Exploring Japan one destination at a time
Vlad 
If it feels like everyone you know is either planning a trip to Japan or has just returned from one, you’re not imagining it. According to preliminary figures released by the Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO), a staggering 920,200 Australians visited Japan in 2024 – the highest number on record! This marks an impressive 50.1% increase compared to 2023, … Read more
Over the last few weeks I’ve been asked to design itineraries for retired family friends that are planning on visiting Japan, so I thought I would share it with everyone else that is in their shoes. Below you will find a suggested 2-week itinerary for seniors visiting Japan for the first time, covering key destinations … Read more
Dreaming of your first trip to Tokyo? Brace yourself for a city where cutting-edge meets ancient temples, and the surprises never end. But here’s the thing: even well-prepared travellers can slip up in Japan’s bustling capital. Tokyo’s got its quirks, and some rookie mistakes can quickly turn an amazing day into a pricey or confusing … Read more
Japan has witnessed a record-breaking influx of overseas tourists in the first half of 2023, with over 17.7 million visitors from January to June. The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) reported 17,777,200 foreign arrivals during this period, with June alone welcoming 3,135,600 visitors – the fourth consecutive month exceeding 3 million. This surge, partly fuelled … Read more
If you’re wondering, “is Japan worth visiting with kids?” the answer is a resounding YES! Japan is a fantastic destination for families looking for a unique travel experience. With its blend of old & unique traditions and modern marvels, the country offers something for every age group. Kids will love Japan’s colourful attractions, tasty food, natural … Read more
I’ve created two examples of a 10-day itinerary for your family trip to Tokyo, covering key attractions, while balancing city exploration with day trips to nearby areas, and including a mix of cultural experiences and fun activities for children. These 2 itineraries cover Tokyo & the surrounds only, as exploring Japan wide-and-far may not be … Read more
I’ve created a family-friendly 2-week itinerary for first-time visitors to Japan, focusing on activities and locations that are enjoyable and suitable for families with younger children (aged 3-15). The itinerary is created based on my young family’s own experience as well as that of others who have asked us for advice. The suggested itinerary is … Read more
Yokohama is a great city for food lovers, and okonomiyaki is one of its top treats. This savoury pancake, famous for its diverse ingredients, is a must-try when visiting the city. I’ve discovered some of the best places to enjoy this iconic dish, from small family-run joints to big restaurants, each offering its own twist. … Read more
Hey there, fellow travellers! Thinking about a trip to Tokyo? Well, as someone who’s been lucky enough to visit this amazing city countless times over the last 20 years – I’ve got some insider tips for you. Spoiler alert: July and August might not be your best bet. But don’t worry, I’ll spill all the … Read more
I’ll guide you through the best spots in Melbourne to buy Yen. Knowing where to go saves you both time and money, ensuring a smooth financial start to your Japanese holiday. Having yen on hand the moment you land in Japan is very helpful – as cash still rules in Japan! I’ve dealt with way too … Read more