A Solo Journey to Japan After Military Discharge

After enduring 1 year and 6 months of military service, I finally fulfilled a long-held dream I had cherished during my time in training camp: visiting the lake featured in 'Your Name.' With excitement, I booked a flight to Osaka and planned my itinerary based on the travel videos of YouTuber 'Ijaban.' On the first day, I landed at Kansai Airport and immersed myself in the local atmosphere of Osaka, truly feeling the essence of Japan. The second day was spent at Universal Studios, one of the world's top amusement parks, where I shook off the stiffness from my body and enjoyed thrilling rides. On the third day, I traveled to Kyoto, a neighboring city, to explore cultural heritage sites and compare its unique charm to Osaka. The fourth day began with an early morning trip to Nagoya, where I marveled at the grandeur of Nagoya Castle and spent time at the observation deck, enjoying both day and night views. I ended the day with a few drinks in the bustling downtown area. The fifth day was the highlight of my trip: visiting Suwa, the setting of 'Your Name.' The train journey was mesmerizing, with breathtaking natural scenery and occasional torii gates that sparked my imagination. Upon arriving in Suwa, I left my luggage at the hotel and spent six hours at Tateishi Park, capturing the vast beauty of Lake Suwa with my eyes. The experience made me reflect on my upcoming transition into civilian life, which feels both exciting and daunting. I concluded the day at a pub near the station. On the final sixth day, I traveled to Tokyo, Japan's capital. I indulged in some otaku culture in Akihabara and bought gifts for friends. Tokyo's vibrant nightlife left a lasting impression, with its never-dimming lights amplifying my bittersweet feelings about leaving. Before boarding my flight back to Korea, I decided to write this reflection. Although I originally intended to keep a journal, I found it difficult to capture my thoughts, so I settled for this post instead. This trip to Japan was truly "like a dreamscape, filled with breathtaking scenery."