The most populated yet livable city in the world
Tokyo, home to over 14 million people, yet when we were there for Christmas break, we felt a sense of community, safety, and order like no other cities we have ever visited before. Lost in translation at times? Yes. Overwhelmed by the culture shock some days? Of course. Will we go back in a heartbeat? Absolutely, you tell me when.
I had heard quite a few American travel YouTubers say that Japan is their favorite travel destination, especially the ones with little kids can’t stop praising the country. I couldn’t help but wonder, a place so far away from mainland USA, with drastically different language, culture, and cuisines—how could it be young parents’ favorite travel destination? My trip with my family answered all my questions and had both Gabriel and I say to many of our friends afterwards that Japan is our favorite country to travel with Freddy.
Tokyo is the perfect mix of tradition and modernity. The blinding billboards at Shibuya Crossing make you feel like Japanese people live in 2050, while the faithful worshipers at Senso-ji Temple can traverse you back to Meiji Restoration. To travel is to gain unique experiences and perspectives—Tokyo will do that for you. It is so different than anything you had come to know in the western world. At the same time, traveling with small children should be adventurous not risky. Given Japan’s infrastructure, you know that if you or your little ones fall ill, there is world-class healthcare for you to access.
We love Seattle for its urban lifestyle, and we admire Tokyo for taking it to another level. Tokyo was designed for its citizens, and that’s why despite being populated, you don’t feel over-crowded. In Tokyo, we never experienced the type of traffic jam we experience here in the US—that’s because more than half of Tokyo residents use public transportation—it’s clean, safe, and reliable—we took the subway during their rush hour and we experienced how comfortable and efficient the system is first hand. Even though Japan has some of the most well-known automobile brands in the world, they didn’t build Japanese cities for Toyota or Honda—they built it for their people. We wish more American cities can learn from Tokyo when it comes to residents’ user experience.
Like any major metropolis in the world, Tokyo has many areas/districts with such distinct vibes where you almost feel like you are in a different part of Japan. Having said that, everyone can find their own favorite spot in Tokyo. While you are enjoying your favorite section of the city, it’s always good to know that the next best destination is just a quick subway ride away.
It’s been said that when you travel, you always take something back with you. After we came back to Seattle from Tokyo, I constantly think about the meaning of design, craftsmanship, and creativity. Those also happen to be elements that drive me as an active citizen, mother, entrepreneur, and digital creator. For that, I will always be grateful for Tokyo—and until we meet again.
