You know you’re in Japan the moment you step off the plane. The familiar jingles on the trains and at the platforms. The orderly manner amongst the crowds. The smell of ramen and dashi stock in the air. Over the years I’ve visited Japan around 10 times by now (for work, for fun, solo, without kids, with kids, summer, autumn, winter) and it’s a country where I at once can feel so familiar AND unfamiliar all at the same time, and absolutely love. There was no real agenda this short trip except just to be here again after 3.5 years and I got reminded of why I love this country so much - from basking in the unique sounds of the country, observing its culture and dedication to craftsmanship, to indulging in its cuisine, Japan is a great place to go solo. I often write about how the senses heightened when travelling and nowhere do I find this more true than in Japan where sights, sounds, tastes and smells all come together to create an experience that keeps one coming back again and again. Till next year.

Places that made an impression:

• Kyoto: Kishin Kitchen Kyoto // Enko-ji Temple // Ginjo Ramen Kubota // Gion Komori // Tan // Nanaya Kyoto Sanjo

• Osaka: Takoriki // Ramen Hayato