Profile photo for Eleanor Chen
2424 messages
active 10 mins ago

Eleanor Chen

Hello from Japan! I'm Eleanor, your local specialist with over a decade of experience in creating memorable travel experiences. With my passion for food, culture, and nature, I thrive on customizing itineraries that unveil the true essence of Japan in all its beauty! Whether you're craving the bustling streets of Tokyo, the serene vibe of Kyoto, or the vibrant energy of Osaka's dynamic cityscape, I've got you covered!

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"Japan! I specialize in tailoring culture visits, nature sightseeing, mountain hikes, and foodie tours in Japan for travelers of all kinds. My mission is to engage you in Japan's rich tapestry of traditions, foods, and hidden gems while ensuring a seamless, worry-free trip. "

How did you get involved in travel?

"I always love to travel, learn about the culture, and eat! That is why I started my career in the travel industry as a local specialist and have rooted with passion for over 10 years. I was very lucky to live on what I love after graduating. Chatting with people from all around the world, helping them with their travel, and listening to their happy travel experiences bring me a ton of satisfaction and enjoyment. Until now, I have helped travelers from more than 30 countries tailor-make their trips to Japan."

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"I'll never forget the amazing experience of exploring the vibrant streets of Tokyo's Shinjuku district at night! The neon lights, bustling crowds, and eclectic mix of shops and restaurants created an electrifying atmosphere unlike anything I'd ever experienced. Navigating the labyrinthine alleys filled with izakayas (Japanese pubs) and karaoke bars, I felt completely captured by the energy of the city. Sampling delicious street food and interacting with locals added to the excitement, making it a night to remember forever."

Eleanor is part of the following groups: Japan Travel Agents
Top itineraries and travel advice
Family itineraries
Luxury itineraries
Road trip itineraries
Honeymoon itineraries

Recent trip reviews for Eleanor

Seeing Japan and working with Kimkim for the first time.
Japan | Nov 7 - Nov 21, 2024

C
Carol M.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Nov 26, 2024
My husband and I used Kimkim for the first time to help us plan a trip to Japan. Eleanor was responsive to all our requests and communications during the planning phases of our trip. Her thoroughness and attention to details made us feel Kimkim would be able to help us if problems arose. The locations of hotels she recommended were ideal in accessing the public transportation and sites we wanted to visit. The logistics of transporting us from airports and train stations to hotels were... Read more

My husband and I used Kimkim for the first time to help us plan a trip to Japan. Eleanor was responsive to all our requests and communications during the planning phases of our trip. Her thoroughness and attention to details made us feel Kimkim would be able to help us if problems arose. The locations of hotels she recommended were ideal in accessing the public transportation and sites we wanted to visit. The logistics of transporting us from airports and train stations to hotels were excellent. The drivers made contact with us the day before, sent photos of the cars and license plates and were always waiting for us when we arrived. We had arranged several private guides in Kyoto and Tokyo. The guides also texted us the day before our tour and confirmed details. The guides and drivers collaborated smoothly and allowed us to be flexible if we wanted to modify our tour. In Tokyo, For the 'night life' tour in Tokyo, our guide Ryoji maneuvered us through crowds and narrow alleys to experience up close the vitality of the entertainment district. We had requested a special tour of Ginza district architecture and during the planning stage, the agency contacted us directly to learn more about what we were interested in. We were delighted by Haruka's tour - it was exactly what we had hoped for. She brought illustrations of earthquake-resilience construction that enhanced our understanding of what we were seeing. In Kyoto, it was awkward because the guide had been told our tour would last all day, but we had clarified that we did not want a tour longer than 3 -4 hours. We learned that it was best to sit down together before starting a tour and talk about what was planned, then explain to the guide what our preferences were and our target time to end.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Villa Fontaine Premier Haneda Airport

We were at Hotel Villa Fontaine Premier for only 1 night to rest after the international flight and prepare for a domestic flight the next morning. I wish we could have stayed several more days. The amenities were lovely, the breakfast was elegant, and overall it was very comfortable. The staff went out of their way to assist us.

Authenticity & Character
Japanese breakfast
Location
convenient to Haneda airport;
Staff
all were gracious to us
Cleanliness & Comfort
linens, amenities, pajamas
The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Kyoto

Royal Park Hotel was my favorite of the entire trip. The room design, with movable screens made maximum use of space. The beds were comfortable, linens and guest pajamas were wonderful. The breakfasts were elegant and served with care. The extra feature of afternoon lounge hours were a perfect break in the day. The space was relaxing and simple for planning our evenings out. The amenities were high quality.

Authenticity & Character
Location
There was a metro stop in the same block, we could easily walk to small neighborhoods and restaurants.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel, A Pan Pacific Partner Hotel

The bed was too soft and I was not able to sleep on it. Fortunately there was a couch so I asked for extra blankets and made it work. There were lots of options at the buffet breakfast but the quality and variety was disappointing.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Shibuyan was perfect for public transportation and restaurants
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
firmer beds
Local specialist: Eleanor Chen
Eleanor
Eleanor Chen
Local specialist in Japan and China | Replied on Nov 28, 2024
Dear Carol, Hope you are doing great.Thank you so much for your wonderful review.I am thrilled to hear that you and your husband had such a fantastic experience planning your trip to Japan with me and the rest of our team. It’s great to know that our attention to detail and communication made you feel supported throughout the process. We're especially pleased to hear that the hotel locations worked perfectly for your sightseeing and that the logistics of your transportation were seamless.... Read more

Dear Carol,

Hope you are doing great.Thank you so much for your wonderful review.I am thrilled to hear that you and your husband had such a fantastic experience planning your trip to Japan with me and the rest of our team. It’s great to know that our attention to detail and communication made you feel supported throughout the process.

We're especially pleased to hear that the hotel locations worked perfectly for your sightseeing and that the logistics of your transportation were seamless. It's also wonderful that the private guides in Kyoto and Tokyo added value to your experience, and that they were proactive in confirming details with you.

Thank you once again for choosing Kimkim for your journey. We hope to assist you in your future travels.

All the best,
Eleanor

My trip to Japan was awesome.
Japan | Oct 2 - Oct 22, 2024

S
Stephanie R.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Nov 12, 2024
My trip to Japan was awesome. Eleanor, my representative from KimKim, worked hard to make sure that all of my wishes were included on my itinerary. I had a blast at the Sumo Wrestler stable, the hedgehog cafe, lacquer store where I was able to finish painting a design on a small tray, seeing the city of Sapporo from the top of the Olympic ski jump, and using my skills to find a particular restaurant in Sagamihara where I used to eat the most delicious gyoza many years ago. (And yes it is... Read more

My trip to Japan was awesome. Eleanor, my representative from KimKim, worked hard to make sure that all of my wishes were included on my itinerary. I had a blast at the Sumo Wrestler stable, the hedgehog cafe, lacquer store where I was able to finish painting a design on a small tray, seeing the city of Sapporo from the top of the Olympic ski jump, and using my skills to find a particular restaurant in Sagamihara where I used to eat the most delicious gyoza many years ago. (And yes it is still open after 40+ years!). All of this would not have been possible without the help of Eleanor and the private guides that I had in each city for a day. I would definitely use their services again on another trip. I do like being able to discover places on my own but having a one day guide in each city increased my confidence and gave me information that I wouldn't have known on my own.

Hotel Reviews
Royal Park Hotel Tokyo Nihonbashi
Tokyo

Super convenient location with the subway station being under the hotel. Great included breakfast buffet. Wonderful registation and concierge staff that were able to help me transfer my luggage by courier to my next location so that I could travel luggage free on public transportation. Only down side to this hotel is that they do not have self-serve guest laundry machines, but I was able to find a public pay laundromat just about one or two blocks away. Very easy to use just needed Google translate to work the machines!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Cleanliness & Comfort
Residence Hotel Takayama Station

Very interesting small hotel in Takayama. I can see how this hotel could be used as a long-stay place. The room was comfortable, nice batieGood location to food, and convenience stores. I would choose this hotel again if I ever found myself in the area. Also, the registration staff was extremely helpful with luggage service to my next location, making calls to help with the language barrier, and overall answers to my questions,

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kanazawa-Eki Nishiguchi
Kanazawa

Have you ever heard the saying location, location, location? Well, the saying fits this hotel. Adjacent to the bus station, and a short 5 minute walk from the train station makes it very convenient. Again, the front desk staff was very helpful and friendly. Would stay here again if in the area.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Marunouchi Hotel

This hotel was also in a very good location in relation to public transportation. Helpful and friendly staff, and a clean and inviting atmosphere. I would stay here again if in the area.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Mitsui Garden Hotel Sapporo West
Sapporo

This hotel was also in a very good location in relation to public transportation. Helpful and friendly staff, and a clean and inviting atmosphere. I would stay here again if in the area.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Full Day Tokyo City Tour with Tsukiji Outer Fish Market
Full Day Tokyo City Tour with Tsukiji Outer Fish Market
Tokyo

Super fun but soooo crowded. I would prefer to see it at a less crowded time.

Guides, Drivers and Staff
Authentic Sumo Experience in Tokyo: Enter the Sanctuary
Authentic Sumo Experience in Tokyo: Enter the Sanctuary
Tokyo

Oh boy! I Ioved this experience! I would definitely suggest this experience if you are even just a little bit interested in sumo. I had the opportunity to watch some wrestlers show us some of their exercises and even let the participants get in the ring to try to do them with guidance. At the end of the demonstration each group participant had the oppertunity to get in the ring once again and try to out-do the pros by pushing them out of the ring. We were able to put on an informal kimono and have our pictures taken in the ring with both wrestlers. After the demonstration was done, we were invited to have a hotpot lunch made by the wrestlers in a very informal setting were we could ask questions and get the answers from the sumos. I really liked this experience. It is suitable for families with children of about 8+ years old.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Takayama City Tour
Full Day Takayama City Tour
Takayama

I had a wonderful day here with my private guide. It was during a festival that I visited and was able to try many different foods from the street venders as well as see the parade of Japanese shrines. Learned quite a bit about the history with my guide. I would definately go to visit here again if in the area. It is a breath of fresh air after spending time in the busy city of Tokyo.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Kenrokuen, Kanazawa Castle & Tea Culture Tour
Full Day Kenrokuen, Kanazawa Castle & Tea Culture Tour
Kanazawa

Wow! What a beautiful area to visit. I had a great day with my private guide and learned quite a bit of new information regarding the area. I would visit this area again if in Japan.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sapporo City Discovery with Genghis Khan BBQ and Sapporo Beer Tasting
Sapporo City Discovery with Genghis Khan BBQ and Sapporo Beer Tasting
Sapporo

The Sapporo Brewery is a sight to behold. It is a beautiful brick building the has been well maintained and houses a museum of the beer industry in Sapporo. My guide was great at pointing out details that I would have missed in being there on my own. I didn't take advantage of the BBQ or the beer tasting, as those things don't appeal to me. Instead we ate at a smaller local restaruant and had great ramen and gyoza! If in the area I would suggest visiting the Olympic stadium, Clock Tower, and the Sapporo TV tower.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Eleanor Chen
Eleanor
Eleanor Chen
Local specialist in Japan and China | Replied on Nov 18, 2024
Dear Stephanie, Hope you are doing fantastic.Thank you so much for your wonderful review. We're thrilled to hear that you had an amazing trip to Japan and that I was able to tailor your itinerary to include all your wishes. It sounds like you had a fantastic time exploring unique experiences like the Sumo Wrestler stable and the hedgehog café, as well as revisiting the restaurant where you enjoyed gyoza decades ago. We're glad that the private guides enhanced your journey and boosted your... Read more

Dear Stephanie,

Hope you are doing fantastic.Thank you so much for your wonderful review. We're thrilled to hear that you had an amazing trip to Japan and that I was able to tailor your itinerary to include all your wishes. It sounds like you had a fantastic time exploring unique experiences like the Sumo Wrestler stable and the hedgehog café, as well as revisiting the restaurant where you enjoyed gyoza decades ago. We're glad that the private guides enhanced your journey and boosted your confidence in discovering new places. We appreciate your kind words and look forward to helping you plan your next adventure.

Best regards as always,
Eleanor

Amazing Japan
Japan | Oct 31 - Nov 11, 2024

Barry
Barry R.
Baton Rouge, LA | Reviewed on Nov 12, 2024

All three of our guides were very responsive, knowledgeable, and friendly. I would highly recommend them.

Local specialist: Eleanor Chen
Eleanor
Eleanor Chen
Local specialist in Japan and China | Replied on Nov 18, 2024

Dear Barry,

Greetings from Eleanor.Thank you so much for your kind words. We're thrilled to hear that you had a great experience with our guides. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we hope to have the pleasure of serving you again in the future.

Wish you happy all the time.

All the best,
Eleanor

Everything was amazing to trips plans, driver...
Japan | Sep 26 - Oct 2, 2024

J
Joleen L.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Oct 09, 2024

Everything was amazing to trips plans, drivers and tour guides. Hats off to all of you!

Local specialist: Eleanor Chen
Eleanor
Eleanor Chen
Local specialist in Japan and China | Replied on Oct 12, 2024

DearJoleen,

Hope you are doing fantastic.

Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback. We are thrilled to hear that you had an amazing experience with our trip plans, drivers, and tour guides.

Your kind words mean a lot to us, and we appreciate your support. We hope to welcome you back on another adventure soon.

Warm regards,
Eleanor

Another great trip organized with KimKim.
Japan | Sep 26 - Oct 2, 2024

Lori
Lori S.
San Ramon, CA | Reviewed on Oct 04, 2024
Another great trip organized with KimKim. Eleanor and her guides/drivers were amazing. We loved every minute. Read more

Another great trip organized with KimKim. Eleanor and her guides/drivers were amazing. We loved every minute.

Hotel Reviews
Asakusa View Hotel Annex Rokku

Great and convenient.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
THE HOTEL HIGASHIYAMA by Kyoto Tokyu Hotel
Kyoto

Great location, friendly staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Full Day Tokyo City Tour with Tsukiji Outer Fish Market
Full Day Tokyo City Tour with Tsukiji Outer Fish Market
Tokyo

Really informative and complete.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Eleanor Chen
Eleanor
Eleanor Chen
Local specialist in Japan and China | Replied on Oct 07, 2024

Dear Lori,

Hope you have a great day and thank you so much for your kind words. We're thrilled to hear that you had such a wonderful experience on your trip organized with KimKim. It's great to know that the guides and drivers made your journey memorable.

We're also glad you enjoyed your stays at both the Asakusa View Hotel Annex and THE HOTEL HIGASHIYAMA. Their convenient locations and friendly staff always make for a pleasant experience. We look forward to helping you plan your next adventure.

Safe travels!

Best regards from Asia,
Eleanor

Wonderful Japan!
Japan | Sep 1 - Sep 15, 2024

R
Raquel M.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Sep 16, 2024
Had a wonderful time in Japan. Can't thank Elenor enough for a very thoughtful plan and for the extra support while on the trip.
Both our guides in Tokyo (Yumi) and Kyoto (Yuki) were delightful and very knowledgeable. Nara was a highlight as we loved the temples and the deer.
Read more

Had a wonderful time in Japan. Can't thank Elenor enough for a very thoughtful plan and for the extra support while on the trip.
Both our guides in Tokyo (Yumi) and Kyoto (Yuki) were delightful and very knowledgeable. Nara was a highlight as we loved the temples and the deer.

Hotel Review
Cross Hotel Kyoto
Kyoto

Spacious and nice room in great location

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Eleanor Chen
Eleanor
Eleanor Chen
Local specialist in Japan and China | Replied on Sep 17, 2024

Hi Raquel,

Hope you are doing great and thank you for all the kind words!

Your positive feedback makes my day even more lovely :) I'm sure Yumi & Yuki will be thrilled to hear your compliment, and it's so great that Japan, especially Nara, could offer you a wonderful time!

Looking forward to helping you with an unforgettable trip to Japan again to discover more about this beautiful country!

Have a nice day,
Eleanor