About Us

In 2016, we embarked on a mission to redefine the tour experience, aiming for a unique blend of authenticity, education, and entertainment. We set out to move beyond the dull recitations of facts and dates that could easily be found on a Wikipedia page and to shift away from oversized, impersonal groups. Our goal was to banish tedium and create engaging journeys.

Our aim is to forge personal connections with our guests, exposing them to renowned attractions and the lesser-known treasures often overlooked by larger tour operators. We delve deeper, showcasing how locals truly live, with an emphasis on the culturally fascinating and delightfully entertaining aspects of Japanese life.

We strongly believe language barriers shouldn’t impede your experience. Our guides possess native or near-native English proficiency and are equally comfortable in Japanese. For tours offered in other languages, you can rest assured that our guides are native speakers in those as well.

We envision tours as a perfect blend of entertainment and education, sometimes even tipping the scales towards fun because, after all, vacations are meant to be enjoyable! However, our well-trained guides are ready and able to provide as much information as you desire. We focus on delivering the right balance and crafting an experience tailored to your preferences.

With Pinpoint Traveler, you get to experience Japan as it should be – through the eyes of individuals who can communicate effectively and empathize with you, far surpassing the standard, checklist-style tours. Explore Japan’s vibrant past and captivating present with us, and create unforgettable memories.

Meet the Team Behind the Tours

Your satisfaction is our top priority. Every tour promoted on this site is conceived, created, and conducted by us. From the photographs and tour descriptions to our guides and blog content, everything is crafted in-house. We aren’t resellers; we stand behind our offerings with unwavering confidence.Our administrative team comprises both native English speakers, fluent in Japanese, and native Japanese speakers. We ensure that all email communications are clear and free from language barriers. We're even more than happy to converse with you over the phone (WhatsApp is acceptable) if you prefer.Pinpoint Traveler’s guides, introduced below, are not here to merely polish their English skills, as is sometimes the case with budget guides used by some competitors. They refrain from delivering monotonous recitals of dates and names. Instead, our guides prioritize delivering informative, relevant, and engaging tours, maintaining a lively and entertaining approach throughout.Our guides are a diverse mix of locals and foreign nationals living in Japan. Every guide is passionate about all things Japan and is fluent in Japanese and English. We also offer tours conducted in Spanish and French.

Laura

Guide in Kansai Region

Japan has always been a dream of mine; and it certainly hasn’t disappointed. I’ve now been living on this beautiful island for over seven years! Originally from France, I’ve always been fascinated by Japan’s deep culture, timeless beauty, and the authenticity of its people. Over time, I truly fell in love with the Kansai region, not only for its incredible variety of food, but also for the many warm and memorable encounters I’ve had here. That’s why I’m so excited to share this unique journey and experience with you during our tours!

Kensuke

Guide in Hiroshima Region

Based in Hiroshima, Kensuke has a deep appreciation for the city’s unique atmosphere, rich history, and incredible food. He enjoys exploring the roots of Japanese culture and traditions, and through his guiding, he aims to share not only historical facts but also the values and character that define the Japanese people. His goal is to convey perspectives and insights that only a native Japanese person can truly express.

Ferdinand

Guide in Kansai region

A native of France by birth, I have, for the past seven years, made my home in the city of Osaka, having previously resided in Tokyo. Combining my love for Japan, its rich traditions and culinary delights, and the simple pleasure of walking and meeting new people, I decided to pursue a career where I can have these fervent passions shared with others; because I am deeply in love with the somewhat timeworn charm of Osaka’s post-war industrial visage, and the mysterious and quiet charm of its labyrinthine alleyways.

Michelle

Guide in Tokyo Region

Taiwanese-Italian by heritage, Japan resident for the last 10 years, and lifelong fan of a good story. Though I’ve lived here long enough to know the quiet backstreets and the best local snacks, I still explore with the curiosity of a first-time visitor. Fluent in English (it’s the language I’ve always lived in), plus Japanese and Italian, I’m the kind of guide who makes you feel like you’re catching up with an old friend, the one who just happens to know all the history, hidden corners, and how to get the perfect photo.

ABOUT PINPOINT TRAVELER

The Pinpoint Traveler Story