Peter Gruenzig-Sugiya

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"After joining travel industry I was first specialized in touring historic sites such as Japanese castles, gardens, temples, and shrines, as well as gentle hiking and cycling tours and nature walks across Japan.

Now I'm specialized in designing tailor-made itineraries that combine Japan’s must-see highlights with quieter, lesser-known gems. Picture wandering Kyoto’s old lanes, learning the craft of wagashi sweets, or enjoying a small, intimate tea ceremony. Head out for scenic hikes and fresh mountain air in Hakone or visit the magnificent UNESCO-listed Himeji Castle, one of Japan’s most celebrated historic landmarks.

Whether you’re drawn to traditional craftsmanship, striking landscapes, or genuine cultural moments, I will shape a journey around what excites you most and help you experience Japan at its most authentic."

How did you get involved in travel?

"After completing my studies in 2009, I started working at a travel company in Germany, designing group study trips to Japan. Having also guided travel groups across Japan for more than three years, I gained a profound appreciation for the country’s landscapes, traditions, and warm hospitality. My passion for Japan’s culture and history continues to inspire both my work and my personal life."

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"My most unique travel experience was an evening in Hakone, watching the sunset from the summit of Mt. Komagatake, a peak rising from the ancient Hakone caldera. Looking out across the edge of the caldera as the red light shimmered on the sea and on Lake Ashi far below was unforgettable."