05/30/2026
Unpacked Japan - by Carole LeBlanc
We just returned from an unforgettable trip to Japan, and it exceeded every expectation. When planning, we debated between a land-only vacation or a land-and-cruise combo. Choosing the cruise option was absolutely the right call — it allowed us to see so much more of the country without constantly packing and unpacking.
✈️ Vancouver Stopover
To ease the long travel time and jet lag, we spent a few days in Vancouver before flying to Tokyo. It was the perfect decision — Vancouver is beautiful, and by the time we boarded our 10‑hour flight to Japan, we were already adjusted to the first time zone.
🏙️ Tokyo
With limited days on land, our schedule was packed. In Tokyo, we explored stunning architecture and landscapes on a private tour and visited TeamLab Planets — a must‑see immersive experience. Tokyo is massive (38 million people!), hot, vibrant, and full of neon energy. It felt like a cleaner, safer version of New York City. We stayed in Shinjuku, which was central, walkable, and a great hotel area.
🚄 Nagoya & Kyoto
We took the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Nagoya so my son and his fiancée could visit Ghibli Park — a dream for anime fans. Afterward, we continued to Kyoto, where I wish we’d had more time. Kyoto was magical: bamboo forests, temples, samurai and ninja experiences, and breathtaking nighttime views. Another private tour helped us make the most of our short stay.
🚢 Yokohama & the Cruise
From Kyoto, we took another bullet train to Yokohama to board the Diamond Princess for a 10‑night cruise around Japan, including a stop in South Korea. Visiting seven ports gave us a richer sense of local life, especially in smaller cities that contrasted beautifully with Tokyo and Kyoto. The ship itself — built in Japan — had an onsen, Japanese menu, and cultural activities. It was older but very well maintained, and I loved having one room for the rest of our trip instead of living out of suitcases.
My Japan Ratings
Safety — 10/10
Japan is the safest country I’ve ever visited. We saw no homelessness, begging, or visible addiction issues. I felt completely comfortable walking anywhere, even alone. Every mode of transportation — subway, bus, tram, train, taxi, Uber — felt secure.
Cleanliness — 10/10
Despite the huge population, the cities were spotless. There are no public garbage cans, yet no litter anywhere. Even public bathrooms were clean and often equipped with the famous Japanese toilets (heated seats and all!).
Architecture & History — 9/10
Japan blends ancient traditions with futuristic design. Temples, shrines, samurai history, neon skylines, gardens, and museums — it’s visually overwhelming in the best way. The WWII history adds another powerful layer.
People — 10/10
The Japanese people were among the kindest and most polite we’ve ever met. Communication was easy with a mix of basic Japanese phrases and Google Translate. Public spaces were quiet, orderly, and respectful, and no constant horn honking with impatient drivers — my kind of environment.
🍜 Food
We’re not adventurous eaters, so we stuck to rice and ramen. My son and his fiancée, however, loved trying different Japanese dishes. Fresh fruits and vegetables were less common because much of it is exported, but food markets and restaurants are everywhere.
💡 Tips & Final Thoughts
If Japan isn’t on your bucket list, it should be. It is a country that will impress on every level.
• It is very safe and clean.
• It is culturally rich and visually stunning.
•Japanese people are friendly and kind.
• The Canadian dollar goes far (and tipping isn’t customary, although we tipped our guides and gave them maple candies, which they loved).
• Smaller cities and markets often accept cash only, so bring yen.
• Prepare for lots of walking with comfortable shoes.
If you are interested in visiting Japan, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. Arigato Gozaimasu Japan ❤️
