Planning a Two-Day Trip with Four High School Friends in March
Ah, planning a trip with your best friends—there’s nothing quite like it, right? I remember when my high school friends and I decided to escape the hustle and bustle
of Tokyo for a quick getaway. It was March, and we were craving something magical—like a sky full of stars and maybe even some snow. Oh, and BBQ! Because what’s a trip without good food and laughter around a grill?
The Quest for Stars, Snow, and BBQ
We started our search by scrolling through endless travel blogs and Instagram posts, dreaming of cozy bungalows surrounded by nature. One place kept popping up: Yamanashi Prefecture. It’s not too far from Tokyo, and it’s famous for its clear night skies and stunning views of Mount Fuji. Plus, in March, there’s still a chance of snow in some areas—perfect for our winter-loving hearts. We found this adorable bungalow-style accommodation called Fujisan Guesthouse, which had everything we wanted: affordable prices, BBQ facilities, and a location that promised starry skies. The photos showed a charming wooden cabin surrounded by trees, and we were sold. We booked it immediately, giggling like little kids at the thought of our adventure.
The Journey There: Snacks, Laughter, and a Little Chaos
The day of the trip, we met at Shinjuku Station way too early (because, of course, we were overly excited). We stocked up on snacks for the train ride—way too many snacks, actually. I think we bought every flavor of Kit Kat Japan had to offer. By the time we arrived at Kawaguchiko Station, we were practically buzzing with sugar and anticipation. The guesthouse was a short bus ride away, and when we arrived, we were greeted by the sweetest staff member who showed us around. The bungalow was even cuter in person, with a little porch and a BBQ pit right outside. We immediately claimed our beds (after a mini pillow fight, of course) and started planning our evening.
BBQ Under the Stars (and a Few Mishaps)
We headed to a nearby supermarket to grab ingredients for our BBQ. Let me tell you, trying to decide on meat, veggies, and sauces with four hungry teenagers is no easy task. We ended up buying way too much food, but hey, better too much than too little, right? Back at the bungalow, we fired up the grill. Well, tried to fire up the grill. Turns out, none of us were exactly BBQ experts. After a few failed attempts and a lot of laughter, we finally got the coals burning. The smell of sizzling meat filled the air, and we sat around the fire, sharing stories and roasting marshmallows. It was pure bliss. As the sun set, the sky transformed into a canvas of stars. We laid out a blanket and just stared up, mesmerized. It was one of those moments where you feel so small yet so connected to everything around you. And yes, there was snow! Not a lot, but enough to make the night feel magical.
Reflections and a Little Nostalgia
Looking back, that trip was everything we needed—a break from school, a chance to bond, and a reminder of how beautiful the world can be. Sure, we overpacked snacks, struggled with the BBQ, and got a little too competitive during card games, but those imperfections made the trip unforgettable. If you’re planning a similar adventure, I highly recommend Yamanashi. It’s affordable, beautiful, and perfect for a group of friends. And if you’re lucky, you might just get that magical combination of stars and snow.
Your Turn!
Have you ever taken a trip like this with your friends? Where did you go, and what made it special? Or maybe you have tips for a perfect BBQ under the stars? Share your stories and suggestions in the comments—I’d love to hear them! 🌟
