Tokyo Trip 2025: Yokohama, Harry Potter Studios & Narita Temple
Among Japan enthusiasts, two subgroups emerge. The ecstatic pop-culture diehards and the mellow admirers of traditional culture. Since I grew up as the first one and now lean more to the other, I'm so glad that Tokyo can deliver both in a heartbeat.
Among Japan enthusiasts, two subgroups emerge. The ecstatic pop-culture diehards and the mellow admirers of traditional culture. Since I grew up as the first one and now lean more to the other, I'm so glad that Tokyo can deliver both in a heartbeat.
Santa Evita model in Yokohama
I know that Yokohama is a separate city, but since it's just a short ride from Tokyo, it's a popular side trip destination. The locals love baseball games at the Yokohama Stadium, and nomads stroll around Chinatown. So did we.
The local temples were pristine! All the colors were vivid, as if freshly painted. My theory was that the Chinese community in Japan tries hard to keep up with local standards. That's why heritage in Yokohama Chinatown looked better than Forbidden Palace in Beijing.
Piotrek Bodera
Most importantly, my friend Santa Evita showed us around in Yokohama. As a professional model, she knows a thing or two about esthetics. Therefore, together with my partner, we enjoyed strolling along the coast, sharing stories and tasting treats.
Harry Potter with my Partner
Warner Bros. Studios: Making of Harry Potter was our next destination. This pop-culture destination, while not originated in Japan, has a massive following also among the locals. Moreover, Arvina, my partner, was overjoyed to come here.
The Studios weren't a theme park, but rather an interactive exhibition. Movie sets were meticously recreated, inspiring a magical atmosphere. Not just for posing for a photo, but actually staging full scenes.
Therefore, we had a blast:
- having our own animated framed painting in Hogwarts shifting staircase
- escaping the dragon on a broomstick
- waving goodbye in the steam of the Hogwarts Express train
- brewing a magical potion in an iron pot
- cheering for our team in the Quiditch game
Mateusz Urbanowicz artist in Narita
Our last destination was one stop away from the Narita international airport. Most people are not even aware that this satelite city has a huge Buddhist complex. The Naritasan Shinsho-ji was our highlight during the flight layover.
This time Mateusz Urbanowicz, the Polish artist based in Tokyo, accompanied us with his family. He specializes in watercolor depictions of Japanese storefronts. Therefore, it was great to stroll around together and catch up.
Piotrek Bodera
Already the street leading from the train station is full of charming shops with local delicacies. After a tasty black sesame ice cream, we roamed around temple grounds.
Someone was performing traditional Japanese music. A bunch of pond slider turtles were resting on a rock. Mythological statues were observing us from the hill. The three-story pagoda was casting a long shadow. Lastly, the impressive sculpture of a dragon around the sword attracted visitors. These elements created an unforgettable scene. A perfect picture of Japanese traditional culture.
As our journey drew to a close, I found myself reflecting on the seamless blend of old and new that defines Tokyo and its neighbors. From the neon-lit magic of pop culture to the tranquil beauty of ancient temples, each stop offered a novel perspective and a deeper appreciation for the region’s diversity.
Whether sharing laughter with friends in bustling city streets or pausing in the quiet shade of a pagoda, I was reminded that travel is not just about the places we visit. It is about the stories and connections we gather along the way.
Discussion