Kobe, Japan, May 2024

At the end of May 2024, the long-awaited trip to Japan finally began. From the moment we boarded the plane from Warsaw to Tokyo, the excitement was undeniable. Watching the flight path on the screen, crossing over Asia, and realising that soon we would be landing in a country that was completely new for both of us added to the thrill.

Arrival in Tokyo – First Impressions

We arrived at Narita Airport at night, exhausted but eager to experience the vibrancy of Tokyo. The long ride into the city gave us our first glimpses of the dazzling lights and towering skyscrapers. Our hotel choice wasn’t perfect, but it didn’t matter—we were too excited about the adventure ahead.

Tokyo is a city of contrasts—a place where ancient traditions exist side by side with ultramodern technology. Over the next few days, we explored different parts of the city, from the historic streets of Asakusa to the futuristic skyline of Shinjuku and Shibuya.
• Meeting Atsuko – A Special Reunion
One of the highlights was meeting my dear Japanese friend, Atsuko, whom I first met years ago in South Sudan. Now working for UNHCR in Tokyo, she generously invited us to experience authentic Japanese cuisine, introducing us to an array of dishes, including fresh sushi. She also brought thoughtful souvenirs for my mum, which made the evening even more special.
• A River Cruise and the Skytree
One of the most memorable experiences was taking a cruise along the river, admiring the mix of modern and traditional architecture from the water. Later, we visited the Tokyo Skytree, one of the tallest towers in the world, which offered panoramic views of the endless Tokyo skyline.

A Day Trip to Mount Fuji and Hakone

Leaving the fast-paced city behind, we took a bus journey to Mount Fuji, stopping in Narusawa to take in the breathtaking view of Japan’s most famous peak. The sight of Fuji’s symmetrical snow-capped cone was truly awe-inspiring, a symbol of Japan’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

From there, we continued to Hakone, an area known for its hot springs and stunning landscapes. Riding the Hakone Ropeway, we had an incredible view of Lake Ashi, and the famous torii gate standing in the water, creating a picture-perfect scene. The mix of mountains, forests, and volcanic activity made Hakone a fascinating contrast to Tokyo’s urban sprawl.

Riding the Shinkansen to Kobe

Another unforgettable part of the trip was riding the legendary Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kobe. The sheer speed of the train was an experience in itself, as we passed through some of Japan’s most famous cities—Yokohama, Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka—in what felt like no time at all.

Kobe turned out to be a delightful surprise. The city has a unique blend of Japanese and international influences, which is evident in places like Kobe’s Chinatown, one of the most famous in Japan. Walking through the bustling streets lined with colourful lanterns and street food vendors, we sampled delicious dumplings, bao buns, and other Chinese delicacies. The city’s harbour area, with its scenic waterfront, was a great place to take in the fresh sea air and reflect on how diverse Japan’s cities can be.

The Return Journey – Flying Over Alaska

Soon, it was time to board our flight back to Warsaw, but the surprises weren’t over yet. Due to sanctions preventing European airlines from flying over Russia, our plane took an alternative northern route, passing around the Kamchatka Peninsula and flying over Alaska! Seeing the vast, untouched landscapes of snow-covered mountains and frozen coastlines from above was an unexpected but thrilling way to end the trip.

A Journey to Remember

Japan was everything we had hoped for and more. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serenity of Mount Fuji, from the modern efficiency of the Shinkansen to the historical charm of Kobe, every moment felt special and unforgettable. More than anything, sharing this adventure with Mum made it truly priceless.

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