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Why 2025 Is the Year Everyone’s Falling Back in Love with Japan (Including Me)

Daniel TJ International Correspondent Tokyo, Japan

Hey there. So, if you've ever thought about going to Japan—or maybe you're one of those people (like me) who went years ago and still gets hit with random memories of konbini snacks, peaceful gardens, or the first time you saw Mt. Fuji out a train window—let me just say: 2025 is your year.

I’ve been coming to Japan for over a decade now. First as a broke backpacker, then later for work (I’m a writer-slash-roamer, don’t judge), and more recently, just because I can’t seem to stay away. But something about this year feels… different. Like Japan’s heart is beating a little louder, a little more open, and somehow, it’s ready for you, whoever you are.

It’s Easier to Feel Connected Now

Okay, first off—Japan has always been beautiful. But let’s be honest, it hasn’t always been the easiest place for foreigners to get around. I still remember getting completely lost in Osaka Station in 2011 and just giving up to eat takoyaki in defeat.

But 2025? It’s wild how much friendlier and smoother things are now. There are English signs literally everywhere, train stations have staff that actually try to help you (and not just gesture wildly), and even tiny countryside towns have QR codes to guide you through historical sites or trails.

Plus, there’s a shift. Locals seem more curious than cautious now. Like, I had this adorable old lady in Gifu stop me on the street just to give me a paper crane and ask me (in Japanese-English mix) if I’d ever been to Kyoto. I nearly cried.

No Matter Where You’re From, Japan’s Got Something for You

Seriously. Whether you’re all about food, nature, ancient history, anime, or just walking around cool cities pretending you’re in a Ghibli film—Japan’s got you covered.

🇺🇸 Americans

If you're American, you’ll love how much fusion is happening right now. I found this bar in Tokyo where a Japanese guy with purple hair was riffing jazz with a dude from Brooklyn, while people sipped sake mojitos. And food trucks? There’s one selling sushi burritos with wasabi guac. Like, what is happening—and why is it amazing?

Also, if you're into the digital nomad thing (guilty), there are new co-living spaces popping up all over the countryside. Imagine typing away on your laptop while Mount Fuji smolders quietly in the background. Yeah. That.

🇷🇺 Russians

My Russian friends always talk about the silence in Japan—the good kind. The kind that feels strong, not awkward. And 2025 has totally leaned into that vibe. If you're into hiking, Hokkaido is the place. The trails are raw, spiritual, and beautifully lonely in the best way.

You can trek from one coast to the other, passing through misty forests and tiny shrines where no one says a word but you feel seen. You get it.

🇮🇳 Indians

Vegetarians, rejoice. After years of playing “guess the fish sauce,” Japan is finally embracing plant-based cuisine. I had the most gorgeous temple meal in Kamakura—like twelve tiny dishes, all seasonal, all vegan. Plus, Indian restaurants are everywhere now, and not just the touristy kind. I had authentic chole in a little family-run shop in suburban Tokyo that nearly made me cry homesick tears (even though I’m not Indian—I was just that moved, okay?).

Also, Diwali celebrations, Bollywood film nights, and bhajan concerts? Japan’s loving the cultural exchange, and it shows.

🇹🇭 Thais

The Thai-Japanese friendship is blossoming in this super warm, vibrant way. I met a Thai family at Asakusa who told me how connected they felt to the traditions here—and I watched them light incense side by side with Japanese locals, same posture, same quiet reverence. It was beautiful.

Tokyo and Bangkok are now sister cities in tourism, so flight deals, curated travel plans, and twin events are all over the place. It’s like Japan is your spiritual cousin—same sparkle, different language.

🇨🇦 Canadians

You guys already love the quiet order and clean design of Japan, right? Now it’s even better. There are eco-lodges in places like Nara and Gifu that are so beautifully integrated into nature that you forget what year it is. Add in improved accessibility, clear signage, and the nicest countryside locals who’ll hand you fresh-picked fruit just because—it’s basically your happy place.

🇪🇺 Europeans

Japan’s always been a goldmine for cultural depth—and now, you can actually experience it. I took a pottery class in Takayama where the instructor barely spoke English, but the translator app (plus a lot of nodding and laughing) made it one of the best afternoons of my life.

There are also calligraphy cafés now. Yes. You drink wine while painting kanji on rice paper. I don’t even know how to explain how calming that was.

It’s Still Magical—Just Easier to Reach

So yeah, Japan’s still Japan. Still that mix of cherry blossoms, robot cafés, temple bells, and heated toilet seats. But now it’s more open, more accessible, and—dare I say—more human.

You don’t need to speak perfect Japanese. You don’t need to understand every custom. You just need curiosity and kindness. That’s all.

One Last Thought…

There’s this Japanese phrase I’ve always loved: Ichi-go ichi-e.
It means “one time, one meeting.” Like… this moment only happens once. Ever.

So maybe—maybe—this is your once. Your moment to come see Japan for yourself.

If it is, pack light. Bring a friend, or come solo and meet one on the train. Book the ticket. Try the weird KitKat flavor. Take the slow train. Watch the sunset from a ryokan window. Breathe.

Japan’s waiting for you!

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