Traveling to Japan feels like stepping into both the past and the distant future at the same time. Our journey started in Amsterdam with a layover in Shanghai, and while the 10-hour flight was long, China Eastern took great care of us. For accommodation, we chose the Hotel Monterey chain—a practical choice, as they quickly transfer luggage between their properties, and the rooms come equipped with every extra (even pajamas!). Shrines and Temples: Islands of Tranquility Tokyo’s sacred sites are breathtaking, each carrying its own unique story: Tobiki Inari (飛木稲荷神社): The shrine for onigiri lovers, where you can pray to the "onigiri deity." Sensō-ji (浅草寺): The city's oldest temple, reached via the atmospheric Nakamise-dōri shopping street. Meiji Shrine (明治神宮): Tucked deep inside a massive forest. A special highlight is the joined "husband-and-wife trees," where couples pray for blessings on their life together. Gardens Where Time Stands Still Imperial Palace Eas...