As with all chapters of my life, the few pages I spent in Japan have left a permanent mark. It’s in my newfound appreciation for silence, my depleted tolerance for mediocre sushi, and the unforgettable dread I felt on the journey home. How could I just leave with so much left to discover?

I did my best with the time I had—and with the clearest mind I could manifest—to learn every lesson this place offered.

I arrived with my faction at the tail end of an unusually hot summer with no real plan beyond our centrally located apartments in Tokyo. To some, this lack of structure might seem chaotic. However, I’ve found that if a few basic principles are followed, I can gain my footing almost anywhere.

A quick disclaimer: I avoid tourist traps, preferring to live among working-class locals whenever possible. These tips may not resonate with those seeking the curated resort experience. Additionally, as a large African American man, I recognize that intersectional results will vary by locale.

Here are the three principles that guided my journey.

The 1st principle: Click the link below to read the full-story.