We booked our bucket list Japan trip at the beginning of November and now it’s going to come around fast. Just 8 weeks away.
We’ve decided that once a year while we’re still young and healthy {60+ is definitely still young} that we’ll aim to do one big trip a year alongside a few smaller ones closer to home. Somebody told me, or I might’ve read somewhere or even dreamt like I do, that your big faraway adventures are best done in your 60s and 70s. The short hops across Europe? They can wait until we’re no longer up to long haul.
We’ve arranged bullet train passes, so we’ll be zipping between cities like locals or at least pretending we are ha! ha!, and a day trip to Miyajima Island is already pencilled in. Floating Torii Gate photos here we come.
Here’s what the rest of the itinerary looks like so far…
4 nights in Tokyo
Bright lights, endless streets and tiny bars around every corner. Our hotel overlooks that famous Shibuya crossing, so we’ll watch the organised chaos from above while planning our mooching.
1 night in Kanazawa
Manicured gardens and geisha districts that make t look frozen in time. One night might not be enough, but we’ve managed to squeeze it in.
2 nights in Kyoto
Bamboo groves that sway like they’re whispering secrets. Our eldest bought us an experience visiting the Bamboo Forest of Arashiyama for Christmas. What a thoughtful gift.
2 nights in Hiroshima
We’ll visit the Peace Park and memorials, and then dive into okonomiyaki – fritter like pancakes that locals swear by. Miyajima Island will give us a little escape and the perfect photo moment.
2 nights in Osaka
We’ve been told that Osaka is famous for its street food and party vibes. Perfect!
The thought of packing hasn’t started yet. Weather wise we’re expecting it to be very similar temperatures to home in the UK. We always wanted to see the cherry blossom and why we picked March but due to climate change affecting the blooms sadly this won’t be guaranteed. But what a bonus if it is?
The excitement is swirling around creating a Japanese themed playlist, planning more in city experiences and thinking about what I might bring back.
If you’re reading this and you’ve been any tips will be appreciated.
Tickets? ✅
Countdown? ✅
Japan … we’re coming for you.
🇯🇵✈️
Lots of love.
