Citizen Watch Company's Japan Journey: A Cultural and Horological Exploration

Tokyo: A City of Contrasts and Culture

Our journey with Citizen Watch Company began and ended in the vibrant metropolis of Tokyo, a city that seamlessly blends the ultramodern with the deeply traditional. The timing of the trip was impeccable, coinciding with the fleeting beauty of cherry blossom season. This ephemeral spectacle, where blossoms bloom in a burst of color only to fall within a week, serves as a poignant reminder of the transient nature of time—a concept that resonates deeply within Japanese culture and, by extension, its watchmaking.

Shinjuku Gyoen Garden: A Blossom Haven

Our first stop was the sprawling Shinjuku Gyoen Garden, a lush oasis just a short train ride from the city's core. Spanning nearly 150 acres, this garden is a harmonious blend of traditional Japanese, English, and French landscaping styles. With over 900 cherry blossom trees, it offered an idyllic setting for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic beneath the blooming canopy. The garden's serene atmosphere provided a perfect introduction to Japan's reverence for nature.

Meiji Shrine: A Spiritual Retreat

Another highlight was the Meiji Shrine in Shibuya, a Shinto sanctuary dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Entering through towering 12-meter-tall torii gates crafted from 1,500-year-old cypress wood, we walked along a path lined with over 100,000 trees, a tranquil escape from the urban bustle. The stacks of sake casks and the quiet devotion of visitors underscored the enduring spiritual traditions of Japan.

Tokyo's Unrivaled Public Transport

Navigating Tokyo was a breeze thanks to its world-class public transportation system. The trains are punctual, stations are immaculately clean, and signage is intuitive, guiding you to the exact car for the most efficient exit. Whether you're a seasoned commuter or a first-time visitor, Tokyo's transit system sets a global standard.

A Culinary Detour: 7-Eleven

No visit to Japan would be complete without experiencing its convenience store culture, and 7-Eleven here is a gastronomic revelation. Far from the processed snacks found elsewhere, Japanese 7-Elevens offer a treasure trove of delicious and affordable options. My daily indulgences included the iconic egg salad sandwich on milk bread, a strawberry crueller, and perfectly seasoned onigiri rice balls. It's a must-try for any traveler.

Beyond Tokyo: Rural Immersion and Timeless Crafts

Citizen also arranged for us to venture into the countryside via the famous bullet train, where we encountered a different side of Japan, steeped in history and spirituality.

The Art of Kintsugi

Our first rural experience was a workshop in Kintsugi, the traditional art of repairing broken pottery with lacquer mixed with gold. Guided by the skilled artisans Yoshiko and Yoshiichiro Kuge of Kuge Crafts, we learned to piece together fragments of Edo-period pottery, transforming flaws into features. The process was meditative, and the philosophy—embracing imperfection and repair—offered a profound metaphor for resilience and beauty.

A Silent Pilgrimage with a Yamabushi Monk

We then participated in a silent walk led by a Yamabushi monk along the sacred pilgrimage trails of Mount Kosuge, one of Nagano's three holiest sites for shugendo. Clad in traditional white garments, we chanted softly as we traversed ancient cedar forests, passing stone statues and culminating at a water source that sustains the region's rice fields. Despite the cold rain, the experience was deeply moving, fostering a connection to nature and the elements.

Sake Tasting in Iiyama

The day concluded with a lively sake tasting featuring brews from local Iiyama breweries, Tanakaya Brewing Company and Kadoguchi Sake Brewery. These sakes, crafted from pure spring water from Nozawa Onsen and premium local rice, were a revelation. Having never found a sake I enjoyed before, I was pleasantly surprised by the nuanced flavors and the cultural significance of this rice-based beverage, which is intertwined with celebrations of harvest and fortune.

Souvenirs and Local Encounters

In my free time, I hunted for unique mementos, picking up tea from Saboe, a fan from Miyawaki Baisen-an, and chopsticks from Ginza Natsuno. A visit to the iconic Itoya stationery store was a dream for any writer, and I couldn't resist the TikTok-famous Nivea lip tints at a local pharmacy. I also splurged on distinctive fashion pieces from Kapital and had the pleasure of meeting members of the Tokyo Watch Club, engaging in lively discussions about horology and the unique aspects of Japan's watch community.

This journey with Citizen Watch Company was more than a press trip; it was a profound cultural immersion that deepened my appreciation for the natural and artistic inspirations behind Japanese watchmaking. From the transient cherry blossoms to the enduring craft of kintsugi, every experience echoed the values of mindfulness and reverence for time. I left Japan with a sense of having only scratched the surface, already dreaming of a return visit.