How the Japanese do it.
This month, I shot off on a long-awaited Dad/Daughter trip to Japan—a dream we've had for years. Beyond the allure of exploring and checking out the sights, I always find myself examining culture, especially when it comes to another passion of mine, looking after our wellbeing. Japan, certainly has a rich history of traditions and customs and proved to be the ideal classroom for some lessons! Here are my top three insights into how the Japanese look after both themselves and their community, gleaned from our trip:
#1. Kindness
The ethos of kindness filtrates so many facets of Japanese society, leaving us with a welcomed impression. Whether it's a warm smile from a stranger or a selfless act of assistance, such as guiding lost travellers through the maze of train stations, the Japanese demonstrate an unwavering commitment to hospitality. During our travels, I noticed countless acts of kindness; from a young person giving us 10 minutes of their time to help navigate a bustling train station, to an elderly man offering guidance and support to find an ATM, they are givers at heart. These encounters reaffirmed my belief in the impact of human connection and the simple joy of either receiving or extending kindness to others.
#2. Calmness
In a world characterised by a lot of noise and activity, the Japanese embody a remarkable sense of calmness and composure. Even in the bustling metropolises of Tokyo, the most populous city in the world, you could stop at any given moment and notice the calmness and quietness of people. This was even the case when we visited Shibuya Crossing, where it’s said that up to 2, 500 people cross every two minutes! Whether amidst the urban hustle of Tokyo or exploring the quieter surroundings of Hakone, we noticed that the Japanese approach life with a sense of balance and quiet respect for one another.
#3. Preservation of Heritage
Japan's rich cultural heritage is evident in every aspect of daily life. We noticed this in the preservation of historical sites like the temple Todai-ji just outside of Kyoto, to the celebration of various ancient traditions. Despite the country's embrace of modernity and technological innovation, there remains a deep-seated respect for the past. This is reflected in the way the Japanese take pride in their art, cuisine, and customs, enjoying these simple pleasures. Towards the end of our trip, we stayed at a traditional Japanese Onsen. Soaking ourselves in the waters of volcanic springs, we felt a million dollars afterwards! It was a reminder of the timeless wisdom embedded in Japanese culture, and the importance of taking time out for rejuvenation, even more so in fast-paced modern society.
Our Dad/Daughter trip to Japan was not just a trip of exploration and investing in our relationship, but being reminded of the importance of basic principles like kindness, calmness, and preserving practices from the past. As I reflect on these lessons learned during our getaway to Japan, I am reminded of the capacity for growth and transformation when looking at how other cultures do life. Until we meet again, Japan, arigatou!