Gypsy Witch Visits Japan

3/28/24

Konnichiwa

I recently was very fortunate to have spent a lovely two weeks in Japan and let me tell you, the place definitely imprinted some kind of magic on me. Growing up watching anime and playing RPGs, Japan has always been way up there on my list of travel destinations. After finally experiencing a lifelong dream come true, I can safely say it was bette than I ever imagined. Not only were the people there some of the kindest I have ever met, but the food was exceptional! From street vendors to cozy little ramen shops, I was able to find an abundance of vegan options! (Vlog coming soon possibly?)

The cities and temples were so well taken care of and aesthetically pleasing and the rich culture of the Japanese was so unique and in some ways, inspiring. Being able to get from place to place quickly by train was something I really enjoyed and I don’t think I can ever forget those cute little songs each train station played when our train arrived. I loved walking around Tokyo and Osaka, getting lost in the Arashiyama bamboo forest, feeling the spiritual aura at the temples in Kyoto and feeding the deer in Nara.

There were many cultural symbols scattered throughout Japan, often representing luck and fortune such as paper cranes, omamori charms from the temples and my absolute favorite, the lucky cat known in Japan as Maneki Neko. These adorable figurines are often made with ceramic and placed in shops and businesses to attract fortune and prosperity. I’m sure we’ve all seen these little guys in some of our favorite Asian restaurants. Somewhere between traveling from Tokyo to Osaka, I felt inspired to create some bracelets representing the Japanese lucky cat combined with a variety of crystal beads and I am incredibly delighted how they turned out! You can find these beauties here and choose the one that resonates with you if you’re feeling lucky. ;)

As far as returning to Japan in the near future, I already decided that it was a must midway through my trip. There is just so much more exploration I need to do and many things I would love to do again!

It truly is a place unlike any other. <3