Friday, 3rd January 2025
It’s hard to believe it’s already my final weekend in Japan. Where has the time gone? After weeks of incredible memories, we are back in Tokyo to wrap up this once-in-a-lifetime trip.
The morning started with packing up and boarding the bullet train back to Tokyo this time in first class. Let me tell you, first-class on the Shinkansen is an experience in itself. Spacious, comfortable, and smooth as ever, it’s hard to imagine travel being this effortless anywhere else. The world outside rushed by in a blur as we reclined in style, taking in every moment of this journey.
Once we arrived, we headed straight to our hotel to drop off the bags before diving headfirst into the chaos and energy of Tokyo. The streets were alive with color and movement, and we embraced the madness as we wandered from shop to shop. A highlight of the day? Standing in the middle of the famous Shibuya Crossing, surrounded by a sea of people moving like waves in every direction. It’s a sensory overload but in the best way possible, a moment that makes you feel alive.
Ready for our final trip on the Shinkansen to Tokyo
The evening brought us to Golden Gai, a maze of narrow alleys and tiny bars, each seating no more than 6-10 people. Smoky, cramped, and full of character, the bars of Golden Gai are like stepping into another time. Yasmin grew tired early, so I walked her back to the hotel before heading back out to rejoin Fred and Kelsey for a few more drinks. It was one of those perfect nights where time seems to stand still.
Loved these little bars at GoldenGai, fair play to Fred and Kelsey for this one!
Saturday, 4th January 2025
Day two in Tokyo, and I’m already dreading the thought of leaving. I tried napping earlier, but the combination of black coffee and anxiety about my final full day here meant sleep was out of the question. I feel like there is still so much to see and do, and I’m not ready to leave this incredible place just yet.
We met up with Fred and Kelsey in the morning and grabbed a quick meal at a ramen place. Tokyos eateries are quirky and full of charm, each one offering something new. Afterward, Yasmin needed a burger, so we made a quick detour to keep everyone fueled for the day ahead.
Fred and I found our way to an arcade, and my loosing streak at these things went on, We wasted a fair bit of money, but it was worth it for the sheer fun. Later that night, we were back in Golden Gai, exploring even more of the cozy bars. The atmosphere here is unmatched, the kind of place where you can feel the history seep into the walls.
It’s not every day you look up and see Godzilla staring down at you!
Sunday, 5th January 2025
And here I am my final day in Japan. Writing this from our airport hotel with a heavy heart.
Yesterday was our last proper day in Tokyo, and we made it count. We started with coffee at Starbucks (always reliable) before heading to the Tokyo Skytree, the tallest observation tower in the world. Standing at 450 meters high, the thought of going up there made my palms sweat and my stomach turn, but I pushed through the fear.
The Skytree from the ground, and Coffee with the finest view of Tokyo!
The views from the top were nothing short of breathtaking. Tokyo stretched out in every direction, a seemingly endless cityscape of skyscrapers and lights. For a moment, I felt like a god looking down on an intricate Lego city. We were even lucky enough to see Mount Fuji in the distance, its snow-capped peak perfectly framing the view. Conquering my vertigo felt like a fitting way to end the trip, a small personal victory in a land of unforgettable experiences.
The evening was pure fun. We dined at Ce La Vie, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views over the city. The food was incredible, and the drinks flowed as we toasted to the end of an unforgettable adventure. Afterward, we headed to one of Tokyos many arcades, where I had my first-ever win on a claw machine and finally ended my lifelong loosing streak. To my utter disbelief, I managed to snag not one but two toys, a Kirby plush and a keyring and the joy of that moment will stay with me forever.
We capped off the night with one last trip to Shibuya Crossing, this time posing with our prizes for an iconic photo. As I stood there, surrounded by the dazzling lights and energy of the city, I felt overwhelmed with gratitude for this trip and everything it’s given me.
Reflections on Japan
This trip has been everything I hoped for and so much more. Japan feels like another world compared to home, like I’ve stepped out of reality and into a storybook. From the quiet shrines and bustling cities to the food, the people, and the moments of pure magic, it’s hard to put into words just how extraordinary this journey has been.
As I prepare to leave, I can’t help but feel like a character in a Japanese anime, crossing realms but now returning home. Life won’t feel the same, but maybe that’s a good thing. I am taking a piece of this place with me, and I know it will stay with me forever.
Thank you, Japan. For everything.
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