About My Japan Planner
Our Story
Traveling is fun. Visiting a place for the first time is thrilling, isn’t it? Even in places you’ve visited many times, you discover new things, gain deeper insights into the local culture, and still find excitement. Traveling with family, a partner, or friends creates lasting memories that warm the heart.
Manatsu used to travel to hot springs like Kusatsu in Gunma and go on ski trips to Madarao Highland in Nagano with her family when she was young. Kayoko grew up in Osaka and traveled to many places in western Japan like Shiga, Kyoto, and Kurashiki. Both of us developed an interest in foreign countries as we grew up. Manatsu moved to New Zealand, and Kayoko moved to Canada. These experiences taught us how Japan is seen from the outside and what people are looking for in Japan, enabling us to come up with ideas that meet your needs for your trip.
Though we were on different paths, we both returned to Japan around the same time and started working in the inbound tourism section of one of the biggest Japanese travel agencies. Having had similar experiences despite our different backgrounds, we quickly bonded. Later, we took separate paths again – Manatsu started working for a travel company in the UK, and Kayoko for one in Canada. Eventually, we both established local tour operations in Japan for our respective foreign companies. We gained various experiences in inbound tourism, from FIT to MICE, and encountered diverse customer requests, which inspired us to create more customized tours that truly cater to clients’ wishes. That is why we teamed up to establish this company and become your Japan Planners.
Travel memories last a lifetime, and we understand their importance. What would you like to do in Japan? As experienced professional planners, we are here to assist you with your journey to Japan.
We are your “My Japan Planner”.
Meet the team
Manatsu Horibe
Instagram >> @mjp_natsupiyo
I love planning fun activities. Let me help you plan a trip to Japan to experience its wonderful culture and crazy adventures. I have been in the travel industry since I was 19, and I used to travel around the world with customers. With my extensive experience, I can come up with unique ideas that are perfect for you. Let’s create an amazing journey together!
Things that I enjoy
- event planning
- martial arts (judo, aikido, kickboxing, karate, MMA, Tai chi)
- visiting onsens
- playing with cats
Tell me about your favourite places in Japan.
- Hirosaki park for cherry blossoms
- Senjojiki cirque for fall hiking
- Chichibu night festival
- Hirugami onsen
What do you like about Japan?
- you can save your spots with your belongings and nobody will steal them
- national character that values tradition while also loving new things
- onsen culture
- manga, anime, and mascot culture
Kayoko Kagami
Traveling has been a huge part of my life since I was very young. Growing up in Osaka, I often went on trips around western Japan with my family, exploring the rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes of the area. After moving to Tokyo, my adventures expanded to the eastern parts of Japan, allowing me to experience the diverse beauty of the entire country. My love for travel soon extended beyond Japan. During my university years, I started traveling abroad and quickly became hooked. I ended up living in Canada for six years and also spent time living in Nepal, Bali, and the USA.
Throughout my travels, I gained invaluable experiences and a deep understanding of various cultures and communities. Now, my passion is to help others have extraordinary experiences through their own journeys. I know how one impactful trip can profoundly change our lives. We are here to create a magical experience just for you. I love putting together themed itineraries that match your interests and finding hidden gems for you. Just let us know what you’re into or passionate about, and we will create a unique itinerary just for you!
Things that I enjoy
- outdoor activities (hiking, cycling, climbing, snorkelling, swimming, geocaching)
- dance (Brazilian zouk, forró)
- yoga
- going to onsen and sauna
- watching sunsets
How many prefectures have you visited?
39 prefectures. 8 more to go!
Tell me about your favourite places in Japan.
My visit to Dorokyo Gorge left me in awe of its natural beauty. The emerald green waters, framed by steep cliffs and lush forests, created a breathtaking scene that felt almost otherworldly. The highlight of my experience was the boat ride through the gorge. Gliding along the serene river, I was amazed by the dramatic rock formations and the sheer magnificence of nature.
What do you like about Japan?
- I love how easy it is to get around by public transportation in Japan. I only got my driver’s license last year because, living in cities, I never really needed one.
- As everyone knows, food is amazing! Quality, price, and the hospitality at restaurants, it is simply incredible.
- Great healthcare. When I was living in Canada, I could not see specialists without first visiting a walk-in clinic or seeing a family doctor. I am so grateful that I can visit specialists directly here in Japan.
