Slow travel: A ‘less is more’ approach to exploring

Slow travel is a way of traveling that encourages us to cultivate experiences rather than counting them

There’s a particular joy in discovery that comes when you allow yourself to slow down, step off the well-trodden path, and embrace a more deliberate way of experiencing the world. I’ve always been someone who rushed through travels, eager to tick off as many destinations as possible, to revel in the thrill of checking items off a never-ending to-do list. But as I’ve begun to challenge myself to embrace a slower pace, a yearning for more meaningful explorations has emerged.

This journey towards slow travel has revealed a philosophy centered around intention and mindfulness. It’s about savoring the moment rather than rushing through it, about engaging with local cultures, and about allowing spontaneity to lead the way. In short, it’s a way of traveling that encourages us to cultivate experiences rather than counting them.

READ: How to keep your pets safe this Halloween

Embracing the mindset of a slow traveler

Adopting this mindset has been a learning process. Initially, I struggled with the notion that less could indeed be more. The idea of missing out on a historic site, a TikTok-famous dessert spot, or “Osaka’s Best Takoyaki” didn’t appeal to me. In my mind, every new place was a checklist waiting to be completed. But I began to realize that this relentless pursuit often left me feeling overwhelmed and stressed. 

During a recent trip to Osaka, I consciously decided to break this pattern. I approached my travels with a fresh perspective, aiming to prioritize experiences over attractions. I wanted to focus on being fully present, appreciating the moments in between that shape the experience of travel.

With this newfound focus, I reflected on why I was drawn to slow travel. The promise of authentic experiences enticed me. I envisioned spending time in less touristy areas, being among more locals, and discovering hidden gems that often go unnoticed. I hoped this would enrich my understanding of the culture I was encountering.

READ: In Osaka, every bite is a revelation

Moreover, I craved a greater sense of personal well-being. In a world filled with distractions and demands, the thought of reduced travel stress was inviting. I wanted time to reflect and savor each moment with a mindful spirit. I wanted to remember as many moments from this trip. I imagined myself becoming more present, which, in turn, would result in a more profound travel experience altogether.

I also considered the impact of my travels on local economies. I wanted to contribute to small businesses—family-owned restaurants, artisan shops, and vintage stores—ensuring that my presence contributed positively to the places I visited.

Experiences to enjoy

Embracing the philosophy of slow travel reveals a world brimming with experiences that extend far beyond tourist spots and checklists. By taking my time, I discovered that the city was not just a collection of landmarks but a vibrant community with stories to learn from. I found that the essence of a destination lies in the moments shared there, the conversations exchanged, and the joys of being present in a place that feels alive.

Exploring hidden gems: On our first day, my family and I wandered the streets without a plan and discovered a small crepe shop called ‘Felice&PAUSE’ tucked between buildings. The woman, who was probably the owner, welcomed us warmly and looked so excited to see customers. If we had rushed to our next destination, we might have missed this memorable encounter to make a person’s day. It’s a small thing, sure, but I will never forget the smile on that woman’s face as we bit into the banana Nutella crepe cone she prepared for us. And yes, it was delicious. 

Savoring local flavors: Our culinary journey led us to local spots away from tourist crowds. One time, it stormed in Tennoji Ward so we ran to a little tonkatsu diner named ‘Matsunoya Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka’ for cover. We decided to try the restaurant out, and to our surprise, it was one of my favorite meals from the trip. The kitchen was open for people to see, so I enjoyed watching the chefs create our meals with much focus and intention. The rain, the open kitchen, and the smell of delicious katsu in the air made my eating experience all the more worthwhile.

Engaging with locals: Rather than keeping to myself, interacting with the locale brought Osaka to life in ways no guidebook could. I had the pleasure of conversing with a lady who sold my favorite Japanese dessert, coming to learn that she is happiest when she is selling her handmade strawberry daifuku. That interaction itself turned a supposed snack break into a heartwarming dialogue, no matter how long or short our chat was. These encounters added depth to the trip, turning everyday moments into meaningful connections. 

Admiring local fashion: Watching Osaka’s residents blend tradition with modern fashion was a visual treat. In Dohtonbori, I found a boutique called Chan Nu featuring vintage Japanese clothes with bold patterns and unique styles. I loved all the locals’ style so much that I took photos of them for inspiration. Observing their creativity through both kimonos and streetwear felt like collecting stories, preserving the city’s spirit through its fashion.

Taking time with my surroundings: Slowing down allowed me to notice details often overlooked—ancient temple patterns, blooming flowers, and sunlight filtering through leaves. My particular favorite was enjoying long walks so much that I began to notice the different manhole covers on the street. Everywhere we walked, we came across a manhole cover with a different design. Growing curious, I looked it up and apparently the Japanese started doing ‘cover art’ on these manholes almost 25 years ago. Even the most ordinary things can hold unexpected beauty when you take the time to truly notice them.

Depth over distance

The beauty of slow travel lies in the depth of our experiences rather than the distance covered. It invites us to cultivate a mindfulness that enriches our travels, allowing us to savor even the simplest moments with a presence of mind.

I remember sitting on a bench in a small square, sipping on matcha from a local cafe. I watched as people passed by, each lost in their world yet all part of the same little city. The sweet aroma of pastries occasionally wafted through the air, and the sound of laughter from a nearby group of friends filled my heart with warmth. I realized that the richness of travel lies not solely in the iconic sights but also in the subtleties—the colors of the flowers, the sounds of laughter, and the conversations that linger in the air.

Slow travel has allowed me to create more meaningful memories, each moment resonating with a deeper appreciation for the nuances of a place. I invite you to keep a travel journal during your adventures, sketch your surroundings, or photograph everyday moments in Osaka. This practice will not only help you capture the city’s spirit but also encourage reflection and mindfulness, allowing you to relive the experience long after the journey ends. 

If and when you prepare for a journey, might it be to Osaka or elsewhere, consider embracing the mindset of a slow traveler. Focus on depth, connection, and mindfulness. Stop and smell the flowers. Enter a store that intrigues you. Compliment a stranger. Allow yourself the time to wander, to explore, and to be fully present in every moment. Remember that the moments worth remembering might be right under your nose. So, take a breath, let go of the pressure to do it all, and come alive in places that are already brimming with life.