Japan, August 2025

Japan had been on my bucket list for years, and when we finally made it, we had just 12 days to soak it all in. While it wasn’t nearly enough to see everything, we made the most of our time  spending the majority of it in the vibrant, sprawling capital: Tokyo.

Staying in the hearth of Shinjuku

We based ourselves in Shinjuku, and it was the perfect choice. From our stay, we were just steps away from amazing restaurants serving everything from steaming bowls of ramen to delicate sushi, and of course, the famous Shinjuku Station made exploring the city effortless. The neighbourhood buzzed day and night, with neon lights and fashion.

Exploring Tokyo's Districts 

Each district of Tokyo felt like its own city, and we tried to see as much as possible.

• In Shinjuku, we wandered through bustling streets filled with skyscrapers, karaoke bars, and endless food stalls. The energy was electric.

• I must say the Shibuya crossing was a little disappointing. It really was lot smaller than I had imagined it, I guess its my fault for believing everything on the internet
   
• Visiting the Imperial Palace offered a complete contrast — serene gardens, moats, and a glimpse into Japan’s history and tradition right in the heart of the modern city.
   
• And then, my personal highlight: Jinbōchō, the book district. Street after street lined with second-hand bookstores, rare finds, and literary treasures — it was a dream come true. I could have spent days there, browsing shelves and soaking in the atmosphere.
   

If Tokyo stole our hearts, its food sealed the deal. Every meal felt like an experience — from perfectly crafted sushi and wagyu beef to fluffy pancakes and intricate desserts. Even the convenience store snacks blew us away. The precision, care, and creativity in Japanese cuisine was unlike anything we’d ever experienced. Truly, the food was exquisite.

Twelve days flew by in a blur of neon lights, gardens, late-night ramen, and stacks of books in Jinbōchō. While we barely scratched the surface of what Japan has to offer, Tokyo gave us a taste of its majesty, equal parts tradition and modernity.

It wasn’t just a trip; it was an inspiration. And we already know: we’ll be back.

1. Learn Hello and Thank you, Japanese people are very polite and friendly.
2. Bring a little bag to keep your rubbish in otherwise you'll be carrying it around for a while.
3. When in Jinbōchō don't take pictures outside the shops. I only saw the sign after taking one.  
4. Make sure to have cash/change with you, we needed it for getting on the public transport.