Kyoto is a city that lingers in the heart, where ancient temples, serene gardens, and living traditions invite you to slow down and take notice. On this return visit, I explored iconic sites like Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, and Gion, taking in both the stillness and the spirit of the city. Kyoto doesn’t dazzle with spectacle; it reveals itself in quiet, thoughtful moments that stay with you long after you’ve left.

I experienced the magic of Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto not once, but twice. First on a peaceful early morning guided tour, and later on a solo evening hike through thousands of torii gates to the summit under the night sky and lantern lights.

Recently, I returned to Hiroshima and Miyajima, two places that allowed me to slow down and absorb their history and beauty. Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park moved me with its solemn tribute to the past, while Miyajima's serene atmosphere and iconic floating shrine provided the perfect space to reflect, capture a long-awaited photograph, and feel a deep sense of peace.

Osaka was a city full of surprises … gritty, energetic, and completely different from anywhere else I visited in Japan. From the chaos of Dotonbori to the calm of Nara Park and the timeless beauty of Himeji Castle, each day brought something new.

Located in the Japanese Alps, Nagano is known for its natural beauty and rich cultural history. It hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics and is also home to one of Japan’s more unique sights: the Japanese macaques, or “Snow Monkeys,” who famously soak in hot springs during the cold months.

Tokyo resists easy descriptions. It’s a blend of old and new, where ancient temples meet neon lights and bustling nightlife. It’s a place that’s both orderly and complex, steeped in tradition but also embracing change. People here are proud, searching for a balance in life amidst this crazy metropolis.

I discovered a Tower Records in Tokyo, and, as I stepped into this 8-story golden paradise, my heart was filled with memory and wonder. Each floor offered something different, featuring jazz and classical, J-pop and K-pop. Eventually, I found my way to the vinyl section, and just like that, the teenage version of me began flipping through the bins, wide-eyed and excited.

Traveling has been an integral part of my life since childhood. My explorations have taken me to 28 countries across six continents, and I’m always looking for my next great adventure. Traveling has broadened my horizons and introduced me to the beauty of our world and the many cultures that inhabit it.