Last year while having dinner with our friend from Sydney who came to visit us here in Singapore, she asked me where am I going next?

“Probably Japan or Australia.” Japan is a random choice while Australia is intentional choice as she can tour me around Sydney and treat me to dinner overlooking the stunning Sydney Opera House. But she suggested going for Japan.

“I need a holiday!” I told myself as I had been constantly stress from work lately and may be suffering from burnout. After checking the forecast of “Sakura” (Cherry Blossoms) season from here, I immediately booked a ticket in Scoot (low-cost carrier flights based in Singapore) bound to Tokyo.

Travel and change of place always impart new vigor to the mind. This quote from William Least Heat Moon always rang true and reminded me of why I travel:  to learn and grow, to challenge myself, stretch my limits and foster an appreciation of both the world at large and the old familiar pillow in my single mattress.

“What you’ve done becomes the judge of what you’re going to do – especially in other people’s minds. When you’re traveling, you are what you are right there and then. People don’t have your past to hold against you. No yesterdays on the road.”

Japan is filled with interesting places to visit for your holiday. Whether you’re an old-timer or a modern maniac, you’ll definitely have a choice of your own.

Pictures speak volumes. Here are the pictures of my awesome Japan travel contrasting Zen Historic Kyoto versus Eccentric Modern Tokyo: