Our Story & Mission
We’re Laurie and Ryota, the people behind this project. Laurie moved to Japan from Belgium with a deep curiosity for culture, everyday life, and the hidden sides of the country that most visitors never get to experience. Ryota grew up in Japan and loves sharing the places, traditions, and small local spots that make the country truly special. Together, we combine two perspectives — local knowledge and an outsider’s curiosity — to help travelers discover a more authentic Japan. Instead of crowded tourist attractions, we focus on meaningful places, local experiences, and itineraries tailored to each person. Our goal is simple: to help you experience the Japan we know and love.
How Wafū Routes Began
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How Wafū Routes Began
Wafū Routes started from a simple realization: the most meaningful experiences in Japan are often the ones you don’t find in guidebooks. While exploring the country together, we discovered that the places that left the biggest impression were not the famous landmarks, but the small moments — a quiet street at sunset, a local restaurant run by the same family for generations, a hidden temple far from the crowds. When friends and visitors came to Japan, we loved helping them discover these places. Planning their trips and seeing how much they enjoyed these authentic experiences made us realize that many travelers are looking for something deeper than the typical tourist route. That’s how Wafū Routes was born. Today, we create personalized itineraries designed to help travelers experience Japan in a more authentic way — through local places, cultural moments, and journeys that feel personal and meaningful.