Japan is an incredible place! But it’s also one of the most overcrowded travel destinations in the world. Throughout the year, major cities like Tokyo and Osaka are filled with visitors following the same routes, visiting the same landmarks, and lining up at the same famous spots. There’s nothing wrong with that. But Japan is much more than just its most well-known destinations.
Hidden Japan World was created to share the quieter side of Japan. The place locals love, but many travelers never notice. Small parks tucked behind busy attractions, peaceful walking routes, overlooked museums, calm night views, and everyday spots that don’t appear on typical travel guides.
I write my own experiences exploring Japan beyond the usual tourist paths. Sometimes it’s a hidden park next to a crowded attraction. Sometimes it’s a local ferry, a quiet neighborhood, or a place that feels ordinary to locals but special. My goal is to help you discover Japan beyond the obvious!
Who I Am?
I was born in Japan to Japanese parents, but I was raised in New Zealand from a very young age. My hobbies include walking, eating, and I also love watching football (soccer) and baseball.
For many years, Japan felt like a distant part of my identity. I hadn’t been back since as a child. If I’m being honest, when I finally decided to return in 2024, my main motivation was food. I had heard so much about how good everyday Japanese food is, and I wanted to experience it properly for myself.
But when I returned to Japan for the first time in many years. I was honestly, stunned. Japan felt completely different from New Zealand. The atmosphere, the cities, the way people live. That trip made me realize that I wanted Japan to be a bigger part of my life again, and eventually, a place I could see myself living.
Even before that visit, I had started reconnecting with the Japanese language. I worked in Japanese companies in New Zealand, using Japanese in a real working environment. Studying from textbooks had helped, but nothing improved my Japanese more than actually using it in meetings, emails, and everyday conversations.
At the same time, I had the chance to teach English to Japanese staff, which showed me how rewarding it can be to help others learn a language.
Now, as I plan travel back and forth between Japan and New Zealand, I decided to give Preply a try and start teaching Japanese online. I focus on helping people who want to learn Japanese from zero, especially those who feel nervous or overwhelmed about starting.
Click here if you’d like to learn more about my Japanese lesson.
If you’re curious about seeing a different side of Japan, I hope this site helps you discover places you might otherwise miss.