guide? Check out their contributions on Google Maps and follow them on Connect.