On each trip, I bring a small notebook or journal with details of the trip I carry around with me. On it has my train guide and walking information. I prefer not taking out maps when walking around so as much as possible I research the necessary information before taking the trip and familiarizing myself with the map and the area around the hotel when I reach the destination. I try as much as I can to figure out the train routes to take the night before. It’s usually a challenge to get used to the train system and stations when discovering a new destination. At least by having a route in mind, you’ll just need to figure out which direction or platform to find your train.  It also has important information like entry fees and must see spots.

This is also my travel journal. Since it’s always with me, it’s where I jot down thoughts and observations. I usually try to take time to write while on transit – on train rides or on plane trips. I stick entry tickets and calling cards during my trip.

In Japan, there are usually stamps in tourist destinations and several train stations. It’s a great cheap way to have a souvenir of the destination. In Shibuya, you can find stamps depicting Hachiko in the tourist information bus near the Hachiko station. In train stations, they are usually near ticketing stations.

On my travel journal kit, I bring a small pair of scissors, double sided tape, cute washi tapes, and colored pens. You’ll need to put this in your check baggage on plane rides.

#traveljournal #instax #wanderlust