A Japanese Dream Vacation
by Yasmine Lawson
I’ve always been fascinated with Japan and its beautiful culture. From its language and native tongues, to its traditions and customs, Japanese culture presented an awe inspiring way of life that put it at the forefront of my bucket list. I began studying the Japanese language and culture in middle school and all throughout high school. While I haven’t continued my formal studies in university, I do continue to stay fascinated by all things Japanese. In doing this, I’ve curated a list of places and things I aim to do at least once in my lifetime. Here is my Japanese dream vacation!
Tokyo – A Sushi Masterclass
Hitting the country’s capital is definitely #1 within my dream vacation. Tokyo presents the best of Japan’s city-life and among all the activities there. I’d really love to focus on the food here; specifically sushi! Now, I’m one of the biggest sushi-lovers on the planet, but I could not make a sushi roll if my life depended on it. Taking a sushi masterclass at one of Tokyo’s exclusive sushi restaurants would be a highlight of my life. The best part? I get to eat more sushi!
Kyoto – A Day in the life of a Geisha
One 295 mile Shinkansen (“bullet train” for my english speakers) ride later, I’d plan to end up in Kyoto. As the gorgeous city known for being the culture capital of Japan, Kyoto features stunning palaces, gardens, shrines, and temples. One thing I’d love to do here is spend the day with a traditional geisha. Japanese geisha’s are essentially performance artists/ hostesses that are skilled in traditional music, games, dance, and conversation. These “women of art” bring enlightening and insightful perspectives to Japanese culture. Not only would I get to learn more about the culture that I adore, but I’d also get entertainment, a customary dinner, and a chance to practice some of my Japanese skills. Sounds like a good time to me!
Myokaku-Ji Temple – A Day of Mediation and Wellness
As a huge self-care advocate and practitioner, I couldn’t think of a better travel experience than to participate in another culture’s way of self-care. A journey to this temple features monks chanting to the accompaniment of Japanese Drums, a meditative experience, immersion in peace and tranquility, a journey through Japanese zen gardens, and the creation of a mini Zen garden with the guidance of a master gardener. Travel is all about widening perspective, and restoring your soul. By that reasoning, this activity alone is the perfect reason to travel for me.
There’s so much that Japan has to offer, and I haven’t even touched a sliver of it. Japanese culture is a complete turnaround from Western ideals and views and offers a refreshing, new perspective of life and that’s why I love it so much! When searching for your next travel destination, I encourage you to look beyond what’s comfortable and familiar to you and travel to Japan (or any parts of Asia, really) and indulge yourself in the culture and traditions of the East.
