My 18 Year Japanniversary

18 is a significant milestone—it’s the age of adulthood in many cultures, a time when individuals step into new responsibilities and opportunities. For me, these 18 years in Tokyo represent 40% of my total life, and 66.6% of my adult life. At 45, I look back with awe and gratitude at the journey that has shaped me into who I am today.

Eighteen years ago today, I landed at Narita Airport, exhilarated and apprehensive, embarking on a journey that would transform my life in ways I couldn’t imagine.

I moved to Tokyo with a plan to live here “for a few years”, but not knowing it would remain my beloved home 18 years later. Tokyo was a dream I had had – a vision that captivated me in 2002 when I visited Japan during the World Cup, which it co-hosted with South Korea. With a gut feeling, I took the plunge.

The decision to move here was one of the most rewarding risks I’ve ever taken. Since then, Tokyo has been a city of boundless discovery and growth, and its ceaseless evolution has been a source of inspiration. Every corner of the city holds old and new wonders. I feel the city’s pulse in my veins and find joy in exploring its endless nooks and crannies.

My life here has unfolded in vibrant chapters. I’ve lived in four different apartments and held three jobs before diving into entrepreneurship, travel, and launching Maction Planet in February 2017.

2023 marked a triumphant return to normalcy after the pandemic. It was our first full year back, and it was a record-breaker. We were fully booked, a testament to Tokyo’s enduring allure and the resilience of our community.

Earlier this month, Maction Planet announced it has been recognized as a 2024 Travellers’ Choice award-winner for Tokyo and Japan Tours. Based on a full year of Tripadvisor reviews, Maction Planet has consistently received exceptional traveller feedback, placing it in the top 10% of hospitality businesses worldwide.

Kanpai Planet, our Japan drinks content platform, continues to grow from strength to strength. With almost 7500 subscribers on the YouTube channel, the platform has a vibrant community. I have committed to one long-form video a month in 2024 and so far, so good. These coming months are going to bring some exciting plans for Kanpai Planet, so stay tuned!

Looking ahead, I’m thrilled to make a special announcement: “125 in 2025″—I will personally guide ‘only’ 125 tours in 2025. While I have been guiding far more tours in recent years, this goal is about deepening the quality of each experience. It’s about focusing on creating more intimate, personalized tours that truly capture the essence of Tokyo. Limiting the number of tours will help me ensure that every moment is memorable and exceptional. It’s a conscious choice to enhance the depth of connection and experience for our guests. As of today, 20% of those dates have already been reserved. As always, book early to avoid disappointment.

Living in the right place undeniably empowers. I’m grateful to my younger self for taking that leap. I hope anyone still searching for their place finds what they’re looking for.

Here’s to 18 incredible years in Tokyo and many more adventures ahead.

We continue…

Mac
4 August 2024

Maction Planet runs bespoke Private Tours and Experiences in Tokyo, and beyond. To book yours, or to purchase a gift card, contact us at info@mactionplanet.com

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