Takasaki, Japan

I lived here for two years. I personally had no struggles here. I even went back recently to visit some folks who I’ve named my Japanese family.

On this trip, my friend and I met up with my Japanese family to paint our own daruma dolls. It was a great experience because we learned about its religious importance and how we can use it when making wishes, prayers, or goals.

Another thing to do, which I had already done before, is visit Kannon Yama, a mountain where you can see the statue of the goddess Kannon.

I forgot to eat the yaki manju before leaving, so I’m sad, but highly recommend you share amongst friends and give this salty sweet snack a try.