Tokyo – Page 2 – Travels With Matt Blog

A Train Ride in Japan I Still Think About

There’s one train ride from my last trip to Japan that I find myself returning to more than any other. It wasn’t my first time on the Shinkansen, and it wasn’t even the longest journey I took. But something about that ride — moving from Osaka back to Tokyo — has stayed with me in a quiet, persistent way.

How Japan Changed the Way I Move Through a City

Before traveling to Japan, I thought I knew how to navigate cities.

I knew how to plan routes, pin destinations, and optimize days so nothing was “wasted.” I moved through places with intent, but also with a quiet sense of urgency — always aware of what was next, what I might miss, and how much ground I could cover.

Japan changed that, all for the better.

What Japan Taught Me About Slowing Down

The end of the year has a way of making people rush.

Everyone starts talking about what’s next — goals, plans, resolutions, big ideas for the year ahead. But as I look toward 2026, I find myself moving in the opposite direction. Instead of speeding up, I keep thinking about slowing down. And once again, that instinct leads me back to Japan.

Thank you, Japan

I returned home a few weeks ago after spending two weeks in Japan, exploring Tokyo, Osaka, and several smaller towns along the way. It was one of most incredible trips I have ever had in my four visits to the Land of the Rising Sun.

The sites, the foods, the places I experienced and the people I met along the way will always hold a special place in my heart. Makiko, Kayoka, Ittaa, Yoshie, Yoshi, Hiro, Yumi, and so many more I can’t list all made my trip incredible. From the knowledge, the care, and stories each one shared along the way made the trip one of the best I have ever taken in my entire life.

My life has not been the same since I got back to the states, with my thoughts always on Japan and missing the world I was lucky enough to live in for two weeks. A piece of my heart is still in Japan and I miss it every day.

The Final Countdown: One Month to Japan

The countdown is officially on—only 30 days until I travel to Japan! After months of planning and preparing, the trip I’ve been dreaming about is finally within reach. Japan has always held a special place in my heart after several visits, and I can’t wait to experience everything this incredible country has to offer once again.

How to Respectfully Visit Shinto Shrines in Japan

Exploring Japan’s sacred sites is a unique and enriching experience, but it’s important to follow proper etiquette when visiting Shinto shrines. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to respectfully interact with shrines while embracing their traditions.

Why Are There So Few Trash Bins in Japan? A Tourist’s Guide to Managing Waste

If you’re walking through almost any city in Japan, you’ll quickly notice something unusual—something that’s missing: public trash bins. Unlike many Western cities where you’ll find garbage cans on nearly every street corner, Japan takes a different approach. So, what should you do with your trash as you explore the country?

Navigating the Sake Seas: A Guide to Japanese Drinking Culture for First-Time Visitors

One of the easiest ways to understand Japan isn’t through a museum or a landmark.

It’s sitting down somewhere small, ordering a drink, and watching how the night unfolds.

Japan’s drinking culture has a rhythm to it. It’s social, respectful, sometimes a little loud, and often full of small traditions you don’t notice until you’re in the middle of them.

5 places to stop around Shibuya

Welcome to Shibuya, Tokyo’s pulsating heart where tradition intertwines seamlessly with modernity, and every corner tells a story of vibrant urban life.

In this guide, we’ll unveil the quintessential places to explore in Shibuya, including the newest addition to its skyline, Shibuya Sky. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, prepare to be captivated by the kaleidoscope of experiences awaiting you in this dynamic district.

Lantern Room – Team Labs, Tokyo

The lantern room from the Team Labs museum experience in Odaiba, Tokyo, Japan. Shot with an Iphone 10 (2019).

Navigating the Tokyo Subway System: A First-Time Traveler’s Guide

Visiting Tokyo, Japan, for the first time can be an exciting and overwhelming experience. With its bustling streets, neon signs, and rich culture, Tokyo offers an adventure around every corner. One of the essential skills for a traveler to master in this metropolis is navigating the Tokyo subway system. The subway system is efficient, extensive, and the key to unlocking the city’s treasures.

In this article, we will provide you with essential tips and information to confidently navigate the Tokyo subway system during your first visit.

Navigating Tokyo: A Comprehensive Guide to Walking, Subways, Taxis, and Uber

Tokyo, the bustling metropolis of Japan, is a city that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. With its expansive urban landscape, navigating Tokyo may seem like a daunting task, but fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various transportation options available, ensuring you make the most of your time in this vibrant city.

From the simplicity of walking to the efficiency of subways, the convenience of taxis, and the modern touch of Uber, we’ve got you covered.