Meet Nele, a passionate Dutch traveler and founder of The Navigatio. With a deep love for Japan cultivated since childhood, Nele now explores and writes about its rich culture and sights. Tokyo holds a special place in Nele’s heart, with favorite spots like Onibus Coffee and Shibuya Sky. Embracing the beauty of Japan, Nele’s dream is to expand her website and inspire more travelers to experience its wonders. So, fellow adventurers, heed Nele’s joyful message: Dive into Japan’s magic and let it whisk you away on unforgettable journeys!
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Interview – Story in Japan
- WHERE ARE YOU FROM?
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Netherlands
- WHAT DO YOU DO IN JAPAN?
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I travel to Japan frequently to write travel articles about the best Japan has got to offer for my website, The Navigatio.
- WHY ARE YOU INTERESTED IN JAPAN?
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I’ve had an interest in Japan and its culture since I was a kid. When I finally got to visit for the first time, right after graduating from university, it exceeded all my expectations. It’s such a unique place with so much history and sights to enjoy. Writing about Japan has made me even more interested in the culture, it’s a never-ending learning process, but I’m thoroughly enjoying it. I keep coming back to learn and explore more.
- WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO STAY IN THIS CITY?
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I’ve travelled around Japan quite a bit, but Tokyo has to be my favourite. Next year, I’ll be staying in Tokyo for a full month, and I can’t wait. There is so much to see in the city, but also nearby – Hakone is one of my favourite places to visit near the capital.
- WHERE IS YOUR LOCAL RECOMMENDATION IN THIS CITY?
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Onibus Coffee is one of my favourite coffee spots in Tokyo! I got to visit Shibuya Sky on my most recent trip too, which was incredible. I got super lucky because the weather was very clear and Mount Fuji was visible. Plus, I love going to Ikebukero to play in the arcades – even though I enjoy shopping for retro games in Akihabara, I much prefer Ikebukero.
- WHAT DID YOU ENJOY THE MOST WHILE STAYING ABROAD?
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Japan is so different from other places I’ve lived – I love going for a stroll around to see little shrines hidden in busy districts. Or going to a conbini for a quick lunch. It’s great to learn more about the history and the culture in Japan, but I thoroughly enjoy the smaller things too.
- DID YOU EXPERIENCE ANY CHANGE IN YOUR LIFE AND FUTURE PROSPECTS AFTER YOU START YOUR JOURNEY?
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It definitely changed a lot for me in my career. While at first, I simply wanted to visit Japan once before starting my career, it somehow turned into a part of my career. After my first visit, I started writing about travelling to Japan and that hobby has now turned into a full-time business. I’m very fortunate that I get to work on my travel blog so much, and that it allows me to come back to Japan so often.
- WHAT IS YOUR DREAM?
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I’d love to continue growing my website and share even more about the best places to visit in Japan. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to visit Japan this often and I am very excited to grow my business to help more people plan their dream trip!
- MESSAGE TO OUR FRIENDS WHO WILL GO TO JAPAN.
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Book that flight! Visiting Japan was a dream come true for me, and it definitely left me wanting to explore more – be prepared to book your second trip as soon as you get home from your first one.
- HOW DO YOU LEARN JAPANESE?
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I’m currently taking weekly online classes. It’s a great way to stay motivated during the week to study every day, and the classes are a great way to practice my speaking skills with the other students.
Recommendation
The Navigatio
Nele’s Website
Onibus Coffee
Onibus Coffee is a specialty coffee shop and roastery based in Tokyo, Japan, known for its dedication to quality and craftsmanship in the coffee it serves. Founded by Atsushi Sakao in 2011, Onibus connects people through its exceptional coffee, sourced from top coffee producing regions around the world. The name “Onibus” translates to “bus” in Portuguese, symbolizing the connection between people and places through coffee. The shop has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, offering a range of meticulously brewed coffees and a selection of baked goods. Onibus Coffee has gained a reputation not only for its premium, carefully roasted beans but also for its contribution to the growing specialty coffee culture in Tokyo. With multiple locations, including a flagship store in Nakameguro, Onibus Coffee attracts both coffee aficionados and casual visitors looking to enjoy a high-quality cup in a relaxed setting.
Shibuya Sky
Shibuya Sky is a spectacular observation deck located atop the Shibuya Scramble Square building, standing as one of Tokyo’s most impressive urban vantage points. Opened in November 2019, this modern marvel offers panoramic, 360-degree views of the bustling cityscape, including iconic landmarks such as the Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo Tower, and on clear days, Mount Fuji. Spanning three floors, it features an open-air sky deck that allows visitors to feel the breeze and take in the vastness of the city from 229 meters above ground. Shibuya Sky not only provides breathtaking views but also serves as a cutting-edge cultural space, hosting various events and exhibitions. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the dynamic heart of Tokyo from an extraordinary perspective.
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