I adore Japan! Its rich cultural tapestry, captivating history, delectable cuisine, warm-hearted people, and breathtaking landscapes truly captivate my heart. My passion for Japan runs deep—not only do I appreciate its traditions and natural beauty, but I also actively engage with its music, dramas, video games, anime, and broader cultural expressions. In fact, to better understand and enjoy these aspects, I even took the initiative to learn Japanese on my own.
Engaging in conversations about Japan with culturally-minded travelers brings me immense joy, and I find fulfillment in assisting them in crafting an experience that aligns with their desires. My travel philosophy centers around the belief that life and travel are opportunities for personal reflection and growth. I am fervently dedicated to sharing this philosophy with our guests, ensuring that their journey through Japan becomes a meaningful exploration of both the external wonders and the inner self.
What places and activities do you specialize in?
"Japan is a fascinating country where ancient traditions harmoniously coexist with modern innovation. From the elegance of tea ceremonies and the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms to the refined craftsmanship of sushi, every element of Japanese culture tells a story that continues to inspire me. My deep appreciation for Japan extends beyond personal interest—I specialize in designing immersive Japan tours that highlight the country’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant culinary scene.
Whether a traveler is passionate about serene natural landscapes, time-honored traditions, delicious local cuisine, or the colorful worlds of anime and video games, I excel at creating thoughtfully tailored itineraries that reflect their unique interests. My goal is to ensure every guest experiences the very best of Japan through meaningful encounters and unforgettable moments."
How did you get involved in travel?
"When I was 16, I left China to pursue my studies in Malaysia. At the age of 20, I moved to Melbourne, Australia, where I lived and worked for ten years. Eventually, I returned to Shanghai. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to travel to many countries and regions, meeting people from all walks of life and diverse cultural backgrounds. These experiences not only broadened my worldview but also deepened my appreciation for the unique traditions, landscapes, and stories each destination holds. It was through these meaningful encounters that my passion for travel truly took root, ultimately guiding me toward a fulfilling career in the travel industry."
Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.
"One of the most unforgettable travel experiences I had in Japan was in the charming town of Kamakura. Among all its historical treasures, what left the deepest impression on me was visiting Hase-dera Temple. As I wandered through the peaceful temple grounds, I came across hundreds of small Jizō statues tucked away along moss-covered paths. Each statue, lovingly placed, seemed to embody the prayers and emotions of people who had come before me. The quiet beauty of the temple, paired with the soft chanting of monks in the distance, created an atmosphere that was both spiritual and deeply moving."
Cannon's favorite itineraries and travel advice
Top itineraries and travel advice
Recent trip reviews for Cannon
I just came back from a wonderful trip to Jap...
Japan
|
May 8 - May 26, 2026
Silvana M.
Costa Rica
| Reviewed on Jun 12, 2026
I just came back from a wonderful trip to Japan, I was extremely impressed with the service and friendliness of the tour guides.
They were always punctual, arriving on time to pick us up and they treated us exceptionally well.
There's one tour guide I'll always remember for his professionalism: Davin from Hungry Tours Osaka. The day we spent with him was a truly enriching experience.
I loved the visit where We could appreciate Mount Fuji and We have a wonderful lunch ,plus the...
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I just came back from a wonderful trip to Japan, I was extremely impressed with the service and friendliness of the tour guides.
They were always punctual, arriving on time to pick us up and they treated us exceptionally well.
There's one tour guide I'll always remember for his professionalism: Davin from Hungry Tours Osaka. The day we spent with him was a truly enriching experience.
I loved the visit where We could appreciate Mount Fuji and We have a wonderful lunch ,plus the very beutiful and very peaceful temple.
A hotel I'll always remember is the Riokan Aura Tachibana, it was such a lovely experience having to wear a robe to breakfast and dinner , the food was espectacular, the flavor, the presentation and the amazing service were all outstanding.
The first hotel in Tokio was located in a very good area, but the restaurant wasn't good.
What I remember is that it was a wonderful trip and that's why my friend and I are going in another trip with your company.
Local specialist: Cannon Xiao
Cannon Xiao
Local specialist in Japan
| Replied on Jun 20, 2026
Hi Silvana,
Thank you so much for your lovely review!
I'm so happy to hear that you and Joe had such a wonderful time in Japan. I'll be sure to pass your kind words along to Davin, I'm sure he'll be delighted to hear them.
It sounds like the Mt. Fuji day, Ryokan Aura Tachibana, and all the amazing food created some very special memories. Thank you as well for your feedback about the Tokyo hotel restaurant.
Most of all, thank you for trusting us again with your next trip. It means a lot to us, and I'm excited to help you plan another great adventure!
Warm regards,
Cannon
Amazing Japan Trip with Sumo Tourney & Geiko Expereince
Japan
|
May 21 - Jun 3, 2026
MIKAL H.
Dallas, TX
| Reviewed on Jun 04, 2026
Thanks for the amazing trip plan by kimkim and our local travel specialist Cannon. We had truly unique experiences including a grand sumo tournament in Tokyo and a private dinner with a Geiko in Kyoto with a translator. The trip details were very well thought out and the train tickets and transfers were seamless. Cannon was always available to help with questions and trip adjustments that we requested. I will definitely use kimkim again in the future.
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Thanks for the amazing trip plan by kimkim and our local travel specialist Cannon. We had truly unique experiences including a grand sumo tournament in Tokyo and a private dinner with a Geiko in Kyoto with a translator. The trip details were very well thought out and the train tickets and transfers were seamless. Cannon was always available to help with questions and trip adjustments that we requested. I will definitely use kimkim again in the future.
Hotel Reviews
Hotel location was excellent, hotel was heavily used and room was not very clean.
Authenticity & Character
Just OK
Location
Easy walking access to train station and old town
Staff
Check in was difficult and confusing with breakfast inclusion issues
Cleanliness & Comfort
Room was not well kept and showed details of not being cleaned well
Kanbayashi Hotel Senjukaku
Nagano
Excellent hotel, meals very well done, hot baths amazing.
Authenticity & Character
Beautiful authentic Japanese garden and onsen.
Location
Location within easy walking distance to the Snow Monkey Park.
Staff
Good service and very friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very authentic, sleeping mattresses are prepared on the floor each night
Activity Reviews
Private Dinner with a Geisha - Maiko Ozashiki Experience
Kyoto
Top activity of the trip. Didn't realize how unique this experience would be. Having the translator made this an amazing expereince.
Quality of Experience
The Geiko was so graceful and welcoming. Truly a unique experience learning about the Geiko and Mayko culture.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
we had trouble finding this place but it was our fault as we went on our own versus having the driver wait and drop us off.
Tokyo Day Tour with Tsukiji Outer Market & Senso-ji - East & Central
Tokyo
We didn't realize how touristy this market is. Would have preferred to go to the inner fish market where they auction the tuna.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guide was good. No complaints.
Discover Timeless Takayama: Market, Tradition & Sukiyaki Delight
Takayama
Excellent day and our guide was really good. What a beautiful small town away from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide Yuko was excellent. We highly recommend her. She was excellent and being flexible with helping us stop and shop for a few specialty items.
Private Sushi Making Experience with a Master Sushi Chef Trained at an Eminent Sushi Restaurant
Tokyo
We loved the private sushi making experience. The chef was excellent.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Yasaka Shrine & Gion Walk with Nishiki Market
Kyoto
As noted below, all of our Kyoto experiences with the guide were below average. He didn't have much personality or seem to be an expert on anything. He asked us each day what the plan was and what we wanted to do. He didn't take a leadership role or seem to be excited about showing off his city.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide for Kyoto was nice but not super knowledgeable or much personality. He essentially asked us each day what we wanted to do. We aren't the experts, we don't live here. I don't recommend this guide.
Full Day Shirakawa-go Tour
Japan
Very unique place and worth the trip, especially the house showing how they replace the original thatch roof. The guide helped make this a good experience.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Full Day Tour of Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Sagano Scenic Railway
Kyoto
Was raining the day we went and overrun with tourists. Also the guide was disappointing and didn't provide much detail or commentary.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private Kimono Tea Ceremony at Kyoto Maikoya
Kyoto
Very fun experience learning about the tea ceremony and dressing in kimonos.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Cannon Xiao
Cannon Xiao
Local specialist in Japan
| Replied on Jun 05, 2026
Dear Mikal，
Thank you very much for your kind review.
I am truly delighted that you were able to come to Japan and enjoy such meaningful and unique cultural experiences. It was my great honor to help design and arrange this trip for you.
I also sincerely appreciate your detailed feedback, which has helped me better understand your experience in places such as Tsukiji Outer Market, your hotel in Takayama, and the guiding service in Kyoto. Your comments are extremely valuable.
I hope I will...
Read more
Dear Mikal，
Thank you very much for your kind review.
I am truly delighted that you were able to come to Japan and enjoy such meaningful and unique cultural experiences. It was my great honor to help design and arrange this trip for you.
I also sincerely appreciate your detailed feedback, which has helped me better understand your experience in places such as Tsukiji Outer Market, your hotel in Takayama, and the guiding service in Kyoto. Your comments are extremely valuable.
I hope I will have the opportunity to assist you again in the future and show you even more of the beauty of Japan.
Wishing you all the best, good health, and happiness always.
Best Regards
Cannon
Completely exceeded expectations!
Japan
|
May 17 - May 27, 2026
Lauri M.
Wolf Trap, VA
| Reviewed on Jun 02, 2026
We just returned from our trip to Japan and as the title says, the trip completely exceeded our expectations thanks to our local contact, Cannon. He was amazing to work with, start to finish, and even during the trip! Nothing was left to chance. Our entire experience was seamless. The excursions, the guides, the drivers, the hotels, were perfection. I can't imagine planning a vacation with Kimkim.
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We just returned from our trip to Japan and as the title says, the trip completely exceeded our expectations thanks to our local contact, Cannon. He was amazing to work with, start to finish, and even during the trip! Nothing was left to chance. Our entire experience was seamless. The excursions, the guides, the drivers, the hotels, were perfection. I can't imagine planning a vacation with Kimkim.
Hotel Reviews
Green Hill Hotel Onomichi
Onomichi
Asakusa View Hotel Annex Rokku
Tokyo
Activity Reviews
Osaka Highlights Bike Tour
Japan
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transfer from Kyoto to Osaka via Nara
Japan
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Full Day Kyoto City Tour with Fushimi Inari-Taisha
Kyoto
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Tea Ceremony with Kimono & KAISEKI Dinner
Kyoto
Guides, Drivers and Staff
From Hakone to Kyoto
Japan
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Tokyo Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku
Tokyo
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Lake Kawaguchi & Mt. Fuji Ice Cave Adventure
Japan
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Yanaka Historical Walking Tour in Tokyo's Old Town
Tokyo
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Tokyo Guided Small-Group Biking Tour
Tokyo
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Cannon Xiao
Cannon Xiao
Local specialist in Japan
| Replied on Jun 08, 2026
Hi Lauri，
That sounds really heartwarming to read — I’m genuinely glad the trip lived up to your expectations.
It was a real pleasure helping you plan everything, and even more so seeing it all come together smoothly while you were in Japan. I know how much goes into a journey like this, so I’m really happy to hear that the guides, drivers, hotels, and experiences all worked out well for you.
Thank you as well for trusting me with your trip from the beginning. I hope Japan leaves you with...
Read more
Hi Lauri，
That sounds really heartwarming to read — I’m genuinely glad the trip lived up to your expectations.
It was a real pleasure helping you plan everything, and even more so seeing it all come together smoothly while you were in Japan. I know how much goes into a journey like this, so I’m really happy to hear that the guides, drivers, hotels, and experiences all worked out well for you.
Thank you as well for trusting me with your trip from the beginning. I hope Japan leaves you with many good memories, and I’d be more than happy to help again whenever you plan your next adventure.
Best Regards
Cannon
An Unforgettable Journey Through Japan
Japan
|
May 8 - May 26, 2026
Joe T.
New York, NY, USA
| Reviewed on May 29, 2026
Our recent trip to Japan, organized by KimKim, was an unforgettable experience from start to finish. The itinerary, Cultural Harmony & Culinary Discovery, was perfectly designed, beginning in Tokyo and ending in Osaka. It gave us a wonderful balance of Japan’s rich traditions, modern energy, beautiful scenery, and incredible food.
Every part of the journey felt thoughtfully planned and seamless. We especially want to recognize the wonderful guides who made our trip so memorable. Davin led us...
Read more
Our recent trip to Japan, organized by KimKim, was an unforgettable experience from start to finish. The itinerary, Cultural Harmony & Culinary Discovery, was perfectly designed, beginning in Tokyo and ending in Osaka. It gave us a wonderful balance of Japan’s rich traditions, modern energy, beautiful scenery, and incredible food.
Every part of the journey felt thoughtfully planned and seamless. We especially want to recognize the wonderful guides who made our trip so memorable. Davin led us on an amazing walking tour of Osaka, bringing the city’s energy and food culture to life. Yosh guided us through Tokyo’s old town and the beautiful Nezu Shrine, where we also had the special experience of crafting our own maneki-neko lucky cat.
Masa gave us an incredible tour of Tsukiji Fish Market and introduced us to the anime and subcultures of Akihabara, which was such a fun and unique experience. Toru showed us Mount Fuji on the most perfect viewing day imaginable — truly an iconic and unforgettable moment. Asuka led our amazing tour of Nara and the Kyoto area, sharing so much history and local insight. Masako was also outstanding, bringing deep knowledge and expertise to our tour of Hiroshima and Miyajima Island.
The culinary side of the trip was another highlight. We enjoyed delicious regional foods, explored local markets, and experienced the depth and variety of Japanese cuisine. Ending the trip in Osaka, known for its food culture, was the perfect finale.
KimKim made the entire process smooth, organized, and enjoyable. The recommendations were excellent, the logistics were well coordinated, and the trip felt personalized and stress-free from beginning to end.
Overall, this was a truly special journey that combined culture, food, history, and discovery in the best possible way. We would highly recommend KimKim to anyone planning a trip to Japan.
Hotel Reviews
Hotel Hankyu RESPIRE OSAKA
Osaka
Hotel Hankyu RESPIRE OSAKA has an amazing location, situated above a large shopping and food complex with plenty of dining options nearby. The convenience of the location was definitely one of the highlights of our stay.
The main downside was the room size. Our rooms were extremely small, with not enough space to open luggage comfortably, which made things quite inconvenient.
Breakfast was good, with lots of options available. There was also a really good restaurant on site where we ended up having dinner twice. The hotel itself is very large, so it was constantly very busy, but overall we loved the location and found it very convenient.
Kyoto Tokyu Hotel was a comfortable stay overall. The rooms were okay and provided what was needed, though they were not especially memorable.
One slightly inconvenient aspect was the layout of the hotel entrance. From the front entrance, you have to go down an escalator to reach reception and the elevators to the rooms, which is not ideal when arriving with luggage.
On the positive side, breakfast was pretty good, and the hotel has a couple of good restaurants on site, which made dining convenient. Overall, it was a decent hotel with good food options, though the entrance layout could be improved for guests with luggage.
Ryokan Aura Tachibana
Hakone
Ryokan Aura Tachibana was a true 5-star experience from start to finish. The private onsen in the room was a real highlight, offering a relaxing and authentic Japanese stay. We also loved the experience of wearing the provided kimono/yukata, including the men’s version for me, which added to the traditional atmosphere.
The food was exceptional. The 9-course dinners featured authentic Japanese cuisine, with every dish beautifully prepared and meticulously curated. The Japanese breakfast was equally impressive and felt just as thoughtfully presented.
The staff were amazing — welcoming, attentive, and professional throughout the stay. Overall, Ryokan Aura Tachibana delivered an unforgettable and highly authentic Japanese experience.
The B Ginza Hotel is very centrally located and convenient for getting around Tokyo, which was definitely its strongest point. It made sightseeing, shopping, and accessing public transport very easy.
However, the rooms were very small, even by city hotel standards. Breakfast was quite meagre, and the breakfast area was small and crowded, with many people packed in at the same time. The elevators were also a major frustration — they were often full, and the wait felt endless at times.
Overall, the location was excellent, but the hotel experience itself was disappointing due to the cramped rooms, limited breakfast, and elevator issues.
Local specialist: Cannon Xiao
Cannon Xiao
Local specialist in Japan
| Replied on Jun 03, 2026
Hi Joe,
Thank you so much for taking the time to provide such a detailed review of your trip. Feedback like yours is incredibly valuable to us, and we truly appreciate the effort you put into sharing your experience.
I am especially pleased to hear that you enjoyed the itinerary, the cultural experiences, and the culinary discoveries throughout Japan. It means a great deal to know that the trip created so many memorable moments for you.
Thank you as well for your kind words about the...
Read more
Hi Joe,
Thank you so much for taking the time to provide such a detailed review of your trip. Feedback like yours is incredibly valuable to us, and we truly appreciate the effort you put into sharing your experience.
I am especially pleased to hear that you enjoyed the itinerary, the cultural experiences, and the culinary discoveries throughout Japan. It means a great deal to know that the trip created so many memorable moments for you.
Thank you as well for your kind words about the guides. I will be sure to pass your compliments along to Davin, Yosh, Masa, Toru, Asuka, and Masako. I know they will be delighted to hear that they helped make your journey so special and memorable.
We also greatly appreciate your thoughtful hotel reviews. Both the positive comments and the constructive feedback are extremely helpful and will assist us in improving our future recommendations and services for other travelers.
Thank you again for your comments and for allowing us to be part of your Japan adventure. It was a pleasure helping you plan this journey, and I hope we will have the opportunity to assist you again in the future.
I would love to welcome you back to Japan someday to explore even more unique regions, cities, and experiences beyond those you have already discovered.
Best regards,
Cannon
Our family had a dream trip expertly curated ...
Japan
|
Mar 27 - Apr 5, 2026
Nicole D.
Los Angeles, CA
| Reviewed on Apr 29, 2026
Our family had a dream trip expertly curated by Cannon from kimkim. It was my first time using this service and it delighted and exceeded expectations at every turn. Going to Japan for the first time seemed intimidating to plan and Cannon was with us every step of the way making sure we were prepared and enjoying every minute. Our guides and activities were all fantastic. Jason was particularly wonderful. He was knowledgeable, fun and easy to spend an action packed day with and attentive...
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Our family had a dream trip expertly curated by Cannon from kimkim. It was my first time using this service and it delighted and exceeded expectations at every turn. Going to Japan for the first time seemed intimidating to plan and Cannon was with us every step of the way making sure we were prepared and enjoying every minute. Our guides and activities were all fantastic. Jason was particularly wonderful. He was knowledgeable, fun and easy to spend an action packed day with and attentive to our pace and preferences. Each driver and guide made contact the evening before and was right where they said they'd be each excursion. The app was easy to use and having it and Cannon in our "pocket" was a great comfort as we navigated each new place. We had an incredible time exploring a wonderful country and created memories we will treasure always. The experiences hit all the right notes and left us excited to plan our next trip! Thank you KimKim for making travel adventures so easy, accessible and absolutely enjoyable!
Hotel Reviews
Shinagawa Prince Hotel
Tokyo
Kyoto Umekoji Kadensho - Private Bath Facility
Location
Proximity to train
Hakone Yumoto Fujiya Hotel
Hakone
Activity Reviews
Full-Day Hakone Adventure: Mt. Fuji Views & Lake Ashi Cruise
Japan
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Day Trip to Nara: Temples, Deer, and Historic Streets
Kyoto
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our driver was the best! So sweet and friendly.
Nishiki Market Brunch Walking Food Tour
Japan
Great guides! Josh was so fun and knowledgeable and made sure we tried lots of new things at the market and walked away with new knowledge and full stomachs.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Kyoto’s Cultural Treasures: Fushimi Inari-Taisha, Kiyomizu-dera & Gion District
Japan
Jason was very knowledgeable and was very attentive to our preferences and pace. It was a lot to see in a day but it was so much fun!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Kimono Tea Ceremony at Kyoto Maikoya
Kyoto
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Ninja Experience in Kyoto (Family & Kid Friendly)
Kyoto
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Tokyo: Sumo Show Experience with Drinks and Photo
Tokyo
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Sushi & Home Cooking Class from Market to Table near Asakusa
Tokyo
Super fun and our teacher was wonderful.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Chase Cherry Blossom with Tsukiji Outer Market in Tokyo
Tokyo
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Great guide
From Hakone to Kyoto
Japan
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Cannon Xiao
Cannon Xiao
Local specialist in Japan
| Replied on May 04, 2026
Hi Nicole,
Thank you so much for this incredibly kind and thoughtful message.
I’m really happy to hear that your first experience with Kimkim and your journey in Japan exceeded expectations and felt smooth and enjoyable throughout. Japan can feel a bit overwhelming for a first visit, so it’s especially rewarding to know you felt supported every step of the way and were able to simply focus on enjoying the experience.
I’m also glad to hear Jason made such a strong impression—he is indeed...
Read more
Hi Nicole,
Thank you so much for this incredibly kind and thoughtful message.
I’m really happy to hear that your first experience with Kimkim and your journey in Japan exceeded expectations and felt smooth and enjoyable throughout. Japan can feel a bit overwhelming for a first visit, so it’s especially rewarding to know you felt supported every step of the way and were able to simply focus on enjoying the experience.
I’m also glad to hear Jason made such a strong impression—he is indeed wonderful, and I’ll be sure to share your kind words with him and the rest of the team, including the drivers and guides who supported your trip.
It was a real pleasure helping plan this journey for your family, and I’m truly grateful for your trust. Knowing you’ve created such meaningful memories is the best part of what I do.
I hope this is just the beginning of many more travel adventures for you, and I would be absolutely delighted to help you plan your next one whenever the time comes.
Warmest regards,
Cannon
Great one-week stop-over - three city exposure of Japan
Japan
|
Apr 14 - Apr 21, 2026
Tom D.
Minneapolis, MN
| Reviewed on Apr 26, 2026
We had a great time with a quick one-week stopover in Japan. Really enjoyed Kyoto gardens and temple/shrines. Picture and weather perfect day in Hakone - doing the loop - with the iconic snow-capped Fuji. Toyko is much to big for just 2 days - but loved the Palace Garden and the Asakusa area was buzzing.
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We had a great time with a quick one-week stopover in Japan. Really enjoyed Kyoto gardens and temple/shrines. Picture and weather perfect day in Hakone - doing the loop - with the iconic snow-capped Fuji. Toyko is much to big for just 2 days - but loved the Palace Garden and the Asakusa area was buzzing.
Hotel Reviews
Asakusa View Hotel Annex Rokku
Tokyo
Very modern city hotel. Very clean quite and comfortable. Helpful staff. Breakfast buffet at their main building was excellent.
Authenticity & Character
It's a very modern hotel - clean, quiet and comfortable.
Location
Fun to be right in the Asakusa area and easy access to subway
Tokinoyu Setsugetsuka
Hakone-machi
Clearly a good resort experience with baths and very close proximity to the transit needed to make the loop
Authenticity & Character
If you like to dress up - they provide all the robes and such. Very nice hot baths and spacious rooms. However zero flexibility with set menu and over the food is average taste
Location
2 minute walk from train station / cable car
Staff
Had issues communicating and had issues with seating on reserved 2nd day dinner. We were first in lline for our shift and they sat us (initially in a dark corner table with no view of anything- while the many garden view tables were all open and available. After a few challenges trying to communicate our issue they finally re-sat us at a good view table. But it was not friendly and barely accommodating. No flexibility and as non Japanese speakers found communication bumpy.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Large clean room - plenty of towels and good garden view
Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA
Kyoto
Nice quiet room. Really amazing breakfast buffet. Location next to train station made navigation and transfers really accesible
Authenticity & Character
Great shower - clean and comfortable - Japanese food available at breakfast buffet
Location
2 minute walk to train station
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean. Firm beds
Activity Review
Half Day Sagano Bamboo Grove & Arashiyama Walking Tour (Join-in)
Kyoto
Yuki our guide made this our top highlight of all our time spent in Kyoto. Especially enjoyed the pacing and allowing us some peaceful time to soak in the very private Zen garden. She also moved us thru the more busy tourist areas, finding great spots for pictures and explanations. Tofu lunch was amazing, best authentic food on our entire trip in a beautiful house (glad we ate there over the temple lunch which was not available that day). Plus she sent us over 50 photos she took of our day together.
Yuki also was extra special post tour - riding the train with us to get us right to the market and taking extra time later to send suggestions for a shop in Toyko where we might find masks (we collect masks from our travels).
Yuki made the whole day exceptional
Quality of Experience
Great locations, Guide and Learnings - highly recommend (especially for the less touristy stops)
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Yuki is exceptional
Transport
it was a walking tour -
Local specialist: Cannon Xiao
Cannon Xiao
Local specialist in Japan
| Replied on Apr 30, 2026
Hi Tom and Maggy,
Thank you very much for your kind review and for sharing your feedback with us. We truly appreciate you taking the time to write such detailed comments, it means a lot to us and is very helpful for our future work.
I’m so glad to hear that you had a great time during your week in Japan! Kyoto’s gardens and temples are always a highlight, and it’s wonderful that you experienced a picture-perfect day in Hakone with views of Mt. Fuji. Tokyo can indeed feel too big for just a...
Read more
Hi Tom and Maggy,
Thank you very much for your kind review and for sharing your feedback with us. We truly appreciate you taking the time to write such detailed comments, it means a lot to us and is very helpful for our future work.
I’m so glad to hear that you had a great time during your week in Japan! Kyoto’s gardens and temples are always a highlight, and it’s wonderful that you experienced a picture-perfect day in Hakone with views of Mt. Fuji. Tokyo can indeed feel too big for just a couple of days, but I’m happy you enjoyed the Imperial Palace Gardens and the lively atmosphere in Asakusa.
Thank you again for your thoughtful words. If you ever plan to explore Japan more in depth, you are always welcome back, we would be delighted to assist you again.
Best regards,
Cannon
Great Experience
Japan
|
Mar 30 - Apr 8, 2026
Bianca N.
Miami, FL
| Reviewed on Apr 24, 2026
The trip was amazing and Cannon was very helpful with the planning and extremely responsive. He tailored the trip to our requirements and was available for any questions we had. Everything was planned perfectly and he followed up with us along the way to ensure that things were running smoothly. He even arranged to have a birthday cake delivered to our hotel! Would definitely go back to Japan and would definitely use Cannon and kimkim again!
Our tour guides were also excellent - Ken, Ayumi, Yuki, and Naoko.
Local specialist: Cannon Xiao
Cannon Xiao
Local specialist in Japan
| Replied on Apr 25, 2026
Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback!
We’re delighted to hear that you had such an amazing trip. It’s great to know the itinerary was tailored to your needs and that everything went smoothly during your journey. We’re especially glad you enjoyed the birthday surprise—it’s always our pleasure to help create special moments!
I will be sure to share your kind words with your guides Ken, Ayumi, Yuki, and Naoko—they will all be very happy to know they made your experience...
Read more
Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback!
We’re delighted to hear that you had such an amazing trip. It’s great to know the itinerary was tailored to your needs and that everything went smoothly during your journey. We’re especially glad you enjoyed the birthday surprise—it’s always our pleasure to help create special moments!
I will be sure to share your kind words with your guides Ken, Ayumi, Yuki, and Naoko—they will all be very happy to know they made your experience memorable.
Thank you again for your trust and recommendation. We would love to welcome you back to Japan in the future!
Great choices and service, poor logistics
Japan
|
Apr 4 - Apr 15, 2026
John H.
Chicago, IL
| Reviewed on Apr 17, 2026
Excellent selection of experiences and places but the logistics were somewhat lacking. Every tour, event and place was excellent and the service was great, but there were a number of logistical oversights: closed locations, special ticket requirements for the dates we were scheduled, a wrong ticket time for a train. I don't regret using the service, but I will not do so again due to the anxiety of these logistical failures.
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Excellent selection of experiences and places but the logistics were somewhat lacking. Every tour, event and place was excellent and the service was great, but there were a number of logistical oversights: closed locations, special ticket requirements for the dates we were scheduled, a wrong ticket time for a train. I don't regret using the service, but I will not do so again due to the anxiety of these logistical failures.
Activity Reviews
Quality of Experience
Food was good, especially the lobster soup
Guides, Drivers and Staff
service was a little slow, no english, but very kind and helpful
Transport
hard to find, google is bad about floor numbers
Samurai Sword Experience for Adults in Kyoto
Kyoto
Quality of Experience
very basic but fun and included the museum tour
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Kimono Rental Kyoto
Kyoto
Quality of Experience
slick shoes for rainy day is my only complaint, I fell on the temple steps but luckily was unharmed
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The recommended walking path was ridiculous, much too far
Hands-On Japanese Knife Making in Kyoto
Kyoto
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Master Tokyo's Must-Sees: 5-hour Tsukiji, Akihabara & Asakusa Highlights Tour
Tokyo
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Tokyo Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku
Tokyo
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Cannon Xiao
Cannon Xiao
Local specialist in Japan
| Replied on Apr 23, 2026
Dear John,
Thank you very much for taking the time to share your feedback. I truly appreciate your kind words about the experiences and service—we’re very glad to hear that you enjoyed the places and activities.
At the same time, I’m sincerely sorry for the logistical issues you encountered during your trip, including the scheduling oversights and the train ticket error. I completely understand how frustrating and stressful that must have felt, especially when you were expecting a smooth...
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Dear John,
Thank you very much for taking the time to share your feedback. I truly appreciate your kind words about the experiences and service—we’re very glad to hear that you enjoyed the places and activities.
At the same time, I’m sincerely sorry for the logistical issues you encountered during your trip, including the scheduling oversights and the train ticket error. I completely understand how frustrating and stressful that must have felt, especially when you were expecting a smooth and worry-free journey.
Your comments are very important to me, and I will carefully review what happened to ensure we improve our planning and coordination moving forward. I regret that this affected your overall experience and your confidence in using our service again.
Thank you again for your honest feedback. It truly helps us do better.
Warm regards,
Cannon
Incredible Japan Trip
Japan
|
Apr 5 - Apr 12, 2026
Liz B.
Los Angeles, CA
| Reviewed on Apr 13, 2026
We just got home from the most incredible trip to Japan, meticulously planned by Cannon. Every detail was thoughtfully handled—from seamless transportation to and from every destination to perfectly curated excursions.
The tours were not only fun, but genuinely interesting and informative, making the entire experience feel effortless and immersive.
Midway through the trip, we decided to head back to Tokyo from Kyoto early, and Cannon handled all the changes—bullet train tickets,...
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We just got home from the most incredible trip to Japan, meticulously planned by Cannon. Every detail was thoughtfully handled—from seamless transportation to and from every destination to perfectly curated excursions.
The tours were not only fun, but genuinely interesting and informative, making the entire experience feel effortless and immersive.
Midway through the trip, we decided to head back to Tokyo from Kyoto early, and Cannon handled all the changes—bullet train tickets, transportation, everything—completely seamlessly.
We couldn’t have asked for a better experience and are so grateful for the care and attention that went into every part of our trip.
Local specialist: Cannon Xiao
Cannon Xiao
Local specialist in Japan
| Replied on Apr 14, 2026
Hi Liz,
Cannon here! Thank you so much for your kind words. I truly appreciate your thoughtful review.
I always welcome each of my guests with deep gratitude, and it means a lot to me to be able to share the beauty and charm of Japan with you. My greatest hope is that you return home carrying not only wonderful memories, but also a heart full of happiness from your journey.
Thank you sincerely for your love of Japan. I truly look forward to the opportunity to serve you again in the future.
Best Regards
Cannon
Twice as Good: Another Seamless Family Adventure
Japan
|
Mar 18 - Apr 1, 2026
Roanne A.
Los Angeles, CA
| Reviewed on Apr 08, 2026
This is my second time using the KimKim service for my family vacation. Cannon was very responsive to all our questions and had provided many activities and planned free days where the whole family was able to enjoy. We really liked the hotels picked and convenience of locations for all of them. The itinerary went very smooth and fell in love with the country. I definitely would love to visit again.
Local specialist: Cannon Xiao
Cannon Xiao
Local specialist in Japan
| Replied on Apr 09, 2026
Dear Roanne 🙇♂️,
Thank you so much for your kind words—and for trusting me again with your family vacation. It truly means a lot to me.
I really enjoyed planning this trip for you, and I’m so happy to hear that everything went smoothly and that your family had such a wonderful time together. Knowing that you loved the hotels and enjoyed both the activities and free time is exactly what I was hoping for when designing your itinerary.
It honestly makes me so happy to hear that you fell in...
Read more
Dear Roanne 🙇♂️,
Thank you so much for your kind words—and for trusting me again with your family vacation. It truly means a lot to me.
I really enjoyed planning this trip for you, and I’m so happy to hear that everything went smoothly and that your family had such a wonderful time together. Knowing that you loved the hotels and enjoyed both the activities and free time is exactly what I was hoping for when designing your itinerary.
It honestly makes me so happy to hear that you fell in love with the country—that’s the best feedback I could ask for.
I hope I’ll have the pleasure of helping you again on your next trip to Japan. 😊
Warm regards,
Cannon
