Arigatou Japan

Dear Japan,

Today I thought about why I really like living here. It's not just because everything is clean and neat, and it's not just because it's Japan. It's because Japan is built by people who pay attention to small details. This strength impresses me a lot. Many people think Japan is just respectful, polite, shy, or indirect. But I understand now it’s really about the culture of noticing and caring for the little things most people don't see or aren't used to seeing.

Maybe that's why I easily connect with locals even though my Japanese is bad. We both enjoy simple, beautiful things, like a pretty garden, a simple yet thoughtful handmade postcard, a nice origami artwork, or seeing how dedicated people are in their jobs. My friend Yuri, who is a beauty therapist, she keeps learning and she doesn't mind fewer clients to ensure each one leaves happy (quality over quantity). Marina gave me a handwritten and handmade Christmas card, just like my sister often does. Iyo always notices the dresses and accessories we wear. Even small things, like noticing the quality of clothes or accessories, help us feel close. Other friends often talk passionately about their work—they might nag sometimes, but they always do their jobs very well. Often in my country, people nag but then quickly give up and quit, which makes me appreciate this difference even more—our quitting usually means saying goodbye to discomfort, while Japanese quitting often feels more like saying 'I don’t need you anymore because I am so good at this already and deserve better.'

I also appreciate practical habits common in Japan, such as putting your bag in front of you on crowded trains or planning meetings with friends weeks ahead with exact dates and times. These little things show respect for other people's space and time.

Learning Chado—the traditional tea ceremony—made me realise this even more. Each step isn't about strict rules but about paying careful attention. Mastering the repetition and routine–or so, practice makes perfect. 😉

I also like how the people values harmony. Sometimes being indirect might confuse others, including myself. But I have learned not everything needs to be said openly. Silence can often mean more, and it helps people feel comfortable to speak when they are ready. This kind of behaviour reminds me of my mum (she is an ambiverted person who loves being alone). Sometimes it really frustrated me when we discussing something. But when she was ready, our talks were always full of trust. I learnt to read situations and be more patient because of her.

And there's also the cleaning culture. Japan, you've taught me cleaning isn't just a chore. It's about respect, care, and pride in shared spaces—thinking about who will use the space before and after you. It's a simple way of showing kindness without needing words.

I also find that local people here have a similar approach to holidays as I do—they like discovering new cultures, trying different experiences, and aren't afraid to travel independently. I even met another Japanese friend, Miu, who works in India while we both were travelling alone in Baku, Azerbaijan—she is so cool. She is so daring and told me interesting stories about working in different countries.

Japan, the people, have taught me many important things–like being observant, thoughtful, respectful, and responsible. Somehow, it also made me appreciate my circle even more. These simple but new lessons have made my life more meaningful and omoshiroi. It doesn’t mean I will be living here forever, but it has definitely given me lessons I will carry with me wherever I go.

神は細部に宿る。 ("Kami wa saibu ni yadoru.") "God is in the details."

Arigatou,

Cindy-channnnn 😄