Traveling to Tokyo was one of the most exciting experiences of my life. The city’s vibrant culture, bustling streets, and unique blend of tradition and modernity made it a trip to remember. However, as much as I enjoyed my time there, looking back, there are a few things I wish I had done differently. Here are some of my biggest travel regrets from my Tokyo adventure:
1. Only Spending a Day at Mt. Fuji
Mt. Fuji is one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks, and I was thrilled to include it in my itinerary. Unfortunately, I made the mistake of trying to cram everything into a single day trip. Between the long commute and the limited time to explore, I barely scratched the surface of what the area had to offer. From the picturesque Fuji Five Lakes to the serene Chureito Pagoda, there was so much I missed out on. If I could go back, I’d dedicate at least two full days to fully appreciate the natural beauty and charm of Mt. Fuji.
2. Wearing Uncomfortable Shoes
Tokyo is a city best explored on foot, and I was ready to walk miles to discover its hidden gems. However, my footwear choice turned out to be a complete disaster. The shoes I packed were stylish but far from comfortable. After hours of walking through places like Asakusa, Akihabara, and Shinjuku, my feet were in agony. I ended up spending more time searching for places to sit and rest than enjoying the sights. Lesson learned: prioritize comfort over style when packing for a city like Tokyo.
3. Not Having Extra Space for Baggage
Tokyo is a shopper’s paradise. From trendy fashion stores in Harajuku to quirky souvenirs in Nakamise Street, I couldn’t resist buying things everywhere I went. Unfortunately, I underestimated how much I’d end up purchasing and didn’t leave extra space in my luggage. This resulted in a stressful last-minute scramble to repack and even having to leave behind some of my new finds. If you’re heading to Tokyo, do yourself a favor and bring an expandable suitcase or an extra bag for all your shopping treasures.
4. Post-Trip Depression Is Real
No one talks enough about the emotional rollercoaster that comes after an amazing trip. Returning home after my Tokyo adventure hit me harder than I expected. The vibrant streets, delicious food, and unique culture had become my temporary reality, and leaving it all behind left me feeling empty. It took me weeks to adjust back to my routine and shake off the longing to return. While there’s no way to avoid this completely, journaling or planning your next trip can help ease the post-travel blues.
Final Thoughts
Despite these regrets, my trip to Tokyo was an unforgettable experience. Every mistake taught me valuable lessons that I’ll carry into my future travels. If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo, learn from my missteps and make the most of your adventure. Remember to plan wisely, pack smartly, and savor every moment even the imperfect ones.
Isit better staying in fuji 2 days or 3 days?