I just spent two weeks in Japan, traveling from Tokyo down to Kyushu, and it honestly felt different from any of the 40+ countries I’ve been to. Usually I get deja vu in new places, but Japan had its own identity that made everything feel fresh. Even just walking through a city was interesting because I kept finding shops and little things I don’t see at home.
The biggest surprise was how much more time you need there compared to other trips. My usual travel rhythm didn’t work, I kept getting sidetracked by capsule machines, quirky snack shops, and random stores that pulled me in. It reminded me of when travel used to mean bringing back things you couldn’t find anywhere else.
A few practical lessons: cash is essential, even for small entry fees. The humidity hit me hard, especially in Kyoto, where I saw locals carrying towels everywhere. We also walked a ton, one day was 11 miles, so good shoes with support are key. And if you want to see Mt. Fuji from the plane, make sure to book the right window seat in advance.
The highlight for me was catching an NPB baseball game. The atmosphere was electric, closer to European football than MLB. Between that, the temples, and just exploring the streets, Japan gave me more than I expected. Definitely a place I’d go back to, because one trip barely scratches the surface.
0