Founder / CEO
Shinobu Nakajima
Unlock the Secrets of Tokyo
Your Journey, Your Rules,37 Million Stories to Discover!
Step into Tokyo, the world’s ultimate urban jungle, and prepare to have your senses dazzled. Forget the guidebooks and the same-old tourist traps. Say goodbye to the notion of Tokyo as just another bustling, impersonal megacity. With CONNECT, we’re ripping up the script and handing you the pen.
Why settle for the Tokyo everyone knows—the neon glow of Shibuya, the ancient whispers of Asakusa, or the sky-high glamour of Roppongi? We’re offering you a backstage pass to the city’s hidden gems, where traditional romances innovation, and the future are sewn with threads of the past.
Dive into Tokyo’s underground fashion scenes that set global trends. Get lost in subcultures so unique they’ll blow your mind. Feel the pulse of a city where diverse cultures are wrapped in an unmistakably Japanese elegance. Witness the awe-striking harmony of ancient history and bleeding-edge technology, all set against a backdrop of natural wonders that defy the city’s concrete reputation.
So, what’s your Tokyo? A city of 37 million souls, each with a story to tell, each a world of its own. Your Tokyo adventure is a blank canvas, and we’re handing you the brush.
Ready to CONNECT? Let’s discover the Tokyo that’s waiting for you, and you alone. Your journey starts now.
Who’s e-Sherpa?
Guiding Your Journey
Summit Experiences
Embark on an extraordinary travel journey with our professional Sherpas.
They will elevate your exploration to new heights,
guiding you through immersive experiences that go beyond the ordinary,
opening doors to hidden gems and unforgettable moments.
Chief Sherpa
Ayako Furuya
Ayako was born and raised in Tokyo. After graduating from the master's course at Ochanomizu University in Tokyo, she worked as a docent at the National Museum of Emerging Science and Technology. Since her major was the history of fashion in Japan in 19-20th century, she loves to talk about Kimono and other culture!
She has over ten years of experience as an English-speaking tour guide in Japan with a Japanese National License of Guide-Interpreter in English. Though her main field is the greater Tokyo area, she often travels to countryside. Furthermore, she has led many trekking tours into Hakone / Nakasendo area.
She also had seminars for local English-speaking tour guides throughout Japan organized by national/local government. This is the reason why she knows hidden jems and untold stories of local areas.
Her passion is introducing many aspects of Japan and highlighting its natural and cultural charms based on of her broad knowledge of Japanese culture, museums, and education.
Let’s talk with Ayako for your ideal trip in Japan!View Other Shelpas
SERVICE ARCHITECTURE
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01Wander Prompt
Ignite Ignite your wanderlustVirtual Tours
Experience captivating virtual tours of Japan guided by our local experts. Let our virtual tours ignite your wanderlust and transport you to the heart of Japan, where you can see, feel, and immerse yourself in its rich culture and breathtaking beauty.
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02Pre-Voyage
Bespoke Bespoke travel, curated by your conciergeTravel Concierge and Curation Service
Discover the epitome of personalized travel with our bespoke concierge service. Our knowledgeable experts curate tailor-made itineraries, ensuring every aspect of your journey is meticulously crafted to reflect your unique preferences and desires
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03Journey Vital
Sherpa, e-Sherpa Guiding Your Journey to Summit ExperiencesTravel Guide and Attendant
Embark on an extraordinary travel journey with our professional Sherpas. They will elevate your exploration to new heights, guiding you through immersive experiences that go beyond the ordinary, opening doors to hidden gems and unforgettable moments.
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04Post-Quest
Travelers' Hub Ignite the Nexus of our Travelers' CommunityTravelers' Community
Become part of our vibrant Travelers’ Hub, where connections are sparked, experiences are shared, and recommendations flow freely. Collaborate, seek advice, and engage with fellow travelers, igniting a nexus of inspiration, discovery, and collective wanderlust
Top Tips & Q&A
Why do some Japanese people avoid eye contact?
In many Western cultures, eye contact is seen as a sign of confidence and attentiveness. However, in Japan, prolonged eye contact can be considered rude or confrontational. It’s a subtle way of maintaining harmony and respecting personal space.
What’s the deal with seasonal flavors in Japan?
Japan takes its seasons seriously, and this extends to food and drinks. From sakura-flavored treats in spring to sweet potato goodies in autumn, seasonal flavors offer a unique way to experience Japan’s deep connection with nature’s cycles.
Why do Japanese people point to their noses when referring to themselves?
While many people around the world point to their chest when referring to themselves, in Japan, people often point to their nose. This unique gesture is a fascinating insight into how different cultures perceive the “self.”
Why are there so many vending machines in Japan?
Beyond convenience, vending machines are a reflection of Japan’s high level of public safety and trust. You’ll find them in remote locations and even selling items you wouldn’t expect, like umbrellas or fresh eggs!
What’s the story behind Japan’s fascination with cute (kawaii) culture?
“Kawaii” culture goes beyond just being cute; it’s a form of rebellion against traditional societal pressures. It gives people the freedom to express individuality and vulnerability, which is otherwise often suppressed.
