By Alexandra Marie Charlotte Stahl
When I sat down with my sister in Tokyo for a traditional tea ceremony, as she enjoyed a fluffy Japanese pancake, we reflected on the deeper value of travel. Beyond simply experiencing new places, travel allows you to expand your understanding of other cultures, beliefs, religions, and habits. However, the real power of travel lies in taking time to reflect on what you’ve seen and experienced, considering what you want to take home with you—not just as memories, but as lessons that shape how you grow and develop.
I encountered countless moments of inspiration and learning during my stay in Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka. The Japanese culture, with its unique values and customs, left a deep impression on me. Here are a few lessons that stood out, shaping my thoughts and inspiring me to incorporate some of these principles into my own life.
1. Rule Conformity and Collective Responsibility
In Japan, the concept of rule conformity is not just about following laws—it’s a social contract. People follow rules not out of fear of punishment, but because they respect the collective good. From waiting in orderly lines at train stations to keeping public spaces impeccably clean, there is an unspoken understanding that individual behaviour impacts the group. I believe their rule conformity fosters harmony, efficiency, and trust in society—an invaluable social capital.
This is in stark contrast to many Western cultures, where individualism often takes precedence over collective responsibility. For example, I have experienced public transport in Madrid and New York as more noisy or chaotic, with less regard for the comfort of others. Experiencing Japan’s quiet trains reminded me of the importance of being mindful of how my actions affect others. Whether it’s respecting shared spaces or contributing positively to my community, this sense of collective responsibility is something I aim to carry forward.
2. The Mystery of Missing Trash Bins
One of the most surprising things I noticed in Japan was the scarcity of public trash bins. I am a huge tea drinker so I shortly noticed that I could not find any place to dispose of my waste. However, despite the lack of trash bins, public areas in Japan remain clean. Intrigued, I researched and discovered that following the 1995 sarin gas attacks in the Tokyo subway by the Aum Shinrikyo cult, many public trash cans were removed as a security measure to prevent potential threats. Today, while some trash bins can be found inside supermarkets, convenience stores like 7-Eleven, and other shops, they are mostly not publicly accessible, requiring one to enter the establishment to dispose of waste.
This taught me personal accountability and a deeper respect for shared environments. In Western countries, trash bins are ubiquitous and necessary to maintain clean public areas. Japan’s approach shows how societal norms and individual responsibility can create cleaner, more sustainable communities. It made me reflect on how often we rely on external systems to manage our waste and the potential for change when we take ownership of even small actions. My advice: bring your own bag with you to make sure you can carry your trash for awhile when you explore Japan!
3. The Beauty of Silence and Respect
Silence is deeply embedded in Japanese culture. I have experienced it not only as a sign of respect but also as a space for reflection. Whether during a temple visit, in a tea ceremony, or even in a business meeting, moments of silence are valued and appreciated. This contrasts with many cultures where silence can feel uncomfortable or even awkward.
For example, while dining in a Japanese restaurant, I noticed the calm and subdued atmosphere compared to the often boisterous ambience of Madrid’s lively lunch breaks or dinner culture. I’ve learned to appreciate the power of silence as a tool for mindfulness, connection, and even communication. It’s a practice I’d like to incorporate more into my daily life, both as a way to center myself and to show respect to others.
Moreover, in Japan, people are incredibly mindful of each other’s personal space and privacy. Whether on a crowded train or walking through busy streets, there’s an unspoken courtesy to avoid intrusion. This taught me the value of creating and respecting space—for others and myself. It’s a gentle reminder to cultivate environments of calm and consideration, even in busy, high-energy settings.
4. Tea as a Cup of Peace
The Japanese tea ceremony is more than just making and drinking tea—it’s a meditative practice. A break during the day to practice mindfulness, gratitude, and presence. Every movement, from whisking the matcha to serving the tea, is intentional and graceful. They call it “a cup of peace.”
This practice made me rethink how I approach my rituals, even something as simple as drinking coffee or tea or preparing meals. In Western cultures, tea or coffee breaks are often rushed, a means to an end or a short energy kick. “Let’s have a quick coffee break.” But in Japan, the act of preparing and consuming tea is treated with reverence. Doing things intentionally slow and present, I can transform a mundane habit into a form of meditation, a chance to reconnect with myself amidst the business of life.
5. The Impact of Well-Managed Infrastructure
I am so impressed. Tokyo is such a megacity with busy streets and many people – however, Tokyo’s city life remains silent and smooth. From city planning to the smallest details of daily life, Japan’s infrastructure is highly efficient. Everything seems designed to minimize inconvenience, from clear signage to well-maintained facilities. One perfect example of this is Shibuya Crossing, one of Tokyo’s most iconic landmarks. At its busiest times, an estimated 1,000 to 2,500 people cross this intersection every two minutes—enough to fill a football stadium. Despite the overwhelming flow of pedestrians, the crossing operates seamlessly, proving Japan’s ability to manage even the most complex systems with precision and order.
This reminded me of the importance of thoughtful planning—not just in physical spaces, but in life. In comparison, many cities worldwide struggle with overcrowding or poorly maintained public infrastructure. A little organization and attention to detail can go a long way in creating a smoother, more enjoyable experience for everyone.
6. The Silent Struggle of Mental Health and Perfectionism
While Japan’s cultural emphasis on harmony and respect is admirable, it also has a darker side. I had a coffee with a close friend who grew up in Tokyo during my visit. We discussed how older generations often avoid discussing emotional well-being, mental health struggles, or seeking therapy because such topics are perceived as taboo. Although younger generations are gradually becoming more open about their emotions and mental health, challenges remain.
This issue is not unique to Japan, but it manifests differently compared to Western societies where mental health discussions are becoming more normalized. Japan’s cultural values of perfectionism and self-improvement can create immense personal pressure. The phrase “Madamada desu” (“Not quite yet”), often used to humbly answer compliments, highlights this relentless strive for perfectionism. No matter how well they have accomplished their goal – it is never enough. I believe that striving for excellence is admirable, however, it’s important to recognize and address the emotional toll it can take. This insight has deepened my awareness of the balance between ambition and self-care.
Final Reflections
I experienced Japan as a nation where historic traditions, values, and beliefs meet cutting-edge technology, efficiency, and innovation. Its geographical isolation for centuries allowed it to develop a unique culture that fosters mindfulness, respect, and innovation. Travelling to Japan taught me not only about the beauty of its traditions but also about myself. It reinforced the importance of mindfulness, respect, and responsibility in daily life.
These lessons aren’t just souvenirs—they’re principles I want to carry forward, shaping how I interact with the world and the people around me. As my sister and I finished our tea and her fluffy pancake, we agreed: travel is only truly transformative if you let it change you. And my time in Japan has certainly done just that.
Featured image courtesy of Unsplash.com
