Esther Tokihiro

Tell us a little about yourself.

Aloha! I’m a local girl, who attended Kalani High School and the University of Hawaii at Manoa, majoring in secondary education and educational administration. Married to James for 35 years and we have one son — who shares the same bday as me! (It’s so much fun!) We lived in San Jose, CA for 20 years and returned home to Hawaii just before COVID.

What did you do for work before becoming a Tour Manager?

Retired as a 40-year educator in Hawaii and California with roles in teaching, program coordination and administration. I specialized in curriculum and program development, along with professional training.

What are your hobbies? What do you like to do in your free time?

In addition to traveling and researching about travel, I’m quite curious and like experimenting with cooking, interested in gemology and jewelry, and doing all of the things that I’ve waited my life to do. LOVE Shopping! Love Afternoon Teas! Love kawaii things like pink, Hello Kitty and Miffy! Although I love reading, these days I get sucked into YouTube and Netflix. I’m also a Wheel of Fortune fan and try to watch as much as I can — it would be fun to be a contestant on the show!

Where is your favorite place to travel? What is your favorite thing to do there?

Japan is one of my favorite destinations and I have a deep appreciation for all of the historical, cultural and culinary influences — enjoying the story and symbolism behind kaiseki meals, the seasons and nature, cherishing artisan made goods, relaxing in a beautiful onsen town and of course, bringing home some meaningful souvenirs! Museums and their gift shops are also a favorite place to go. I also love big cities: Tokyo, LA, NY, Paris, London, etc. as well as the quiet charming intimate towns! What can I say, the world is waiting for more discovery!

What do you like most about being a Tour Manager?

Sharing the joy of travel with others and helping our tour members access building lifelong memories from special visits. With each itinerary, I’m excited to share together new discoveries, yummy foods, great shopping finds and travel experiences. Through our journeys, bonding with new friendships and fun along the adventure, I’ll do my best for you!

Is there anything else you’d like our tour members to know about you?

I believe in the power of travel and the transformative influence it has every time you adventure forward. I’ve had the opportunity to participate in home stay programs while in high school and college to Germany and Japan, and those experiences influenced the groundwork for my love of travel, discovery, learning about others/culture/history and appreciation for our world.