AUTHENTIC AND CUSTOMIZED EXPERIENCES
Just imagine... Japan
My Story
花鳥風月
"Japan, again? Why?"
It's a question I've heard more times than I've bothered to count. And frankly, it's an impossible question to answer, because I have yet to find the words to express the inexplicable magic that draws me back time and again.
Of course, the ancient temples and shrines are positively breathtaking, offering a tangible link to history and a spiritual experience that I can't begin to articulate. And yes, the profound respect for nature and community, the culinary artistry, the serene, meticulously clean cities, and the almost unbelievable efficiency of the public transportation system are all remarkable. But these are merely components of a much larger, more nuanced experience.
I've dreamed of Japan since childhood, a fascination ignited in the earliest chapters of my life. My first visit was a revelation. Never before had I felt such an immediate, profound connection to a place. But Japan was special. It was life-changing. And while my journey was deeply personal, I believe Japan holds the power to enchant everyone. It's a place that stirs something within you, and I am so passionate about sharing the magic that captivated me with as many others as I can.
So, let's take a trip. Just imagine... Japan.
There was a mural on the wall in my grandparents' house, freehand painted by my grandfather from a memory. And although I didn't realize it until I was much older, it was speaking to me. It spoke of cherry blossom trees and torii gates and snow-capped mountains beyond the sea. It spoke straight into my soul... a silent invitation... a whisper that resonated deep within me. And that quiet pull has never faded.
Who Am I?
I can't remember a time in my life when I didn't dream of visiting Japan. In elementary school, I would borrow books every single week from my school's library about Japanese culture and language. I became so obsessed with the pictures that I asked my mom to photocopy the pages at work so that I could tape them to my bedroom walls.
When I was finally old enough to visit Japan, I feared that reality might fall short of my lifelong fantasies. But from the moment the landing gear touched the runway, those concerns vanished. Japan far exceeded anything I'd imagined, and I knew at once that I never needed to go anywhere else in the world, ever again.
So, who am I?
I am, probably, one of the most Japan-obsessed people you'll ever meet.
I am, above all, passionate about the culture of Japan, and helping to educate about and safeguard that culture.
I am an investor in a startup organization dedicated to the preservation of historical Japanese temples.
I am an beginner/conversational-level Japanese speaker.
I am a planner. An organizer. A certified Fora Travel Advisor.
I am your guide to Japan.
Rachel
Owner/Travel Advisor
CHOOSE A PLAN THAT SUITS YOU THE BEST. WHETHER IT'S YOUR FIRST TRIP OR YOUR TENTH, I CAN HELP!
Packages
Full Trip Planning
LEAVE IT TO US
Includes start-to-finish planning, from flights and accommodations, to your daily itinerary, excursion bookings, and more.
I'll take care of everything. Your itinerary will arrive in a mobile-friendly PDF booklet, with clickable links to maps and helpful websites, directions on when to leave and what to bring, cultural information about each site, and much, much more! Check out the portfolio page for more info and a sample booklet!
Partial Planning
WE’LL WORK ON IT TOGETHER
Flight research, hotel bookings, and general advisory/guidance on planning your itinerary.
If you want to do the major planning yourself with some minor guidance, tips, and advice, along with taking advantage of my Fora travel advisor perks and discounts, then let's work together to create your trip!
Bookings Only
DISCOUNTED BOOKINGS AND PERKS
Guidance and bookings for flights and accommodations - take advantage of my Fora Advisor discounts and perks.
If you're just looking for the perks of working with a travel advisor, then this option is for you! I can assist in flight research and can complete bookings for your accommodations and some excursions that are available to me in my Fora portal.
Add Ons
ADDITIONAL SERVICES
Custom Needs - Looking for something extra? Just tell me! I can customize your package in the way that works best for you!
Surprise Me - want to add a day or two of "surprises"? With this option, I'll add a day or more onto your itinerary that you will be completely blind to, with just map links and general advise on when to leave and which way to go!
