Capturing the Spirit of Japan through the Lens of Wonder, Stillness, and Travel
Arrival in Japan: Fog, Flight, and First Impressions
After a 13-hour flight, we finally landed in Japan. It was evening when we arrived, and by the time we checked into our hotel on the Izu Peninsula, night had already fallen. The air was thick with fog, and though we knew Mount Fuji was nearby, we couldn’t see it—or even guess exactly where it was.
We settled into our room at the Izu Marriott Hotel Shuzenji (https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/fsziz-izu-marriott-hotel-shuzenji/overview/ ), nestled on the beautiful Izu Peninsula. The rooms here are a blend of traditional Japanese design and modern comfort, featuring private onsen baths fed by natural hot springs—true tranquility.
A Morning Gift: The Appearance of Fuji
When morning broke, the fog still lingered. Still no sign of Fuji. We didn’t know if we’d get to see it at all. Then something unforgettable happened. I stepped away from the window for a few minutes, and when I returned—there it was.
Mount Fuji, in all its glory, standing tall and quiet like a divine painting etched across the sky.
In a rush, I scrambled to set up my camera. I hadn’t prepared in advance like I should have, but I pointed it toward the mountain and began a time-lapse. The clouds were gently moving around its peak, giving the mountain an even more ethereal presence.
What I hadn’t anticipated was the steam rising from the onsen bath outside, slowly fogging up my lens. Later, I’d have to edit out a few spots in post—but even so, that footage became one of the most breathtaking shots I’ve ever captured.
Within 45 minutes, the mountain disappeared again, cloaked in fog. We never saw it again for the rest of the week. That moment was a blessing—timed perfectly. I genuinely believe Jehovah opened the sky for just that sliver of time so we could witness something extraordinary.
The Hotel: Izu Marriott Hotel Shuzenji
Let’s talk about this hotel for a moment. If you’re ever looking for a place that balances luxury, serenity, and an authentic Japanese experience, this is it.
The Izu Marriott Hotel Shuzenji offers rooms with outdoor private onsen baths and direct views of Mount Fuji (when the fog allows it). I’ve traveled to over 45 countries, and I can say without exaggeration: bathing in Japan is next level. This is not just cleanliness—it’s ritual, relaxation, and restoration in its highest form.
Journey to Nara: Roads Less Traveled
The next day, we left the Izu Peninsula and drove to Nara—a trip that took about five and a half hours. While most travelers opt for Japan’s famous trains, we decided to rent a car through Enterprise, which cost around $300 for the week.
Driving in Japan gave us freedom—the chance to absorb the countryside at our own rhythm. It’s not without its challenges (left-side driving, cryptic signage), but for us, the payoff was huge.
In Nara, we checked into the JW Marriott Hotel Nara (https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/osajw-jw-marriott-hotel-nara/photos/ ), another gem. Modern rooms with thoughtful Japanese details made for a luxurious stay. However, dining was a bit tricky—especially since my wife is a vegetarian. She kept it simple the first night with udon noodles and miso broth, while I stuck to my pescatarian options.
Day Trip to Kyoto: Bamboo Forest at Dawn
From Nara, we took a 45-minute drive to Kyoto for a morning visit to the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Thanks to our jet lag, we were up early—before sunrise—and that turned out to be the perfect time to go.
We practically had the entire forest to ourselves, aside from maybe 10 other early risers. No crowds. Just the sound of wind moving through the bamboo stalks and the early light breaking through. It felt like stepping into another world. A place for reflection. A place for stillness.
After soaking in the silence and snapping some clean, crowd-free shots, we returned to Nara to explore more.
Sanjo Dori Street: Knives, Fusion Food, and Engraved Memories
Back in Nara, we took a leisurely walk down Sanjo Dori Street, a charming strip with shops and food stops. I bought a beautiful Japanese knife, and they did a live demonstration—engraving my name on the blade in Japanese. That was a cool, personalized touch I won’t forget.
We also stumbled upon a restaurant called Authentic Table Tavern, which served up Japanese-Italian fusion food. Unconventional, yes—but surprisingly delicious.
And the dessert? Unforgettable.
It was called the Savarín with Sake—a sponge cake that they pour sake directly onto right at your table. The cake soaks it in, and the flavor was next level. Definitely one of the best desserts of the trip.
Osaka: Tea Ceremony & Castles
The next day, we headed to Osaka, about a 30-minute drive from Nara. One of the most memorable moments there was participating in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
Everything about it was intentional: the slow, thoughtful preparation, the silent gratitude, the purposeful movements. Even the rotation of the cup so others could appreciate its artwork spoke volumes about presence, mindfulness, and community.
As someone who values mindfulness, this ceremony deepened my appreciation for everyday rituals. It was simple, beautiful, and powerful.
Later, we stopped by the Osaka Castle—a classic Azuchi-Momoyama style Japanese castle . We didn’t go inside, but seeing its towering presence from the outside was enough to take in its majestic design.
Osaka Station City & Pokemon Center
Afterward, we walked to Osaka Station City, a large mall and transit hub that also houses the Pokemon Center—a must-see if you’re a fan or traveling with kids. It’s whimsical and nostalgic all at once. Great energy, creative displays, and a fun way to wrap up the city experience.
Mochi Pounding
Tucked away in the charming streets of Nara lies a hidden gem that captures the spirit of tradition and craftsmanship—Nakatanidou, the mochi-pounding inn that has become a must-visit destination. Known for its high-speed mochitsukiperformances, this unassuming shop draws crowds with the rhythmic dance of two masters pounding sticky rice in perfect harmony. Beyond the spectacle, the mochi is soft, warm, and unforgettable—truly a taste of Japan’s cultural heritage. If you’re exploring Nara, don’t miss this unique experience that blends history, flavor, and performance in one beautiful stop.
The Snow Monkeys: Final Journey North
Our final road trip took us north—close to six hours, though the navigator included the hike time. The true drive was closer to five hours, with an additional 30 to 40-minute walk through the woods to reach the famous Snow Monkeys.
Seeing the monkeys bathe in the natural hot springs—completely unbothered by humans—was something out of a National Geographic film. Wild and serene all at once.
Afterward, we drove another two hours to our final hotel—an amazing spot that wrapped up the trip in luxury and peace. (More on that in the next post.)
A Grand Finale: Karuizawa Nagakura and the Hoshino Onsen
Our final stay was at the Hoshino Resort in Karuizawa Nagakura—and all I can say is wow.
If mindfulness had a physical address, it might be here.
This place wasn’t just a hotel—it was an experience of serenity woven into architecture, landscape, and service. From the moment we arrived, you could feel that everything had intention behind it. The design brought nature indoors—rock formations, wood, and water elements all throughout the space, echoing Japan’s quiet reverence for the natural world.
The rooms came with private onsen baths, and just outside, the river flowed gently, connecting to the larger natural hot spring. It was peaceful. Still. Almost sacred.
A Thoughtful Stay, Rooted in Presence
The hospitality here was unlike anything I’ve experienced. The staff delivered meals, cleaned spaces, and prepared traditional bento-style breakfasts—rice, miso soup, pickled vegetables—with care and calm that made you feel like you mattered. They weren’t just doing a job—they were practicing presence in their work.
Every guest received a traditional Japanese outfit called a samue—lightweight, comfortable, and designed for relaxation. We wore these as we moved through the resort to the public onsen baths, and they even provided jackets and coats so you wouldn’t get cold walking outside.
When we entered the room, we were asked to remove our shoes—a custom I’ve come to appreciate deeply. They offered indoor slippers and socks with the toes separated, traditionally known as tabi socks.
Final Reflections
From Mount Fuji’s brief yet breathtaking appearance…
To early mornings in Kyoto’s quiet forests…
Mindful tea in Osaka and sake-soaked desserts in Nara…
Japan offered more than a vacation.
It offered presence.
It offered stillness.
And it offered a reminder that sometimes, the best way to see clearly—is to wait for the fog to lift.
Thinking of going to Japan? Here are some quick tips:
• Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Forest at sunrise for a quiet, tourist-free experience.
• Drive if you’re comfortable—it offers unmatched freedom, but be prepared for opposite-side road rules.
• Stay at the Izu Marriott Hotel Shuzenji or JW Marriott Nara for comfort, views, and Japanese design.
• Do the tea ceremony. Even once. It will change how you view simple routines.
• Try the Savarín with Sake at Authentic Table Tavern in Nara. Trust me.
• And always—keep your camera ready. You never know when the clouds will part.
Copyright Notice
All photography on this website is copyrighted and the exclusive work of Jason Flakes. No images may be copied, downloaded, reproduced, or used in any form without prior written permission from the photographer. All rights reserved.
0 Comments