This. This is what I love about Japan. Wandering its streets at night and being taken into a whole new world. These photos were taken a few hours after landing in Japan when the country opened up in October following the pandemic. What a way to start the trip.

That first night
It took me a while to book a hotel in Tokyo. I would be going two weeks after the borders’ opening. There were some great choices and the prices have never been so cheap since most hotels were basically empty. I booked the Shinjuku Citadines for one main reason: it overlooked Golden Gai. I was not disapointed as the proximity allowed me to...

It feels right
Coming back to Japan after three long years feels like reuniting with that old childhood friend you loved so much. Being back in Tokyo brings un unexplainable joy and stillness within me. A few things have changed since the pandemic but I’m glad to see that the city’s vibe remains the same.

Back in Japan!
In 2020, Japan went into lockdown with the rest of the world. Unlike the rest of the world however, Japan remained closed until October 11th, 2022. On October 23rd, I landed in Tokyo. It’s been 5 years since my last visit. I heard things have changed since the pandemic. Is Japan still the same? Let’s find out.