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  3. Nicole's Family Trip to Japan - Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Nara

A Great Journey
Japan | Oct 2 - Oct 9, 2026

N
Nicole B.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Oct 15, 2026

Cory was a delight to plan our trip with! We had a diverse group and she helped us to find something for everyone. Cory also helped us to feel prepared with how to use the transit systems and feel confident we could get where we needed to go, on time. We really enjoyed Kyoto, with our guide Pam. We got to see so much and appreciated having a local point of view. We also enjoyed the fast pace of Tokyo with Karin who adjusted our itinerary to maximize lower traffic times at high traffic sites. We so enjoyed our adventures in Japan.

Hotel Reviews
Hakone Kowakudani Onsen Ryokan Mizunoto
Hakone

The hotel is unique and the hot springs were enjoyable. The included meals were not great, we had much better traditional meals.

Authenticity & Character
Location
There is a garden just across the road and the hotel is in a quite area. It was not ideal to have to walk bags up the hill after a long bus ride
Staff
Staff was kind. We had logistics trouble with the bus not running on time. Staff was kind but unable to help us resolve the issue.
Cleanliness & Comfort
KAYA Kyoto Nijo Castle
Kyoto

Location was nice, it was a walk from the train station but staff were very friendly and helpful. We had a great stay and the beds were comfortable.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Helped us get a taxi for 6 on short notice for dinner!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel the Celestine Tokyo Shiba
Tokyo

We had a very nice stay!

Authenticity & Character
Location
There was a walk to all mass transit, a doable 10min walk but of note if you have luggage.
Staff
Very kind. We had to check in early and leave bags, they were in our rooms when we returned, stress free!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Akihabara Anime & Gaming Adventure Tour
Akihabara Anime & Gaming Adventure Tour
Tokyo

This was a unique tour. Our guide was kind and knowledgeable about the area. We had expected more of a focus on anime than the general area and hipsters but it was a unique experience.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide was great. Made things feel comfortable and accessible. Took us to places we likely would not have walked into without the guide.
Tokyo Night Food Tour in Shinjuku
Tokyo Night Food Tour in Shinjuku
Tokyo

We loved this experience! A highlight of the trip! The guide was outstanding and the food was delicious!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Japanese Calligraphy Experience (Nara)
Japanese Calligraphy Experience (Nara)
Japan

This was an exceptional experience! We had a great time learning and creating together. The setting was just beautiful, a lovley garden out back and such kind host.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Outstanding! We were not rushed and they were kind about our artistic attempt!
Private Kyoto Temples & Gion Tour
Private Kyoto Temples & Gion Tour
Japan

Pam was wonderful! We saw so much and really enjoyed our adventure!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony with Kimono Wearing (Higashiyama)
Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony with Kimono Wearing (Higashiyama)
Japan

A beautiful experience! Would recommend for anyone looking for a unique and authentic experience.

Quality of Experience
Getting dressed in a kimono was fun and unique!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Full day exploring Meiji Jingu, Harajuku & Shibuya
Full day exploring Meiji Jingu, Harajuku & Shibuya
Tokyo

A great introduction to Tokyo! Covers a lot of ground and is an orientation to the metro system if you haven’t used it before

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Cory Varga
Photo taken by Nicole B
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