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Odynovo Tours Co., Ltd

We are a tour operator with a dedicated team of local specialists in Japan, South Korea, Thailand, the Philippines, and China who are enthusiastic about delivering exceptional service. Using our solid local connections and extensive knowledge of the destinations, we will help you create your dream vacation. Every year, thousands of discerning travelers work with us to customize their trips. Over 90% of them rate their experience as excellent. It's easy to see why: they get the experience created based on their interests and needs, travel without hassle as every detail is well taken care of, and return with memories that will last for a lifetime.

Odynovo Tours Co., Ltd is part of the following groups: Japan Travel Agents, Cambodia Travel Agents, China Travel Agents

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Top itineraries and travel advice

Recent Trip Reviews for Odynovo Tours Co., Ltd

JAPAN: Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka
Japan | Oct 8 - Oct 17, 2025

A
Adrienne F.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Nov 02, 2025
The itinerary had early mornings and it presented some challenges particularly on hotel-change days, you’re up early, you arrive at the next destination, and then end up losing a lot of time just waiting around. Check out time is typicallt 10:00am and check in time is 3:00pm. Hotels allow for early bag drop off which is great but you're dropping off your bags, lined up with everyone in the same area as those checking out. By then you’re usually tired from the travel itself and could really... Read more

The itinerary had early mornings and it presented some challenges particularly on hotel-change days, you’re up early, you arrive at the next destination, and then end up losing a lot of time just waiting around. Check out time is typicallt 10:00am and check in time is 3:00pm. Hotels allow for early bag drop off which is great but you're dropping off your bags, lined up with everyone in the same area as those checking out. By then you’re usually tired from the travel itself and could really use a shower or short rest, but instead you’re stuck filling the day — until check-in time. The result is you start the evening already exhausted, with little energy left for anything social.
As an example, I arrived in Osaka at 10:30 am, couldn’t check in until 3:00 pm, walked around for hours, had lunch, and by the time I finally got into my room, my feet were sore, I was overheated, and just wanted to shower and rest. I unpacked, repacked for the next day, and ended up too tired to go out my last night — which became a theme of this trip. I definitely packed too much into each day and would recommend doing less each and extending your time in each city.
That pacing would give more time to actually enjoy each city rather than rushing through it. Frequent hotel changes really take a toll!

Even though I didn't travel during peak season, the crowds were intense. Kyoto was especially overwhelming — Kiyomizu-dera Temple were shoulder-to-shoulder, and after 4 hours I still hadn’t reached the actual temple. In the Gion district, the narrow alley ways were intensely crowded to the point of being frustrating. I eventually gave up and found a tiny English pub — something I could easily do back home :(

One last note — tattoos are still a challenge in Japan. I was stared at or ignored in several places, including restaurants and at both tattoo friendly sento and onsen, which left me feeling self-conscious - with that said there were more moments of feeling welcomed. I often ended up eating lunch and dinner from convenience stores — the food there was great, varied and affordable but I missed out on restaurant experiences. It might be worth mentioning to other solo female travellers with visible tattoos that they could face that kind of reaction, just so they’re prepared.

Eleanor my travel coordinator was exceptional and went WAY beyond my expectations in her attention to care and accommodation. Thank you again Eleanor for all the care and detail you put into planning this trip — you’ve been wonderful - before / during and after my Japan adventure

Hotel Review
Yuno Yado Shoei

My stay at Yuno Yado Shoei was an absolute highlight of my trip — a deeply traditional and genuinely restorative experience. From the moment I arrived, the hospitality was warm, attentive, and unhurried in that distinctly Japanese way that makes you feel truly welcomed The ryokan itself is elegant and peaceful, with every detail — from the tatami rooms to the onsen — designed for comfort and calm. The meals were beautifully presented and thoughtfully prepared, offering a real taste of regional Kyoto cuisine. I also appreciated how quiet and respectful the entire atmosphere was; it created a sense of stillness that’s rare to find while travelling If you’re looking for an authentic ryokan stay that honours tradition without feeling touristy, Yuno Yado Shoei is the perfect choice. I left feeling grounded, rested, and grateful for the experience 🖤

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Private Tokyo City Tour with Cemetery & Harajuku
Private Tokyo City Tour with Cemetery & Harajuku
Tokyo

Yumi was absolutely integral to my Tokyo experience. As a solo traveller, I couldn’t have asked for a better guide — warm, knowledgeable, funny, and genuinely charming. She instantly made me feel at ease and curated the tour perfectly to my interests, blending local history, hidden neighbourhood gems, and everyday cultural moments in a way that felt natural and immersive Her storytelling and humour brought Tokyo to life, and the day flowed effortlessly — never rushed, always intentional. We ended the tour sharing sake together, which was the perfect way to wrap up such a meaningful experience. It felt less like a guided tour and more like spending the day with a dear friend who loves her city and wants you to love it too Exploring Tokyo with Yumi was unforgettable — thoughtful, personal, and full of heart 🖤

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Yumi!!!!
Transport
Transit in Tokyo is extremely organized and easy to navigate - even for English only speakers
Local specialist: Eleanor Chen
Eleanor
Eleanor Chen
Local specialist in Japan and China | Replied on Nov 03, 2025

Hi Adrienne,

Thank you so much for your lovely review and for sharing your feedback!!! It was such a joy working with you (I truly felt like I was on this wonderful journey right alongside you 😊). I'll share your kind words with Yumi; your appreciation will mean so much to her and keep her inspired to share her city with more travelers! Thanks again!

All the best,
Eleanor

Whenever I return to Japan, Sandy is the firs...
Japan | Oct 26 - Oct 26, 2025

Sabrina
Sabrina P.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Nov 01, 2025
Whenever I return to Japan, Sandy is the first person I will contact for planning support. Her kindness, meticulousness, and attentiveness have always stood out — especially during my solo travels as a woman. Read more

Whenever I return to Japan, Sandy is the first person I will contact for planning support. Her kindness, meticulousness, and attentiveness have always stood out — especially during my solo travels as a woman.

Activity Review
Tokyo Private Driver One-Day Itinerary (updated-2)
Tokyo Private Driver One-Day Itinerary (updated-2)
Tokyo
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Sandy Ren

Spot on Trip Planning!
Japan | Oct 16 - Oct 30, 2025

Chris
Chris O.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Nov 01, 2025
Kimkim made our trip to Hokkaido and Osaka so easy and enjoyable! We were able to customize the experience to what our interests were and our guide in Hokkaido, Jenny, absolutely was one of the best parts. Jenny was observant to our needs and informative about the local culture. Being a little detail-oriented, it gave me a little anxiety of 'letting go' from planning the whole trip however, Angel was extremely responsive and able to assist with any questions, whenever we needed help. Read more

Kimkim made our trip to Hokkaido and Osaka so easy and enjoyable! We were able to customize the experience to what our interests were and our guide in Hokkaido, Jenny, absolutely was one of the best parts. Jenny was observant to our needs and informative about the local culture. Being a little detail-oriented, it gave me a little anxiety of 'letting go' from planning the whole trip however, Angel was extremely responsive and able to assist with any questions, whenever we needed help.

Hotel Reviews
Cross Hotel Sapporo
Sapporo

This property is centrally located with lots to do in the area and easy to get to the train station. Make sure to take time to enjoy the beautiful onsen! There's a nice quiet space next to the onsen that overlooks the city. The breakfast buffet was well done as well.

Authenticity & Character
Location
It was close to the train station.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Nozo Hotel
furano

We had a Deluxe King room which had a little sitting space. The team at this property was so welcoming and helpful. We took advantage of the in-room massages with Naomi and she did an outstanding job with relaxing us after a long day of sightseeing. Their Sugi Spa is beautifully designed. There is a dry sauna and a cold plunge, which was extra enjoyable to unwind with.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
The staff at this hotel went out of their way to accommodate your needs. We had arrived by private car so did not have transportation to get around town. The front desk agent called us a cab to go to the cheese factory one afternoon and they had us call them to order a cab for the return ride. It was convenient and made it easy for us! They were also responsive to our requests for the in-room spa appointments. The restaurant staff was super enjoyable to converse with.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Noboribetsu Onsen Dai-ichi Takimotokan

I wish we could have stayed here longer. Our room was spectacular, with a private onsen on our balcony, overlooking Hell Valley and the beautiful color-changing foliage! The Premium Twin room was spacious, the amenities were first-class and the Kaiseki dinner and set breakfast were out of this world.

Authenticity & Character
You could wear your provided yukata to your meals.
Location
Our room, in the West Building, overlooked Hell Valley and beautiful fall foliage.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu

This hotel is convenient to the Hommachi train station and is centrally located for all of your Osaka activities. We had a Superior Double Room and the accommodations are cozy but comfortable.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The rooms are a bit cozy and there's really no closet so you end up living out of your suitcase but they do an amazing job.
Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza Premier
Tokyo

The location is near the center of Ginza so lots of convenient shopping/dining.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Sapporo City Discovery with Genghis Khan BBQ and Sapporo Beer Tasting
Sapporo City Discovery with Genghis Khan BBQ and Sapporo Beer Tasting
Sapporo

We loved learning more about Sapporo with Jenny! We were able to see many different sights and Jenny was helpful and made it a fun experience!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Leather goods experience in Otaru
Leather goods experience in Otaru
Otaru

We had a personalized experience, making a key chain as well as a tray and the overall experience was fun and we came away with a couple of useful souvenirs. It would have been nice to know the relevance of the leather to Otaru.

Quality of Experience
Any information on what makes the leather so important to Otaru.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
More information
Immerse in A Sea of Flowers: Farm Tomita Tour
Immerse in A Sea of Flowers: Farm Tomita Tour
Furano

Although the weather was a bit rainy and cold, it was still beautiful!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Biei Discovery: Blue Pond and Shirahige Falls
Biei Discovery: Blue Pond and Shirahige Falls
Biei

We really enjoyed seeing the Pond and Falls. We happened to catch it on a good day when the sun was out but I understand that the color changes with the weather so you may want to be mindful of that.

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

We had a great time experiencing the local foods with Hide!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Hide was genuine and a wonderful guide!
Transport
Full Day Noboribetsu Hell Valley and Date Jidaimura Tour
Full Day Noboribetsu Hell Valley and Date Jidaimura Tour
Noboribetsu

We went to see a couple of the shows at Date Jidaimura, the Samurai show along with a Geisha show. Both were interesting and the staff did a nice job. Jenny helped capture some nice photos of us and took us to the foot bath near Hell Valley.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Angel Tang
Angel
Angel Tang
Local specialist in Japan | Replied on Nov 01, 2025
Hi Victor & Chris, Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a wonderful review! I’m delighted to hear that you had an amazing time exploring Japan and that the trip went smoothly across all the cities. It was a pleasure working with you to bring your itinerary together, and I’m happy to know that our support made your experience enjoyable and stress-free. I will share more guidance and resources in some self-guided activity sections, so that people can better understand and plan... Read more

Hi Victor & Chris,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a wonderful review! I’m delighted to hear that you had an amazing time exploring Japan and that the trip went smoothly across all the cities. It was a pleasure working with you to bring your itinerary together, and I’m happy to know that our support made your experience enjoyable and stress-free.

I will share more guidance and resources in some self-guided activity sections, so that people can better understand and plan these parts according to their needs.

The English proficiency of our drivers also needs to be improved a bit. We will immediately bring this suggestion to the supplier's attention so that our clients can have a better experience.

Once again, thank you for taking the valuable time to share your opinions and suggestions with us.

Wishing you and your family all the best in your future travels, and I hope we’ll have the chance to plan another adventure together!

Warm regards,

Angel

Above expectations!
Japan | Oct 15 - Oct 28, 2025

Carol
Carol M.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Oct 29, 2025

The service provided by Shona was above expectations. She responded immediately to all our questions and requests and kept in touch with us throughout our trip. Having train transportation arranged and ticketed in advance was very helpful. We particularly enjoyed the smaller towns/cities we visited, including Tsumago, Matsumoto, Kanazawa and Kurashiki.

Local specialist: Shona Zhang
Shona
Shona Zhang
Local specialist in Japan | Replied on Oct 30, 2025

Hi Carol,

Thank you for your kind words! Shona and our team are overjoyed to know we made your trip smooth and memorable—especially with the train arrangements and those charming towns. We can’t wait to welcome you back for more discoveries!

All the best,
Shona

Can't say enough praise for my travel compani...
South Korea | Oct 7 - Oct 22, 2025

D
dianna j.
Miami, FL | Reviewed on Oct 28, 2025
Can't say enough praise for my travel companion, S. Kim. She was extremely knowledgeable of the areas, history and travel plans. She was attentive to my dietary special needs and health issues. She made sure I was having a fun time and went shopping with me! She, Christine and Alicia need to have an award given to them by the Government for representing their country in such a fine and caring manner.! Read more

Can't say enough praise for my travel companion, S. Kim. She was extremely knowledgeable of the areas, history and travel plans. She was attentive to my dietary special needs and health issues. She made sure I was having a fun time and went shopping with me! She, Christine and Alicia need to have an award given to them by the Government for representing their country in such a fine and caring manner.!

Hotel Reviews
NINE TREE BY PARNAS SEOUL MYEONDONG 2
Seoul

Breakfast was phenomenal (nice blend of Western and Eastern cuisine) Clean Helpful staff that spoke very good English

Authenticity & Character
Location
Could see the N-tower from my window
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
bathroom very clean
Rakkojae Hahoe Hanok Hotel
Andong

Great to experience Hanok ... Staff worked with my dietary needs to the best of their ability. Clean. Bring your own washcloths. Friendly. Lots of picture moments from early history...

Authenticity & Character
attention to historical detail
Location
near historical village
Staff
friendly and helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
had to get used to 'hanok' style of room
Golgulsa Temple Stay
Gyeongju

Not a hotel, but more like a rustic hostel. Must have a healthy body to do steep climbs. Buggy in room, but not all guests experienced this....

Authenticity & Character
knowing that people at ~1000 AD were there
Location
Staff
informative and kind
Cleanliness & Comfort
I never saw kitchenware being sanitized--- just washed with scrubby and water, then put out for use. Rooms and baths were free of dirt debris, but I never knew if anything was used to sanitize the room, etc. (My mattress cover had dried blood on it...) I brought my own disposable sheets/pillowcase
Gyeongju Hwarangroo

Great location--- near historic Jeonju burial mounds. Clean, compact

Authenticity & Character
Would say it was a 'modernized' hanbok, but great experience
Location
Staff
Some were very kind, some were curt
Cleanliness & Comfort
bath was very clean
Shilla Stay Jeonju Hanok Village

11th floor restaurant staff person very helpful., Clean, nice view of city

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Had a situation at breakfast.... They were short of staff, so there was a waiting list an hour long to be seated. I have medical issues and was in distress and needed to eat something right away. I explained (through Papago) of my urgency, but 2 staff said that I would have to wait my turn. I asked for the manager, but they said that the person was not there that day. I apologized, but ran past them to go to the buffet. I sat at a used table, ate quickly and left. Otherwise, I would have fainted.... I wish their supervisor will let them be aware of medical needs of their patrons when it comes to eating needs. Thank you.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Half Day Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village
Half Day Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village
Seoul

It rained! Enjoyed the hair / make up prior to going tot the Hanbok store. SK was helpful with photography and museum guide. Bukchon Village was nice to see, especially knowing that the aristocracy used to live there, near the Palace

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Romance in Seoul: Namsan Park and N Seoul Tower
Romance in Seoul: Namsan Park and N Seoul Tower
Seoul

Just like the dramas--- saw a busker, ferry boat on the river. Wished I would have seen Rainbow Bridge with light show

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Explore the Ancient Andong
Explore the Ancient Andong
Andong

Too bad there was a deluge! The history of the place snatches you back in time.... So neat to know that you have to be a descendant of the original villagers to live there. One resident is a direct descendant of the original owner of the house in where he resides. Really neat!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Buseoksa Temple
Buseoksa Temple
Andong

My visit was shadowed by the fact of my chronic fatigue. This is a place best enjoyed by a healthy person because of the steep climbs. Great place for photos

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
SK climbed those paths with me! Pointed out interesting spots and photos
Transport
Half Day Golgulsa Temple Stay-D2
Half Day Golgulsa Temple Stay-D2
Gyeongju

My lack of health would not allow me to participate in the exercise activities. The tea with the monk did not have an interpreter. Every one was nice and pleasant.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
K-Beauty Experience in Seoul:  Make-up and Hair Styling
K-Beauty Experience in Seoul: Make-up and Hair Styling
Seoul

Sweet young ladies. They blended many colors to be the one that was right for me. (So you can't buy it, unfortunately...) Styled my hair for the hanbok experience later that day

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Starfield Library
Starfield Library
Seoul

I did not know it was a library only! Great to see a place that I saw in several K-Dramas. From there, you walk into the COAX Mall. Outside is the Gangnam hand statue...

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half Day Golgulsa Temple Stay
Half Day Golgulsa Temple Stay
Gyeongju

I did not have the health for this activity/ Great picture opportunities

Quality of Experience
Food
I would have to bring my own food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half Day Jeonju Hanok Village and Gyeonggijeon
Half Day Jeonju Hanok Village and Gyeonggijeon
Jeonju

Great history heritage ! Enjoyed the museums, dressing in hanbok again, ate chicken with some local merchants

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Jeonju Nambu Traditional Market Tour
Jeonju Nambu Traditional Market Tour
Jeonju

Nice merchants--- willing to speak with a foreigner

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half Day Seoul City : Insadong and Dongdaemun Market
Half Day Seoul City : Insadong and Dongdaemun Market
Seoul

Nice place for clothes for self or souvenirs

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
helped me choose some clothes, then came wit h me for lunch
Transport
Local specialist: Christine Liu

Japan with a baby -- a few hiccups, but overall good
Japan | Oct 10 - Oct 21, 2025

Megan
Megan L.
Houston, TX | Reviewed on Oct 28, 2025
Despite some challenges working with Shona, our local specialist, we had a great family trip to Japan as a young family with a 14 month old baby. We felt that some of the suggestions and bookings by Shona were not family or child-friendly and that she would always say "no" at first to everything we asked, and gaslighted us about some of the bookings that we never approved being our fault. When we booked 3 months in advance, she told us that she could help with restaurant recommendations... Read more

Despite some challenges working with Shona, our local specialist, we had a great family trip to Japan as a young family with a 14 month old baby.

We felt that some of the suggestions and bookings by Shona were not family or child-friendly and that she would always say "no" at first to everything we asked, and gaslighted us about some of the bookings that we never approved being our fault.

When we booked 3 months in advance, she told us that she could help with restaurant recommendations and reservations, but 2 weeks before the trip she switched and told us that she doesn't do this and requires an additional service fee to help with reservations. We're big foodies, so this was really stressful leading up to our trip, scrambling to get into restaurants we'd want to try. She also told us 3 weeks in advance of our trip that some of the experiences she advertised were not available -- some were sold out (but why? She had 3 months advance notice to book them!), some because she hadn't actually fully researched if they'd be open the day she suggested we'd do them.

But the kimkim team helped overcome many of these difficulties with great customer service, some necessary refunds, easy communication, and generally made our trip much easier and better.

We had a lovely time in Tokyo with our guide Sarah at Senso-Ji temple, and then by ourselves at Team Lab Planets and the Studio Ghibli museum. Sarah was flexible when we were dealing with jetlag, and helped us re-arrange our tour schedule on a day our baby really needed a nap.

Teresia was an amazing guide in Kyoto and Nara, also super understanding when we had to switch up our schedule and take the baby to the hotel for a nap early -- we got to see some parts of Kyoto we hadn't originally planned to see, but were some of our favorite experiences!

The drivers were always punctual, easy to communicate with, kept our car stocked with water bottles, didn't mind us playing Sesame Street music on our phones to soothe our baby, and got us to all our reservations on time or early.
Overall we'd use kimkim again, but be more careful and direct with out local specialist about our needs with a small child.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel New Otani Osaka
Osaka

It was fine -- we'd been staying at 5 star hotels our whole trip -- this one was noticeably older and less great. Little things missing like access to an outlet for both sides of the bed. The beds were ROCK hard. The buffet food wasn't very good -- didn't feel very fresh or delicious. I liked the idea of the morning coffee service, but in practice, the coffee was weak. They also charge $40 USD for late checkout, even though we'd booked a suite.

Location
Right next to a train station and across the street from some solid food options
Cleanliness & Comfort
It was clean but not very comfortable. Would love more accessible outlets next to the bed and a more private/separate living room and bedroom situation.
Hilton Kyoto
Kyoto

Beautiful hotel, really great amenities for suite level bookings, very kid-friendly

Location
Walking distance to the Nishiki Market! Right next to a 7/11 and a laundromat
Staff
They were so sweet with our baby, they gave her a little present that she loved
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu
Hakone

Really pretty hotel, lovely location. Their shuttle service was helpful, but they should add more shuttle pick up spots. The room had a bit of a musty smell, but probably due to people walking in it with wet feet from the onsen on the balcony. The buffet was huge and a bit intimidating, but I felt like most of the food was pretty good.

Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The musty smell from the onsen was pretty bad, but they did have a room air purifier, which helped.
Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo
Tokyo

Great service and breakfast

Authenticity & Character
Location
not very close to the train, a bit of a drive to everything
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Half Day Nara Park & Todai-Ji Temple
Half Day Nara Park & Todai-Ji Temple
Japan

The deer are wild and pretty aggressive but very cute, and the temple was magnificent -- the Buddha is huge!

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

The Bamboo Grove and Tenryuji Temple were so cool to see! The Temple was our favorite we saw on our trip -- a beautiful Japanese garden and pond, lots of places to walk barefoot. It felt super cool -- and we loved learning that it used to be a villa! The Bamboo Grove was so crazy crowded though -- glad we went to see it and take photos, but it wasn't a relaxing experience

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kyoto Sightseeing Tour with Sake Tasting
Kyoto Sightseeing Tour with Sake Tasting
Kyoto

We didn't have a sake tasting, and we actually didn't want one since we have a baby with us. But we loved seeing the Golden Pagoda and Fushimi Inari Shrine this day! Teresia our guide was great.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi Tour with Whisky Tasting
Full Day Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi Tour with Whisky Tasting
Tokyo

We did not do the Whisky Tasting because it was actually not available the day we were there (regularly closed on that day). This is something Shona our local specialist should have researched before offering it to us as an option when we booked. We didn't actually see Mt. Fuji, and Lake Kawaguchi isn't really that exciting without the view.

Quality of Experience
Didn't really feel like worth our time because we couldn't see Mt. Fuji. The Lake cruise is just out & back for 30 mins, which was fun for our baby, but not really that exciting or eventful.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
We thought Sarah and our driver were great and answered all our questions. They made the day nice, even if the tour/experience wasn't so good
Transport
Sushi Making Masterclass in Tokyo: Learn Techniques from Experts in Asakusa
Sushi Making Masterclass in Tokyo: Learn Techniques from Experts in Asakusa
Tokyo

Not kid-friendly. They didn't have any high chairs so our toddler was running around the whole class. They had another couple there, so they were teaching at a fast pace while my husband and I were trying to take turns learning and taking care of the baby. They didn't provide her with any entertainment or really anything, so she picked up their broom and started sweeping and pulling things off of shelves. We thought they'd give her something like rice and seaweed to touch and play with and also that they'd go slowly and make sure we understood the steps before moving on, but they didn't and we felt rushed. Also they wouldn't allow us to take any of the sushi we made home with us, and our baby was ready to go about 3/4 of the way through the 2 hour class, so we didn't get to eat much of what we made.

Quality of Experience
They actually have a youtube channel where they teach all their skills. Maybe just look at that instead of going to this class.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The location they sent us to at first was wrong, there was a sign in the old location pointing to the new location down the street. The staff at this experience were not able to customize or help us as parents to get the same experience anyone else who took this class would have.
Transport
Local specialist: Shona Zhang
Shona
Shona Zhang
Local specialist in Japan | Replied on Oct 29, 2025
Hi Megan
The Kimkim staff member you mentioned is our customer service manager, Lisa. I’m glad to hear that you found her helpful. Since there were some points I explained to you but you still found unclear, I asked her to assist me in communicating with you.
Thank you for your honest feedback — we’ll continue to work hard to improve our service quality. However, some aspects, such as restaurant reservation service fees, are charged by the reservation platform, not by us. I’ve explained this... Read more

Hi Megan
The Kimkim staff member you mentioned is our customer service manager, Lisa. I’m glad to hear that you found her helpful. Since there were some points I explained to you but you still found unclear, I asked her to assist me in communicating with you.

Thank you for your honest feedback — we’ll continue to work hard to improve our service quality. However, some aspects, such as restaurant reservation service fees, are charged by the reservation platform, not by us. I’ve explained this to you several times, and I hope you can understand it now.

Also, regarding your request for precise information on whether each sightseeing spot’s restroom has a diaper-changing table — unfortunately, we truly cannot provide exact details for every location.

I understand that you have some doubts about my service, but I really have done my best — including arranging fruit and snacks for your baby in advance and covering the driver’s service fee to take you to your dinner location for free. In Japan, all labor and services must be properly compensated.

We genuinely hope your trip has been enjoyable, and if it still didn’t fully meet your expectations, we’ll keep striving to do better.
Best
Shona

A smooth and wonderful vacation experience.
South Korea | Oct 7 - Oct 23, 2025

Anne-Marie
Anne-Marie C.
Flagami, FL | Reviewed on Oct 25, 2025
Jessica was very accommodating and helpful in setting up our visit, our itinerary, and adapting to changes that we threw her way. We had a wonderful experience on our first vacation in South Korea. There were no logistical problems with any of the hotels, transportation or guides. Everything went very smoothly. This was our first time planning a vacation this way and we really enjoyed not having to worry about logistics. Read more

Jessica was very accommodating and helpful in setting up our visit, our itinerary, and adapting to changes that we threw her way. We had a wonderful experience on our first vacation in South Korea. There were no logistical problems with any of the hotels, transportation or guides. Everything went very smoothly. This was our first time planning a vacation this way and we really enjoyed not having to worry about logistics.

Hotel Review
Siwoowadang
Gyeongju

We loved the hanok in the middle of Gyeonju. The hostess makes the most amazing breakfast. The room was spacious and comfortable.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Jessica Wang
Jessica
Jessica Wang
Local specialist in South Korea | Replied on Oct 27, 2025

Hi Anne-Marie,

Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! We're absolutely thrilled to hear that our team was able to provide you with a smooth and enjoyable experience overall.

We also truly value your feedback about the hotel. Your insights are incredibly helpful to us as we strive to continuously improve our services.

We hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back on your next adventure!

Best wishes always.
Jessica

Great customer service! Highly recommend
Japan | Oct 7 - Oct 24, 2025

Jonas
Jonas H.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Oct 25, 2025

We had an amazing time in Japan and would highly recommend KimKim travel. We were there for 17 nights and spread across 7 different cities including Tokyo, Kyoto, and the northern mountains. It was a busy itinerary and we were so glad to have Kimkim’s help. Olivia was a huge help both in planning our trip and assisting us whenever needed along the way!

Friendly, professional, and prompt! Highly recommend booking with this company!

Local specialist: Olivia Luang
Olivia
Olivia Luang
Local specialist in Japan | Replied on Oct 27, 2025

Hi Jonas,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a wonderful review! I’m delighted to hear that you had an amazing time exploring Japan and that the trip went smoothly across all seven cities. It was a pleasure working with you to bring your itinerary together, and I’m happy to know that our support made your experience enjoyable and stress-free.

Wishing you and your family all the best in your future travels, and I hope we’ll have the chance to plan another adventure together!

Warm regards,
Olivia

First time in Japan.
Japan | Oct 2 - Oct 21, 2025

M
Maritie B.
San Diego, CA | Reviewed on Oct 22, 2025
All planned stops were great and the people were wonderful this was my first trip to Japan. Read more

All planned stops were great and the people were wonderful this was my first trip to Japan.

Hotel Review
Hakone Hotel Kajikaso
Hakone
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Full Day Trip to Mt. Fuji with  Fugaku Fuketsu Wind Cave & Shiraito Falls
Full Day Trip to Mt. Fuji with Fugaku Fuketsu Wind Cave & Shiraito Falls
Tokyo
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Eleanor Chen
Eleanor
Eleanor Chen
Local specialist in Japan and China | Replied on Oct 31, 2025

Hi Maritie,

Hope you are doing great.

Thanks so much fjor your feedback and I'm so glad to hear that you enjoyed your first trip to Japan!

Looking forward to help your next trip plan in the further.💕💕

All best
Eleanor

A wonderful experience of collaboration for personalized tour of Japan
Japan | Oct 4 - Oct 21, 2025

J
Jeffrey S.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Oct 22, 2025
This was our first experience with KimKim, based on recommendation from friends. After many years of self-managed independent travel, what a wonderful experience! We wanted to design our own itinerary for Japan after previous travels there. It was a true collaboration with many iterations and exchange of ideas. The result was a unique experience, much of it to out-of-the-way places. KimKim's management of lodging, travel, drivers and guides was excellent. The final detailed itinerary... Read more

This was our first experience with KimKim, based on recommendation from friends. After many years of self-managed independent travel, what a wonderful experience! We wanted to design our own itinerary for Japan after previous travels there. It was a true collaboration with many iterations and exchange of ideas. The result was a unique experience, much of it to out-of-the-way places. KimKim's management of lodging, travel, drivers and guides was excellent. The final detailed itinerary guided us every step of the way. Specialist Sandy had great knowledge, made many helpful suggestions to improve our plans, and then was on the spot every day of travel to address any concern. We feel this was a good value and produced one of our best travel experiences.

Hotel Reviews
Gora Kansuiro
Hakone

A traditional design, older property, with excellent location close to Gora station and cable car. Beautiful outdoor bath, comfortable traditional room. Chosen to begin our Japan trip, it was excellent. Property a little worn, and food not the very best we had, but very good and overall the location and atmosphere make this an excellent place both for relaxing in place, and for touring the Hakone area.

Authenticity & Character
A true traditional construction with extensive grounds.
Location
Ideal both for quiet and for proximity to station and cable car.
Staff
Very welcoming and helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
A little worn, but attractive and comfortable.
Hotel Fukinomori

After a day of hiking on Nakasendo trail, a beautiful and serene place, both modern and traditional. Excellent food, great bathing facilities, a nice common room, well-designed traditional room. Remote location with good shuttle service to train station and local village. Would have liked to stay on.

Wanoyado Hotel Iya Onsen Natural Hot Spring
Miyoshi

Spectacular location in remote Iya valley. Older buildings, rambling layout, very good food, beautiful baths at the bottom of the canyon, rooms high above with great views. Hard to get to but worth the journey, and well-located for Oboke gorge exploration.

Hotel Kanazawa Zoushi
Kanazawa

A small, quiet, and beautifully designed modern building well-located in Takayama. The room was small but so carefully designed that it was one of the better places we stayed.

UNO HOTEL
Okayama, Tamano

Modern building just across from Uno station. Not fancy but functional, and very good restaurant attached. Baths a short walk away - a separate facility more like a US spa, but many good bathing facilities and other amenities. However, for exploring Naoshima, not the best choice, as ferry schedule limits time on the island. If Naoshima is the objective, stay on Naoshima.

Wat Hotel & Spa Hida Takayama
Takayama
Yunagi no Yu Hotel Hanajyukai

Extraordinary place, high on a hill with panoramic views of Takamatsu and inland sea, and private outdoor granite baths for every room. Yet convenient by taxi at reasonable cost to Ritsurin Garden and other tourist sites.

Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shinmachi Bettei
Kyoto

A medium sized chain hotel, well-run and well-located for touring Kyoto and environs.

Onyado Nono Namba Natural Hot Spring
Osaka

Excellent location for tourism in Osaka. A busy property, small but comfortable room, good breakfast, no evening restaurant - but it the center of unlimited dining places.

Activity Reviews
Katsura Imperial Villa
Katsura Imperial Villa
Kyoto

We visited Katsura 30 years ago, and it was our most memorable experience in Japan. This time, the garden is still an extraordinary example of design - one of the finest gardens of the world. The feeling is both ancient and modern - as though Frank Lloyd Wright went back a few centuries. But the tour felt rushed, the group of 20 was too large, the English speaking guide was full of information but careless about whether her group could hear it. It seems they are trying to get as many people through as possible, timing the tour to 60 minutes, with no time for reflection or calm. Yet, if this is the only way one can see Katsura today, the experience is still worth it.

Day tour from  Takamatsu to Iya valley
Day tour from Takamatsu to Iya valley
Miyoshi

Oboke George scenic boat ride is short but spectacular with stunning views and important geology. Vine bridge we expected to be trivial, but turned out to be a wonderful piece of engineering: now with steel cables hidden in the structure, but the design of the fiber structure is a wonder.

Local specialist: Sandy Ren
Sandy
Sandy Ren
Local specialist in Japan | Replied on Oct 27, 2025
Hi Jeff, Thank you so much for your wonderful review. I'm thrilled to hear that you had such an amazing experience on your trip to Japan and that the itinerary we created together resonated so well with your interests. It was truly a pleasure to work with you. I’m also delighted that you connected so well with most of the tour guides. They are truly wonderful, and I’m so glad they made your experience even more special. It’s always our goal to create unforgettable experiences, and your... Read more

Hi Jeff,

Thank you so much for your wonderful review. I'm thrilled to hear that you had such an amazing experience on your trip to Japan and that the itinerary we created together resonated so well with your interests. It was truly a pleasure to work with you. I’m also delighted that you connected so well with most of the tour guides. They are truly wonderful, and I’m so glad they made your experience even more special. It’s always our goal to create unforgettable experiences, and your feedback makes everything worthwhile.

We look forward to helping you plan your next adventure with Kimkim.

Wishing you all the best and warmest regards from Japan,
Sandy