In 1993, right after graduating from high school, I spent 11 weeks in Nodashi, Japan—about an hour by train from Tokyo. It was my first time in Asia. That year, the rainy season lasted longer than usual. I still remember the hot, humid air in the subway after I arrived at the airport and the condensation on many of the walls. I had never experienced anything like it—it was exciting.

Japan felt as if I were visiting another planet, yet it was oddly welcoming. I loved the energy of that country.

Still, the modern side of Japan was a bit overwhelming for me. I remember not enjoying my brief visit to Akihabara, Tokyo’s technology quarter. I also found Japanese TV rather stressful—especially the ads. Then again, when I think of Japan, it’s the other memories that usually come to mind.

I remember the complete silence after each tornado and how I listened intently to the first cicada that broke that silence. I remember the patches of bamboo forests I stumbled upon, buying bananas, and how free food samples were handed out at one of the supermarkets.

I recall meeting people from various countries, cruising around town on a nearly-broken bicycle, and having a “conversation” with a Japanese guy I met while jogging along the river. He didn’t speak English, I didn’t speak Japanese—but for a few sentences, we understood each other perfectly.

There are so many small things I remember—I could fill pages writing just about that.

I suspect my main reason for going to Japan was to get away from home. Yet, in a strangely beautiful way, being there made a part of me feel at home for the very first time.

In Japan, I realized how unprepared I was to meet the world, yet I watched myself do it anyway. On one hand, I discovered how much I still had to learn; on the other, my journey to Japan made me feel more capable than ever.

In retrospect, I realize that I didn’t actually find a home in Japan. Rather, the country held space for me—space that allowed me to find a home within myself for the first time.

I can still evoke that feeling when I focus in the right way.

What’s the biggest gift you’ve received from traveling to another country? Leave a comment—I’d love to glimpse one of your memories!