By Katelyn, TIWP Student

In Japanese, the word for harmony is “wa,” a belief that is emphasized throughout Tokyo and reaches into Kyoto and across Japan. Experiencing this “wa” offered a refreshing contrast to the chaotic pace of life in America to me. The metro over there was filled with peaceful silence, where the only sounds were announcements and the train’s gentle glide on the tracks. 

Even with nearly a million people, Tokyo maintains an atmosphere of tranquility. Citizens move in every direction, creating a sense of solitude within the crowd. Their politeness reflects a shared understanding of harmony, yet underneath this calm existence lies a quiet defiance. I’ve noticed that each individual carries their own narrative, subtly resisting conformity even when facing societal expectations. In this balance, tranquility meets the desire for personal expression, revealing the complexity of Japanese culture.