Why Japan?

Because nowhere else feels quite like it.

Japan is ultra-clean, highly organized, and shockingly safe—but it’s also full of mystery and subtle nuance. Every moment feels intentional, from the way tea is poured to how trains arrive exactly on time.

What I love most as a travel advisor is how customizable a trip to Japan can be. You can keep it ultra-modern with luxury hotels and sushi counters in the sky—or go traditional, sleeping on tatami mats and soaking in rural hot springs. Either way, Japan delivers an unforgettable experience.

Top Places to Visit in Japan

Tokyo
The ultimate megacity. A buzzing metropolis made of countless neighborhoods—each with its own identity. In Shibuya, cross the world’s busiest intersection. In Asakusa, visit ancient Senso-ji Temple. In Harajuku, admire wild street fashion. And in Ginza, shop like royalty. For food lovers? Tokyo has more Michelin stars than any city on earth.

Kyoto
Once the imperial capital, now the cultural heart of Japan. Think: golden temples, red torii gates, geisha districts, and peaceful gardens. Don’t miss Fushimi Inari Shrine (with its iconic path of 10,000 gates), Arashiyama’s bamboo grove, and a tea ceremony experience in Gion.

Osaka
Japan’s kitchen. Come here hungry. Known for takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and street food galore. It's a bit grittier and more casual than Tokyo—people laugh louder, talk faster, and eat better. Don’t skip Dotonbori for neon signs and late-night bites.

Hakone
This mountain escape is known for its hot springs and views of Mt. Fuji. Ride the Hakone Ropeway over volcanic landscapes, cruise across Lake Ashi, and relax in a ryokan (traditional inn) with a private onsen bath. Perfect for a peaceful break between cities.

Kanazawa
A hidden gem with old samurai districts, tea houses, and one of Japan’s top gardens—Kenrokuen. It’s also a hub for traditional crafts like gold leaf art and Kaga-yuzen silk dyeing.

Hiroshima & Miyajima
A sobering but powerful stop. Visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, then take a ferry to Miyajima Island to see the floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine—a true bucket list sight.

Nikko or Takayama (for rural charm)
Both are great options for traditional architecture, hiking, and a glimpse of old Japan. Takayama has a preserved Edo-era town, while Nikko boasts ornate temples nestled in misty forests.

Japanese Culture: Respect, Ritual, and Beauty in the Details

In Japan, everything is done with care. Whether it’s bowing, wrapping a gift, or arranging sushi—there’s pride in precision. You’ll notice quiet trains, clean streets, and people going out of their way to be helpful. You may also notice:

• Shoes off at the door (and slippers inside)

• No tipping (service is included—and excellent)

• Queuing up politely (even on subways)

• A love of vending machines (they sell everything)

Cultural etiquette is important, but don’t worry—I always prep clients with a cheat sheet on what to expect.

What to Eat in Japan

The real question is what not to eat. Japan is a foodie's paradise:

• Sushi & sashimi – Tokyo’s sushi counters are legendary

• Ramen – From creamy tonkotsu in Fukuoka to miso ramen in Sapporo

• Tempura – Light, crisp, and best with dipping sauce

• Okonomiyaki – Savory pancakes layered with cabbage, pork, seafood

• Kaiseki – A multi-course dining art form

• Street snacks – Try mochi, yakitori, taiyaki, and matcha ice cream

• Convenience store meals – 7-Eleven and Lawson have shockingly good bento, onigiri, and more

Drink highlights: green tea, plum wine, sake, and Japanese whisky.

Is Japan Safe?

Extremely. Japan is one of the safest countries in the world. Crime rates are low, and people are respectful. Even as a solo female traveler, you’ll feel secure. The biggest risks? Earthquakes (rarely severe for tourists), and losing your rail pass. (Seriously—keep that thing safe.)

Where to Stay in Japan

Luxury:

• Aman Tokyo: Minimalist zen meets five-star service

• The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto: Elegant riverside views and serene design

• Hoshinoya Ryokan chain: For high-end traditional experiences

Midrange & Boutique:

• Hotel Ryumeikan (Tokyo): Stylish and well-located

• Hotel Kanra Kyoto: Modern comfort with tatami charm

• Citadines or Mitsui Garden Hotels: Reliable, clean, and well-reviewed

Unique Stays:

• Ryokan (traditional inn): Includes tatami floors, futon beds, and often dinner + breakfast

• Capsule hotels: Fun for a night, especially in cities

• Temple stays (like Koyasan): For a spiritual overnight experience

Travel Advisor Tips for Visiting Japan

Book in advance. Hotels, trains, and experiences fill up—especially during cherry blossom or fall foliage season.

Get a Japan Rail Pass. It's often cheaper for tourists and can be used on most bullet trains. I help clients choose the best pass based on itinerary.

Reserve museum and theme park tickets ahead. Ghibli Museum, TeamLab Planets, and Universal Studios Japan all require early planning.

Rent a pocket Wi-Fi or eSIM. Internet is solid, but staying connected helps with maps and translations.

Pack good walking shoes. You’ll do a lot of walking, especially in train stations and temples.

Bring a small towel and hand sanitizer. Not all bathrooms have paper towels or soap!

Respect local etiquette. I provide a quick guide before departure—things like how to bow, how to use chopsticks properly, and when to be quiet.

Why Japan?

Because it changes you. Not in a big, dramatic way—but in the way that slows your pace, sharpens your senses, and makes you see beauty in details you never noticed before. It’s a country of layers, and every visit peels back something new.

Planning a trip to Japan can feel overwhelming—there’s just so much to see and experience. But that’s where I come in. Whether you want to hike in the Japanese Alps, shop in Shibuya, or soak in a private onsen under the stars, I’ll craft an itinerary that fits your travel style.

Let’s make your dream Japan trip unforgettable—and totally seamless.