Narita/Tokyo, Japan

It is weird I’ve always felt connected to the Asian culture? Like, since childhood I’ve always loved Asian food, the beauty of cherry blossoms, and the traditions of the culture. I wish I still had sketches of the wedding dress I wanted when I was nine years old I would most definitely post it here. It had the kimono collar and cherry blossoms embroidered into the train of the gown; it was all the rage back in 2002. The Asian way of life always seem so respectful + serene; it truly fascinates me. So when I had the opportunity to visit Narita and Tokyo, Japan, I was beyond ecstatic.

Japanese food:

I don’t even know where to begin concerning my love for the cuisine. I made an Instagram story for just about every meal I consumed there and put it in my IG highlights. (I am an extreme foodie, and when the food is delicious, I document it) I tried everything Japan had to offer in the food dept. The sketchier the marketplace, the more I was into it. Boba, sashimi, Japanese curry, octopus, there was nothing I turned down. I even experienced morning spaghetti. It was soba noodles with eggs and dumping meatballs. The Japanese don’t play about their coffee either, my first sip unapologetically karate chopped me in the throat in the best way possible! I was even blessed by this shop in our hotel that had jiggly fluffy Japanese cheesecake and *drumroll* Japanese macarons.

matcha + strawberry macarons

My eyes expanded wider than saucers when I saw these. Macarons are my dessert priority, so you better believe I purchased without hesitation. I’ve already gone on too long about the food, but it was all so vibrant + delicious if I close my eyes I can still taste it.

The atmosphere:

This entire trip was amazing to me because I got to see the best of both worlds. Narita was the calming, relaxing part of Japan while Tokyo was electric. In Narita, there were lush gardens, waterfalls, and soothing music was playing everywhere. It was such a peaceful location. I could have dropped on the ground just about anywhere and taken a nap. Tokyo was the other side of the coin. There were some many bright lights and busy people I was almost dizzy. In fact, I have an embarrassing/hilarious about something that happened to me right in the heart of Tokyo. I don’t have time to put it all here now, but if you REALLY want to you’ll have to reach out to me with, “Hey, I need to know the Tokyo story.” and I will gladly tell you! (It involves a missing shoe + the most beautiful man I’ve ever seen.) Tokyo was shopping central and I loved all of the hustle + bustle. So being able to experience both elements of Japan was incredible.

What I learned:

Japan is the cleanest place I have ever been to. I’m sure it has a lot to do with the fact it is illegal to litter there, but I was blown away by the cleanliness! On train rides, I found myself purposely looking out of the window for trash on the street, not even a fraction of a cigarette. Things are done with excellence in that country, and I think that’s why I feel so drawn to it. I’m like Japan. No seriously, hear me out. I have my days where I want to stay home for the entire day and treat myself to a day of relaxation + rejuvenation. I don’t want to see anyone, so I’m not leaving the house. Then I have my days where I want to party like there is no tomorrow! I’ll put on my best outfit, go to the best brunch spot, and party with my best friends until dawn. Both elements are still me, just different versions and that’s perfectly fine. I learned it’s ok to be versatile. For that, I’m grateful for the entire Japanese experience. You haven’t seen the last of me Japan!