Claire Lee
Hello! I'm Claire, a Japan Travel Specialist with more than 15 years of experience in the travel industry. After working as a tour guide, I discovered my passion for designing tailor-made journeys that help travelers experience Japan beyond the guidebooks. I love sharing Japan's rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and hidden gems while creating personalized itineraries for both travelers and travel advisors. My goal is to make every trip smooth, memorable, and perfectly suited to each client's interests, pace, and travel style.
What places and activities do you specialize in?
"I specialize in personalized travel experiences throughout Japan, with a focus on family vacations, honeymoon getaways, and winter adventures. For families, I create exciting itineraries featuring ninja experiences, anime and manga attractions, hands-on cultural activities, and theme parks. For couples, I recommend romantic ryokan stays with private onsen, gourmet kaiseki dinners, and luxury beach resorts in Okinawa. During the ski season, I help travelers experience Japan's best powder snow in Niseko and Hakuba, paired with relaxing hot spring retreats. I also enjoy incorporating local food, scenic hiking, and hidden gems into every itinerary, ensuring each journey reflects my clients' interests and creates lasting memories."
How did you get involved in travel?
"I started my career as a tour guide more than 10 years ago, and that hands-on experience inspired my passion for designing unforgettable travel experiences. Over the years, I have traveled extensively throughout Japan, exploring both its famous landmarks and lesser-known destinations. These firsthand experiences have given me a deep understanding of Japan's culture, transportation, accommodations, food, and seasonal highlights. Today, I specialize in creating tailor-made itineraries for travelers and travel advisors, combining must-see attractions with hidden gems that match each client's interests and travel style. My goal is to help every traveler experience Japan in a meaningful, authentic, and stress-free way."
Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.
"One of my most unforgettable travel experiences was hiking the Nakasendo Trail through the Kiso Valley. Walking between the historic post towns of Magome, Tsumago, and Narai felt like stepping back into Japan's Edo period. I stayed in a traditional ryokan, enjoyed a homemade kaiseki dinner, and relaxed in a natural hot spring after a full day of hiking. What impressed me most wasn't just the beautiful scenery, but the warmth of the local people and the peaceful atmosphere of the small mountain villages. That journey reminded me that the best travel experiences often happen away from the crowds. It also inspired me to recommend more authentic, slower-paced experiences to my clients, helping them discover a side of Japan that many visitors never get to see."
