Back to Japan after 3 years

Private

Oct 18

Written By Tateki Matsuda

Coupon Code TATEKI

Summary & Key Takeaways

After three years away, I went back to Japan—starting with a 14-day quarantine in Hakone with my family.
I biohacked the jet lag: morning light therapy, breathwork, and meal timing set to the new time zone.
Highlights: my younger brother's wedding, a Tokyo date with my wife, and a tea ceremony.
Work side: launching the Self Hack corporate wellness program in Tokyo and recording a podcast with Redbox Japan.

Back to the Roots: A Journey to Japan After 3 Years

I finally made it back to Japan. Three years since my last visit—long overdue. I wanted to reconnect with my roots, my family, and my culture, and this trip delivered on all three.

Quarantine in Hakone

Under the Japanese government's regulations, I did a 14-day quarantine on arrival. Who's complaining when you get to spend it in Hakone with your family? Tucked into the mountains, Hakone is quiet and beautiful. The setting made it easy to reflect, relax, and slow down enough to appreciate the simple things.

Biohacking Jet Lag

Jet lag hurts when you cross that many time zones. With the right tools, it's manageable. I used light therapy to reset my internal clock—bright light in the morning to suppress melatonin and wake the body up on the new schedule.

Breathwork was the second tool. Controlled, rhythmic breathing calms the nervous system, cuts stress, and improves sleep quality.

And I timed my meals to the new time zone. Eating on the local schedule helps reset the body clock. It worked like a charm.

Celebrating Love

One of the highlights was my younger brother's wedding—love, laughter, and plenty of sake. The ceremony mixed tradition and modernity in a way that fit the couple perfectly. Watching him start this new chapter surrounded by friends and family got me right in the chest.

Date Day in Tokyo

I also took my wife on a date in Tokyo. We walked the city, ate great sushi, and enjoyed the nightlife. Tokyo never sleeps, and every corner has something new. High-tech skyscrapers next to old temples—the city blends old and new like nowhere else. A day full of love and adventure.

Reconnecting with Culture

During the stay I attended a tea ceremony. The ritual—preparing and presenting matcha with full attention—was humbling. Relearning my own culture, and the art, tradition, and discipline inside one simple ceremony, reminded me what mindfulness and presence actually mean.

Kickstarting “Self Hack”

One of my main goals for this trip was kicking off Self Hack, a corporate wellness program in Tokyo. Teaming up with wellbeing specialists and athletes, we're bringing health into the corporate world—physical health, mental wellbeing, and work-life balance. I'm thrilled to be part of it.

Red Box Japan ! we both left Japan in 2004 and saw each other after 17 years

Podcasting with Redbox Japan

I recorded a podcast with my teammate from Redbox Japan. This initiative supports young people during their periods by delivering red boxes filled with free period products to local schools. The conversation opened my eyes to the challenges young people face and why support and resources matter. I'm proud to stand with this cause.

Reunion with Childhood Friends

Last but not least, I reunited with my elementary school friends. We laughed about our childhood antics and marveled at how far we've all come. Friendships like that don't fade—the shared experiences shaped who we are.

This trip blended personal growth, cultural exploration, and work. It reminded me to stay connected to my roots while pushing forward. Until next time—stay healthy and keep hacking!

Heritage Pullover Hoodie, All over Logo | Tateki Tech

from $65.00

Casual and athletic in design, Tateki Tech presents All Over Print pullover in black. It features a Tateki Tech script pattern throughout for signature style. This sporty top features a drawstring hood and the classic allover logo makes a statement. Ribbing at the hem and cuffs adds comfort and shape to this layer.

Detail

All-Over Print Unisex Hoodie has a comfortable relaxed fit, and a fabric that feels soft to the touch thanks to the unique cotton and polyester blend. The brushed fleece inside makes this hoodie a true wardrobe favorite.