The Long Summer in Japan is Finally Over

Summer in Japan usually lasts for about two months, but even though it’s short, it feels like it stretches on forever because of the intense heat. Honestly, I don’t know why so many tourists still choose to visit Japan during this time. For me, I try to avoid going out as much as possible—just a little walk outside, and I’m already drenched in sweat. It’s just that hot!

This year, though, things were a bit different. Summer lasted longer than two months. It was strangely long, and the heat felt more intense than usual. It made me think about how climate change is affecting our weather patterns. Normally, we’d start to feel some relief by September, but this year, the heat stretched into November. It’s a reminder of how unpredictable our environment can be, and how much we need to pay attention to climate change.

Even though summer officially ends, Japan still faces heavy rain and typhoons towards the tail end of the season. Sometimes, it feels like Japan is turning into a tropical island—with the heat, the rains, and strong winds. It’s a bit of a rollercoaster weather-wise, even after summer has officially ended.

Working on My Book

Aside from the exhibition, I’m also working on a book that I wrote and illustrated three decades ago. This book has been waiting for so long to be published, and I honestly don’t know why it hasn’t come out yet. It’s like it’s been pregnant for 30 years, and I really hope it will finally be given birth soon. I’ve been turning the project on and off for years—there’s always something that happens that makes me stop—whether it’s being busy with other things, or just losing the inspiration for a moment. But I’m determined to finally finish it next year. I really hope that this will be the time it all comes together and I can finally get it out there for people to read and to get inspired.

I also plan to showcase the illustrations in another exhibition, so it’s something I really want to wrap up soon. Here’s hoping that next year will be the year it finally sees the light of day!

Welcoming the New Year

As the year draws to a close, I’m thinking about the new opportunities and projects that might come my way. I’ll definitely stay busy with more exhibitions and creative work, so I’m excited for what the next year will bring.

“There comes a time when you have to choose between turning the page and closing the book.”

After years of dedication, I recently made the difficult decision to quit my job. It wasn’t an easy choice because, despite the challenges, I genuinely loved my work. I was in a position where I could support foreigners in Japan, helping them navigate the complexities of living here by offering educational support in Japanese language education. Watching people gain the skills they needed to find stable and better jobs was deeply fulfilling. The salary wasn’t high, but the sense of purpose and the knowledge that I was making a real difference kept me going.

However, something changed that forced me to reevaluate my place there. I started to experience bullying and blatant disrespect from one of my workmates. What made the situation even more painful was the setting. This wasn’t just any workplace—it was an international organization that existed to help foreigners, a space that should have fostered understanding, respect, and empathy. To experience prejudice and discrimination in a place like that felt incredibly ironic. I would have expected that kind of behavior in a more traditional or corporate setting, but not there, where diversity and inclusivity were supposed to be core values.

Having lived in Japan for many years, it was shocking to experience this so late in my time here. I’ve always known that certain challenges exist when you’re a foreigner in another country, but I never thought I’d face it so directly in a place that was meant to help people like me. It felt like a betrayal.

When I reported the issue to the company, I thought they’d step in and handle things fairly. After all, this was an environment that claimed to value equality and respect. But their response was far from what I had hoped for. My concerns were downplayed, and the final decision felt unjust. It became clear that I was no longer in a workplace where I could thrive, or even feel safe. The environment had become toxic, and staying there wasn’t an option anymore.

Leaving the job wasn’t something I did lightly. I had poured years of my life into this role, and there was so much I loved about it—especially the opportunity to help others. But sometimes, when something you love turns into something that hurts you, it’s time to move on. Maybe this was the universe’s way of telling me that I had outgrown the role, that it was time to seek new challenges and opportunities.

The future feels uncertain, but I’m trying to embrace it. I know I’ll carry the lessons and experiences from this job with me, and I’ll always cherish the people I was able to help. This chapter of my life may be closing, but I’m excited to see where the next one takes me. Maybe this is the push I needed to grow in new ways.

"There comes a point when you have to realize that moving on is the best decision for your well-being, no matter how much you loved what you’re leaving behind.”

A Second Home

Bangkok has always held a special place in my heart, so when my schedule permitted a break this June, there was no question about where I would go. Returning to Bangkok felt like coming back to my second home, a city rich with memories and comfort.

Boot Camp at the Gym

One of the highlights of my vacation was the rigorous workout routine I adopted. It felt like a boot camp, pushing my limits and helping me rediscover my strength and endurance. The state-of-the-art gym facilities in the hotel and the motivating environment kept me committed to my fitness goals. Each session left me feeling stronger and more energized.

A Feast for Health Enthusiasts

There was nothing better than the amazing breakfast buffet that was waiting for me after a hard exercise. My daily treat became an assortment of fruits and fresh salad vegetables. This filling and tasty breakfast was more than simply a meal; it was a sensory extravaganza, full of aromas and colors that awakened my senses.

Pampered by  Thai massage

I made sure to treat myself to this restorative practice on a regular basis because a trip to Bangkok wouldn't be complete without getting a traditional Thai massage. Every massage was an adventure into relaxation, with knowledgeable therapists relieving my muscles of strain. I felt completely revitalized and calm after receiving acupressure, rhythmic pressing, and stretching.

A Joyful Retreat

With a focus on self-care and wellbeing, this trip was unlike any other. I had a significant sense of mental and physical rejuvenation by the time my vacation was over. Once again, Bangkok's distinct fusion of contemporary and tradition proved to be the ideal haven for my spirit.

An Unexpected Delay

Going back to Tokyo, my flight was unexpectedly cancelled, leading to a six-hour wait at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport. Despite the inconvenience, the airport's environment made the wait more bearable if not enjoyable.

A Modern Marvel

Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport is huge, modern, and impeccably clean. Built almost two decades ago, it shows no signs of aging; instead, it keeps getting bigger, better, and more beautiful. The architecture and facilities are impressive, reflecting the city's forward-thinking spirit.

Culinary Delights

The airport offers a plethora of dining options, including several Michelin-starred restaurants. This provided a perfect opportunity to indulge in world-class cuisine while waiting for my rescheduled flight. Whether you crave local Thai delicacies or international dishes, the variety and quality of the food available is remarkable.

Convenience and Comfort

The state of the restrooms at an airport is a factor that matters most to a lot of passengers. At Bangkok's airport, restrooms are easily accessible around every corner and are clean, aromatic, and well-maintained.  Bangkok's airport facilities are quite close to Tokyo's, yet nothing quite matches Tokyo's famously high standards for public restrooms.

Conclusion

Despite the unexpected delay, my overall experience at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport was positive. Its modern amenities, cleanliness, and excellent dining options made the wait more pleasant. This minor hiccup did little to tarnish the overall joy and rejuvenation I felt from my trip to Bangkok. Returning to Tokyo, I felt refreshed and grateful for the memorable experience, looking forward to my next visit to my second home.

Reflecting on my trip, I realized that sometimes, the most rewarding experiences come from the moments we least expect. Bangkok once again worked its magic, leaving me revitalized and ready to embrace whatever comes next.

The title of Sun's exhibition, "In The Garden," pays homage to the venue that has become his oasis and refuge. Koyama Garden's serene Japanese landscape has provided the artist with a source of inspiration, a place where he can retreat, reflect, and reconnect with nature.

The exhibition will feature works from Sun's early years in Tokyo, offering a rare glimpse into his artistic evolution. Visitors can expect to see a vibrant array of paintings, etchings, and poetry, all centered around the theme of embracing the inner child. Sun's work is characterized by its colorful and vibrant energy, shining with positivity and joy.

"I am excited to share this collection of works with the public," says Dennis Sun. "Koyama Garden has been a source of inspiration for me, and I hope that my art can convey the love and positivity that I feel when I am here."

About Dennis Sun:

Dennis Sun is a highly acclaimed artist known for his captivating paintings, intricate etchings, and evocative poetry. With a career spanning several decades, Sun's work has been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world. His unique artistic style, characterized by vibrant colors, intricate details, and emotive storytelling, has garnered him widespread acclaim and recognition.

www.dennissun.com

https://www.instagram.com/dennissunart/

Koyama Garden,  3-1-21 Koyama, Nerima, Tokyo  / 03-3926-7810

Access:  https://www.kouyama-teien.info/access/

From navigating cultural differences to overcoming language barriers, our journeys in Japan were filled with twists and turns, but they ultimately led us to moments of growth and self-discovery. Through our lectures, we aimed to inspire others to pursue their dreams fearlessly and embrace the opportunities that come their way.

But perhaps the most heartwarming aspect of our visit was the opportunity to give back to our home province of Pampanga that had nurtured us. As we shared our stories and insights with students and members of the public, we hoped to impart valuable lessons and ignite a sense of curiosity and ambition in the next generation of Kapampangans. 

In the end, my time in Pampanga was not just about receiving recognition or sharing my experiences—it was about coming full circle and giving back to the place that shaped me into the person I am today. It was a reminder of the importance of community, connection, and the power of paying it forward. And as I left Pampanga, I carried with me a renewed sense of purpose and gratitude for the opportunities that lie ahead in my life in Japan.

Two months later, I found myself back in the Philippines, and again in Pampanga, returning to my roots in the vibrant city of Angeles. However, this trip held a significance beyond mere homecoming—it was a momentous occasion that intertwined personal milestones with family celebrations.

The purpose of my visit was twofold: to host my very first solo art exhibition in the Philippines and to partake in a triple birthday celebration for my beloved mother and two older sisters. February marked the month of their birthdays, and as my mother reached the remarkable age of 88, it was a moment to cherish and celebrate together.

Having showcased my artwork in numerous exhibitions across Japan and other countries over the years, this exhibition held a special significance for me. It wasn't just about showcasing my art; it was about returning to my roots and sharing my passion with the community that had supported me from the very beginning.

The art exhibition was a testament to years of passion, dedication, and creativity. As guests wandered through the gallery, they were greeted by a tapestry of colors and emotions—each piece a reflection of my experiences, inspirations, and dreams. It was a surreal moment to see my artwork adorning the walls of the gallery at Museo Ning Angeles, surrounded by the faces of friends, family, and fellow art enthusiasts. But more than just a personal milestone, the exhibition was an opportunity to connect with my fellow Kapampangans and share my creativity and perspective with them. Through my art, I hoped to spark conversations, evoke emotions, and inspire others to pursue their own artistic passions. 

But amidst the excitement of the exhibition, the true highlight of the trip was the opportunity to celebrate three remarkable women who had shaped my life in countless ways. My mother, with her boundless love and unwavering support, had been my guiding light through every triumph and challenge. And my sisters, with their laughter, wisdom, and companionship, had been my pillars of strength and inspiration.

And as I bid farewell to Angeles City once again, I carried with me not only memories of a successful exhibition and a joyous celebration but also a renewed sense of connection to my roots and a deep appreciation for the love and support of my family. In the end, it was a trip filled with love, laughter, and the timeless beauty of family bonds—a journey that I will always hold close to my heart.

Thanks to Isabelita Manalastas-Watanabe for pushing me to do an art exhibition in Angeles City! Salamat a dacal king Kuliat Foundation ampo king Museo Ning Angeles for letting me to do my exhibition even on a very short notice. To my family and friends who helped me make this show a success, thanks a million!