Travel Highlights 2023

2023 was a year of big transitions. On a professional level, the return of foreign travelers meant we got busy again with exciting projects, and on a personal level it was the year I became a father for the first time. With a new born baby at home, that meant a lot less traveling around the country (and a lot more sleepless nights). But that doesn't mean the year ended without some memorable travel highlights.

#3: Flying the drone at Obuchi Sasaba

Back in January, Raina and I traveled to Shizuoka to film the 10 Places Around Mount Fuji video. There, not only did we gorge on delicious seafood (sashimi for every meal!), we also enjoyed some beautiful views of the jagged coastline and saw some impressive waterfalls. Finally, getting to fly the drone at the Obuchi Sasaba tea fields with the majestic Mount Fuji in the background was definitely the cherry on top.

#2: Kusatsu Onsen

Staying in Kusatsu Onsen on a two day trip was another travel highlight of 2023. Not only was it special for me because it had been 9 years since I last visited the popular hot spring resort, this trip with my wife was also the last one before we were to become parents.

#1: First family trip in Kanazawa

My top travel highlight for this year was our very first trip as a family of three in the beautiful city of Kanazawa. The close proximity of all the popular sightseeing spots made traveling with a toddler a very pleasant experience. We visited the stunning Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle as well as the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art. But the most unforgettable experience of this trip was to see the temporary teamLab exhibition at Kanazawa Castle, transporting us to a magical world of vibrant illuminations combined with unusual sounds.