— Written primarily based on inputs from Sheena Raina Raniga, COO, One Rep Global, Japan.

In an increasingly interconnected world where cultures blend, and borders blur, exist pockets of authenticity that continue to captivate and intrigue. To truly appreciate Japan, one must shed preconceptions, embrace the unfamiliar, and adopt an experiential mindset. From the bustling metropolis of Tokyo to the serene landscapes of Kyoto, Japan is best discovered by immersing oneself in its customs, conversing with its people, and savouring the nuanced beauty woven into every facet of daily life.

In an exclusive conversation with Sheena Raina Raniga, the COO at One Rep Global, we unravel the secrets of Japanese culture in ways that are yet to be explored. Beyond the well-trodden paths of tourist destinations, she delved deep into the heart of what it truly means to be in Japan – to immerse yourself in the rhythm of a culture that celebrates precision, respect, and harmonious coexistence with its people and surroundings. As travellers, we must often embark on journeys to not only seek sights but also experiences that challenge our perspectives and broaden our understanding.

The Journey of Embracing the Unfamiliar

Sheena reminisces, “My journey from Amsterdam to Japan was a leap of faith. My husband, who works for Four Seasons received a transfer to Japan around the time when the country was abuzz with excitement due to the upcoming Olympics. It was a thrilling opportunity, and we decided to seize it. Japan, a country renowned for seamlessly intertwining tradition and modernity, was an entirely new experience for me. I had no prior exposure to the country, so I embarked on this adventure with no preconceived notions. 

Our first destination was Kyoto, often hailed as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. However, upon arrival, I found myself in an unfamiliar place, far from friends, family, and acquaintances. This was a time just before the Rugby World Cup, and the city was in the midst of opening new international hotels and developing it further as a key tourist hotspot. Despite the initial challenges and solitude, my time in Kyoto allowed me to discover the true essence of Japan and its harmonious blend of old and new. Little did I know, that this solitude would sprout what today is my passion, my labour of love – One Rep Global.”

Journey of Self-discovery through Isolation

However, amidst Kyoto’s cultural and historical milieu, Sheena uncovered the beauty of self-reflection and the incredible potential for personal growth. Japan's unique blend of tradition and modernity provided her with the perfect backdrop for this transformative chapter of her life. She takes us on her journey of so many meaningful and challenging experiences which she holds so close to her heart.

Sheena adds, “During those days, it felt like no one around me spoke English, and I had few friends to lean on. I spent most of my time in seclusion, reflecting on life. Japan, a country at the forefront of technological advancement, paradoxically transported me back in time, metaphorically speaking.”

The Cultural Dichotomy of Japan

The beauty of Japan is that here the culture is multifaceted and omnipresent. During Sheena’s time in this enchanting country, she stumbled upon an intriguing phenomenon. Sheena shares, “As I would approach restaurants, I often noticed staff proclaiming, 'We're full with their arms marking an X,' even when there seemed to be available seating inside. Curiosity would lead me to peek inside, only to discover empty chairs awaiting diners. I soon grasped the reason behind this apparent contradiction – the restaurant staff's limited English proficiency and the absence of English menus. Since they couldn't guarantee a flawless dining experience with their limited language skills, they chose to turn potential business away.”

This glimpse into the depths of Japanese perfectionism, even at the grassroots level, left me utterly fascinated. It's a testament to their commitment to excellence, a trait that is deeply ingrained in every aspect of their lives. She adds, “As my first year of solitude drew to an end, a subtle transformation unfolded around me - I began to feel those around me warming up to me. I slowly felt accepted. Perhaps, I had become less judgmental, and in turn, those around me had lowered their defences.”

A Gradual Sense of Belonging 

No matter where you go, whether as a tourist or for work, you have to give yourself the time to warm up to the people, their ways of living and their rules. We are in their space and not the other way around. Sheena explains, “As I delved deeper into the Japanese way of life and the psyche of the locals, a profound sense of belonging washed over me. The more I discovered, the more I yearned to prolong my stay. Japan had cast its enchanting spell, and I found myself captivated by its culture and the warmth of its people.”

Japan's remarkable characteristic lies in its societal behaviours, where everything is orchestrated for the greater good. It operates on a generalist rule, and its societal structure is clear-cut and devoid of ambiguity. From a societal perspective, there's no necessity to think outside the box, bend rules, or find ways to circumvent them.

Embracing Diversity and Challenging Conformity

When Sheena moved to the vibrant city of Tokyo to take upon the role of Global Director of Sales at the Palace Hotel, she felt truly honoured to be the first expatriate, especially a woman, to receive a position of this stature. While she was welcomed with a warm heart and open arms, and everything was perfect, she realised something oddly positive. 

Sheena adds, “Internally, I quickly realized that conformity was the norm. Thinking outside the box or embracing creativity was not the expectation, which struck me as unusual. Social norms were not meant to be questioned or tweaked; they were meant to be adhered to. For instance, taking leaves was often frowned upon, a practice I found rather perplexing. The pressure to perform without respite seemed undue, as I occasionally sought moments to unwind and return to work rejuvenated.”

Admirable Japanese Values and Ethics 

Amid these cultural nuances, Sheena discovered a profound appreciation for the values and ethics that bind Japanese society. She adds, “One aspect of their culture that I deeply admire is the principle that money cannot simply buy influence. Ethics, values, and morality are intrinsic to their collective conscience. Despite Japan's technological prowess and advanced systems, they remain rooted in their cultural traditions, which serve as a unifying force. Their commitment to simplicity, coupled with their pursuit of excellence, has transformed one of the world's smallest countries into one of its economic powerhouses.”

Japan Beyond Shopping and Sushi

Sheena beautifully explains, “One of the most captivating aspects of Japanese culture, I've discovered, is their profound embrace of simplicity. Here, you can't simply bend things to your will; instead, you learn to appreciate the wisdom behind their ways. The concept of personalization takes a backseat, and a sense of individuality often fades into the background. In Japan, it's all about fairness and equality. There's no room for special treatment, and everyone is treated with the same level of respect and consideration. It's a world where simplicity reigns supreme, and I've found it to be a truly remarkable and enlightening experience.”

A destination renowned for shopping and its unique cuisine, Japan holds treasures beyond the obvious. It's a land where art and culture flourish in every corner. Sheena’s journey led her to explore diverse experiences – from pottery classes to ancient sake breweries run by 16th-generation artisans, giving her experiences to cherish forever.

Sheena adds, “The art of sake, meticulously passed down through generations, is a testament to Japan's dedication to its craft. Whether it's the mastery of knives, the artistry of kimonos, or the precision in every detail including how they gift wrap everything so elegantly, I found it all remarkably beautiful. Japanese people, as a rule, excel at what they do, delivering top-notch quality. They never settle for second best, and you'll find excellence in every aspect of life.”

The Heartwarming Japanese Hospitality

It is widely known that Japanese hospitality transcends mere service; it's a testament to a profound commitment. Sheena expresses, “Whether you find yourself in a cosy boutique, an opulent luxury hotel, or the traditional charm of a ryokan, you'll experience an unwavering dedication to ensuring your stay is nothing short of exceptional. It's not just about the warm welcome; it's a reflection of their unwavering pride in preserving their identity, culture, and time-honoured traditions. As a traveller, you'll be charmed by these gestures of respect and care, from the graceful bows that greet you, the serene hush on trains, to the disciplined queues that effortlessly form. Japan's hospitality is a cultural gem deserving of our utmost admiration and respect, and one can't help but salute the Japanese people wholeheartedly for it.”

To wrap it up, Sheena’s time in Japan has been nothing short of extraordinary. From moments of solitude to finding a path to self-discovery, her experience has been all sorts of inspiring. It would’ve not been possible for us to discover the diverse facets of Japan to truly relish the destination in all its glory. Through her journey, we hope you are able to instil deep admiration and profound respect for a society that values tradition, simplicity, and egalitarianism; we surely have.

When it’s time for you to embark on your own voyage of exploration into Japan's cultural wonders, we’ll be right here planning that trip for you, just the way you want it. Contact us to get a curated itinerary for Japan.