Wonderful Japan in 2 weeks
Japan
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Oct 12 - Oct 26, 2025
Leny and her team put together a fantastic two-week trip, let alone the destination itself was terrific.
Tokyo-->Hakone-->Kyoto-->Osaka-->Hiroshima-->Tokyo.
She listened to our particular tastes and gave us a first draft itinerary that was almost perfect. As the trip neared, she was able to accommodate last minute requests and re-jig some of the activities.
In our case, there were Foodie Tours in every city, accompanied by some local morning tours of different neighborhoods, walking paths, and major attractions such as shrines, temples and bamboo forests. We had plenty of our own free time to go deep in neighborhoods and activities without the pace of a private guide.
The guides themselves were indeed great--they all spoke English well and were extremely polite and approachable.
All intra-Japan movement was either on private car, bullet train "Shinkansen", or the excellent metro system in Tokyo and Osaka.
Leny's team was with us 24/7 via a whatsapp group. We didn't really need any major correction during the trip, but they made sure that there was CONSTANT communication between them, our tour guides and drivers, and any were quick to ensure we had all vouchers and passes.
Highlights of the trip itself? Walking the neighborhoods of Tokyo--Shibuya is a must, Tsukiji Fish market for uber-fresh Sushi, Street aka Mario Karting in Akihabara, and Sumo exhibition. In Hakone, we spent a night in a quaint mountainside Honten, with our own private hot springs. Note that the food here is VERY local, so don't expect toast and eggs for breakfast. Kyoto is much more touristy, but also smaller and more intimate. A great walking city and of course the amazing Fushimi inari Taisha shrine is a must see.
In vibrant Osaka, another great food tour. It's also the jumping off point for a day-trip to Hiroshima.
Leny's team gave us GREAT hotels in each city, including a boutique hotel in Kyoto that used the be Nintendo's HQ--the Marufukuro.
With KimKim, everything is paid for in advance--all I needed was metro and spending money. And, of course, any meals not included.
Kudos Leny and KimKim. A great, in-depth experience in Japan where you will be captivated by the wonderful people, the collective culture, great food scene and rich history.
Hotel Reviews
Very authentic--you are asked to wear your Kimono everywhere, including meals in the dining room. We had a private hot spring right in our backyard off the room. Sleeping on a mattress on the floor, the wonderful smell of incense everywhere, and a private garden are all part of the experience. The food is genuine Japan, fixed menu (at least it was for us). So make sure you are good with that.
Charming and original. A great boutique hotel located in a quiet neighborhood yet close to the riverbed and major restos and shopping. The staff is extremely friendly and attentive. Good, simple breakfast included, and very well appointed rooms. The Nintendo-history lounge is a must visit!
This is a SIX star hotel, really. Located in the heart of Tokyo, across from the US Embassy. Walking distance to the Metro as well. It's uber luxe to the max.
This is also a five star hotel located in the city of Osaka. Right on the subway line, connected to lots of shopping and restaurants so you don't even need to go outside.
Activity Reviews
Great foodie tour, centralized in one main area so not a ton of walking if that is a concern. Our guide was terrific and knowledgeable. Great foods as well, especially okonomiyaki.
Authentic, and fresh! This market is so much fun...lots of people, animation, and food to try!
A smooth bullet train from Osaka gets you here, to witness the history of the A-bomb. It's a must see, if only to understand the scale and impact that this had. Our guide was knowledgeable, and spoke great English.
You'll be tasting best of Japan in off-the beat and path locales. Sushi is at a small place where you stand and the chef makes it right there for you. All the prices for food were included in our tour. Plus--you get a general tour of Shibuya as well. This is a MUST SEE neighborhood. The throngs of young people are amazing, and of course the famous scramble!
Great guide who kept us informed about the history of Sumo, as well as how the practice was evolving during the course of the morning. We got a great seat if you get there early.
Very authentic mountainside hotel. Private garden, hotspring in our garden, sleeping on the floor and they give you a kimono to wear the entire time--even at dinner and breakfast!
