My hobby is traveling. I first realized that I loved traveling after planning my own trips. I could decide everything according to my preferences, such as the places I really wanted to visit, things I wanted to see, food I wanted to eat, as well as the purpose of the trip, the duration, and the cost. These individualized tours leave a lasting and memorable impression on my heart. There are several aspects of traveling that I truly enjoy.
First, it starts before the actual trip. Gathering information about the destination, organizing necessary documents, and ensuring a smooth journey is essential. The most challenging part is selecting the information from the vast amount available, tailored to my budget and time constraints. By looking at photos of landscapes that change with the seasons, historical landmarks, and enticing local food, I immerse myself in the experience as if I were already there. I also need to carefully plan the itinerary and transportation options.
Then comes the day of the trip. Often, the information I researched differs from the reality on the ground. As a result, deviations from the planned schedule happen quite frequently. However, I find this to be the charm of traveling. For example, the actual scenery may be less impressive than in photos, or traditional sweets may be surprisingly delicious or disappointing. The weather might suddenly turn bad, or the bus schedule may change, leading to extended travel times. Unexpected encounters and events, like stopping by a recommended shop by a station attendant and missing a flight, make planning your own trip all the more exciting. Experiencing things firsthand, seeing, hearing, touching, and tasting everything makes it all truly personal. By experiencing the diversity and vastness of the world, my perspective broadens, and my heart becomes richer.
Traveling is often seen as a way to refresh one’s mind. It offers a break from the daily routine and a chance to be placed in a new environment, encountering novel experiences. When traveling, I wonder what new sights I will see, what enjoyable events will happen, similar to reading a novel. Worries and the burdens of daily life gradually dissipate during the trip. Instead, I am left with cherished and delightful memories.
For me, traveling is a source of nourishment for the heart and soul. The lush green grass of Nara Park, the clear blue sky peeping through cotton candy-like clouds, crisp autumn mornings, and interactions with people at the travel destination—all of these allow me to reflect on myself. I can have meaningful conversations with myself. Traveling not only widens knowledge and perspective but also comforts the heart and fosters personal growth. This, I believe, is one of the most valuable rewards for me.