Today, my wife and I visited the rather remote Takadaru Falls in Gifu Prefecture, a hidden gem mostly frequented by locals.

However, our journey held a delightful surprise as we stopped by Tsukechi Gorge after visiting Takadaru Falls. At a scenic, unassuming restaurant simply labeled “a place to eat,” we were treated to fantastic, freshly handmade soba – a true culinary delight.

What made this experience even more remarkable was the discovery of photographs showcasing visits by famous Japanese personalities. Among them, I was particularly thrilled to recognize the youthful face of one of my all-time favorite martial arts movie stars, Jackie Chan. It was a surreal feeling to realize that I had dined in the same humble establishment that he had once graced with his presence, many years ago.

#CulinarySurprises #TravelAdventures

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This blog is for thoughtful adults who are starting again โ€” in learning, creativity, or life โ€” and want to grow steadily without noise or pressure.

Here youโ€™ll find daily reflections and practical guides shaped by lived experience. The focus is on learning through doing: building consistency, adapting to change, and finding clarity in everyday practice.

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If youโ€™re curious about life in Japan, learning new skills at your own pace, or finding a calmer, more intentional way forward, youโ€™re in the right place.

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