One of my most interesting trips, in many ways. Scenic natural beauty
meets cutting-edge technology. The snow-capped peaks of Mt. Fuji are perching
against the sky. Tokyo’s mad rush is only a distant memory here, yet the 12
million-metropolis is only a 2-hour train ride away.
The Asian nation is awash with contrasts, every step of the way. Anime inspired
candy-wrapper-coloured glitz seems to blend harmoniously with ancient
traditions, whose presence is commemorated by adorned temples and holy shrines.
A display of architectural masterpieces assembled along perfectly manicured
avenues, Tokyo is art-induced titillation par excellence.
Aesthetic appeal and Asian culinary delights aside, one of the things that
impressed me most about this unusual country is how everything was built from
essentially nothing.
Having been perpetrator and victim alike, Japan’s past does not only recall heroic
ventures, but also war, atrocities and bloodshed.
Yet, the country seems to have risen like a phoenix to new life and progressed
to becoming the second largest economic power. This is particularly impressive
considering that Japan cannot lean on natural resources for additional
income. Having succeeded despite such unfavourable conditions, its
achievements put many countries to shame that are rich in natural resources but
mismanaged, thus sinking deeper into poverty by the day.
One word that comes to mind is hard-working and efficiency. People take pride
in their work, even if this involves nothing more than mopping the floors of
the subway station.
I am sure there are (racial, social,…) conflicts and animosities that people
have to face as part of their daily lives. No society is perfect, even if the
facade seem flawless. And yet seeing those hard-working people who politely bow
their heads to greet you, makes you wonder what the world would be like, if
people focussed a little more on manufacturing shiny little cars….
