TRIP OVERIEW
I spent three weeks traveling independently through Japan — a lifelong dream inspired by my early fascination with Samurai culture.
What began as an interest in their history evolved into a deep appreciation for the country’s intricate and intentional design. Experiencing it firsthand gave me a new perspective on craftsmanship, minimalism, and visual storytelling — all of which continue to influence my work as a designer.
I began my journey by heading straight to Seki, a small town north of Nagoya known for its rich history in Japanese bladesmithing.
Once renowned for crafting the finest swords during the Samurai era, Seki is now celebrated for producing some of the world’s best kitchen knives. Visiting the town was a fascinating experience — I gained a deeper appreciation for the craft and discovered just how demanding and precise the process is.
Next I travelled down to Kyoto by bullet train. I had long been excited about seeing this city with its varied and deep historical roots
It didn’t disappoint. I stayed in a traditional Japanese house and spent the week exploring temples, castles, and local markets.
One of the highlights was visiting a garden within the Daitokuji temple complex, designed by the legendary tea master Sen no Rikyū. His philosophy and practice of wabi-sabi and minimalism have long inspired me, and seeing his influence in person was incredibly moving.
I was also fortunate to take part in a meditation session with a Buddhist monk within the same complex — a truly unforgettable experience.
After a brief stop in Osaka, where I explored a variety of vibrant markets, I made my way to Mount Fuji, which was amazing! I spent several days hiking through the area and meeting some really cool people.
From Fuji, I travelled into the mountains outside Tokyo, where I stayed in an old temple tucked away in the middle of nowhere. I spent my days exploring the surrounding landscape and getting to know some of the locals. I also had the opportunity to take part in a local festival that was taking place while I was there.
Finally, I spent just under a week in Tokyo, and it was incredible. The city feels so futuristic, yet full of charm. I especially loved exploring the art galleries — 21_21 Design Sight and the Nezu Museum were definite highlights. One of the best parts, though, was stumbling upon random little restaurants and unexpectedly finding some of the most amazing ramen I’ve ever had.