Karen Blanch

After living in Japan for five years, learning the language and working within the Japanese professional world, I’m excited to share my experience and enthusiasm with travellers discovering Japan for the first time (or the second, or the third…).

With a background in art and design, I’m especially passionate about Japan’s creative world: its galleries, architecture, and local shops where craftsmanship tells stories centuries old. I love helping culture lovers and adventure seekers uncover Japan beyond the typical tourist routes. Between learning Ikebana flower arrangement in Kyoto, crossing Japan’s most haunted tunnel or spotting a flying fox in the Okinawan rainforest - I believe the most authentic and genuine experiences often occur when you wander and when you let yourself be surprised by life without rushing. Well, except if you are climbing Mount Fuji - in that case, definitely do not wander off the path!

As part of Japanspecialist, my goal is to design trips that feel personal, thoughtful, and full of discovery; and as a vegetarian, I know how difficult it can be to travel with dietary restrictions. I’m happy to help travellers with special needs enjoy Japan without compromise.