1. Thrift Heaven: Multi-Floor Madness 💘

Can we just talk about Japanese thrift stores for a minute?? I’m not exaggerating when I say they’re a spiritual experience. I went to one in Sapporo, and it was so overwhelming (in the best way) I genuinely didn’t know where to start. I remember thinking: “If I lived here, I’d need a full week. Minimum. Just for one store.” 😂 Pastel chic, frilly vintage, kawaii girl-core, minimalist neutrals, high-end designer treasures for under $20... Like... what even is this magic?! Picture this: five floors, each dedicated to a different category — accessories, bags, shoes, skirts, dresses... and you better believe I was living for it. And don’t even get me started on the styles. Next time, I’m bringing two empty suitcases and a heart ready to be healed by clothes.

2. Nobody Cares (in the Best Way) ✨

I know this might sound weird but... One of the things I loved most in Japan is how everyone just minds their own business. There’s something super peaceful about being surrounded by people who don’t stare, don’t interrupt, and just go about their lives. It felt so calming. They might seem a bit cold at first glance, but honestly? That quiet respect for space? I’m obsessed. I felt so safe traveling alone, even late or on the trains. People were always kind — even if most didn’t speak English, they’d still try to help with gestures and that sweet Japanese kindness. I truly appreciated that energy.

3. The Food. THE FOOD. 🍱

Okay. Let’s take a moment. Because… Japanese food? Next-level. It’s not just sushi and ramen (although YES to both always) — it’s the freshness, the balance, the portion sizes, the seasonal produce. It just feels good to eat there. I never felt that post-meal sluggishness. It’s like every dish is made with love, color, and intention. From little bento boxes with pickled veggies to perfectly grilled fish, miso soup, or even their convenience store snacks (7-Eleven in Japan deserves an award — you know what I mean if you know). And can we please talk about how even desserts aren’t too sweet? 🍓🍡 Bliss.

4. Nature That Looks Like a Painting 🌿📸

You already know I love taking photos — but in Japan? It’s actually overwhelming. Like... where do I even point the camera first?! One of my fave memories was biking through the countryside near Kutchan in June, during tulip season. It felt like a scene from a Studio Ghibli movie — birds chirping, insects buzzing gently, the breeze on my face, soft sunshine on green rice paddies. Pure magic. And even though I’ve been twice, I’ve barely seen what I want to see. Japan has so many layers — temples, mountains, forests, coastlines, city parks... It’s one of those places where you’re always discovering something new just by walking a few blocks in a different direction.

5. The Air Just Feels Different There 🍃

I don’t know how to explain this without sounding dramatic but... the air in Japan feels sacred sometimes. Like, you’re standing in a neon-lit street in Sapporo looking up at a glowing skyscraper — and then boom — the next moment you’re stepping off a train into a quiet countryside station where the only sound is wind and cicadas. That contrast? Gives me actual chills. It’s the kind of place that makes you slow down and look up more. You feel present. You feel.

Bonus: A Few Other Random Little Joys 🫶

🌟 Stationery shops. Literal heaven for a journal girl like me. So many washi tapes and pens, I almost cried.

🌟 Themed cafés. I’m dying to try more — from bunny cafés to sakura pop-ups.

🌟 Clean public restrooms. IYKYK. A whole luxury.

🌟 Vending machines that sell everything — from hot drinks to fresh flowers?!

🌟 Perfectly wrapped packaging. Like you just bought a gift for yourself, every time.