Hello, I’m Taro! Nice to meet you! 👋
(Taro is my handle name, not my real name.)
A Little About Me
I’m a Japanese native, born and raised in Ibaraki Prefecture, which is right next to Tokyo. 🇯🇵 While I call Ibaraki my hometown, I’ve also lived in several places across Japan, including Hokkaido, Chiba, Saitama, and Ehime. Each place has given me a unique perspective on Japan’s diverse culture, landscapes, and people.
I hold a master’s degree in physics from a national university. My research focused on a specific phenomenon in Earth’s magnetosphere, exploring whether it could be reproduced using a simulation model developed by the esteemed professor in my lab. Additionally, I analyzed whether the satellite data available at the time exhibited similarities to the data obtained from our numerical simulations.
I started my career in IT in Tokyo as a server engineer, where I built a strong foundation in system infrastructure and network management. While I enjoyed working in tech, I eventually transitioned into real estate marketing—a field that allows me to combine problem-solving with business strategy and creativity. My job occasionally takes me overseas, which aligns perfectly with my passion for travel.
My Travel Style & Favorite Destinations
I travel a lot—sometimes for work, sometimes for fun. My travel style is an interesting mix of a regular tourist, a backpacker, and a business traveler. As a result, I often get mistaken for an expat living abroad, especially when I stay in one place for an extended period.
I genuinely enjoy discovering local culture, food, and hidden gems, and I always try to blend in rather than stick to tourist hotspots. While I love every country I’ve visited, some of my absolute favorites include:
🇲🇾 Malaysia (especially Sabah – the nature and local vibe are incredible!)
🇮🇹 Italy (because, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love Italy?)
🇲🇽 Mexico (the food, the history, and the warmth of the people are unbeatable)
🌍 The Gulf countries (especially Oman & Bahrain – so much underrated beauty)
🇬🇷 Greece (history, beaches, and that Mediterranean charm!)
🇻🇳 Southern Vietnam (bustling cities, delicious food, and breathtaking landscapes)
🇹🇼 Taiwan (a perfect mix of tradition and modernity)
🇮🇩 Indonesia (so many islands, so much to explore!)
Of course, this list isn’t set in stone—I discover new places all the time, and my preferences might change. One place I haven’t visited yet but really want to is Malaysia’s East Coast, which I’ve heard has stunning beaches and rich cultural experiences.
Languages I Speak
• Japanese (native)
• English (I can handle everyday conversations and travel situations – my TOEIC score was 700 in university)
• Malay (I study it as a hobby and can manage basic conversations)
I love learning languages because they open doors to new experiences, cultures, and connections with people. Even if I’m not fluent, I always try to learn at least a few basic phrases in the local language of the country I visit. It makes travel more enjoyable and often leads to unexpected and meaningful interactions!
About This Website & Why I Write in English
Originally, I wanted to write everything in Japanese, but I chose to use English to reach a wider audience worldwide.
There aren’t many Japanese travelers who share their perspectives in English, and I feel like our stories, experiences, and insights deserve a place on the global stage. I want to offer a Japanese point of view on different destinations—what we find fascinating, surprising, or even challenging when traveling abroad.
This website is still brand new, so expect a lot of changes in design and content over time. It’s a work in progress! 😆 Please be patient with me as I fine-tune everything.
What Does “JPGo2” Mean?
The name JPGo2 reflects my vision of Japanese people traveling—both within Japan and around the world—and sharing interesting stories from a Japanese perspective. The “Go2” represents both travel (going to places) and the idea of guiding others to new experiences.
I hope this blog becomes a space where I can share my adventures, cultural discoveries, travel tips, and personal reflections, while also connecting with fellow travelers from all over the world.
Let’s Connect!
If you’re also passionate about travel, cultural exchange, or just curious about how a Japanese traveler sees the world, feel free to follow along! I’d love to hear your thoughts, recommendations, and travel experiences too. 🚀✨
Let’s explore the world together! 🌏✨