Winkfield Family Adventures: Our Japanese Journey from Dream to Reality

Traveling is an adventure that many families dream about, but turning those dreams into reality is an experience like no other. Our journey began on March 11, 2023, when our family of five gathered to discuss vacation destinations. In a surprising twist, our oldest daughter took the initiative, quickly crafting a proposal for Japan. Her passion and excitement lit up the room, and little did we know that her 13th birthday would soon turn into the adventure of a lifetime. With a group of over ten, we packed our bags and headed to Tokyo from July 29 to August 3, 2024.

The planning phase was filled with enthusiasm. We imagined wandering through the busy streets of Tokyo, exploring its fascinating culture. While conducting our research, we discovered that Japan welcomed over 31 million foreign visitors in 2019, a testament to its allure. I used ChatGPT to suggest ideas.

When the day finally arrived, we boarded our plane, after some minor setbacks and weight-load restrictions. Tokyo greeted us with open arms. The first thing we noticed was the temperature! Traveling to Tokyo in July meant contending with the intense summer heat. As we explored, we made it a point to stay hydrated and take breaks in air-conditioned cafés. Cooling fans and towels were essential items that smoothed our journey. Despite the heat, we embraced each experience and the warmth only added to our memories.

As a family of five, we wanted to maximize our time, so we carefully organized our itinerary while leaving some room for spontaneity. The adventure was just beginning, and we were eager to dive into what Tokyo had to offer.

One of our first challenges was mastering Tokyo's public transit system. At first, it seemed intimidating, with its complex web of routes. However, as we navigated the trains, we quickly turned into seasoned travelers. Thank God for Google Maps and Google Translate!

The trains were not only punctual but also clean and efficient, connecting us to major attractions in minutes. We found ourselves in Shibuya, the bustling heart of Tokyo, in under twenty minutes from our hotel. This efficient transit system added an exciting layer to our trip, allowing us to discover new areas and hidden gems along the way.

Shibuya Crossing

A highlight of our trip was Shibuya Crossing. As we stepped onto the sidewalk, we found ourselves engulfed by a sea of people, all navigating their way across the world-famous scramble. The energy was electrifying. We cheered and laughed as we dodged in and out of the crowd, waiting for the perfect moment to cross.

A busy Shibuya Crossing alive with energy and excitement.

After crossing multiple times, we finally found a nearby Starbucks to rest our feet and sip on refreshing iced teas. The people-watching was fascinating, with locals and tourists blending seamlessly into the vibrant cityscape.

Discovering Disney Sea

No family trip would be complete without a day at Disney Sea! As the first Disney park inspired by the mythology of the sea, it provided a unique experience. From the moment we entered, we met Mickey and friends and got autographs. My tip would be to ask the characters to sign in Japanese. The rides kept us going all day until the wonderful show on the water at night. Our personal favorites included Raging Spirits and Journey to the Center of the Earth.

Exploring Japanese Cuisine

A trip to Japan would be incomplete without indulging in its culinary wonders. As a foodie, we set out to discover local delicacies, treating it as both an adventure and a challenge. Turned out to be more of a challenge. There was a ramen spot that had a line down the street. We waited and once we were near the front we learned they only use pork. We ate at McDonald's more than once and I'm not proud of that.

Did you know that sushi consumption in Japan averages about 3 sushi servings per person daily? Too bad I don't have a taste for sushi!

I will say one of our favorite spots was the Soul Food House, where we enjoyed flavorful soul food dishes. The restaurant was warm and inviting, owned by David and LaTonya Whitaker. Each plate was a masterpiece, and trying the mac & cheese, chicken and waffles and salmon felt like home. Their slogan is "Taste the Love" at Soul Food House.

As our trip drew to a close, we reflected on all the incredible experiences we shared. It was a beautiful journey that connected us as a family. We returned home with a newfound appreciation for this amazing world.

We encourage other families to tap into their adventurous spirit and explore the world together. Whether your plans include an international trip or a local adventure, the memories you create together will surely last a lifetime. Japan will always hold a special place in our hearts.