
Meet Sae, our vibrant HR & Training Manager, Kansai Regional Coordinator, and guide, whose love for Japanese culture radiates in everything she does. Born in Nagoya and shaped by experiences in New Zealand and Canada, Sae brings a fresh, global perspective to sharing Japan’s charms. From […]

When travelers plan a trip to Japan, they often picture the high-speed rush of the Shinkansen connecting bustling cities like Tokyo and Kyoto. It’s a journey of neon lights, crowded crossings, and famous landmarks. However, the true heart of Japan often lies just beyond the main […]

Today, we’re joined by Yuki san at Discovery Bicycle Tours, who is inviting us to see Japan from a fresh perspective: on two wheels. With eco-friendly e-bikes and warm, knowledgeable guides, their tours take travelers to and beyond the usual sightseeing spots and into the everyday […]

We’re excited to announce that Arigato Travel has officially joined IGLTA, the world’s leading network of LGBTQ+-welcoming tourism businesses, reaffirming our commitment to inclusive travel in Japan. We’ve shared the full press release here if you’d like to learn more! To celebrate this milestone, we sat […]

Born in Paris but with a heart fully captivated by Japan, Jessica brings her passion for Japanese culture, music, and food to life as Arigato Travel’s Marketing, Sales, and Business Development Director. After over six years in the gaming industry, she courageously left it all behind […]

When many people think of Japanese tea, the vibrant green powder of matcha often comes to mind. It’s a symbol of traditional ceremonies and a popular flavor worldwide. However, the world of Japanese tea is far richer and more diverse. Deep within this culture is sencha, […]

When people think of dining with a view, few would think of a meal on a lake with an iconic landmark in the background. But imagine enjoying a fine dining experience of meals curated using locally sourced food and wines, while drifting seamlessly across Lake Kawaguchi, […]

When we think of Japanese art inspired by nature, we might first picture the elegant, minimalist art of ikebana (flower arrangement) or the bold strokes of sumi-e (ink painting). These forms capture the spirit and impermanence of nature. However, there is another art form, one that […]

To start, could you briefly introduce yourself and share what led you to open OKAMI LABO? How long has it been open? Hello, my name is Nobuko Matsuzaka, the owner of Chōkatsu OKAMI LABO. After graduating from university in Tokyo, I worked for five years as […]

In the latest installment of the Arigato Staff Series, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Karina, one of our most beloved and knowledgeable travel professionals. Join us as we delve into her fascinating personal narrative, tracing her remarkable path from her vibrant homeland of […]