“For Tomorrow”: I Returned To Japan After The Pandemic, Here’s What I Saw (23 Pics)

I head towards my hotel and on the way I discover that many tourist places have reopened to the public, albeit with restrictions. Unlike my first trip, this time I won't just stay in Tokyo, but I will also go to Osaka and Kyoto.

I took so many photos this time, from the brand new Shibuya Sky in Tokyo to the colorful Dotonbori in Osaka, and then moving on from the Yasaka Pagoda in Kyoto to the nostalgic Kamakura beach.

This time the photographic project is called "For Tomorrow" and tells of all this, of the will to move forward despite life's adversities.

My return to Japan after the COVID-19 pandemic is a journey that changed me profoundly. It taught me to never take the things I love for granted and to be grateful for every moment I spend in this wonderful country. I hope that Japan can be an example for the whole world, showing that it is possible to overcome any crisis when we are united and care for each other.

I noticed the main difference compared to the previous trip in the organization of some structures such as the airport or even the shops and restaurants. Everyone had anti COVID-19 measures. I have to be honest though, the magic and atmosphere has never changed, maybe because I am deeply in love with Japan.

The title "For Tomorrow" comes from the legendary manga "Ashita no Joe" (Tomorrow's Joe). I wanted to tell through photos that life goes on, despite the pandemic, despite the problems that everyone has in everyday life, despite everything.

I loved Dotonbori, it was my first time in Osaka and it was incredible. Dotonbori is renowned for its street food. The streets are lined with food stalls and small eateries offering a wide variety of local delicacies. Some popular dishes include takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). The sights and smells of the food being prepared and served add to the vibrant atmosphere of Dotonbori.

In addition to its culinary delights, Dotonbori offers a lively nightlife scene. The area is filled with bars, clubs, and entertainment establishments where visitors can enjoy live music, karaoke, and performances. The energy and excitement of the nightlife make Dotonbori a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

But the place of my heart was definitely Kamakura, a small village overlooking the sea. It seemed to me like a city frozen in time, nostalgic and with a special atmosphere, which I had never experienced anywhere else, I highly recommend it!

This trip made me realize once again to never take anything for granted, I had last been to Japan in 2018 and was supposed to return the following year, but then COVID-19 happened and plans changed. I had to wait many years to return, but I must say it was worth it.

Dedication and respect for the rules are certainly characteristics that the whole world recognizes in the Japanese people and I believe that these aspects were fundamental during the pandemic.