Sushi, Shrines & Shinkansen: My 6-Day Love Affair with Japan

From Convenience Store Feasts to Sacred Peaks and Thousand Torii Dreams...

Stepping off the plane in Japan felt like walking straight into a technicolor dream. Cartoon mascots smiled from billboards, vending machines blinked with every drink you could imagine, and the air buzzed with a kind of curious magic. I came to Japan expecting sushi and cherry blossoms—but what I got was a dazzling collision of convenience store feasts, spiritual mountains, futuristic trains, and centuries-old temples that all blended into the most unforgettable trip of my life.

Let’s start with the part no one talks about enough: the food at 7-Eleven. I need you to forget everything you know about convenience stores because in Japan, 7-Eleven is not just a pit stop—it’s a food sanctuary. I became completely obsessed. My mornings often started with an onigiri in hand, filled with creamy tuna mayo or salty salmon, wrapped in perfectly seasoned rice and that magical crisp seaweed. I lived for the egg salad sandwiches, with their soft white bread and whipped, yolky goodness. The sushi trays were fresher than some restaurants I’ve been to back home. And don’t even get me started on the cheese katsu sandwiches—gooey, rich, and surprisingly comforting. I would stop in several times a day just to try something new. I even began rating them in my notes app like some kind of snack critic.

When I wasn’t hunched over a 7-Eleven bento box in delight, I was spiraling down the sensory overload that is Don Quijote, or “Donki” as it’s lovingly called. This place is a multi-story labyrinth of chaos and magic. Imagine a store that sells matcha Kit Kats, cosplay costumes, designer handbags, household gadgets, Japanese beauty products, and the weirdest yet most wonderful souvenirs—all stacked like Tetris blocks with flashing signs and theme songs playing over the intercom. I got lost in there more than once. Every time I thought I was done, another corner revealed something even more irresistible. Did I buy flavored Kit Kats in bulk? Absolutely. Did I also buy a panda-shaped sleep mask I didn’t need? You bet. There’s no such thing as restraint in Donki.

Despite being a complete tourist, I felt like Tokyo welcomed me with open arms. The train system, especially, made exploring so easy. I’d heard people talk about how complex it was, but thanks to English translations, clear signage, and the efficiency Japan is known for, it was smooth sailing—or should I say, smooth riding. I zipped between neighborhoods like Shinjuku and Shibuya, marveling at how each one had its own energy. Shinjuku felt like the future—towering buildings lit up in LED, giant screens looping anime trailers, and the quiet chaos of crowds flowing like water. In Shibuya, I joined the iconic scramble crossing, feeling like I had stepped inside a movie. And of course, I had to ride the bullet train. It was sleek, fast, and incredibly punctual. I grabbed a bento box from the station, snagged a window seat, and watched the countryside blur past in watercolor speed.

One of the absolute highlights of this trip was our first day tour—Mount Fuji and Hakone. We woke up painfully early, around 5 a.m., and met our group at the LOVE sculpture in Shinjuku. Boarding the coach bus was like stepping into a mini-luxury lounge. Soft seats, mood lighting, and even onboard Wi-Fi made the long drive feel short. As Tokyo’s skyline melted away into rolling hills and foggy forests, I felt the shift from modern to mystical. Reaching the 5th Station of Mount Fuji was surreal. At 2,305 meters above sea level, the air was crisp and filled with pine. A tiny Shinto shrine perched on the slope gave the whole scene a spiritual energy. I stood there, the clouds swirling below us, the snow-capped peak stretching above, and I felt small in the best possible way. Even with the crowds, there was a peaceful hush—like everyone collectively understood how sacred the mountain was.

After a quick souvenir stop, we enjoyed a buffet lunch in a cozy lodge nestled in the woods. Picture this: cedar trees outside the window, Mount Fuji in the distance, and a buffet of Japanese comfort food. I still dream about the miso soup, grilled fish glazed in mirin, delicate mochi, and the fluffiest rice I’ve ever tasted. Recharged and full, we headed off to the Hakone Ropeway. Floating above the volcanic valley was like flying over another planet. Below us, steam curled from bright yellow sulfur vents. It smelled a little intense, but the view made up for it tenfold. The ropeway dropped us off near Lake Ashi, where we climbed aboard the most dramatic tourist boat ever—a pirate ship. Yes, a full-on, wooden-decked, flag-flying pirate ship. It cruised across the lake as we licked matcha soft serve and snapped pictures of the torii gate in the distance, half submerged in water and framed by mist. Japan, you really do drama well.

Our second big adventure was a full-day tour of Kyoto, and let me just say—Kyoto is straight-up ethereal. While Tokyo dazzles with neon and speed, Kyoto whispers stories through its temples, gardens, and cobblestone alleys. Our first stop was Kiyomizu-dera, a massive temple complex that’s been standing since the year 778. Set on a hillside with sweeping views of the city, the temple felt like it was floating. The wooden terrace juts out over the forest below, and I just stood there breathing it all in. We walked past giant gates, let the bells echo around us, and watched cherry blossoms drift past our path. I couldn’t help but think—this is where stories are born.

Then we visited Sanjusangendo, which houses 1,001 golden statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. I wasn’t ready for the way the space would hit me. The hall seemed to glow. Each statue had slight variations—one would have a fierce face, another looked serene. It felt alive, like being inside a living prayer. After that, we took a break in Arashiyama, where lunch was served overlooking the famous Togetsukyo Bridge. With the river flowing and petals floating by, it felt like time paused.

Next up was the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, and honestly, pictures don’t do it justice. Tall green stalks shot up to the sky, swaying gently in the breeze. It was quiet, almost hauntingly so. Every rustle felt amplified. I half expected a spirit or a fox god to glide out from behind the trees. We followed the path to Tenryu-ji, a temple surrounded by a Zen garden so perfect it didn’t feel real. Stone paths, koi ponds, maple trees—it was peace, distilled.

And then there was the crown jewel—Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. It sits on the edge of a mirror-still pond, covered in gold leaf, glowing like something from a fairytale. I couldn’t stop staring at it. I whispered “is this real?” at least ten times. Our final stop was the famed Fushimi Inari Shrine. You’ve seen the pictures—the endless tunnel of red torii gates winding up the mountain. But walking it? That’s another story. Each gate is donated by a business or individual, and together they form this hypnotic, sacred path. The deeper we walked, the quieter it got. I didn’t want it to end.

Japan was everything—hype, hustle, holiness, and harmony. One minute I was eating convenience store sushi on a bullet train, the next I was meditating in a 700-year-old temple. It’s a country that somehow blends ancient reverence with futuristic fun, where kindness is in the air and beauty hides in every detail.

Would I go again? In a heartbeat. Would I recommend it to anyone even remotely curious? Absolutely. Japan isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience that lingers long after your suitcase is unpacked.

Japan Overview

Japan’s skyline felt like stepping into the future—towering skyscrapers of glass and steel rising so high they seemed to tickle the clouds, neon signs flickering in every color of the rainbow, and bustling streets that never quite slept. We wandered through Shinjuku’s gleaming canyons of high‑rises, gasped at the organized chaos of Shibuya Crossing, then made our way to Tokyo Tower, where the city spread out beneath us like a glittering circuit board. From that perch, the endless mosaic of rooftops, winding highways, and tiny neighborhoods felt both infinite and intimately human. Back on the ground, the food scene was just as dazzling: gourmet onigiri and egg‑sandwich perfection from 7‑Eleven at dawn; a Don Quijote spree for quirky snacks and souvenirs at bargain prices; late‑night ramen that hit every umami note; and sushi so fresh it practically melted on your tongue. Even the vending machines became an adventure—sipping hot coffee, slurping sweet soup, or discovering bizarre but irresistible treats at the push of a button. Every bite, every light, every skyscraper told a story of a city that embraces both cutting‑edge technology and timeless tradition, and I couldn’t imagine a more exhilarating introduction to the heart of Japan.

Visiting Japan is an unforgettable experience, but to make the most of your trip, here are some top tips that will help you navigate the country like a local:

1. Master the Train System

• Japan’s public transportation system, especially the Shinkansen (bullet train), is incredibly efficient. The trains are on time, clean, and easy to use. Get a Japan Rail Pass if you're planning on traveling across multiple cities, or an IC card (like Suica or Pasmo) for local travel in Tokyo.

• Always queue up in an orderly line at train stations, and wait for passengers to exit before boarding.

2. Learn Basic Japanese Phrases

• While many people speak English, knowing a few basic Japanese phrases can go a long way in making your trip smoother. Key phrases to learn include:

  • Arigato gozaimasu (Thank you very much)

  • Sumimasen (Excuse me, sorry)

  • Wakarimasen (I don’t understand)

• Use a translation app if you're stuck—most Japanese are very helpful and patient with non-Japanese speakers.

3. Respect the Etiquette

• Remove your shoes when entering homes, temples, certain restaurants, and some hotels.

• Quiet and polite behavior is highly valued, especially on public transportation. Avoid speaking loudly on the phone or in public.

• Respect the queues—Japan is known for its orderly lines, whether at a train station, escalator, or even waiting for a taxi.

4. Cash is King

• Japan is still very much a cash-based society, and many small businesses or local stores don’t accept credit cards. Always carry enough cash (yen) with you.

• ATMs at 7-Eleven stores often accept international cards, so they’re great for withdrawing cash.

• Tip: Don’t tip in Japan. It’s not customary, and some might even find it rude.

5. Embrace the Food Scene

• Japanese food is more than just sushi. Try local specialties wherever you go, like ramen, tempura, takoyaki, and okonomiyaki. Don’t forget about Japan’s amazing street food!

• Conveyor belt sushi (kaiten sushi) is a fun, affordable way to enjoy fresh sushi.

• Many vending machines offer unique drinks and snacks—be sure to try one!

6. Explore Nature and Temples

• Japan’s beauty isn’t just in its cities. Take time to explore temples like Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) in Kyoto or the tranquil Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.

• Hiking is a great way to see Japan’s stunning nature, with trails ranging from Mount Fuji’s famous ascent to peaceful walks through local forests.

7. Public Restrooms Are Everywhere

• Public restrooms in Japan are generally very clean and easy to find. Many shopping centers, train stations, and even parks offer free, well-maintained bathrooms.

• Some Japanese toilets feature bidet functions, and don’t be surprised if you encounter a heated seat in public restrooms!

8. Plan Your Cash-Free Transactions in Advance

• Many stores accept contactless payments like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Suica cards for easy, cashless transactions.

• Convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart are everywhere and not only sell snacks but also offer services like paying bills, shipping packages, and even printing documents.

9. Don't Miss the Onsens (Hot Springs)

• Japan is famous for its hot springs, or onsen, which are deeply ingrained in Japanese culture. Visit an onsen resort for a relaxing soak.

• Remember, onsen etiquette is important: clean yourself thoroughly before entering the communal bath, and keep towels out of the water.

10. Respect Japanese Privacy

• Japan places great importance on personal space and privacy. Don’t ask overly personal questions unless you're close with someone, and always be mindful of body language.

• If you're taking photos, ask permission first, especially in temples, shrines, and other sacred places.

11. Stay in Ryokan (Traditional Inns)

• If you want to experience a truly traditional Japanese experience, stay in a ryokan. These inns offer tatami mat rooms, yukatas (Japanese robes), and often feature communal baths.

12. Understand Japanese Trash Disposal

• Public trash bins are rare in Japan, so you may need to carry your trash with you until you find a proper place to dispose of it.

• Be sure to separate recyclables and non-recyclables if you're using local bins.

13. Seasonal Experiences Are a Must

• Japan’s seasons are distinct and offer unique experiences:

  • Cherry blossoms (sakura) in spring

  • Autumn leaves in fall

  • Snow festivals in winter

• Take advantage of the seasonal foods like sakura-flavored sweets or hotpot dishes during colder months.

14. Punctuality is Key

• Punctuality is valued in Japan. Always be on time, whether for meetings, trains, or social engagements. The train system is precise to the minute.

15. Enjoy the Festivals

• Japan hosts numerous festivals (matsuri) year-round. If your visit coincides with a festival, make sure to check it out for traditional dance, food stalls, and spectacular floats. Notable festivals include Gion Matsuri in Kyoto and Tanabata in Sendai.

16. Stay at Capsule Hotels for a Unique Experience

• Capsule hotels are a fun and economical way to stay, especially for solo travelers. These compact rooms, perfect for short stays, are equipped with everything you need, from Wi-Fi to a comfy bed.

With these tips in hand, you’re all set to explore the vibrant, quirky, and serene sides of Japan! Whether you’re strolling through ancient temples, soaking in the energy of Tokyo’s neon streets, or savoring your first bite of sushi, Japan offers something unforgettable at every turn