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Couldn't have done it without KimKim
Japan | Feb 14 - Feb 20, 2026

J
Jonathan C.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Feb 23, 2026

Mina was a crucial part of planning a week-long visit to Japan with my two teenage kids. She was responsive to feedback, made changes at our request and was extremely thorough going over all the details, especially in the days leading up to our trip. We particularly enjoyed her recommendation for a casual dinner on our first night after arriving at a wagyu beef-centered restaurant. Kudos as well to our guides Franziskus (Tokyo), Seika (a delicious Shibuya food tour) and Zef (Kyoto).

One note for U.S. travelers: a "double" room doesn't necessarily mean two beds in international hotels -- so if you definitely need a room with two beds, make sure you specify it clearly before booking.

Hotel Reviews
Tokyu Stay Shibuya
tokyo

Incredibly helpful staff at a property with clean, comfortable rooms located right in the heart of Shibuya. The in-room washer and dryer was a huge bonus.

Authenticity & Character
It's a very modern building and hotel.
Location
Less than a 15-minute walk to the heart of Shibuya
Staff
Were helpful and accommodating every step of the way.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Toilet occasionally gave off a sulphur-ish odor.
The Blossom Kyoto
Kyoto

Elevated, western-style hotel in a super charming part of Kyoto. Bountiful free breakfast buffet is a nice touch.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Mina Helland
Mina
Mina Helland
Local specialist in Tokyo | Replied on Feb 23, 2026
Hi Jonathan! Thank you so much for your lovely review! It truly means a lot to me :) It was such a pleasure assisting you in planning this trip to Japan with your kids. I really enjoyed shaping the itinerary together and making adjustments along the way to ensure it felt just right for your family. I am happy to hear that you enjoyed the wagyu dinner on your first night! Starting the trip with a great meal is always a good idea :) I will also be sure to pass your lovely comments along to... Read more

Hi Jonathan!

Thank you so much for your lovely review! It truly means a lot to me :)

It was such a pleasure assisting you in planning this trip to Japan with your kids. I really enjoyed shaping the itinerary together and making adjustments along the way to ensure it felt just right for your family. I am happy to hear that you enjoyed the wagyu dinner on your first night! Starting the trip with a great meal is always a good idea :)

I will also be sure to pass your lovely comments along to our team and the guides :) I know they will be very happy to hear they helped make your time in Tokyo and Kyoto special.

I hope this was a meaningful experience for all three of you and that it will not be your last visit to Japan!

Warmest regards,
Mina

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