Our first trip overseas together was to Japan in January 2023. In this post, reminisce with us as we recount our first five days in the bustling metropolis of Tōkyō!

We swap Tokyo's city buzz for the charming winter wonderland that is Kyōto. In the next five days of our journey, we navigate the city on two wheels, find the best vegetable gyōza, get cozy in traditional futons, and even attempt cooking Japanese curry in our own kitchen.

From Kyoto's serene landscapes, we hop over to Osaka's electric buzz. For the next two nights, we dive into the city's lively streets, sample some of the best food in Japan, visit Universal Studios, and drink the night away at an Australian pub.

In our brief but memorable stay, we navigate Hiroshima's powerful past and present. From the evocative Peace Museum and Memorial Park, to stunning views and rooftop drinks, and even tackling the bustling streets for HDMI cables. A visit to Miyajima Island brings us face-to-face with friendly deer and the iconic floating torii gate, offering a mix of adventure and tranquility.

On our way back to Tōkyō, we make a detour for the Japanese alps to pay a visit to the snow monkeys, try our hands at skiing, and indulge in some truly delicious izakaya food. Along the way, we meet some interesting characters and appreciate the stunning vistas of the snowy Japanese countryside.

Our final days in Japan were spent back in Tōkyō, where we crossed off the Studio Ghibli Museum, the Tōkyō Skytree, and teamLab Planets from our bucket list. From getting lost in Shibuya station to dining at sushi trains, we made the most of our last few days in Japan before getting ready to head home.