About Me
Hi, I'm Mayu!
Born and raised in Kyoto | Mom of 2 boys
I am the owner of KIGO Travel and a Travel Consultant based in Kyoto, Japan. With a passion for creating personalized and memorable travel experiences, my journey began with a lifelong love for exploring new places and cultures, including Japan's rich traditions.
Travel has always been my calling. After finishing high school in Victoria, BC, Canada, and getting a degree in Tourism Management from the University of Queensland, Australia, I came back home to work in the inbound industry.
Over the past decade, I've held various roles in the travel sector, from International Liaison Manager to Tour Operator and Executive Assistant. Since 2017, I've also been providing personal e-Concierge services and crafting custom itineraries for international travelers.
In 2023, I left my 9-5 job to start my own agency. Now, I’m fully committed to providing personalized services for my clients and helping travelers explore Japan.
Take a Closer Look
Your guide to where I stand on all the truly important things.
MY FAVORITE PART OF CREATING TAILORED EXPERIENCES FOR CLIENTS
I find great fulfillment in crafting experiences for clients, as it allows me to contribute meaningfully to their journey. In a world with countless career paths and opportunities, my choice to thrive in the tourism industry stems from a profound belief in travel as a transformative life investment. I am driven by the conviction that travel not only broadens horizons but also nurtures personal growth, inspires individuals, and fosters a positive outlook on life. Being able to contribute to these transformative moments through personalized travel experiences is what fuels my passion for what I do.
A MEMORABLE MOMENT FROM ONE OF MY TOURS
One of the most cherished moments from my previous work involves curating a two-week holiday in Japan for a delightful French couple. The gentleman, secretly planning to propose to his girlfriend during the trip, sought my assistance in creating memorable surprises at each accommodation they visited. Entrusting me with his girlfriend's interests, he allowed me to use my expertise to select and prepare thoughtful gifts. I took the initiative to coordinate with all the accommodation providers, ensuring romantic settings were arranged. Witnessing the successful proposal at the journey's end was incredibly heartwarming. Being part of such a special and romantic milestone was not only professionally fulfilling but also a genuinely joyful experience.
DESTINATIONS OR ACTIVITIES IN JAPAN I PERSONALLY ENJOY THE MOST
I have a deep affection for my hometown, Kyoto, and my favorite place in Kyoto is probably the hidden Roji (back alley) Aquarium at Pontocho, but I hold a special place in my heart for Ise in Mie Prefecture. The ambiance around Ise Shrine is truly sacred, offering a sense of purity. My fondness for Ise dates back to my youth, where I spent summer breaks in Minami-Ise, a small fishing town in eastern Mie, indulging in marine activities at Gokasho Bay and BBQs in a family cottage. The serene nature, the beautiful night sky, and the tranquility of remote areas in Ise have always resonated with my love for nature. It's these authentic experiences that I find particularly enriching and indelible.
MY ASPIRATIONS THAT DRIVE ME MY ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY
In a society where women, particularly in Japan, often make sacrifices for their families, I aim to challenge this narrative. Through my entrepreneurial path, I aspire to demonstrate that women, even as mothers, can achieve remarkable feats. My dream is to empower women, even if just a little, by showcasing that with a dream, proactive steps and a network of support, anything is possible. I believe in breaking barriers and inspiring positive change in societal perceptions.
