Ikigai Travelers

Ikigai Travelers
Osaka Castle

In October 2022 we moved from Phoenix, Arizona to Yamaguchi, Japan.

Tokyo Expectations vs Reality

More modern than the other places in Japan I have visited so far. Which to date are Naha, Uruma, Ginowan, Hiroshima, Miyajima, and Iwakuni.

Reasons to visit Miyajima

The ferry ride to the island! I was not expecting this to be such and enjoyable part of my experience but riding the ferry was actually really fun.

Woman looking out from the wooden deck of the Kintai Bridge toward green hills in Iwakuni

The Kintai Bridge, and The Iwakuni Castle are hidden Gems

Iwakuni, about an hour from Hiroshima, makes a wonderful day trip. Here's how to see the Kintai Bridge, ride the ropeway to Iwakuni Castle, and add a waterfall hike.

Bright blue three-story house on a hillside street in Japan

What Buying a Home in Japan Taught Me…

If I'd known these six things before buying a home in Japan, the process would have been much smoother, from paying without a loan to negotiating politely.

Empty red bench seats inside a clean Japanese train carriage

How living in Japan changed my mind about public transportation.

In Arizona, Texas and California, a car was essential. In Japan, I now prefer the train to driving. A reflection on how culture shapes the way we get around.

Red and yellow paper lanterns glowing overhead at the Nagasaki Lantern Festival

We visited Nagasaki Japan, you should too.

We rode the bus from Yamaguchi to see Nagasaki's Lantern Festival in the snow. Here's what we saw, what we ate, and why warm clothes make all the difference.

Living in Japan

Working in Japan

Travel in Japan

Beyond Japan

About us

We want to understand the history, and culture around us in a way that is not only intentional, but also gives our lives a broader sense of purpose. Our goal with this website is to share the places we visit, provide advice/information based on our experiences, and hopefully inspire you to love Japan as much as we do.