Why Japan?
Everyone always asks me, “Why Japan?”
Every interest has an origin story. Mine started as a child through anime and enchanting Studio Ghibli films. ‘My Neighbor Totoro’ was the first ghibli film I ever watched on VHS in the late 90s. I was instantly captivated by the gentle story, the whimsical music, and the unforgettable presence of Totoro himself.
As I got older and more films became available through streaming, I dove deeper into the world of Ghibli. I was enchanted by the unique settings, beautiful art, and storylines; not loud or fast-paced like the American films I was used to, but soulful, strange, and full of heart. Those magical films opened my heart to a country I had never been to, but somehow felt so deeply connected to.
I became drawn to Japanese design, food, and nature—and later realized that what I was really responding to was the deep intentionality behind it all. As someone who works in UX and customer experience design, I’ve always been fascinated by how the smallest details shape how people feel. And Japan, more than anywhere else I’ve been, radiates that same kind of thoughtful care.
Before ever visiting, I had traveled to incredible places around the world like Brazil, Africa, Thailand—but Japan still felt like a faraway dream. Then, in spring of 2024, I finally made it for my honeymoon with my husband.
That first trip changed everything. It felt like I had stepped into a world I had imagined for years, but it was even better than I dreamed. The kindness, the intention, the quiet beauty—it all spoke to my soul.
We explored Tokyo, Hakone, Nagoya, and Kyoto. The calm, the food, the people… but what surprised us most? Our favorite place wasn’t Tokyo or Kyoto—it was Nagoya. A completely underrated city most travelers skip, but one that gave us the magical, local experience we were craving. By contrast, Kyoto was packed. Even though we tried to avoid the most touristy spots, we weren’t prepared for the overwhelming crowds. That was the moment it really hit me: the magic of Japan lives off the beaten path.
When we returned home, I felt like I had left a piece of my heart there. I didn’t just want to go back—I wanted to help others discover a more meaningful, more soulful side of Japan too.
That’s why I started this blog and began creating content—to help travelers slow down, explore hidden gems, and experience the Japan they’ve always dreamed of.
The real Japan is found in quiet tea shops at sunset, in castle towns that transport you to another era, in kind locals who insist on giving you another bowl of rice, and in landscapes that feel like they were drawn straight out of an anime. That’s the Japan I fell in love with—and I can’t wait to help you discover it, too..