Tokyo, Japan, is a vibrant and dynamic city with a rich blend of traditional and modern attractions. Here are five must-visit attractions in Tokyo:

1. Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea:

   • Located in Urayasu, just outside Tokyo, these two Disney theme parks offer a magical experience for visitors of all ages. Tokyo Disneyland features classic Disney attractions, while Tokyo DisneySea offers a unique maritime-themed park with one-of-a-kind rides.

2. Senso-ji Temple (Asakusa Kannon Temple):

   • This is Tokyo's oldest temple, located in the historic Asakusa district. The iconic Thunder Gate (Kaminarimon), Nakamise-dori shopping street, and the main hall are major highlights. Senso-ji is a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike.

3. Tsukiji Fish Market and Toyosu Market:

   • While the original Tsukiji Fish Market has moved to Toyosu, both are worth a visit. Toyosu Market is a modern facility where you can witness tuna auctions and explore the market's fresh seafood offerings. It's a food lover's paradise with numerous sushi and seafood restaurants.

4. Shibuya Crossing and Hachiko Statue:

   • Shibuya Crossing is one of the busiest pedestrian crossings globally, offering a mesmerizing sight when the lights turn green, and people cross from all directions. The nearby Hachiko Statue commemorates the loyal dog Hachiko and is a popular meeting point.

5. Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu):

• Nestled in Shibuya, Meiji Shrine is a serene oasis in the heart of Tokyo. Dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, the shrine is surrounded by a lush forest. Visitors can participate in traditional Shinto rituals, and the expansive grounds provide a peaceful escape from the urban hustle.

These attractions showcase Tokyo's diverse offerings, from traditional temples and shrines to modern theme parks and bustling markets. Keep in mind that Tokyo has much more to offer, including unique neighborhoods, museums, and cultural experiences.

Japan is a fascinating country with a rich cultural heritage, modern technology, and beautiful landscapes. I visited June-July of 2023 and fell in LOVE! 

Here are some travel tips for visiting Japan in 2024 :D

1. 1.Transportation:

   • Consider getting a Japan Rail Pass if you plan to travel between cities. It offers unlimited travel on most JR trains for a fixed period.
   • Public transportation is excellent, so use trains and buses for city travel. In major cities, the subway systems are efficient and easy to navigate.
   • Renting a pocket Wi-Fi or getting a SIM card is recommended for easy navigation using maps and translation apps.

2. 2.Accommodation:

   • Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability and possibly get better rates.
   • Traditional ryokans (Japanese inns) offer a unique experience. Try staying in one to enjoy Japanese hospitality.

3. 3.Language:

   • While many people in tourist areas and major cities speak some English, learning a few basic Japanese phrases can be helpful and appreciated.
   • Download a translation app for assistance in communicating with locals.

4. 4.Cultural Etiquette:

   • Familiarize yourself with Japanese customs, such as bowing and removing shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional accommodations.
   • Be mindful of noise levels in public places and refrain from talking on the phone in public transportation.

5. 5.Currency:

   • Cash is still widely used in Japan. Make sure to have enough yen, especially in rural areas or smaller establishments that may not accept credit cards.

6. 6.Weather:

   • Check the weather for your specific travel dates and pack accordingly. Japan experiences four distinct seasons, and the climate can vary greatly.

7. 7.Local Cuisine:

   • Don't miss out on trying local dishes such as sushi, ramen, tempura, and Japanese sweets. Be open to exploring different types of cuisine.
   • Learn basic table manners, such as saying "Itadakimasu" before a meal and "Gochisousama deshita" after finishing.

8. 8.Cultural Attractions:

   • Visit historical sites like Kyoto, with its temples and traditional tea houses, and Tokyo for a mix of modern and traditional attractions.
   • Plan your visit to coincide with traditional festivals or events happening during your stay.

9. 9.Technology:

   • Japan is known for its advanced technology. Embrace it but also be respectful of the local customs and traditions.

10. 10.Respect for Nature:

    • Japan has stunning natural landscapes. Whether it's cherry blossoms in spring or colorful foliage in autumn, try to appreciate the beauty of nature.

Remember to check for any travel advisories or updates before your trip, and have a wonderful time exploring Japan!

10 Tips for Hiking at Arches National Park 

Arches Hike Details 

Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km) round trip

Happy Hiking! 

I have only dram of hiking in UTAH. I started off in September with Zion National Park to only find myself back in this gorgeous state. The vibe, the rocks, the freedom I feel here is something I have never felt before. 

First things first, where to stay! We stayed at Bryce Pioneer Village and we loved it! It was just what we needed to sleep before hiking at Bryce! I was very happy with the price as well. $113 for the night for a deluxe double room with 2 full size beds! We had all the space we needed to prepare for our hike. We bought groceries before so we prepped out snacks and sandwiches here the night before and it was incredible! The beds were comfy, the restroom was spotless, and the staff was very kind. 

Alright, alright, alright... Bryce National Park was everything and more but nothing I expected. I read so much about this park, but not once did I find details on how insanely different this park is from all other parks. I am so happy I booked a flight with my girlfriends and drove 270 miles after our flight to start our 6 days in UTAH. 

We started our hike from the Sunrise Point trail and ended at sunset; however, we should have done it backwards... here is why... 

If you start at sunrise you get to hike down the Navajo loop trail instead of hike up which can definitely be hard for many. We were definitely tired but would have been more calm had we hiked down these switchbacks! Though both ways work, if you have children, breathing problems, knee problems, etc. definitely start at the switchbacks 1st! You will thank me later. 😉 

Another reason to hike the switchbacks at sunset trail first is that this area gets flooded with crowds right after sunrise! Hiking the trail can take a while with taking breaks and so many hikers trying to capture the beauty of the switchbacks. Clearly, we didn't do enough research but we were just going with the flow and that to me was so peaceful. 

Happy Hiking! :D