Aspire

Historic, modern, traditional, unique and magnetic. On the surface, it must seem like no one place can be all of those things, especially all at once, but one visit to Japan will immediately change your mind about that.

There is a quote from Lao Tau that says: “A good traveler has no fixed plan, and is not intent on arriving” and this in so many ways applies so well to Japan⛩️. This is a place that encourages deeper discovery, reflection, a sense of wonder and is a perfect fit for the curious.

This visit was a mix of both the modern and the ancient with stops in Tokyo and Kyoto. This is a common city-pair as both offer what one might imagine is the best of this marvelous country. Lights, technology, bustle in the worlds largest metropolis juxtaposed against a quiet, traditional and contemplative city surrounded by forests. A great chance to explore both….

Landing in Tokyo one immediately notices a few things: 

1. Efficiency – It seems that somehow EVERYTHING in Japan had been thought about and carefully considered. Signage, instructions, transport. All easy to engage with and expressly designed to aid citizens and travelers alike.

2. Politeness / respect – This cannot be understated. 99.99% of Japanese I have met are unfailingly polite and helpful. They are conscious that you are a visitor and quick to assist. Directions? Making sense of Kanji symbols 漢字, helping to order in a restaurant when your Japanese is (severely) limited? No problem, you almost don’t even need to ask. Another thing I notice here is a deep respect for children and the elderly. Special consideration is given to both almost everywhere and this is a culture that values both.

3. Cleanliness / safety – As a traveler and one who has seen many countries and can unequivocally state that Japan is the among the cleanest places I go and perhaps only Switzerland is in the same conversation. No trash of any type is on the ground, streets, alleys stations all swept and cleaned daily. Hygiene is very important in this culture and masks were in vogue here LONG before the pandemic. Additionally, I never have felt unsafe here. Despite the fact that Tokyo is a city of 20 million people, crime is almost nonexistent as is homelessness. Japan values order and safety for all and it shows.

On this trip I had planned a number of experiences different from previous visits including a deep dive into the museums, a few new neighborhoods and the Shinkansen or bullet train 🚄.

Tokyo was nothing if not spectacular and watching the sun shine off of Mt Fuji on New Years Day was a special treat. Highlights included Shibuya Sky – 54 stories above Tokyo and a spectacular spot to get a sense of the sheer size of this place, a fun visit to Don Quijote (IYKYK), Disney Sea, the Western Museum of art, ancient EDO period pagodas, the Mejii Shrine, Ginza and at last a trip to the Tuskiji  fish market.

Tokyo must be seen to be believed.

Kyoto was in its own way, equally spectacular. Quiet, misty and contemplative, this traditional capital of Japan is what many picture when thinking of this magical country. Ancient temples, bamboo forests, period architecture and a deep sense of place. This city simply IS. It is proud, historic and wears the patina of centuries – it’s unlike any other place.

You just FEEL Kyoto and its a magical thing.

The sights, sounds and especially tastes here are like nowhere else and equal parts AMAZING and DELICIOUS. Punchy, vibrant, bright, pure – these are all words to describe cuisine in Japan. 

One of the most surprising things to me is that food here can be innovative, or also so very traditional. It’s a paradox, but a delectable one! Sushi just out of the water and even from small stalls on the street, the quality is better than anything you have ever experienced. Traditional tempura, and Teppan, Robatayaki, Udon, Ramen – all the best of their type and found with ease. The food here is reason alone to visit Japan.

Some highlights:

1. Food Markets – Magical places filled w/ stalls, alleys and delicious warrens serving every manner of Japanese specialties. Tuskiji in Tokyo, Nishiki in Kyoto and countless others. A BIG part of the culture here and a must visit.
2. Sushi: This is a food you can get anywhere in Japan, even in boxes at the train station and it will be universally better than any sushi you can find in your hometown. Supremely fresh and with varieties of fish you can’t easily find elsewhere (Halfbeak anyone?) its simply amazing. 
3. Wagyu: I have to admit that I was previously not the biggest fan of wagyu? The fatty mouthfeel was just not my thing. But, I experienced several cuts on the trip that were incredible. In fact we dined at a yakiniku in Kyoto that serves it exclusively. It changed my mind for sure. Tender, flavorful and with just a bit of char from the grill? Oīshi! 
4. Whiskey: Being a fan of Hibiki prior to this trip, I was focused on trying as many different producers and styles as I could to broaden my knowledge. Wow! The choices are amazing and I can honestly say that I didnt have even one that I didnt like. Some favorites? Vintage Hibiki 21yrs and Harmony blend, Yamazaki, Iwai and Akashi. 
5. Everything seafood
6. Yakitori . Because who doesn’t love things on sticks? Grilled chicken (ALL parts of the Chicken) is the style and I’m all for it. You will be too. 
7. Ramen: Enough said it’s everywhere and no matter where or what type you get? It’s better than anything you’ve ever had 💯 
8. Egg sandos: Ubiquitous here. You can find them at 7-11, vending machines, train stations… and they all rock. Fresh soft bread, Kewpie mayo and scallions. 💣
9. Beer: Seems easy right? Every place has beer. Japanese beer just hits different. Clean, pure flavors and readily served everywhere. It’s a beer lovers paradise. There are literally countless brands and styles to choose from in-country. Some favorites for me were Heartland and Koshikari rice lager. Kanpai! 
10. Teppanyaki: Way, way beyond Benihana here. Teppan is a true art form in Japan. The finest ingredients in somewhat formal settings. It’s a lovely way to spend a meal and enjoy a traditional (and fun) prep. 

History, culture, technology – Japan is all that and more. It’s a country, a people that invite further discovery and it rewards the curious. It unique and bewitching a place like no other and I’m glad to know it a bit. You will be too.

Kanpai! 🇯🇵