Tokyo, a city where the past and future blend seamlessly, left us spellbound. We navigated the bustling streets and precision-timed subway system. Learning the intricate subway system first felt like deciphering a complex puzzle, in another language. Each station led to new discoveries—hidden temples, bustling markets, and serene parks (gardens) amidst the urban sprawl. We were so proud of ourselves once we figured it out.
Akihabara, also known as ‘Electric Town”, was one of our favorite areas. It’s the pulsating heart of anime and electronics and offers endless rows of gadget shops, themed cafés, and niche souvenirs.
Tokyo’s dynamic energy and infinite possibilities turned wandering the city into an exhilarating adventure.
Kyoto, the epitome of Japanese elegance and tradition, was another highlight of our journey. The city’s tranquil temples and lush gardens gave us a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Our visit to the Fushimi Inari Shrine was unforgettable. We wandered through seemingly endless vibrant red torii gates, feeling as though we had stepped into another realm as we climbed up nearly 40 flights of steps. If you make it to the top of the Inari Shrine, you’ll find a post office where you can send postcards to loved ones back home. There’s no view from the top though so you’ll only know you reach it when the stairs going up, start to go down. There is a viewing platform 1/3 of the way up, which offers fabulous views of the city, as well as a place to rest your feet.
The traditional tea ceremony we attended was a moment of pure zen, with a few awkward giggles thrown in. We watched a tea master gracefully prepare the matcha tea. Its rich, earthy flavor was surprising compared to the commercialized use of match in the US. Then our tranquil moment was shattered by laughs as I struggled to prepare a glass for my ‘new husband’. I failed, it was gritty, and my movements were far from graceful, but the memory of my husband downing that cup of matcha tea still brings a smile to my face.
Kyoto’s timeless beauty and peaceful atmosphere made it a sanctuary for our souls.
When we decided to go to Japan for our honeymoon, we agreed that we wanted to experience the traditional Japanese lifestyle. We couldn’t just go to Japan and only stay in a Western-style hotel.
While in Kyoto, we stayed in a ryokan, a traditional inn, where we slept on futons laid out on tatami mats. (Remember to remove your shoes.) The simplicity and comfort of this setup provided a surprisingly restful night’s rest despite the mattress only being 2 inches thick.
We did our best to embrace Japanese etiquette. We struggled a few times with tipping (don’t tip in Japan) and staying quiet on the train (excitement got the better of us).
Japan is rich in cultural heritage and steeped in centuries-old traditions, which deepened our appreciation for it.
Japan’s natural beauty captivated us at every turn, especially in its meticulously crafted parks (gardens). Walking through these gardens felt like stepping back in time. Serene ponds reflected the delicate flower blossoms while winding paths led us to secluded bamboo forests and tranquil koi ponds.
The chrysanthemum displays we encountered were a riot of color and form, each of the thousands of blooms had been meticulously cultivated and arranged. The sheer diversity and intricate beauty of these flowers left us in awe. These gardens were not just places of beauty but sanctuaries. We did a lot of people-watching in the parks. Many elementary schools were having field trips, and the excitement on the little kids’ faces was contagious.
Riding the Shinkansen, Japan’s bullet train, was a thrilling and futuristic experience. As we sped across the countryside at incredible speeds, in a train painted with Hello Kitty and her Friends, we marveled at the smoothness of the rails and the efficiency of the men and women who serviced the train at each of the stops. The large windows offered stunning views of the landscape between Toyko and Kyoto from the towering Mount Fuji to the verdant fields surrounding small villages. Traveling between the cities was short, but it offered a glimpse into the heart of Japan.
