February 16th: My favorite day in Japan
February 16th wasn’t just one of our final days in Japan—it was the day that captured everything I loved about this incredible country. A perfect blend of history, culture, food, and art, all shared with good company. We kicked things off by meeting my cousin, Nikolai, at the Tokyo National Museum, an absolute treasure trove of Japan’s rich past. While the Hello Kitty special exhibit was drawing quite the crowd (understandably so), we decided to dive straight into the heart of tradition: the main hall. The highlight for me? The kimonos. These weren’t just clothes; they were wearable masterpieces, each thread telling its own story. The intricate patterns, vivid colors, and delicate embroidery weren’t just beautiful—they were reflections of Japan’s centuries-old dedication to craftsmanship. Every stitch carried whispers of history, signaling not just fashion, but status, symbolism, and artistic expression passed down through generations.
Of course, no deep dive into Japan’s cultural legacy would be complete without samurai armor and katanas. Each piece felt like it had its own spirit—echoes of battles fought and honor preserved. The sheer detail in the armor was mesmerizing, from the layered plates to the menacing masks. If you have any fascination with Japan’s warrior past, this museum is a must-see.
After soaking up the history, we stumbled upon a lively festival right outside the museum. The air buzzed with music, laughter, and the irresistible smell of street food. We grabbed some snacks and drinks, a perfect warm-up for what would soon become the best meal of the trip—yakiniku. Nikolai took us to an incredible yakiniku spot, where the concept is as brilliant as it is simple: 70–90 minutes of all-you-can-eat, grill-your-own meat perfection. But this wasn’t just any meat—we’re talking wagyu beef, marbled to perfection and practically melting on the grill. The act of cooking it ourselves added a fun, interactive twist, turning the meal into both an experience and a celebration. Every bite was packed with juicy, smoky, mind-blowing flavor. Between the sizzling grill, the lively chatter, and Nikolai’s hospitality, this meal easily became an unforgettable highlight.
But the night wasn’t over yet.
Our final stop was TeamLab Planets, a museum that completely redefined what I thought an art experience could be. This isn’t your typical “look-but-don’t-touch” gallery—it’s an interactive journey where technology, nature, and creativity collide. Every room felt like stepping into another dimension, engaging not just your eyes but all your senses. One moment that stayed with me: wading barefoot through ankle-deep, warm water in a room that transformed into a digital koi pond. The koi weren’t real, but the way they moved and shimmered in the water felt eerily lifelike—like we were part of a living painting. It was surreal, peaceful, and completely mesmerizing. You’ll want at least three hours here to fully immerse yourself in everything it has to offer.
From exploring centuries-old traditions to sharing laughter over sizzling wagyu, and finally losing ourselves in a digital dreamscape, February 16th was packed with unforgettable moments. It was a day that captured the essence of Japan in every sense—and a memory I’ll carry with me forever.
Big thanks to Nik for making the day so special. If every trip has that one perfect day, this was ours. -John
Sounds absolutely amazing. Your writing and story telling skills made me feel as if I were there.
So happy you were able to spend time with Nik!