Exciting times ahead! My brother, sister, and a few close friends are flying into Japan tomorrow , and I’ve been busy putting together a packed itinerary for their one-week adventure. It's a tight schedule, but I want them to experience as much of Japan as possible during their stay — and hey, it gives me the perfect excuse to revisit some of my favorite places too. ✈️ Day 1 – Arrival & Yokohama They’ll be landing tomorrow, and while I know they’ll be jetlagged, we’re not wasting any time! Once they’ve dropped their bags off at my place, we’ll head straight out to Yokohama — it's just too good to skip. We’ll explore Chūkagai , Japan’s largest Chinatown , and grab some food while taking in the vibrant lantern-lit streets. Afterward, we’ll head up to Motomachi and wander past the area where many of the old foreign embassies once stood. It’s a charming spot, full of history and a nice mix of Western and Japanese influences. We’ll keep the evening relaxed so t...

  Living and working in the heart of Japan is a fascinating tapestry woven with threads of ancient charm, breathtaking beauty, and a culture that constantly surprises. But let's be entirely honest: amidst the serene temples and neon-lit nights, there are moments when this meticulously ordered world feels… well, a little suffocating. Especially when you're just trying to survive a summer commute without feeling like you've stepped into a human-sized pressure cooker. Right now, we're deep into tsuyu , Japan’s relentless rainy season. It’s a period defined by a humidity so thick it feels like liquid air, a constant, heavy embrace that never quite lifts. Yet, despite temperatures regularly soaring into the high 20s and low 30s (Celsius), the train companies often cling to a bewildering logic: "it’s not summer yet." And so, there I am, packed tighter than sushi rice into a train car, shoulder-to-shoulder with hundreds of other commuters, each suit-clad and glis...

  Akita Prefecture, nestled in the Tohoku region of northern Japan, often goes overlooked by first-time visitors, yet it offers a truly authentic and enriching experience. My family and I have had the privilege of exploring this captivating region multiple times, from the vibrant festivities of Golden Week to quiet trips with my wife and kids. Each visit unveils another layer of Akita's unique appeal, from its stunning natural landscapes and deep historical roots to its delicious cuisine and warm, welcoming people. If you're looking to step off the well-trodden tourist path and immerse yourself in a different side of Japan, Akita is a destination waiting to be discovered. --- Getting to Akita: A Scenic Approach to Northern Japan Akita may feel like a distant gem from bustling Tokyo, but reaching it is surprisingly straightforward and offers its own delightful journey. You primarily have two excellent options, each providing a distinct perspective on Japan's beautiful...

  Today we managed to get out and enjoy a peaceful drive around Akita , and the scenery was absolutely stunning. Rolling hills, quiet country roads, and that crisp northern air— it really reminded me why this part of Japan is so special . We also stopped by to visit my wife’s aunt and uncle , which was genuinely heartwarming. It’s always nice to connect with family, especially when you’re away from your usual day-to-day rhythm. I snapped some videos of Kai and Eita playing, laughing, and just soaking up the attention from everyone. The whole family was in great spirits, and I can’t wait to share those moments with you all soon—there’s something magical about seeing your kids happy and surrounded by love. Sometimes it does get tiring, though. Kai doesn’t really talk much, and it’s in those quiet moments that we noticed how different he is from Ted. I’d never say that’s a bad thing, but taking Kai on drives seems to help him rest—he really seems to like being in the car. Those d...

  I finally made it to Akita today—a few days behind my wife, but here at last! I couldn’t take time off earlier, so today officially marks the beginning of my Golden Week break. And believe me, I’m ready to make the most of it. The day started bright and early at 4 a.m. so I could catch a 7:45 flight . I was bracing for chaos at the airport, expecting it to be packed with Tokyoites heading out for the holidays. Surprisingly, it was much calmer than I imagined. I could have taken the Shinkansen, but with Akita being over five hours from Yokohama by train , flying was the smarter (and faster) choice. A Beautiful Arrival Flying into Akita was nothing short of stunning— snow still dusted the mountain tops! My first thought? “Here we go... Northern Japan. It's going to be freezing.” But to my surprise, the weather was actually really pleasant today. Crisp, but not cold. Reunited with Kai 💙 The best part of the day? Seeing my son Kai waiting for me at the airport. That chee...