I am Japanese born in Japan and I was the same way when I was younger, I did not realize such a rich culture our people have near by and just being impatient. Now I am in my 50’s and I enjoy Japan so much.
Architecture is something I never appreciated when I was younger. And how common people lived their everyday lives in the past. There’s something I find fascinating about the clothes they wore, the food they cooked, how they did their housework etc
wow, fabulous thought provoking video. Everyday I live I reflect on the previous day. Every time I return to Japan I revisit places, it just makes me really aware of life.
Dear Chani, I absolutely appreciate every word that you speak in this video in describing your heartfelt experience and deep understanding of the values of traditions that can be shared by a people, or any people anywhere else in the world, where the common denominator of goodwill, kindness, love, respect and reverence, is to be shared, not only with people here and now, but also with people across time and generations going forward. Thank you for this fabulous sharing.
Japan is wonderful country . I visit every years since I retired 10 year ago , this year I spend two months July and August in Kyushu , Kansai and Tokyo followed all the summer festivals of these regions . Summer is hot but summer is the japan culture festivals across the country and they are spectacular to see .
I think revisiting places that we have once been to will always provide a deeper experience than the first. It’s like, the first visit is to experience everything that is on the surface while subsequent visits feel less rushed due to the memories that already exist, giving you time to enjoy one thing at a time. It’s great you got to go back with newfound gratitude. Some never get the chance to revisit a place from their past.
What an amazing adventure. That would be an awesome tour to take. While my wife and I had 10 days in Japan we found that everyone was so polite and friendly that it enhanced our overall experience.
I've thought about thos when I've returned to a place years later- it's not that I didn't see or appreciate things the first time around, it's simply that I've changed with the passing years and therefor look at and appreciate things differently. Getting older is a privilege and I do enjoy the ride! Thank you for bringing us along on your journey and showing us so much more of Japan.
I walked the whole Shikoku pilgrimage this spring, and I love that the locals try to attract more visitors to participate in this special experience! Just a quick note on temple cuisine: it is traditionally vegan, but a lot of temples actually don’t serve strictly vegan meals anymore. If you are to stay at a temple in Shikoku, please ask beforehand. It’s mostly possible to arrange for meals without meat etc., but the temples need to know beforehand to be able to prepare accordingly!
As a former TV news videographer, it was interesting seeing you being interviewed. When I was in Tokyo for the Olympics in 2021 I was also interviewed by some sort of camera crew. I never did find out who they were. They wanted my opinion about being a foreigner attending the Olympics.
That was very sweet. Your experiences match my own when visiting traditional sites in Japan. The local people very much respond with much kindness to foreigners who demonstrate a sincere interest in and respect for their traditional culture. I am in the fortunate position of being married to a Japanese woman who is the daughter of a Buddhist priest, and was raised in a temple that was built 400 years ago. Her family has always treated me wonderfully, including me in their family rituals, such as praying to their ancestors on New Year’s Day. I fully understand how privileged I am as a foreigner to share in such intimate moments with my Japanese family.
Gee Chani, I really enjoyed that. Thanks so much, I felt I was 'in the moment' . I've spent almost 4 fast-paced decades in Asia and recently retired to Hokkaido with my Japanese wife. So much for this old fella to learn, appreciate. and [yes] grow.
Oh wow, you're now a movie star. I love Japanese food and their culture, in 2017 I dragged my (Japanese) wife to a sword-smith, she was absolutely blown away at how fascinating it was. We had to trek from Kyoto using 2 trains, one hotel bus and then a private car. A bit of a run around but it was worth it.
What a wonderful experience for you, both exciting and peaceful at the same time. I love that your videos show every day Japan. It’s great to see videos that aren’t just touristy stuff.
Oh my, that tour looks so wonderful! So many beautiful experiences, great people and wonderful surroundings. Thank you for letting us in on your trip ❤
What exactly do you mean by "protected"? What exactly needs to be protected, and against what, and by whom? Also, the Japan of today is not the Japan of a century ago, which wasn't the Japan of a century before that. How would you ever define "Japan's culture"? There are plenty of young Japanese that are not interested in traditional Japanese culture and feel like their country is backwards. Shall we force them to think otherwise? "You should be wearing kimono! Why are you wearing jeans and T-shirts? Those are western clothing. Stay traditional!", "Why did you write ￥ instead of 円? You are destroying Japanese culture by not using kanji!" Where do you draw the line? Anyway, all countries change over time. The Japan you love today will one day not exist. Even the physical borders of Japan have changed in my lifetime.
Thanks Chani, I will definitely look more into this area of Japan, I want to someday do a pilgrimage. It is amazing how when we are young, we look to the future and as we get older we reminisce of the past, but the perfect place is here in the present where we immerse ourselves in our life and truly experience it. If only we knew how important that was back then. Wonderful wisdom Chani.
I spent a few months over 3 visits in Kochi City and I always remember those times and that place fondly. I defiantly made many mistakes as a young selfish person, but I would love to go back and experience Kochi again with a more mature mindset.
That's really great. You're getting to really meet new people and spread your social muscles. That's fantastic, and will really enrich your life in Japan both short-, and long-term.
I'm excited to be able to enjoy and experience the culture more in future visits without being so involved with renovations and yard work hahaha, so awesome to see your life flourishing more and more over there! 😊
What a beautiful tour...and a beautiful way to share some self-reflection. I can never say just how much I always enjoy your videos, Chani. You're a breath of fresh air. 😊❤ Xoxo Robin
Honestly, I think that is a good sign: that we can grow and appreciate what we were less aware of in our youth. It’s so important to celebrate that we can appreciate these important gems as we have lived more life and have a broader emotional and spiritual scope. We can more fully grasp and appreciate such incredible traditions, etc… I hope we can all try not to be too hard on ourselves for the foolishness and impatience of youth. Instead, let’s be grateful for fresh eyes open to new magnificent discoveries at every age.
Wow! What great classes and food! I love classes like you took. I am a traveler that reads ahead of a trip and I like to do what the natives do, eat what they eat, wear what they wear, etc. Great job painting the mask and those lanterns were beautiful!
I visited Japan many years ago and also did a tour. I loved Japan! I do wish I did more tours and learn more about the culture. During lockdown I discovered the tradition of Boro and Sashiko and I use that practice in my everyday life since then. Clothes are repaired and not discarded and I make quilts out of old clothes that cannot be repaired. Zokin cloths are made out of old tea towels. What an amazing experience for you Chani! You are a wonderful Ambassador for your adopted country. 🇯🇵
omg Chani, you were on TV! now you're a celebrity haha Thx for sharing your experiences and advice. Sometimes is difficult to take a moment to appreciate the now. But hearing your experience makes me want to be more present. どもありがとうございます!
I travel to Japan regularly and the more I go the slower I get. The first trip I raced around trying to see everything I could and not soaking it in or taking my time.
Chani, your videos are always interesting! I think most of us are impatient when we’re young. So wonderful you had the opportunity to create some dishes during the tour. ❤️💕🇨🇦
Excellent video! Ah the regrets of youth 🤪 but as you know “you can’t put an old head on young shoulders “ - goodness how many times did we hear that? And so now we see it’s true 🤓
i can really relate to this, i left Kyushu in 1995, I've been wanting to return there and bathe in natsukashsa and spend up on the foods i miss, to my hearts content... TABEHODAI!, NOMIHODAI!, HAKIHODAI?
Sitting here watching with a tear in my eye. I lived in Japan for 2 years from 1989 and totally fell in love with the country. We got to do a lot but there is so much I still want to do and see. I love all of your videos but this one has touched me the most so far. The Japanese are so welcoming when we show an interest in them and their rich culture. Thanks for sharing this.
I did something similar to this when I was living over in China; a friend of mine there is a Buddhist monk and I was able to stay at their version of a shukubo, all the food there was similarly plant based and I was even allowed to pray with the monks at 6am; it's definitely an experience I remember and I'm glad you got to experience something similar as well Chani. Also the clean, crisp mountain air after staying in the city was most certainly a welcome change haha.
Loved every moment! I greatly admire your openness and bravery in trying new things and stepping outside your comfort zones. I think with age, I’m 62, comes a lot more of being present and not the rushing that can be part of youth, wanting to get on to “the next thing.” Thank you for taking us along on this trip you made, you were on TV!!!!! How cool is that?!!!!!
I thoroughly enjoyed this video. The tour you were on, looked amazing! In any culture, I think it’s so important to maintain traditions. As without them, so much else is lost as well. Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful adventure!
Excellant video. This month I will be returning to Japan after 32 years. Now a retired Veteran, I've saved places to visit and things to do in Google Maps. This time around I'll have all the time in the world to visit new places and perhaps experience how things have changed in some of my favorite areas around Tokyo. Thanks to Chani and UA-camrs like her, a person can explore Japan in real time via live feeds and get the most current info about living in Japan. Most of my questions have been answered by watching videos. I'm all 😃😃 because I'm ready to start a new chapter. Sunshine Shoulders in the Philippines is known for saying "Get off the couch" I agree 🛫 🛫
What a beautiful place Chani 😍 I would love to visit it. When I was in my 20's life moved at such a fast pace. Looking back I think it was because I had only left school in my middle teens and my wings had been unclipped. Freedom. I rushed around soaking up new information and adjusting to life as an adult. I didn't start to calm down until my 30's when I started to become more comfortable with myself. I visited a beautiful seaside place, in North Devon in England, 5 years ago by myself. I explored places that I'd always wanted to go and it cleared my head. I distinctly remember bobbing gently up and down on the small boat that I took to Dartmouth Castle. I felt pure joy and happiness 😊. I soaked up the tranquility of the English Riviera. I also took my first successful night photography shots in Torquay harbour. Pure bliss ❤ I'm so glad that you had a good time. Please don't be hard on yourself. Remember, your wings had been unclipped too and you were at the start of an amazing adventure. Take care Chani. Love and hugs to Millie 🐾😻
4:46 wow the autumn sunset scene with rippling cloudy sky and tidy streets is something else, coming from an Aussie - we got nature's beauty bit its always eye opening to see even man made architecture can come to gether with the sunset to make that pleasing to the eye evening scene
Congratulations..you got to be on Japanese TV..the food looked so good...I was about to complain and then I saw Millie at the very end. So in love with Millie..❤❤❤
I just love to watch your vlogs, your honesty and openness is so refreshing and your search for real Japan..you open up Japan to me, years of not knowing or really understanding life in Japan and it's people, thank you for opening up a new horizon and learning the value of life in Japan
It's amazing that I found you on UA-cam because I am planning on a trip to Japan hopefully in the near future. I'm not sure about living there but I do plan on spending some time there. Watching you has put my dream into motion. Years ago I spent time with a Japanese family and have loved the traditions ever since.
Oof, I can relate to that opening sentence in the description all too well. I feel the same about my time as an exchange student in Kobe 30 years ago this year. Like, to the day. I was always stressed about being broke and missing out on what my new friends were doing that I was either always feeling sick or not being a great guest towards my host family. And if you remember what happened in Kobe 30 years ago, you know how well that visit ended.
Chani you summed up very nicely why traditions are so important to a culture. lt really sickens me that there are people who want to do away with them and make the world a bland boring place. l thoroughly enjoyed this interesting tour and look forward to more insights into Japanese life. 💗
Have no regrets about the past. Priorities are different when one is younger. Whether you knew it at the time or not, it gave you a taste of Japan that would lead you back here to live. Nice that you went back and got to look around with a different outlook! I didn't travel much in my younger years so I don't recall that I missed out on anything specific that would change if I went today. Thank you for sharing this video and the tour!
Such a sweet young lady in those old pix! I was in Shiga-ken 31 years ago this week. Oh boy the time flies. I was able to go back once and see my old conversation partner 18 years ago. Nara is a place I love the most the first time and then 3 more times after. I am going to be in between jobs soon so maybe somewhere in between is a good time to go for an extended trip. My old director from our school in Hikone performs with a Bunraku troupe. I think he is in Takamatsu. If you want the information, I can send you a link if they has a list of performance tour dates.
Chani what a lovely experience! I am shy too and don’t venture out to tours even here in my own town. Every place has some history and there is often someone willing to share for anyone who will listen. I suppose the key is to never stop learning and to say yes as much as possible to new experiences.
I'm pretty early; came here straight from watching "Perfect Days", funnily enough. In recent years I have returned to Germany, somewhere I visited as a child and as a young adult 30 years ago. It's definitely interesting what you notice after 30 more years on earth!
Your videos are keeping me hyped for my move. So many last minute issues holding us back right now... keep pushing the date "one more month". I really hope to be in Japan by December.
I really enjoyed this video, I feel more motivated to look further joy in small things. I’m very curious about religion in Japan, I’d love to see more temples and learn about the Buddhist and Shinto faiths in Japan! Wonderful work Chani, please keep it up!
What a beautiful experience! You are so fortunate. I think being able to fully appreciate many of life’s blessings is something that comes with maturity and age. In reflecting on the many experiences I had as a young man in a foreign country, I know I missed so much. I was in too much of a hurry, too self absorbed, too closed to the opportunities to appreciate the culture and spirit of where I was. If I were to return, I hope I would be as open as you showed yourself to be in your adoptive country.
What a wonderful tour! Thank you for taking us along. I stayed in a Buddhist temple one night and had one shojin ryori meal. We then watched the morning worship service before departing. You brought the memory back to me. I think we all look back on how we were when we were younger, and wish that we could relive some experiences again. Hi Millie!
Hi Chani. I really enjoy your videos (especially those with Millie!) and can definitely relate to returning somewhere you visited long ago. I studied in France for two semesters 15 years ago and just completed a "pilgrimage" over the last two weeks. When I was first in France I too was very shy and didn't allow myself to fully enjoy the experience. However, this trip was the complete opposite, and I've been inspired to follow my dream of moving to France to teach Business. Thank you for sharing your story and being so vulnerable throughout the process. You're an inspiration and have really helped me become more comfortable with the thought of making a major life change. Keep up the good work and give Millie a pet for me. Je vous souhaite la meilleure année et merci d'avoir partagé votre histoire !
That food looked sooo beautiful, tooo beautiful to eat😅🫣❤️ you are a clever lady Chani❤🤗 and you have the heart on the right place. Japan is lucky to have you🥹❤️we learn has we go🤗 the only thing we can do is to be open minded and open to the teachings that come our way. If we aren’t the first time than we will the second🥰🤗❤️one of the reasons I like Asian country’s is their ability to keep traditions alive😌so fun to watch you on tv🤩🤗my first impression of Japanese people is that they are extremely warmhearted, friendly and respectful people. ( I wrote this before you said it😂❤️) That’s how they come through!👍🏻Would love to visit and experience it myself ❤️❤️❤️we have one Japanese lady working in my child’s kindergarten here in Norway , she is so sweet and kind. Really lovely lady🤗
Stoked, coming to Kagawa! Just came back from Gibraltar, and litsening to the elderly (but not much older than me!) Mediterranean ladies talking Llanito (English, Spanish, Genoan, Portuquese), bantering and joking, I didn't understand why I felt so moved, then I realised it was because they reminded me of the French Mediterranean ladies, I met so many years ago when I was 16 and first moved to France. Back then I didn't understand them. Now, I can understand a lot, but don't need to. It was like a time capsule, back to what made me love this place so much.
This has to be one of my favorite of your videos. What a great experience! I completely identify with your observation about how much we miss when young and impatient. I spent 2 years in Ethiopia in my early twenties and I realize now, as a much older person, that I missed so much of the culture and history of the country. I know that, if I visit the country again now, it would be with a much more open and receptive mind than before.
This tour looked so fun! I’ve never thought to take one on a trip, and now I’m really interested the next time I visit Japan. Also, lovely thoughts and reflection on what you’ve learned over the years. I really enjoyed this video! 😊
What a love Y and enriching experience. You are a delight and I am so happy to have discovered your channel. I’ve visited Japan but not these small areas off the typical tourist spots. Looking forward to more videos from you.
It feels natural to be lively during youth and perhaps sometimes tradition and ritual wasn't valued in a rush to move on to the next thing. That's what's special about being young 🌱 and then we grow wiser and appreciate everyday moments even more. At least that's what I've experienced upon reflection. I'm also shy and tend to tag along when it comes to tour groups, but sometimes I meet lovely people that are willing to connect with me and get to know me a little bit better. I cant wait to dig in to learning japanese.
Returning shortly after a long absence since the teaching ‘daze’. I’m keen to see what has and hasn’t changed as well as how I have also changed. Great video!
I only quickly visited the temple in Zentsuji during a trip to Shikoku, as we were staying in nearby Kotohira. The area and Shikoku in general are such gems. I do hope they get more tourists there for their economy, but also I hope they won't get too many. Being basically the only foreign tourists around was certainly part of the charm of the island.
Another amazing video Chani...ThankYou!! Addin Zentsuji to the list as we speak. You are so lucky to be there! What you said about missing the first time you are in a place really resonated. I miss the first time I went to Japan 20 or so years ago. It was a very different place and I so regret not travelling there more often.
Αn ambassador couldn't have promoted shukoku better ❤ I had always wondered about some things you mentioned like the dolls you painted or the tea ceremony, if I were there I would definitely take that guided trip...I love those 4 principles/thoughts at the end of the video
I hope to return to Japan next year after my health improves, and maybe I'll be able to visit the places I used to know there. Since you asked, yes I have had a similar experience, with my hometown. Probably most people who grew up in very small towns and couldn't wait to move away can see the place from a new perspective after a few decades. 40 years passed for me. And then I returned when my father needed extra care in his final years. Not much had changed, but I certainly appreciated the place (and the people) a lot more than when I was a kid.
Everything you've said resonated with me also. With age you get to appreciate everything through the lease of life's experiences and what you now value. Returning to and living in Sapporo 28 years later has taught me similar learnings to your journey. It's also the smells, sounds and scenery that I find are more powerful the older you get as it sparks memories and experiences. Great video!!!
I am Japanese born in Japan and I was the same way when I was younger, I did not realize such a rich culture our people have near by and just being impatient. Now I am in my 50’s and I enjoy Japan so much.
Architecture is something I never appreciated when I was younger. And how common people lived their everyday lives in the past. There’s something I find fascinating about the clothes they wore, the food they cooked, how they did their housework etc
Chani love your spirituality
"the journey within
is the longest road
and may take a lifetime"
wow, fabulous thought provoking video. Everyday I live I reflect on the previous day. Every time I return to Japan I revisit places, it just makes me really aware of life.
Chani, can I just say that you are such a great ambassador for this country. I really hope to visit it in a few years, thanks to you. I
My wife grew up next to Zentsuji temple. Much of her childhood was spent playing in the expansive temple grounds.
Great video Chani.
Oh wow!
Dear Chani, I absolutely appreciate every word that you speak in this video in describing your heartfelt experience and deep understanding of the values of traditions that can be shared by a people, or any people anywhere else in the world, where the common denominator of goodwill, kindness, love, respect and reverence, is to be shared, not only with people here and now, but also with people across time and generations going forward. Thank you for this fabulous sharing.
I’m so glad you felt this way. I really learnt so much going back to this place 🩷
@@ChaniJapan Dear Chani, it is so refreshing and priceless to hear a voice like yours in today's troubled world.
Sounds fabulous… thank you for sharing ❤
Japan is wonderful country . I visit every years since I retired 10 year ago , this year I spend two months July and August in Kyushu , Kansai and Tokyo followed all the summer festivals of these regions . Summer is hot but summer is the japan culture festivals across the country and they are spectacular to see .
I think revisiting places that we have once been to will always provide a deeper experience than the first. It’s like, the first visit is to experience everything that is on the surface while subsequent visits feel less rushed due to the memories that already exist, giving you time to enjoy one thing at a time. It’s great you got to go back with newfound gratitude. Some never get the chance to revisit a place from their past.
What an amazing adventure. That would be an awesome tour to take.
While my wife and I had 10 days in Japan we found that everyone was so polite and friendly that it enhanced our overall experience.
So true. Everyone was just so kind and generous😃
Your channel is the best SOOO FUN when you show inside stores please show all your errands it's fascinating
Ok I will do that! 😃
I've thought about thos when I've returned to a place years later- it's not that I didn't see or appreciate things the first time around, it's simply that I've changed with the passing years and therefor look at and appreciate things differently. Getting older is a privilege and I do enjoy the ride! Thank you for bringing us along on your journey and showing us so much more of Japan.
I walked the whole Shikoku pilgrimage this spring, and I love that the locals try to attract more visitors to participate in this special experience! Just a quick note on temple cuisine: it is traditionally vegan, but a lot of temples actually don’t serve strictly vegan meals anymore. If you are to stay at a temple in Shikoku, please ask beforehand. It’s mostly possible to arrange for meals without meat etc., but the temples need to know beforehand to be able to prepare accordingly!
As a former TV news videographer, it was interesting seeing you being interviewed. When I was in Tokyo for the Olympics in 2021 I was also interviewed by some sort of camera crew. I never did find out who they were. They wanted my opinion about being a foreigner attending the Olympics.
That was very sweet. Your experiences match my own when visiting traditional sites in Japan. The local people very much respond with much kindness to foreigners who demonstrate a sincere interest in and respect for their traditional culture. I am in the fortunate position of being married to a Japanese woman who is the daughter of a Buddhist priest, and was raised in a temple that was built 400 years ago. Her family has always treated me wonderfully, including me in their family rituals, such as praying to their ancestors on New Year’s Day. I fully understand how privileged I am as a foreigner to share in such intimate moments with my Japanese family.
Gee Chani, I really enjoyed that. Thanks so much, I felt I was 'in the moment' . I've spent almost 4 fast-paced decades in Asia and recently retired to Hokkaido with my Japanese wife. So much for this old fella to learn, appreciate. and [yes] grow.
Glad you enjoyed it and came along for the adventure 😃
Oh wow, you're now a movie star. I love Japanese food and their culture, in 2017 I dragged my (Japanese) wife to a sword-smith, she was absolutely blown away at how fascinating it was. We had to trek from Kyoto using 2 trains, one hotel bus and then a private car. A bit of a run around but it was worth it.
That’s sounds like a great experience. A swordsmith!
This may be my favorite episode of your amazing channel. I’m cheering you on from Florida, USA. Yay Chani!
Yay! Thank you!
What a wonderful experience for you, both exciting and peaceful at the same time. I love that your videos show every day Japan. It’s great to see videos that aren’t just touristy stuff.
This is EXACTLY the kind of tour I love and glad we got to go along with you on this trip! 😊
I'm so glad!
Thanks for taking us along on your trip Chani. In our busy world it is good to slow down and reflect. A much appreciated and timely reminder for me.
Oh my, that tour looks so wonderful! So many beautiful experiences, great people and wonderful surroundings. Thank you for letting us in on your trip ❤
Lovely people 🩷
You didn't make a mistake. Our needs and priorities are different at all stages of life!
Japan is truly a world treasure that needs to be protected. May its beautiful culture last forever.
What exactly do you mean by "protected"? What exactly needs to be protected, and against what, and by whom? Also, the Japan of today is not the Japan of a century ago, which wasn't the Japan of a century before that. How would you ever define "Japan's culture"? There are plenty of young Japanese that are not interested in traditional Japanese culture and feel like their country is backwards. Shall we force them to think otherwise? "You should be wearing kimono! Why are you wearing jeans and T-shirts? Those are western clothing. Stay traditional!", "Why did you write ￥ instead of 円? You are destroying Japanese culture by not using kanji!" Where do you draw the line? Anyway, all countries change over time. The Japan you love today will one day not exist. Even the physical borders of Japan have changed in my lifetime.
I agree. Extremely strict , extremely limited immigration
Thanks Chani, I will definitely look more into this area of Japan, I want to someday do a pilgrimage. It is amazing how when we are young, we look to the future and as we get older we reminisce of the past, but the perfect place is here in the present where we immerse ourselves in our life and truly experience it. If only we knew how important that was back then. Wonderful wisdom Chani.
I’m so glad you said that! It’s so true to enjoy the present 🩷
I spent a few months over 3 visits in Kochi City and I always remember those times and that place fondly. I defiantly made many mistakes as a young selfish person, but I would love to go back and experience Kochi again with a more mature mindset.
That's really great. You're getting to really meet new people and spread your social muscles. That's fantastic, and will really enrich your life in Japan both short-, and long-term.
I'm excited to be able to enjoy and experience the culture more in future visits without being so involved with renovations and yard work hahaha, so awesome to see your life flourishing more and more over there! 😊
Yes. I hope you get a break from the yard work!
What a beautiful tour...and a beautiful way to share some self-reflection. I can never say just how much I always enjoy your videos, Chani. You're a breath of fresh air. 😊❤ Xoxo Robin
Honestly, I think that is a good sign: that we can grow and appreciate what we were less aware of in our youth. It’s so important to celebrate that we can appreciate these important gems as we have lived more life and have a broader emotional and spiritual scope. We can more fully grasp and appreciate such incredible traditions, etc… I hope we can all try not to be too hard on ourselves for the foolishness and impatience of youth. Instead, let’s be grateful for fresh eyes open to new magnificent discoveries at every age.
Wow! What great classes and food! I love classes like you took. I am a traveler that reads ahead of a trip and I like to do what the natives do, eat what they eat, wear what they wear, etc. Great job painting the mask and those lanterns were beautiful!
This was a lovely, thoughtful video. Your first time, you were just not ready…you were busy being 18!
I still need to go.
I visited Japan many years ago and also did a tour. I loved Japan! I do wish I did more tours and learn more about the culture. During lockdown I discovered the tradition of Boro and Sashiko and I use that practice in my everyday life since then. Clothes are repaired and not discarded and I make quilts out of old clothes that cannot be repaired. Zokin cloths are made out of old tea towels. What an amazing experience for you Chani! You are a wonderful Ambassador for your adopted country. 🇯🇵
omg Chani, you were on TV! now you're a celebrity haha
Thx for sharing your experiences and advice.
Sometimes is difficult to take a moment to appreciate the now. But hearing your experience makes me want to be more present.
どもありがとうございます!
I travel to Japan regularly and the more I go the slower I get. The first trip I raced around trying to see everything I could and not soaking it in or taking my time.
Yes! Slow lets you take it all in. There is so much in the small details 🩷
Wow🎉 that looks like a wonderful journey 😀 😊
It was! I really love Shikoku. 😃
Chani, your videos are always interesting! I think most of us are impatient when we’re young.
So wonderful you had the opportunity to create some dishes during the tour. ❤️💕🇨🇦
Excellent video!
Ah the regrets of youth 🤪
but as you know “you can’t put an old head on young shoulders “ - goodness how many times did we hear that?
And so now we see it’s true 🤓
Yes. Exactly 🩷
i can really relate to this, i left Kyushu in 1995, I've been wanting to return there and bathe in natsukashsa and spend up on the foods i miss, to my hearts content... TABEHODAI!, NOMIHODAI!, HAKIHODAI?
Time to go back for a visit!
Thank you for taking us with you on your outing, very informative😊
Sitting here watching with a tear in my eye. I lived in Japan for 2 years from 1989 and totally fell in love with the country. We got to do a lot but there is so much I still want to do and see. I love all of your videos but this one has touched me the most so far. The Japanese are so welcoming when we show an interest in them and their rich culture. Thanks for sharing this.
Fantastic video! That's as close as it gets to actually doing it yourself. You are so talented!
Thank you very much!
Such a great video Chani! I loved watching your experience in Shikoku and hope that you'll continue to share more rural/regional explorations!
Thank you! Will do!
I did something similar to this when I was living over in China; a friend of mine there is a Buddhist monk and I was able to stay at their version of a shukubo, all the food there was similarly plant based and I was even allowed to pray with the monks at 6am; it's definitely an experience I remember and I'm glad you got to experience something similar as well Chani.
Also the clean, crisp mountain air after staying in the city was most certainly a welcome change haha.
Loved every moment! I greatly admire your openness and bravery in trying new things and stepping outside your comfort zones. I think with age, I’m 62, comes a lot more of being present and not the rushing that can be part of youth, wanting to get on to “the next thing.” Thank you for taking us along on this trip you made, you were on TV!!!!! How cool is that?!!!!!
What a fun experience! Thanks for adding Millie at the end! ;)
❤❤❤How nice- so enjoyable. When we are very young we are too squirmy😅.
So true!
Yet another heart warming share from you Chani. Thank you.
Thanks for watching 😃
I thoroughly enjoyed this video. The tour you were on, looked amazing! In any culture, I think it’s so important to maintain traditions. As without them, so much else is lost as well. Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful adventure!
Excellant video. This month I will be returning to Japan after 32 years. Now a retired Veteran, I've saved places to visit and things to do in Google Maps. This time around I'll have all the time in the world to visit new places and perhaps experience how things have changed in some of my favorite areas around Tokyo.
Thanks to Chani and UA-camrs like her, a person can explore Japan in real time via live feeds and get the most current info about living in Japan. Most of my questions have been answered by watching videos. I'm all 😃😃 because I'm ready to start a new chapter.
Sunshine Shoulders in the Philippines is known for saying "Get off the couch" I agree 🛫 🛫
What a beautiful place Chani 😍 I would love to visit it. When I was in my 20's life moved at such a fast pace. Looking back I think it was because I had only left school in my middle teens and my wings had been unclipped. Freedom. I rushed around soaking up new information and adjusting to life as an adult. I didn't start to calm down until my 30's when I started to become more comfortable with myself. I visited a beautiful seaside place, in North Devon in England, 5 years ago by myself. I explored places that I'd always wanted to go and it cleared my head. I distinctly remember bobbing gently up and down on the small boat that I took to Dartmouth Castle. I felt pure joy and happiness 😊. I soaked up the tranquility of the English Riviera. I also took my first successful night photography shots in Torquay harbour. Pure bliss ❤ I'm so glad that you had a good time. Please don't be hard on yourself. Remember, your wings had been unclipped too and you were at the start of an amazing adventure. Take care Chani. Love and hugs to Millie 🐾😻
Oh I love your story ❤️ It’s interesting how we grow and change 😃
Dearest Chani...Ohhh! Wonderful, wonderful trip!!! Shikoku an underrated place in Japan!. Amazing people to share and enjoy. Thanks a lot😊😊😊!
Couldn't agree more!
4:46 wow the autumn sunset scene with rippling cloudy sky and tidy streets is something else, coming from an Aussie - we got nature's beauty bit its always eye opening to see even man made architecture can come to gether with the sunset to make that pleasing to the eye evening scene
It was a nice summer evening😃
Great video as always! LOL noticed good ol John Daub in the news shot, great guy!
Yep! It’s John, awesome guy😃
Congratulations..you got to be on Japanese TV..the food looked so good...I was about to complain and then I saw Millie at the very end. So in love with Millie..❤❤❤
Glad to see that you survived the typhoon
Yes. I did! It didn’t hit my area as bad as all the predictions.
I just love to watch your vlogs, your honesty and openness is so refreshing and your search for real Japan..you open up Japan to me, years of not knowing or really understanding life in Japan and it's people, thank you for opening up a new horizon and learning the value of life in Japan
It's amazing that I found you on UA-cam because I am planning on a trip to Japan hopefully in the near future. I'm not sure about living there but I do plan on spending some time there. Watching you has put my dream into motion. Years ago I spent time with a Japanese family and have loved the traditions ever since.
Oof, I can relate to that opening sentence in the description all too well. I feel the same about my time as an exchange student in Kobe 30 years ago this year. Like, to the day. I was always stressed about being broke and missing out on what my new friends were doing that I was either always feeling sick or not being a great guest towards my host family. And if you remember what happened in Kobe 30 years ago, you know how well that visit ended.
Yes! I think we are very similar in that experience.
Hi Chani.
Thanks for the very nice introduction.
I hope to see you again Chani!
I hope so too!
Chani you summed up very nicely why traditions are so important to a culture. lt really sickens me that there are people who want to do away with them and make the world a bland boring place. l thoroughly enjoyed this interesting tour and look forward to more insights into Japanese life. 💗
Have no regrets about the past. Priorities are different when one is younger. Whether you knew it at the time or not, it gave you a taste of Japan that would lead you back here to live. Nice that you went back and got to look around with a different outlook! I didn't travel much in my younger years so I don't recall that I missed out on anything specific that would change if I went today. Thank you for sharing this video and the tour!
Love your posts. So natural and beautiful without artifice. Good job. I'm 77 and I enjoy them very much.
I really appreciate your kind words ❤️
A wonderful tour! And enjoyed watching your appearance on TV 👏👏👏👏
My grandparents on my father's side were from Zentsuji. I was a little happy to see some familiar places in the video.
Such a sweet young lady in those old pix! I was in Shiga-ken 31 years ago this week. Oh boy the time flies. I was able to go back once and see my old conversation partner 18 years ago. Nara is a place I love the most the first time and then 3 more times after. I am going to be in between jobs soon so maybe somewhere in between is a good time to go for an extended trip. My old director from our school in Hikone performs with a Bunraku troupe. I think he is in Takamatsu. If you want the information, I can send you a link if they has a list of performance tour dates.
A really, really fabulous video Chani, worth watching several times over - it is so packed with interesting information and heartfelt words. Thanks x
Chani what a lovely experience! I am shy too and don’t venture out to tours even here in my own town. Every place has some history and there is often someone willing to share for anyone who will listen. I suppose the key is to never stop learning and to say yes as much as possible to new experiences.
I'm pretty early; came here straight from watching "Perfect Days", funnily enough. In recent years I have returned to Germany, somewhere I visited as a child and as a young adult 30 years ago. It's definitely interesting what you notice after 30 more years on earth!
Your videos are keeping me hyped for my move. So many last minute issues holding us back right now... keep pushing the date "one more month". I really hope to be in Japan by December.
I really enjoyed this video, I feel more motivated to look further joy in small things. I’m very curious about religion in Japan, I’d love to see more temples and learn about the Buddhist and Shinto faiths in Japan! Wonderful work Chani, please keep it up!
Thanks 😃 I think it’s a very peaceful religion.
What a beautiful experience! You are so fortunate. I think being able to fully appreciate many of life’s blessings is something that comes with maturity and age. In reflecting on the many experiences I had as a young man in a foreign country, I know I missed so much. I was in too much of a hurry, too self absorbed, too closed to the opportunities to appreciate the culture and spirit of where I was. If I were to return, I hope I would be as open as you showed yourself to be in your adoptive country.
Ah Shikoku - our favourite place in Japan. We'd live there tomorrow....Thanks for the trip back for our memories.
Any time!
What a wonderful tour! Thank you for taking us along. I stayed in a Buddhist temple one night and had one shojin ryori meal. We then watched the morning worship service before departing. You brought the memory back to me. I think we all look back on how we were when we were younger, and wish that we could relive some experiences again. Hi Millie!
Hi Chani. I really enjoy your videos (especially those with Millie!) and can definitely relate to returning somewhere you visited long ago. I studied in France for two semesters 15 years ago and just completed a "pilgrimage" over the last two weeks. When I was first in France I too was very shy and didn't allow myself to fully enjoy the experience. However, this trip was the complete opposite, and I've been inspired to follow my dream of moving to France to teach Business. Thank you for sharing your story and being so vulnerable throughout the process. You're an inspiration and have really helped me become more comfortable with the thought of making a major life change. Keep up the good work and give Millie a pet for me.
Je vous souhaite la meilleure année et merci d'avoir partagé votre histoire !
Just John Daub from Only in Japan making an appearance at 5:08
That food looked sooo beautiful, tooo beautiful to eat😅🫣❤️ you are a clever lady Chani❤🤗 and you have the heart on the right place. Japan is lucky to have you🥹❤️we learn has we go🤗 the only thing we can do is to be open minded and open to the teachings that come our way. If we aren’t the first time than we will the second🥰🤗❤️one of the reasons I like Asian country’s is their ability to keep traditions alive😌so fun to watch you on tv🤩🤗my first impression of Japanese people is that they are extremely warmhearted, friendly and respectful people. ( I wrote this before you said it😂❤️) That’s how they come through!👍🏻Would love to visit and experience it myself ❤️❤️❤️we have one Japanese lady working in my child’s kindergarten here in Norway , she is so sweet and kind. Really lovely lady🤗
Thank you so much 🤗
Thanks for sharing Chani, loved watching all the workshops you participated in.
I love seeing these videos of tourism outside of the typical such as this, as well as the camping and glamping videos
Stoked, coming to Kagawa!
Just came back from Gibraltar, and litsening to the elderly (but not much older than me!) Mediterranean ladies talking Llanito (English, Spanish, Genoan, Portuquese), bantering and joking, I didn't understand why I felt so moved, then I realised it was because they reminded me of the French Mediterranean ladies, I met so many years ago when I was 16 and first moved to France. Back then I didn't understand them. Now, I can understand a lot, but don't need to.
It was like a time capsule, back to what made me love this place so much.
That’s so lovely 🩷
This has to be one of my favorite of your videos. What a great experience! I completely identify with your observation about how much we miss when young and impatient. I spent 2 years in Ethiopia in my early twenties and I realize now, as a much older person, that I missed so much of the culture and history of the country. I know that, if I visit the country again now, it would be with a much more open and receptive mind than before.
Thanks so much, I'm glad you enjoyed it! 🩷
This tour looked so fun! I’ve never thought to take one on a trip, and now I’m really interested the next time I visit Japan. Also, lovely thoughts and reflection on what you’ve learned over the years. I really enjoyed this video! 😊
I will definitely have to experience this tour on my next visit to Japan. It looks so interesting. Thanks for sharing, Chani!
What a love
Y and enriching experience. You are a delight and I am so happy to have discovered your channel. I’ve visited Japan but not these small areas off the typical tourist spots. Looking forward to more videos from you.
Great video and good reflection. 👏
Thank you 🙌
Love it! Planning on doing the pilgrimage in the near future, very helpful for my research 😅
Wonderful! I am hoping to start it this year too!
素晴らしいツアーのようですね
What an amazing experience!! ❤❤❤
Thank you for another great video. Love Japan its culture, its people and its traditions. Wonderful xx😊😊🇦🇺🌻
I love this video, everything about it and you on Tv of course. Thank you so much🙏🏼
It feels natural to be lively during youth and perhaps sometimes tradition and ritual wasn't valued in a rush to move on to the next thing. That's what's special about being young 🌱 and then we grow wiser and appreciate everyday moments even more. At least that's what I've experienced upon reflection.
I'm also shy and tend to tag along when it comes to tour groups, but sometimes I meet lovely people that are willing to connect with me and get to know me a little bit better.
I cant wait to dig in to learning japanese.
Returning shortly after a long absence since the teaching ‘daze’. I’m keen to see what has and hasn’t changed as well as how I have also changed. Great video!
Thanks!
Thanks Fred 😃👋🩷
I only quickly visited the temple in Zentsuji during a trip to Shikoku, as we were staying in nearby Kotohira. The area and Shikoku in general are such gems. I do hope they get more tourists there for their economy, but also I hope they won't get too many. Being basically the only foreign tourists around was certainly part of the charm of the island.
Another amazing video Chani...ThankYou!!
Addin Zentsuji to the list as we speak. You are so lucky to be there!
What you said about missing the first time you are in a place really resonated. I miss the first time I went to Japan 20 or so years ago. It was a very different place and I so regret not travelling there more often.
Αn ambassador couldn't have promoted shukoku better ❤
I had always wondered about some things you mentioned like the dolls you painted or the tea ceremony, if I were there I would definitely take that guided trip...I love those 4 principles/thoughts at the end of the video
What an amazing tour, so glad you had such a lovely time. Very enjoyable video thank you
I hope to return to Japan next year after my health improves, and maybe I'll be able to visit the places I used to know there.
Since you asked, yes I have had a similar experience, with my hometown. Probably most people who grew up in very small towns and couldn't wait to move away can see the place from a new perspective after a few decades. 40 years passed for me. And then I returned when my father needed extra care in his final years. Not much had changed, but I certainly appreciated the place (and the people) a lot more than when I was a kid.
Everything you've said resonated with me also. With age you get to appreciate everything through the lease of life's experiences and what you now value. Returning to and living in Sapporo 28 years later has taught me similar learnings to your journey. It's also the smells, sounds and scenery that I find are more powerful the older you get as it sparks memories and experiences. Great video!!!