In July-August 2023 I went to Japan by myself. The fact that I went alone was probably the biggest surprise, but I booked it so I wouldn't change my mind. I remember the few weeks before I left, it didn't feel like I was actually going. I didn't feel anything. In fact, even on the plane ride there, I still felt nothing. The whole two months, I felt the strangest sensation of feeling absolutely nothing, but in the most fulfilling way. I can't quite explain it, and so what if it sounds super corny because I loved that trip ever so much. I learnt a lot travelling alone, and thankfully overcame my greatest worry, that was to make friends. The people I met in Japan were so warm and lovely, especially the friends I made through skating and my camp work. I honestly can't come to think of anything I would have changed.

 Japan was perfect for travelling alone as a young woman :p (thankfully I didn't run into any issues re; uh being a young woman alone, which I know is quite an issue there,,, I made sure to dress like a boy 90% of the time). The language barrier was a huge challenge considering I have basically no skill in that region, and would repeat the same terms at the convenience store every time (I was saying give me card please everytime I put my items down in Japanese). Otherwise, I think that added to the excitement of the unknown. Everything was new. Nothing was like home. I cannot put into words what a strangely curious body I was walking in. I was oddly super peaceful while I was there. If I got on the wrong train and missed my destination by two hours (that did happen) I didn't even get frustrated at myself. It must of been the copius amounts of matcha I was heaping into my water bottle and drinking up until 8pm at night.

Also will note, that the Japanese summer absolutely outdid Australia. I thought I was all prepped and everyone was just weak, but no. 

All in all, I don't think any photo or explanation or video or song or anything can explain what happened in those two months, but it truly was such a great experience and I was wildly depressed for at least a month once I got home. 

The playgrounds in Japan were so interesting to me. They had such an old-school look that pretty much mirrored any Japanese tv-show or movie I've seen. They were all quite basic but had so much character, whether it was the stupidly random location (especially in Tokyo) or the fact that I never actually say any kids using it. 

Nozawa Onsen

The most beautiful scenery I think I've ever seen in my life - Nagano and Niigata prefecture. Nozawa Onsen is a small town in Nagano that is usually busy in the winter as a ski resort. Close to Hakuba, I really hope one day I can return in the winter. However, that does not discount the beauty of the Summer. Thankfully, it was a little cooler than the humidity reigning across Tokyo city, the small town had such a kind and homely feel to it. Also, there was far more accommodation for English speakers than in any of the main cities.