If seeing Mt. Fuji is on your bucket list then you’ve certainly come across debates between Hakone vs. Kawaguchiko (Fuji Five Lakes) vs. Nikko. While I can’t speak to Nikko, I have been to both Hakone and Kawaguchiko and can share my experience and recommendations. By the end of this guide, I hope you’ll be …
Hakone Travel Guide – 10 Things to Do & See
Craving panoramic views of Mt. Fuji? Look no further than Hakone! This mesmerizing resort-town getaway, just a 1.5-hour train ride from Tokyo, is a haven for both day-trippers and those seeking a longer escape. My recent 3-day adventure in Hakone was packed with unforgettable experiences, and I’m excited to share them with you! Get ready …
The Best Zoo in Japan: Kobe Animal Kingdom
Kobe Animal Kingdom is a unique animal and flower park located in Kobe, Japan. An easy day trip by train from Kyoto (50 min) or Osaka (25 min). I have been to many zoos and aquariums while traveling around the world, including the famous Taranga Zoo in Syndey, Australia. But, there is something about the …
Calling all Matcha Lovers – Visit Uji: Japan’s Tea Paradise
There are so many amazing places to visit in Japan and so little time. If I listed every city I thought was worth visiting you might as well pack your bags and move to Japan. Instead, I’m going to share some under-rated cities, like Uji, in Japan that I think are worth considering for your …
APA Hotels – Japan’s Budget Chain Review
APA Hotels are an extremely popular budget hotel chain located throughout Japan. Frequented by travelers and businessmen, they are a no-frill option when convenience and price trumps comfort. I have personally stayed at APA Hotels in Tokyo and Hiroshima, I haven’t had bad experiences, but I still try to avoid them whenever possible. In this …
Shopping in Japan: My Favorite Stores
Shopping in Japan is so much fun! There are a lot of unique designs for clothing, interior design, and more! I definitely recommend setting a day or two aside in your trip to enjoy shopping. Loft The Loft is my absolute favorite places when it comes to shopping in Japan! I miss this store every …
Why you shouldn’t use AI to Plan your Trips
A lot of articles and Influencers are recommending using AI technology to help plan your trips. While I think it’s a great aid and reference to get started, in my experience, there are a lot of flaws in its itineraries. AI can only use the information it finds and learns online, that means it’s looking …
How to Ease Anxiety Before a Trip
Before I travel, no matter how many times I go, I get serious anxiety. Especially the night before and the morning of. Usually it eases as I wait for the plane, but it is at its peak when I wake up and on the way to the airport. Here are some things that have helped …
Best Things to do in Stockholm
In September of 2023 I decided on a whim to visit Stockholm. I was meeting my Aunts in Amalfi a week later and it was actually cheaper to fly to Stockholm and then Naples rather than a direct flight to Naples. So I did some quick research on the capital city of Sweden, but I …
What to Pack for a Long Haul Flight
Over the past decade I’ve spent countless hours in the air and finally found a convenient way to organize my luggage and its content. Whether you’re flying for 4 hours or 15+, these tips will help you have a more comfortable flight every time. –> Skip the details and go straight to my packing list. …