Maria Zhekova: The Little Wonders of Great Japan

We expected a few spontaneous impressions, but instead, she drew us into such a vivid and picturesque story that while we listened, we were already searching for flight tickets for the next season.

Japan is a place that touches every sensory receptor – from the aroma of essential oils in Tokyo to the flavours that seem to tell stories. The food there isn't just a meal – it's like a ritual. Each bite carries meaning, highlights the seasons, and respects nature. From perfectly shaped sushi pieces that melt in your mouth to desserts that look like miniature sculptures – every dish shows you that eating is more than just satisfying an appetite. Here are some of the things Maria shared. 

If you had to describe Japan to someone who has never been there, how would you do it?

"Lately, I describe it as two completely different worlds in one and talk about the great contrast between the big cities and young people, and the small villages and the older population we met. The cities and the young are quite vibrant – a world of the future, while the villages and older people are quiet, pastel, gentle, and soothing."

What was the first thing that surprised you in Japan when you arrived? 

"The first thing that surprised me was the air cleanliness in Tokyo. No one could make me believe that in such a vast city, there could be such clean city air. You breathe and breathe, and it’s fresh. Even the scents of essential oils seem to waft through the fine curtains fluttering in front of every establishment, home, or public space.

Of course, Martin quickly explained to us that this is due to sensible urban policies. In Tokyo, you can't have a car unless you have a specifically designated parking space, to park that car without obstructing traffic, citizens, and infrastructure, which leads to significantly fewer cars, most of them electric. Then I thought that maybe this is something that Europe should adopt. In Bulgaria, we observe chaotic parking in residential areas. Several cars per family, but not a single garage."

Japanese culture is unique – what was something that impressed you most in the everyday life of the locals?

"As someone who pays great attention to the food and culinary culture of the places I visit – I was extremely impressed by the food intended for a work lunch or lunch on the train/metro/on the go. You find it at stations, mainly in small shops that truly have everything.

At home, we're accustomed to such meals often being quick and sometimes careless – without detail, without aesthetics. The idea is to satiate you and continue on your way. Nothing like that in Japan – beautifully arranged boxes of sushi and other typical small bites, exquisitely wrapped sandwiches with tempting fillings that shine with freshness, salads and sweets of all kinds. Entire displays with hot drinks – tea, water, coffee. In a shop where at home you could buy at most a wafer. It was impressive and speaks of self-respect."

What is one thing you learned about yourself after immersing in the world of Japan?

"That going on an organized tour with the right guide and group is the best decision I have ever made. Ha! Actually, I realized and saw how two worlds can coexist without interfering with each other. The world of neon, skyscrapers, electronics, and the smell of fried takoyaki can exist alongside Japanese maple, kimonos, tea ceremonies, and the soothing scent of incense from a nearby temple.

And that in the same balance, different worlds, colors, and feelings can coexist within ourselves, and it's right to embrace all our manifestations. Perhaps then we might become as perfectly paradoxical and impressive as Japan."

One Country – Two Hearts

Japan is not just a destination – it's a journey to yourself. With its contrasts, harmony, and deep reverence for the seasons, it teaches you to see beauty in every detail. For me, it was a lesson in balance but also an inspiration – that the world can be both noisy and calming, bold and gentle.

This is Japan – a place that changes not only the way you see the world but what you see within yourself.

With Maria's words in our minds and the inspiration they ignited, we're already preparing for Japan 2025 – because we believe that such a vividly described world should be experienced by many more people.

Photos: Simeon Georgiev