Trip Overview
Japan in the fall is… well, iconic. I went with my parents—my dad’s first time in Asia and my mom’s first in Japan—and we took a route that hit both the big city lights and the quiet, golden temples. Tokyo buzzed, Kyoto glowed, Hakone steamed, and Kanazawa surprised us in all the right ways.
It was a trip full of contrasts: tranquil onsens and neon crossings, hidden gardens and vending machines everywhere, serene temples and pirate ships on mountain lakes. But what tied it all together was the season—the crisp air, changing leaves, and moments of stillness in the midst of it all.
Most Memorable Moments
Kanazawa’s Under-the-Radar Magic – This city quickly became a favorite. It was less touristy but packed with culture—tea houses, samurai districts, beautiful gardens. It gave us space to breathe and explore at our own rhythm.
Evenings at the Onsen – After long travel days, slipping into a quiet, steaming onsen felt like heaven. Those peaceful, meditative evenings became anchors of the trip.
The Tiny Fish Incident – Our traditional Japanese hotel breakfast in Kanazawa included a little bowl of teeny-tiny fish—eyes and all. A surprise, and still a family laugh we bring up.
Chasing Mt. Fuji in Hakone – While cruising Lake Ashi on a pirate ship, Mt. Fuji started peeking through the clouds. At the dock, we sprinted to find a taxi (nearly impossible—no Uber and only one dispatch number, all in Japanese). After wrangling a ride to a beautiful overlook, we were rewarded with a breathtaking Fuji view… and then had to figure out how to get back. With lots of pointing and a kind stranger’s help, we made it. Worth every ounce of chaos.
Kyoto’s Golden Light – Walking through temple grounds in our rented Kimonos surrounded by autumn leaves, especially late in the afternoon, felt like stepping into a dream. The colors, the history… it was everything I imagined Japan could be.
Logistics & Practical Information
Accommodation
- Tokyo: Shibuya Granbell Hotel
- Kanazawa: Soki Kanazawa – probably the most pleasant of the trip
- Kyoto: RAKURO 京都 by THE SHARE HOTELS
- Hakone: Hakone Kowakien Miyamafurin
Notable Food
- Uobei Shibuya Dogenzaka – conveyer belt sushi!
- Ippudo – Ginza for excellent ramen
- Danki Tonkatsu
Activities
- つば屋庖丁店 | CUTLERY TSUBAYA for knife shopping!
- Rainbow Karaoke Shibuya – favorite karaoke place!
- Onsens (every chance I got)
- Gardens in Kanazawa and Kyoto
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
- Fushimi Inari Shrine at sunrise
- Hakone pirate cruise & Mt. Fuji views
- Tokyo’s wild contrasts: Meiji Shrine one moment, Shibuya Crossing the next
Tips for Travelers
Japan rewards mindfulness. Slow down, observe, listen.
Brush up on basic Japanese phrases—locals are kind, but English isn’t guaranteed.
Onsens are a must. Embrace the etiquette and enjoy the stillness.
Reflections & Final Thoughts
This trip was one for the memory vault. From onsens to chasing down a view of Mt. Fuji, it was a journey built on beauty, culture, and togetherness. Japan has a way of wrapping you up in calm and wonder at the same time. It’s a place I already can’t wait to return to.
Expedition Hamilton 