Honest thoughts on Japan after my first visit

First time in Japan and I tried to approach it with open eyes rather than preconceptions. Tokyo was the base and a good one — central, manageable, and with strong food options including the best matcha everything I've ever had. Hiroshima Peace Memorial was the big set piece and fully justified the trip.

Two things worth knowing: Golden Week crowds, which is more of a factor than some guides acknowledge. But also: unique blend of ancient and ultra-modern, which I'd never read about and turned out to be a genuine pleasure. Solid first impression — I'd return.