Japan was always at the top of my travel list. I was deeply inspired by Shoe Dog, Phil Knight’s memoir, where he shares how, at 24, he traveled to Japan to pursue his dreams. I traveled to Japan at the age of 25 and the experience profoundly impacted me. From the culture to the food to the overall way of life, Japan left a lasting impression. Here are the five key takeaways from my journey:
1. The Art of Eating: Variety and Balance
The food was undoubtedly one of the highlights of my trip. I’ve always loved Japanese cuisine, but experiencing it firsthand was something else entirely. The book Ikigai describes the traditional Japanese dining style as small, beautifully arranged plates with a variety of foods such as rice, vegetables, miso soup, and side dishes. This approach not only makes meals more enjoyable but also encourages moderation through the principle of hara hachi bu, eating until you’re 80% full rather than overindulging. I embraced this mindset while in Japan, and it completely shifted my perspective on mindful eating.
2. A Culture Rooted in Respect
One of the first things I noticed in Tokyo was the respect people showed toward one another. Despite not seeing many Westerners, I never felt out of place. Everyone was polite, kind, and focused on their work. The level of discipline and courtesy in daily interactions was admirable. During the long walks through the city, I only encountered one homeless person and one intoxicated man, which was astonishing given the size of Tokyo.
3. A Nation That Moves: Health and Longevity
I was amazed by how active and healthy the Japanese people are. Walking is an essential part of daily life, and it was rare to see anyone significantly overweight or struggling with mobility. Elderly individuals moved with remarkable agility, embodying a lifestyle that prioritizes well-being. The correlation between movement, longevity, and overall health in Japan was evident everywhere I went.
4. Impeccable Cleanliness
Japan takes cleanliness to another level. One experience that stood out was taking a taxi in Tokyo. The car was spotless, and the service felt like a five-star experience. The driver greeted me politely, and everything was well maintained. This level of care extended to the streets, subways, and public spaces, making every corner of the city feel clean.
5. A Sense of Peace
Despite Tokyo’s immense size, I was amazed by how peaceful it felt. Walking through the Imperial Gardens was a surreal experience. The greenery, historic samurai homes, and peaceful atmosphere made it feel like stepping back in time. Even in Tokyo Disneyland, the difference from its American counterparts was eye opening. Instead of chaos, screaming children, and overwhelming crowds, the park was orderly, and the energy was far more relaxed.
6. Order and Structure in Every Detail
Japan operates with an unparalleled sense of order. People don’t jaywalk or run red lights. Even at Shibuya Crossing, the busiest intersection in the world, everything moved in a seamless, synchronized fashion. Despite the large number of people, there was no yelling and no honking, there was just quiet efficiency. This discipline extended to all aspects of life, from public transportation to daily interactions.
7. A Sophisticated Elegance
Tokyo’s Ginza district, home to some of the world’s most luxurious brands, was mesmerizing. While I’m not particularly into designer fashion, I couldn’t help but admire the way each store was curated with specific attention to detail. The architecture, the window displays, and the elegance of the area made walking through Ginza an experience in itself. Everything felt thoughtfully designed and a classy presentation that I had never seen before.
Final Thoughts: A Life-Changing Experience
Japan is more than just a destination. The culture, discipline, and deep-rooted traditions are something I will carry with me forever. I encourage everyone to experience Japan at least once in their lifetime. As Tom Cruise famously said in The Last Samurai, “I would die for these people.” And after my time in Japan, I truly understood that sentiment.
The Japanese way of life leaves a lasting impact in ways you never expect. I can’t wait to return and immerse myself even deeper in this incredible culture.
