Spotlight On: Laura

In this episode of Spotlight On we meet the Laura - the foudner and CEO of Hello! Tours. We have asked Laura some questions about some of her favorite things in Japan.

What's your favorite food and where would you recommend people to get it?

My favorite dessert is Daifuku Mochi and I like to get it from a very old family-run Japanese sweets shop in Nihonbashi which has been in business for over 100 years. They have traditional fillings but my favorite is the mochi filled with fresh Hokkaido cream.

What’s your favorite place to take people to on tours?

I love going to Hamarikyu Gardens because they are a place of serenity in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the metropolis of Tokyo. Visiting these former imperial gardens is like stepping back in time. You can enjoy Japanese matcha and traditional sweets in the floating teahouse, its a very special experience.

Other fun facts about Laura

Languages Laura guides in: English

Month and year Laura joined Hello! Tours: Oct 2013

One thing Laura likes about working with Hello! Tours:

The people! Since I founded Hello! Tours in 2013 I have been fortunate enough to work with the most amazing people. Kind, caring, hardworking, passionate people who continuously go out of their way to give others the best experiences and lasting memories. Hands down, the Hello! Tours team is the most incredible group of individuals I ever could have hoped to have met, and they have all come together to work as one big Hello! family.

Something not many people know about Laura:

Not many people know that when I was 24 years old I was on a UK TV programme called Total Wipeout which was a giant obstacle course. I was so bad that I often get featured in the reruns of the best of / worst off moments!

Spotlight On: Sid

In this episode of Spotlight On we meet Sid, one of the first guides for Tokyo. We have asked Sid some questions about some of his favorite things in Japan.

What's your favorite food and where would you recommend people to get it?

The fruit sandwich from Sembikiya is, one of, if not, the best fruit sandwich in the world. The milky bread, cushioned by their sweet cream and high quality fruits is the best! It’s a bit pricy but definitely worth it. Beware, there can be long lines!

What’s your favorite place to take people to on tours?

By visiting Nihonbashi, I believe you will understand the culture and history of Tokyo/Japan better. It’s a beautiful place that’s filled with hidden gems and historical sights. It amazes me that so many old stores have survived for so long there.

Other fun facts about SId

Languages Sid guides in: English and Japanese

Month and year Sid joined Hello! Tours: August 2018

One thing Sid likes about working with Hello! Japan:

I joined right before COVID-19 started, but the resilience and creativity of our team is what draws me the most. Even with the pandemic we’ve found ways to do what we love.

Something not many people know about Sid:

I love Brazlian Jiu Jitsu. I absolutely hate those injury videos where someone breaks an arm or leg, but I can’t stop practicing BJJ - where many injuries like that happen!

Spotlight On: Keko

In this episode of Spotlight On we meet Keko, one of the longest-standing members of the Hello! Tours Team. We have asked Keko some questions about some of his favorite things in Japan.

What's your favorite food and where would you recommend people to get it?

My favourite food is Tuna Sashimi! The best can be found at any of the stands at the Tsukiji Outer Market. The tuna is super fresh and the atmosphere is great!

What’s your favorite place to take people to on tours?

Harajuku cat cafe. It's the puurrrfect place to stop for a refreshment break in the summer heat and families with kids love it. Also, I have lots of friends at the cat cafe and you will get special treatment from all of the other cats!

Other fun facts about Keko

Languages Keko guides in: Meow meow.

Month and year Keko joined Hello! Tours: Oct 2013

One thing Keko likes about working with Hello! Japan:

I was the first member of the Hello! Tours team (apart from Laura) and I've been able to live in and learn about the culture of three great cities across Asia.

Something not many people know about Keko:

Not many people know that I am the Chief Operations Officer of Hello! Tours. Most people assume I am just some office pet.