Hi, I’m Joy (or JJ). I grew up in Hawaii but have been living and working in Hiroshima City for nearly 30 years in tourism and education. I love sharing sustainable travel gems in Japan to help visitors and new residents not only enjoy their time here but also connect more deeply with local people, culture, and places.
“No matter how long I live here, there’s always something new to experience—hidden places to explore, fascinating people to meet, onsen to soak in, centuries-old traditions to uncover, and delicious foods and sweets to enjoy. Even in everyday life, the simplest meal or humblest home is often presented with such care and charm.”
United States of America
Joy’s stories
- Miroku no Sato: A family-friendly retro paradise
- Izakaya: A quintessential Japanese experience
- Experience Zen meditation for mental clarity, expanded awareness and peaceful stillness
- Hiroshima: A symbol of peace, reflection, remembrance and hope
- Family-friendly spots in Japan (not just Disneyland)
- Experience Tokyo’s eclectic neighborhoods as a pedestrian
- The wonder of wandering in Japan
- A tropical paradise in Hiroshima City…even in winter!
- 400-year-old Tokasan Festival celebrates the arrival of summer in Hiroshima City
- Tips for vegans and vegetarians visiting Japan
- Beauty in brokenness: Nozomi Project
