The end of the year has a way of making people rush.
Everyone starts talking about what’s next — goals, plans, resolutions, big ideas for the year ahead. But as I look toward 2026, I find myself moving in the opposite direction. Instead of speeding up, I keep thinking about slowing down. And once again, that instinct leads me back to Japan.
Continue reading “What Japan Taught Me About Slowing Down”I returned home a few weeks ago after spending two weeks in Japan, exploring Tokyo, Osaka, and several smaller towns along the way. It was one of most incredible trips I have ever had in my four visits to the Land of the Rising Sun.
The sites, the foods, the places I experienced and the people I met along the way will always hold a special place in my heart. Makiko, Kayoka, Ittaa, Yoshie, Yoshi, Hiro, Yumi, and so many more I can’t list all made my trip incredible. From the knowledge, the care, and stories each one shared along the way made the trip one of the best I have ever taken in my entire life.
My life has not been the same since I got back to the states, with my thoughts always on Japan and missing the world I was lucky enough to live in for two weeks. A piece of my heart is still in Japan and I miss it every day.
The countdown is officially on—only 30 days until I travel to Japan! After months of planning and preparing, the trip I’ve been dreaming about is finally within reach. Japan has always held a special place in my heart after several visits, and I can’t wait to experience everything this incredible country has to offer once again.
Continue reading “The Final Countdown: One Month to Japan”Exploring Japan’s sacred sites is a unique and enriching experience, but it’s important to follow proper etiquette when visiting Shinto shrines. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to respectfully interact with shrines while embracing their traditions.
Continue reading “How to Respectfully Visit Shinto Shrines in Japan”If you’re walking through almost any city in Japan, you’ll quickly notice something unusual—something that’s missing: public trash bins. Unlike many Western cities where you’ll find garbage cans on nearly every street corner, Japan takes a different approach. So, what should you do with your trash as you explore the country?
Continue reading “Why Are There So Few Trash Bins in Japan? A Tourist’s Guide to Managing Waste”Welcome to Shibuya, Tokyo’s pulsating heart where tradition intertwines seamlessly with modernity, and every corner tells a story of vibrant urban life.
In this guide, we’ll unveil the quintessential places to explore in Shibuya, including the newest addition to its skyline, Shibuya Sky. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, prepare to be captivated by the kaleidoscope of experiences awaiting you in this dynamic district.
The lantern room from the Team Labs museum experience in Odaiba, Tokyo, Japan. Shot with an Iphone 10 (2019).
Visiting Tokyo, Japan, for the first time can be an exciting and overwhelming experience. With its bustling streets, neon signs, and rich culture, Tokyo offers an adventure around every corner. One of the essential skills for a traveler to master in this metropolis is navigating the Tokyo subway system. The subway system is efficient, extensive, and the key to unlocking the city’s treasures.
In this article, we will provide you with essential tips and information to confidently navigate the Tokyo subway system during your first visit.
Continue reading “Navigating the Tokyo Subway System: A First-Time Traveler’s Guide”
Tokyo, the bustling metropolis of Japan, is a city that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. With its expansive urban landscape, navigating Tokyo may seem like a daunting task, but fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various transportation options available, ensuring you make the most of your time in this vibrant city.
From the simplicity of walking to the efficiency of subways, the convenience of taxis, and the modern touch of Uber, we’ve got you covered.
Continue reading “Navigating Tokyo: A Comprehensive Guide to Walking, Subways, Taxis, and Uber”Japan is a country shaped by its unique customs and unwritten rules, which govern everyday activities—even something as simple as walking down the street.
For tourists, understanding and following these guidelines can help you blend in with the locals and show respect for their culture. Here are a few important rules to keep in mind during your visit to Japan.
Continue reading “Unwritten Rules of Japan: Tips for Blending in as a Tourist”Japan is renowned for its natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. However, the country is also one of the most seismically active regions in the world. If you’re planning a visit to Japan, especially to areas along the Pacific coast, it’s important to be aware of the Nankai Trough earthquake—one of the most significant seismic threats facing the country.
In this guide, we’ll explore what the Nankai Trough earthquake is, why it’s a concern, and how you, as a tourist, can prepare to stay safe during your visit.
Continue reading “Preparing for the Nankai Trough Earthquake: A Guide for Tourists”There are a lot of myths and rumors that tourists have read and heard about Japan. Here are five of them that I have seen and can shine some light on as simply just myths.
Continue reading “5 common myths about Japan”
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