From Karuizawa's Autumn Trails to Tokyo's Trendy Landmarks

Japan is truly a place to slow down and savor life, and this trip embodied my favorite travel rhythm: half relaxation, half exploration. 📍 The itinerary started in Nagano's Karuizawa and ended in Tokyo's city center, with each stop redefining the meaning of "travel." 🌿 Karuizawa: A romance of forests and tranquil lakes In Karuizawa, I witnessed the breathtaking sight of autumn leaves blanketing the lakeside for the first time. Kumoba Pond is my hidden gem recommendation—walking around it takes just over 20 minutes, but every second makes you want to pause and take a photo. The lake is so still it mirrors the blue sky and crimson leaves, with light and shadows shifting like nature's impromptu performance. After leaving Kumoba Pond, I suggest strolling along "Old Karuizawa Ginza Street." This area retains a strong Showa-era charm, featuring old coffee shops, art galleries, handmade desserts, and traditional Japanese houses converted into quaint shops. Spending a leisurely day here without rushing is the most comfortable way to travel. 🛤️ Travel Tip: It takes just over an hour to reach Karuizawa from Tokyo by Shinkansen, making it perfect for a 2-day, 1-night trip or even a day trip. ⸻ 🗼 Tokyo: Capturing moments in a fast-paced city Back in Tokyo, I switched gears to "city exploration mode." Starting at Asakusa's Kaminarimon Gate, I walked through the bustling Nakamise Street, bought some ningyo-yaki (traditional sweets), drew a fortune slip, and soaked in the lively festival atmosphere. Though it feels touristy, the mix of Showa-era vibes and the energy of visitors is what makes Tokyo's contradictions so captivating. Next was the awe-inspiring Unicorn Gundam in Odaiba. The moment it moved gave me goosebumps! Even as someone who isn't a Gundam fan, I found it exhilarating. Experiencing it in person is entirely different, especially with the stunning twilight lighting—it's a "must-visit" spot for a once-in-a-lifetime photo. I saved the final stop for Tokyo Tower. This iconic landmark isn't just for tourists; for me, seeing it every time I visit Tokyo feels like a ritual. The weather was perfect that day, with blue skies complementing the red-and-white tower. Every photo looked like a postcard, and I highly recommend going up the tower to enjoy panoramic views of Minato City and Tokyo Bay.