Modesto, CA: Can you recommend a good tour company for a single senior in April to Japan? I am interested in a small group tour that visits fewer cities with more depth rather than many cities of a few days each.

Chris Rowthorn: Hi,
Thanks for the question.
I offer private walking tours of Kyoto, Nara and Tokyo. My website is chrisrowthorn.com. If we can't help you, we can surely point you in the direction of someone who can.
I hope this helps.
Cheers,
Chris

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Whitehouse, TX: I was planning a trip to Japan as a graduation present for my son. He has been fascinated with everything Japanese since he was 3 yrs old. We wanted to go in March (over spring break) or the beginning of June, 2007 for 8-10 days. We would like to see as much as possible; particularly, things dealing with video games and anime. We have been on some escorted tours, which are very informative; but, we would like more time to explore on our own. Please help us to acheive a balance between a tour and time on our own, plus help us choose which areas would be best suited for our short amount of time. Any help would be appreciated! Thank you, Karan

Chris Rowthorn: Hi,
Thanks for the question.
I recommend Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto for you and your son. Tokyo has plenty of high-tech and pop-culture stuff for your son, and Osaka has some as well. Kyoto should be interesting for both of you. The Umekoji Steam Locomotive Museum in Kyoto is great for both kids and adults.
Please contact me via my website at chrisrowthorn.com if you would like more information.
Hope this helps.
Cheers,
Chris

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Seattle, WA: My wife of 12 years was born in Tokyo. I am trying to plan a 2 to 4 week vacation for next year, a big b'day for her. I want to include Japan and Korea where her parents are from, but every time I check out airfares with both countries in a tentative itinerary, they get out of hand. It seems like we might have to go to Japan one year and then Korea the next. Also, I am looking at either Business Class or a Premium Coach like ANA provides from Los Angeles, I think. I'm 6'2" and need the extra room for the transpacific segments, at least. What would you suggest for us in terms of tour companies, airlines, etc.? Thanks, Hal

Chris Rowthorn: Hi,
I have flown various airlines between Japan and the States.
I prefer JAL in terms of price and service. If price isn't an issue, then I suggest ANA, which is excellent.
I hope this helps.
Cheers,
Chris

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Oxnard, CA: Hi Chris, My finacee and I are certified Disney fanatics, and after hearing all the great stories about Tokyo Disneyland, we have to see it for ourselves. Unlike the Disney theme parks in the US, there's not much help or information out there to help with planning a visit to Tokyo Disneyland. Can you provide any suggestions as far as planning and booking a trip, accommodations, and tickets to the theme park? Thanks!

Chris Rowthorn: Hi,
Thanks for the question.
Off the top of my head, I cannot give you detailed information. But, I would be happy to do some research and get back to you. Can you please email me via my site at chrisrowthorn.com.
I hope to hear from you.
Cheers,
Chris

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Houston, TX: Hi Chris! Three adults and three home-schooled daughters (ages 6, 8 & 10) will be traveling to Japan in March 2007 (arriving Narita 16 Mar & departing same 14 days later on 30 Mar). We are interested in off-the-beaten-track sights between Tokyo & Kyoto. If you were us, what would you recommend for sites & stays? How much should we plan ahead? Should we book all accommodations before arrival (we are interested in staying mostly in ryokans and minshukus)? Or would we be better off using a destination specialist to make all these arrangements for us? Any recommendations? Also, would you recommend the services of a tour guide for such a group as us? Any recommendations? Any suggestions for budget? Is a trip like this do-able on less than US$125/day per person (land only)? Thanks a bunch!

Chris Rowthorn: Hi,
Seems like time is up, so I am going to ask that you contact me via my website at chrisrowthorn.com. I would be happy to offer some suggestions and advice.
I hope to hear from you.
Thanks, by the way, to everyone who sent in questions.
I certainly hope that you enjoy your trips to Japan. It is, in my opinion, one of the world's most rewarding destinations.
Please contact me if I can help in your planning in any way.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Thanks again,
Chris

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