Tokyo, Japan

Dream Excursion to Tokyo

Yi-lik is a gentle and pleasant 9-year-old boy. He was diagnosed at birth with Tetralogy of Fallot, a congenital heart defect. At a very young age, he underwent several major heart operations. As the years went by, his condition became worse. For walking long distance, he needs to use wheelchair to avoid being out of breath. This illness limits his participation in many activities. Yi-lik remains positive and is able to focus on the things that he can do.

Yi-lik has heard so much about Japan that it is his dream to visit this favourite traveling destination of Hong Kong people. Thus, he was very certain of what he wanted for his wish – a first-hand experience of Japan. 

His dream excursion took place at the end of January 2011, during the Chinese New Year Holidays. The night before his trip, Yi-lik was too excited to sleep but had no problem getting up early the next day, with no sign of tiredness. He woke up with a sunny smile. While his parents checked in at the airline counter, he was busily playing photographer to record the highlights of his departure day.

The 4-hour flight passed quickly. Yi-lik and his parents arrived at Narita Airport in Tokyo, spending their first night at Tokyo Disney Resort. This gave them an easy access to Tokyo Disney Sea the following day. On the second day, Yi-lik had a great time at the theme park watching fantastic parades and taking photos with different Disney Characters. To his great surprise, he saw his first snow at the park. The snow did not last long, but it was a cheerful and treasured memory for Yi-lik.

On the third day, they left the city by train to go to Hakone, famous for its hot springs and spectacular scenery. This time, Yi-lik was going to explore the different aspect of Japan. He and his parents were staying at a traditional Japanese style hotel. The interior design of the room, the meals being served to them in their room and the beautiful presentation of the food were all new to Yi-lik. Everything seemed to be unique and interesting. After a good night’s sleep, with renewed energy he was ready to explore Hakone. The natural beauty of Mount Fuji made a deep impression on him. On his last day, he fully took the opportunity to pay a visit to the popular tourist attractions in the city, including the Tsukiji Market, a famous wholesale fish and seafood market, and Asakusa, and bought souvenirs for his friends and relatives. 

At the end of his trip, Yi-lik returned Hong Kong tired but beaming. As he wished, the excursion to Tokyo was truly an eye-opener for him. What a wonderful way to celebrate the Chinese New Year!