Japan Wrap-Up

I've received a lot of questions about my whereabouts, as my writings have been paused. For the last week, I have been living in the moment. I haven't been thinking about the next blog post or the next picture. I've been appreciating the places and the people I've met. As my Japan chapter comes to a close, I can see why so many people move here and fall in love with the country. I accomplished so much in this short amount of time.

Just to name a few---

• I stayed in a traditional Japanese inn in rural Japan.
• I ate fresh tuna at the famous fish market in Tokyo.
• I visited the floating red gate on Miyajima island.
• I tried the regional delicacy at every new place I visited, which included broiled monger eel and miso marinated raw oysters.
• I danced in the most popular club in all of Japan until it kicked everyone out.
• I sang karaoke in a traditional Japanese bar that only fits six people.
• I got lost in the underground train systems.
• I ritually washed myself and paid my respect at the most renown Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines.
• I made a wish in congruence of the annual summer festival.
• I rode every major attraction at Tokyo DisneySEA in 4 hours.
• I saw the Tokyo skyline both in the day and at night from 40 floors above.
• I bathed at an onsen (hot springs) amusement park.
• I tried every piece of food that was served to me, even when I had no idea what it was.
• I witnessed the opening ceremony at Mitsukoshi department store.
• I stayed 6 nights in a capsule hostel.

But with the many things I see and do, there are always new things I take away.

I learned that the longer the line, the higher the quality.

I learned that shouting is only appropriate at restaurants, nowhere else.

I learned that it's just better to wait until the crosswalk is green.

I learned that courtesy is everything.

I learned that people do actively acknowledge your presence and thank you for it.

I learned that just when you think the train is full, more people step on.

I learned that I could feel completely safe with valuables exposed at 1:00 am, walking alone on the street.

I learned that people genuinely want to help you.

I learned that saying goodbye is a ceremony in itself.

Japan is wonderful, but I'm ready for the craziness of Thailand. Bangkok here I come!

Trust me--- I have a lot more to say about Japan...

Best Foods I Ate in Japan

The Magic of Department Stores