Recently I was in Japan and did several Design Around the World videos so you could get a sense of the graphic design in the country.
Hope you enjoy this count down!
- Cat Bus
At the Studio Ghibli Park in Nagoya, I stumbled upon a life-sized replica of the Cat Bus from My Neighbor Totoro. Imagine my surprise when I walked into the room and found this massive, whimsical bus that my entire family could climb aboard for photos! The entire park is a treasure trove of design inspiration, full of vibrant colors and beloved characters, but the Cat Bus in the Grand Warehouse truly stole the show.
- Tokyo Station Hotel
The Tokyo Station Hotel is more than just a place to stay—it’s a masterpiece of design and architecture. Overlooking the historic train station, our room offered stunning views and the breakfast room featured breathtaking chandeliers. The hallways were adorned with beautiful artwork, making it a must-visit for any designer seeking luxurious inspiration.
- Golden temple in Kyoto
After visiting a couple of temples earlier in the day, the Golden Pavilion in Kyoto left a lasting impression with its dazzling gold leaf exterior. The surrounding grounds are equally stunning, offering multiple vantage points to take in this architectural marvel. If you’re an architecture enthusiast, this temple is a must-see. It’s even more breathtaking in person—no video can truly capture its beauty.
- Non Mickey Mouse DisneySea
We took our kids to DisneySea, and I was amazed to discover an entire world filled with characters I’d never seen before. Unlike the usual Mickey Mouse-themed attractions, this park features Mickey and Minnie’s adorable stuffed animal friends as the stars. You’ll find these beloved characters everywhere, replacing the traditional Mickey ears with something uniquely Japanese.
- Bathrooms!
This might surprise you, but the bathrooms in Japan were one of the biggest highlights of my trip! For first-time visitors, the cleanliness, design, and functionality are nothing short of astounding. From the informative signage to the high-tech bidets, every bathroom—from public restrooms to hotel facilities—was immaculately designed. Some even had stylish wallpaper and other decorative touches. It was a delightful surprise that I wasn’t expecting!
What about you? Have you been to Japan? What surprising designs or experiences did you encounter? Share your thoughts in the comments!
XOXO,
Carina
