Japan Cruise Day 1: Meet My Daughter

The big day finally arrived—and I’m officially on board the Celebrity Millennium for a 12-day cruise adventure that starts in Yokohama, Japan, and wraps up in Seoul, South Korea. My name is Siva McAteer, and I’m a travel blogger and certified travel agent bringing you along on this unforgettable journey! I’ll be sharing ALL the cruise content you crave: food, entertainment, shore excursions, port highlights, and the fun moments my husband and I experience at each of our 10 amazing ports of call. But first things first... Let’s talk about our cruise cabin! 🛏️ Inside Cabin Tour – Celebrity Millennium To save a little money (and let’s be honest, spend more on souvenirs and snacks 🍣🧋), we opted for an inside cabin—and it was totally the right choice. Here’s why: ✅ Cool and Cozy – With no window, the room stayed cool and dark, which was perfect for sleeping, especially in the hot Japanese summer. ✅ Plenty of Storage – I was surprised at how much space we had! There was under-the-bed storage for our suitcases, plus roomy closets, drawers, and shelves that kept everything organized. ✅ Refurbished Comfort – While this is one of the older ships in Celebrity’s fleet, it’s been nicely refurbished. Everything felt clean, comfy, and thoughtfully designed.

Follow me down the rabbit hole for our next Tokyo adventure—TeamLab Borderless! If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into a living, breathing piece of art, this futuristic digital art museum will blow your mind.

🍷✨ If not, let me take you along on our latest Tokyo adventure, where we stumbled upon one of the most unique dining experiences at Carmen, a cutting-edge gastrobar located in the stunning Azabudai Hills Tower Plaza.

Looking for the best place to take a Tokyo Tower photo without spending half your day waiting in line? I’ve got you covered! Hi, I’m Siva McAteer—travel blogger, content creator, and certified travel agent. My husband and I are exploring Tokyo before heading off on our 12-day Celebrity Cruise, and one of my must-see stops was the iconic Tokyo Tower. Why Tokyo Tower is a Must-See Tokyo Tower isn’t just a broadcast tower—it’s a symbol of Japan’s post-war rebirth and one of the most Instagrammable landmarks in Tokyo. Standing tall with its Eiffel Tower-inspired design and striking orange and white colors, it’s a must for any Tokyo itinerary. Yesterday, we visited Shibuya Sky for the city views, so for this stop, I was all about the architecture and finding that perfect shot. I researched the “most popular” Tokyo Tower photo spot and decided to check it out. Big mistake! 😅 When we arrived, there was a line wrapping around the block just to snap a photo on a tiny staircase. Trust me—it wasn’t worth the wait.

Winner, winner, chicken dinner! 🎉 Our Tokyo adventure just leveled up—we found our very first Japanese arcade, and it’s none other than the famous GiGO in Shinjuku. If you’ve never stepped inside a Japanese arcade, you’re in for a treat! GiGO, which stands for “Get into the Gaming Oasis,” is exactly that—a paradise for gamers, kids, and anyone who’s young at heart. Why GiGO is a Must-Visit in Shinjuku Japanese arcades are iconic, and GiGO takes things to the next level. Picture rows of bright, flashing machines, exciting prizes, and the sweet sound of people cheering when they win. From claw machines stacked with adorable kawaii plush toys to gachapon (gacha) machines that guarantee a prize every time, it’s the ultimate place to test your luck or just have some fun. The Claw Machine Challenge – Kawaii Pink Rabbit Edition I’m always up for a challenge (especially if there’s a cute prize involved). The real question was: How much am I willing to spend—and carry around with me all day? My winning strategy? Watch where other people are scoring prizes! After a few minutes of scouting, I spotted a claw machine where several players had won already. The prize? An irresistible Kawaii Pink Rabbit Plush Toy. I took my chance, and… success! 🙌 Not only did I win, but I walked out with the cutest souvenir of the day. Not a Risk-Taker? Try Gachas Instead! If claw machines aren’t your thing, don’t worry. Gachas (coin-operated capsule toy machines) are everywhere inside GiGO. The best part? You always win something. Just pop in a few coins, twist the knob, and out comes a surprise capsule toy. It’s like a mini gift every time. Where to Find GiGO Shinjuku Address: GiGO Shinjuku Kabukicho Japan, 〒160-0021 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Kabukicho, 1 Chome−21−1 第二東亜会館 １F If you’re looking for fun things to do in Tokyo, especially in Shinjuku, this arcade should be on your list. Whether you’re into gaming, collecting unique prizes, or just soaking in the lively atmosphere, GiGO is pure joy. So, what’s next on our Tokyo adventure? Stay tuned—because there’s always something exciting just around the corner!

When I daydream about Tokyo, my brain immediately jumps to neon lights, skyscrapers, and—of course—Godzilla roaring above the skyline. And guess what? That dream came to life in Shinjuku. Welcome to Shinjuku: Tokyo’s Ultimate Playground If you’re planning a trip to Japan, Shinjuku needs to be high on your list. This buzzing Tokyo neighborhood is packed—literally—with over 4,000 bars, restaurants, karaoke joints, clubs, and convenience stores. It’s like a mini city within a city. And yes, we saw that famous 3D cat billboard! Located near Shinjuku Station, this adorable illusionist feline pops out of the screen like it's watching over the bustling crowd. It’s a super cute and completely free photo op you have to see in person. Don Quijote Shinjuku Kabukicho: The Ultimate Treasure Hunt Let’s talk about Don Quijote (aka “Donki”)—a must-visit convenience store on steroids. This place is not your average corner shop. The Shinjuku Kabukicho location has five floors, including a basement, and it’s JAM-PACKED with everything from: Japanese snacks and candy 🍬 Souvenirs (great for your “I went to Japan” haul) 🎁 Cosmetics and skincare 💄 Toys and quirky gadgets 🧸 Even electronics and luxury items like designer bags! 👜 Pro tip: take your time here. It’s chaotic in the best way, and you’ll definitely uncover some hidden gems. 📍 Don Quijote Shinjuku Kabukicho Located on: Godzilla Road 🗺 Address: 1 Chome-16-5 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0021, Japan Meet Godzilla—For Free! Just steps from Don Quijote is one of the coolest free attractions in Tokyo: the life-sized Godzilla head perched on top of the Toho Building. Seriously, this thing is huge and makes for a legendary photo backdrop. But wait—it gets better. Every hour, on the hour from 12 PM to 8 PM, Godzilla comes to life during the “Awakening” event! You’ll hear the roar, see flashing lights, and feel like Tokyo’s most iconic kaiju is about to come crashing through the skyline. It’s part theme park, part movie magic, and completely unforgettable. 📍 Godzilla Head Located at: Shinjuku Toho Building 🗺 Address: 1 Chome-19 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0021, Japan Final Thoughts: Why Shinjuku Should Be on Every Tokyo Itinerary Whether you're a pop culture nerd, a foodie, a shopaholic, or just want to feel the electric pulse of Tokyo, Shinjuku delivers. Between the bright lights, the Don Quijote madness, and the roaring Godzilla spectacle, it’s a full-on sensory adventure. So grab your camera, your yen, and your sense of adventure—Shinjuku is calling.

Welcome back, fellow travelers and Tokyo dreamers! Okay—pause everything—because we have to talk about the 3D cat in Shinjuku. Yes, you read that right. There’s a giant, realistic 3D cat lounging, stretching, and meowing from a billboard in one of Tokyo’s busiest neighborhoods. And trust me, it’s every bit as magical, surreal, and kawaii as it sounds! What Is the 3D Cat in Shinjuku? The “3D Cat Shinjuku” is a viral digital billboard located at the Cross Shinjuku Vision building, right near the East Exit of Shinjuku Station. This eye-catching feline graces the corner of the building in full 3D glory, purring, yawning, and occasionally peeking curiously at the crowd below. It's not just a gimmick—it’s a legit work of digital art that stops people in their tracks. 📍 Exact Location: 1F-3F, Cross新宿ビル, 3 Chome-23-18, Shinjuku, 160-0022 Tokyo, Japan When Can You See It? The 3D cat animations run from 7:00 AM to 1:00 AM daily. So whether you're an early riser chasing sunrises or a night owl exploring Tokyo's neon nightlife, there’s a good chance you’ll catch a show. And if you miss one? No worries—just hang out nearby and another will be playing soon! Why It’s Worth the Stop Even though it’s technically “just a billboard,” this playful feline display is so much more than an ad. It’s a free attraction, an iconic photo-op, and honestly, a little piece of modern Tokyo magic. It’s one of those things that feels straight out of a sci-fi movie but is completely real and happening right above your head! My Experience Seeing it online is cool, sure—but seeing it in person? Unforgettable. I was totally mesmerized! It was one of those bucket list items I had been dreaming about, and crossing it off felt amazing. The realism, the detail, the unexpected charm of it all—it’s just so super cool! Add It to Your Tokyo Itinerary 🗾 If you’re planning a trip to Japan, make sure to carve out time for Shinjuku, and specifically, for this 3D cat experience. With so many free things to do in Tokyo, this one tops the list for being creative, memorable, and completely unique. Have you seen the 3D cat in Shinjuku yet? Let me know in the comments or share your photos—I’d love to see them! Until next adventure, 🧳🐾

If you ever find yourself wandering through the buzzing heart of Shinjuku, Tokyo, do yourself a favor and make your way to Omoide Yokocho — also lovingly known as Memory Lane. This narrow, lantern-lit alley is like stepping into a time capsule. Think post-war Japan, cozy food stalls, the delicious smell of grilled skewers in the air, and an atmosphere that’s both nostalgic and incredibly warm. Step Into the Past at Omoide Yokocho Tucked away in a corner of Shinjuku, Omoide Yokocho is a must-see for foodies and cultural explorers alike. It’s famous for its authentic vibes, jam-packed izakayas (Japanese pubs), and the mouthwatering scent of yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) sizzling over charcoal. The alley is lined with tiny eateries, each offering something unique — from savory ramen to classic Japanese comfort foods. This is local Tokyo dining at its finest. It’s the kind of place where you squeeze into a seat, rub elbows with strangers, and leave full — both in belly and spirit. 📍 Address: 1 Chome-2 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan Fast Forward to the Future — Hello, Giant Cat! After soaking up the old-school vibes of Omoide Yokocho, we hit fast forward and jumped straight into the future by heading to the Cross Shinjuku Vision building. If you haven’t seen this yet, it’s home to one of Tokyo’s most famous residents: a massive 3D cat! When we stopped by, this giant feline was napping (yes, even virtual cats need rest), but stick around — the full animation show is a must-watch and changes throughout the day. It’s such a fun contrast to the retro charm of Memory Lane, and it perfectly captures the blend of old and new that Tokyo does so well. Final Thoughts Whether you’re chasing history through the alleyways of Omoide Yokocho or marveling at high-tech wonders like the Cross Shinjuku Cat, this part of Tokyo is bursting with unforgettable experiences. If you’re planning a trip to Japan, make sure to add this stop to your Tokyo itinerary. Great food, good vibes, and a little cat magic? Yes, please! Stay tuned for the next adventure! ✈️

Yes—we finally made it to Shinjuku , and you know what time it is… RAMEN TIME! 🥢 First thing in the morning, before all the sightseeing and adventuring, our stomachs were growling, and I was on a mission for a hot, slurp-worthy bowl of noodles. We did the responsible thing—Googled some top ramen spots. But guess what? The lines were crazy long—we’re talking out-the-door, tourist-packed, hangry-level long. 😩 So we made the executive decision to skip the lines and keep it moving. That’s when we stumbled upon Fukushin , and let me just say: what a win! 🎉 Fukushin is actually a popular Chinese restaurant chain in Japan, known for its delicious ramen and wallet-friendly set meals. Yup, affordable AND tasty. Double win. Oh—and did I mention they had cold beer on the menu? That sealed the deal. 🍺 The vibe was super relaxed, totally local, and had this cool old-school diner energy. The service was quick and polite, the place was sparkling clean, and most importantly, we weren’t paying crazy tourist prices. If you're ever in Shinjuku and craving a no-fuss, satisfying ramen experience without the wait, Fukushin is your spot. Check out the address below and save it for your foodie map! 🗺️ 📍 Fukushin Japan, 〒160-0023 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Nishishinjuku, 7 Chome−9−14 第一 江戸金ビル １F  "Itadakimasu!" 🙏