About Kotori Japan Travel
Hirosaki Sakura Matsuri, Aomori
The Story Behind Our Name
Kotori (小鳥) means “little bird” in Japanese, inspired by the expression “a little bird told me.” It reflects the way some of Japan’s best discoveries begin: with a local’s recommendation toward a place you may never have found on your own. A beloved neighborhood, hole-in-the-wall ramen shop. A traditional festival you didn't know was happening. A secluded inn where centuries of hospitality still show.
That same spirit guides everything we do at Kotori Japan Travel. When we help you plan your trip, we're not just building a schedule. We're helping you experience Japan on your own terms. The days that unfold at exactly the right speed. The discoveries that feel like they were waiting for you. The moments you didn't know you were looking for.
That kind of trip doesn't happen by accident. It takes someone who knows Japan well and genuinely cares how your experience unfolds. Think of us as a well-traveled friend: someone who helps you sort through your options with care, walks you through every detail, and makes sure the trip feels like yours from beginning to end. So that when you finally land in Japan, you're not thinking about logistics. You're already looking forward to the stories you'll carry home and keep telling for years.
Meet the Founder
Kotori Japan Travel is the result of Mike Lara’s almost decade-long connection with Japan. During that time, he lived, worked, and traveled throughout the country, calling the quiet countryside of Aomori, the busy streets of Nagoya, and coastal Nagasaki home. Experiencing Japan from those very different perspectives continues to shape the way he helps travelers.
Mike has explored 32 of Japan’s 47 prefectures, but his experience goes beyond the major sights. One of his favorite ways to explore was by getting in the car and seeing where the road led, often stopping at michi no eki, Japan’s roadside stations. After visiting more than 400 of them, he came to appreciate the regional food, local products, and everyday details that make each part of Japan feel unique.
Today, that same spirit of exploration guides every itinerary Mike creates. Whether you’re visiting Japan for the first time or returning to see it in a different way, his goal is simple: to help you travel with confidence and discover a side of Japan that fits your interests, your pace, and your sense of adventure.
Ready to plan your
Japan adventure?
The Great Buddha of Kamakura, Kanagawa