Leaving it All Behind: Moving to Japan & Riding the Cat Train

Embark on a journey of farewells and new beginnings as I share the emotional rollercoaster of leaving behind everything familiar to pursue my dreams in Japan. Join me as I delve into the bittersweet moments of telling my family and friends, departure, the anticipation of the unknown, and the whimsical adventure of riding the iconic Cat Train through the heart of Japan's cultural landscape. Let's dive into the tale of letting go, embracing change, and the extraordinary experiences that await on this unforgettable journey
In this video I talk about making a move to Japan later in life. There were challenges and roadblocks along the way.
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[@I-live-and-learn]

"When you surround yourself with people who believe in you and support you, it really makes a huge difference." ❤

[@roido6614]

I left family and moving to another City, and while driving there holding back tears, all I was thinking was, don't Piss yourself. Just close this damn chapter and let's start a new and exciting one. Peace!

[@bh0666]

I like that more Japanese dialogue from your encounters is being included in your vlogs, loving your story!

[@ChaniJapan]

Thanks for commenting on that. I was trying to include all the interactions I had that day ♥️

[@RinAsami1]

I agree, I really like hearing it! It helps on my Japanese language journey myself to see how much I can pick up.

[@whartonite]

She doesn’t Talk about how she learned Japanese and where the cat came from. That left impression that she is not In Japan alone.

[@santisanti8386]

I appreciate your calmness, honesty and realness of your content, including unfiltered scenery. Your videos are pure joy.

[@ChaniJapan]

Thank you so much 😊

[@santisanti8386]

@@ChaniJapan Thank you.😊

[@JapaneseSoundscapeJourneys-j3w]

Japan is one of the most popular tourist destinations these days, but visiting as a tourist is one thing, and actually living there is another. Your videos are incredibly insightful!

[@cynthiakritika5047]

I was born in Japan and have always felt a part of me belonged there. Even though I’m an American, I love all things Japanese. It’s part of my soul 😁

[@jayneread2178]

I absolutely love your channel because I miss everything about Japan and I cannot wait to return. You are such an inspiration to anyone who needs to make a major change in their life. I have a Japanese husband and we normally visit Japan regularly. We cycle almost every day when we are there as the roads are so safe. His family home is in Yamaguchi ( sadly he is the only one in his family left now ) and I just love the area.The fruit and vegetables are so delicious, as is the food in general. As I look after my 93 year old mother here in the UK, I will not be returning for a while, as I have decided I need to be with her at least for now. So I'm not sure when I will be able to return. I look forward to seeing your channel continuing to grow. 😊

[@ChaniJapan]

Your cycling in Japan sounds great 🚲

[@HappyBerryCrochet]

Oh that stamp ended up so cute!! 😺

[@mogmateria5134]

Love your format of telling your story while showing footage of the beautiful country side! Good on you for doing what you do!

[@neptunze71]

We just got back from Japan last week and loved it. The people are polite and respectful and the country is beautiful and clean. We could learn a lot from the Japanese. Good on you for doing what your heart wanted to do. Love the videos. 👍🏼

[@ChaniJapan]

That's awesome! I am so glad you had such a great time in Japan 😀 Thanks for watching the videos too ♥️

[@B_archaeology]

IMHO this was the best vlog yet, Chani! I loved how you and your friend built up the stamped picture through various stages on this lovely train journey. The story of the station cat was also wonderful. I love your choice of unusual places in Japan. Even on a rainy day, the video was so lovely. Your life advice appears well grounded in kindness and compassion. I really enjoy your channel Chani!

[@ChaniJapan]

Thank you so much 😀

[@mefood360]

Having the skills of a second language, really a great comfort to dive into a new chapter of living there. That helps ease the insecurities dealing with locals. Like your more recently videos..telling how your you lost the confidence to speak in Japanese language during your homestay era. Must say you have managed to turn around that episode with mastering the language as your career. Of course with the help of the former foster family restoring the confidence at the early stage. They must be in the 80s now? You then managed to turn around those episode into something else, a great achievement. Having Millie is very helpful for the daily stress and keeps you company. If you, can set timers on the TV and reasonable volume, (like you and her watching TV together) that will be good. Keep her occupied. If there's a national geographic or animals, or children's programme even better. Might want to put a camera to record her behaviour.. interesting to see how they miss us as human. Best wishes.🎉

[@Soxandnicole]

Years ago, when I left IBM after 15 years to backpack around the world, pretty much everyone thought it was great. One think that surprised me was how many people told me what their dreams were. They were really too scared to make it happened. I hope my example encouraged at least one of them to go for it. I really enjoy your channel. Enjoy your adventures.

[@ChaniJapan]

Thank you 😀

[@ausmartin1]

There is something always to see & do in Japan.

[@ChaniJapan]

Yes so many things 😀

[@kklchau]

Your friend is so lucky that she can visit you in Japan

[@ChaniJapan]

Thank you ♥️ I am so lucky to have such a good friend that will come and visit 😀

[@michikoiesaka3365]

This was a very nice report of a little journey. It was very interesting to me as an American living in Japan in Tokyo. Thankyou. I hope you continue these episodes.

[@ChaniJapan]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@lilkirsche]

That cat train is soooo adorable and all stops absolutely cute. Loved that you also went strawberry picking with your friend. Must have been wonderful to make this together. Japan has so many cute things to offer. ❤️ And thanks for your honest words. I am sure it doesn't feel easy to tell us but your honesty makes you very loveable. And I understand your kids. If my parents ever decide to move abroad I would always support them. They should live their life as they wish. ❤ You raised your children well.

[@rettedurettedu9849]

Camping...omg...last time I camped in Japan was at the base of Mt. Fuji ,(1971 jamboree) and a typhoon hit us...I'm probably the wrong person to ask about camping 😂 Arigato for the video !

[@steve8567]

A lovely video Chani. I've just come back to Melbourne after three weeks in Japan. My (Japanese) wife and I did a 12 day road trip through the Tohoku Region which was terrific. I've long been aware of the cat station/train and hope to see it one day. In November 2022 we did a tour of Kyushu caught a train from Aso to Beppu that has a small black puppy mascot with white socks called Kuro (not a really imaginative name to be honest). The interior and exterior of the train (which looks like a very old design) is decorated with various cute images of Kuro, and of course they sell Kuro merchandise as well. I look forward to your future camping journeys. I've been following a number of Japanese who indulge in 'car camping' which I'd love to do. Some of campsites around the Shizuoka and Yamanashi Prefectures offer beautiful views of Fuji.

[@ChaniJapan]

Views of Fuji would be nice. I didn't know about the Kuro train 😀

[@stoic_hellenist]

I'm saving up to be able to visit Japan when I turn 50 in 3 years time. I have this dream of living some time with my husband later on.

[@waterwitch8902]

I truly appreciate your channel because I traveled quite abit in my life but I never got to Japan. I'm 68 and my life long disability has started to curb my travels. So seeing channels pertaining to Japan has given me an insight of the country. Your channel im enjoying because it's at a pace that is relaxing, informative, and gives me the feeling of traveling with a friend. So thank you and I look forward to our journey. Oh and yes camping sounds great. Stay healthy, happy and safe always.

[@ChaniJapan]

Thanks so much 😀

[@allie1953]

I am a 70-year-old retiree with very limited income so I have resigned myself to never being able to return to Japan for any more visits- so this channel is great for me to "thrill vicariously". I was last there in 1976. So much has changed, I can see from various videos. I'll always love the Showa Era Japan that I was first introduced to.

[@MissiBoo]

I love the cat train Chani 😻🚅 and I'm so glad that you made a few stops 👏 Thank you so much for sharing your journey and another beautiful video 🫶♥️

[@ChaniJapan]

Thanks so much ♥️🐱

[@allie1953]

I remember watching a show about the cat train on NHK World Japan, in the docuseries called "Japan Railway Journal. I enjoyed seeing it again via your own experience! 😃

[@dv2031]

You are blessed. You are young, fluent in Japanese, have years of teaching experience, a native English speaker. I used to dream of living in Japan but time has lapsed for me. I m now 64, with lots of aches and pains in my body. I don't speak Japanese and it would be tough for me to live in Japan at my age as 😢

[@dianesavant2818]

Same here😢

[@Carol61347]

Hi Chani, just found your channel , you’re living my dream, understand the dream is occasionally a blooming nightmare but, In love with Japan. I have just come back from 5 weeks in Tokyo where I went to a language school, really hard, plus went to the school in the morning and spent the afternoon getting lost on the subway. I am a true follower now, and hang on each of your words. I am much older than you, and still have your dreams of living in Japan for a few months and studying Japanese. I have a volunteer position where I speak Japanese 3 days a week (very disjointed). I am truely envious and in total admiration of your life’s journey🤗🌸🤩🫶ブリスベンにすんでいます

[@ChaniJapan]

How excellent that you get to speak Japanese in that role❤️🌸 I hope you get back here to live and study.

[@PuckTales]

Great vlog, as always! My husband and I are facing similar circumstances as we tell our friends and family that our family of four (including two small kids) is moving to Japan. I figure the ones with a negative mindset will come around after the move, when they realize how happy we are there!

[@BrantRaven]

Oh Channi...I hang out so much for your videos now days. So simple and yet beautiful. I love your adventures. I totally live vicareously through you!!

[@ChaniJapan]

Thank you so much! 😀♥️

[@SoulCareOver50]

I love how your tickets develop the story of your trip. You are so brave to start a new life in a different country. One day I hope to drum up the courage to do the same!

[@lolsson7]

Nice uplifting video, thank you! The cat train and the gradual sticker was cute. I would appreciate a camping video, sounds like a fun experience.

[@ChaniJapan]

Thanks so much 😀

[@diealexus]

This is such a nice and wholesome video! It's important to understand peoples' reactions when being told such big news. It's often enough worry because they don't want anything to happe to the other person. It's so important that you mention boundaries, because many people do not understand they they are crossing some lines. Glad to hear that your children were super supportive and understanding!

[@ChaniJapan]

Thank you so much!!

[@Dorwynn]

What a lovely way to see Japan with your friend. So jealous, those strawberries looked amazing.

[@ChaniJapan]

🍓 so sweet

[@kan-e7s]

お二人で楽しそうですね😊

[@ericam3270]

Camping is a great idea. I’m sure it’ll be a very different experience to QLD camping 😂 look forward to the next vid really enjoying your videos and your perspective on things!

[@ChaniJapan]

Thanks so much 😀

[@dyanalayng5507]

You have so many interesting videos, Chani. I’m trying to catch up with them all! ❤🇨🇦 Cat train! ❤

[@KarenTraversari-c2o]

Loved, loved this video!

[@ChaniJapan]

🩷👋 Hi Karen🩷🩷 Miss you

[@LiquidFlower]

This vlog got me all teary eyed. That looked like a great trip and a nice reflection on life 😊 also didn’t know you had kids! I’m glad they were in full support of your endeavours.

[@ChaniJapan]

Thank you so much!!

[@MP-lv5vk]

In my mind, my going outward should encourage people to visit and see more of the world. I know that some friendships grow because of proximity but, with effort, the best friendships endure over space and time. I know when I visit people in Sydney that it can feel like I never left.

[@LanetteBarnard]

Thats real frienship. Your friend made a effort to go & visit you. Thankyou for sharing it with us

[@Crit-Chance]

If your friends and family knew how well you speak the language, I doubt anybody would've tried to discourage you. You have grasped the nuances of the language so well, it sounds like you were born and raised there.

[@juliebodin6948]

I totally agree with your comments about having the support and mentorship from others who encourage you to pursue your dreams. It makes all the difference when you weigh up the pros and cons of such a big change in your life. You are having an amazing experience that I am sure many women of our shared vintage wish we had taken when we were younger. I made quite a few big decisions that changed the trajectory of my career and my future when I was in my late 20s and every time my question was "how will I look back on this when I am an older/elderly person?" I never want to be reflecting on my life by wondering "what if ....?" for all the things I wanted to try but didn't. My life is so much richer from these experiences with mostly wonderful, happy memories.

[@suzie5772]

I’m so glad that everyone has been so supportive of your dreams, especially your children. You are so brave and seem so happy to have followed your dreams. Blessings for your future and everything you do. Camping sounds a wonderful experience. X

[@ChaniJapan]

Thank you so much!!

[@Djw8991]

Really appreciate how realistic you are about Japan compared to a lot of other people's videos. I was nervous too before I started applying for jobs in Japan that my family would try to keep me from going but everyone was super supportive I don't think they even really considered telling me no. Unfortunately had to come back during training cause the pay and exchange rate would have been impossible to live off of with my student loans here in the states. But hopefully I'll be able to make it back within the next few years with a different job, until then watching videos like yours help fill that void lol.

[@RumMonkeyable]

Not much of a camper, BUT staying at historic ryokans (Japanese inns) is what I would pick. Glad your friend could visit you! Great video. 👍👏❤😍

[@ChaniJapan]

I am thinking of camp car with a bed and take Millie along for the ride 🐱

[@RumMonkeyable]

@@ChaniJapan Look forward to your car camping video(s). 👍🥰

[@shawnmariemann]

The cat train is wonderful! I would have had to buy one of everything in the shop. And I like that you continued to tell your story while showing us film from your travels. I'm not a fan of just staring at someone while they tell their story. Love this video.

[@ChaniJapan]

Thank you so much!

[@sassafrasdent4557]

What a lovely trip with your friend 😊The scenery was so pretty & I really enjoyed hearing more of your story. It was cool seeing you collect all of the train stamps too 😻

[@ChaniJapan]

It is a great spot

[@noreenmary3300]

Thank you for sharing this happy time with your friend. Love the Cat Train! 🤗

[@ChaniJapan]

Thanks for watching!

[@christopherlaw9184]

A lovely story here. Camping sounds good and interesting 🎉 Do it and bring us all along 🙏🏼

[@ChaniJapan]

OK will do 😀

[@stormrise5330]

This is wonderful. Thank you so much for sharing your story- past and ongoing! It's so good to see something inspirational for those of us who have felt stuck, or reached a crossroads with no clear path ahead. Your advice is steady, constructive and thoughtful. I've moved overseas, and lived alone in countries where I've had no friends or families, and it's been an incredible journey of learning and enrichment for which I'm grateful. I'll enjoy following your adventures, and wish you all the joy you so obviously deserve.

[@carolynthompson6518]

Fabulous video. Can’t wait to see your camping trip ❤

[@ChaniJapan]

OMG me too! All I can think about is what it would be like camping here in Japan. I think the long winter has made me want to get outdoors more 😆

[@carolynthompson6518]

@@ChaniJapan I belong to Rolling Solo (female only) camping group in Australia. It is a fantastic group of all ages (I’m sure I’m the eldest lol). This will be fantastic to see - thank you so much ♥️

[@gaurdiandevl13]

Consistently heartwarming content and I appreciate hearing about the support you received from family.

[@iwatcutube]

Kishi station looks adorable! Thanks for another great video :)

[@pavlos8844]

Great video as always! Going camping in Japan surely sounds interesting!

[@allie1953]

It does! I will be looking forward to any videos from that new adventure!

[@Sirius13jhp]

I love your videos, this one hits really hard, I moved to Ireland and none of my friends in my home country has ever tried to visit me 😞, is good and refreshing to see for some people there’s a healthy balance with the friendship and not just one side.

[@bethduffey247]

As usual, your format today was exceptional, heart-warming, and honest. You gave me the added benefit of your visit to the strawberry farm. My Japanese mother-in-law raised strawberries in the Nara countryside, years ago, to support her children’s university expenses in Tokyo. I would visit and help when berry season was happening. I almost could reach through the video screen and taste those strawberries with you, walking down memory lane! Thank you!

[@ChaniJapan]

So sweet 🍓

[@CAsaidit]

Just found your channel and enjoying it very much. Growing up I was always going back and forth between Japan and the US, but as an adult I’m now very much based in the US. I’ve dreamt of uprooting my life and going to Japan for good, but likely not an option for a very long time. So living vicariously through you for now! I look forward to many more videos from you!

[@paulsharp695]

I really love the pacing of the videos, the nice visuals with comentary over. As an Aussie in my 40's contemplating a move to Japan, I love the topics you cover, including cost of living / housing, tranport (all forms from Kei cars, bike to shinkansen) and tourism. I also love the personal story and narrative. Keep up the good work, I feel like you have a growing content. Some ideas for future video's that i'd be interested to see: Process of getting trades people and costs. More Hardware stops :D Maybe a visit to Koya San (Near where you are) Language and learning while living in JP vs studying abroad.

[@ChaniJapan]

Thanks Paul. Some great ideas. I will try and incorporate these. Just had tradies here yesterday so I’ll make a vid on that.

[@masegraye]

Thank you for sharing this. My family will likely be making a similar move. I've been dreading some of the conversations we'll inevitably have with the broader family. Hearing your story calms my nerves somewhat.

[@ChaniJapan]

You got this!

[@paulwalther5237]

You were a Japanese teacher. I would say it's about time you moved to Japan if you had asked me lol. It's just so obvious that someone who not only learns a language but makes a career out of teaching it to others would want to try living in that country. I haven't been camping per se in Japan but we went hiking and did the outdoor camping style meals. It was great fun. With all the mountains and rainfall, Japan has some of the most beautiful hiking or camping areas that nature has to offer.

[@micgant]

This looked like a wonderful trip. I also think he fruit in Japan is the best! I long for their fruit and when I go back, I'm going to eat as much fruit as possible. Especially the strawberries. I hope you had lots of fun with your friend. The cat train is cool! I also didn't know about the stamps. I'll look out for those the next time I go. I can't wait to come back :)

[@JovinWu]

You are right about ignoring discourages and negative comments about your choice in living in Japan. You live your own life! You made it :) Your videos inspire me to work towards my dream to work and live in Japan with my family. Should I be looking for a job in Japan first before I start to plan for my kids and housing matters? Looking forward to many positive videos from you.

[@ChaniJapan]

Yes I think a job and visa is the starting place 😀

[@Julie-ii9px]

What a lovely day out with your friend. ❤

[@raymonde4272]

It so wonderful Chani that your children are so supportive of your choices. The train and stops along the way are very sweet and I'm sure the communities appreciate the boost to the local economy from tourism.

[@ChaniJapan]

I agree that the local economy does need support not just the big cities!

[@naomic9070]

Thank you for sharing your dream of living in Japan. I’ve watched all of your videos and look forward to following along. I didn’t think I had much interest in Japan but I just realized I’m working on a Sashiko sewing project while listening. I also drive a Mazda. 😂

[@irenecase7786]

I would imagine Chani it will take maybe a year or two before you will feel totally acquainted with Japan and your new surroundings. You have achieved so much in a short time and as your confidence gets stronger who knows you may move elsewhere but always remember Chani Australia is not going anywhere. Sending you best wishes for your future CARPE DIEM 🇬🇧

[@beatcomber]

Regarding your next adventure, camping in Japan sounds like fun! According to my Japanese wife, yakisoba is a popular “camping food,” so bring some of that along!

[@james7149]

Words of wisdom as always thanks Chani. I think how we define family these days is a consideration and might affect your determination to follow your dreams. I’ve found “blood is thicker than water” to be not necessarily true. The Cat train journey was a delight…I can see a station featuring the beautiful Millie? Could be her day job😉

[@allie1953]

I agree with you about "family", James.

[@tracyokuno2120]

Thank you for taking me on your journey with you friend. I love 💕 listening to your storytelling. I always look forward to your videos. By the way cute purse 👛 😊. Until your next adventure!

[@ChaniJapan]

Thank you so much!

[@Amelia-sj4zo]

You are so inspiring ❤ I have only just found your channel and I am so addicted. You have no idea how much listening to you is helping me through a tough time right now so I thank you. 💫🌍

[@ChaniJapan]

I'm so glad!🩷🩷😽

[@kronprinzschaf9090]

Thank you for sharing your experiences. I really like how you blend your thoughts with videos of trips and other activities. And I’d love a video about camping in Japan!

[@ChaniJapan]

Thank you so much!

[@vigerminaberrios4116]

Chani I like your videos so much, they are very relaxing and interesting. Thanks for sharing Japan with us ❤

[@sylviekins]

Thank you! I love cats, and really want to travel to Japan next year. It is a huge step to move to a new country with another language and culture. My mother’s cousin did this in the 1960s for many years, so exciting for us as children, hearing about her life. Thank you for your wisdom❤

[@denisepacey125]

This was so interesting. I loved seeing the ticketing process, the stations and of course the station cat. The restaurant and food looked amazing. I always like the detail in your videos. ❤

[@cindyenglert.az51]

I’ve heard from several Japanese you tubers that the strawberries are amazing!! Glad you had fun with your friend.

[@RinAsami1]

I just wanted to comment again that I love your videos. I really look forward to them. I appreciate the natural, down to earth presentation, and you have such a great format overall. No background music or disingenuous promos as I've seen in some of my previous favorite channels. Thank you so much for bringing us along on your journeys.

[@ChaniJapan]

Thank you so much!

[@allie1953]

I agree! It's all very authentic.

[@allie1953]

I just finished binge-watching your wonderful channel and have run out of videos. I look forward to your next one! 😃

[@ChaniJapan]

Welcome aboard!

[@DaCheat100]

Your story is so inspiring and uplifting. thank you for sharing it with us! Also, had you not stated your age, I would have guessed you only in your early 40s! Haha, regards from rural Victoria.

[@ChaniJapan]

Thank you so much!

[@gabbadd5840]

Used to live in Japan and dream to return in retirement . I wonder if we can buy a house there without working there? Thanks love your content, so soothing and inspiring!

[@pjpororo323]

Hey Chani, am comforted to hear your story, thank you for your honest sharing. In fact I am at this cross road too. I will be heading to Japan Kanto prefecture on a campervan. Am keen to hear more about your life in Japan how do you settle down

[@alinaroata2005]

I can’t believe you received such rude and immature comments! I am shocked! I just found your channel today and I listen to your videos while cleaning up my house and I am afraid I will run out of videos to okay 🤭🥰♥️. I love you style, I love the clear explanations and am grateful for the time you took to make them and post them 🙏🏻♥️. Congratulations on staying young at heart and following your dreams ♥️

[@ChaniJapan]

Thank you for your kind words! I appreciate you watching 😊.

[@lizzie7929]

Love the cats and the strawberries 🐈🎩🍓

[@traveller_andrew]

As a fellow Aussie expat, thank you for your realness and openness in this video! One thing I'd recommend if you're negotiating a package before you move to a new city is to have a set period once per year when you can go back home, whether that's for 2 days or 2 weeks. I go back for Christmas and WFH as well, it makes the time living overseas so much more enjoyable. PS: where I live is my home, just as much as it's your home.

[@ChaniJapan]

Well said!

[@allie1953]

As a former expat I agree: Having that planned period for visiting home helps one through the more difficult times when living abroad.

[@rebeccakemmery2916]

Loved this little excursion. Thanks for sharing your experiences.

[@ChaniJapan]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@YoureNowOnTV]

Thanks for sharing. I went to Japan for the first time last year (2023) for 4 weeks using the JR Pass to go from Tokyo to Wakkanai (Hokkaido) then to Kagoshima and the back up on the East coast to Tokyo. I had every intention of camping as much as possible but only camped out twice. One reason was the first week I was there the TV news was showing a man mushroom picking fighting off a wild bear. That kinda put me off. Though when I was at a camp ground in Hokkaido the closest I came to danger was the mosquitos and a couple of very playful Squirrels. I'll be going back in October/November for 4 weeks again and I'm not sure what to do about camping again. I think it would be lots of fun but Hotels are so much easier when you have had a full day of traveling and experiencing new things. Maybe trip three I'll go camping more. ☺👍⛺

[@ChaniJapan]

Bears and mosquitos don't sound fun to me! I am thinking of ocean/water front camping for now. ⛺️

[@carmensiordia7097]

Thank you for posting such a lovely video and sharing your journey. My mother is Japanese but never visited Japan. I know I will someday. For now I enjoy Japan vicariously through your adventures! Looking forward to camping or anything else you post!

[@sckysky193]

Thank you Chani for sharing your life experience with us. All of us share the same insecurities in life, ie how people will judge us, how our appearance look like to others, why people are ridiculing us etc. As long as you know your thoughts, intentions and actions are good and executed to the best of your abilities, and harmed no one, ignore all the negativities coming your way. Wishing you a very happy and rewarding life in Japan, really enjoyed your videos. Love the positivity and encouragement you give us. All the best! ⭐️

[@ChaniJapan]

Thanks for your kind words ❤️

[@mariab1429]

I had been introduced to the stamps at train stations through @sharlainjapan videos. I didn't know you could paint with them! So cool! 😁🥰

[@BitterCurrant]

Absolutely would love to see you go camping, even if just once or twice. It's highly dependent on how "rugged" you want to go, and also shows how resourcefull you can be which I think you've been on your journey to/in Japan.

[@ductritran8637]

2018 I visit Sapporo and this is the first time I ate Japan strawberry . I’m not a fan of strawberry but this very expensive strawberry has change my mind , the smell of that strawberry, the tastes is out of this world . Till today I couldn’t find one that as good as the Strawberry I ate in Sapporo . Back to Melbourne during the strawberry we can drive to the farm and pick them but never as good as the one i bought in Sapporo. 😊

[@gracenoel5530]

LOVE your cat. She's so beautiful.

[@ChaniJapan]

Thank you 🐱 Yesterday she was a little monster because she wasn't getting enough attention.

[@musictoliveby08]

Such a fun trip!! I love Traveler's Company notebooks and the stamping fun, so seeing this experience during your trip was a super special treat! 😍I plan to visit Japan one day and your journey is very meaningful. Thanks so much for sharing your experiences about your journey, Chani. Many blessings to you. 💞 Suzanne 😊

[@catarinaassuncao157]

Best video of my week. Thank you Chani ❤

[@ChaniJapan]

Wow, thank you!

[@tacitusromanus8239]

What a beautiful place you and your friend visited! I must visit there too on my next trip to Japan. Thanks for sharing this adventure with us. Enjoy spending time with your friend.

[@ChaniJapan]

Thanks so much 😀

[@Bunjibing]

Lovely video, Chani! Would love to take the cat train. The stamp is amazing! Camping! I would loved to see more of the countryside as the weather warms up!

[@siehmabel3898]

I'd love to see you go camping and show us where you go, how you plan and what you do during the trip. Please make a video on camping. Thank you!

[@ChaniJapan]

Will do!

[@KAINREDIC]

I would love to see camping in Japan. My family loves to camp in the USA and we would like to see the difference. Maybe it will help us have an opportunity to camp in Japan!

[@AverageBot]

I'm glad I found your content. I'm contemplating whether or not I should really try and make the step to move to japan and your videos give me a boost to my confidence that it might work out. Since my language proficency isnt there at all (might be around N5 if not lower) I think the right step would be to enroll in a language school for 2 years. I'm kinda sad that I missed the opportunity to go for a work&travel visa, but tbh I hadn't any savings anyways so I was pretty hestiant for a while until I missed that timeframe :/ My plan is to enroll next spring if all works out. We will see I guess?

[@tanyahouston5635]

That pizza looked delicious! The postcard stamping was interesting-I like that it is practically no fail. Neat idea!

[@stoic_hellenist]

It was lovely to see something of the Tree god Shinto shrine - please include more of this whenever you get the chance 🙏

[@vivianawilliamslondon]

Thank you for taking us with you and your friend! I would love to pick and eat strawberries!!

[@ChaniJapan]

They were so sweet 🍓

[@micheleoakley296]

Wakayama is on our list of places to visit when we head off to Japan next year. It will be our 3rd time visiting Japan. I don’t know if I could live there but it is definitely my happy place

[@ChaniJapan]

Please do come to Wakayama. It is a great spot 😃

[@martasonia]

What a lovely trip. Thank you for taking us with you....