Japanophiles, this one’s for you!

Text & photos /Dextalk – Chopping Wood and Feeding Horses, Traveling the World

Everyone knows how much Hong Kongers love Japan—even aliens have caught on. Many of my friends travel to Japan all year round. It’s no wonder—Japan is just that captivating. Are you addicted to Japan too? As the year draws to a close, count how many times you’ve visited Japan this year. If you have the following traits, then you might just be hooked on Japan:

1. You know Japan inside out?

When is the best time to go to Japan? If you can effortlessly answer this question, and even plan your trip down to the perfect season, then it’s clear you’re always thinking about Japan. If preparing for a trip to Japan has become second nature, then you’re probably addicted.

2. You obsessively collect points on credit cards

Nowadays, banks are constantly launching new reward cards, and competition is fierce, making it easier than ever to redeem travel rewards. If you use your card for every purchase just to rack up points, and as soon as you’ve saved enough, you cash them in for a flight to Japan, then how can you deny being addicted to Japan?

3. Cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, beaches, and skiing—all in Japan

Sometimes people ask why you keep going back to Japan, and it’s all because of its diverse landscapes. Japan offers something to see in every season, meaning it’s a great destination year-round. In spring, you can admire cherry blossoms; in summer, you can go to the beach or dive in the sea; in autumn, you can enjoy the red leaves; and in winter, there’s snow and skiing. It seems like your entire yearly travel itinerary can be planned around Japan.

4. You only read Japanese magazines and travel shows

Aside from Japanese travel guidebooks, you only read magazines about Japan, and you only watch travel shows about Japan. Just how much do you love Japan? Whenever Japan comes up, your eyes light up, and you’re already planning your next trip right after getting back.

5. Your Facebook “Likes” are all Japan-related

These days, getting a “Like” is harder than ever, especially in Hong Kong. Many people feel like liking something is the same as paying for it, so they often just browse without liking. But when it comes to anything Japan-related, you’ll “Like” it instantly—even without reading it.

6. You save just to splurge in Japan

You scrimp and save all year just to buy more flights to Japan. But once you’re there, you let loose and go on a wild shopping spree, as if you’re making up for all the things you couldn’t buy before.

7. You’re practically Japanese

You know everything about Japan—you could pass as half-Japanese. You’re a bona fide Japan travel expert, even more reliable than any guidebook. If someone you know wants to go to Japan, you can provide insider tips and guidance.

8. You only look at flights to Japan

With fierce competition among airlines, flying to Japan has become more affordable than ever. Whenever an airline announces the slightest change, you immediately check for deals on flights to Japan.

Japan is indeed a great destination all year round, and many Hong Kongers fly there whenever they can. Even frequent travelers should remember to respect the local culture.

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