- The Real Japan has just been named Best Japanese Travel Experts 2025 by LUXlife Magazine
- Why this award matters (for you)
- How I can help you
- "If I'm going to Japan I want to do it right!"
- A final thought
- Some of my popular guides
- Leave A Comment / Ask A Question
- I'm Rob, and I've been where you are
- Benefits You Can Choose
- What Clients Say
- How It Works
- Ways I Can Help You With Concierge
- Ready to Get Started?
The Real Japan has just been named Best Japanese Travel Experts 2025 by LUXlife Magazine
I’ve got some exciting news to share…
The Real Japan has just been named Best Japanese Travel Experts 2025 by LUXlife Magazine as part of their Travel & Tourism Awards.
It came as a bit of a surprise if I’m honest. I didn’t set out to win awards. I started The Real Japan because, since my first trip in 2000, I’ve been captivated by how much more there is to Japan than what most people get to see.
Don’t get me wrong – I love Tokyo, Kyoto, and Mount Fuji. But some of the most unforgettable moments I’ve had in Japan were getting lost in tiny mountain villages, soaking in remote onsen towns few guidebooks mention, staying in historic ryokan, or discovering coffee shops tucked-away in city side streets.
That’s the Japan I want to share with you.
Why this award matters (for you)
Being recognised by an international travel publication is a real honour – especially because this isn’t some paid listing or vanity badge. Here’s what LUXlife Magazine said about The Real Japan:
“The Real Japan showcases a commitment to unique, authentic travel experiences, providing tailored guidance that truly helps travellers discover the essence of Japan.” – LUXlife Magazine, Travel & Tourism Awards 2025
What I really hope this does is give you more confidence that when you use this site – whether it’s reading the blog guides, watching my videos, downloading one of the resources, or booking time through my Concierge service – you’re getting advice from someone who’s spent the last 25 years figuring out how to explore Japan deeply, affordably, and meaningfully.
How I can help you
If you’re thinking:
- “I want to plan a trip but I don’t know where to start…”
- “I’ve already been before, but I want to go deeper next time…”
- “I want to avoid tourist traps and see Japan’s real culture…”
…then I can help.
That might mean:
- You use my free guides to get ideas for your itinerary
- You watch my Japan travel videos or listen to my Deep Dive podcast for ideas and inspiration
- Or you book time through my Concierge service for custom planning advice
You’re always welcome here.
Should you be interested in my custom planning advice, I only offer a handful of services each year to ensure the optimum service delivery to my clients. Check my current availability on my Travel Planning Services page.
“If I’m going to Japan I want to do it right!”
A final thought
This award means a lot – but even more meaningful to me are the emails I get from readers who say, “We just got back from Japan and had the best trip of our lives. Thank you.”
So, thank you for being part of this. Whether you’ve followed my work for years or just found the site today, I’m glad you’re here.
Here’s to discovering more of The Real Japan together.
Rob
Want a Japan trip that perfectly balances the iconic and the authentic? Concierge is my personalised travel planning service crafting journeys that align with your specific interests while incorporating both must-see highlights and hidden gems most tourists miss. Together, we’ll create an experience that goes beyond the surface, connecting you with the Japan you’ve always dreamed of discovering.
I’m Rob, and I’ve been where you are
I understand the struggle of building an itinerary that perfectly balances the iconic and authentic sides of Japan.
That’s why I founded The Real Japan, a place where independent travellers like you can thrive. My passion for sharing Japan beyond the cliches is what drives me.
I offer more that just inspiration; I provide personalised, unique and tailor-made travel plans to take your travels in Japan to the next level.
Want to see how I can transform your Japan travel?
Benefits You Can Choose
Personal Itinerary
A tailor-made Japan Travel Plan matching your personal interests
and preferences
Unique Experiences
A unique Artisan Experiences Plan giving you private access to Japan’s finest craftspeople
Perfect Lodging
Curated accommodation/hotels recommendations based on your needs and criteria
What Clients Say
Practical advice, suggestions and recommendations
“Rob will actually prepare a detailed day-by-day itinerary with activities and day-trip ideas, transport indications and relevant hyper-links to places, guides and other interests.“
Mario Mizzi
Malta
Incredibly valuable to re-working my itinerary
“I was unclear on scheduling and logistics and I needed some advice on best sights and cities. The service provided by Rob was incredibly valuable to re-working my itinerary. Picking Rob’s brain was extremely useful.”
Martine F
Canada
Saved me more than the cost of the service. Excellent stuff!
“I spent weeks deciding what to do. Just a few tweaks with Rob and I’m now even more excited than ever! For me, the service was to get the best experiences and best use of my time while there.“
Andrew Rondeau
UK
How It Works
Step 1: Book your service
Choose the plan duration that best fits your needs.
I have 4 options to choose from.
Step 2: I’ll handle all the details
I’ll ask you questions, we can jump on a Zoom call,
or you can email me your draft ideas.
Step 3: Your dream Japan
I set aside time to work exclusively on your travel plans.
I deliver your personal solution.
Ways I Can Help You With Concierge
Ready to Get Started?
Some of my popular guides
