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active 5 hours ago

Marii McDonald

Konnichiwa!
I'm Marii, and I'm a travel specialist for Japan. I have travelled extensively in Japan over the years, including with my three children who are now grown up (almost!). I understand the joys - and the challenges - of travelling.

Having been born in Japan and lived in Australia for many years, I bring a unique blend of cultural understanding and local knowledge. If you're dreaming of cherry blossoms in Spring, powder snow in Hokkaido, an autumn coloured temple trek, or an Okinawan beach holiday, I've got you covered with genuine local insight and a personal touch！

Marii is part of the following groups: Japan Travel Agents
Top itineraries and travel advice
Best Time of Year to Visit Japan
The best times to visit Japan are spring (March to May) for cherry blossoms and fall (September to November) for vibrant fall foliage, both offering pleasant weather and...
3 Days on Okinawa - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas
Over 900 miles southwest of Tokyo, Okinawa-hontō—Okinawa's main island—anchors the lesser-known string of islands straddling Japan's two southernmost prefectures. For those who...
Winter in Japan's Eastern Hokkaido: Skiing, Onsens & Volcanoes - 11 Days
Pack your warmest clothes and prepare for an 11-day winter tour in Japan's Eastern Hokkaido. Start in the capital, Sapporo, where you'll immerse yourself in Japanese culture...

Recent trip reviews for Marii

My daughter and I had an amazing time traveli...
Japan | Feb 15 - Feb 24, 2026

Penny
Penny N.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Mar 17, 2026
My daughter and I had an amazing time traveling from Osaka to Kyoto to Hakone and Tokyo. Marii was incredibly thoughtful in suggesting activities based on our interests and worked with the tour operators to accommodate her food allergy. The kimkim team was so helpful in sending daily reminders for activities, answering our questions while traveling and preparing tickets ahead of time. It made the trip much more relaxing while allowing us to fit in several cities over 8 days. The time of... Read more

My daughter and I had an amazing time traveling from Osaka to Kyoto to Hakone and Tokyo. Marii was incredibly thoughtful in suggesting activities based on our interests and worked with the tour operators to accommodate her food allergy. The kimkim team was so helpful in sending daily reminders for activities, answering our questions while traveling and preparing tickets ahead of time. It made the trip much more relaxing while allowing us to fit in several cities over 8 days.

The time of year was lovely- pre cherry blossoms so fewer crowds- but we did see plum trees in bloom! The group tours were small and very personalized. It was nice to have time to ask questions. Our favorite activity was traveling from the Hakone hot spring (lovely!) to Tokyo with such a friendly driver who took us to several spots to view Mount Fugi, including by cable car and boat. We were fortunate with a clear, sunny day. It is a special site to see! Also highly recommended any tours to see the temples and Gion district in Kyoto and Osaka dotonbori district at night for the lights and food!

Activity Reviews
Hakone to Tokyo Private Transfer: Mt. Fuji and Hakone Full-Day Tour with English-Speaking Driver
Hakone to Tokyo Private Transfer: Mt. Fuji and Hakone Full-Day Tour with English-Speaking Driver
Japan
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
No
Transport
Transfer from Odawara Train Station to Hakone Hotel
Transfer from Odawara Train Station to Hakone Hotel
Hakone
Quality of Experience
M
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kyoto Casual Pontocho Evening Food Tour
Kyoto Casual Pontocho Evening Food Tour
Kyoto

Talk was an incredible guide a delightful to spend an evening with trying loc as l food and sake. He was particularly helpful quite navigating a food allergy. Highly recommend.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Day trip to Hiroshima and Miyajima by bullet train from Osaka
Day trip to Hiroshima and Miyajima by bullet train from Osaka
Osaka

Efficient way to see Hiroshima and Miyajima in one day but it did not felt rush. Incredible tour guide!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
O
Transport
Local specialist: Marii McDonald