Report on a Family Trip to Japan in 2023

Japan has always fascinated me. Whether it’s the top-quality brands like Sony, Panasonic, Toyota, and Honda or the captivating world of pop culture with beloved shows like “Naruto,” Japan’s influence reaches far and wide. This summer of 2023, I fulfilled my dream with a 12-day family trip to Japan. It was memorable, especially for my 71-year-old dad, who had heard about these iconic Japanese companies and the history of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Tokyo Tower held a special place in my mom’s heart, thanks to a Bollywood movie and its hit song ‘Love in Tokyo.’ So, with my mom and dad, my wife, our two kids, my older sister who graciously joined us from Kathmandu, and three generations in tow, we embarked on this historic journey that will forever be etched in our family’s tales.

I’m excited to provide you with a quick overview of our recent family trip while the memories are still fresh. In the forthcoming article, I’ll do a brief review of the Hyatt Regency Tokyo Bay Hotel, which promises to be an invaluable resource for fellow travelers, especially those planning group and family trips to Tokyo. However, this report is more of a short trip summary, offering insights into all the cities we visited and our key experiences.

Here’s a glimpse of our complete itinerary

• June 20-21: Tochigi
• June 22: Kyoto
• June 23: Osaka
• June 24: Fukuoka
• June 25: Nagasaki
• June 26: Hiroshima
• June 27 to July 1: Tokyo Bay
• July 2: Haneda Airport (HND) for our return journey

Tochigi

Our adventure kicked off with a warm welcome from our cousin Kripan and his friend Om, who graciously picked us up at Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND), located about 60 miles away from Tochigi. This beautiful region, rich in culture and history, is also blessed with breathtaking natural beauty. One of the highlights of our Tochigi experience was a visit to Nikko National Park, approximately 80 miles north of HND, renowned for its lush forests, enchanting waterfalls, and awe-inspiring temples. It was the perfect start to our Japanese adventure.

Kyoto

After our memorable stay in Tochigi, we were eager to explore more of Japan, and what better way to do it than with the convenience of a 7-day JR Pass for just $220? It appears that the price has increased significantly since our last trip. The current cost for a 7-day pass in the regular class is now $336.00. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the JRPASS website for more details. We hopped on the iconic bullet train, and set our sights on Kyoto, our next destination. This ancient city is a cultural treasure trove, and we wasted no time in visiting renowned landmarks like the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), a shimmering golden temple that glistened in the sunlight. We couldn’t resist the beautiful Arashiyama Bamboo Grove; it looked like it came from a fairy tale.

Osaka / Kobe

Our next destination was the lively city of Osaka, famous for its bustling streets and vibrant atmosphere. We headed to Dotonbori, a district known for its bright neon lights and lively vibes. The delicious smell of street food filled the air, making our mouths water. While the aroma was tempting, most of us were a bit hesitant to try it, except for my cousin Kripan. It’s no wonder Kripan had a deep appreciation for Japan’s culture and cuisine; after all, he had been living there for decades.

The next day, we visited Kobe and experienced the impressive Akashi Kaikyō Bridge, the world’s longest suspension bridge. It is just a 30-40 minute drive west of central Osaka, making it a convenient day trip. We recommend the drive for flexibility and scenic views. We had fun on a Ferris wheel that provided fantastic views of Kyoto. We rented a van for 15,000 yen in Osaka. We had to return the rental van before 7 pm to avoid additional charges. However, when we rented a van from Fukuoka for two full nights, it was a much better deal at a grand total of 10,000 yen. It seems like prices can fluctuate, so it’s a good idea to check with multiple rental agencies if you plan to rent a vehicle in Japan. One more thing to keep in mind if you’re driving in Japan: be ready for tolls. They’re pretty much everywhere and can be a bit pricey in my experience. So, budget accordingly!

Fukuoka

Our journey then took us to Fukuoka, famous for its lively nightlife and delicious street food. We noticed a long line outside a ramen shop, and my cousin explained that Fukuoka is renowned for its Hakata ramen. If you’re a ramen fan, this is the place to try it! In the evening, we went to Fukuoka Tower and enjoyed the city’s lights from above.

Nagasaki

As our adventure continued, we decided to rent a van for our journey to Nagasaki. This city holds a poignant history, and as we arrived, we were in for a surprising and delightful discovery. Who would have thought that in Nagasaki, we would stumble upon a multitude of Indian and Nepali-style authentic restaurants? It was a pleasant shock, and we couldn’t resist the allure of these eateries. Our cousin, well-versed in the local scene, guided us to Ganesh Indian Nepali restaurant, which turned out to be an excellent choice. A big shout-out to them for their warm service and for taking great care of us.

However, Our visit to Nagasaki wasn’t just about culinary surprises. This city had witnessed tragic events in the past. The Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Museum revealed a somber history, reminding us of the harrowing consequences of war. It was a powerful reminder of the need for peace and the strength of the human spirit. Additionally, we couldn’t miss the opportunity to witness the breathtaking panoramic view from Mt. Inasa, famously known as the “10 million dollar view”. Although, to our dismay, the day we visited Mt. Inasa was a bit cloudy, which slightly hindered visibility, it was still a remarkable experience to behold the city lights and harbor from that vantage point.

Hiroshima

Our adventure was drawing to a close, there was one more stop on our journey before we returned to Tokyo – Hiroshima. This city, with its profound Peace Memorial Park and Museum, left an indelible mark on all of us. It served as a powerful reminder of the devastation caused by war and the pressing need for global unity.

While exploring Hiroshima, my dad and I found ourselves engaged in a conversation about the remarkable recovery of both Hiroshima and Nagasaki. It was incredible to see how, after the horrendous events that occurred around 78 years ago, these cities had been rebuilt into bustling metropolises. The sight of tall buildings, the normalcy of everyday life, the courtesy and discipline of the people – it was truly a testament to the resilience of Japan and its culture, which we deeply admire.

In Hiroshima, we also embarked on the Miyajima Island tour, which turned out to be a grand experience, adding to the memories we cherished throughout our Japanese journey.

After seven days of non-stop exploration, we were ready for some well-deserved relaxation, and the Hyatt Regency Tokyo Bay provided the perfect setting. In my next article, I’ll provide a comprehensive review of the Hyatt Regency Tokyo Bay, so stay tuned for that.

At this point, everyone was starting to feel a bit tired. My younger son had already begun to sneeze and cough, and the local cough medicine we tried wasn’t providing much relief. On the other hand, my older one, at 5 years old, was doing great and seemed to be enjoying the adventure. It was a much-needed rest for all of us, a chance to recharge and recover, and to get ready for the next part of our journey.

Our focus for the day was on checking into the hotel and taking a short break, as we had an exciting plan for the following day – a trip to Mount Fuji. Thanks to Kripan and Om, who drove all the way back from Tochigi in their corporate van and then took us for a sightseeing trip to Mount Fuji.

Mt. Fuji

When it comes to experiencing the breathtaking view of Mount Fuji, one of the most popular places is the Chureito Pagoda. It’s located about 62 miles (100 kilometers) from Tokyo, making it a great day trip destination. Expect to take a hike up to the pagoda, where you can capture stunning photographs of Mount Fuji framed by the iconic red pagoda. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone traveling to Japan and wanting to witness the beauty of Mount Fuji up close.

For those interested in hiking Mount Fuji, the official climbing season is from early July to mid-September. It’s highly recommended to visit during this period when the weather is more favorable. There are several trails to choose from, but the Yoshida Trail is one of the most popular and accessible. If you plan to hike, be prepared with the right gear and clothing, and always check the weather conditions before starting your ascent.

The following days turned out to be busier and more hectic than I had initially anticipated. Traveling with a large group and kids can be time-consuming, and our hotel’s location, about 45 minutes away from downtown Tokyo, posed some challenges. To reach the city center, we needed to take a free shuttle bus (scheduled hourly by the hotel) to the nearest station, Urayasu. From there, another train ride was required to reach the downtown area. It was a bit of a hassle, but we managed it, and to our surprise, the kids behaved remarkably well.

What stood out during these train rides was the silence. It was almost eerily quiet, with passengers maintaining a pin-drop silence. This was quite a contrast to our usual experiences influenced by American culture, where chatting and phone conversations are commonplace on public transport. We were pleasantly surprised by our kids’ well-mannered and considerate behavior during these silent train journeys. It was an interesting and gratifying experience.

Tokyo

Our exploration of Tokyo was a whirlwind of excitement and wonder. We visited several iconic places, each offering a unique glimpse into the city’s diverse culture and history.

Tokyo Skytree was a spectacular starting point, offering panoramic views of the sprawling city. It was even more special due to the ongoing Disney 100 theme, which added a touch of magic to our visit. We captured numerous photos and made unforgettable memories.

Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa was a step back in time. As Tokyo’s oldest temple, it exuded a sense of history and spirituality. Nakamise, the market street leading to the temple, offered traditional snacks and souvenirs.

Ueno Park provided a refreshing contrast, with its open spaces, and museums. It was an excellent place for leisurely strolls and cultural exploration.

Akihabara was a tech and anime enthusiast’s paradise. The district buzzed with electronic shops, anime stores, and a vibrant video game culture.

And then there was Shibuya Crossing, a mesmerizing intersection known for its organized chaos. We navigated through the bustling crowds, creating lasting memories of Tokyo’s vibrant urban life.

Reflections on Japan: A Land of Discipline and Discovery

As our journey neared its end, I felt surprisingly relieved. Travel can be tiring, especially when you’re the one organizing everything. I couldn’t have done it without the help of Kripan and Om, who made our trip truly memorable.

Japan left a profound impression on me. The people’s discipline, politeness, and efficient systems are truly remarkable. Despite language barriers, I didn’t encounter a single instance of bad customer service. It’s no wonder Japan is a highly sought-after destination, and I wholeheartedly recommend you visit. It’s worth it!

Our adventure in Japan was full of unforgettable moments. Travel has a way of teaching and leaving you with lasting memories. I hope our story gave you a glimpse of this incredible country and the power of exploration. It enriched our lives, and I’m sure it will do the same for you.

_{Disclaimer: This article is neither sponsored nor paid, and I am not affiliated with any of the mentioned programs at the time of writing.}