Reflections on Japan One: Revisiting

I have just come back from my seventh trip to Japan.

On my first trip I was frantically trying to document everything because I thought it was a once in a lifetime trip. Most of us tend to explore the world as if we get one chance at bat. We visit a place and check it off our list. What I have learned from Japan, is the joy in going back to a place.

Going back frees one from the rush to see everything. It opens up the possibility of being lazy. Spending a day wandering, eating and sitting in a cafe. Sometimes revisiting a place, or a shop or deciding not to visit that historical site because there is no rush!

On our first trip, we were in Kyoto looking for a place to eat. We came upon small shopping mall, tucked behind an older building. That night there was some sort of bridal promotion so the steps to the second and third floor were decorated like a brides train.

Each time we went back we would try to find that place again.

The entrance before being torn down

Wedding steps

This year, it was gone. The mall was torn down and a temporary parking lot remained. It was sad and yet invigorating. One our next trip to Japan, I am excited to discover what has been built in its place.