Lessons in Simplicity and Restoration from Nagano, Japan

On a recent trip to Japan, I escaped to the quiet countryside of Nagano. Far from the hurried pace of city life, the slower rhythm of this region created space to notice details that might otherwise fade into the background.

The buses, ryokans, and community spaces had clearly seen years of use. Yet, their well-worn appearance was part of their beauty—a testament to craftsmanship, care, and a philosophy of longevity. These objects weren’t just old; they were thriving examples of how things age gracefully when designed to last.

In a world that often glorifies the new and shiny, this was a gentle reminder of the quiet dignity in things—and lives—that are cared for over time.

A Meeting with the Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani

We trekked through snow-laden trails to reach the hot springs of Jigokudani, where the famous snow monkeys go about their lives. Watching them bathe in the steaming water, their eyes half-closed in contentment, I couldn’t help but see a reflection of myself in their tranquil gaze.

These macaques live simply, instinctively. The mother with her baby on her back reminded me of how interconnected we are—humans, animals, the Earth itself. We often act as though we’re above it all, but moments like these are humbling. We share this planet, and with that comes the responsibility to care for it, not just for ourselves but for every being that calls it home.

The Quiet Healing of Shibu Onsen

In Shibu Onsen, we stepped into another kind of sanctuary. The mineral-rich hot springs here aren’t flashy or commercialized; they are spaces of genuine restoration. Each onsen felt like an invitation—not just to bathe, but to be present, to honor a tradition handed down over generations.

There’s something deeply grounding about this simplicity. The rituals surrounding the baths are understated yet intentional, a balance between reverence for nature and appreciation for its gifts.

This feeling stayed with me long after I left. It’s the same sense of restoration I try to cultivate in my own daily rituals, and something I hope to share through my work with ReMI. If we allowed ourselves even one small moment each day for renewal, how much more connected, more alive might we feel?

What Nagano Left Behind

Nagano didn’t just leave me with memories of snowy trails and steamy hot springs. It gave me a shift in perspective. It reminded me to slow down, to appreciate what lasts, and to care—not just for the planet, but for the simple, sacred moments that make life feel whole.

This isn’t something you can pack into a suitcase. It’s a feeling, a practice, and maybe even a promise: to live a little more gently, a little more mindfully.

Minimalist Travel Tips: Simplify Your Journey

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