Siblings, Sushi, and Smiles: Aishwarya Salapura’s Japan Getaway with Thrillophilia
If someone had told me a few years ago that I would be walking through the neon-lit streets of Tokyo with my younger brother, Akshaya, I probably would have laughed. Life had always been full of responsibilities, and somehow, our sibling conversations had become limited to quick chats between meetings and classes. But 2025 was different, as this was our time.
As we stepped out of the Narita Airport, it felt surreal. Japanese signs, bustling travellers, and the gentle hum of announcements created exciting chaos. A friendly guide from Thrillophilia greeted us with a warm smile and a polite bow. I caught Akshaya’s amused smile at the first taste of Japanese hospitality.
While driving through Tokyo to our hotel, I watched the cityscape, including tall skyscrapers, shimmering billboards, and crowded pedestrian crossings, pass by.
That evening, we wandered through the famous scramble crossing of Shibuya and grabbed some ramen from a tiny corner shop.
The Hidden Corners of Tokyo
The next few days were blissfully unplanned. We spent mornings wandering through Ueno Park, afternoons navigating the endless streets of Akihabara, and evenings people-watching in Harajuku. Somewhere between struggling to order sushi through Google Translate and exploring the quiet serenity of Meiji Shrine, we discovered ease.
With a wide-eyed curiosity, Akshaya pulled me into every gaming arcade and quirky shop. In turn, I dragged him into tiny cafes where we shared fluffy Japanese pancakes and matcha lattes. There was something liberating about having nowhere we had to be and simply following wherever the day led us.
One night, we came across a karaoke bar in Shinjuku. I hesitated, but Akshaya gave me that mischievous look and said, “Come on, when will we do this again?” Half an hour later, we were singing old Bollywood songs, off-key and laughing till our sides hurt. On the other hand, a few locals clapped along while being completely entertained by our sibling duet.
We Were Kids Again in Disneyland
Our fourth day was one we had been looking forward to for months - Tokyo Disneyland. I will admit that I was as excited as Akshaya, maybe more. Stepping into the park felt like going back to childhood.
We ran from ride to ride, posed with Mickey Mouse, and shamelessly wore matching Mickey ear headbands. While sitting in front of Cinderella’s Castle watching the evening parade, I looked at my brother. His face lit up with happiness and pure joy.
“This is the best day of the trip so far,” he said, holding a churro like a victory trophy.
And honestly, I agreed.
Osaka’s Street Foods and Midnight Talks
The next day, we boarded the Shinkansen to Osaka. That bullet train ride is something I will never forget. We watched the landscape of rice fields, distant mountains, and sleepy towns pass by. Moreover, we shared a bento box and talked about everything and nothing.
Osaka welcomed us with a more vibrant vibe than Tokyo. We wandered through the neon jungle of Dotonbori and tried takoyaki from a street vendor.
Later, we talked till past midnight in our cosy Osaka hotel about our dreams, fears, and plans.
Back to Tokyo
The next morning, we were back on the Shinkansen to Tokyo. This time, it felt calmer. We did not feel the need to capture every second on our phones. Instead, we just watched the towns roll by and enjoyed the quiet understanding between us.
At Tokyo Station, we stood for a while to watch the organised chaos of trains arriving and departing. Akshaya said, “This place feels alive, doesn’t it?” I nodded.
In the evening, we strolled through the quiet lanes of Asakusa and visited the Sensoji Temple. I paused for a second and soaked in the peace of the place.
The Last Morning
Our last morning in Tokyo felt bittersweet. As I sipped my coffee and packed my suitcase, I realised that this trip was all about reconnecting with my little brother. In the rush of life, we had forgotten how to simply be together.
At the airport, waiting for our flight, Akshaya looked at me and said, “Let’s not wait so long for our next trip, okay?”
I smiled. “Next time, you plan it.”
And just like that, our Japanese adventure came to an end, but a voice in my heart told me that it was only the beginning of many more to come.
Read More: Thrillophilia Japan Reviews