Summer is finally here, and I’m so excited to start planning my next adventure!
If you’ve been following my travel journey, you’ll know that I spent the beginning of this year enjoying beautiful beaches, island hopping, and relaxing by the sea in Thailand. It was everything I needed at the time: sunshine, ocean views, and slow, peaceful travel days.
But this summer feels different.
Instead of another beach holiday, I’m craving something more vibrant and dynamic, like city lights, cultural streets, beautiful cafés, shopping districts, and unforgettable food experiences.
And the most exciting part?
This will be my very first time visiting both Japan and South Korea.
I’ve dreamed about exploring Tokyo’s neon streets, walking through Kyoto’s peaceful temples, shopping in Seoul’s fashion districts, and tasting authentic Japanese sushi and Korean BBQ for years. Now, that dream is finally becoming real.
Living in Hong Kong, summer holidays are also quite limited. We don’t get long summer breaks like some other countries, so I usually have to plan my trips around weekends, public holidays, and carefully scheduled annual leave. That makes every trip feel even more special, and every destination has to be chosen wisely.
This time, I want to slow down and truly experience each place rather than rush through it.
And if you are also planning to visit Japan in July, feel free to connect with me; I’d love to share ideas, tips, or even plan around the same travel season together. <3
1. Which Hotels Should I Book?
I always prefer staying at 4-5 star hotels because they are reliable, comfortable, and always in great locations.
Japan
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- The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho, a Luxury Collection Hotel
- Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Station
- Tokyo Marriott Hotel
- The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo
- JW Marriott Hotel Nara
- W Osaka
- Mitsui Garden Hotel Otemachi – Tokyo
South Korea
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- JW Marriott Hotel Seoul
- Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Myeongdong
- Josun Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seoul Gangnam
- Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Namdaemun
- Ryse, Autograph Collection
- JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa
- Avani Busan
Travel Tip: Always choose hotels close to metro or train stations. It makes everything easier and saves so much time every day.
2. Best Places to Visit in Japan & Korea
In Japan
- Tokyo
- Kyoto
- Osaka
- Nara
- Hakone
- Mount Fuji
- Kamakura
- Nikko
Best Shopping Areas in Japan (Ladies Edition)
- Ginza
- Shibuya
- Harajuku
- Omotesando
- Shinjuku
In South Korea
- Seoul
- Busan
- Jeju Island
- Gyeongju
- Suwon
- Incheon
Best Shopping Areas in Korea (Ladies Edition)
- Myeongdong
- Gangnam
- Hongdae
- Seongsu
- Starfield COEX Mall
3. Transportation Tips
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned while traveling is simple:
Always stay near a metro or MTR station.
Japan
- Stay near JR or subway stations whenever possible
- Tokyo Metro, Osaka Metro, Kyoto Subway are the most convenient networks
- Walking distance (5–10 minutes max) from a station makes a huge difference
South Korea
Seoul’s subway system is one of the easiest in the world. Stay near stations like:
- Myeongdong
- Seoul Station
- Hongik University
- Gangnam
4. What I’m Packing for Summer (Fashion & Beauty)
Since I’m not doing a beach trip this time, my wardrobe is shifting from swimwear to city-chic fashion.
Dresses & Outfits
- Linen dresses
- Floral midi dresses
- White summer dresses
- Co-ord sets
- Wide-leg trousers
Nail Colors I’m Loving
- Milky white
- Soft pink
- Nude beige
- Lavender tone
- Peach coral
- Cherry red French tips
I’m going for a clean, minimal, and elegant look that fits both Japan’s and Korea’s aesthetic styles.
5. Food I Can’t Wait to Try
Food is always one of the most exciting parts of my travels.
Japan (Must-Try Experiences) Famous / Michelin-style dishes
- Sushi omakase
- Ramen
- Tempura
- Yakitori
- Tonkatsu
Desserts I’m excited for
- Parfait
- Japanese cheesecake
- Mochi
- Taiyaki
- Kakigōri (shaved ice)
- Fluffy Pancakes
- Anmitsu
South Korea’s Famous Dishes
- Korean BBQ
- Bibimbap
- Naengmyeon (cold noodles)
Desserts I want to try
- Bingsu
- Hotteok
- Yakgwa
- Strawberry shortcake
- Salt bread
Why This Trip Feels Special
This isn’t just another vacation for me.
It’s my first time in Japan and South Korea, and I want to experience everything slowly and meaningfully from hidden cafés and quiet streets to luxury hotels, fashion districts, and unforgettable meals.
Instead of beaches this summer, I’m choosing cities that inspire me, energize me, and give me completely new memories. Before my work begins!!!
And if you’re also planning to be in Japan in July, let’s connect. I’d love to exchange travel ideas and maybe even share experiences along the way.
I can’t wait to start this journey and bring it all back here on #Life with Pinky.