Wrapping Up Our Last Vacation in 2024

Wrapping up our final vacation of 2024, we reflect on what has become our favorite destination: Japan. This trip was not only an incredible journey but also a source of meaningful life lessons.

1. Unlocking New Challenges

We were initially hesitant to drive in Hokkaido during winter. However, by God’s grace, we embraced the challenge and took steps to prepare ourselves both mentally and physically. From researching suitable cars for snowy conditions to taking a crash course online and seeking advice from friends with experience, we learned how to navigate the icy roads safely. The effort was rewarding, proving that with preparation and determination, challenges can lead to growth and unforgettable experiences.

2. Perfect Timing

Throughout our trip, there were many close calls where we nearly missed transport or schedules. Yet, God’s providence ensured everything worked out perfectly. One memorable instance was when we caught a local bus from Otaru Station to Otaru Aquarium. Arriving just 15–20 minutes before departure, we managed to squeeze into the last queue. Missing that bus would have disrupted our entire plan due to long waiting times. A similar thing happened on our return journey, where the bus arrived just five minutes after we reached the stop—truly a testament to perfect timing.

3. Embrace the Weather, Enjoy the Ride

Hokkaido’s weather is famously unpredictable, alternating between bright sunny skies and heavy snowfalls. These variations impacted car and road conditions, presenting unique challenges. Instead of complaining or worrying, we chose to embrace the weather and enjoy the ride, finding beauty and adventure in every moment.

4. God’s Providence and Guardian Angels

One unforgettable incident occurred during our stay at Rusutsu. Our second son experienced chest pain in the middle of the night, just hours before our flight to Osaka. Panic set in as we called emergency responders, unsure how to handle the situation. By God’s grace, he recovered quickly, and we made it to our flight on time. This event was a profound reminder of God’s protection and the presence of guardian angels in our lives.

This Japan trip wasn’t just a vacation—it was a journey filled with challenges, gratitude, and lessons that we will carry with us into the future.

Cultural Experience in Kyoto (24 - 25 December 2024)

Kyoto is a stunning city, rich with history and culture. Its old-town charm and traditional Japanese houses, which are preserved almost everywhere, including the façade of our hotel, create a unique and timeless atmosphere.

Known for its cultural and historical significance, Kyoto is a treasure trove for those interested in ancient Japanese traditions. During this trip, we were especially intrigued by the history of the Samurai and Ninja.

Uji, the birthplace of matcha, is located just 30 minutes south of Kyoto. Although we arrived late in the day, with most shops closing around sunset, we still managed to enjoy a variety of matcha-infused treats like gyoza, takoyaki, ice cream, and, of course, Uji matcha drinks. We also brought home some exclusive matcha goodies available only in Uji.

Before flying back to Singapore, we visited the Ninja and Samurai Museum—a visit we’ll always cherish. We learned about the origins and history of these iconic figures, from their beginnings to the decline of their era during Japan's modernization in the Meiji period.

The highlight for our family was practicing ninja star throwing, and to our delight, Richie won the ninja championship game! We also dressed in samurai costumes and took memorable photos with landmark backdrops.

To wrap up our Kyoto adventure, we strolled through Gion, capturing stunning shots of traditional Japanese houses and temples while savoring matcha desserts—a perfect end to our journey before heading to the airport.

Racing in Suzuka (24 December 2024)

This stop wasn’t part of our original plan, but two weeks before our trip, we stumbled upon an Instagram post about a car racing-themed park in Suzuka, and we couldn’t resist adding it to our itinerary.

Located in Mie Prefecture, just a 1.5-hour drive from Kyoto, we arrived at the park in the morning. Unfortunately, we hadn’t made reservations for the kart challenge, which would have allowed us to race in F1-style cars.

Despite that, we thoroughly enjoyed the other attractions, including motorbike rides, roller coasters, and drifting games. Though we only spent four hours there, it felt too short—but we had to head back to Kyoto for Christmas Eve Mass.

This theme park is a must-visit for car and motor enthusiasts, offering thrilling experiences without breaking the bank. It’s also incredibly family-friendly, with sections designed for everyone, from toddlers to young adults.

Scenic Driving in Hokkaido

At first, we were quite hesitant about self-driving in Hokkaido, especially during the winter. However, we decided to embrace the challenge.

We prepared ourselves both mentally and physically, knowing that winter driving requires extra caution as weather and road conditions can change in an instant. Despite our initial fears, the journey turned out to be incredibly scenic and peaceful, offering us breathtaking views at every turn.

In the end, none of our fears came true, and we were glad we took on this challenge. The reward was an unforgettable experience along Hokkaido's stunning scenic roads.