Japan holds a special place in my heart. Every visit feels like rediscovering a story you never want to end. This year’s 15-day adventure through Fukuoka, Kyoto, and Nagoya brought unforgettable moments: from towering Gundam figures to tranquil parks and whimsical surprises during evening strolls. Every moment felt like magic!
Starting Strong in Fukuoka
Fukuoka welcomed us with its seamless mix of history, nature, and modern excitement. After landing at Fukuoka International Airport, we settled into the cozy Heiwadai Hotel Arato, our base for the next five days.
Our first stop was Ohori Park, where the crisp autumn air set a tranquil mood as we walked along the lake. Nearby, the ruins of Maizuru Park whispered tales of the past, offering a perfect blend of nature and history.
But the city isn’t all calm! At Gundam Park in Lalaport, I stood in awe of a life-sized Gundam statue. The nighttime illumination made it feel like a glowing guardian from another world. Later, Canal Aqua Panorama at Canal City Hakata ended the day with a dazzling water and light show that left us in awe.
Anime enthusiasts like me found paradise exploring stores such as Lashinbang, JUMP Shop, and the Bandai Namco Cross Store Hakata. Every corner revealed treasures—from rare collectibles to nostalgic memorabilia.
Kyoto: Tradition Meets Surprise
A shinkansen ride brought us to Kyoto, where the serene Toyoko Inn Kyoto Biwako Otsu became our home.
Kyoto’s charm lies in its blend of elegance and history. Meeting my friends Kathy and Karmi added warmth to this leg of the trip. Together, we visited iconic landmarks like Kyoto Castle and admired the fiery red torii gates of ancient shrines. Each gate seemed to invite positivity and protection, adding a spiritual layer to their beauty.
One of the most magical moments came from an unexpected train mishap. A detour led us through quiet streets in Arashiyama, where Pokémon-themed manholes featuring Ho-Oh delighted our inner kids. Even the setbacks in Kyoto felt serendipitous.
Shopping districts like Animate Kyoto, Melonbooks, and Village Vanguard offered plenty of chances to explore Kyoto’s lively side. Meanwhile, local dishes like zaru soba were the perfect way to end busy days.
Round 1 in Otsu also provided one whole day of almost endless entertainment!
Nagoya: Energy and Elegance
Our final stop was Nagoya, where we stayed at the Hamilton Hotel Blue Meiekiminami, conveniently located for city adventures.
Nagoya’s mix of modernity and tradition didn’t disappoint. Visits to the Pokémon Center, Lashinbang, and Don Quijote brought endless surprises, from quirky trinkets to exclusive collectibles.
One highlight was visiting Obara Fureai Park, where the rare four-season cherry blossoms amazed us. The sight of delicate pink blossoms against a crisp blue sky felt like stepping into a dream.
Evenings in Nagoya had their own magic. The sleek skyscrapers reflected city lights, creating a futuristic glow, while the vibrant Osu Kannon area added charm and warmth to the bustling streets.
Memories That Last Forever
Looking back, this trip reminded me why Japan continues to captivate my soul. From Fukuoka’s serene parks to Kyoto’s ancient shrines and Nagoya’s vibrant streets, every moment felt like a gift.
This journey wasn’t just about discovering Japan; it was about rediscovering the joy of exploration, the magic of the unexpected, and the warmth of shared moments. Here’s to more adventures ahead!
Key Highlights of the Trip
Gundam Park in Fukuoka: A dream come true for anime fans, with a life-sized Gundam statue and immersive exhibits.
Kyoto Shrines and Kyoto Castle: Every shrine visit felt like stepping into another world, especially with the iconic red gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine.
Pokémon-themed Manholes in Arashiyama: A quirky yet delightful find that made the trip even more special.
Autumn Colors: Experiencing Japan’s natural beauty in full autumn glory at parks like Ohori Park, Obara Fureai Park, and Arashiyama.
Anime Shopping: Whether in Fukuoka, Kyoto, or Nagoya, I found exclusive merchandise that added magic to my collection.
Travel Tips for Japan on a Budget
Hotel Stays: Opt for affordable, comfortable hotels like Toyoko Inn and Heiwadai Hotel to keep costs down without compromising quality.
Eat Local: Don’t miss out on street food! Also maximize the end of day discounts in Grocery Stores.
Shopping: Explore offbeat stores like Lashinbang and Village Vanguard for quirky, affordable finds that add charm to your trip.
Cash is King: While credit cards are widely accepted, make sure to carry some yen for small purchases, especially in rural areas.
Reflecting on the Experience
Each city I visited, from Fukuoka’s blend of nature and modernity to Kyoto’s rich traditions and Nagoya’s vibrant streets, gave me a deeper appreciation for Japan’s unique charm. This journey wasn’t just about ticking off landmarks; it was about connecting with the culture, savoring local flavors, and discovering hidden gems along the way. Whether it was stumbling upon Pokémon manholes in Kyoto or being enchanted by the illuminated Gundam in Fukuoka, every moment had a touch of serendipity.
I can’t wait for my next adventure—there’s always more to discover in this endlessly fascinating country!
Stay Connected
If you’re dreaming of your own Japan adventure, feel free to reach out! You can also find more photos from this trip (and my previous travels) on Instagram at @jemmariebocalbos. Share your thoughts, ask for tips, or simply enjoy the travel stories from fellow explorers.
Here’s to more journeys and the memories that shape us. See you in the next adventure!
Want to talk more with me about travel? I am just a contact form away, contact me here.
Read more about my 2017 Tagaytay travel here
About the Featured Photo:
The original image is a from Pexels.