Alex Debs

Founder & Travel Designer

Founder of Hitotoki, luxury Japan travel specialist with over 15 years of expertise crafting bespoke journeys across Japan.

Japan Travel Agency License No. 3-470
7 consecutive World Travel Awards nominations (2019–2025)
Founding Member, Hospitality Industry Club of Japan (HICJ)
Official JNTO representative at ILTM Cannes 2025
French Business Awards nominee (2021, 2025)
1,000+ bespoke journeys designed since 2016

Featured in: Channel News Asia TTG Asia Singapore Now and Zen Podcast French Business Awards

Articles by Alex Debs

Red torii gate of Hakone Shrine standing in Lake Ashi at dusk — iconic view in a luxury Japan itinerary

April 8, 2026

Luxury Japan Itinerary for First-Time Visitors (2026 Guide)

The best 10-day to 2-week luxury Japan itinerary for first-time visitors — Tokyo, Hakone, and Kyoto with expert tips on routes, ryokans, costs, and seasons.

Couple walking through a traditional Japanese garden with a red bridge and stone lantern

March 31, 2026

Honeymoon in Japan: The Ultimate Romantic Itinerary (2026 Guide)

Plan the perfect honeymoon in Japan — 10–14 day luxury itinerary through Tokyo, Hakone & Kyoto with private ryokan stays, onsen retreats & expert tips from Japan-based travel designers.

Traditional Japanese garden with stone lantern and pine tree over a pond — planning the perfect luxury trip to Japan

March 26, 2026

When Should I Book a Luxury Trip to Japan?

How far in advance should you book a luxury trip to Japan? From ryokan availability to cherry blossom season, our Japan-based experts explain the ideal booking window for each season.

Neon-lit street in Tokyo at night with crowds of people — a vivid reminder of why careful planning matters for a luxury trip to Japan

March 19, 2026

Mistakes to Avoid When Planning a Luxury Trip to Japan (2026 Guide)

Planning a luxury trip to Japan? Avoid these 10 common mistakes — from choosing the wrong ryokan to underestimating travel time. Expert advice from Japan-based travel designers.

Traditional Japanese geta wooden sandals — a symbol of Japan cultural refinement and luxury travel

March 9, 2026

How Much Does a Luxury Trip to Japan Cost?

A practical guide from Japan-based luxury travel experts at Hitotoki. A luxury trip to Japan typically costs between USD 1,000 and USD 2,500 per person per day, excluding international flights.

Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion surrounded by pine trees and reflected in a pond in Kyoto, Japan

March 6, 2026

Best Places to Visit in Japan: 6 Destinations You Can't Miss (2026)

Discover the best places to visit in Japan — from Tokyo's electric energy to Kyoto's ancient temples, Hakone's hot springs, Osaka's street food, Hiroshima's history, and Kanazawa's hidden charm.

Outdoor onsen rotenburo at a luxury ryokan in Japan with autumn foliage

March 1, 2026

The Ryokan Experience in Japan: What Luxury Travelers Need to Know Before Booking

A ryokan is not simply a hotel in traditional clothing. Discover what separates a truly exceptional ryokan stay from a disappointing one — from private onsen and kaiseki cuisine to the regions and criteria that matter most for a luxury Japan trip.

Traditional Japanese ryokan room with tatami mats, lacquered tea table and mountain view — luxury travel in Japan

February 22, 2026

Japan Etiquette Guide: Essential Tips for Luxury First-Time Visitors

Planning your first luxury trip to Japan? Discover 15 insider tips on etiquette, travel logistics, and exclusive experiences from Japan travel experts — from tipping culture and onsen rules to booking Michelin-starred restaurants and private temple access.

Chureito Pagoda with snow-capped Mount Fuji in winter — Japan's most iconic view

February 13, 2026

Best Time to Visit Japan: A Complete Month-by-Month Guide (2026)

When is the best time to visit Japan? Our Japan-based travel experts break down every month — cherry blossoms, autumn foliage, ryokan stays & exclusive experiences. Plan your 2026 trip.