HI THERE, I'M BECKY
I’m from Cincinnati, Ohio, and my journey to Japan began when I took a leap of faith after spotting a teaching opportunity at a career fair. With no knowledge of the language or connections in the country, I packed my bags and set off for a one-year adventure—much to my family’s surprise!
Ten years later, I’m still captivated by Tokyo’s endless wonders. Through this blog, I’ll share my experiences, from hidden gems in the city to travels across Japan and beyond.
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My Latest Posts
From Tokyo’s hidden treasures to breathtaking destinations beyond, my latest blogs bring you closer to the heart of Japan.
How to Visit the Haruki Murakami Library in Tokyo
The Haruki Murakami Library (officially the Waseda International House of Literature) is one of the most enchanting free attractions in Tokyo. Designed by architect Kengo Kuma and housed on Murakami’s alma mater campus at Waseda University, it holds over 3,000 of his books in 50 languages, a jazz vinyl listening room, a replica of his writing study, and the Orange Cat cafe. I visited in 2022 and, as a Murakami fan, spent one of my most magical afternoons in Tokyo. Here is everything you need to know before you go, including opening hours, the reservation system, and the best Murakami novels to read first.
Tokyo’s Islands: How to Visit What Most Tourists Miss
Tokyo’s 11 islands stretch 1,000 kilometers south into the Pacific from the surf beaches of Niijima and the volcanic scenery of Miyakejima to the UNESCO World Heritage shores of Chichijima and Hahajima. This is the definitive guide to every island accessible by ferry from Tokyo including how to book tickets, what to expect on board, and where to stay.
Moving to Japan? 10 Things I Wish I’d Known
Moving to a new country as different as Japan comes with its own unique challenges. This guide covers the ten most important things to know before you arrive from carrying your Residence Card at all times and navigating Japan’s cash-based economy, to setting up a bank account, registering at your ward office, renting an apartment, and mastering the trash rules. Whether you are moving to Tokyo or a smaller city, these tips will help you settle in faster and avoid the most common mistakes.
Japan for First-Time Visitors: 10 Insider Tips from 13 Years of Living in Tokyo
A 13-year Tokyo resident shares the 10 things every first-time visitor to Japan truly needs to know including calculating whether a JR Pass is worth it, setting up a Suica on your iPhone, finding tourist-friendly ATMs, and surviving onsen etiquette.
Japan’s Snow Monkeys: The Complete 2026 Guide to Jigokudani Monkey Park
Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano Prefecture is one of Japan’s most extraordinary wildlife experiences: wild Japanese macaques soaking in a natural mountain hot spring, surrounded by deep cedar forest and snow. This complete 2026 guide covers admission prices, the Snow Monkey Pass, how to get there from Tokyo on the Hokuriku Shinkansen, what to wear on the trail, and what to do in nearby Shibu Onsen and Shiga Kogen.
Tokyo Itinerary Day 2: Five More Amazing Places to See
Cherry blossoms, the world-class museums of Ueno Park, and the narrow music-filled lanes of Shimokitazawa – these five Tokyo neighborhoods reveal a side of the city that most visitors never find.
Get My Book about My Favorite Tokyo Neighborhood
Shimokitazawa – A Tokyo Beginner's Guide
This guidebook offers over 50 must-visit spots, curated itineraries, and insider tips to explore Shimokitazawa like a local.
