5 Things To Love About Japan

It has been drizzling since morning, and I’ve had two cups of chocolate drink; the first cup sweeter than the second. Enough to give me that short sugar rush to jot down my to-do list.

I had a plan on going out today but as always, the weather wins. Plus, I’m steering away from any possibility to catch a cold because this weekend is going to a hectic one. Us moving, long trip to our new place.

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One time, my friend was coming to Japan and beaming with excitement, she asked, “what’s good in Japan?” and the answer is always almost the same every time.

“Disneyland, Disneysea, Sushi” Depending on that person’s interest.

But if you ask me what are the everyday things I really love about Japan apart from the general politeness and punctuality,
here’s a list.

5 Things I Love About Japan (you probably would, too)

Convenience Store

Convenient stores are the lifeline of the people. Operating 24 hours and sell all sort of things from lunch box, re-heatable instant rice, socks, skincare to laundry detergent. No wonder they’re located within walking distance from each other.

And my favorite is the seasonal goods; pumpkin pudding during autumn, sakura ice-cream during spring and varieties of slushies during summer.

You can also pay bills, print stuff and have a go to decent cuppa coffee from the convenient stores. Yas!

Washlet

Washlets are a wonderful invention. It’s hygienic, no fuss and easy to maintain. The heated one, is truly a blessing.

Public Transportation

Known to the whole world. Their buses and trains are punctual, which I find very fitting to one’s schedule. It’s easier to make appointments because you can estimate the actual time needed. After all, our daily life does revolve around the clock.

Secondhand Goods

This is actually my favourite one. From clothings, furniture, electrical appliances and branded goods, most of Japan’s used shops do sell high quality items. Somehow I do rely on these shops more because they have wide variety of items.

Some shops are so good you can’t even tell if the items are used! They do have online website and Apps but I prefer to just stop by the shop and see the material up close.

There. I listed down 7 things I personally love and surely going to miss once I leave this country.

Oh, if you’re wondering what it’s like living oversea, I wrote something! HERE: Living overseas, is it worth it?

Fashion Trend

As a 4 seasons country, naturally they would change the trend every time and I never intend on keeping up with it. From quirky looks to everyday minimal-but-chic looks, it’s refreshing to see various kinds of fashion statement especially in the famous Harajuku Street area.

Unfortunately I do have a hard time buying a decent pair of jeans because of the sizing. I have few pairs of palazzo pants I bought back in Malaysia but I find it more warming to wear jeans in cold seasons.

Peaceful

I asked my husband what is the thing he likes about Japan, and he answered this. Of course, I disagree at first, but when I mull over it, it’s true at a certain point.

The neighborhood is usually quiet, even though your apartment is sandwiched in between 6 more.There is almost no noise in the street, and most of the time, it’s because they were minding their own business.

And causing disruption to other people is the last thing they would do. At least this is what I understand from my optimistic husband; which I aspire to be.

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Every place has its own pros and cons, the beauty and the drawback. I am thankful I can experience both in this land. After all, we’re travelers in this wide world.