About
Who we are
Awayuki Travel is based in Niigata City, Japan, founded by us, Jen and Matt—a Canadian couple deeply inspired by the beauty and traditions of Japan.
As a registered travel agency (No.2-471) and a member of the Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA), we are fully licensed to arrange bespoke and private tours throughout Japan.
We comply with Japan’s strict travel regulations and provide special compensation coverage for accidents and personal belongings. Partnering with trusted and licensed service providers, we prioritize your safety, comfort, and well-being throughout your journey.
Our Philosophy
At Awayuki Travel, we craft exclusive journeys that go beyond conventional, mass-market attractions, guiding you to authentic destinations where locals live in harmony with their surroundings.
Whether it’s a private tea ceremony with a master, an intimate sake tasting with a brewer, or a stay in a centuries-old ryokan (Japanese style inn) where history and hospitality intertwine, every detail is thoughtfully curated to provide comfort without compromising authenticity.
We guide you through Japan’s breathtaking, lesser-visited landscapes across its 47 diverse prefectures, where you’ll encounter traditions, food, and cultures worth preserving.
Traveling off the beaten path requires local expertise, as information can be scarce and logistics more complex. While luxury travel infrastructure may be less apparent, it exists—often in the form of hidden ryokans, exclusive dining experiences, and bespoke cultural encounters that require deep local knowledge to access.
Sustainability is at the heart of what we do. Our itineraries support local and family-run businesses, ensuring your visit leaves a positive and lasting impact on the communities you explore.
Our Team
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Founder
Jennifer Spitz
Originally from Canada, I’ve always been drawn to Japanese cuisine and Zen philosophy. After a career in finance, I left the corporate world behind and moved to Japan to immerse myself in its language, arts, and craftsmanship.
Since then, I’ve had the privilege of learning kimono from master artisans, studying tea ceremony under a Buddhist monk, and uncovering a world of craftsmanship rarely seen by outsiders.
I speak English, Japanese, and Chinese, which helps me bridge cultures and connect with people from different backgrounds.
I founded Awayuki LLC to curate thoughtfully crafted travel experiences that reveal Japan’s hidden depths, beyond the usual tourist paths.
In my free time, I practice yoga, study tea ceremony, and explore Japan’s seasonal foods, seeking out new ryokans and restaurants. I enjoy discovering simple, authentic culinary experiences that reflect the unique regional culture of each place.
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Travel Designer
Mathew
I grew up in Toronto, Canada, with an early fascination for Japan that deepened after meeting a Japanese family while traveling. That encounter sparked a lifelong interest in the country’s rich culture, cuisine, and history, leading me to visit Japan for the first time in 2007. From that moment on, I returned every year, each trip further strengthening my connection to Japan.
In 2020, after years of exploring the country, Jen and I moved to Japan to fully immerse ourselves in its traditions and way of life. With backgrounds in finance and IT, we launched a licensed travel agency to share Japan’s hidden treasures with others in comfort and style.
Since moving here, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing Japan in ways I never imagined—meeting Peter Barakan, host of NHK’s Japanology, buying my own kimonos, and enjoying geisha performances in Niigata’s historic Furumachi district.
For me, the perfect day includes skiing or hiking in the mountains, unwinding in an onsen, and ending the evening with great food and sake. I look forward to helping you discover Japan’s beauty, nature, and incredible culinary culture.
Services
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For Individual Travelers and Small Groups
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Curated Private Tours
We offer a selection of single and multi-day private tours, thoughtfully designed to complement your travel plans. These can be added to your itinerary or customized as part of a more personalized journey with us.
Tours -
Bespoke Private Tours
Discover Japan with our bespoke tour services, designed to turn your travel dreams into reality. We pride ourselves on crafting personalized journeys that cater to your unique interests and preferences, ensuring every moment of your trip is exceptional.
We start with a consultation to understand your travel aspirations. Whether drawn to Japan’s cultural heritage, natural landscapes, or modern cities, your itinerary will suit your vision. Imagine a private tea ceremony, a hidden local dining spot, a behind-the-scenes visit to a craft workshop, or a serene hike through lush forests or peaceful mountain shrines—all with your own licensed private driver service to take you there. Stay in the finest hotels and ryokans, where comfort meets authenticity.
For more information, please contact us
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For Travel Agencies and Tour Operators
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Guiding & Interpretation
We provide professional guiding and interpretation services in English and Mandarin Chinese, helping your clients enjoy a smooth and insightful experience in Japan.
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DMC Services
As a licensed Type 2 travel agency in Japan, we assist travel agencies with arrangements for accommodations, transport, transfers, and dining. We collaborate with local partners to ensure a smooth and reliable service, making your clients’ travels effortless.
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