About Me

My name is Curtis and I started Japan Travel Specialist in March 2011, after leaving Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) in Los Angeles after working for the Japanese government's tourism bureau for over 3 years. Having a passion for helping travelers when it comes to Japan, I decided to start this business while living here in Tokyo.

I decided to move back to Tokyo with my wife and my 4 year old daughter on April 2011, one month after the big earthquake that hit Tohoku area of Japan. I lived in Tokyo for 4 years before moving to LA and my wife was born and raised in Tokyo. 

One thing I enjoyed the most at JNTO was helping people with their travel questions and plans. I always enjoyed answering the phone and answering the many questions that others had when it came to traveling throughout Japan. My goal was to always provide the best most accurate information so the traveler would have an unforgettable experience in Japan.

Having lived in various parts of Japan for 7 years and traveled extensively throughout the country, I know Japan pretty well. Sure I don't know everything, but I do have know a fair bit that I can put together an unforgettable journey for you. 

I feel there is a need for the services that I provide. Sure there are many "group" tours out there and they are affordable but lets be honest, big group tours are not for everyone and I am one of them. 

Everyone has their own interests and pace when it comes to traveling. Most of us don't want to be rushed from place to place just getting a small taste for the area. Japan is not one of those places where you can be rushed as there is so much you miss when you take a bus group tour.  I enjoy exploring the area try to get a good feel about it and if possible try to get off the beaten path.  I will do my best to give you the most memorable experience, one that you can write home about and brag to your friends for many years.  

As mentioned, I have been in the customer service industry for over 10 years now with my first job being in the hotel industry when I was in high school. I enjoy working with people and I enjoy making people smile. I hope that when our tour is finished you will walk away with a big grin on your face and most importantly a happy client. 

So what are you waiting for? Come and join me in Tokyo and let me be your guide to show you what a true "Japan Travel Specialist" can do so that you can have an unforgettable experience in the land of hospitality and the rising sun! 

My Promise to You:

• I will provide you with timely service when it comes to emails and phone calls. Although I am in Japan I will do my best to reply to your email within 48 hours.
• I will be honest and upfront with you with no hidden charges or fees and if I feel you might be better off doing a tour by yourself or a group tour.
• I will provide you with my email and phone number in Japan should you be needing any additional assistance when you are in Japan before/after our tour. I will do my best to answer your call or email in a prompt manner, provided that I am not on another job or engaged in another activity.   
• I am a very strict with time and will be on time to our meeting place and I expect the client to do the same. In Japan, it is considered rude to be late and that is why when the bus or trains are even a few minutes late they driver will apologize for the delay. Please note if you call and let me know ahead of time, I don't mind and I also don't mind if you are 5-10 minutes late either as I do understand things happen. Please try to be on time though.