Tiger Leaping Gorge

Hiking one of the biggest gorge’s in the world was truly one of the times on this journey where I “got my nature on.” The natural beauty left me in awe the higher I climbed. The pictures speak for themselves.

The Great Wall

That once in a lifetime feeling...

Welcome to China

The second I landed in China I stood before a vast cultural difference from the meticulous Japan I had just departed from. Definitely a place where I had to be culturally relative…The lack of Westernized ways began to take its toll on my outlook of the country i.e. spitting, smoking, and hole in the ground toilets. I was however, pleasantly surprised with the savory cuisine that put all rumors of bad food to shame! Fresh ingredients and homestyle dishes were delectable. This was only the beginning of my exploration of Chinese culture.

SUMIMASEN!!!

I had way too much fun with these guys…The havoc we reeked on Japan…memorable to say the least.

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Youngsters

As the third safest country in the world according to Frommers, Japan prides itself on the integrity of its citizens. Children can be found roaming the streets, taking trains, and going about their daily lives without adult supervision. Brother to an 8 year old, my protective worries evoked a shocking realization that these youngers were completely self-sufficient - every American parent's worst nightmare...

Though idealist, why can't every society create an environment so secure that parent's overbearing ways don't act as a buffer from the real world and its upstanding citizens? If issues were to arise, help from any righteous adult would solve the situation, as I witnessed multiple times. It is interesting to note the mutual trust and respect the Japanese have for eachother. Honor is so highly valued that their culture is imperious to the crime and danger of most international cities. 

Harajuku

The Japanese have a rather peculiar fetish for everything young. The ever popular Harajuku school girl outfits can be seen in the streets. Some shorten their skirts for a more provocative look passing out fliers for the ever popular "maid cafes" catering to men looking for some "personal attention. "

Greenescape

Japan has some of the most beautiful natural topography I have ever seen. Invigorating to my urbanized soul it was an experience I will always remember.