Meet Megumi, our Tokyo-Born Travel Expert with a Passion for her Homeland

Born in Tokyo, Megumi brings a deep understanding of both the city’s vibrant modern energy and its rich traditional roots. Having experienced life both in Japan and abroad, she offers travelers a unique perspective that blends local customs, cultural insights, and authentic experiences. Megumi’s love for Japan shines through her work, ensuring every guest has an unforgettable experience!

Join us in this interview to hear Megumi’s unique story and essential travel tips!

Could you tell us a bit about yourself, your background, and your role at Arigato Travel?

My name is Megumi, but everyone calls me Meg! I was born and raised in Tokyo and moved to Hawaii when I was 10 years old, so I grew up with a mix of both Japanese and American cultures. That background really shaped who I am and gave me a unique perspective when it comes to connecting with people from different parts of the world.

At Arigato Travel, I work as part of the Custom Multi-Day Support team. I ensure that every guest’s trips across Japan go smoothly by managing all the details and assisting with any unexpected emergencies that may arise. I love being able to share my culture in meaningful ways and help create memories that last a lifetime.

Can you recall any specific childhood memories in Tokyo that ignited your passion for Japanese culture and motivated you to share it with visitors?

One memory that really stands out is visiting the お祭り(omatsuri = festival) in my neighborhood with my family in the summer. I remember the excitement of wearing a colorful yukata, enjoying piping hot takoyaki, and playing all the classic festival games. It was truly a magical experience as a child.

After moving to Hawaii, I was surprised and happy to see how much Japanese culture is appreciated outside of Japan. They even have their own matsuri, complete with bon dances and traditional food. Seeing that made me feel proud of my heritage, and it definitely inspired me to want to share more of Japanese culture with others. That sense of connection is a big reason why I love what I do at Arigato Travel.

How have your thoughts on Japanese customs evolved?

Growing up, I followed a lot of customs without thinking twice, as they are part of my everyday life. But after moving to Hawaii and seeing my culture from a different perspective, I started to realize how thoughtful and meaningful those small nuances are. Subtle actions like bowing, saying いただきます (itadakimasu = thanking for the food), and even how we receive name cards, all come from a deep sense of respect and care for others.

Being an “onsen enthusiast,” what are some of the best onsens you’ve visited in the Kanto region, and your personal favorite?

I’ve been lucky to visit quite a few wonderful onsens around the Kanto region, and Hakone is definitely popular for good reason; its hot springs are beautiful and offer a relaxing escape from the city.

One of my personal favorites is the onsen in Izu, Shizuoka, where the water is incredibly clear and refreshing. Soaking in the hot springs while enjoying the breathtaking view of Mt. Fuji makes it a truly unforgettable experience.

Are there any lesser-known Tokyo spots you particularly enjoy introducing to visitors, places perhaps only locals would know? What significance does this place hold for you?

It might not be a completely hidden gem, but I love taking my friends to Inokashira Park in Kichijoji. It’s one of Tokyo’s largest parks, covering about 430,000 square meters, and it’s been around for over 100 years! The park offers a refreshing escape from the busy city life, with a huge pond where you can rent swan boats, stunning cherry blossoms that make it perfect for hanami in the spring, and even a small zoo and aquarium inside the park.

For me, the park holds many personal memories. It’s a place where I always feel grounded within the ever-changing city of Tokyo.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone hesitant about stepping outside their comfort zone while traveling in Japan?

I would say, taking that small step can be very scary at first – and I know that feeling too well because I felt the same way when I first moved to Hawaii – but that small step can open up a whole new world of experiences. Japan has so many unique foods and traditions, and people here are usually very friendly and understanding.

Whether it’s challenging yourself to a new food or simply striking up a conversation with the locals, those moments often become the most memorable parts of a trip. Try to stay open-minded and give it a chance – you might end up loving it!

For this series, we want to hear from everyone: what’s one piece of travel advice you’d offer to all guests visiting Japan?

Try to take your time and really soak in the experience! Japan has so much to offer – from vibrant pop culture to peaceful temples – and if you try to rush through them, you might miss the best moments. Stay curious, and don’t be afraid to get a little lost. Often, it’s those unexpected moments that become your favorite memories.

Thanks for sharing, Megumi! Your unique perspective, passion, and insights really enrich our understanding of Japan’s vibrant culture. You reveal how travel becomes a journey of connection and discovery, inspiring travelers to embrace Japan’s essence.

Check her profile on our Team page: https://arigatotravel.com/about-us/our-team 

Featured Photo Credit: Megumi

Let Megumi be a part of your next trip to Japan. Our Tailored Travel team is more than ready to help you craft a perfect Japanese Adventure, tailored just for you!