About

Hi (こんにちわ), I’m Franand welcome to my little corner of the internet.

My obsession with Japan didn't start with a plane ticket or a documentary. It started years ago in the comfort of my own apartment, during a time where I wasn't in the best headspaceand I came across the Yakuza series (Ryu Ga Gotoku) looking for a distraction. I wasn't expecting a videogame to flip a switch in my brain, but it did, and the more I followed the story, the more curious I became about the world behind it: the language, the culture, the people, the everyday details tucked into the background.

Fast forward to 2025, and I finally stepped onto Japanese soil for the first time. The experience didn't "complete" anythingit made the obsession worse in the best possible way. Now, I'm even more fascinated, especially by the Edo period, the traditional towns, and the quiet magic of everyday life there. 

This blog is where I collect all of that: my curiosity, my research, the things I learn and the things I lovewhether it's travel, culture, language, food, or the small details that make Japan feel endlessly rich.

BUT JAPAN ISN'T MY ONLY PERSONALITY TRAIT

Here's the truth, I'm a whole person outside of this topic, and I like bringing all those sides here with me.

When I'm not writing or deep-diving into Japanese culture, you'll probably find me:

  • playing videogames (anything story-driven, turn-based, or cosy is my weakness)
  • watching Asian dramas or period films
  • reading something I promise I'll finish "this time"
  • learning Japanese at a snail's pace but with much enthusiasm

I also tend to write with my current song of the moment looping on repeat in the backgrounda tiny habit that puts me in the right headspace. Half the posts on this blog have their own accidental soundtrack because of it, whether it's Stray Kids, Snowman, or Super Junior.

And I'm also a shameless lover of:

  • Pizza (my forever comfort food)
  • Mochi (because soft, sweet things are a lifestyle)
  • Tea or coffee (depending on the mood and what time of day it is)

These arent't specifically "Japan facts", but they're parts of who I am and they naturally shape the way I experience and write about the world.

WHAT YOU'LL FIND HERE

Think of this blog as a mix of:

  • cosy deep dives into Japanese culture
  • reflections from my trip and future travels
  • things I learn while studying the language
  • game-inspired curiosity trails
  • random thoughts that don't fit in any of the above but feel too interesting not to share

I try to keep things honest, gentle, and a little nerdyso if that's your vibe, you'll feel right at home!

COME SAY HI

You can find me on social media if you'd like to chat, share Japan recommendations, or compare favourite comfort foods.

Or just wander through the blogthere's always something new brewing.