From Réunion to Japan: The Journey That Changed Everything

At 18, I left my island home of Réunion with a one-way ticket and a dream: to explore Japan. I had no idea that what started as a simple gap year would completely reshape my life, values, and career.

Here’s how Japan became my second home and how I’m now helping others experience its magic through travel guides, tips, and stories.

🏝️ Growing Up in Réunion: The Spark of Wanderlust

Born and raised on Réunion Island, I was surrounded by cultural diversity and natural beauty. But I always felt drawn to something further something unknown.

Japan captured my imagination with its mix of tradition and innovation, quiet temples and neon cities, deep values and surprising simplicity.

✈️ At 18: Leaving Everything Behind for Japan

I made a bold choice: to spend a year in Japan.
I didn’t speak the language fluently. I didn’t know anyone there.
But something told me this was where I needed to be.

That year changed everything.

Living in Japan: The Real Turning Point

Living in Kyoto, I didn’t just learn Japanese—I learned about myself.
Here’s what Japan taught me:

• Independence — From getting lost in train stations to making new friends in a new language.

• Resilience — Facing challenges far from home gave me strength I didn’t know I had.

• Simplicity — Japan’s way of slowing down and finding joy in little things became part of me.

Paris: A New Chapter, A Bigger Question

After that unforgettable year, I couldn’t stay in Japan long-term.
So I moved to Paris, started university, and began another journey this time, internal.

I traveled across Europe. I studied. I built skills.
But I also realized one thing: the traditional path wasn’t for me.
The 9-to-5 life didn’t match the freedom I’d tasted.

💡 From Passion to Purpose

I didn’t want to just dream about Japan I wanted to share it.

So I started creating guides, planning trips for friends, and answering messages from other travelers.
Slowly, Tabimawari was born:

A space to share practical, soulful travel tools for discovering Japan your way.

🌋 Back to Réunion: Coming Full Circle

Now back on my island, I’ve turned experience into action:

• ✍️ Guides to help you explore Japan without overwhelm

• 📍 Maps and itineraries that save you time and show you hidden gems

• 🎥 Stories that inspire you to travel deeper, not just wider

Let’s Explore Japan Together

If Japan is on your bucket list or already in your heart I’m here to guide you.

Follow me for tips, maps, and honest advice to make your trip smooth, exciting, and deeply personal.

Because travel isn’t about ticking boxes.
It’s about finding the places that feel like you.