How TokudAw Creates Flexible, Personal, and Heartfelt Journeys in Japan

At TokudAw, we take every piece of feedback seriously—especially when it reveals where we can be clearer. Our guests matter deeply to us, and we want to take a moment to explain how we work, why we work this way, and what we stand for.

We’re a Japan-based Destination Management Company (DMC) with three core divisions: a licensed travel agency, our own transportation fleet (Japan Private Drivers), and a consulting department supporting businesses looking to enter the Japanese market.

For travelers, our focus lies in the first two. As both a luxury travel agency and private transport provider, we specialize in bespoke Japan itineraries paired with door-to-door car travel. Many of our guests are multi-generational families or travelers with accessibility needs—but just as often, they’re people who simply want a slower, more thoughtful way to explore.

We build every itinerary around your pace, priorities, and interests—then handle the logistics with care and insight from a team that knows Japan deeply.

Whenever possible, we proudly assign trips to our in-house fleet and trained drivers. However, because our transportation department is still growing—and demand often surges during peak travel seasons—we also work with a trusted network of long-time partners. These suppliers are personally vetted, trained to meet our standards, and many have been with us since the beginning. We see them not as third parties, but as an extension of our team.

It’s worth noting that unlike most travel agencies in Japan, TokudAw operates its own licensed fleet under Japan Private Drivers. This allows us to uniquely combine itinerary planning with in-house transport. That said, when trips fall outside our licensed region (such as beyond Tokyo or Tokyo Disney Resort), or the group size requires different vehicle types, we assign a partner vehicle to ensure comfort and continuity.

We also want to clarify a point about our drivers’ language and background.

All TokudAw drivers—whether Japanese or international—are chosen for their professionalism, patience, and warm hospitality. While fluent English may not always be guaranteed, many guests tell us that kindness, curiosity, and a good translation app go a long way. Often, these moments of cross-cultural connection become highlights of the trip.

Japan is currently welcoming more international professionals into the transportation sector, and we believe this growing diversity only strengthens the quality of care our guests receive.

On that note, it's helpful to know that drivers are not the same as guides. While your driver may offer local tips or help you avoid tourist traps, their focus is on getting you from place to place safely and comfortably. If you'd like deeper cultural context, guided walks, or historical storytelling, we can arrange for a licensed guide to accompany you at an additional cost. Some guests want that—others don’t. We’re here to make either happen.

We also want to take a moment to reaffirm something close to our hearts.

TokudAw’s mission is to foster understanding between Japanese and non-Japanese individuals and businesses through connection, kindness, and meaningful travel. We work with a diverse team from many backgrounds and are deeply proud of that.

Recently, we encountered a situation in which a guest mistreated and misunderstood both a driver and our wider team. Though we chose to complete the service for the guest’s sake, we want to be clear: we expect respect on both sides. Everyone at TokudAw—from drivers to coordinators—is here to support your trip with care. In return, we ask that all interactions reflect mutual respect and open-mindedness. If behavior compromises the wellbeing of our team or contradicts our values, we reserve the right to end service.

Finally, a gentle reminder: the more you share with us, the better your experience will be. Let us know what matters—your pace, accessibility needs, dietary requirements, or the kind of trip you’re dreaming of—and we’ll take care of the rest. We’re here to listen, plan, and support every step of the way.

At the heart of TokudAw is a simple goal: to provide flexible, well-executed travel experiences that align with how you like to explore. We’re grateful to every guest who’s trusted us—and to every lesson that helps us serve you better.

— Wanping

Co-Founder & Managing Director, TokudAw Inc.