Questions
Before you write to me
I don't know what I want to see yet. Is that a problem?
Not at all — it's how most people start. Tell me what you enjoy at home and I'll bring the suggestions. Some of the best days are decided the morning of.
How much walking is involved?
Entirely up to you. A slow day can be three stops with trains in between; an active day can be most of a city on foot. Tell me in the form which you'd prefer, and say if anyone in the group needs step-free routes.
How far ahead should I write?
A few weeks is comfortable, because the planning happens by message before you fly. But if you're already here and tomorrow is free, ask anyway — it sometimes works.
We have children / someone who can't walk far. Is that all right?
Yes. Tell me in your first message and I'll build the day around lifts, flat approaches and places where sitting down is easy.
Can you meet us outside Kyoto and Osaka?
Often, yes. Nara and Kobe are both close enough for a day, and I take enquiries for anywhere in western Japan — Hiroshima, Okayama, the Seto Inland Sea. Ask me and I'll tell you honestly whether it's worth the travelling time.
I'm vegetarian, or I can't eat certain things.
Say so early and it stops being a problem. I keep a list of places that don't use dashi, and I'll do the asking for you at the counter.
Tell me when you're coming.
Your dates, how many of you there are, and one thing you're curious about. That's all I need to start drawing the day.