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For our flight to Japan, I decided to splurge on WestJet Business Class. What I got was far more than a bigger seat. Between the private lie-flat pod, premium dining, Herschel amenity kit, and the best sleep I’ve ever had on a plane, it completely changed the way I think about long-haul travel. Unfortunately, I may have ruined economy class forever.
For our final day in Japan, we tackled both Tokyo DisneySea and Disneyland in a single whirlwind adventure. While DisneySea impressed with its stunning scenery and one-of-a-kind attractions, it was Disneyland that won my heart, bringing back memories of visiting as a student decades ago. One thing’s for certain: if you’re attempting both parks in one day, have a strategy… and buy the skip-the-line passes. Your feet will thank you later.
After saying goodbye to the mountains of Hakone, we returned to Tokyo for the final chapter of our three-week Japan adventure. A reunion with my host sister at Tokyo Station, the return of our long-lost suitcase, and a relaxing evening at the Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay Hotel set the stage for one last epic day: Tokyo DisneySea and Disneyland.
High above the cities of Japan, the mountain town of Gora captured my heart with lush forests, winding roads, volcanic landscapes, and breathtaking views. From riding the cable car and soaring above steaming volcano vents on the Hakone Ropeway to discovering a bottle of Mt. Fuji whisky at the summit, this quaint mountain retreat became one of my favorite stops in Japan.
A Shinkansen ride from Nagoya, a winding mountain road into Hakone, and two unforgettable nights at Hakone Gora KARAKU. From our private open-air bath and deck sauna to one of the most incredible Japanese breakfasts I’ve ever experienced, this wasn’t just the best hotel of our Japan trip. It may have been the best hotel I’ve ever stayed in.
I expected Studio Ghibli Park to be a traditional theme park. Instead, I discovered a sprawling public park where forests, gardens, and movie-inspired attractions blend together into something completely unique. After more than 10 kilometres of walking, a crowded Warehouse experience, and a full day of exploring, I finally understood why Ghibli fans travel from around the world to visit.
While Nagoya was originally just a stop on our way to Studio Ghibli Park, it became one of the most relaxing parts of our Japan adventure. Between Nagoya Castle, a disappointing market that had the misfortune of following Kyoto’s Nishiki Market, an unforgettable stay at the Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel, and a leisurely day exploring the endless world beneath Nagoya Station, we discovered the joy of slowing down.
A quick day trip from Kyoto led to one of my favourite experiences in Japan. Between the famous bowing deer, ancient temples, peaceful walking trails, and one particularly determined snack-loving herd, Nara proved that sometimes the best travel memories come with four legs and a healthy appetite.
Three days in Kyoto delivered far more than temples and tourist attractions. From hidden bamboo forests and historic castles to riverside walks, local breweries, endless gyoza, and the best furikake I’ve ever tasted, Kyoto proved that the most memorable experiences are often the ones you never planned for.
During my three weeks in Japan, I discovered a travel hack so convenient it felt like magic: luggage forwarding. Instead of wrestling suitcases through crowded train stations and onto Shinkansen cars, I simply sent my bags ahead and traveled hands-free. Twice. And both times, my luggage seemed to arrive before I did.