Today, I’m beginning 2026 the same way I started 2025: in Japan. It’s my favorite place on the planet, and from the moment I left last time, I was already counting the days until I could return.

Once again, I’m boarding an ANA flight from LAX to Haneda—this time on one of the last remaining Star Wars–themed planes, set to retire in March 2026.

On this trip, I’m switching things up. Instead of staying exclusively at APA Hotel Roppongi Ekimae, I have multiple APA stays planned—split between Shinjuku and Roppongi Six—with my journey beginning at Ekihigashi.

And the itinerary? Like me, it’s a little unhinged – but in the best way possible.

From Showcases and concerts, to actually checking out the local bar scene, and more than a few glorious hours lost inside the labyrinth of dreams that is Tower Records.

Of course, no trip to Tokyo would be complete without returning to a few sacred favorites—quiet moments at Meiji Jingu and Toyokawa Inari, grounding stops that somehow feel like coming home every single time.

Then there’s the food—because Tokyo feeds the soul and the appetite. Mandatory visits include FamilyMart (their teriyaki chicken egg sandwiches remain undefeated), Hidaka-ya for ramen and fried rice perfection, and the always-dangerous revolving sushi temptation at Kura Sushi near Meguro Station.

Naturally, there will be another deep dive into the wonderland that is Mandarake, along with a pilgrimage to the official Sailor Moon Store—because some traditions are non-negotiable.

Needless to say, I’m excited.

There will be more from my adventures in Tokyo soon so…

Stay Tuned!