Wonderful time in Japan
Japan | May 5 - May 16, 2025

Edward
Edward T.
Morocco | Reviewed on May 18, 2025

We had an amazing time in Japan! The itinerary provided meant we got to see different locations and aspects of Japan that we wouldn't have done without help. We had a good mix of city and scenery and accommodation, both smaller Japanese style and larger hotels. Ben was responsive to our questions and suggested changes.
The guides (Miki, Betty, Yuki and Ursala) were fantastic, answering all our questions and giving insight on Japanese culture. Thank you so much to KimKim and team!

Hotel Reviews
Shiba Park Hotel
Tokyo
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Temple Lodging Shukubo Kakurinbo
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hakone Kyuan
Kanagawa
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Yuyaruru Saisai
Kanazawa
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Kyoto Tokyu Hotel
Kyoto
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Oyado Koto no Yume
Takayama
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Karaksa hotel grande Shin-Osaka Tower
Osaka
Authenticity & Character
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Discover Kyoto's Timeless Treasures by Public Transport: A Guided Tour of Culture, Cuisine, and Charm
Discover Kyoto's Timeless Treasures by Public Transport: A Guided Tour of Culture, Cuisine, and Charm
Kyoto
Quality of Experience
Kyoto, whilst interesting and with a long history, is very touristy.
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
We really liked Ursala-san! She was knowledgeable about Japan whilst also providing context in comparison with other Asian countries. Being similar ages we found her very relatable and enjoyable company. She always made sure we were looked after!
Transport
 Explore Tokyo's Rich Heritage: Tsukiji Outer Market,Imperial palace, Shibuya crossing  by public transport
Explore Tokyo's Rich Heritage: Tsukiji Outer Market,Imperial palace, Shibuya crossing by public transport
Tokyo

Excellent, but would have been helpful to know that some shops in the market were closed due to the holiday and that this would have been better on another day.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Miki-san was amazing! We loved hearing about life in Japan and she really brought it to life with personal anecdotes. Knowledgeable about the history and conscientious to Bryony's pregnancy.
Transport
Morning tour in Minobu and then private transfer to Hakone
Morning tour in Minobu and then private transfer to Hakone
Japan
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private transfer from Tokyo to Minobu enroute tour to Mt. Fuji
Private transfer from Tokyo to Minobu enroute tour to Mt. Fuji
Japan
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Betty-san was very sweet! She was kind and generous with regards to Bryony's pregnancy. Driver was very smooth and the car was great.
Transport
Day trip : Kanazawa to Takayama with Unique Experiences (By Public Transportation)
Day trip : Kanazawa to Takayama with Unique Experiences (By Public Transportation)
Japan
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Yuki was brilliant, he was very knowledgeable and answered all of our questions about Takayama and Gokayama. He was thoughtful in suggesting a private car given Bryony's pregnancy. Hopefully we will come back and go skiing with him!
Transport
Arashiyama One-Day Tour: Giouji Moss Temple, Bamboo Grove, and Transfer to Osaka
Arashiyama One-Day Tour: Giouji Moss Temple, Bamboo Grove, and Transfer to Osaka
Japan
Quality of Experience
Moss temple was great, really enjoyed it being a bit quieter!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
See Kyoto review
Transport
Day trip to Hiroshima and Miyajima by public transport
Day trip to Hiroshima and Miyajima by public transport
Osaka
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
See Kyoto review
Transport
Local specialist: Ben Tanaka
Ben
Ben Tanaka
Local specialist in Japan, China | Replied on May 19, 2025
Hi Edward, Thank you so much for your kind words! I'm truly delighted to hear that you had an amazing time in Japan and that the itinerary helped you discover both the vibrant cities and the beautiful scenery. It was a pleasure helping you plan your journey, and I’m so glad to know the guides—Miki, Betty, Yuki, and Ursala—made your experience even more memorable with their knowledge and warmth. Wishing you all the best as you prepare to welcome your little one—what an exciting new chapter!... Read more

Hi Edward,

Thank you so much for your kind words! I'm truly delighted to hear that you had an amazing time in Japan and that the itinerary helped you discover both the vibrant cities and the beautiful scenery. It was a pleasure helping you plan your journey, and I’m so glad to know the guides—Miki, Betty, Yuki, and Ursala—made your experience even more memorable with their knowledge and warmth.

Wishing you all the best as you prepare to welcome your little one—what an exciting new chapter! May your growing family be blessed with joy, health, and many more beautiful adventures in the years to come.

Best regards,
Ben