Tokyo

Niseko is known worldwide for its fantastic powder and is a bucket list destination for many skiers and snowboarders. Off the slopes, Niseko also offers a diverse food and après ski scene that manages to balance the quaintness of an old school ski town with new modern luxury comforts. Combine the amazing skiing in Niseko with a few days exploring Tokyo and you have the recipe for a ski trip of a lifetime.

I recently stayed at the Toranomon Hills Hotel in Tokyo and was thoroughly impressed by the experience. The modern, sleek design of the hotel, combined with its exceptional service, created a luxurious and comfortable atmosphere. The rooms were spacious with stunning views of the city, and the location was perfect for exploring Tokyo's central districts. The attention to detail and the quality of amenities made for a truly memorable stay.

Tokyo was a destination that my family has always wanted to visit. We had plans to visit in 2022, but couldn't due to Japan's COVID restrictions. Now, with my son studying Japan in school, it was the perfect time to finally explore this vibrant city. Tokyo's allure lies in its rich culture, delectable food and unparalleled hospitality. Let this be your Tokyo travel guide for your next family adventure. My top tip? Don't forget to get the Suica card in your Apple Wallet for seamless travels. It's a game-changer!

For an off-the-beaten-path, adventurous and foodie destination in Japan, add Hokkaido to your itinerary. Getting from Tokyo to Hokkaido is easy with a flight time under two hours and multiple daily flights. This guide unlocks the secrets of Hokkaido and shares the best luxury stays and things to do in Tokyo and Hokkaido from my trip in November 2023.

Tokyo, Japan is where I took my first international solo trip and it was such a welcoming adventure. This guide is excellent for first-timers, dog lovers and movie buffs.

Japan in May is a magical time that offers a blend of great weather, vibrant festivals, and stunning natural beauty. It is an ideal month for travelers to experience the country's rich culture and breathtaking landscapes. With the cherry blossoms' fleeting beauty giving way to lush greenery and the excitement of Golden Week, there's no shortage of activities and sights to enjoy.

If you would have told me I would backpack through Okinawa and on through to the island of Japan for 11 days, I would have heavily doubted you, but backpacking was so much easier than lugging suitcases up and down subway stairs and through train stations! Granted, the backpack got heavier as the time went on, but it was always manageable and allowed for much more flexibility than rolling a suitcase. My friend Marla suggested the backpack aspect. She gave me full rein to find and book our accommodations and plan our itinerary as long as they would appeal to her 19- and 22-year-old kids who were joining us. I planned it, we went and it was great!

It was a veritable mix of hotels, price points and experiences aimed at appealing to anyone with a desire to explore, eat a lot (healthy that is), walk even more and rest well (there is just something about sleeping on a futon on top of a tatami mat on the floor that brings on that deep sleep).

Tip: There are services in Japan that will pick up your suitcases and deliver them to your next destination if you don’t want to backpack or lug luggage.

Japan is a country rich in cultural heritage and legacy, from its ancient samurai traditions to its refined artistic practices like sushi, anime and Zen Buddhism. The country is home to stunning natural landscapes, from the iconic Mount Fuji to the serene gardens and bamboo forests. Traveling in Japan allows you to immerse yourself in extraordinary experiences, whether it's staying in a Ryokan, attending a tea ceremony or watching a sumo wrestling match, not to mention the amazing food. The country is full of contrasts and complexities as it blends the ultra-modern and the centuries-old, creating a captivating juxtaposition of old and new.