Fifteen years ago, I arrived in Japan with a suitcase full of dreams and not much else. I knew almost nothing of the language, even less of the cultural codes, and had only a vague idea of how long I would actually stay.

As it turns out, 15 years go by pretty fast.

I’ve experienced so much since then. I’ve danced in local summer festivals, worn kimono for ceremonies I once only saw in movies, and slowly, layer by layer, built a life here that feels strangely — beautifully — like my own. Japan, with all its seasons and silences, became home in ways I couldn’t have planned for.

But despite all of that... I still mess up. Regularly. Often with just enough flair to remind myself: “Ah yes, you are still an outsider.”

Here are a few of my greatest hits:

• Shinjuku Station? I somehow keep convincing myself I’ve mastered it. And yet, I still end up at the wrong platform, walking in tight circles, muttering “this is impossible” under my breath.

• Going cashless like a Tokyo local… until I have to awkwardly ask the table next to me at a café if they can sell me ¥1000 via PayPay. (Bless them, they did.)

• Boarding the right train, in the wrong kind. Because in Japan, a train can go in the right direction… and still skip your stop entirely.

• Sunburn at Izu Beach in September. Every year, I underestimate the Japanese sun. Every year, the sun wins.

Even after 15 years, these small embarrassments make me laugh. They remind me how deep — and how delightful — the culture here can be. Living in Japan is like learning a language you’ll never fully finish. But that’s also part of the charm, isn’t it?

What I’ve gained over these years goes far beyond what can be photographed or posted. It’s in the gentle nods from neighbors, the seasonal greetings at the post office, the tiny shrines on street corners I pass every day and still sometimes stop at.

It’s also in the friendships — both old and new — that carried me through hard winters and hot summers. Some of you have been part of this journey from the very beginning, others I’ve met along the way. Either way, I’m grateful beyond words.

To Japan — thank you for these 15 years. To everyone who has been part of it — thank you, truly. Here's to whatever comes next. ✨

👘 15 years of kimono memories
🫶 One heart, very full

In Yamanashi Prefecture I discovered Habanobo (端場坊), a temple stay that has been welcoming travelers for more than 750 years. Unlike a ryokan or hotel, this is a true shukubō experience where guests live as part of the temple community, taking part in daily practice and finding peace in the surrounding mountains.

During my stay I joined the monks for the evening chanting of the Lotus Sutra, ate beautifully prepared shōjin ryōri (temple cuisine), and walked the famous 287 stone steps up to Kuonji Temple at sunrise. Each moment was both humbling and inspiring.

Habanobo is located on sacred Mount Minobu, the spiritual heart of Nichiren Buddhism. From the temple grounds you can explore hidden pagodas, centuries-old cherry trees, and on clear days even see Mount Fuji in the distance. The atmosphere is calm, authentic, and far away from mass tourism.

In my latest video on "Onsen with Hansen", I take you with me to experience this unforgettable templestay. You will see the rituals, the food, the quiet mornings, and the beauty of Yamanashi’s sacred landscape.

👉 Watch the full video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aI1TJijBilI&feature=youtu.be

If you are interested in Japanese culture, spiritual travel, or simply want to discover something new in Yamanashi, a templestay at Habanobo is one of the most unique experiences you can have. Would you try it yourself?