Welcome to How I Holiday, a series of travel stories and recommendations shared by friends of Urban List from Aotearoa and Australia.
Abbie Davis—AKA Mrs White—is the groovy Melbourne photographer whose kaleidoscopic photos capture life's joys, from kids in fancy dress to couples getting hitched. Naturally, she also takes a cracking travel photo. Here, the photographer shares what lights her up about travelling to Japan, alongside some colourful candid captures from a recent trip with her family.
Why is Japan special to you?
Japan has held my heart since I travelled there with the fam in September last year and May this year.
Its emphasis on kindness, patience, cleanliness and kitsch makes it a total dreamland for a gal like me.
What's a core memory you have from your last trip there?
Two come to mind instantly. One is sitting on our hotel balcony (Hoshinoya) at night viewing Mt Fuji in all its power. The stillness and the beauty made me teary—it was magic.
The other was having lunch at a food court when there was a J Pop showcase happening. Two bands dancing and singing back to the mediocre fanfare, yet still adoring giggles of around 10 girls.
Watching my Slayer-loving husband enjoying too was brilliant.
Where should people eat and drink?
7 Eleven, Lawsons and Family Mart.
Let's talk hotels. Where's a cool spot to stay?
Hatoya Hotel in Ito Shizuoka, oozes nostalgia (like a genuine time machine to the Showa-era opulence with its red carpeting and chandeliers in every corner). It’s two hours down the coast from Tokyo, with its own gaming centre and karaoke bar. It’s the place to be—or at least it used to be.
Where should you stay with the kids?
Disneyland Hotel.
If waking up every morning to an orchestral version of The Little Mermaid soundtracking a breakfast of Mickey Mouse-shaped pancakes next to a 10-month old in a Donald Duck costume and going to bed to the landscape of a literal castle with the best fireworks you can ever witness in a 5-star beauty of a building isn’t your type of party, I can’t help you.
What's the best meal you've ever had in Japan?
I'm a woman of simple tastes—a Famichiki (fried chicken piece) and Riceball from 7-Eleven suits me a treat.
What's the best event on Japan's cultural calendar?
Apart from any special Disneyland event (Halloween, Christmas), I'm a sucker for a fireworks festival and a flower tribute.
Looking for more Japan travel inspo?
19 Of The Best Cheap Eats In Japan You Can’t Miss
From Onsen Dips To Ramen Hits—Here’s The Best Things To Do In Tokyo
The Best Restaurants In Tokyo To Try In 2025
Image Credit: Abbie Davis AKA Mrs White