I am going on a university graduation trip with him.
So, here’s the deal: my boyfriend (let’s call him Taro because, well, it’s Japan and it feels fitting) has been working his butt off for four years now. He’s been
dreaming about this trip for ages—our first proper getaway together since I graduated. And honestly, I’ve been dreaming about it too. I mean, who doesn’t want to celebrate surviving university with a little adventure? But here’s the catch: Taro’s work schedule is, let’s just say, not exactly flexible. He only has weekends off, which means we’re limited to either a 3-day, 2-night trip (if we leave on Friday evening) or a 2-day, 1-night trip (if we leave on Saturday). Not exactly the grand, week-long escapade I was imagining, but hey, I’ll take what I can get.
His work schedule limits our options.
Let me tell you, planning a trip around someone’s work schedule is like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded. Taro’s job is pretty demanding, and he’s always on call, so we can’t just jet off whenever we feel like it. We’ve been brainstorming destinations for weeks, but every time we think we’ve found the perfect spot, reality hits: “Wait, can we even get there in time?” One night, we were sitting on his tiny apartment floor (because, let’s be real, Tokyo apartments are not exactly spacious), surrounded by snacks and a laptop open to Google Maps. I was munching on way too many Pocky sticks (seriously, I think I ate an entire box), and Taro was scrolling through train schedules like his life depended on it. At one point, he looked up and said, “What if we just… don’t sleep?” And I laughed because, honestly, that’s the kind of chaos I’ve come to expect from him.
Looking for recommendations within a limited timeframe.
We’re looking for somewhere outside the Kanto region—somewhere that feels like a real escape from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. We’re not on a strict budget, so cost isn’t a huge concern, but time is. We need a place that’s doable within our limited timeframe but still feels special. One idea we’ve been tossing around is Hakone. It’s close enough that we can get there on a Friday evening, and it’s got everything: hot springs, stunning views of Mount Fuji (if the weather cooperates, which, let’s be honest, it might not), and those adorable little ryokans where you can wear a yukata and feel like you’re in a period drama. Plus, there’s the Hakone Open-Air Museum, which I’ve heard is amazing. But then Taro brought up Kyoto. “What if we just… go all out?” he said, his eyes lighting up. Kyoto is a bit farther, but it’s doable if we leave early on Saturday. I mean, who wouldn’t want to wander through bamboo forests, visit ancient temples, and stuff their face with matcha-flavored everything? The only downside is that it might feel a bit rushed, and I don’t want to spend the whole trip stressing about time. Another option is Kanazawa. It’s a bit underrated compared to Kyoto, but it’s got this charming old-town vibe, amazing seafood, and the Kenrokuen Garden, which is supposed to be one of the most beautiful in Japan. Plus, it’s not as crowded as some of the more touristy spots, which is a huge bonus.
Memorable moments and personal reflections.
Planning this trip has been a rollercoaster of emotions. There was the time Taro accidentally booked a hotel in the wrong city (thankfully, we caught it in time), and the time I got so excited about a ryokan with a private onsen that I almost cried. (Yes, I’m that person.) But what I’ve realized is that it’s not really about the destination—it’s about the experience. Whether we end up in Hakone, Kyoto, Kanazawa, or somewhere completely unexpected, I know it’s going to be special because we’re doing it together. And honestly, that’s all that matters. So, dear readers, I’m turning to you for help. Have you taken a weekend trip outside the Kanto region that you absolutely loved? Any hidden gems or must-see spots we should consider? Or maybe you’ve got a funny travel story of your own to share? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts! And if you’ve ever planned a trip around someone’s crazy work schedule, please tell me I’m not alone in this madness. 😅
