Jessica A Paje

@jessica.paje

Originally from San Diego, California, I lived in Yokosuka, Japan, for 5 years. In 2010, I arrived with a new outlook on my future. Mainly, to refocus on family and let my curiosities take us to places we’ve only dreamt of. Along the way, we’d hopefully develop new friendships and simply collect memories to last a lifetime.

Then, there was the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami on March 11, 2011. I will never forget that experience and the devastating effects it had on the entire country. I asked the community, “What can I do to help?” Collecting, sorting, and packing donations, was the least I could do. I also went to California for 1 month, raised a monetary donation for Red Cross, and secured phone interviews to help spread the word on how others from the USA could assist. I was determined to show my family, friends, and folks across the world that it would be okay to return to Japan. I wanted them to know that the little things that make up this beautiful country still existed.

What better way than to use a platform such as Japan Travel to share photos and stories full of life, history, and culture. It is a pleasure to say I have contributed more than 150 articles to a database that now collectively holds more than 15,000! This journey has not only allowed me to realize my initial goals, but I’d like to think that it has somehow played a role in sparking an interest locally and across the globe for others to experience all that is published here and more.

I invite you to also share your wonderful stories, offer comments, and ask questions right here. Feel free to contact me at jessica.paje@japantravel.com.

Safe travels! ٩( ๑╹ ꇴ╹)۶

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Sakura Tulip Festa in Chiba 2026

Early - Late Apr

In Chiba, Sakura City Municipal Organization Enforcement hosts the Sakura Tulip Festa in the month of April. A field of endless..

Chiba 118 12 Free Entry

Culture

Hachiko Statue University of Tokyo

The second Hachiko statue in Tokyo was unveiled March 2015 and depicts the reunion of the loyal Akita Inu and his master Profe..

Tokyo 258 9

Activities

Mobara Cherry Blossom Festival 2026

Mid Mar - Mid Apr

The Cherry Blossom Festival at Mobara Park in Chiba City is conducted annually from April 1st to 15th and is among the Top 100 places..

Chiba 19 8 Free Entry

Culture

1,000 Samurai Procession in Nikko 2025

Sunday - May 18th

Designated as a World Heritage site since 1999, thousands of locals gather at Toshogu Shrine to parade in Nikko’s traditional ..

Tochigi 31 5

Culture

Hello Kitty Sanrio Puroland Tokyo

Hello Kitty theme park, Sanrio Puroland, is located in Tama City, Tokyo. An indoor amusement park that is a sure hit among you..

Tokyo 24 4

Culture

Kimono Photo Studio Wa in Tokyo

Kimono Photo Studio 和(wa) in Tokyo offers dressing up in a luxurious kimono and photo shoot. Choose from various packages for..

Tokyo

Culture

Rice Planting at Watashi-No-Inaka

Experience rice planting at "Watashi-No-Inaka" Yato Workshop located in Yato Country Hills of Wakaba Ward, Chiba City.

Chiba 2 5

The Vibe Bar Wild One in Shibuya

The Vibe Bar Wild One located in Shibuya, Tokyo, and is a risqué bar designed specifically for women and couples to enjoy. Whe..

Tokyo 21 2

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Jessica's Japan

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Your Name is the highest grossing animated film toppling Spirited Away down the throne. Makoto Shinkai's tale of star-crossed..

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A look at the surprising history of the Japanese Tea Ceremony. We will also explore some of the more off the beaten path places..

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