I’ve been fortunate to travel to many parts of the world, but every now and then a place reminds you why travel can be so transformative. Japan did that for me again.
Culture, people, kindness, respect, hard work, food… and even science and sound. It’s a magical place. And people bend over backwards to make sure that you’re taken care of. I’m very grateful for everything we saw.
Tokyo, for me, was just crazy – in the best way possible. The type of things we saw and did, whether it was the food, the shopping, the travel, or the kind of people we encountered, were fascinating. It felt like we were in a world where time somehow moved forward but also stood still. Tradition and modernity exist side by side, and that contrast is beautiful.
Then there’s Hokkaido. Hokkaido is like a magical place for fresh fruit, milk, and some of the most amazing food and activities. The farms there produce incredibly fresh ingredients, and you can taste the difference. Even something as simple as fruit feels special.
The food across Japan was simply remarkable. Whether you went to omakase, which is highly evolved Michelin-star level dining, or the simplest ramen shop, everything was amazing. Even the most casual meal felt thoughtful and perfectly executed.
Interestingly, I’m normally lactose intolerant. But I had milk products in Japan and it didn’t upset my stomach at all. That makes you wonder if some of the additives or processing methods we use elsewhere affect how our bodies react to food. In Hokkaido especially, the dairy and produce are renowned for being incredibly fresh.
Beyond the food, what struck me most was the people.
No matter where you went, people were incredibly kind and precise. Even the smallest thing – if someone was late by a minute, they would apologise sincerely. If there was even a minor oversight, they would acknowledge it and thank you for allowing them to correct it. I saw this at a hotel where the staff wrote back saying they were grateful they could fix something. Nowhere else in the world would someone respond like that.
There’s a real sense of pride in doing things well.
Even the shopkeepers – many didn’t speak English fluently – but someone in the shop always stepped in to help. Everyone wanted to make sure you were taken care of. You could see the pride in their work and in their culture.
Japan also feels incredibly safe. Honestly, it’s one of the safest places on the planet right now. On top of that, the value you get is remarkable. Between the exchange rate and tax refunds, you can receive a 10% refund immediately at the counter.
But the real point isn’t the money – it’s the quality.
You should spend money on things that are truly well made. In Japan, even the smallest object has extraordinary craftsmanship. The level of finishing, polishing, and attention to detail reminded me of German manufacturing—precise, beautiful, thoughtful.
Another cultural difference that stood out to me was tipping. In many parts of the world, tipping has become almost mandatory. In Japan, if you try to tip someone, they will refuse – sometimes almost with embarrassment. For them, doing the job well is simply their duty.
That sense of responsibility and dignity in work is something we could all learn from.
There’s a concept in India we often talk about: “Atithi Devo Bhava” – the guest is like God. In Japan, you genuinely feel that philosophy in action.
Looking back, this was actually my fifth visit to Japan over the years. But the country has changed. Decades ago, Japan felt more closed off. Today it has opened up more to the world, partly because tourism has become important to the economy. Yet the essence – the discipline, the craftsmanship, the culture – remains intact.
And that’s why the experience stays with you.
Japan is a place where quality matters. Where people care about the details. Where hospitality is genuine. And where every experience – from a bowl of ramen to a simple breakfast – reflects pride in doing things the right way.
For me, it was simply magical.
And if I get the chance, I’d go back every year.