About me

Hi! I’m Shingo Naruyama, the creator of this blog.

Thank you for visiting Shingo’s Japan Guide!

I’m a Japanese office worker in my 30s, working in a chemical manufacturer. I live in Japan with my wife and daughter.

On this blog, I share real experiences from my life in Japan, including travel, saunas, activities, and other things I discover along the way.

About “Tsunaten”

The Japanese name of my blog is Shingo no Tsunaten Blog.

“Tsunaten” is a word I created from “Connecting the dots,” the famous phrase from Steve Jobs’ Stanford commencement speech.

I like the idea that experiences and knowledge that may seem unrelated today can connect in unexpected ways in the future.

That’s why I try to experience new things, learn from them, and keep adding new “dots” to my life.

This philosophy inspired me to start this blog.

Why I Started This Blog

One of my dreams is to someday become a blogger who travels around the world.

I’ve loved traveling since I was a child, especially visiting historic sites, beautiful landscapes, interesting architecture, and places with a unique local culture.

As a full-time office worker with a family, however, my time and budget are limited.

So instead of waiting for the “perfect” time to pursue my dream, I decided to start with what I can do now.

I created this blog in November 2024 to write about my travels, hobbies, experiences, and things I’m learning along the way.

Hopefully, all these little dots will eventually connect into something bigger.

A Little About My Background

I majored in law at university, but after graduation I decided that I wanted to work with tangible products.

I started my career in B2B sales for a manufacturer, working with customers in Japan and overseas. I later moved to a chemical manufacturer, where I currently work.

So somehow, despite never being a science person, I ended up working in the chemical industry!

Things I Enjoy

Travel

Travel has always been one of my biggest interests.

Rather than luxury shopping or entertainment, I especially enjoy discovering local culture, architecture, historic sites, and nature.

When I was a child, I even dreamed of becoming a TV reporter who traveled around the world exploring mysterious places!

Reading

I rediscovered my love of reading as an adult.

I mainly read novels, especially mystery and science fiction, but I also enjoy business and nonfiction books when something catches my interest.

You’ll often find me reading while traveling, commuting, or waiting for something.

Photography

I bought a mirrorless camera almost on impulse while looking for a new hobby.
I mainly use it to photograph my travels and everyday life.

I’m definitely not a professional photographer, but I’m enjoying learning and improving as I go.

Sauna

I became interested in Japanese sauna culture in 2025.
Since then, I’ve been visiting different saunas, particularly around the Kansai region.

I’m still exploring the world of Japanese saunas myself, which is why I enjoy sharing the experience from a regular visitor’s perspective.

Badminton

I’ve played badminton since high school, making it one of my longest-running hobbies.
These days I usually play once or twice a week when I have time.

I’m not an elite player, but after many years of playing, badminton has definitely become an important part of my life.

Investing

I also invest mainly in mutual funds and Japanese stocks, along with some overseas stocks.

I prefer taking a relaxed, long-term approach and particularly enjoy Japanese stocks that offer shareholder benefits.

What You’ll Find on This Blog

Most importantly, I want this blog to be based on things I’ve actually experienced myself.

Rather than simply collecting information from the internet, I want to share what places were really like, what I enjoyed, what surprised me, and what might be useful for someone visiting Japan.

I’m not a professional travel writer or a Japan expert.
I’m simply a Japanese guy exploring my own country — and occasionally the rest of the world — while balancing work, family, and everyday life.

I hope my experiences can help you discover something new in Japan.

Thanks for visiting, and I hope you enjoy Shingo’s Japan Guide!