Now accepting for spring 2026
custom Japan travel planning & private guiding
travel consultation ・ Itinerary Review & Planning ・ Luxury bespoke itineraries ・ Boutique recommendations ・ travel companion service
Discover Authentic Japan, effortless.
Japan is a place where timing, atmosphere, and cultural nuance shape every moment. I design elevated, personal itineraries that bring together boutique stays, refined experiences, and paced days that flow ease. Each journey is thoughtfully curated, so you can explore Japan with comfort and confidence.
With thirty years of travel experience across Japan and practical Japanese skills, I create trips tailored to your individual style.
Japan Travel Services
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Consultation
Ask any Japan travel questions with a 30-minute video call: neighborhoods, lodging, trains, etiquette, dining, and timing.
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itinerary review
Get an expert assessment of your itinerary with improvements for pacing, logistics, and cultural considerations.
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Itinerary Planning
Personalized day-by-day planning with curated recommendations and practical travel guidance. Explore our standard and bespoke options.
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Private Guiding
Travel-companion service for support navigating Japan and adjusting plans on the go.
Why our services make a difference
Personal and Intuitive Itineraries
Every journey is designed around who you are, how you travel, and what brings you joy. Your itinerary is created with intention, thoughtful pacing, and meaningful details that AI and generic travel apps cannot provide.
Three Decades of Japan Experience
With more than thirty years exploring Japan’s cities, countryside, and quiet neighborhoods, you receive guidance shaped by lived experience rather than algorithms.
Hidden Gems and Gentle Discovery
You will see more than the major landmarks. I guide you toward beautiful walking paths, local cafés, family-run shops, and calming corners of Japan that are often missed by standard travel routes.
Cultural Insight Made Simple
You gain easy-to-understand cultural guidance that helps you feel confident and comfortable. I share etiquette tips, timing suggestions, and small details that add depth to your experience without overwhelming you.
Boutique-Level Comfort
If you prefer elevated stays, I help you identify the right boutique hotels, luxury ryokans, refined dining options, and beautifully paced routes that match your comfort level and style.
Testimonies
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We thought we had a good outline, but Karen completely transformed it. She adjusted our pacing and helped us avoid several touristy areas. It felt like she knew exactly how we liked to travel.
M & D, California
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As first-time visitors, we worried about transportation, timing, and cultural differences. Karen's explanations were clear and practical. Our family still talks about the restaurants she recommended in Kyoto!
J Family, Canada
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Karen planned our family trip with such care. Her itinerary was organized, and her recommendations were perfect for us. It was truly a magical trip for us.
H, France
Let’s plan your trip
For more information, check out our Services.
Please note that we are fully booked for 2025.
Services at a Glance
Travel Consultation – $175
Itinerary Review Service – $175
Custom Itinerary Planning – $240+
Luxury Bespoke Itinerary Planning
Private Guiding
Add-on enhancements