Japan has always been on my travel list, but I finally had the chance to visit earlier this year. As someone who hasn't traveled extensively, Japan quickly became my favorite country of the few I have been to. I might have a bit of recency bias, but everything about my trip was so amazing that I couldn't help but fall in love with the place! 😊

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The Land of Contrasts

What struck me first about Japan was its incredible balance of ancient tradition and modern innovation. Walking through the streets of Tokyo felt like stepping into the future with its neon lights, high-tech gadgets, and bustling crowds. Yet, just a train ride away, I found myself in peaceful temples and serene landscapes that seemed to transport me back in time. The coexistence of these two worlds is something that I found truly unique and fascinating! 😍

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Nature at Its Finest

Japan's natural beauty is nothing short of breathtaking. From the cherry blossoms that line the streets in spring to the golden hues of autumn leaves, every season has its charm. However, during my visit in winter, I was blessed to witness the snow-capped mountains, quaint towns, and traditional houses dusted with snow. The countryside seemed to transform into a serene winter wonderland. It was as if each scene belonged on a postcard, with snow gently falling and creating a sense of tranquility that is hard to find elsewhere! 🤗

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A First-Time Snowboarding Adventure

One of the main highlights of my trip was my first-ever Snowboarding experience. The ski mountains in Japan are majestic, with vast slopes and stunning vistas. I was in awe of the scale and beauty of these mountains. My wife and I took lessons together, and even though we fell countless times, we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. The instructors were patient and helpful, guiding us through the basics and making sure we had fun while learning. It was a thrilling experience that I'll never forget, and I can't wait to hit the slopes again on my next trip! 💪

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_{As a complete beginner, I am considering these basic S-turns a success for my first attempt at the sport!}

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A Foodie's Paradise

Next, let us talk about the food. Japan is undoubtedly a paradise for food lovers, and for me, food is a significant part of why I travel! I am sure you can guess what is my favorite cuisine in my favorite country, right? During this trip, I indulged in Japanese cuisine to my heart's content. Even though back in Singapore, I can get my hands on these Japanese dishes, the quality of each dish in Japan is simply unmatched. There is just no comparison. The freshness of the seafood, the meticulous seasoning, and the attention to detail in every flavor and presentation of each dish are simply mind-blowing! 🤤

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Why I Can't Wait to Return

There are just so much to explore in Japan that I barely scratched the surface on my first visit. I didn't get the chance to experience the tranquility of Kyoto's temples or the vibrant street life in Osaka. I know there are countless hidden gems waiting for me to discover.

One thing is certain: I am already planning my return trips to Japan, and if you haven't visited yet, I highly recommend adding it to your travel list — you won't be disappointed! However, if you have already been, I would greatly appreciate any additional recommendations you could provide me with. It would give me the chance to explore even more on my future visits! 😁

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Thank you for taking the time to read my post, and I look forward to sharing more next time!

PEACE OUT, @AK08

_{All images used in this post were taken from my iPhone}