🧭 Planning & Services
Do you plan the entire trip or just parts of it?
I offer full custom itinerary planning for a flat fee per person. That includes building a day-by-day schedule, helping you organize your wishlist, and assisting with hotel and activity bookings. If you are planning your own trip and just want help with hotel and activity logistics, I also offer a free service for that.
Can you help if I already have a list of things I want to do?
Yes. That is one of the most common reasons people come to me. I take your wishlist and turn it into a structured, realistic plan that helps you make the most of your time in Japan.
What is included in the free booking service?
I can help you select and book hotels, plus experiences like cultural tours, classes, and activities that are commissionable through my trusted travel partners. You also get access to a mobile itinerary app where I can store your bookings, flights, and any independent plans you want to keep track of.
What is not included in the free booking service?
The free tier does not include itinerary design, restaurant reservations, non-bookable experiences like the Pokémon Café or Ghibli Museum, or airfare bookings.
Can you plan trips outside of Japan?
Yes. While Japan is my specialty, I can also help plan and book trips to other destinations. If you are interested in a different location, just let me know and I will let you know what services I can offer for that destination.
✈️ Booking & Logistics
Do you book flights or train passes?
No. I recommend booking flights directly with the airline for better flexibility and support. I do not book rail passes like the JR Pass.
Can you book restaurants or special events?
No. I do not book restaurants or experiences that require direct booking on specific release dates, like the Pokémon Café, Kirby Café, or Ghibli Museum. These are outside the scope of what I can offer.
Can you help with SIM cards, rail passes, or airport transfers?
I can recommend general options and help you understand what might work best, but I do not book these services myself.
Do you offer travel insurance?
Yes. I can provide travel insurance quotes and help you select and purchase a plan that matches your needs.
How is this service free?
I earn a small commission from hotel and activity providers when I book through my trusted travel agent platforms. This allows me to offer free support for hotel selection and commissionable activity bookings. The price is the same as if you booked it yourself, and in some cases I have access to agent-only discounts. I only recommend things I truly believe are a good fit for you.
📋 Process & Pricing
How much does custom itinerary planning cost?
Pricing typically starts at $150 to $200 per person depending on the length and complexity of the trip. Longer trips, group coordination, or last-minute planning may have additional fees. I will always give you a clear quote before we start.
Do you offer refunds?
No. Because this is a time-based service, I do not offer refunds once work has started. If you are unsure, you are welcome to schedule a free consultation first.
What if my plans change after the itinerary is done?
I understand that plans can shift. I am happy to help with adjustments when things come up. If major changes or repeated overhauls are needed, I may charge a small update fee. I try to be fair and flexible whenever possible.
How do I receive my itinerary?
Your itinerary is delivered through Trip Plans, a mobile-friendly app where everything is organized and easy to access. You can also export it as a PDF if you prefer a printable version.
💬 Working Together
Do we need to do a video call?
I prefer Zoom or Google Meet calls because they allow me to better understand your trip and travel style. But if you are more comfortable with email, that works too. I will adapt to what works best for you.
How do I get started?
You can start by filling out my trip planning form. I will follow up with the next steps based on the service you are looking for.