Japan

Every day is a journey, and the journey itself is home

Matsuo Basho

Tokyo

Tokyo shook our hand, kissed us, then slapped us in the face. She was a lady of many moods, and they'd shift as quickly as a summer downpour. She was a mixtape that mashes tradition and tech, where each district carries a unique sound.

Kyoto

While Tokyo dazzled us with her lights, technology, and boundless nightlife energy, Kyoto soothed us with a calm smile and a perfectly poured cup of matcha tea. She welcomes all who flock to her with warmth and stoicism.

To most, she's a lady of mystery and secrets — an attraction worth getting to know. She poses for pictures but never speaks a word. Some try to be her. They copy her clothing, wear her makeup, and don her geta sandals, but none can move with poise and grace like her. None can imitate the history and culture that runs through her veins. She's a one-of-a-kind, a jewel that will forever attract adoration and awe.

Osaka

Osaka, the kid sister to Tokyo, welcomed us with a boisterous hug and a sparkle in her eye. What she lacks in size and tradition, she makes up for in pageantry. She tugged on our sleeves and dragged us off to her favorite places. Whether it's getting a panoramic view of the city, shopping for red octopus plushies, or playing pinball at the local mall arcade, she was determined to show us a good time.

At night, she came alive in a maze of streets and canals packed with restaurants, all touting unique flavors as big as their storefront mascots.

She flaunted her culinary alchemy, feeding us traditional Osakan street food like takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and fluffy cheesecake. Her energy is intoxicating, and her charms are endearing.