The entire world is doing its best to stay safe at home, so we decided to bring the world to you. Explore famous locations across our planet on a guided virtual walking tour, led by one of our CEOs (Chief Experience Officers).
Next stop: Japan!
Join Kumiko, a G Adventures CEO, as she leads the way through the rich culture of Japan. Starting in Osaka, her virtual tour showcases the many faces of her homeland from the Buddhist monks of Kōyasan to the high rollers of Tokyo. Whether you dream of staying in a traditional ryokan, soaking in onsen hot springs or taking in views of Mt Fuji, you’ll feel transported by her expertise and enthusiasm.
Want to learn a bit more about Kumiko first? Check out our Q&A below as she shares a few of her favourite eats, experiences and books.
What’s your name, your hometown, and where do you lead tours?
My name is Kumiko Nakazawa from Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan and I’ve led tours quite extensively for nearly 5 years! Big cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Hiroshima, also some mountainous regions such as Nagano, Hida, Kumano pilgrimage area, and back roads in western Honshū island, like Yamaguchi, Tottori Shimane too!
What is one must-try local dish/drink?
If you’re on the Japan Express: Osaka to Tokyo tour: the Hiroshima Okonomiyaki, a savory pancake in Hiroshima style. In general: sushi!!! Fish in Japan is super fresh and sushi and sake go perfect together!
Tell us one “secret” not-to-be-missed spot on your tour and why it’s so special
Back alleys of the Gion district in Kyoto. The Gion district in the evening is full of atmosphere. You may be able to bump into a mysterious Geisha girl!
After travelling with you, what three words would you want travellers to use to describe your country?
Beautiful. Aesthetic. Kind.
What books/novels would you recommend to travellers who want to escape to your country via literature?
I would recommend “The Book of Tea” written by Okakura Tenshin in 1906. It introduces the term “Teaism” of Japan and how tea has affected nearly every aspect of Japanese culture. “Cha-no-yu” or the tea ceremony developed under the influence of Zen philosophy. Knowing the relationship between the tea ceremony and Zen would help you to understand the Japanese spirit that appreciates transience.
