I had always been fascinated by Japan and its rich culture, and in the fall of 2019, I finally had the opportunity to visit the country as part of a 2-week journey through Southwest Asia. After leaving Thailand, I arrived in Tokyo, ready to explore the city and immerse myself in its unique blend of modern technology and traditional heritage.

As soon as I stepped off the plane, I was faced with the challenges of a language barrier and a passing typhoon, which forced me to spend my first night in Tokyo sleeping in the airport. Despite this setback, I was eager to begin my journey and see what the city had to offer.

Exploring Tokyo was a surreal experience, with its towering skyscrapers, neon lights, and bustling crowds. The city is truly a showcase of advanced technology, and it was amazing to see how seamlessly the futuristic elements blended with traditional Japanese culture. I visited museums, malls, manga stores, and food spots, each offering a unique taste of Tokyo’s rich heritage.

Next, I took a bullet train to visit Osaka and Kyoto, which provided a stark contrast to the fast-paced, modern city of Tokyo. Osaka was a bustling metropolis with its own unique charm, while Kyoto felt like a step back in time, with its historic temples, shrines, and gardens. Walking through the streets of Kyoto, I had a sense of nostalgia, as if I was transported to a different era, when samurai roamed the land.

My time in Japan was an unforgettable experience, and I left feeling like I had only seen a fraction of what the country had to offer. I was particularly struck by the way in which traditional Japanese culture was preserved, even in the face of rapid modern development. From the busy streets of Tokyo to the peaceful temples of Kyoto, Japan truly is a unique blend of old and new, and I can’t wait to return and see more.