City ❀ Country ❀ Beach
A visit to Tokyo Tower is a must if you’re visiting Tokyo for the first time. It resembles the Eiffel Tower in which you can visit the observation decks. However, Tokyo Tower is the tallest tower in the world making it a popular tourist spot! …
If you’re a Disney fan and contemplating whether to visit Tokyo DisneySea because you think it’s similar to Tokyo Disneyland or any other Disney park you’ve been to, you’re wrong. Tokyo DisneySea is like no other theme park I’ve ever been to. That’s saying a …
If you’re planning on visiting Tokyo Disneyland I am so excited for you because you’re in for a HUGE treat! I have been to Disneyland in California, Walt Disney World in Orlando (where we go the most often) and Tokyo Disneyland. I have to say that Tokyo Disneyland is an amazing and unique park in comparison to all the others. And, if you’re visiting Japan for the first time, make sure you don’t miss visiting Tokyo Disneyland because I was in Paris twice and I regret not visiting Disneyland in Paris. But, maybe we’ll go back one day.
Reserving your tickets is a straightforward process, but there are a few key details to keep in mind to ensure a smooth experience when visiting Tokyo Disneyland. Tickets can be purchased through the official Tokyo Disney Resort Online Reservations & Tickets website or via the Tokyo Disney Resort App. Also, make sure that you utilize the Tokyo Disney Resort app once you’re in the park to get all the latest wait times & ride reservations. It’s important to note that ticket booths at the park are currently closed, so online purchase is the primary method for securing your admission. Please check ahead as this may change at any time.
In case you encounter issues with international credit cards on the official site (and we have heard of this happening, but we didn’t have any problems here in the U.S.A.), third-party platforms like Klook are available as alternatives. These platforms provide QR codes that can be scanned into the Tokyo Disney Resort App, facilitating park entry.
Transportation to and from the park is very easy because Tokyo has a wonderful subway system. However, if your hotel stay is anywhere near the Maihama or Bayside Station, you will be in the heart of the entire Disney atmosphere because you can literally walk to the entrance of Disneyland. Our hotel can be seen from Bayside Station. We stayed at the fabulous Hilton Tokyo Bay.
The monorail at these stations have large Mickey windows & Mickey grab handles if you’re standing making it a whimsical & fun start and end to your Disney day!
Getting in line is easy, but be ready for VERY long lines. The lines do move quickly, which is the opposite of Tokyo DisneySea. However, people here are accustomed to sitting down and waiting on what they call Tatami mats. They bring their own. Tatami mats are just a clean way to sit on the floor using a floor covering. Many come in different styles & colors.
The afternoon parade is truly special! All the songs are in Japanese, but the magic still is still there so don’t let that fade your opinion to not watch. All of your favorite characters will make an appearance!
Blue Bayou Restaurant, is a gorgeous restaurant overlooking the Pirates of the Caribbean. They serve delicious French and Creole-style dishes.
Shop my shirt “Live Like There’s No Midnight.”
The castle is always the heart of every Disney park, right? It’s the central meeting place. It’s your home away from home. It is after all Cinderella’s living quarters. Every castle at each Magic Kingdom park around the world is unique in its own way!
All the rides are Tokyo Disneyland are fun. I’m highlighting these four rides because we either don’t have them at Walt Disney World, where we go most often, or they stood out in a special way in Tokyo. My ultimate favorite ride at Tokyo Disneyland was Enchanted Tales of Beauty & The Beast!!! If you go to Tokyo Disneyland, DON’T miss this one!
If you know me well, you know that Winnie the Pooh is my favorite Disney character. This ride did not disappoint!
I have to say that I have never seen the Haunted Mansion decorated as The Nightmare Before Christmas. It…was…AMAZING!!! We went in early October so it was perfect!
We don’t have a Monsters Inc. ride in Orlando, so this was super cute.
These are some more rides that we went on. The Baymax ride was THE happiest one! It just makes you feel happy. It’s a lot of fun, too! Here in Tokyo Disneyland, you can also ride a canoe around Tom Sawyer’s island. But, we skipped that because that seemed like work.
So, if you’re planning on visiting Tokyo Disneyland I am so excited for you because you really are in for a HUGE treat! And when you go, let me know what was your favorite part of it all!
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Here We Go! I am here to provide you some first time Japan travel tips based on our family experience. We hope you enjoy your vacation like we did! Our adventure started at the end of September. We left our quiet home in Florida to …
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Hilton Tokyo Bay is a beautiful & wonderfully located unofficial Disney resort located only a shuttle away from Tokyo Disneyland. That is one of the main reasons why we decided to stay here because we are huge Disney fans. In addition, it’s easy access via the subway system into central Tokyo for sightseeing. We always research reviews prior to booking any place, so we also did our due diligence and found that many people were very satisfied with Hilton Tokyo Bay. That gave us great confidence to book.
Now that I’ve mentioned why we chose this resort, let me show you why we loved our stay!
It always starts with first impressions, right? Well, this was no different. As we walk in we see the lobby area and it is gorgeous! To our right is a Disney store! The prices were comparable to inside the parks, but it makes it very convenient for last minute souvenirs.
As we go to our rooms, we booked two adjoining rooms but I only took video of our room not our sons in which they had two twin beds in theirs, we were pleasantly surprised by the nice welcome note and chocolates.
In dropping off our luggage in our rooms, I noticed how clean the rooms were. That is something I always look for first when entering hotel rooms. Overall, Japan is an extremely clean & respectful country. I will speak of that more in upcoming posts about our adventure in Japan! There were some cool features that we had never seen before, but were told about prior to our trip, specifically the many toilet buttons.
The view from our rooms were fantastic! There were some cloudy days, but that didn’t diminish the beauty of this resort’s location. We could see Mt. Fuji from our rooms!
Our rooms also came with complimentary use of pajamas & slippers. How comfy!
As we head down to check out the rest of what Hilton Tokyo Bay has to offer, we came across some wedding information. Did you know that they can cater to every part of your wedding? How romantic!
Hilton Tokyo Bay also provides a laundry room making it even better for you because you can pack a lot less. Just make sure you get the proper change from the lobby. A vending machine is there as well. However, I did find that the dryers were only capable of holding a very small load (like 3 pairs of jeans or 5 shirts) in order to dry thoroughly the first time.
I woke up very early in the morning one day to explore the pool area. No one was there yet and it was quiet. I found the pool area nice, but small. I think I found it small because I’m so used to the huge pool areas in Orlando. Japan has limited space, but they make the best of it.
Now, let’s talk about the restaurants and food at Hilton Tokyo Bay. This was my favorite part because I’m such a foodie! The resort has 2 areas for breakfast buffet, among other specialty restaurants, and they both served the same things. Our favorite was the Forest Garden.
My favorite dish was the corn soup. It was outstanding!!! I had never tasted anything like this and if I could have taken some home, I would have. I went as far as trying to replicate an authentic recipe I found online, but it didn’t even come close. If you see this on the menu or breakfast buffet while at Hilton Tokyo Bay, you must try it!
One other thing I loved about their breakfast buffet is that if the food has one of the main 7 allergens recognized in Japan, they will make it known. It’s not cross contamination friendly, but it will be listed if the actual food is made with it. This is true in many restaurants in Japan, specifically Tokyo. If it is not made known to you while traveling to restaurants in Japan, make sure you have a translated copy of the allergies you have and show it to your host/waiter BEFORE you order.
Just be aware that they may or may not be able to cater to you. Japan mainly does not have an food allergen problem, but they have catered to many tourists throughout the years and have been very good at trying their best to accommodate many who do have food allergens. One of our sons is gluten intolerant, so we made it a point to bring our own foods/snack from the U.S., just in case.
The 7 main food allergens recognized in Japan are: egg, milk, wheat, peanut, buckwheat, shrimp, and crab.
I hope you enjoyed reading about our experience at Hilton Tokyo Bay located at 1-8 Maihama, Urayasu, Chiba 279-0031, Japan. Check out everything they have to offer and we hope you enjoy your stay! Stay tuned for more articles coming soon of our Japan family adventure!
If you have a specific question about this post, please email me.
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Visiting Hawaii is something I have always wanted to do and in 2011 it became a reality. I am now in LOVE with Hawaii and all things that have to do with Hawaii. Oahu Revisited is an article consisting of four things that we missed …
Kauai, often called the “Garden Isle,” is a destination brimming with natural beauty and cultural heritage. Among its many attractions, some stand out for their historical significance, stunning landscapes, and unique experiences. Let’s delve into some of the island’s highlights and create a Kauai itinerary. From the James Cook Monument to the lush gardens and scenic vistas, these are some reasons that make Kauai a must-visit destination.
The James Cook Monument on Kauai commemorates the famous British explorer Captain James Cook, who is credited with the European discovery of the Hawaiian Islands in 1778. Located near the town of Waimea, this monument marks the spot where Cook first landed on the island. While the original monument erected in the late 19th century, the site remains a significant historical landmark. Visitors can reflect on the island’s rich history and the pivotal moment of cross-cultural contact that Cook’s arrival represents.
A luau in Kauai is a magical experience. It is a must for your Kauai itinerary! As the sun sets over the lush landscape, the evening begins with the rhythmic beats of traditional Hawaiian music, inviting guests to unwind and embrace the island’s aloha spirit. Dancers adorned in vibrant, flowing costumes take the stage. Their graceful hula movements tell ancient stories of love, nature, and legend. Next, the night progresses with an array of performances while you eat a delicious traditional Hawaiian buffet. From the mesmerizing fire knife dance to soulful chants, each act weaving a narrative that celebrates the island’s history and traditions.
Our Kauai itinerary continues into Princeville. It is situated on the North Shore of Kauai, a picturesque resort community known for its luxurious accommodations and stunning vistas. Overlooking Hanalei Bay, Princeville offers a blend of upscale living and natural beauty. The area is home to world-class golf courses, pristine beaches, and a variety of outdoor activities. The Princeville Botanical Gardens is located here and that’s where you can explore tropical flora, taste fresh fruit, and learn about traditional Hawaiian medicinal plants.
Just a short drive from Princeville is the charming town of Hanalei. Nestled in a lush valley, Hanalei is known for its crescent-shaped bay, historic buildings, and vibrant community. Hanalei Bay is perfect for swimming, surfing, and paddleboarding, with the stunning backdrop of mountains. The town itself boasts an array of shops, galleries, and restaurants, offering everything from local crafts to gourmet dining. The Hanalei Pier, a favorite spot for fishing and picnicking, provides a panoramic view of the bay and surrounding mountains.
Kīlauea Point Wildlife Refuge, located on the northern shore of Kauai and only a 20 minute drive from Hanalei Pier, is a breathtaking sanctuary that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region. Established in 1985, this refuge is a critical habitat for a variety of seabirds, including the endangered Hawaiian goose (nēnē) and the Laysan albatross. The dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation of Kīlauea Point provide an ideal nesting ground for these birds, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.
In addition to its avian residents, the refuge is also home to native plants and serves as a vantage point for spotting marine life such as humpback whales (which we saw), spinner dolphins, and Hawaiian monk seals. The centerpiece of the refuge is the historic Kīlauea Lighthouse, which not only adds to the scenic charm of the area but also offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding coastline. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply someone looking to experience the serene beauty of Kauai, Kīlauea Point Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit destination to your Kauai itinerary.
On the sunny South Shore of Kauai lies The Point at Poipu, a luxurious oceanfront resort owned by Hilton. This is where we made our home away from home. This tranquil retreat offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and easy access to some of the island’s best beaches. Guests can enjoy spacious accommodations, an awesome pool, and a variety of recreational activities.
Nearby, Poipu Beach Park is ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and spotting Hawaiian monk seals & large tortoises. Also, the resort’s location makes it a convenient base for exploring other attractions on the South Shore. Exploring the South Shore further would be an additional plus if you can fit it into your Kauai itinerary.
Kalapaki Joe’s is a perfect nearby spot for great food. It is a lively spot in Kauai known for its relaxed atmosphere and island-style sports bar vibe. It’s a favorite for both locals and visitors who are looking to enjoy a casual meal with a beautiful view. The restaurant offers a mix of American and Hawaiian-inspired dishes, with fresh seafood, burgers, and a variety of appetizers that are perfect for sharing. Whether you’re there to catch a game on one of the many screens or just soak in the friendly & laid-back ambiance, Kalapaki Joe’s offers a quintessentially Hawaiian dining experience.
The Wailua River, the only navigable river in Hawaii, offers a unique way to explore Kauai’s lush interior. A popular activity is the Wailua River Cruise, which takes visitors on a leisurely journey up the river to the Fern Grotto. This natural amphitheater, covered in tropical ferns, has been a favorite spot for weddings and special events. The river cruise includes a guided tour with insights into Hawaiian legends and the natural history of the area. Upon arrival at the Fern Grotto, visitors are treated to a traditional Hawaiian musical performance and a chance to explore the scenic surroundings with your guides. But please don’t ever climb & explore it on your own as it is disrespectful to the Hawaiian locals.
For those seeking adventure, the Holo Holo Snorkeling Tour offers an unforgettable experience exploring the marine wonders around Kauai. Departing from Port Allen, these tours typically include stops at the Na Pali Coast and the neighboring island of Niihau. The crystal-clear waters around these areas are swarming with marine life, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling. Guests can expect to see colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and possibly even dolphins and sea turtles. In our case, we saw dolphins & whales! The tour also provides stunning views of the rugged coastline and sea cliffs of the Na Pali Coast, accessible only by sea. This tour that we took was called the Niihau + Napali 7 hour Super Tour. It started before sunrise until late afternoon. If you’re prone to motion sickness, take something!
Often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” Waimea Canyon is a breathtaking natural wonder. The Waimea Canyon Lookout offers panoramic views of the canyon’s deep valleys, sharp ridges, and vibrant red and green hues. This vast canyon stretches 14 miles long, one mile wide, and more than 3,600 feet deep. Visitors can drive to several lookout points or explore the many hiking trails that provide different perspectives of this geological marvel. The Canyon Trail to Waipoo Falls is a popular hike that rewards trekkers with a beautiful waterfall and expansive views.
Wailua Falls, located near Lihue, is one of Kauai’s most accessible and picturesque waterfalls. Plunging 80 feet into a pool below, the falls are easily viewed from a nearby lookout point. Early morning visits often reveal a rainbow in the mist, adding to the falls enchanting beauty. For the more adventurous, a steep and slippery trail leads down to the base of the falls, offering a closer look and a chance to swim in the refreshing waters. And, interestingly enough, Wailua Falls is featured in the opening credits of the original TV series “Fantasy Island.”
Kauai’s agricultural richness is showcased at Lydgate Farms, where visitors can tour the chocolate factory and learn about the island’s cacao cultivation. This family-owned farm offers an immersive experience, guiding guests through the process of growing cacao, harvesting the pods, and crafting chocolate. The tour includes tastings of various chocolates and tropical fruits grown on the farm, providing a delightful culinary experience. And, of course, this was our favorite part! Lydgate Farms is committed to sustainable farming practices, making it a great example of eco-friendly agriculture on Kauai. Chocolates are for sale, if you want to take some back home! And, oh did we bring plenty of chocolate home for us!
Your Kauai itinerary continues with The National Tropical Botanical Garden (NTBG) which encompasses several gardens on Kauai. It includes the Allerton Garden and McBryde Garden on the South Shore. These gardens are dedicated to the conservation of tropical plants and the preservation of natural habitats. The Allerton Garden, once a private estate, features stunning landscapes, water features, and sculptures. The McBryde Garden, located in the Lawai Valley, is home to the largest collection of native Hawaiian flora in the world. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the diverse plant species, Hawaiian culture, and the ongoing conservation efforts. If you’re familiar with the movie franchise “Jurassic Park,” one of the scenes was filmed here with the giant trees in the background!
Kauai is a destination that offers something for every traveler. Whether it’s historical landmarks or charming towns, many are breathtaking natural wonders. Every piece of our Kauai itinerary provides unique experiences that highlight the island’s beauty and cultural richness. Kauai promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you enchanted by its charm and splendor.
If you have a specific question about this post, please email me.
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