Being a 19-year-old woman traveling through the Far East back in the ’80s was no easy feat. In many ways, it felt like I was venturing into uncharted territory—not just geographically, but also socially and culturally. With only $500 to my name, I had to rely on my wits, resourcefulness, and a good deal of determination to make it work!
But despite the struggles, those years shaped me in ways I could never have imagined. I encountered a richness of culture, saw parts of the world most people only dream of, and gained a deep understanding of myself. Looking back, I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything. The difficulties were just part of the journey, and in the end, they made the adventure all the more meaningful.
THIS IS ME IN “THE PIT” AS WE CALL IT.
Living in Japan in a tiny apartment was an experience I’ll never forget. The apartment itself was smaller than most walk-in closets back home, but somehow it became my little sanctuary in a foreign country. I soon learned that it didn’t take much to create a home.
Despite the cramped quarters, it taught me something about contentment. I didn’t need a lot of things to feel fulfilled. Living in that tiny apartment was a reminder that sometimes the best things in life don’t come in large packages—they come in small moments, fleeting encounters, and quiet spaces where you learn to make the most of what you have.
White Irises
Ogawa Kazumasa
Cherry Blossom
Ogawa Kazumasa
This me at *age* hiking in the Himalayas
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