first time visit to tokyo

Asia | International Travel | Japan | Travel

Tokyo Travel Diaries: Gotokuji and Shimokitazawa – Lucky Cats and Vintage Shopping
Byemfletche January 10, 2026January 27, 2026

On our 2nd full day in Tokyo we combined visits to Gotukuji and Shimokitazawa with a digital art experience at teamLab Borderless. And even a first visit to the legendary Japanese 7/11

Read More Tokyo Travel Diaries: Gotokuji and Shimokitazawa – Lucky Cats and Vintage Shopping
International Travel | Japan | Travel

Tokyo Travel Diaries: Arriving in Tokyo and Exploring Shinjuku, Shibuya and Asakusa
Byemfletche December 20, 2025February 19, 2026

It’s our first evening and full day in Tokyo. We’re jetlagged, we’re overwhelmed and we’re not sure if we’ll ever find our way out of Shinjuku station. Welcome to Japan.

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Alright bab?

I’m Emmalene, a forty-something born and bred Brummie. Married to Chris. AKA Mr Fletche, taker of photographs, driver abroad and long-suffering travel companion.

I’m a big advocate of eating, drinking and supporting local independent businesses.

But travel is my passion. Simple, easy travel. Here you’ll find how to cram all the sights into a weekend city break. Accidental hikes. Travel fails. Honest rambling travel diaries. Where to find craft beer, gin and street food.

We fit travel around full-time jobs, making the most of weekends, Bank Holidays and maximising those precious annual leave days!

Apart from travel, I love to read books, listen to music, drink gin and visit the theatre.

I always love to hear what you think so please like, comment or share!

Happy travelling…home and abroad!

Emmalene, A Brummie Home and Abroad