We’re spending two days in Osaka before heading back into nature again. Coming off of the quiet and sometimes deserted island of Shikoku, these overnight stays in this metropolis make for a stark contrast to the ones we had in rural Japan. Having lived in cities all my life, I still very much enjoy the thrill of existing in a big place. I always feel like these metropolises hold such a strong sense of intimidation, while also causing this intriguing urge within me to explore all the nooks and crannies of what they have in store for me. I had a moment of reflection as I sat in the open air bath this evening, located on the 31st floor of my hotel. As I bathed all my sorrows away, I lurked into Osaka’s thriving city life. One that never sleeps. Between the high rise, I was able to spot the tiny objects that continued to travel far underneath me as I pondered what kind of life all these thousands – millions, even – of people in this great city are living. I find it truly fascinating and as much as I love the peace, quiet, and beauty of the countryside, I can’t shy away from the fact that I do still truly get mesmerised by visiting places such as Osaka.