{"id":105432,"date":"2024-11-19T12:57:55","date_gmt":"2024-11-19T03:57:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/?p=105432"},"modified":"2024-12-03T10:16:48","modified_gmt":"2024-12-03T01:16:48","slug":"my-japan-life-as-a-travel-journalist","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/my-japan-life-as-a-travel-journalist\/","title":{"rendered":"My Japan: My Life as a Travel Journalist"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Hi everyone. Let me share a peek into my daily life for Voyapon readers as part of the <a href=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/category\/my-japan\/\">My Japan series<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For starters, I\u2019m Toshiko, Voyapon contributor in Spanish and English. If you\u2019ve been reading past installments, you might\u2019ve spotted a distinct lack of pattern due to the nature of our work. My weeks are no different in that regard, weekdays and weekends have little meaning to me, which comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Ever allergic to strict routines, this lifestyle suits me most of the time, fortunately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ht-block-toc  is-style-outline htoc htoc--position-wide toc-list-style-plain\" data-htoc-state=\"expanded\"><span class=\"htoc__title\"><span class=\"ht_toc_title\">Table of Contents<\/span><span class=\"htoc__toggle\"><\/span><\/span><div class=\"htoc__itemswrap\"><ul class=\"ht_toc_list\"><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#htoc-monday\">Monday<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#htoc-tuesday\">Tuesday<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#htoc-wednesday\">Wednesday<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#htoc-thursday\">Thursday<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#htoc-friday\">Friday<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#htoc-saturday\">Saturday<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#htoc-sunday\">Sunday<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"htoc-monday\">Monday<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>I wake up in the morning around 8am. I\u2019m not a morning person at all but on days that I work from home, for the most part I try to stick to a 9am-6pm schedule to match my husband\u2019s own work schedule. I make some <a href=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/matcha-green-tea\/\">green tea<\/a>, fold and store the <a href=\"https:\/\/voyapon.com\/futon-why-japanese-sleep-floor-japan\/\">futon<\/a>, and open my laptop to get to work on my desk. On days like this one, I\u2019m also working as a culture and travel writer for another Japan-related website so I check the day\u2019s tasks and get to work. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery aligncenter has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"105458\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15163606\/MyJapan-Desktop.jpg\" alt=\"Laptop and secondary monitor\" class=\"wp-image-105458\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15163606\/MyJapan-Desktop.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15163606\/MyJapan-Desktop-375x500.jpg 375w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15163606\/MyJapan-Desktop-640x853.jpg 640w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15163606\/MyJapan-Desktop-150x200.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"105457\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15163559\/MYJapan-Balcony.jpg\" alt=\"Lunch in balcony on a sunny day\" class=\"wp-image-105457\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15163559\/MYJapan-Balcony.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15163559\/MYJapan-Balcony-375x500.jpg 375w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15163559\/MYJapan-Balcony-640x853.jpg 640w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15163559\/MYJapan-Balcony-150x200.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>I have a small balcony with a lot of light next to the living room where I usually work, which I\u2019m quite grateful for. Sometimes I like to work from a nearby caf\u00e9 but this balcony makes \u201cmy home office\u201d a very pleasant day. I like to keep a small set of foldable table and chairs to eat on the balcony when the weather is just right, so I make a light lunch and enjoy the sun.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery aligncenter has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"105459\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15163612\/MyJapan-AinuFood.jpg\" alt=\"Ainu food\" class=\"wp-image-105459\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15163612\/MyJapan-AinuFood.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15163612\/MyJapan-AinuFood-375x500.jpg 375w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15163612\/MyJapan-AinuFood-640x853.jpg 640w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15163612\/MyJapan-AinuFood-150x200.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"105460\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15163618\/MyJapan-HokkaidoBeer.jpg\" alt=\"Hokkaido beer with Golden Kamui theme\" class=\"wp-image-105460\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15163618\/MyJapan-HokkaidoBeer.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15163618\/MyJapan-HokkaidoBeer-375x500.jpg 375w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15163618\/MyJapan-HokkaidoBeer-640x853.jpg 640w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15163618\/MyJapan-HokkaidoBeer-150x200.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n<figcaption class=\"blocks-gallery-caption wp-element-caption\">Left: Harukor&#8217;s venison is quite delicious. Right: I&#8217;m amused to see a special edition of Sapporo beer cans designed with Golden Kamui logos, as part of the izakaya&#8217;s decorations. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>After work, I meet a friend for dinner at Harukor, an Ainu izakaya that\u2019s relatively close to my place. I had gone once out of curiosity and I liked it a lot, so I had suggested it to my friend. We catch up about each other\u2019s life over drinks as it\u2019s been a while, and then we call it a night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"htoc-tuesday\">Tuesday<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Today, the day begins roughly in the same manner as yesterday. My husband goes to work and I start my day writing about the assigned topic of the day. But this evening is quite a busy one. After I finish work, I go for a walk around the neighborhood, return home and rest for a bit before doing some more work, this time writing posts for social media for an <a href=\"https:\/\/iglooo.net\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">IGLOOO<\/a> project, Voyapon\u2019s parent company. After I\u2019m done with these tasks, it\u2019s time to get my belongings and camera equipment ready for the next day, as I\u2019m scheduled for a coverage trip for the same IGLOOO project, which consists in creating content related to the Kanto Area for social networks. I\u2019ve been discussing some details with Kyoko, a colleague based in Fukuoka that\u2019s part of this project and who is also one of my main support points during this trip.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"htoc-wednesday\">Wednesday<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>I start my day heading to Asakusa to film a fun experience at <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ame-shin.com\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Ameshin<\/a>, a candy shop where I\u2019m going to learn the art of <em>amezaiku<\/em>. It\u2019s a fascinating process that reminds me a lot of glass crafts. We\u2019re doing a simple piece, a leaping bunny, but I\u2019m still quite far from achieving something similar to the model. However, this is quite fun. <\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15163624\/MyJapan-CaramelBunny.jpg\" alt=\"Candy Bunny workshop at Amezaiku Ameshin in Asakusa\" class=\"wp-image-105461\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15163624\/MyJapan-CaramelBunny.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15163624\/MyJapan-CaramelBunny-500x375.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15163624\/MyJapan-CaramelBunny-150x113.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">I&#8217;m sorry little bunny, I promise I tried my best.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>After the experience, I take the train to Kofu, where I have to take a walk around Maizuru Castle Park and take photos of the Castle Ruins. I\u2019m a bit concerned about the rain forecast so I try to make haste while trying to check the best spots for shooting. Luckily, it starts raining just as I\u2019m finished and leaving the park.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15165148\/MyJapan-MaizuruCastlePark.jpg\" alt=\"Maizuru Castle Park\" class=\"wp-image-105462\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15165148\/MyJapan-MaizuruCastlePark.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15165148\/MyJapan-MaizuruCastlePark-500x375.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15165148\/MyJapan-MaizuruCastlePark-150x113.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Afterwards, I pick up a rental car and drive to my accommodation at <a href=\"https:\/\/zenandbed.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">ZEN&amp;BED<\/a>, a special lodging next to a Buddhist temple with Zen meditation experiences. It\u2019s right after sunset when I arrive and a misty atmosphere after the rain adds a mysterious touch to this remote location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery aligncenter has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-3 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"105463\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15165921\/MyJapan-ZenBed.jpg\" alt=\"Temple ledging entrance on a rainy evening\" class=\"wp-image-105463\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15165921\/MyJapan-ZenBed.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15165921\/MyJapan-ZenBed-375x500.jpg 375w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15165921\/MyJapan-ZenBed-640x853.jpg 640w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15165921\/MyJapan-ZenBed-150x200.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"105464\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15165926\/MyJapan-TeaCeremony.jpg\" alt=\"Tea ceremony\" class=\"wp-image-105464\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15165926\/MyJapan-TeaCeremony.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15165926\/MyJapan-TeaCeremony-375x500.jpg 375w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15165926\/MyJapan-TeaCeremony-640x853.jpg 640w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15165926\/MyJapan-TeaCeremony-150x200.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>I\u2019m greeted with a tea ceremony before enjoying a delicious dinner consisting of <em>shojin ryori<\/em>, the traditional Japanese Buddhist vegetarian cuisine. Another two guests are staying as well, so we have dinner together while having a casual chat. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After dinner, I re-check the schedule for the next day and study the information for the next spots I will have to cover. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"htoc-thursday\">Thursday<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Morning prayer chants wake me up gently. Before breakfast, there\u2019s a Zen meditation experience with the temple monk. It\u2019s a nice and refreshing way to start the day, although it can be challenging to try to void my thoughts while keeping my eyelids only partially closed. Truth be told, I\u2019m more concerned with getting the scenes properly recorded, but I try my best to follow the experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery aligncenter has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-4 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"105466\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15170722\/MyJapan-ZenMeditation.jpg\" alt=\"Zen meditation session guided by a Buddhist monk\" class=\"wp-image-105466\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15170722\/MyJapan-ZenMeditation.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15170722\/MyJapan-ZenMeditation-375x500.jpg 375w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15170722\/MyJapan-ZenMeditation-640x853.jpg 640w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15170722\/MyJapan-ZenMeditation-150x200.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"105465\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15170717\/MyJapan-ShojinRyoriBreakfast.jpg\" alt=\"Shojin Ryori Breakfast at a Buddhist Temple lodging\" class=\"wp-image-105465\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15170717\/MyJapan-ShojinRyoriBreakfast.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15170717\/MyJapan-ShojinRyoriBreakfast-375x500.jpg 375w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15170717\/MyJapan-ShojinRyoriBreakfast-640x853.jpg 640w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15170717\/MyJapan-ShojinRyoriBreakfast-150x200.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Breakfast takes place in a restaurant that&#8217;s right beside the temple. Just like the dinner, it&#8217;s really delicious despite being completely vegetarian. After breakfast, it\u2019s time to continue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The next spot turns out unexpectedly fun. Saiseki no Kura is a museum dedicated to gemstones and how they\u2019re processed into jewellery. But I\u2019m not there to study gemology but to experience its most popular activity, which is searching for gemstones in a sandbox for 30 minutes. The sandbox also has a variety of non-precious stones which we can also keep to craft a charm or a cute bracelet. Alas, I was hopeful for a precious stone but I still got a small citrine so at least I didn\u2019t leave empty-handed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery aligncenter has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-5 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"105468\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15171759\/MyJapan-SaisekiNoKura.jpg\" alt=\"Gemstone search experience at Seiseki no Kura\" class=\"wp-image-105468\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15171759\/MyJapan-SaisekiNoKura.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15171759\/MyJapan-SaisekiNoKura-375x500.jpg 375w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15171759\/MyJapan-SaisekiNoKura-640x853.jpg 640w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15171759\/MyJapan-SaisekiNoKura-150x200.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"105469\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15171806\/MyJapan-Citrine.jpg\" alt=\"Citrine found at gemstone searching experience in Saiseki No Kura\" class=\"wp-image-105469\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15171806\/MyJapan-Citrine.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15171806\/MyJapan-Citrine-375x500.jpg 375w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15171806\/MyJapan-Citrine-640x853.jpg 640w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15171806\/MyJapan-Citrine-150x200.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>I hop in my car again and head to my next spot, Suntory Tomi no Oka, a scenic winery with pretty vineyards and great views of Mount Fuji. I\u2019m taking part in a wine cellar tour that culminates with a wine-tasting experience. However, driving means alcohol is out of the question unfortunately, but the staff kindly provided me with servings of wine anyway so I could take photos for the coverage. The wine smell provides some consolation to get an approximate idea about what it tastes like. I did get to enjoy a nice glass of grape juice though.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery aligncenter has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-6 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"105472\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15172224\/MyJapan-SuntoryTomiNoOkaWinery.jpg\" alt=\"Vineyards with Mt. Fuji in the background at Suntory Tomi No Oka Winery\" class=\"wp-image-105472\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15172224\/MyJapan-SuntoryTomiNoOkaWinery.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15172224\/MyJapan-SuntoryTomiNoOkaWinery-375x500.jpg 375w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15172224\/MyJapan-SuntoryTomiNoOkaWinery-640x853.jpg 640w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15172224\/MyJapan-SuntoryTomiNoOkaWinery-150x200.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"105471\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15172218\/MyJapan-SuntoryTomiNoOkaWinery2.jpg\" alt=\"Wine tasting experience at Suntory Tomi No Oka Winery\" class=\"wp-image-105471\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15172218\/MyJapan-SuntoryTomiNoOkaWinery2.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15172218\/MyJapan-SuntoryTomiNoOkaWinery2-375x500.jpg 375w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15172218\/MyJapan-SuntoryTomiNoOkaWinery2-640x853.jpg 640w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15172218\/MyJapan-SuntoryTomiNoOkaWinery2-150x200.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n<figcaption class=\"blocks-gallery-caption wp-element-caption\">Left: The winery&#8217;s location is a highlight with impressive sights of Mount Fuji. Right: The white wine seemed refreshingly fruity while the red wine had a deep smoky barrel smell.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>After the winery, I take a quick lunch break and then drive to my last coverage location for the day, which is Misogi Shrine. A very nice Shinto shrine with a large noh stage that, fortunately, was almost empty because it was a weekday, allowing me to wind down a bit while shooting. Finally, I drive to return the car and ride a train to Kobuchizawa Station to rest for the day. It&#8217;s past sunset and there are nice views from the station building.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15172731\/MyJapan-Kobuchizawa.jpg\" alt=\"Evening at Kobuchizawa Station\" class=\"wp-image-105473\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15172731\/MyJapan-Kobuchizawa.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15172731\/MyJapan-Kobuchizawa-500x375.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15172731\/MyJapan-Kobuchizawa-150x113.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"htoc-friday\">Friday<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>I\u2019ve been looking forward to this day since the beginning of the coverage trip. I\u2019m taking the High Rail 1375 at Kobuchizawa Station, a scenic train that covers a mountainous area between Yamanashi and Nagano with an interior specially designed to sit facing its large windows to enjoy the landscape. Its name is derived from the altitude of one of the railway sections, which at 1,375 meters above the sea is the highest of all the JR lines in Japan. A JR representative is helping me today, letting me know about some key locations during the ride and speaking on my behalf when requesting photoshooting permission from the train staff.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery aligncenter has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-7 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"105475\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15173504\/MyJapan-HighRail.jpg\" alt=\"High Rail train \" class=\"wp-image-105475\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15173504\/MyJapan-HighRail.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15173504\/MyJapan-HighRail-375x500.jpg 375w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15173504\/MyJapan-HighRail-640x853.jpg 640w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15173504\/MyJapan-HighRail-150x200.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"105474\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15173457\/MyJapan-HighRail2.jpg\" alt=\"Eating lunch aboard the High Rail train \" class=\"wp-image-105474\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15173457\/MyJapan-HighRail2.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15173457\/MyJapan-HighRail2-375x500.jpg 375w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15173457\/MyJapan-HighRail2-640x853.jpg 640w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15173457\/MyJapan-HighRail2-150x200.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Because of the line\u2019s altitude, JR goes with the theme of \u201cthe train closest to the sky,\u201d with cute whimsical space-related motifs inside and a special section with a small planetarium and bookshelves with astronomy-related books. It made me feel very nostalgic about my childhood when I dreamed of being an astronaut or maybe an astronomer. The total ride was about two hours. I wouldn\u2019t call myself a train nerd but I do enjoy riding trains, and this one in particular was so enjoyable that make up my mind to return some other time and take the evening train so I could also participate in the ride\u2019s stargazing session.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15173603\/MyJapan-NunobikiKannon-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Nunobiki Kannon Temple\" class=\"wp-image-105476\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15173603\/MyJapan-NunobikiKannon-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15173603\/MyJapan-NunobikiKannon-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15173603\/MyJapan-NunobikiKannon-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15173603\/MyJapan-NunobikiKannon-900x600.jpg 900w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15173603\/MyJapan-NunobikiKannon-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15173603\/MyJapan-NunobikiKannon.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>I come back to reality at the end of the ride and head to the car rental shop. My next location is Nunobiki Kannon, also known as Shakusonji, a very impressive Buddhist temple built on a cliff, which requires a small hike to visit. I wish I could stay longer shooting at this location but I have a schedule to follow. I share my impressions with Kyoko, who had considered to schedule also a reel for this location but eventually decided on another spot. It\u2019s certainly a challenge trying to pick between so many interesting spots. I\u2019m rambling all the time with her on the trip\u2019s group chat, to keep them updated about my whereabouts but also to share the things I like along the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Next and last on my list for the day is Unno-juku, a post town from Edo-era Hokkoku Kaido (the traveling route between Edo and Kanazawa). It\u2019s one of those lovely traditional old towns with well-preserved historical houses. The only drawback is how early everything closes around here. I wander around shooting and trying to spot somewhere where I could sit for a cup of coffee or tea and try to soak in the ambience when I finally spot a charming second-hand bookstore and caf\u00e9. Unfortunately, as I\u2019m about to enter, I check to verify the business hours and the shop is about to close.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15174116\/MyJapan-Cafe.jpg\" alt=\"Used books cafe at Unno-juku\" class=\"wp-image-105477\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15174116\/MyJapan-Cafe.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15174116\/MyJapan-Cafe-500x375.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15174116\/MyJapan-Cafe-150x113.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>I asked the owner for permission to shoot inside since I was already there anyway. This sweet old man must have taken pity on my visible disappointment, as he allowed me to take photos while also telling me I could order something if I wanted, when I sheepishly asked just in case about the closing time. Needless to say, after thanking him profusely, I tried not to overstay my welcome, enjoying my coffee as quickly as I could.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As evening falls, I drive to Matsumoto to return my car and spend the night. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"htoc-saturday\">Saturday<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The day\u2019s coverage starts with a fun samurai experience, where I get to wear traditional clothing and practice basic kendo moves under professional guidance. It\u2019s not my first time doing these kinds of experiences but admittedly, swinging a sword and feeling like a cool extra in a samurai movie never gets old. My English-speaking instructor is casual and engaging, throwing samurai-related jokes here and there and making references to samurai-themed movies, which is a fun and fresh contrast to other past experiences where the instructor was much more solemn. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-8 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" data-id=\"105478\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15174432\/MyJapan-SamuraiExperience-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Samurai Experience at Matsumoto\" class=\"wp-image-105478\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15174432\/MyJapan-SamuraiExperience-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15174432\/MyJapan-SamuraiExperience-500x375.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15174432\/MyJapan-SamuraiExperience-150x112.jpg 150w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15174432\/MyJapan-SamuraiExperience.jpg 1179w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Then again, the clock is ticking and I must continue. This experience is offered in tandem with a Matsumoto Castle tour so I make my way there and meet with a Matsumoto City Tourism representative, which will allow me to bypass the busy weekend queues for my coverage. Despite this, sometimes I have to wait at the narrow staircases, as security staff tries to control the flow of people for safety reasons, delaying me unexpectedly. I finish the castle shooting with barely enough time left to make it in time to the station, exactly 15 minutes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery aligncenter has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-9 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"105480\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15174624\/MyJapan-MatsumotoCastle.jpg\" alt=\"Matsumoto Castle\" class=\"wp-image-105480\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15174624\/MyJapan-MatsumotoCastle.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15174624\/MyJapan-MatsumotoCastle-375x500.jpg 375w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15174624\/MyJapan-MatsumotoCastle-640x853.jpg 640w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15174624\/MyJapan-MatsumotoCastle-150x200.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"105479\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15174618\/MyJapan-MatsumotoCastleVisitors.jpg\" alt=\"Visitors inside Matsumoto Castle\" class=\"wp-image-105479\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15174618\/MyJapan-MatsumotoCastleVisitors.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15174618\/MyJapan-MatsumotoCastleVisitors-375x500.jpg 375w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15174618\/MyJapan-MatsumotoCastleVisitors-640x853.jpg 640w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15174618\/MyJapan-MatsumotoCastleVisitors-150x200.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>I can\u2019t afford to miss my train as the next one will not depart for another hour. During the past few minutes, the representative had been trying to book a taxi to no avail. \u201cWelp, time to make a run for it!\u201d is what I think to myself as I thank my companion for trying to help me while signalling I have to go. She knew about my schedule so she wished me good luck as I ran, while internally feeling grateful for the moment I decided to travel with my camera backpack instead of a small suitcase. My back is not happy about the weight but that\u2019s the convenient choice for moments like this one. Fortunately, I made it with a minute to spare.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>My destination is Obuse, a well-preserved historic town in Northern Nagano, famous for its chestnuts and for being the place where Hokusai spent his latter years thanks to the generous patronage of Takai Kozan, a local wealthy merchant who was also a painter and calligrapher. During this time, Hokusai created several stunning masterpieces, contributing to the town\u2019s fame. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery aligncenter has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-10 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"105506\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15221206\/MyJapan-ObuseRickshawTour.jpg\" alt=\"Rickshaw guide in Obuse Town\" class=\"wp-image-105506\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15221206\/MyJapan-ObuseRickshawTour.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15221206\/MyJapan-ObuseRickshawTour-375x500.jpg 375w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15221206\/MyJapan-ObuseRickshawTour-640x853.jpg 640w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15221206\/MyJapan-ObuseRickshawTour-150x200.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"105504\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15221156\/IMG_7439-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Roasted chestnuts in Obuse town\" class=\"wp-image-105504\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15221156\/IMG_7439-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15221156\/IMG_7439-375x500.jpg 375w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15221156\/IMG_7439-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15221156\/IMG_7439-640x853.jpg 640w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15221156\/IMG_7439-150x200.jpg 150w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15221156\/IMG_7439.jpg 1179w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure>\n<figcaption class=\"blocks-gallery-caption wp-element-caption\">Left: Seeing my lively guide interacting with the townsfolk is as enjoyable as the tour itself. Right: After Hokusai, roasted chestnuts are the town&#8217;s most prominent highlight.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>At the station, a guide with a rickshaw is waiting for me. This is my first time riding one. My guide takes me around town, talking about the town\u2019s history, relevant spots and Hokusai\u2019s legacy, as well as some of the most famed chestnut spots. Obuse is my guide\u2019s hometown, so he knows everyone and while walking around town, lots of people greet him while he explains to everyone that I\u2019m there for a travel coverage. I\u2019m amused by the experience despite feeling a little self-conscious. Being the center of attention is definitely not for me, but it\u2019s fun and a little heartwarming seeing my enthusiastic guide being friendly to everyone. Some of the perks of small-town living I guess. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>My rickshaw guide leaves me so I can have lunch and visit the <a href=\"https:\/\/hokusai-kan.com\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Hokusai Museum<\/a>, and picks me up later to take me outside of town to Ganshoin, a Buddhist temple famous for Hokusai\u2019s impressive painting in the main hall ceiling, titled \u201cPhoenix Glaring in All Directions.\u201d The temple itself is well worth a visit because of its long history and beautiful surroundings. The temple staff kindly greets me and guides me around as photos are normally not allowed inside.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15221227\/MyJapan-HokusaiPhoenix.jpg\" alt=\"&quot;Phoenix Glaring in All Directions&quot; by Hokusai in Ganshoin Temple\" class=\"wp-image-105509\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15221227\/MyJapan-HokusaiPhoenix.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15221227\/MyJapan-HokusaiPhoenix-500x375.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15221227\/MyJapan-HokusaiPhoenix-150x113.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>After I\u2019m done, a taxi is waiting for me outside of the temple, to take me to Obuse Station. I get to admire a pretty sunset from the station before finally making my way home to Tokyo at night.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15221146\/MyJapan-ObuseSunset.jpg\" alt=\"Sunset in Obuse\" class=\"wp-image-105503\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15221146\/MyJapan-ObuseSunset.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15221146\/MyJapan-ObuseSunset-500x375.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15221146\/MyJapan-ObuseSunset-150x113.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>My husband is waiting for me at Okubo Station. We have dinner near the station before going home. I tell my supporting colleagues at IGLOOO that I\u2019ve made it safely home and thank them for their help. During these past four days, Kyoko has been looking after me and we\u2019ve been constantly in touch with each other regarding the progress of the coverage, both for status updates or simply sharing impressions and fun tidbits, so at the end of my trip I thank her for her invaluable help. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"htoc-sunday\">Sunday<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>I have another upcoming coverage in a couple of days so I intend to work today to edit the material I\u2019ve been shooting during the past week. I excuse myself out of some social gatherings with friends and try to get some things done. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Turns out, however, I\u2019m so tired that a panda lying around and chewing bamboo is probably more productive than me at this point.  \u201cI probably should go out to get some fresh air anyway,\u201d I say to myself as I give up for the time being. A mountain of writing and editing work awaits me so I may as well have a small break to eat, drink and be merry with my pals.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15221301\/MyJapan-Izakaya.jpg\" alt=\"Izakaya with friends\" class=\"wp-image-105513\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15221301\/MyJapan-Izakaya.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15221301\/MyJapan-Izakaya-500x375.jpg 500w, https:\/\/s3.voyapon.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/15221301\/MyJapan-Izakaya-150x113.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>I\u2019ll take care of this tomorrow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Hi everyone. Let me share a peek into my daily life for Voyapon readers as part of the My Japan&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":163,"featured_media":105518,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"pgc_meta":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[3267],"tags":[2090,1713,2154,2231,1307,2063,2058,1374,1257],"class_list":{"0":"post-105432","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-my-japan","8":"tag-countryside","9":"tag-local-crafts","10":"tag-culture","11":"tag-living-in-japan","12":"tag-temple","13":"tag-temple-stay","14":"tag-tokyo-city","15":"tag-train","16":"tag-yamanashi"},"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v24.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>My Japan: My Life as a Travel Journalist<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Toshiko Sakurai shares the details of a week in her life as a travel writer based in Japan. 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