Japan has always been one of my most sought-after mood board vacation spots. I’ve long been captivated by the vibrant colors of traditional garments and the breathtaking landscapes that stretch across the island, known as the “Land of the Rising Sun.” This summer, I had the pleasure of exploring Japan during a creative retreat with ASafeSpace, whose mission is to create mental health equity within BIPOC communities and reduce inequalities by providing resources such as retreats, therapy, and recreational events.
When I was presented with this lifetime opportunity, I had just written down a plan to travel somewhere to break free from my creative block. I applied from a post on IG, and within a few days later, I was thrilled to find out I had been accepted to the retreat, which felt more like a residency. Within a month, I was on a Japan Airlines flight to Tokyo, ready for the adventure to begin.
Image Source: ASafeSpace
Our journey began in Tokyo and took us to Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara, where we had incredible experiences like boating through the Oigawa River, enjoying childlike adventures at Universal Studios, savoring the best ramen at
Image Source: CJ Hart
My favorite memory was hiking to the Iwatayama Monkey Park atop Mount Arashiyama in Kyoto in nearly 100-degree weather while I wore a plaid mini skirt and the crew pushed through the heat. While the monkeys weren’t exactly my favorite part, my friend and amazing artist Quiana Lewis and I went viral on TikTok for a hilarious Norbit impression, which turned into a running joke for the rest of the trip.
It’s safe to say that my time in Japan was the most amazing, inspirational, and love-filled experience with my new creative family. I spent a lot of time writing, meditating, and connecting with my core. Ahead, read about the items I packed that made the journey even more unforgettable.
