Authentic travel experiences in Japan — told gently, from the heart.
Hi, and welcome! I’m so glad you’re here.
Refined Japan is a cosy little corner of the internet where I share stories and discoveries from everyday life and travel in Japan — all written with care, and guided by a love for Japanese aesthetics and the beauty of small, meaningful details.
This isn’t your typical Japan travel blog.
Rather than only focusing on the big, famous spots, I love to highlight places and moments that feel personal, thoughtful, and quietly beautiful.
Think peaceful temples, family-friendly cafés, handmade crafts, and quiet backstreets you might never find in a guidebook — along with curated guides and inspiring lists to help you explore more deeply.
Whether you’re planning a trip or just dreaming from afar, I hope you’ll find ideas that feel warm, thoughtful, and just a little bit inspiring.
I write about:
- Slow travel in Japan — the kind where you really take in your surroundings and appreciate the aesthetics of everyday life.
- Hidden gems with local charm and design rooted in Japanese aesthetics.
- Family-friendly places that are quiet, welcoming, and filled with heart.
- And the small, beautiful moments that reflect the heart of daily life in Japan.
So grab a cup of tea, make yourself comfy, and let’s explore Japan — slowly, and with intention.
Thanks for being here 🧡
Meet the Curator Behind Refined Japan
I was born in Aichi and grew up all across Japan — from the urban buzz of Tokyo and Kanagawa to the cultural warmth of Fukuoka. My parents loved to travel and made sure my brother, sister, and I experienced as much of Japan as possible. By the time I was in high school and university, I had explored from the snowy landscapes of Hokkaido to the tropical vibes of Okinawa.
Those early adventures sparked my lifelong love for travel and a deep appreciation for Japan’s regional charm and quiet, everyday beauty.
Seeing Japan from Afar
These days, I live in New Zealand with my husband and our little boy. We travel back to Japan about once a year — and every time I return, I see it with new eyes. I carry both the familiarity of someone who grew up there and the fresh perspective of someone rediscovering it all over again. That in-between feeling is what inspires Refined Japan.
Living in New Zealand, I’m surrounded by raw, untouched nature — wild coastlines, vast skies, and ancient forests. It’s breathtaking in its scale. But it also made me appreciate something different about Japan: its quiet intentionality. In Japan, beauty often hides in the details — the grain of a wooden bowl, the stillness of a garden, or the shape of a tiny train station. I didn’t fully notice these things until I stepped away.
This blog is my way of sharing not just where to go, but how to see.
I believe travel isn’t about checking off landmarks — it’s about slowing down, noticing textures, and connecting with a place on a deeper level.
Whether you’re into Japanese aesthetics, hidden cafés, family-friendly spots, or just looking for a more mindful way to explore Japan — I hope you’ll feel right at home here.
Connect with Refined Japan
Looking for visual inspiration?
We’re always curating beautiful things on Pinterest — from artisan crafts and cosy cafés to architectural gems and nature spots across Japan.
🔗 Follow Refined Japan on Pinterest
Got a question, a story to share, or an idea for collaboration?
I’d love to hear from you. Head over to the Contact page and say hello anytime!
