Song description
Hello! This song is all about the surprises and excitement someone feels when visiting Japan for the first time. I wrote it with the idea of capturing that sense of wonder and appreciation for Japanese hospitality, or “omotenashi.”
The opening line, “Landing for the first time at Narita Airport,” already carries a sense of excitement and anticipation. The warm sound of “Irasshaimase” (Welcome!) fills the air, creating a welcoming mood that is so unique to Japan. The automatic taxi door and the driver’s white gloves are small details that feel so fresh and fascinating to someone visiting from abroad.
The line “Matcha welcomes me in the hotel room” reflects the subtle thoughtfulness of Japanese hospitality. Seeing a perfectly prepared futon laid out can instantly make someone feel at ease and cared for. These simple moments leave a lasting impression and create that “Wow, this is amazing” feeling.
The chorus, “Welcome to Japan, my journey begins,” is really the heart of the song. The idea that kindness and hospitality can be felt even without tipping is something that resonates deeply. It feels like the pride of Japan is reflected in the way every small action is filled with care and sincerity.
Moments like “being offered a towel at a restaurant” or “learning that cold water is free” might seem ordinary for those living in Japan, but for visitors, these small acts of kindness can be surprising and delightful. I wanted to highlight those little moments because they often become the memories that stick with people the most.
The line “witnessing the 7-minute miracle at the station platform” refers to the quick and efficient way Shinkansen trains are cleaned. For visitors, this kind of precision and dedication is simply unbelievable.
Overall, this song is a warm reflection of the beauty of Japanese “omotenashi.” I hope it makes listeners feel a sense of pride in Japan or sparks a desire to visit for those who haven’t been yet. It’s a gentle journey filled with small miracles, and I hope it leaves people feeling grateful and inspired.
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Lyrics
Landing for the first time at Narita Airport,
A warm “Irasshaimase” echoes all around.
The taxi door opens automatically,
And I’m amazed by the driver in white gloves.
In the hotel room, matcha welcomes me,
The neatly laid futon takes my breath away.
Such attention to detail, unseen in my homeland,
Makes every moment of this trip so special.
Welcome to Japan, my journey begins,
A new kind of hospitality I’ve never known.
Even without tipping, kindness reaches my heart,
This is the pride of Japan,
Warming my soul completely.
A towel offered at the restaurant table,
I’m surprised to learn the cold water is free.
The careful packing at the convenience store,
A simple “thank you” brings a smile to my face.
On the station platform, I witness the 7-minute miracle,
Trains running precisely on schedule.
A level of discipline unimaginable back home,
Every detail resonates deeply in my heart.
Thank you, Japan, for countless surprises,
Every moment filled with love and care.
Thoughtfulness crafted for ultimate comfort,
This is Japanese hospitality,
A journey I’ll never forget.
Storefronts adorned with lifelike food samples,
The toilet’s bidet speaks of ultimate ease.
Every small moment is filled with wonder,
This is my story of Japan.
Welcome to Japan, I want to return again,
This country has shown me such warmth.
Small miracles weave a grand sense of awe,
This is Japanese hospitality,
A journey that will forever remain in my heart.