When in Japan: Finally, the Kimono.

The architecture, the discipline, the simplicity and the serenity; achieving the maximum in the minimal; the tradition, the culture and the cuisine; the kimono, the Zen gardens and the Cherry Blossoms; Ikebana, the Samurai and the Geisha; the kimono, the past in the present—the list can go on.

There has always been an attraction and a fascination with everything Japanese, but where it roots from evades me. It won’t come as a surprise if I was Japanese in my past life. Perhaps a past life regression session might reveal what I was in the Land of the Rising Sun. A geisha, perhaps?

Japan has always been on my bucket list. Just like the rest of the countries I was able to visit, visualization and believing that I will be standing on the world’s busiest crosswalk and dining on their authentic cuisine, ramen, gyoza, sushi, and the lot, will make a dream a reality. It will happen.

The Universe paved the way. Japan happened.

Having a few travel miles earned plus low-fare promotions to destinations of choice was too good to be true. No time for second thoughts. I singled out Japan from the list. With my accumulated airline points, options were laid before me: travel to two regional destinations or choose one destination and travel in style. For a birthday trip, I opted for the latter. Japan on business class—booked. Happy birthday!

Booking a flight to Japan sans a visa? 

Honestly, I was confident I would get a Japanese visa. This was the same state of mind I had when I applied for the US visa. I knew I was going to get one. (Visualization and positive thinking were at work in these cases). The visas and entry stamps on the passport acquired from constant traveling carried weight on my application for a Japanese visa. And, with a friend hosting the visit, the road to Japan was paved smoother.

Travel documents all filled out and submitted.

It didn’t take long for the approval to come. After a weekend, I got the text message I was waiting for.

I have my Japanese Visa.

But a few people relayed unsolicited advice about the coming trip: “Bring lots of money,” “Japan is very expensive,” “The communication gap will be a problem,” and the rest. These had me worried—for a while at least. I am abiding by my general rule of world travel: experience the new place firsthand. Hearsay will be a hindrance to seeing how beautiful the world truly is.

It was the words of well-traveled friends that banished the remaining worries I had. The couple just came home from their Japanese sojourn and brought home exciting stories about the people, the food, and the place.

“You’ve been around, Jinggoy. Food cost is subjective. Fancy restaurants = expensive. Ramen houses = very affordable. "Know where to eat." "There are places to stay that will fit your budget." "If you get lost, ask for directions." "The locals know how to speak English in Tokyo." "The Japanese are polite and willing to help."

Aaah, words of encouragement. The Universe is reassuring me that Japan awaits me.

I am ready as well.

I boarded the plane.

Another adventure begins.

Don’t let the stories sway you from visiting Japan.