Finding my Voice Again in Japan: A Reflection on Creativity, Community, and Purpose
A few years ago, I found myself frustrated with the career I had worked so hard to build. It was a life that I had carefully designed and filled with the things that were supposed to make me happy. I finally had a job that blended my love of business with my passion for teaching it. From the outside, it seemed like I had reached a major milestone, but inside, something was missing.
Rediscovering Creativity Through Writing
Somewhere along the way, my creativity became overshadowed by the work I produced for companies and freelance clients. Anyone who works in marketing knows that even when you’re “creative,” your work still has to fit a brand’s voice and style. I missed art for the sake of creating, and more specifically, I missed writing.
As a historian, storytelling is woven into everything I do. Sharing people’s experiences, amplifying voices, and connecting people through shared ideas and commonalities is what led me into management, marketing, and eventually teaching business. Writing again felt like returning to a part of myself I had neglected for years.
Why I Started Writing about Japan (again)
As I spent more time in Japan, I noticed how much misinformation and oversimplified content circulates online. Many creators produce beautiful works, but others focus only on the most Instagrammable spots, generalize their experiences, or create controversial (and sometimes inaccurate) videos. I wanted to share the Japan I studied, lived in, and explored. I hadn’t really written much about Japan since graduate school.
I wanted to share some lesser-visited gems, local culture and traditions, off-the-beaten-path travel, realistic tips, and information about life in Japan. There are plenty of guides about the same five shrines or temples in Kyoto. I wanted something different. My goal was to create something honest, more nuanced, and more connected to life and people here. That eventually led to not only creating content but also to helping travelers plan customized trips and supporting businesses in reaching more people.
Creating Content That Focuses on Japan
When I started this blog and my Instagram account, I had no intention of creating viral posts. I simply wanted to write and offer useful, accurate information to travelers who wanted to experience more sides of Japan than just the popular places.
My background in history, business, and marketing naturally shaped the direction of this project. I wanted not only to tell stories but also help people navigate Japan more respectfully and confidently. That’s why a portion of what I create focuses on countryside travel, cultural experiences, small businesses, local festivals, and regional foods.
Connecting with People Across Japan
As I traveled, I made it a point to talk to, and truly listen to, people. I will always be somewhat of an outsider here since I’m not Japanese, but I aim to honor the culture and build connections with those around me. This awareness shapes how I research, write, and recommend places.
Those conversations inspired me to look at travel from the perspective of local communities. Some of the questions I often consider or ask are:
What do they hope visitors understand or experience?
What challenges do they face?
How can tourism support them instead of overwhelming them?
These questions helped shape my approach to writing about Japan in a way that is respectful, research-based, and people-focused.
How This Turned Into Travel Consulting
When I began sharing my experiences, friends and colleagues reached out for help planning their trips. What started as casual advice gradually turned into Japan itinerary consulting.
Today, I design custom itineraries tailored to each traveler’s interest and needs. I focus on providing ideas for unique experiences, smooth travel, cultural understanding, and more. I don’t handle bookings, but I provide detailed plans and stay available throughout their trip to answer any questions. Clients make all of their own bookings based on their own preferences. I also include basic language tips and cultural notes to encourage responsible travel.
Supporting Local Businesses in Japan
Over time, I have also been fortunate enough to collaborate with local businesses, groups, and community organizations. Sometimes this means helping with marketing strategies. Other times it involves highlighting them on my platforms. Not every project appears on my blog, but each one is meaningful and helps support places and businesses often overlooked by mainstream travel media.
Looking Ahead to 2026
In 2026, I plan to revisit my favorite prefectures and explore new areas across Japan while continuing to work full-time. This past year reminded me of the fragility of life. After experiencing a health scare, I am more determined than ever to appreciate every opportunity and travel as much as possible. This experience clarified what I want to keep doing and building.
Gratitude for a Year of Growth
As this year comes to a close, I am grateful for what I accomplished, what I learned, and the community that has grown around me. Writing about Japan, connecting with travelers and locals, and supporting local communities have been very fulfilling. I look forward to sharing even more of my life and Japan in the coming year.
I am excited for what 2026 will bring and thankful that I chose to focus on the work and experiences that truly bring me joy.
Let me know in the comments your best moment of 2026, goals for 2027, or just something you saw on my blog or social media that you enjoyed!
