And just like that, after a morning in Asakusa getting some personalised chopsticks… our incredible Japan adventure has come to an end.

It’s hard to put into words how much we’ve loved this trip. From the bright lights of Tokyo, the magic of Disney and Harry Potter, the beauty of Kyoto, the peaceful mountains of Hakone, and all the crazy, colourful, unforgettable moments in between — every day gave us something new and exciting and/or beautiful.

Jessie’s wide-eyed excitement (and constant snack-sampling), Craig’s fixing of my terrible navigational skills, and our endless photo-taking made it all even better. I feel like we truly soaked up every bit of adventure, culture, and chaos that Japan had to offer, that we could possibly squeeze in — and my heart is so full from it.

Some highlights we’ll never forget:

• Jessie’s first Disney ride

• Drinking Butterbeer at Hogwarts.

• Wandering Kyoto streets lined with ancient temples.

• Racing across Shibuya Crossing with Jessie laughing the whole way.

• Sharing a moment with a local in the back streets of Ōtsuka.

• Discovering that 7/11 really does have everything you need.

• Finding that, somehow, the vending machines, the tiny ramen shops, the friendly locals, and the everyday moments were just as magical as the “big” sights.

Travelling with a seven-year-old isn’t always easy — there were overtired times, occasional beige meal requests, and moments where we definitely needed coffee right now — but honestly, I wouldn’t change a second of it. Watching the world through Jessie’s eyes makes everything feel even more special, and we feel incredibly lucky to be able to show her these things.

If you’ve been following along with our journey:

Thank you so much. Your messages and comments have made writing these posts even more fun, and I love that you’ve been part of it too.

If you’re planning your own Japan trip:

DO IT. You’ll never regret it. Just pack comfy shoes (shout out to my Teva sandals, which I’ve worn every single day bar one and I don’t have a single blister!!), and a sense of adventure… and maybe leave a little extra space (okay a lot of extra space) in your bag for all the random (but essential) konbini snacks, Don Qui purchases, and other souvenirs you’ll pick up along the way.

Until next time — arigatou gozaimashita, Japan.

You’ve been pure magic.

For my tips and tricks, please read on to the next page.

❤ Laus

Our Japan Survival Guide: Tips, Tricks, and Lessons Learned

Arriving in Japan

• Do the arrival form online to save time — the paper forms can be a little confusing.
• Download the Welcome Suica app before you leave, and load it up once you arrive. (This version is for tourists — the original Suica app isn’t in English.) It’s much easier to track and top up via the app — just tap your phone at the train gates! Note: Children need a physical Suica card, which you can get at JR Ticketing offices.
• If you’re arriving into Narita in the evening with children, book an airport hotel. It’s an hour into Tokyo on the Narita Express, and trust me — you don’t want to be navigating that with tired kids and luggage. Avoid peak hours if you’re transferring beyond Tokyo Station.

Navigating Japan

• Google Maps (or Apple Maps) will be your best friend. Pop in your destination, choose “train travel,” and you’ll get: –
• Train lines
• Platforms
• Best carriage for your stop Entrances and exits
• Estimated journey costs.
• Get an eSIM (I used Holafly) with unlimited data. Pocket Wi-Fi is another option if you have multiple devices, but I preferred just using my phone.
• Phone batteries drain fast — carry a power bank, or download the Charge Spot app to rent power packs on the go (they’re everywhere and can be returned to different locations).
• Check travel times if booking multiple activities on the same day. For example, I booked Harry Potter and TeamLab Planets on the same day — they were an hour apart by train, plus 30 minutes back to our hotel!

Eating in Japan

• Tabelog is widely used for restaurant reviews. Anything over 3 stars is good (they’re harsh critics!). I also used AI chatbots — for example: “Give me highly rated Izakaya options in Ōtsuka with yakitori, sashimi, and sake.”
• Not all restaurants accept cards — carry some cash. Some places use vending machine ticket systems to order your meal.
• Small change adds up fast — 7-Eleven stores have coin machines where you can dump coins and use them up. Carry a bag for rubbish — public bins are rare, so say yes when they ask if you need one.
• Google Translate is essential — for menus, signs, and even quick conversations. (Also, heads up: Horse meat is on some menus — just in case it’s not your thing!)

Shinkansen (Bullet Train) Tips

• Use ticket offices if you’re not confident with machines. If you use machines, remember: you need a base fare + reserved seat fee (this also applies for the airport trains)
• Reserve for oversized luggage if you’re carrying large suitcases — space is tight.
• Forward your luggage to your next hotel whenever you can! It’s reasonably inexpensive and saves dragging bags through stations and streets. (Hotels usually need your luggage by 11 AM the day before delivery.)
• There is no food onboard, so get your food and drink beforehand and eat it on the train.

Planning for Disney

• Buy a picnic sheet (from Daiso or similar) beforehand.
• Arrive at least an hour before opening to beat the queues later on (queue early on to save long queues later in the day). Take breakfast with you for while you wait in line.
• Have the Disney app ready and set your priorities for rides and parades. Familiarise yourself with the map — turn on location services for easier navigation (the signage isn’t great).
• Lock in your first ride as soon as you enter — use the free priority pass, and paid ones too if you want (we found the paid passes worthwhile).
• Reserve your spot for parades — place your picnic sheet on the street up to an hour before the parade starts. It’s allowed and a perfect time to eat, rest, and secure a great view.
• Food tip: You can bring your own food into the parks, but honestly, the restaurant prices weren’t too bad!

I’m sure I’ve missed plenty, but if you’re heading over and feeling overwhelmed (I was — I ended up doing a lot of research), feel free to reach out! I’m always happy to help if I can.