 |
|
I have to confess; Japan was never really on my travel radar—which is kind of ironic given my spiritual beliefs lean more towards Eastern philosophy. But, when Lori C. (pictured above), who has traveled with us more than 24 times made a special request for Japan, I knew I had to make it happen. How could I say no to helping fulfill a dream, especially after being informed that she refused to go without my special planning?
In April 2023, the planning began.
As I started researching for our 2024 adventure, I felt a spark ignite inside me—a familiar one. Years ago, I delved into Zen meditation and dabbled in Kyūdō, the art of Japanese archery. Those were some of the most peaceful days of my life. People would constantly comment on my energy. I wasn’t overly happy or sad, just balanced, living in the sweet spot of non-attachment. It’s often called the “middle way,” and it’s a vibe that had me unintentionally tuned in to a big part of Japanese culture without realizing it. Kind of like how people might African-American music and fashion without fully grasping their deep cultural roots.
For this experience, I wasn’t just planning a trip to see Japan—I wanted to help people to understand what it means to be Japanese.
On August 13th, 2024 we took flight for Japan.
Let me tell you, if there’s one thing I learned, it’s to never lump all Asian cultures together ever again. Saying all Asians are the same is like saying Africa is one country where everyone’s behavior is predictably identical. Nope, Japan stands uniquely apart with its distinct culture and traditions.
Japanese culture is all about simplicity, respect, and mindfulness, woven into the very fabric of life. One of my favorite concepts is "Ikigai"—finding your reason for being. It’s about doing what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be rewarded for. Talk about living with purpose! By embracing Ikigai, we can focus on what truly matters, finding joy even in the smallest achievements.
Another gem is "Wa," the principle of harmony. Whether it’s in relationships, community, or nature, the Japanese strive for balance and peaceful coexistence. You see it in everything, from their serene gardens to the way people interact with each other. By bringing a little Wa into our lives, we can cultivate deeper connections, reduce stress, and create our own little zen zones.
And then there’s "Wabi-Sabi," the art of finding beauty in imperfection and transience. In a world obsessed with perfection, Wabi-Sabi is a breath of fresh air, reminding us to appreciate the fleeting moments and the unique quirks that make life beautiful. This perspective can shift our focus from chasing the ideal to finding contentment right here, right now.
Taking it a step further, "Kintsugi" teaches us that our scars and imperfections can actually be our most beautiful features. This art of repairing broken pottery with gold highlights the cracks instead of hiding them. It’s a powerful metaphor for resilience and embracing our past, no matter how tough. Every challenge we’ve faced adds to our unique beauty today.
Japanese culture also values collaboration over competition. In a world where rivalry often rules, the Japanese prioritize working together for the greater good. This collective mindset fosters environments where everyone benefits, innovation thrives, and communities grow stronger.
And let’s talk about kindness! The Japanese have a deep cultural commitment to helping others, rooted in "Giri" (duty) and "On" (gratitude). Whether through small acts of kindness or significant gestures, they remind us of the importance of looking out for one another. One video that still touches my heart shows a crowd of people rushing to help a stranger who fell in a train station. It’s this sense of community that makes Japan so special.
Of course, I can’t forget "Omotenashi," the spirit of selfless hospitality. In Japan, it’s not just about service; it’s about anticipating needs and creating memorable experiences with genuine care. This is why tipping isn’t a thing in Japan—people give their best not for tips, but because it’s simply the right thing to do. Imagine if we all adopted a bit of Omotenashi in our lives—our interactions would be so much more thoughtful and meaningful.
These are just a few of the many gifts Japan has to offer. By opening ourselves to these practices and philosophies, we can lead more balanced, harmonious, and fulfilling lives. The wisdom of Japan invites us to slow down, appreciate the everyday beauty around us, and find deeper meaning in our actions and relationships.
Now, can we take a moment to appreciate the handsome Japanese men? Lord, I had no idea! Many are tall, well-built, and ooze swagger. If I had known, Japan would’ve been at the top of my list years ago. We even did some research to find out why so many Japanese men are so tall, and it turns out it’s not just genetics—nutrition and health play a big role. Post-World War II, the Japanese government implemented nutrition initiatives that boosted the average height of its people by 4-6 inches over the decades.
Thank goodness I’m on a "Guyatus" (a guy hiatus), or I might still be in Japan… meditating, of course!
 I am now madly attracted to Japanese men, something definitely NOT expected!
Join us when we return to Japan, October 1st to 9th, 2025. It’s going to be another unforgettable journey. |
 Japan 2025
October 1st - 9th 2025 Small Group Experenice Limited to 12 |
|
Globalnista
Formerly BlackGirlTravel 45 S Fairfax Ave Los Angeles, CA 90036 (323)275-4888 |
