Hannie Ngo
Hi, my name is Hannie and I am a travel specialist here on kimkim who will help you design memorable trips to Japan and South Korea.
Being an avid traveller myself, I believe that travelling is one of the very few things that can genuinely benefit our personal growth, broaden our perspective, and help us get in touch with ourselves in ways that go beyond our own comprehension.
We all look for something in particular when we travel, be it the natural wonders of the world, the history, the food, the sheer humanity found in the most surprising corners of the world, or simply a good time with our loved ones. Whichever purpose it may be, the key is to get out there and find out for yourself!
What places and activities do you specialize in?
"As someone who has spent all my early 20s in Seoul and travelled across South Korea and Japan extensively every year, I am delighted to share my knowledge and experiences in these two countries with you. Whether you're interested in a skiing trip in the winter, a cherry blossom dream in spring or a magnificent foliage in autumn, a full-course omakase meal, K-beauty makeovers, or anything and everything in between, I've got you. "
How did you get involved in travel?
"My love of travel began with weekend road trips in the North Island of New Zealand during my teenage years. It only deepens as I grow older and have a chance to meet people from all over the world in schools and at work.
When I see a beautiful sight in a foreign place, I often think, "Wow, if only everyone in the world could see what I'm seeing right now, then maybe the world would be in a much better place because the scary unknown has now been known." And so naturally, working in travel was a path I decided to pursue, in the hope we all could get a glimpse of how beautiful our world can be. "
Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.
"Though all my travels have been pretty spectacular, the few experiences that always make me look back with fondness are the early morning boat ride on the tranquil Ganges river in the spiritual town of Varanasi, India, cycling through the winding roads as the rice fields are swimming in my vision in the rural part of Bali, and that feeling of relief and elation when I step into Meiji Shrine located in the heart of the metropolitan Tokyo for the very first time and the noise of the outside world suddenly comes to a complete halt. "
Hannie's favorite itineraries and travel advice
Top itineraries and travel advice
Japan's train system makes it possible to visit at least four regions in 16 days. First-timers will enjoy guided tours of the Meiji Jingu Shrine and other landmarks. Foodies can...
Ten days between Japan and South Korea is an excellent amount of time to immerse yourself in the wonders of Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Seoul on a highlights tour or a culinary...
On this well-planned 15-day tour, you'll visit some of Japan's finest art museums, sample some of its most delicious food (and have a go making some yourself), and participate...
Family itineraries
With 10 days in Japan, you can introduce young travelers to Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo's futuristic theme parks and exciting cuisine on a family highlights tour. Or, for a...
Active travelers will love this 10-day adventure that takes you down a portion of the iconic 330-mile-long Nakasendo Trail. After a restful night in Tokyo, head to the post town...
This immersive 14-day cultural adventure starts in Osaka, where you'll sample renowned cuisine and stroll through ancient shrines. Take a day trip to Kobe for its coveted beef,...
Luxury itineraries
Escape to tranquil gardens and forest temples on this luxury 10-day tour through Japan's most peaceful sacred spaces. In Tokyo, you'll tour iconic shrines, stroll 17th-century...
Immerse yourself in Japan's delectable cuisine and its world-class dining scene with this weeklong luxury tour spread across stays at Tokyo and Kyoto's top hotels. Your journey...
This two-week tour combines luxurious stays at 5-star hotels with a relaxed exploration of Japan's cultural and natural highlights. Start in the capital with Michelin dining and...