Travels in Japan

I’ve been back for 7 weeks and I still can’t get Japan out of my mind. I keep wondering what it was that grabbed me so hard. While the architecture, history, people, temples and shrines were different and enjoyable to see, they aren’t it. I think it’s that I’m a curious person who is constantly looking for little new to me things. In Japan they were everywhere. The workings of comprehensive transit system was fascinating. One example is that every metro station plays a different jingle before they close the train doors in station. The food was so varied and the little sweets were cute, pretty and unusual and everything was cheap and fresh. I could walk through the food halls for days and never get enough. Quality of life stuff that NY struggles so much with like garbage are organized and practically invisible. I mean, they don’t even put corner cans out and Japanese carry their trash home to dispose of properly!

The fashion scene was top notch and a fun comparison to my NY work neighborhood. Between there being beautiful Asian design and a fascination with the preppy look I grew up with and the endless vintage stores selling things like US college sweatshirts, it all was just wow!

Mostly in general I haven’t thought that much about Japan. It seems from talking to people I know, many have always dreamed of going to Japan. That wasn’t me. Sure I always want to go everywhere, but I thought Japan was so expensive that I really never thought about going. Well, what a surprise to arrive and find out that because of a strong Dollar and weak Yen, Japan actually seemed cheap. That meant I could try everything!

I had three wonderful weeks to soak it all in, but it just left me wanting more. There are so many things I don’t quite understand yet. And so many food items I didn’t get to try. The 13 hour flight and 13 hour time difference probably means I won’t be going back any time soon, but I’m grateful for the time I had. And I’m also having fun seeing Japanese things in NY with my new eyes.

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