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Shona Zhang

With strong passion for traveling,I worked as an English-speaking guide for 10 years with travel agent.I love to travel and communicate with different tourists from all corners of the world.Traveling is the most relaxing way to get to know different people and share diverse cultures,histories and lifestyles.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"I specialize in Japan ,Thailand ,China,Myanmar,Cambodia, family tour ,honey moon ,culture visit ,biking ,cooking"

How did you get involved in travel?

"I graduated from the tourism university . My major is tourism English. After graduated I began to work as a local guide and National tour leader. l took many travel groups per year in high season, and each tour created lots of beautiful memories, which made me very happy and encouraged me to continue this career."

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"My unforgettable travel experience is queue a long time in getting on an open-air train to see animals in Changlong wildlife park in China ,when I saw the giraffes,tigers,lions,rhinoceros,flamingoes etc,they are freely roming and playing in the wildlife park ,which touched my heart.I love animals."

Shona is part of the following groups: Japan Travel Agents, Japan Family 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...
Best Time of Year To Visit Myanmar
Myanmar has three main seasons: the cool, the hot, and the rainy. Planning your visit around these seasons can help you get the most out of your visit. Each season offers its...

Recent trip reviews for Shona

Japan 2026
Japan | Jul 31 - Aug 13, 2026

L
Lauren G.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Aug 20, 2026
All of our transportation, travel and bookings went well. If anything, we could have done more on a day than what was planned or coordinated to make some trips more efficient. Read more

All of our transportation, travel and bookings went well. If anything, we could have done more on a day than what was planned or coordinated to make some trips more efficient.

Activity Reviews
Authentic Sumo Experience in Tokyo: Enter the Sanctuary
Authentic Sumo Experience in Tokyo: Enter the Sanctuary
Tokyo

10/10, would recommend to everyone!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
A Hands-on Cooking Experience: Nigiri Sushi and More
A Hands-on Cooking Experience: Nigiri Sushi and More
Tokyo
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Shona Zhang
Shona
Shona Zhang
Local specialist in Japan | Replied on Aug 20, 2026

Hi Lauren,
Greetings from Shona
You have been such wonderful and considerate guests, and I truly appreciate all the understanding, cooperation, and support you have given me throughout the planning process.

I will continue doing my very best to improve my service and make sure I can provide you with an even better experience for our next journey together.

It has been a real pleasure assisting you, and I sincerely look forward to helping you plan your next trip. ❤️
Best
Shona

Read all Japan reviews

The Boys Visit Japan
Japan | Aug 1 - Aug 10, 2026

V
Vincent W.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Aug 17, 2026
When my friends and I started planning the trip to Japan, it wasn´t clear exactly where to begin. Fortunately for us, we discovered Kimkim, and shortly after completing the preferences survey, Shona got back to us with an itinerary proposal in no time. Since then, she has remained actively engaged with us through the rest of the planning, the trip, and up to the end. In the planning phase, Kimkim´s itinerary chat allowed everyone on both sides of the chat to make and take into... Read more

When my friends and I started planning the trip to Japan, it wasn´t clear exactly where to begin. Fortunately for us, we discovered Kimkim, and shortly after completing the preferences survey, Shona got back to us with an itinerary proposal in no time. Since then, she has remained actively engaged with us through the rest of the planning, the trip, and up to the end.

In the planning phase, Kimkim´s itinerary chat allowed everyone on both sides of the chat to make and take into consideration others´ suggestions and recommendations. Shona let us know the requirements, addressed our concerns, and kept us up to date on bookings and reservations at every step, and we worked together to plan the best trip based on our budget. Thanks to this coordination, the itinerary was complete a long time before the trip. This breathing room ahead of the trip allowed for last-minute adjustments, which Shona actively managed for us.

During the trip, Shona and her team at Odynovo did not waver. From the moment we left for our trip up to when we returned, her team of coordinators, guides, and drivers was in constant communication with us. They made sure everything went smoothly, checking in to make sure we were where we planned to be and when we planned to be there; despite the language barrier.

The trip flowed seamlessly, a testament to their thoughtful planning. It was evenly paced, neither rushed nor laggy, considering the many activities we did and places we got to visit in a few days. The order of activities was well put together too. In every new place we visited, the guided days came first, followed by the self-guided days. Our tour guides were engaging and enthusiastic, intuitively showing us around, thereby boosting our morale to manoeuvre on our own and explore freely.

Leading up to the end of the trip, we only wished we had planned for more time. Shona and her team set a benchmark, a high bar, to which all trips to come, to Japan and other places around the world, will be compared. Japan is an interesting place, with a lot to offer in many aspects, and this trip, great as it was, was only an introduction, a momentous one. We look forward to returning sometime in the future, and we hope it will be just as amazing, if not more.

So, if you´re planning to visit Japan, and Shona is your agent, you´re in good hands. Actively participate in planning, remain engaged, and keep an open mind. Thanks, Kimkim, Odynovo, and thank you, Shona!

Hotel Reviews
Asakusa Tobu Hotel
Authenticity & Character
Location
It´s close to great local places to explore for a tourist.
Staff
Welcoming and friendly.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Overall, well-maintained.
Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo
Kyoto
Authenticity & Character
Location
You can walk around the local area and discover a lot with little effort.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Monterey Le Frere Osaka
Osaka
Authenticity & Character
Location
Great views from the higher floors.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Full Day Tokyo City Tour
Full Day Tokyo City Tour
Tokyo
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half Day Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kinkakuji Temple
Half Day Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kinkakuji Temple
Kyoto
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Samurai Sword Experience for Adults in Kyoto
Samurai Sword Experience for Adults in Kyoto
Kyoto
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kimono Tea Ceremony at Kyoto Maikoya
Kimono Tea Ceremony at Kyoto Maikoya
Kyoto
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kyoto Authentic Sake Tour in Fushimi: Sake Tastings & Explore Historic Breweries
Kyoto Authentic Sake Tour in Fushimi: Sake Tastings & Explore Historic Breweries
Japan
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Osaka Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai
Osaka Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai
Japan
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half Day Sagano Bamboo Grove and Tenryuji Temple Tour
Half Day Sagano Bamboo Grove and Tenryuji Temple Tour
Kyoto
Local specialist: Shona Zhang
Shona
Shona Zhang
Local specialist in Japan | Replied on Aug 18, 2026
Hi Vicent, Thank you so much for this amazing review! We're absolutely thrilled to read your kind words. It was such a pleasure helping you and your friends plan this trip, and we're overjoyed that everything went so smoothly. Our entire team will be so happy to hear your wonderful feedback – We truly care about making every journey special. Knowing that you're already thinking about coming back is the greatest compliment we could ask for! We'd love to welcome you again anytime – whether... Read more

Hi Vicent,

Thank you so much for this amazing review! We're absolutely thrilled to read your kind words.

It was such a pleasure helping you and your friends plan this trip, and we're overjoyed that everything went so smoothly. Our entire team will be so happy to hear your wonderful feedback – We truly care about making every journey special.

Knowing that you're already thinking about coming back is the greatest compliment we could ask for! We'd love to welcome you again anytime – whether it's Japan or somewhere new.

Thanks again for choosing us. Wishing you many more incredible adventures ahead!

Warmest Regards,
Shona

Read all Japan reviews

The guides make a huge difference
Japan | Aug 4 - Aug 13, 2026

W
William O.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Aug 15, 2026

Our guides (Tomoe in Tokyo and Mitch in Kyoto) were super knowledgeable and went out of their way to make sure our family was happy.

Local specialist: Shona Zhang
Shona
Shona Zhang
Local specialist in Japan | Replied on Aug 18, 2026

Dear Willam,

Thank you for sharing your experience! We're thrilled that Tomoe and Mitch provided such knowledgeable and attentive service to your family. We will make sure to share your compliments with them. We truly appreciate your trust in us and hope to see you again in the future.

Warmest Regards,
Shona

Read all Japan reviews

Our 16-day adventure through Japan was an inc...
Japan | Jun 25 - Jul 10, 2026

Daniel
Daniel M.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Jul 15, 2026
Our 16-day adventure through Japan was an incredible experience, and we truly appreciate the time and effort Shona put into helping us plan such a memorable trip. She listened to our interests, understood our family’s travel style, and provided recommendations for experiences, accommodations, and transfers that made our journey special. There were, however, a few areas where the planning and support could have been improved. We did not receive our finalized itinerary until about five days... Read more

Our 16-day adventure through Japan was an incredible experience, and we truly appreciate the time and effort Shona put into helping us plan such a memorable trip. She listened to our interests, understood our family’s travel style, and provided recommendations for experiences, accommodations, and transfers that made our journey special.

There were, however, a few areas where the planning and support could have been improved. We did not receive our finalized itinerary until about five days before departure, which limited our ability to arrange some additional activities we would have liked to include.

We also experienced a significant issue with our hotel in Okinawa. Before departing Texas, we specifically asked about the itinerary description stating “2 twin beds and room perfect for a couple getaway” because we were traveling as a family of four. Shona reassured us that the hotel had confirmed the room would be large enough to accommodate all four of us. Unfortunately, upon arrival, the room provided was not suitable for our family. Although the issue was eventually resolved by moving us to another property, the stress involved and the time lost during our vacation were disappointing and could have been avoided.

Communication during unexpected situations was another challenge. While traveling, two typhoons were approaching our route, and we reached out to Shona for guidance on whether we should continue to our next excursion/destination or adjust our plans. Unfortunately, we were unable to reach her directly and again had to use the emergency support number. While the emergency assistance was appreciated, having direct access to Shona during these important moments would have provided additional confidence and reassurance.

Overall, we had an amazing trip and are grateful for Shona’s expertise, recommendations, and the effort she put into planning our Japan adventure. The trip itself was wonderful, and her guidance helped create many unforgettable memories. With earlier delivery of the final itinerary and more reliable direct communication when unexpected issues arise, the overall experience would have been exceptional.

Local specialist: Shona Zhang
Shona
Shona Zhang
Local specialist in Japan | Replied on Jul 19, 2026
Hi Daniel, Thank you so much for taking the time to share such thoughtful feedback. I truly appreciate both your kind words and your honest suggestions. I'm delighted that your family had an amazing time in Japan and created so many wonderful memories. I also sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused by the Okinawa hotel issue. Regarding the communication during the typhoons, the main issue was unfortunately with my phone—I couldn't hear the caller's voice during phone calls. I've... Read more

Hi Daniel,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share such thoughtful feedback. I truly appreciate both your kind words and your honest suggestions.

I'm delighted that your family had an amazing time in Japan and created so many wonderful memories. I also sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused by the Okinawa hotel issue.

Regarding the communication during the typhoons, the main issue was unfortunately with my phone—I couldn't hear the caller's voice during phone calls. I've already arranged to have my phone repaired so this won't happen again. I'm truly sorry for the frustration this caused.

Thank you again for your valuable feedback. It was a pleasure helping you plan your trip, and I hope to welcome you and your family back to Japan someday!

Warm regards,
Shona

Read all Japan reviews

Well organized!
Japan | Jun 26 - Jul 5, 2026

C
Cindi H.
Harrison, NJ | Reviewed on Jul 06, 2026
Yumi and Taku were outstanding! The trip was well planned and took a lot of the stress of a first time trip to Japan away. We all would love to go back. Read more

Yumi and Taku were outstanding! The trip was well planned and took a lot of the stress of a first time trip to Japan away. We all would love to go back.

Hotel Reviews
the b asakusa
Tokyo
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Kyoto Tokyu Hotel
Kyoto
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Full Day Tour of Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Sagano Scenic Railway
Full Day Tour of Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Sagano Scenic Railway
Kyoto
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Tokyo City Tour
Full Day Tokyo City Tour
Tokyo
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Mt. Fuji with Lake Kawaguchi with Oishi Park
Full Day Mt. Fuji with Lake Kawaguchi with Oishi Park
Japan
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kyoto's Cultural Treasures: Fushimi Inari-Taisha, Nijo Castle and Kinkaku-ji
Kyoto's Cultural Treasures: Fushimi Inari-Taisha, Nijo Castle and Kinkaku-ji
Japan
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Samurai Sword Experience for Adults in Kyoto
Samurai Sword Experience for Adults in Kyoto
Kyoto
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Shona Zhang
Shona
Shona Zhang
Local specialist in Japan | Replied on Jul 08, 2026

Hi Cindi,
Thank you so much for your kind words! We're absolutely delighted to hear that Yumi and Taku made such a positive impression and that the trip helped ease the stress of your first visit to Japan. It means a lot to us that you and your family had a wonderful experience. We would be thrilled to welcome you back anytime — just say the word and we'll be here to help plan your next adventure!

Best Regards,
Shona

Read all Japan reviews

Nice trip to Japan
Japan | May 28 - Jun 10, 2026

Zvonko
Zvonko D.
Kranj, Slovenia, Europe | Reviewed on Jul 01, 2026
Overall, we had very nice trip to Japan although we had terrible start because of delayed arrival. Let me summarize key points:
- Planning part was quick and effortless. It was good that we specified pretty clearly what we would like to see, so Shona was able to put together attractive plan in just few iterations. Shona was always promptly responding to our questions and suggestions in preparation phase, and she was also actively “taking care” of us during our trip in Japan. - We... Read more

Overall, we had very nice trip to Japan although we had terrible start because of delayed arrival.

Let me summarize key points:
- Planning part was quick and effortless. It was good that we specified pretty clearly what we would like to see, so Shona was able to put together attractive plan in just few iterations. Shona was always promptly responding to our questions and suggestions in preparation phase, and she was also actively “taking care” of us during our trip in Japan.

- We were satisfied with our accommodations. It was quite smart that hotels in Kyoto and Osaka were just walking distance from railway stations; this proved convenient also when we were exploring towns on our own.

- All the commuting went smoothly. We were slightly worried about traveling with Shinkansen trains, but it was perfect.

- All our activities were executed professionally and correctly timewise. In general, we hoped that knowledge of English language would be even better, but we have been in Japan before and we know that this is a general problem. Let me repeat that all the guiding was done well, but as we are also not native English speakers, we sometimes had minor problems communicating.

At the end let me add one “friendly warning” to both Kimkim and Odynovo:
- Nowadays most of travelers know very well how to use ChatGPT, booking.com, Viator…, so it is a fair question what are the “added value reasons” for traveling with Kimkim/Odynovo. It is definitely not price or paying terms; in many cases free cancelation till last day is now part of standard conditions if you book directly. From our perspective main reasons are therefore security (to have somebody local to call in case of a need) and flexibility in case that you must or would like to change something.
o In our trip to Japan security part was perfect: Shona was always available and we had WhatApp numbers of all involved persons.
o Regarding flexibility it could be better: unfortunately, we had one serious problem at the beginning and one minor problem with cancelation of one activity. In both cases Shona was trying hard, but because even Odynovo is mostly just a “middleman”, the results were not optimal.
- I hope my friendly warning is clear: we (travellers) are more and more demanding, so you as organizers might need to be involved more than just as middlemans.

Best regards

Zvonko

Local specialist: Shona Zhang
Shona
Shona Zhang
Local specialist in Japan | Replied on Jul 02, 2026
Hi Zvonko, Thank you so much for your thoughtful and honest feedback—I truly appreciate it. I'm so glad that overall you had a wonderful trip, despite that difficult start with the delayed arrival. It means a lot to me that you found the planning smooth and felt well taken care of throughout your journey. I also really appreciate your kind words about the hotel locations and the seamless Shinkansen experience—that's exactly the kind of comfort I always hope to provide. Regarding your very... Read more

Hi Zvonko,

Thank you so much for your thoughtful and honest feedback—I truly appreciate it.

I'm so glad that overall you had a wonderful trip, despite that difficult start with the delayed arrival. It means a lot to me that you found the planning smooth and felt well taken care of throughout your journey. I also really appreciate your kind words about the hotel locations and the seamless Shinkansen experience—that's exactly the kind of comfort I always hope to provide.

Regarding your very fair "friendly warning". You're absolutely right that travellers today are more savvy and demanding than ever, and I fully agree that flexibility is where we need to step up. I'm truly sorry that in your case, despite my best efforts, the results weren't as smooth as they should have been. Please know that we've taken your words to heart, and we'll be pushing harder—both internally and with our local partners—to ensure we respond faster and more effectively when things go wrong, rather than just acting as a middleman.

Your honesty helps me grow, and I genuinely hope to have the chance to welcome you back to Japan one day—and deliver an even better experience next time.

Warmest regards,
Shona

Great support
Japan | Jun 17 - Jun 21, 2026

Julia
Julia P.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Jun 29, 2026
It was great to work with Shona on planning this trip. I was really glad for her help as I didn't have the knowledge to put together this trip myself, since I was trying to get "off the beaten track" for my trip. Everything went very well on my trip and I had the peace of mind that everything was prepared for me. Read more

It was great to work with Shona on planning this trip. I was really glad for her help as I didn't have the knowledge to put together this trip myself, since I was trying to get "off the beaten track" for my trip. Everything went very well on my trip and I had the peace of mind that everything was prepared for me.

Hotel Review
Kirishima Momijidani Seiryuso

I highly recommend this ryokan. First, the staff are exceptionally friendly and helpful! I can't say enough about how wonderful everyone was across the board. Second, I loved how remote feeling this location was. It was right outside of a small town, but the whole hotel is surrounded by forest making it feel like you are really out in nature. Third, I loved the variety of hot springs. There were two indoor options plus an outdoor onsen that was magical to visit at night. It sits right next to the rushing river. Guests can reserve time in both the private indoor and private outdoor onsen each day. Finally, the meals are exceptionally well prepared. I was especially appreciative of the chef's work to create unique meals for each of my dinners that suit me as a vegetarian.

Authenticity & Character
The private outdoor onsen next to a roaring river was an enjoyable way to relax and connect with nature.
Location
I love how the hotel feels isolated, away from everything.
Staff
All of the staff was incredibly friendly and helpful. Several of the staff speak English.
Cleanliness & Comfort
My room was very clean, comfortable, and spacious. I had a second floor room with a nice balcony looking out into the forest.
Activity Review
Day Trip Ebino Kogen Plateau & Kirishima Shrine
Day Trip Ebino Kogen Plateau & Kirishima Shrine
Kagoshima

Both Kirishima Shrine and Ebino Kogen Plateau were unique locations that I'd encourage anyone in the area to experience. Walking around the Shrine was peaceful and relaxing. Ebino Plateau was a great way to experience a different landscape and connect with the volcanic natural history of the region. I highly recommend visiting the Ebino Eco-Museum Center, especially after a hike as it is a nice way to relax and learn about the region.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Shona Zhang
Shona
Shona Zhang
Local specialist in Japan | Replied on Jun 30, 2026

Thank you very much for your kind feedback. Your recognition of the travel arrangements is truly my motivation to keep improving and delivering better service.

Hi Julia,
I sincerely appreciate your support and cooperation throughout the planning process. It has been a real pleasure assisting you.

I truly hope to have the opportunity to plan your next trip in the future. Wishing you continued success, smooth in life, and good health.
Best
Shona

We absolutely loved our trip to Japan! Shona...
Japan | Jun 12 - Jun 17, 2026

J
John P.
Minneapolis, MN | Reviewed on Jun 23, 2026
We absolutely loved our trip to Japan! Shona helped us get the balance just right, between guided experiences and independent travel. Our guides were exceptional and allowed us to cater our days and gain much more than we could have on our own. The assistance in transportation with luggage was especially appreciated. Lastly, the app was easy to use and had everything we needed in one place. We couldn't have been happier about our trip and will definitely use Kimkim again! Read more

We absolutely loved our trip to Japan! Shona helped us get the balance just right, between guided experiences and independent travel. Our guides were exceptional and allowed us to cater our days and gain much more than we could have on our own. The assistance in transportation with luggage was especially appreciated. Lastly, the app was easy to use and had everything we needed in one place.

We couldn't have been happier about our trip and will definitely use Kimkim again!

Activity Reviews
Half Day Samurai Ninja Museum and Kimono Tea Ceremony at Kyoto Maikoya
Half Day Samurai Ninja Museum and Kimono Tea Ceremony at Kyoto Maikoya
Kyoto

If we were to do it again, we'd do the Tea Ceremony and skip the Samurai Ninja Museum. Purely a matter of personal preference, but we loved the tea ceremony and didn't find the Samurai museum very engaging.

Full Day Tokyo City Tour
Full Day Tokyo City Tour
Tokyo

Moto was an exceptional tour guide. We inited him to visit us at home, because we sincerely enjoyed his company so much!

Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Shona Zhang
Shona
Shona Zhang
Local specialist in Japan | Replied on Jun 23, 2026

Hi Jhon,
Thank you so much for your lovely feedback — it really made my day! I'm so happy to hear that you loved your trip to Japan and that everything from the guides to the app worked perfectly for you. It was a true pleasure helping you plan this journey, and I'm especially glad that the balance between guided tours and free time suited your family so well.

Look forward to welcoming you back on another Kimkim trip in the future!

Best Regards,
Shona

Guides excellent
Japan | May 6 - Jun 2, 2026

Kathi
Kathi R.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Jun 09, 2026
Guides excellent, most hotels very lovely( would have liked less corporate more ryokan type stays ( I’m thinking about Kyoto and Osaka). Shona is a fantastic, prompt communicator.
We struggled with trains( tickets/QR codes, protocols) which caused unnecessary stress. Some of the activities were overly commercial and crowded but our guides generally were able to adapt and modify the outings.
If I were to plan another trip to Japan I’d spend less time in big cities and more in the... Read more

Guides excellent, most hotels very lovely( would have liked less corporate more ryokan type stays ( I’m thinking about Kyoto and Osaka). Shona is a fantastic, prompt communicator.
We struggled with trains( tickets/QR codes, protocols) which caused unnecessary stress. Some of the activities were overly commercial and crowded but our guides generally were able to adapt and modify the outings.
If I were to plan another trip to Japan I’d spend less time in big cities and more in the countryside.

Hotel Reviews
Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu
Osaka

The Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu was clean and had great amenities, but it felt too corporate, making it feel like any other modern hotel you'd find in a city. It lacked the authentic Japanese experience I was hoping for. I would have preferred a hotel with more local charm and character rather than a generic business-like atmosphere.

The Blossom Kyoto
Kyoto

The Blossom Kyoto was very elegant, but it had a very corporate and sleek hotel feel which seemed out of place for an authentic Japanese experience. It felt like staying in a modern high-rise that could be in any major city, rather than a location-specific accommodation. I would have preferred a smaller, more intimate place with a genuine local feel.

Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu
Hakone

Beautiful setting and onsen. Great breakfast

Authenticity & Character
Quiet elegance
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Onyado Nono Asakusa Bettei
Tokyo

Beautiful, fun neighborhood, authentic Japanese environment -great breakfast and onsen

Authenticity & Character
Location
Tiny quiet street but close to all the action
Staff
Attentive staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Osaka Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai
Osaka Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai
Japan

The Osaka Local Foodie Tour in Dotonbori and Shinsekai was enjoyable with a delightful guide, but the food didn’t quite live up to our expectations as foodies. In our California understanding, a foodie tour entails gourmet experiences, but this was akin to indulging in fast food, with items that felt more like carnival fare. While the guide was great, we didn’t feel that the tour provided anything beyond what we could find on our own.

Naoshima Island: a World of Art - Day 2
Naoshima Island: a World of Art - Day 2
Naoshima

The day trip to the Miho Museum was amazing. The architectural masterpiece by I. M. Pei, combined with the stunning natural surroundings in the mountains, made it a truly incredible experience. As avid museum-goers with a deep appreciation for the arts, we found this particular museum stand out during our trip. It was a beautiful and inspiring visit, although I wish we'd had more time to fully absorb it.

Kimono Tea Ceremony at Kyoto Maikoya
Kimono Tea Ceremony at Kyoto Maikoya
Kyoto

The Kimono Tea Ceremony at Kyoto Maikoya was interesting but felt very commercial and assembly-line like. It was cute and fun, with everyone dressing up in kimonos, but the experience felt contrived, like a huge factory of people just going through the motions. I would have preferred a more authentic, perhaps more intimate or private ceremony, possibly with a home visit. Overall, it wasn't something I would recommend to others.

Local specialist: Shona Zhang
Shona
Shona Zhang
Local specialist in Japan | Replied on Jun 10, 2026

Hi Kathi,

Thank you so much for your lovely message!
I'm really happy you enjoyed our guides and found me helpful and prompt — that means a lot to me.
You're absolutely right about the trains and crowded spots — I'm sorry they caused stress, and I truly appreciate your honesty. I'm glad our guides could adapt along the way.
Thank you again for trusting us with your journey. It would be a joy to welcome you back to Japan anytime.
Warmly,
Shona

Japan!
Japan | Mar 10 - Mar 23, 2026

Dawn
Dawn P.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on May 14, 2026

My husband and I contacted Shona with only a 5 week lead time on an improptu trip to Japan to spend time with our daughters. Shona did an outstanding job of arranging transport and guides who were not only well educated in Japan's history, but were also fun to talk to and spend the day with. Our guides expertly shared their knowledge of cultural icons, food, and helped us navigate lunches at restaurants.
KimKim receives two thumbs up and five stars from me and my family!!!

Local specialist: Shona Zhang
Shona
Shona Zhang
Local specialist in Japan | Replied on May 15, 2026

Hi Ed and Dawn,
I want to sincerely thank you for your wonderful feedback. Your kindness, positive energy, cooperative spirit, and optimistic attitude towards others truly made working with you a joy. I have also learned so much from you throughout this journey.

It would be an honor if you choose KK as your first choice for your next trip. Please rest assured that my team and I will continue to strive even harder to provide you with the very best service and an unforgettable travel experience.

Thank you once again for your generosity and trust.

Warm regards,
Shona