Thank you so much for your wonderful review! I still vividly remember that day — all the walking we did, the laughter we shared, and the delicious food we enjoyed. I often tell my family and friends about it, as if it happened just yesterday. It made me so happy to hear you speak about the beautiful things you discovered in Japan. And of course, the highlight was our outlet shopping adventure! I still wear our matching earrings often — they take priority over many of my other accessories, hahaha. Shopping with girl friends is truly more fun, and I guess that’s something universal! I look forward to seeing you again in Japan someday. Warm regards, Rika

Hi Tim, Thank you so much for your wonderful review — it truly warms my heart and encourages me. I still often think back to the wonderful time we spent together and share those memories with my friends and family. It was more than just sightseeing — I truly enjoyed our many conversations about different cultures with your intelligent and insightful mother, and I learned a great deal. Thank you for giving me such special memories. I’m planning to take a friend to that Belgian restaurant in Sannomiya’s dining district — the one with the delicious beer — and I’ll be sure to send you my impressions and some photos afterwards. Until recently, I thought Belgian chocolate was the most famous thing from Belgium, but thanks to you, I’ve discovered so many more charms of your country. Over the years, I’ve guided many international guests, but you and your mother asked the most thoughtful questions and truly engaged in cultural exchange. It gave me the opportunity to reflect on and deepen my own understanding of Japanese culture. Thank you so much for that! This work allows me to meet so many wonderful people and serves as a window to the world. I will continue to share the beauty of Japan — and Kobe in particular — with people from all around the globe. I hope our paths cross again someday — it would be a pleasure to see you both in Kobe or elsewhere in the world. Warm regards, Rika

Dear Antje, Thank you very much for your kind and thoughtful review! It was a great pleasure to spend the day with you in Kobe. I’m so happy to hear that you enjoyed not only the famous spots but also learning about Japanese culture. I’m especially glad that you found the tea ceremony memorable. It’s a beautiful and delicate tradition, and I’m glad you could experience it in person. Seeing how close and kind you and your husband are made me think again about how special family trips are. After our tour, I actually went on a short trip with my own husband and son. Thanks to you, I was reminded how important it is to spend time with family. I’m also happy that you enjoyed the Kobe beef lunch. It sounds like it was a great way to finish the day and a wonderful memory from your trip. If you ever come back to Japan, I would love to see you again. Thank you once again! Warm regards, Rika