A letter to those living far from home

No matter where you are in the world, problems and adversity will always exist, it’s how we choose to react to them that matters.

Shikoku; the enchanting Iya Valley.

Before coming to Japan, I was given a book by a colleague as a leaving present. I decided to read it on the plane, thinking it would be a nice way to pass the time. Already pretty excited about my Japanese adventure; I felt still more elated once I had finished and had reached Tokyo. …

Shodoshima Pt II; Kiki, disappearing paths and lovely locals.

Our adventure continued on 小豆島 Shodoshima or literally "small bean island", kawaii! Like many small islands, Shodoshima has an overwhelming feeling of being unaffected by the outside world. Its popularity among Japanese tourists is perhaps because of the islands simplicity; and that it is a world away from the bustling streets of the city. With …

Shikoku; the Soy Sauce Smelling Shodishima, Part I

Day 4: Shodoshima A Festive Ferry to Shodo Island メリークリスマス! (Merii Kurisumasu) Our Christmas morning started a little hazy on my end due to the consumption of wine, gin and vodka on xmas eve. But it wouldn't be a traditional British Christmas morning without being hungover. Unfortunately for us, our traditional washitsu 和室 did do …

Atami; February plum blossom and a chilled seaside town

Atami is famous for it's hot springs and onsens 温泉 (public baths) and is one of Tokoyites favourite spots for escaping the city and distressing in a hot onsen. And for those who cannot wait until March to see Japan's famous cherry blossom there is a Plum Garden in Atami that boasts many suteki (素敵, …

Shikoku; Slurping Udon Noodles in Takamatsu.

Day 3-4: Takamatsu After gallivanting around some crazy whirlpools we hopped on a JR train from Naruto to Takasmatsu, which took around 2 and a half hours with one change. We arrived in Takamatsu sleepy and onaka peko peko (お腹ぺこぺこ, hungry), so we headed to our guesthouse. Now, if I recommend anywhere to stay in …

Shikoku; Whirlpool Adventure in Tokushima

鳴門の渦潮 Naruto no Uzushio I have fallen in love with Japan. What has made me fall so deeply in love is not necessarily what I experienced in Tokyo or Kyoto. I love the peacefulness, the people, the markets, the countryside and the general way of life here. I want to explore parts of Japan that …

WordPress told me to introduce myself.

Hello. My name is Lily. Am I doing this right? What else do you want to know? Hmmmm. I have just moved to a big island that is full of stickers and sushi that some people may know as Japan. I am originally from a small unknown island called the U.K, I think I left …