The Wonder of Japan

The Land of the Rising Sun is so much more than ancient Buddhist temples, serene Shinto shrines and mouth-watering food. It's a country that must be experienced in its everyday!

- BY SMITA TRIPATHI

Having travelled to to over 35 countries, I've grown accustomed to brusque airport security checks and rushed interactions. So, imagine my surprise when at Osaka airport, after removing my shoes for screening, I was handed a pristine pair of red slippers to walk through the metal detector. My belongings, neatly laid out in the tray, were gently covered with another— an elegant nod to personal privacy. All this, done with smiles and the signature Japanese efficiency.

While Japan dazzles with its ancient temples, tranquil Shinto shrines, and exquisite cuisine, what truly sets it apart is the charm of the everyday. This is a nation where Uber drivers wear white gloves, lace-draped seats adorn taxis, and no detail is too small. Even at restaurants, where language can be a barrier, staff go out of their way—often armed with Google Translate to ensure you feel cared for.

Tipping isn't customary, and if you do leave one behind, don't be surprised if someone chases you down to return it.

As a solo female traveller, I felt completely at ease, whether wandering late at night through Tokyo's buzzing Shinjuku and Shibuya or exploring the neon-lit lanes of Osaka's Dotonbori. Here, you can misplace your wallet and find it untouched-because in Japan, integrity is a way of life.