Hello! Welcome to Joy in Japan.
You can call me Joy.
I created this travel guide to share wonderful things in Japan that spark joy in my heart.
Friends and family often ask for my recommendations and itineraries to explore Japan the way I do. Yes, I am that kind of traveler who makes insanely detailed spreadsheets of every single trip, down to the exact minute I’m supposed to take a train!
I’ve lived in big cities and rural villages most locals have never heard of in Japan.
Now, I’m here to share my experiences alongside my travel bucket list. I love discovering hidden gems off the beaten path!
I understand how Japan can be challenging to navigate, especially for first-time visitors.
My first trip was a disaster, I could not communicate with my family back home because I underestimated how international communications work, and wi-fi wasn’t a thing then. I spent so much money just to make a 5-minute call to let everyone know I’ve arrived safely.
Now I’m here to help you minimize stress and maximize joy. Let’s go!