REFLECTING ON THE JOY OF EXPLORING JAPAN

03/28/2023

Reflecting on her time in Japan, Tee George struggled to limit her favorite experiences on the ground to just a few highlights. Her time was filled with dazzling moments in Tokyo and days spent immersing herself in the beauty of nature along the Japanese coast. Flying with ANA made the journey from Georgia a memorable experience all its own, which she documented with stunning imagery and videos on Instagram. An added bonus was seeing the Northern Lights from her business class window on the flight home.

Here, she shares her favorite moments in Japan. These are the experiences that she recalls first when friends ask about the trip and the destinations she’s already dreaming of getting back to — all of which capture the joy of exploring the dream-worthy destination that is Japan.

Shibuya Sky provided the most incredible 360-degree view of the city. Being on the observation deck at sunset made the already amazing views absolutely stunning. Tip: Buy your ticket ahead of time and save 200 yen.

Website: Shibuya Scramble Square

2-24-12 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-6145

Shibuya Crossing, the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world, was an unforgettable highlight. Seeing this felt like I had truly “arrived” in Tokyo. You can see it from Shibuya Sky thanks to a special corner called “Sky Edge” — and this is the view.

Shibuya Scramble Square, 2-24-12 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-6145

Around the corner from our hotel was a ramen spot with a very long line, which is always a good sign. The pork and veggie ramen were delicious. They tasted incredibly fresh and the servings were so big that we struggled to finish.

Website: Ippudo

Ippudo, 4-9-11 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0032

The TeamLab Planet art exhibit was incredible. Among others, there is a crystal room, a room where you’re up to your knees in water, and the room pictured here — where flowers hang from the ceiling. It’s all about immersing yourself in the art.

Website: TeamLab Planets

6-1-16 Toyosu, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0061

Mt. Fuji was unbelievable in person. It’s so massive that I felt like an ant standing in front of it. Getting there takes some patience, as bus tickets have to be purchased in person (I recommend getting them the day before you intend to go) and you have to take a train back. It’s worth it, especially seeing it from Lake Kawaguchi. I could have spent two whole days here.

Website: Fujisan World Heritage Center

6663-1 Funatsu, Fujikawaguchiko, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0301

We took a two-hour drive from Tokyo to explore the Jogasaki Coast, which was beautiful. While wet and rainy, everything around us was a beautiful shade of turquoise.

Website: Jogasaki Coast

Futo, Itō, Shizuoka 413-0231

Why wouldn’t you put a sea cave on your Japanese itinerary? Beautiful from every angle, the Ryugu Sea Cave has a trail that takes you around the rim of the cave, and from the top, it looks like a heart.

Website: Jogasaki Coast

Touji, Shimoda, Shizuoka 415-0029