Matcha tea
During my visit to Kyoto, I discovered a charming matcha tea house. The ladies there graciously served me tea amidst a garden adorned with flowers. Hands down, it's my favorite matcha experience in Japan.
2019
When I first moved to Japan, I found myself in unfamiliar territory, a lost boy searching for his place and purpose. Amidst the uncertainty, one thing became clear—I wanted to document my journey through the lens of my camera. I set out with the ambitious goal of capturing as many moments as possible, using photography as a means to absorb the rich cultural tapestry surrounding me.
My knowledge of Japan was limited; sushi, samurais, and anime were the extent of my familiarity. However, armed with my camera, I embarked on a mission to explore and understand this captivating country.
The initial year proved to be the most straightforward. Every place I visited brought a sense of novelty. I embraced the joy of exploring without the fear of retracing my steps and tasting unfamiliar foods was a constant source of excitement. Regrettably, this phase was abruptly interrupted. The advent of COVID-19 brought restrictions, swiftly limiting my ability to travel freely due to regulations implemented nationwide.
Produce market
One of the things I appreciate about Japan is the abundance of mini-produce markets scattered throughout the country. Without a doubt, whenever I found myself in need of a specific vegetable, I could easily dash to any of these markets to find exactly what I was looking for. It's just one of the many perks of being in Japan.
2020
Amid the escalating COVID-19 situation, my travels in 2020 were primarily confined to local destinations. Despite the unfortunate circumstances, I made the most of my situation. Initially, every weekend, I would board the local train, exploring key stops. Being relatively new to Japan, I lacked the knowledge about available transportation options that would better my experience.
Given that I was mostly confined to the immediate area, I dedicated a significant amount of time to exploring Mijimama, and uncovering new photo-worthy spots. I also made it a point to introduce my new coworkers to a taste of Japan when they arrived, sharing the unique experiences of the local surroundings.
Despite the challenging circumstances, I made the best of my situation. Lacking a well-established network of travel companions, I remained determined to maximize my time exploring. I recognized that I had more years ahead for traveling and was eager to make the most of every opportunity during my stay.
In the fall of 2020, a sense of optimism filled the air as restrictions began to lift. Eager to embrace this newfound freedom, I embarked on journeys from Iwakuni to Kyoto, experiencing the swift pace of the Shinkansen. The thrill of rising early, hopping on a train for an hour, and then immersing myself in a full day of exploration along the scenic coastline cities was invigorating. It felt akin to breaking free from confinement and witnessing the sky after years of captivity.
Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji was truly an unforgettable experience, boasting numerous trails that wind through breathtaking landscapes. I embraced the ultimate challenge by deciding to climb the entire mountain from its base, feeling the raw power of nature with every step. Although I faced life-threatening moments, I successfully reached the summit in sixteen grueling hours, the sense of accomplishment flooding through me. I challenge anyone to take on this feat, but ensure you pack ample food for an extended hike and avoid attempting it during severe rainstorms to stay safe on this awe-inspiring journey.
Japanese castles
During my time in Japan, I found myself captivated by the abundance of castles scattered throughout the country. Strolling through the gardens en route to the towering structure at the heart of each castle, I couldn't help but ponder their historical significance. Were these fortresses symbolic representations of peace, or imposing strongholds protecting territories? Eagerly imagining the intricate strategies devised within the castle walls, my mind drifted to the era of their construction, painting vivid pictures of the past. While Japan boasts numerous castles and fascinating ruins, I had the privilege of visiting only about twelve throughout my rewarding four-year stay. I couldn't help but daydream about the possibility of returning one day to immerse myself in the grandeur of all of Japan's castles.
The elderly
I have always been impressed by the strong work ethic of the elderly population in Japan. It is not only admirable but also somewhat amusing to witness this wise group of individuals dedicated to their work, striving to provide the best for their families and upholding their honor. In contrast, in other countries, there are younger individuals complaining about being too old to work. I hold deep respect for the exceptional quality of work that these elderly individuals bring to the table at their age.
2021
Unfortunately, I didn't accomplish much in the first half of 2021 due to a personal dilemma that discouraged me from traveling. Nevertheless, I stayed local and dedicated time to refining my skills in familiar places. I focused on discovering fresh and exciting perspectives for capturing the same subjects in unique ways.
With more restrictions being lifted, In October, my friends and I spontaneously decided to visit the bustling city of Tokyo! The experience turned out to be fantastic. Our Airbnb was located in Sumida City, right next to the iconic Skytree. Arriving at night, the Skytree was a captivating sight as we searched for our weekend headquarters. Throughout our trip, we explored various prominent attractions, relishing the diverse culinary offerings and the entertainment that surrounded us.
Capturing the moments proved to be a bit challenging as I focused on enjoying the time with my friends. Consequently, I didn't take as many photos as originally intended. Fortunately, the following year, I had the opportunity to return and meticulously document the picturesque scenes.
A few years ago, I made a deliberate decision to celebrate my birthday on my own terms, free from external expectations. The following month, I embarked on a birthday adventure, exploring Fukuoka, Kyoto, and Osaka. I was on a tourist spree as I aimed to make up for lost time due to the disruptions caused by COVID-19. I filled my itinerary to the brim, eager to catch up and get back on track.
2022
2022 marked a significant milestone for me as I dedicated more effort to my photography in Japan than in any previous year. In case you’re not aware, Japan’s weather can be quite unpredictable. It swings between gloomy overcast conditions in fall and early spring to intensely hot and humid summers transitioning into the beginning of fall. However, there’s a delightful exception— a brief period in spring when the weather is pleasant, marking one of the most beautiful times of the year: the Sakura blossom season.
I have always cherished capturing the beauty of blossoms through my lens. Depending on the location in Japan, a vibrant array of pinks, purples, and whites unfolds. People from around the world journey to witness this spectacle. One of my preferred spots for photography is the Fukuoka Castle ruins. From a distance, it resembles a mountain of pink clouds, but during my hike, I was enveloped in a shower of pink petals, transforming the path ahead.
In July, I returned to Tokyo with the determination to complete my mission of fully exploring everything the vibrant city had to offer. On this visit, I revisited all the places I had missed during my previous trip, along with exploring the Minato City area where I ascended the Tokyo Tower. Little did I know that it would take a third visit to accomplish this goal truly. As an exciting addition to my Tokyo adventure, I decided to take on the challenge of climbing Mount Fuji for the first time. Uncertain of how the experience would unfold, I found myself facing a mountain unlike any I had encountered before. While I had tackled smaller peaks in the past, they now seemed like mere grass bumps in a backyard compared to the vast majesty of Mount Fuji. Nevertheless, I embraced the challenge with enthusiasm.
After exploring the dynamic East part of Japan, I ventured to the enchanting west coast. While Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto often steal the spotlight for tourists, I was eager to delve into lesser-known gems like Kagoshima and Kumamoto. These smaller cities held a special charm for me, offering a more intimate and easily navigable exploration experience without the constant worry of missing hidden gems.
Kagoshima, with its captivating view of Sakurajima volcano across the bay, painted a fantasy landscape that added an intriguing touch of mystery to the entire island. The trip was truly memorable. However, when it comes to castles, my heart unequivocally favors Kumamoto Castle in Kumamoto. Amidst the city's thrilling attractions, the castle stood out with its rich history. While many castles share similarities, Kumamoto Castle's unique historical narrative resonated with me. Despite enduring challenges over the years, the castle's restoration reflects the deep commitment and care of the local community, making it a standout destination in my journey through Japan.
The last city in Japan on my to-do list, before bidding farewell to the country, was Nagoya, and that's exactly where I chose to celebrate my birthday. Surprisingly, Nagoya felt remarkably tranquil despite its considerable size. I found immense pleasure in strolling through Nagoya's streets, deliberately choosing random paths to wander, and indulging in high-quality street photography.
One particular highlight for me was Hisaya Ōdori Park, which quickly became one of my favorite parks, owing to its multifaceted offerings. Negotiating the limited space available in Japan, the park efficiently showcased how the country ingeniously constructs parks and recreational spaces.
The subway
No doubt, subways have emerged as the optimal mode of transportation in any Japanese city. Given the intricacy of city layouts resembling ant colonies, they become a crucial necessity for travelers. Adapting to the diverse subway lines did pose an initial challenge, but once mastered, it significantly streamlined my movement across different locations, ultimately saving considerable time.
2023
As my time in Japan drew to a close, I yearned for a more laid-back experience. Many of my original friends were bidding their farewells, signaling a return to solo travel – a prospect that never dismayed me. My plan for 2023 was to revisit places I had missed and tackle Mount Fuji again, this time well-prepared and accompanied by a group.
To my surprise, the latter half of the year turned out to be unexpectedly eventful. I found myself engaged in significant activities almost every other week, taking advantage of the accumulated time off that needed to be utilized. Additionally, I ventured into assisting a friend in Yokosuka, leading me to explore the entire peninsula, and even affording me a few days to visit Yokohama—a city that gives off an aura of luxuriance, seemingly housing the wealthy population of Tokyo.
My journey led me to a pause in Kyoto, my absolute favorite city in Japan. Kyoto offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese charm, a stereotypical image many associate with the country, and the contemporary vibrancy akin to Tokyo.
My final quest in each city was to seek out Japanese chef knives. As a former chef, I aspired to build a collection from various regions. The idea was to display and use these knives in my future home, appreciating the craftsmanship and origin of each piece. It added a distinctive touch to my travels, merging my culinary background with a desire for a tangible connection to the places I explored.
conclusion
When I first arrived in Japan, I found myself in unfamiliar territory. However, over time, I embraced the opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and live a life I never imagined. It's been incredible absorbing the rich culture, discovering aspects I never knew existed, and having the freedom to capture those moments with my camera. These experiences will always hold a special place in my heart. As I bid farewell to Japan, I'll cherish the people I've met and the unforgettable places. Like everything else, this chapter must come to an end. Goodbye, Japan.