Tokyo
Japan has always been on our itinerary for this journey. We visited nearly 8 years ago and fell in love with the place.
However, we were eager to explore new destinations rather than revisit old ones, so we’re aiming to discover some lesser-known spots if possible.
It also happened to be the cherry blossom season, one of Japans most notable times of the year.
The weather had improved as we left Taiwan, but upon arriving in Tokyo, we were greeted with cold, rainy weather, reminiscent of our arrival in Taiwan.
Getting to our accommodation was a bit of a trek, since we arrived just before Easter, and staying in the city was too costly.
The next morning, we rose early to explore the city. Despite the chill, the sun was shining, making it a perfect day for wandering. We took a train ride, lasting over an hour, and headed straight to one of Tokyo’s many food courts for a picnic lunch.
These food courts hold some of our fondest memories of Tokyo, bustling with a variety of delectable foods. After making our selections, we headed to the park.
We also managed to grab some street food on the way, this was off the BBQ.
A leg from one of these little critters! (When in Japan)
We arrived a bit early for the full blossom display, but we noticed some early signs of blooming on most trees, with the occasional one already in full bloom.
We explored the city until early evening before making our way to the lively suburb of Shinjuku for dinner. The streets were lined with bars, restaurants, and the occasional ‘hostess’ lounge, which we decided to skip.
We did find a great little pub though, and a place for some more noodles!
Nikko
We decided to head North of Tokyo to the little mountain town of Nikko
Nestled beneath mountain ranges, this town is known for its hot springs, making it an ideal spot for relaxation. During our visit, the weather was perfect – comfortably cool with snow on the ground and clear blue skies. With two full days to explore, we took advantage of the dedicated bus service to visit all the must-see spots. The landscape, still in its winter slumber, offered a serene beauty with bare trees dotting the hillsides.
First day we headed up the mountains. It was really sunny and quite warm in town, so Richard put his shorts on (I always wear mine anyhow). The scenery was pretty spectacular
However, as we went up into the hill the snow got deeper and the temperature dropped, resulting in us getting some funny looks from people in all there specially bought survival gear.
Back to Tokyo
Back in Tokyo, we hoped the cherry blossoms had started blooming. Despite the rain forecast, we arrived to sunny weather. Our new place was close to a big temple and lots of places to eat.
We took a walk and ended up in a restaurant where you cook your own food. We had octopus, pork, and noodles. For desert cheesecake that was burnt with a blowtorch!!!?
The next day was sunny again, perfect for walking in parks and seeing cherry blossoms. Lots of people had the same idea. The mix of nature and cherry blossoms was beautiful.
We grabbed sushi and wagyu beef sandwiches for another picnic later.
Hakone region
Our trip to Hakone didn’t go as planned. We realized we were sacrificing sightseeing opportunities due to accommodation costs, so we decided to splurge £100 a night for our stay.
Upon arrival, the quaint little town nestled in a valley seemed promising as a potential viewing spot for Mt. Fuji.
However, despite the heafty cost our accommodation resembled a budget version of ‘The Shining,’ sporting outdated 70s décor, and it felt eerily empty. Our room, located in the basement, lacked a real window and a bathroom, adorned instead with an oversized plastic chandelier. Despite our disappointment, we ventured into town, taking the local train which took visitors up from the main town to the various little outposts dotted amongst the forests.
The weather was cold and wet, so returning to the hotel, we eagerly anticipated a relaxing soak in the hotel’s onsen. Sadly, the onsen remained cold despite attempts to heat it, and to our dismay, I even found a dead lizard in the water. It was far from a pleasant experience.
Undeterred, the next day we set out to complete the circular route, which promised a view of Mt. Fuji from a cable car. Despite the worsening weather with heavy rain and clouds, we persisted, having already arranged a refund with the hotel manager for the following day.
Our journey comprised three legs: a cable train, a cable car, and a boat. However, the inclement weather persisted, making the experience cold and disappointing, as we were unable to catch a glimpse of Fuji.
That evening, disheartened by the turn of events, we decided to cut our Japan trip and make a brief stop in Korea before heading south to Thailand in search of sun and beaches!
Kyoto
We discovered a ferry to Busan in South Korea departing from Osaka, offering a more enjoyable and budget-friendly alternative to flying. So, we embarked on our journey southward. Passing through Kyoto, a city we had visited previously, but given its status as one of Japan’s premier tourist destinations, it felt obligatory to spend a couple of days there.
As we left the rain behind in Hakone and arrived in Kyoto, the sun emerged, seemingly affirming our decision to pause here. Hastily depositing our bags at the hotel, we set off for a leisurely stroll.
As the sun started to set we headed for the river that runs through the city and joined lots of families and friends having picnics.
Whilst we were sitting I noticed something swimming across the river and thought it was a beaver. However, later Richard looked it up and it was actually a coypu
As night fell, we headed to the historic area of Gion. This district is lined with streets of traditional-style houses, boutiques, and places to eat and drink.
Of course, there was a lane full of cherry blossoms, which I think was the prettiest so far.
Our stay in Kyoto was prolonged a day due to my needing to attend the hospital for a shoulder injection. I think carrying all the stuff we’ve picked up along the way is too much for this old English man!
However, before heading to Osaka, we did then have the time to see an exhibition.
https://takashimurakami-kyoto.exhibit.jp/en/
I really love this crazy manga ish art, and it’s one of the very unusual times that myself and Richard like the same thing!
We should be heading to Korea now but the great thing about this trip has been the ability to change our minds at the last moment. The weather just isn’t improving this far North yet so we are heading straight to Thailand. So our time in Japan ends (for now), just as the blossom season does.
Bearded Nomads ride again 