Back to Japan 🇯🇵
Not forever, unfortunately
If you’ve been following me here on Substack, you’ve probably read a few of my previous posts where I shared some shots taken in the Land of the Rising Sun.
Japan has been a big goal for me — something I dreamed of for a long time, and finally reached. And honestly, it gave me so much more than I expected.
It’s one of those places that has always had a deep influence on my creativity — and now, little by little, it's starting to shape my lifestyle too.
Of course, I know I’m not alone in this, eh eh.
In recent years, Japanese culture has left a huge mark on the world. And it’s easy to see why.
My first trip, in November 2024, far exceeded my expectations. Or better yet — I didn’t know exactly what to expect, but I knew I was going to love it.
The experience was intense, inspiring, and refreshing. So much so that I decided to go back. We both absolutely loved it the first time, and Japan now has a special place in our hearts.
For me personally, it also reignited my passion for photography.
After a bit of a creative slump — just after I had picked up my Nikon Zf — that spark came back. You know what I mean? That energy that wakes you up inside, gets you moving again, and reminds you of who you are.
The Greeks called it eudaimonia (εὐδαιμονία) — a kind of well-being that goes beyond simple happiness. A deep sense of fulfillment, like you’re doing exactly what you’re meant to do.
That’s what I felt.
In Japan, I trained my eye again, bombarded my brain with new sights, new places, new energy. It was a jolt to the system.
If there’s one thing I remember clearly — besides the food, of course — it’s the constant feeling of discovery. Every moment brought something new, something unfamiliar. I saw the beauty of six cities in a pretty short amount of time.
That rush of visual stimulation definitely reignited something in me.
And at the beginning of this year, I told myself: “I have to go back.”
That feeling — that urge to return to a place so different from my own — was key. The decision was made, the flights were booked.
Tokyo – Kanazawa – Fukuoka.
Three cities — half the number from the first trip.
This time though, I want to take things slow.
I need to figure out what to focus on.
I can’t come back with a bunch of scattered shots — I need a theme, a throughline.
Right now, I don’t have it yet.
Maybe I’ll find it during the endless hours of flying.
Of course, expectations are still high. But my mindset will be different — more relaxed, more intentional. Slow Life.
And you?
Have you ever been to Japan?
What do you think I should focus on?
This post is part story, part cry for help. I believe in the power of community!