Hello, I’m Fumi, a Tokyo-based guide and private Japanese language instructor. Everyone experiences Japan differently. You may have a long list of places you want to see, or you may simply want to take your time and see what catches your interest. Tell me what interests you. I’ll listen, share ideas when helpful, and help shape the day around you. And if something catches your eye along the way, let me know. If you’d like to spend a little more time somewhere, we can talk about what makes sense from there.
For me, a private tour is not simply about getting through a list. What you’re enjoying and what matters to you in that moment are important too.
Famous Sights and Everyday Discoveries
Tokyo’s famous sights are famous for a reason. Learning a little about the story behind a place can make seeing it for yourself even more interesting. But there’s plenty to discover along the way, too. I love traveling, both in Japan and abroad. I often wander into local supermarkets to see what people eat, or find myself wondering about a line of people: “What are they waiting for?” A food I’ve never seen before or a local habit can suddenly make a place feel much more real. Even for me as a Japanese person, Japan is still full of discoveries. Travel to a different region or come back in another season, and you’ll notice something new. I was born and raised in Osaka and now live in Tokyo, so perhaps I’m especially curious about those differences. And being from Osaka, yes, I make takoyaki at home too!
A Little Closer to Everyday Japan
One of the things I enjoy most when I travel is interacting with local people. Sometimes even a brief exchange can make a place feel a little closer. I hope I can share some of that feeling with you in Japan. As we walk, you may see me chatting with a shopkeeper or asking someone a question. And sometimes it’s not only the words that are interesting. The tone, gestures, pauses, and little ways people respond to each other can tell you a lot. One guest I guided even found themselves naturally bowing to people by the end of our day together. And because I also teach Japanese, if you find yourself wondering, “What did they just say?” or “What does that mean?”, just ask. If you feel like trying a little Japanese yourself, I’d be happy to help with that too. It might be one phrase at a café or a few words with someone we meet. It doesn’t need to become a Japanese lesson. It’s simply another way to enjoy being in Japan.
When One Experience Leads to Another
I’m always happy when someone I’ve guided comes back to Japan and we meet again, or introduces me to a friend or family member. Travel can be a little like that too. A place from your first trip connects with something you discover on your next. One conversation leads to another. At first, they may seem like separate dots, but little by little, the dots begin toconnect.
I love seeing those connections grow—between places, experiences, and people. Families with children are very welcome too. Having raised children myself, I understand that traveling as a family has its own pace.