Ways I’ve Added Whimsy to My Life in Japan

It can be really overwhelming when you’re abroad—you're surrounded by so many things to see, to buy, to do, all the while trying to adjust and feel at home. During my time here, more than just being present, I like to also “add a little whimsy”—which can be simply adding something small and a little mundane, but can add a lot to your life that can help you enjoy your time abroad and hopefully make you feel more at home. Here are some of the ways I’ve added ~whimsy~ *shalala* to my life in Japan.

• Keychains/Plushies on your bag

Anywhere you go, whether it’s students or professors or office workers, you might see them have special keychains or plushies on their bags. A favorite Pokemon or merchandise of a cute character or even just a fun pin, can make your everyday school bag more like your own. It’s also a great conversation starter if you notice someone's bag decorations, or if they like yours!

They don’t have to be expensive either. Any capsule gacha store like GiGo or merchandise stores will sell these things for up to 300 or 500 yen. (Also, it’s way more fun than a plain backpack, in my opinion. Whimsy!)

• Soap that gives you a pattern every time you push the nozzle

I got this on my first trip to Donquijote, which is a store that quite literally has everything including essentials in Japan. My friends laughed at me a bit because I was intent on buying this soap dispenser that gives you a paw-print every time you push it. But let me tell you, every time I wash my hands, or come back to wash my hands after a long day, the paw-print can just elevate your day. Pump, look and admire your paw print, wash hands. They also have soaps that do a flower print.

• Daily essentials, customized

Following along those lines, any personal goods you find in Japan are easily customizable with cute patterns and iconic characters. Or, if that’s not your thing, they can be found in colors or styles that you might like. Things like your commuter pass holder, coin pouch, wallets, handkerchiefs, etc. can all be customized and have cute designs – and plus, you will probably need to buy these things anyway if you’re going to be in Japan for a while.

• Trying different snacks and desserts

This goes for any experience abroad, but any convenience or grocery store when you go abroad is bound to have a lot of different foods and brands you’ve never seen before. That, or they won’t have your favorite brands or foods. It’s a great way to force yourself to try different things from a different culture, and as someone who always loves a little treat, can be a great way to add some whimsy into your life when you know you’re trying something new or possibly a new favorite snack.

• A little piece of home

Instead of searching for new, whimsical things and buying things all the time, it’s also good to bring a piece of home with you abroad. It’s really easy to feel homesick, not only for family and friends from home but also from your original college—everyone is at least twice-removed homesick in that way. Any mug, blanket, photo, or small thing you can pack with you to make your new home feel like home can go a really long way.