Day 9... and our plans changed once again. 😊 Mechanical problems meant Chiharu and Mitsu stayed an extra day on Kikai Island, so our long-awaited karaoke evening will have to wait just a little longer. But no one seemed disappointed. The day began with Radio Taiso on the beach, followed by beachcombing, exploring caves, taking in magnificent hilltop views, meeting local people, and, of course, singing. One thing I've noticed about Chiharu is that she sings almost everywhere she goes. Walking. Driving. Exploring. She laughs easily, notices everything around her, and embraces each day with genuine curiosity. Tomorrow, if all goes to plan, we'll finally reunite for what will be another first—91-year-old Chiharu's first visit to a karaoke bar, where she'll also hear me attempt my very first Japanese song. About this series A Week with Chiharu follows 91-year-old Chiharu as she spends time with her son Mitsu and me in Amami and Kikai Islands. Through everyday moments—walking, travelling, singing, exploring, and simply enjoying life—I'm observing what Japan can teach us about longevity, community, curiosity, and growing older with enthusiasm. https://www.nevertoolateacademy.com/ #Longevity #JapanSolo #curiosity

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Description Ten days ago, I thought I was coming to observe. I left having learned far more than I expected. This final episode begins, as so many mornings did, with Radio Taiso. Then it was time to say goodbye. Before Chiharu left, I asked her two simple questions. What was your favorite part of your time in Amami? Without hesitation, she smiled and answered: "Sailing the boat." Then I asked: What's your secret to living happily? Her answer was beautifully simple: Walk lots. Eat anything. Be interested in everything. During these ten unexpected days together, I watched Chiharu sail, sing, sketch, explore, laugh, make new friends, enjoy old ones, and embrace every day with curiosity. Ironically, the one thing she was disappointed to miss—because of the delayed return from Kikai Island—was our planned karaoke evening together. As we said goodbye, I smiled and said, "Karaoke next time." Over the coming weeks, I'll be writing a longer article reflecting on these ten days with Chiharu, what I learned, and how her way of living aligns with so many of the patterns I've observed while researching aging and longevity across Japan. For now, I simply want to say: Thank you, Chiharu and Mitsu, for allowing me to hangout with you. It`s been an honor. About this series What began as A Week with Chiharu unexpectedly became ten unforgettable days. Through ordinary moments shared with Chiharu and her son Mitsu, I've been exploring what everyday life in Japan can teach us about longevity, community, curiosity, and living well at every age. https://www.nevertoolateacademy.com/

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For the past two years I've been travelling across Japan, letting longevity data guide my journey. This time the numbers have brought me to Shizuoka Prefecture—the prefecture with Japan's shortest Red Zone, the years between health span and lifespan. What makes people here stay healthier for longer? That's what I'm here to discover. This is the beginning of another chapter in my search for the lessons behind healthy aging in Japan. Subscribe for more field notes from Japan's longevity hotspots. #Japan #Longevity #JapanSoloFieldNotes https://www.nevertoolateacademy.com/blog

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