Japan - where aesthetic comes first

In April 2023 (sounds like years ago...) I took my first trip to Japan during which I got to explore Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hakone. Upon my arrival at the airport, I was surprised by its mundane, generic look. As an avid enthusiast of Japanese design and culture, I was expecting a refined, aesthetic arrival hall. My attention quickly shifted as we were kindly greeted by our driver who you best believe was wearing white gloves. This was a myth that I did not believe until I saw it with my own eyes. Every taxi I sat in, white gloves were worn and doors opened as you enter and exit. A refreshing sight after spending the last four years in London where cab drivers are kind enough not to run you over as you cross the street.

The drive to the Hotel was a surprisingly green and nature-surrounded journey considering we were headed to the largest city in the world. My hospitality standards have heightened since this trip, with the meticulous attention to detail, the kindness, and the timing; it was hard to find something to complain about.

I think we can all relate to that post-long-haul flight feeling, your perception of time is off, and let's face it, you're merely a body floating in space at that point. This is where the arrival into your hotel becomes a crucial point for your sanity. I could not have had a better experience as I felt an immediate sense of calm and peace as I entered my room. Which is hard to believe while being on the 30th floor of a high-rise building in a highly populated city. Whether it was the layout of the room, the lack of sleep, or the attention to detail, I felt zen.

As we ventured out to beat jet lag and stay up for what was going to be a life-changing sushi dining experience, I was pleasantly surprised by how quiet the outside world was. Not one car engine revving, not one honk, not one jay-walker. The discipline and order are admirable for us Westerners, London could use some Tokyo influence. I could go into detail about every cultural sight, temple, or shrine that I came across but the truth is, everything is beautiful. Even the most mundane objects have been designed with aesthetics in mind. While one might compare this to Western modernity and simplicity, the Japanese operate on another level. At first glance, Japanese design might come across as unfinished, empty, or lacking but that is where beauty is found. They believe that there is beauty in the incomplete, it is up to us to fill it with our imagination. In removing the unnecessary and the clutter; the mind is clear and present.

There are many things I took away from this trip on top of ample boxes of matcha...Among them was a newly found appreciation for taking time for mundane activities and carrying them out with intention. Returning to the fast-paced London life it was challenging to incorporate my new "do thing intentionally" goal. It is so easy to get caught up in the hustle, the hunt of always being better, achieving more, and doing so instantly. But there is joy in the journey, satisfaction in being present, and being in tune with yourself while achieving your goal. In turn, this leads to a sustainable way of living as you permit yourself to stop and acknowledge the efforts before returning to the hamster wheel. I have learned the importance of having a place dedicated to silence and reflection. Ideally, this place is quiet, has little to no distractions and enables you to be fully present. Since paying more attention to the way I spend my downtime, I have experienced a shift in my motivation to work and achieve my goals. I have the mental clarity to work towards what I want and can do so in a calm manner all while loving what I do.