Profile photo for Greg Varga
1057 messages
active 31 mins ago

Greg Varga

I’m all about helping you create the perfect Japan experience, tailored just for you. After a friendly chat to understand what you’re looking for—whether it’s exploring ancient temples, relaxing in a hot spring, tasting amazing food, or diving into the buzz of city life—I’ll design an itinerary that fits your pace and interests. I make sure everything flows smoothly, from trains to hotels, so you can relax and enjoy the journey without the stress. My goal is to create trips that feel personal, memorable, and effortless, giving you the best of Japan, your way.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"I will arrange all the essentials - accommodation, transportation, experiences, and a detailed day-by-day itinerary - to help you navigate Japan with ease. Whether it’s your first trip or a return visit, I’ll ensure everything is tailored to your interests and needs, so you can focus on enjoying the journey without the hassle of planning.

Accommodation
Whether you prefer luxury or practicality, I’ll find the perfect hotel to match your budget and style, from comfortable 3-star stays to 5-star luxury accommodations. If you’re interested in staying at a traditional ryokan—a Japanese inn that offers a glimpse into local culture with tatami rooms and hot spring baths—I can make recommendations based on the regions you’ll visit. I’ll take care of all the arrangements, ensuring your ryokan stay includes breakfast and dinner when available, so you experience the warmth of Japanese hospitality.

Transportation
Traveling in Japan is famously efficient, but it can be overwhelming to navigate. I’ll organize everything, from high-speed Shinkansen journeys to local trains, ferries, and buses. You’ll receive a detailed itinerary with train schedules and station names, making it easy to get where you need to go. I’ll also assist with tickets and any special passes to simplify your travel. Whether it’s getting around Tokyo’s intricate subway system or catching a ferry to a scenic island, I’ll ensure every aspect of transportation is seamless.

Experiences
From traditional cultural activities to cutting-edge modern attractions, I’ll arrange all the experiences you’re looking for. If you’re curious about Japanese traditions, I can book a tea ceremony, calligraphy class, or archery lesson. For those interested in performing arts, I’ll secure tickets to kabuki or Noh theatre performances. And if modern attractions are more your style, I can arrange visits to places like TeamLab Borderless, anime-themed cafés, or the Studio Ghibli Museum. Want to explore iconic landmarks such as the Tokyo Skytree or plan a day trip to the picturesque Miyajima Island? Leave it to me. I’ll take care of all reservations and entry tickets ahead of time, ensuring your experience is smooth and stress-free.

Japanese Food
Food is a key part of traveling in Japan, and I’ll help you make the most of it. In addition to daily restaurant recommendations, I’ll make reservations at authentic Japanese restaurants to ensure you enjoy the finest culinary experiences - from kaiseki dining to the best local ramen shops. If you’re staying at a ryokan, I’ll make sure you have meals included, so you can enjoy traditional breakfasts and multi-course dinners. I can also organize food tours, market visits, and sake tastings, giving you a deeper appreciation of Japan’s incredible food culture.

Anime & Disney
If you're an anime enthusiast or a Disney lover, I can craft an unforgettable trip tailored just for you. Whether you're dreaming of visiting the whimsical Studio Ghibli Museum or planning an adventure filled with Pokémon and anime-themed stops, I've got you covered. I can secure tickets to the Ghibli Museum (an absolute must for fans!) and organize full itineraries dedicated to your favorite franchises, like Pokémon, Sailor Moon, or even Demon Slayer. From visiting Akihabara’s bustling anime shops and arcades to sipping on character-inspired drinks at themed cafés, I’ll help you immerse yourself in Japan’s vibrant pop culture scene.

For Disney fans, I can arrange magical visits to Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea, two of the most unique Disney parks in the world. Want insider tips on the best rides, shows, and dining experiences? I’ll make sure your Disney days are absolutely perfect.

Looking to shop for rare collectibles, limited-edition merchandise, or cosplay gear? I can recommend the best spots, from sprawling anime superstores like Animate to hidden gems in Harajuku and Ikebukuro. If you’re seeking cultural balance, we can also mix in traditional Japanese experiences like a tea ceremony or kimono rental, giving you the best of both worlds.

With my help, you can focus on having fun while I handle all the reservations, tickets, and insider planning to make your trip as smooth as it is unforgettable."

How did you get involved in travel?

"My love of travel started when I was very young, with family trips to the mountains sparking my curiosity about new places. As I grew older, I went on hiking trips, which deepened my connection to nature and adventure. Eventually, I became a travel writer and, together with my wife, we created a travel website to share our experiences. Over the years, we’ve visited more than 75 countries, always drawn to the unique aspects of walking, food, and culture. These passions have shaped how we explore the world and continue to inspire our travels today."

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"My first time in Japan over 10 years ago was an unforgettable experience. Seeing the vibrant neon lights of Tokyo for the first time and visiting the serene mountain shrines left me in awe. It was at that moment I knew I wanted to live here someday. Over the years, I visited every year, falling deeper in love with the culture and landscapes. In 2024, my dream came true when my wife and I finally made the move to Japan. Experiencing this incredible country firsthand inspired me to share its beauty and magic with other travelers, helping them discover what makes Japan so special."

Greg is part of the following groups: Japan Travel Agents
Top itineraries and travel advice

Recent trip reviews for Greg

Amazing Japan Honeymoon
Japan | Mar 26 - Apr 9, 2025

R
Reena R.
Flagami, FL | Reviewed on Apr 13, 2025

Greg was amazing from start to finish. He creating our itinerary, checked in on us throughout the trip, and answered any and all questions within a day or two before and during our trip. Everything he planned from the events to sightseeing to hotels and restaurants were all great and we had no problems. He made sure we had everything we needed the first day when we arrived at the hotel in a packet that was well organized and easy to follow. We will definitely use Greg again when we go back to Japan. Thank you Greg for an unforgettable honeymoon trip to Japan.

Local specialist: Greg Varga
Greg
Greg Varga
Local specialist in Tokyo, Japan | Replied on Apr 18, 2025

Thank you so much Reena for the thoughtful review. I’m really glad everything went smoothly and that you had such a great time on your honeymoon—it was such a pleasure to help make that trip special. From the very beginning, you two were a joy to plan with, and I loved putting together something that felt right for the occasion. It’s great to hear that the itinerary and little details helped things flow easily for you. I’d be thrilled to help you plan your next adventure when you’re ready to come back to Japan.

First time trip to Japan - A fantastic experience!
Japan | Mar 27 - Apr 6, 2025

U
Ute S.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Apr 12, 2025
Greg put together a very personalized schedule for our first ever trip to Japan. We had selected to visit Tokyo, Hakone and Kyoto/Nara and wanted to see a mix of nature and culture. Our wish included to stay in traditional Ryokans, to experience a bath in a hot spring area and to have time for some hiking to explore the scenery. Greg tailored a perfect program for us with detailed descriptions for every day of our 10-Day trip. Besides lodging in amazing hotels and Ryokans, Greg took care of... Read more

Greg put together a very personalized schedule for our first ever trip to Japan. We had selected to visit Tokyo, Hakone and Kyoto/Nara and wanted to see a mix of nature and culture. Our wish included to stay in traditional Ryokans, to experience a bath in a hot spring area and to have time for some hiking to explore the scenery. Greg tailored a perfect program for us with detailed descriptions for every day of our 10-Day trip. Besides lodging in amazing hotels and Ryokans, Greg took care of all train tickets, entrees to museums and guided tours. Links to Google Maps made the navigation and use of public transportation very easy. Throughout our stay we felt taken care of, with Greg checking in on us on a regular basis.
While I usually plan all of my vacations myself, I believe that Greg's knowledge and professional input provided us with a deeper and more authentic experience in Japan. I highly recommend his services to anyone wishing to explore Japan.

Hotel Review
Hakone Kowakien Mikawaya Ryokan
Hakone

Stunningly beautiful setting. Exceptional food served for breakfast and dinner. Very friendly staff. We especially appreciated the private Onsen, right next to our cottage.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Greg Varga
Greg
Greg Varga
Local specialist in Tokyo, Japan | Replied on Apr 18, 2025

Thank you so much for your kind words. It truly means a lot that you trusted me with your very first trip to Japan. Tokyo, Hakone, and Kyoto are such beautiful places to explore, and it was a real pleasure to help you experience them in a way that felt personal and meaningful. I'm especially happy to hear that the daily details, train tickets, and Google Maps links helped make your travels smooth and enjoyable.
Thanks again for the lovely review—I’m so happy I got to be part of your Japan adventure, and I’d love to help you discover even more when you decide to come back.

We loved our trip to Japan and felt like we g...
Japan | Mar 20 - Mar 31, 2025

K
Kassandra R.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Apr 01, 2025
We loved our trip to Japan and felt like we got to see the highlights without having an itinerary that was overly rushed or packed. It was an excellent trip! Read more

We loved our trip to Japan and felt like we got to see the highlights without having an itinerary that was overly rushed or packed. It was an excellent trip!

Hotel Review
Gora Onsen Setsugetsuka Bettei Suiun

Incredible!!! Worth every penny and the highlight of our trip.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Greg Varga
Greg
Greg Varga
Local specialist in Tokyo, Japan | Replied on Apr 04, 2025

Thank you so much for taking the time to share this. I’m really happy to hear you loved your trip and came away with such amazing experiences and memories. That’s exactly the kind of journey I aim to create.

It was a pleasure helping plan this trip, and I’m so glad it turned into something special for you.

Travel for 5 people to Tokyo and Kyoto. We love both places!
Japan | Feb 23 - Mar 4, 2025

Rhonda
Rhonda M.
Makakilo City, HI | Reviewed on Mar 07, 2025
Travel for 5 people to Tokyo and Kyoto. We love both places! Best parts of the trip were:
Hotel Accommodations & Car Service: Excellent!
- Blossom Hibaya in Tokyo
- Hotel Higashiyama in Kyoto
- Car Service from and to airport, and to Disney: excellent drivers. On time and friendly.

Best Venues: Would recommend!
- TeamLab Borderless n Tokyo
- Tokyo Disney
- Nintendo Museum in Kyoto
Self guided tours of Temples - would have been better with knowledgable tour guide to help educate &... Read more

Travel for 5 people to Tokyo and Kyoto. We love both places!

Best parts of the trip were:
Hotel Accommodations & Car Service: Excellent!
- Blossom Hibaya in Tokyo
- Hotel Higashiyama in Kyoto
- Car Service from and to airport, and to Disney: excellent drivers. On time and friendly.

Best Venues: Would recommend!
- TeamLab Borderless n Tokyo
- Tokyo Disney
- Nintendo Museum in Kyoto

Self guided tours of Temples - would have been better with knowledgable tour guide to help educate & appreciate it.
Self guided tour of Kyoto Shrine: 3 mile walk was too long. Tori gates are beautiful. . Guide would be helpful.

Guided food tours: Interesting. Knowledgable tour guides. Probably only needed to do one.

Travel supplies:
-Bullet train tickets and directions - well done
-Tokyo metro tickets and directions - missing one ticket for 5th person. Directions were helpful.
-eSims not used. Not needed. Returned in envelopes provided. Mailed from hotel on last day.

Restaurant suggestions: very helpful
Shopping information: very helpful

Venues that needed additional info or cautions:
- Kyoto Tour Guide Max was wonderful! Highly recommend him.
-Travel to/around Bamboo forest - slippery, uneven rock steps. Caution for older or disabled travelers
-Bamboo forest itself was beautiful!
- Iwatayama Monkey Park - steep, uneven, slippery climb up a mountain. Caution elderly or disabled travelers.

Art museums; Multiple museums. In Tokyo and Kyoto. Variable size, content and interest.

General issues:
- Payment for 5th person at Blossom Hibaya in March missed. Direct payment made to hotel. Reimbursement coming.
- Nintendo Museum ticket errors (wrong name listed). Delay at gate as name had to be changed to match ID.
- Thank you for Shellfish Allergy info translated into Japanese for restaurants.

Local specialist: Greg Varga
Greg
Greg Varga
Local specialist in Tokyo, Japan | Replied on Mar 25, 2025
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughtful review. I’m really glad to hear you had such a great time in Tokyo and Kyoto, and that you loved the hotels, car service, and experiences like TeamLab, Disney, and the Nintendo Museum—those are always special highlights. I appreciate your honest feedback on the self-guided tours. It sounds like having a guide would have added a lot to your experience, especially at the temples and shrines. I would have been more than happy to arrange additional... Read more

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughtful review. I’m really glad to hear you had such a great time in Tokyo and Kyoto, and that you loved the hotels, car service, and experiences like TeamLab, Disney, and the Nintendo Museum—those are always special highlights.

I appreciate your honest feedback on the self-guided tours. It sounds like having a guide would have added a lot to your experience, especially at the temples and shrines. I would have been more than happy to arrange additional guided tours if I’d known you were interested.

Thanks also for pointing out the areas that might be tricky for travelers with mobility concerns, like the Bamboo Forest and Monkey Park. That’s really helpful insight for others planning similar trips.

I’m sorry to hear about the small mix-ups with the Tokyo Metro ticket and the Nintendo Museum entry, but I’m glad everything was sorted out in the end.

All in all, it sounds like a memorable trip with some great takeaways. Thank you again for taking the time to share your experience—it really means a lot. Should you decide to visit Japan again, I’d love to help plan your next adventure.