Plan Your Perfect Japan Trip with Insider Tips from me, Sugi

Get stress-free guides, hidden gems, and local insights from a seasoned traveler.

WHAT’S INSIDE

📝 Insider Guides

  • Explore the must-see spots in each city, from iconic temples to vibrant shopping districts.

  • Tips on building your own unique itinerary based on your preferences and time.

📦 packing tips

  • Tips for planning before you even start packing - including pre arrival tips and what items or services you need to purchase ahead of time.

  • A complete packing list tailored to summer, winter, or in-between seasons.

💎 hidden gems

  • Discover how to navigate the eclectic range of food options, learn about what foods you should try, and where to find the best eats.

  • Discover lesser-known spots from a gal who grew up going to Japan. I'll let you in on all my family + friends' favorite spots.

and so much more…

WHO THIS FOR

New to Japan?

Navigating Japan for the first time can be overwhelming, but this guide simplifies everything. From what to expect when you land to essential apps, it’s all covered for an easy, stress-free experience. *This is also for Japan obsessed folks who want to become more seasoned in Japan travel.

Not Sure Where to Start?

This guide helps you confidently build your own itinerary. It offers expert recommendations on where to go, how to choose where to stay, and how to make the most of your time in Tokyo and Kyoto - along with many other insider tips!

Want the Insider Experience?

Discover hidden gems and local spots that most tourists miss. Whether it’s the best ramen shop or peaceful temples, this guide helps you find the real Japan beyond all of the typical tourist traps.

WHO THIS not FOR

Seasoned Japan Travelers

If you've already explored Japan and feel comfortable navigating the cities, this guide may not provide much new information for you. But, you may find other aspects of this guide helpful.

Looking for a Planned Itinerary

This guide helps you build your own trip, so if you’re seeking a step-by-step, pre-built itinerary with very specific recommendations, this might not be the right fit.

Seeking Luxury Experiences

If you’re only interested in luxury travel or venturing far off the beaten path, this guide focuses on a more generalized approach for Tokyo and Kyoto travel.

HAPPY TRAVELERS

  • Working with Sugi has been amazing. From her wealth of online content to her careful consideration and curation of our personalized itinerary, Sugi’s expertise and attention to detail has made all the difference. Sugi created a perfect itinerary for our family of 4, blending must-see cultural landmarks with hidden gems we would have never found on our own. Whether it was navigating transportation and logistics, or creating a trip full of lasting memories, Sugi has been a bright light in the planning process. She is down to earth, easy to talk to, knowledgeable and wonderful. I cannot recommend her enough.

    Landrie Waldron

  • It is very stressful landing in a new country for the first time, but armed with Sugi’s tips and guidance we were able to confidently navigate the arrival process. She prepared us for the COVID protocols, explained where to pick up our Pocket Wi-Fi and what to expect when moving through customs. I also left the airport with my SUICA card and Yen in hand via the currency exchange window which saved a lot of time and stress. We took the Narita Skyliner to the Ueno station and transferred to another train line to get to our hotel and I would not have been confident to do this alone without her guidance and reassurance!

    Stacey Cushman

  • Sugi turned what would’ve undoubtedly been a labor intensive, stressful, research heavy process into a breeze - which is really never said about international travel and all if its nuances! I arrived in Japan prepared for not only the fun stuff (she created a custom itinerary based on my interests and requests), but she had also done the legwork in researching and preparing us for the process at the airport once we landed, covid protocol, rail pass info, etc. etc. (some of which are fairly complicated processes especially if you do not speak the language). I wish I had a Sugi for all my international trips, the peace of mind and stress free travel was worth every penny. 

    Emily Brown

  • I had no idea what to expect going to Japan, but thanks to Sugi's thorough guide, everything was laid out for me. From managing airport logistics to finding my way through Tokyo’s complex rail system, it was all so easy to follow. My favorite part was how well-balanced the itinerary was—exploring the vibrant energy of Tokyo, then unwinding in the peaceful beauty of Kyoto. I couldn’t have done it without her guide!

    Derek Bondo

Who is sugi?

Hi! I'm Allison Sugahara, but my friends call me "Sugi". 🇯🇵🪩🫶🏽 I’m a passionate entrepreneur, community builder + connector, and full-blown creative who is always exploring new ways to express my creativity and connect my community. I'm a jack of all trades, perhaps maybe even a master of some, but absolutely more well-rounded than a master of one. ✌🏽