Keith Peters

Trip to Osaka was amazing with great food and the people were super friendly. We experienced as much as our little legs could handle, with planned rest days, and still left so fulfilled. Even snuck in a trip to Kyoto which I’m so glad we did because the temples, history, and bamboo forest, provided a different perspective to the major cities.

I continue to be in awe of the Japanese people and how everything just works. So many people operating in harmony - not in a judicious, forceful way; but a culture underlined with respect. The roads are clean, trains are on time, they wait at the traffic lights before crossing even when there are no cars within sight, they sit down to enjoy the food that has been delicately prepared (it is rude to walk and eat), they bow as a sign of respect, nobody speaks overly loud, no signs of arrogance or entitlement anywhere - except maybe from the occasional tourist.

There is something deeper here that I’m discovering. What the world would look like if you cared less about yourself, and more about your society, community, suburb, state, and country - you will actually benefit in the broader picture because you get to participate in something much larger than yourself. And in return have a safer, cleaner, healthier environment for yourself and the younger generations to follow.

The world should be taking notes from Japan 🇯🇵. Whilst we focus only on ourselves, you have demonstrated that you can build an economy, infrastructure, technology, work hard - and still remain completely respectful of others.

I’m grateful I got to experience this blissful culture with my family. We respectfully thank you Japan 🇯🇵

Dōmo arigatōgozaimasu.