A dream has come true. It’s been a long time coming too. I have dreamt of going to Japan since I was about 12, I think. When I was younger, I bought a lot “GEO” magazines (like the German National Geographic) and other travel mags with my pocket money purely for the reason that they featured Japan. I imagined how it must be like a lot of times. And it took me a good while to save up and get there. But I did and it was more amazing than I could have ever thought. It’s a diverse country, with so many juxtapositions and extremes, but it makes it all the more fascinating. It also feels like you can only scratch at the surface on a holiday. And even if you live there, it would take years to get to know the people and the place well. Japan doesn’t make it easy for you, but on the other hand, they are the friendliest and most courteous people (to tourists I might add) I have encountered on my travels so far. And I think it’s not only tourists. Dealing with so many other people in this small country has made them polite and considerate to strangers, there is no obnoxious behaviour, there are simple rules, there is the time taken for little courtesies. And I noticed how much easier it makes everything. If you play your part as well, Japanese people are very friendly, helpful and welcoming. An example? The time we didn’t sort the rubbish the right way and 2 elderly Japanese explained to us (in Japanese with a lot of hand gestures) how to properly fold and flatten all the little rubbish bits and cartons until it was all in order. (This country loves order btw 🙂 ). And you end up feeling happy you did it right and not reprimanded at all…
I saw crazy robot shows and beautiful calm temples, I saw a traditional Shinto wedding, real Geisha and Harajuku girls partying, I saw the most exquisite craftsmanship in wood, laquer and glass while also the cheapest toys and random decor. From cheap meals to luxury food, it’s all there and it all has it’s own special experience. It’s all such a visual and sensory blast that you feel like you fell down a rabbit hole and don’t know where to look in wonder. I fell in love with so many customs and things, I will never forget them and take with me (in my memories) whatever I can. It’s a special place and I can only recommend it. Has anyone else been to Japan? I would love to hear your experiences!!
Below is a poster I created from all the different things creating patterns which in their own way symbolize Japan for me!
