What Are We?
Okuni is a high-end in-country travel agency, a concierge service for visiting agents and media, and a consultancy for destinations within Japan wanting to increase their recognition to inbound travelers.
Our clients are primarily from English-speaking countries (predominantly US, UK, & Australia). They include corporate CEOs, Hollywood A-listers, IT entrepreneurs, and other independently wealthy individuals. In addition, we introduce travel writers and influencers to destinations and stories that help promote varied aspects of Japan.
We believe in relationships and invest our time in building them with our Japanese partners and suppliers and with the agents who trust us with their VIP clients.
What Sets Us Apart?
Our roots are in tourism consulting and it is our passion for supporting lesser-known destinations, local artisans, and independently owned properties that motivates us. We have spent years traveling throughout the country, finding the locations and experiences that rarely appear on standard Japan itineraries. Our goal from the outset has been to create trips that allow our clients to discover the true depth and beauty that quietly and steadily defines Japan.
Since Okuni was founded in 2018 we have operated on a referral-only basis, maintaining just enough of a web and social media presence to let our Japanese partners know that we actually exist and because we can’t resist showing off this incredible country.
It’s Personal
Above all, we design every trip based on individual interests and passions, drawing from Japan’s incomparable and varied cuisine to its endless array of skilled artisans and craftspeople; from its awe-inspiring architecture to its profound natural beauty. Our expert guides lead the way while we handle all the arrangements and provide assistance and support 24/7.
Who Are We
Julia Maeda
Originally from England, Julia has lived in Japan for over 28 years and has raised three boys here, all of who have now flown the nest…for now!
After many many years of exploring the length & breadth of her adopted country and acting as a tour guide for visiting family & friends, Julia created her own company – Tokyo Personalised – to introduce visitors to a deeper level of life in the capital city. This combined with work promoting remote areas of Japan and consulting for the National Parks agency, led to the creation of a Japan-wide travel agency – Okuni.
Julia lives in Tokyo with her Japanese husband (originally from Aomori) and their rescue pup Nezu-chan (originally from Shikoku), although much of her time is spent continuing to the search the country for special places, people and experiences to introduce to her clients.
Hugo Oroz
Rooted in a background of linguistics and literature, Hugo came to Japan from Spain in 2022 and has devoted himself to its culture ever since.
After studying Japanese at Doshisha University in Kyoto, he worked as interpreter and international coordinator for a VIP photography service before joining Okuni.
Today, he works side by side with Julia, crafting bespoke itineraries and developing new relationships and luxury experiences.
The quintessential Kyoto-guy almost by accident, he has become a geisha expert along the way.
He is fluent in Japanese, German, Spanish, and English, and has far more books than hours to read them.
Yuko Kutami
Originally from Fukuoka, Kyushu — and a proud moss enthusiast.
After spending nine years in London, she returned to Japan and relocated to the nature-rich region of Niigata. There, she spent six years immersed in hands-on, nature-based activities, including cultivating moss, leading moss terrarium workshops, and tree climbing.
She currently works as a Director of Operations at OKUNI, where she supports clients’ journeys from behind the scenes.
If you would like to get in touch, please ask one of our mutual friends to connect us.
Tokyo Governor Registered Travel Agency 3-8059