Meet Japan Expert Kayoko Kagami
Travel has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. What began as a family tradition grew into a lifelong passion for exploring places deeply and thoughtfully.
I grew up in Osaka, traveling frequently with my family throughout western Japan and developing an early appreciation for regional culture, food, and landscapes. Later, after moving to Tokyo, my travels expanded to eastern Japan, giving me a broad, on-the-ground understanding of the country as a whole. So far, I’ve visited 39 of Japan’s 47 prefectures, and I’m excited to continue exploring the rest.
During my university years, I began traveling internationally and quickly realized how transformative travel could be. I went on to live abroad for extended periods in Canada, Nepal, Bali, and the United States, and I also spent significant time traveling throughout Europe. I later traveled through Morocco, where I fell in love with coastal life and learned to surf—an experience that deepened my appreciation for active, place-based travel and cultural exchange.
Living in different countries and communities taught me how powerful a well-designed journey can be. Those experiences shaped how I approach travel planning today: with curiosity, care, and attention to what truly matters to each traveler. I love creating themed itineraries that reflect personal interests, balance iconic experiences with quieter moments, and uncover places that feel authentic and meaningful rather than rushed or superficial.
One place in Japan that left a lasting impression on me is Dorokyo Gorge. The emerald-green river winding between steep cliffs and dense forest felt almost otherworldly. Drifting through the gorge by boat, surrounded by dramatic rock formations and silence, remains one of my most awe-inspiring travel experiences.
There are many things I love about Japan. Public transportation makes it incredibly easy to explore the country without a car—I only got my driver’s license recently because I never truly needed one while living in cities. Japan’s food culture continues to amaze me, not just for its quality and price, but for the care and hospitality that come with every meal. And having lived abroad, I’m deeply grateful for Japan’s accessible healthcare system and the ability to see specialists directly when needed.
Today, my goal is simple: to help others experience Japan in a way that feels personal, enriching, and unforgettable. I believe that one well-crafted journey can genuinely change how we see the world—and ourselves—and I love being part of that process.
Kayoko Kagami - Japan Expert
Kayoko is a Japan expert born and raised in Osaka, with a lifetime of travel across the country. She’s passionate about helping travelers experience Japan beyond the highlights, from regional food and landscapes to quieter, lesser-known places. She’ll be your go-to expert both during the planning process and while you’re on the ground in Japan.
My Favorite Things About Japan
Onsen culture — From historic hot spring towns to quiet rural baths, I love how onsen are woven into daily life in Japan. They’re places to slow down, relax deeply, and connect with local customs in a very natural way.
Regional food traditions — Japan’s cuisine goes far beyond sushi. I love exploring regional specialties, small local restaurants, and seasonal dishes that reflect where you are and the time of year, always paired with warm hospitality.
Effortless public transportation — Japan’s trains and local transit make it easy to travel smoothly across the country, even without a car. I love how this allows travelers to move confidently between cities, countryside, and smaller towns.
Nature woven into daily life — Whether it’s coastal scenery, mountain landscapes, river gorges, or forested paths, I love how easy it is in Japan to step from urban life into nature, often just a short train ride away.
Quiet, lesser-known places — Some of my favorite moments in Japan happen away from the crowds: small villages, scenic waterways like Dorokyo Gorge, and places where the pace slows and nature takes center stage.
Seasonal rhythms — Japan changes beautifully with the seasons, from cherry blossoms to autumn leaves. I love planning travel around these natural cycles to create journeys that feel timely and deeply connected to place.
Some of our Favorite Japan Tours
We’ve got some great Japan tours we’ve developed over the years. These are some of our favorites. And, while many tour operators have similar routes, it’s really the inner-workings and attention to detail that truly matter and make our Japan tours stand out.
Eclectic Japan
This Japan itinerary highlights the best of the country including Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima. Many companies attempt this route, only a few do it superbly! You can also do this trip in reverse if you are starting in Tokyo.
The Golden Route
This Japan tour takes you on the classic route that we’ve filled with hidden delights.
Testimonials
We love creating exceptional experiences and exceeding expectations. It’s how we get our kicks but don’t take our word for it, read what people who travel with us have to say!
“Our Spain journey with JBT was even better than we imagined, the perfect complement to our Morocco adventure. From seamless planning in Madrid to Andalusia’s beauty, every detail was cared for. We adored our city guides, and our driver Jebril welcomed us into his home for a delicious couscous meal — a memory we’ll treasure forever. The special touches from Amina and Lucas, from homemade gifts to sharing lunch together, made us feel like family. Truly, it was one of the best trips of our lives, and we can’t wait to explore more of the world with JBT!”
The Durants
“Our Italy trip with JBT was absolutely unforgettable. From the moment Alexei crafted our detailed, personalized itinerary — even pulling off a last-minute hot air balloon ride for my niece — we knew we were in the best hands. Each day was filled with extraordinary experiences, from private tours of Rome and Florence’s greatest treasures to a pasta-making class and a Chianti winery lunch. Our guides were exceptional, our hotels perfectly located and welcoming, and every driver and detail seamless. JBT once again exceeded my expectations, and I wouldn’t hesitate to turn to them for future adventures anywhere in the world!”
Judy F.
“Our Japan adventure with JBT was nothing short of epic! The itinerary Jon crafted was so thoughtfully designed — from a serene start in Hakone to the journey through ancient traditions and modern wonders — and the variety of lodging, from ryokans to a Kyoto townhouse to a glamping tent, made it truly unforgettable. The train instructions were flawless, and having Yuka as our guide and new friend was a gift. After two incredible journeys with JBT, we can honestly say you are the best!”
Kelley and Steve
