Hunting for Mini Parts in a Junkyard: An Unexpected Adventure

 I never considered myself much of a mechanic, aside from the basics-changing a flat tire or installing a sound system like I did back in the day on my 1978 Super Bettle in the Philippines (but that's another story). However, when my Mini Cooper started leaking coolant, I was suddenly faced with he choice of paying the dealership over $1k for repairs or figuring out a way to do it myself. The leak was discovered during a routine oil change when the dealer did an inspection and handed me the dreaded repair estimate. Knowing the dealerships charge a premium, I started wondering if this was something I could tackle on my own. When I mentioned it to my friend Owen, he confidently said, "Bro, you can do it. That's an easy fix, and paying that much is crazy". I agreed-so did my wallet.

The entrance to the junkyard

Determined to save as much as possible, I decided to go even further and hunt for the needed parts in a junkyard. Buying used parts from a salvage yard sounded like a great way to cut costs while also adding a bit of adventure to the process. I asked my son Adi, who's into cars, to tag along. Unfortunately, we learned that there was an age restriction for entry, and he didn't meet it. That meant I had to return the next day solo, ready to navigate the maze wrecked cars in search of Mini Cooper gold parts.

A wrecked Mini Cooper Countryman 

Upon arrival, I paid the $5 entry fee and received a list of available cars. That's when I hit my first roadblock-the most recent Mini they had was from 2013, and my car required a newer part. Still, I decided to make the most of my visit, wandering through row of cars, peeking inside wrecked interiors, and marveling at the variety of vehicles that ended up here. There was something oddly fascinating about it all. yet a bit sad too. Many of these cars had been in accidents, their stories ending abruptly. Some even had personal belongings and documents left behind, a reminder that each one had a past before landing in this metal graveyard.

   

   
A Nissan 300ZX in a sad state

Despite not finding the part I needed, the experience was worthwhile. I t was my first real foray into junkyard scavenging, and while it didn't yield the results I had hoped for, I walked away with a newfound appreciation for the process. It was eye-opening to see firsthand how many usable parts are still out there for the taking -if you're willing to loo. Plus, the was something satisfying about the idea of fixing my car with my own hands rather than throwing a pile of cash at a dealership.

 

A butchered Mini Cooper Hardtop

Now, with the junkyard search proving unsuccessful, I've move on to the next phase: hunting for the part online. While the adventure didn't go as planned, it sparkled something in me/ Who knows? Maybe this won't be my last dive into DIY car repair. For now, though, it's time to fire up my browser and see if the internet can succeed where the junkyard couldn't. 

An 80's Toyota Corolla GT-S

Random Things About Japan That Captivated Us

Sapporo’s Underground World

As winter approached, we expected the cold to dominate our Hokkaido trip. Instead, we discovered a sprawling underground city. Malls, restaurants, and shops are interconnected, making it easy to explore without braving the chill.

 

Sapporo's Underground World

Combini and Culinary Delights

Japan’s combini stores are a foodie’s paradise. From ready-to-eat meals to exquisite desserts, they have it all. Add street food and fast-food chains like McDonald’s and Wendy’s with exclusive menus, and you’ve got a culinary adventure unlike any other.

 

Which one, Lawson, Family Mart or 7-11? They're all good

Thrift Shopping Heaven

For some, visiting Japan means diving into its thrift shopping scene. From stylish clothing to luxury bags, these shops offer treasures that make the hunt thrilling and rewarding.

 

Non-stop shopping for luxury items

Surprising Attractions

Unexpected gems abound in Japan. Think public restrooms with glass walls that turn opaque for privacy or a Starbucks in a serene park, offering a tranquil, zen-like atmosphere.

 

Glass public restrooms and Hachicko Statue in Shibuya

Everyday Fascinations

Even the ordinary feels extraordinary in Japan. Vending machines with unique items, perfectly designed public spaces, and a meticulous attention to detail elevate daily life into something special.

 

Streets of Honcho with Mt. Fuji and Nissan cars on display in Shibuya

The Never-Ending Discovery

No matter how many times you visit, Japan always offers something new to fall in love with. Its mix of innovation, tradition, and surprises makes every trip unforgettable.

Starbucks in Daikyocho

Exploring Luxury Thrift Shopping in Japan: A Blend of Tradition, Sustainability, and Style

In recent years, Japan has gained a reputation as a hub for luxury thrift shopping, attracting fashion-forward individuals seeking high-end, pre-loved items at a fraction of their original price. Japan’s secondhand market is not just a place for bargains but also a cultural phenomenon deeply rooted in the country’s values of sustainability, preservation, and respect for craftsmanship. While you may stumble upon high-end items such as designer handbags, clothing, and accessories, Japan’s approach to luxury goods is unique, emphasizing both quality and modesty. As a society that treasures items for their lasting value, Japanese thrift shops cater to those with an appreciation for longevity over fast consumption.

One of the many thrift shops in Japan

Japan’s mentality toward used items is influenced by deeply ingrained cultural principles like mottainai, which signifies a sense of regret over wasting something that still has value. This ethos extends to nearly all aspects of life, from clothing to household goods. Thrift shops are abundant in Japan, offering everything from vintage clothes to secondhand furniture. What sets these stores apart is the meticulous care with which pre-owned goods are handled, often cleaned, repaired, and displayed in pristine condition. Items, especially luxury goods like handbags, are carefully inspected for authenticity and quality. In fact, luxury thrift shops in Japan are known for their rigorous checks, ensuring that customers receive only genuine items, which may explain why luxury secondhand shopping has become so popular among both locals and international tourists.

 

There's no shortage of LV's. 90% of thrift shops would have em in their shelves

When it comes to counterfeit goods, however, Japan has strict laws in place. The possession, use, or sale of fake designer goods can result in heavy fines or even arrest. Tourists caught attempting to bring counterfeit items into Japan or use them in public can face serious consequences, including confiscation of the goods, fines, and possible legal action. The Japanese government enforces intellectual property rights rigorously, and this extends to fashion items, where counterfeit bags or clothing are strictly prohibited. This makes luxury secondhand shopping a safe bet for buyers, as sellers in reputable shops are cautious about authenticity and follow the country’s laws closely.

A Hermes Bride-A-Brac Pouch priced at 111,700 yen or $685

Another reason Japan’s secondhand market is thriving is the Japanese preference for “silent luxury”—a concept that values quality, subtlety, and understated elegance. Many Japanese consumers prefer to buy high-end products without loud logos or overt brand names. This preference has influenced the luxury goods market, where items like handbags, watches, and shoes are selected based on their craftsmanship and design, not simply their brand recognition. The rise of thrift stores offering quality items without flashy logos is, therefore, not only a reflection of the country’s sustainability efforts but also a testament to the desire for refined, quiet luxury.

 

Don Quixote, a store popular to tourist also carries used luxury brands

The Japanese’s dedication to reusing and recycling, whether through thrift shops or selling pre-owned items, highlights a growing global trend of sustainability in fashion. In a world increasingly aware of the environmental impact of fast fashion, Japan’s approach to luxury thrift shopping offers a model for how pre-owned goods can be embraced without sacrificing style or quality. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, indulging in Japan’s thrift culture allows you to experience the luxury of timeless fashion while supporting sustainable practices that value longevity over disposability.

 

These thrift shops can be overwhelming and sometimes be too much

This shift of shoppers aligns with growing disdain for overt branding, flashy logos and oversized monograms are now seen less as status symbols  and more as an attempt to conform. Embracing thrifted luxury allows individuals to cultivate unique, understated style championing sustainability and rejecting fast fashion and inflated prices.

10 Things We Brought to Japan That We Didn’t Need (and Why You Should Leave Them Behind)

As seasoned travelers and repeat visitors to Japan, we thought we had our packing routine down to a science. Yet, even with all our planning, we brought several things that ended up being useless—or worse, a hassle. If you’re planning a trip to Japan, here’s a list of items to reconsider packing, along with our experiences and what we’d do differently next time.

Night at Ginza

10. My DSLR Camera

I’ve relied on my Canon D80 DSLR for years, and it’s been a staple on many of our trips. However, newer smartphones, like the iPhone 16 Pro Max, now rival (or even outperform) mid-tier DSLRs in convenience, video quality, and photo versatility. Lugging around the camera felt unnecessary when my phone could handle it all, including night photography and cinematic videos. Sucky part is, I never even took it out of the suitcase.

My faithful Canon 80D

9. Hand-Carry Backpacks

While backpacks can be useful, they became a nuisance for us on this trip. We already had two carry-on suitcases and two checked bags, and adding backpacks made traveling cumbersome—especially on the way home when we accumulated three additional bags. Between managing them at the airport and navigating public transportation, we wished we had skipped them altogether.

These Coach backpacks are workhorses on our travels

8. Extra Clothes

If you’re a fan of shopping, Japan is a paradise. Brands like Uniqlo and GU offer high-quality, affordable clothing, and thrift stores are packed with unique finds—many of them barely used or even brand new. If you’re planning to shop, two sets of clothes are enough to start with, as you’ll likely end up buying more there. Bringing too many clothes just eats up space.

Over packed on the clothing

7. Basic Toiletries

Toothbrushes, shampoo, shaving cream—Japan has it all, often in higher quality and at reasonable prices. Convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Lawson carry travel-sized items, while stores like Don Quijote and drugstores have full-sized options if needed. There’s no need to pack these basics unless you have a specific product preference.

6. An Extra Pair of Shoes

We brought extra shoes with the intention of having backups. Ironically, we ended up buying new shoes in Japan anyway! Japan’s shoe options, from trendy sneakers to traditional footwear, are fantastic and often cheaper than back home. Stick to one versatile pair and plan to shop if needed.

These Nike shoes are soft but gave me back pains after a whole day of walking

5. Snacks

We packed snacks thinking we’d need them, but Japan’s food scene completely blew us away. From convenience store meals to street food and Michelin-starred dining, 90% of what we ate was amazing. Save the luggage space—you’ll probably be too busy enjoying Japan’s local flavors to eat what you packed.

Snacks we bought in Japan

4. US Dollars

We brought over $1,000 in cash thinking it’d be useful, but we hardly touched it. Japan is a predominantly cashless society now, and most payments can be made using Suica cards, debit cards, or even mobile apps like Apple Pay. Keep a small amount of yen for emergencies, but there’s no need to bring so much cash.

3. Pajamas and Sleeping Clothes

We thought we’d save ourselves the trouble by bringing our own sleepwear, but Japan’s clothing stores are so tempting that we ended up buying new pajamas anyway. If you’re planning to shop, leave these at home and treat yourself to something uniquely Japanese, like a comfy set from Uniqlo. We stayed in 8 different hotels, and all of em provided us with pajamas or "Yukatas".

9H Capsule Hotel PJ's

2. Multiple Laptops and iPads

We overdid it here, bringing both laptops and iPads. They were heavy, took up space, and were a hassle at airport security. Unless you absolutely need them, stick to one lightweight device. The constant worry about breaking them during travel made us regret bringing so many.

1. ???

This one is up to you to decide. What’s the one thing you always pack but rarely use? Maybe it’s a travel iron, a hairdryer (most hotels in Japan provide one), or something else you think you can’t live without. For us, this spot is reserved for all the unnecessary “security blanket” items that we knew deep down we didn’t need but brought anyway.

Sapporo Uniqlo's exclusives

Lessons Learned

Despite being experienced travelers, we underestimated just how much Japan has to offer and overpacked for our trip. We’d left plenty of space in our checked luggage knowing we’d shop, but the extra items we brought still caused issues—both in terms of space and airline fees for additional bags.

Now that we’ve been back home for weeks, we’re already longing to return to Japan, even if just for a few days to pick up the little things we didn’t have room for. Next time, we’ll pack lighter and smarter—leaving more room for all the treasures Japan has waiting for us!

What about you? What’s the most useless thing you’ve ever packed on a trip? Let us know in the comments!

Travel Insurance. Worth it?

Travel insurance is often an overlooked aspect of a trip, but when something goes wrong, it can be a lifesaver. On a recent trip to Japan, my luggage was damaged at the airport. After retrieving it from baggage claim, I noticed a 2-3 inch crack in the shell of my Rimowa suitcase. The damage was significant, but fortunately, we were still at the airport, so I immediately went to the JAL counter to report the issue. However, instead of offering compensation, they advised me to file a claim through my travel insurance and gave me a PIR (Property Irregularity Report). While it was a relief that I had travel insurance, this situation was anything but easy to manage while we were on our early leg of our vacation.

Sapporo gave us a beating with the snow

Dealing with the damage during our trip was frustrating. We had to continue using the damaged luggage, which only made things worse as the crack slowly worsened with each use. The last thing I wanted was to be stuck with a broken suitcase during the last days of our trip. Fortunately, Rimowa had a few locations around Tokyo, and we were able to visit one of their stores. I explained the situation, and the staff agreed to take a look at it, but they couldn’t guarantee a fix or provide an estimated timeline. To make matters more complicated, we were scheduled to leave for San Diego in just two days. Faced with limited time and options, I had to make a tough decision.

  

The damage/crack on our luggage

After discussing it with Anna, we decided to buy a replacement suitcase rather than risk the broken one failing during our travels. The hope was that we could get reimbursed for the damaged luggage later through the insurance claim process. It was a difficult decision to make, especially with the uncertainty of whether the insurance would cover the full cost, but it was the most practical solution given our tight travel schedule. Now, in addition to our original luggage, we had a new suitcase in our growing luggage family, but we still had to deal with the original damaged one.

Pre-LVMH Rimowa's at Don Quixote

The rest of the trip was tense, as we kept our fingers crossed that the damaged Rimowa would make it back to San Diego in one piece. To ensure it survived the flight, I reinforced it with stickers to prevent the crack from spreading further. Despite my efforts, I couldn’t help but worry about the suitcase splitting into two during the journey. Fortunately, the luggage held up, and it was still in one piece when we retrieved it at the airport in San Diego. However, the real ordeal was just beginning as I had to navigate the complicated claims process to get reimbursement.

Quick fix with a Trek sticker

Although I started filing the claim while we were still in Japan, I quickly realized how tedious and time-consuming the process would be. I needed to gather all the required documents and evidence to support my case, including the PIR, receipts, photos of the damage, and proof of purchase for the replacement luggage. It became an arduous task, as I had to ensure I met all the insurer’s requirements. But despite the frustration, I was thankful that I had travel insurance to fall back on. While it didn’t ease the stress of dealing with damaged luggage in the middle of a trip, it provided some peace of mind knowing that, hopefully, I would be reimbursed for the expenses once the process was complete.

My (Brian) top 10 things I bought in Japan

 Japan is a shopper's paradise, offering a unique blend of tradition, innovation, and style in every store. During our recent trip, I had the chance to explore some of the best shopping spots across the country and pick up a few unforgettable items. From quirky souvenirs to high-quality fashion pieces, here's a list of the top 10 things I bought in Japan-each one a perfect reflection of the country's incredible craftmanship, culture and creativity.

#10 Gashapons

The moment you arrived at the airport, these things would immediately catch your attention since they would be lined up in rows. We're not talking 5-10 machines, but 20 or more. And these are cheap, ranging from 200-500 yen. And there are hundreds to choose from. Only downside is, you get it random. If you don't like to gamble, then just stay away.

#9 Omiyage

 These are souvenirs that something you bring back as a memento from your trip for the people you left behind that did not travel with you. As a Filipino, we also refer to these as "pasalubong". Typically, they're food from the region, location or city that you were in. These can also be purchased in most major train stations, that can be very convenient but can be bulky to pack in most cases.

#8 Cord organizer

 Very specific on this since I find this very useful in our travels. This was very cheap as well, costing me only 196 yen which I bought at a Lawson store. I only opted to buy one because I was skeptic at first, but then when I went back to buy some more, it was all sold out. We even had to go to several one's, but there were none.

#7 Nail cutter/clippers

 This was on our top list to buy. We made sure that we're going to hunt this down. We bought one on our previous trip and regretted to only buying one. Even though these are available in any store, try to buy the one's from the combini stores such as 7-11 or Family Mart because they turned out cheaper (around 600 to 800 yen). Don't bother buying these at Donki or pharmacies because they range from 1100 to 1500 yen.

#6 Starbucks Been There Series Merch

 It's not for all peeps but these Starbucks tumbler's and mugs are making a killing for any tourist in any country that they visit that has a Starbucks store. We are coffee drinkers, and suckers for these merch. Japan has the best designs and you can't turn your back and go home empty handed. We actually bought more than ten because we travelled all over Japan. And this made it difficult to pack coz these take so much space in our suitcase. These are priced at 4800 yen but you get a free drink.

#5 Japan toys and figures/collectibles

 I'm a toy collector and Japanese toys are top of the line. These things are usually expensive in the US and it maybe readily available online, it's still way cheaper buying it there. They even have a whole city which is Akihabara dedicated for all anime/collectible merch, a mecca for any toy lover. I made a mistake again this time, since I only allotted a day. Anna suggested next time, we should book a hotel in the area so we don't have to travel and the kids would love it too.

#4 Bag clips and tags

 Again not for all, but during our entire trip, whenever we rode the trains or walk around the city, people would wear several of these on their bags. It doesn't matter if you have a simple canvass tote or an Hermes Birkin, they would have one or even several of these clips hanging on their bags.  I saw an old guy on the Metro with his LV Speedy that had a Godzilla and Demon Slayer hangin on the side, and that's trendy. The one pictured is a Tokyo Station exclusive Pikachu Train conductor priced at 2400 Yen.

#3 Uniqlo's Regional Canvass Tote Bags

 Almost similar to Starbucks Tumblers that are only available on specific cities. These totes boast the designs of local merchants and restaurants. The designs are so cute and priced at 2400 Yen each. We actually used one all through out our trip. It can also be a good "pasalubong" for people back home. We did not purchased any from Ginza just because the designs did not appeal to us.

#2 Shoes

 Anna bought a pair of New Balance shoes. Yes I know, they're not even Japanese made/brand. But the specific pair she bought are way cheaper compared here in the US. And when I say cheap, I mean 50% cheap. And not like the one's you can buy in an outlet here that are last season or a few years old. These were current models that you can purchase on retail stores that would range from $150-$200. But buying 3-4 pairs would hurt luggage space. 

#1 Rimowa

 You can go to any Don Quixote store and buy any cheaper brand of luggage but as I said in a previous post,  Rimowa luggages are game changers. Europe would still be the best place to buy Rimowa's, but Japan has the next best price to buy them. We stayed in Shinjuku and had to go to Ginza to buy one. I wanted the check-in Classic, but Anna was not ready to get emotionally damage to have it banged/dinged during the flight. So just opted for the poly. We still saved $300++ and again, that's buying it from a Rimowa store.

 

 Going to Japan is not just shopping, but its unavoidable. I would say, we saved thousands of dollars if we would have bought all of the stuff we brought back. We enjoyed our trip but even spending almost 3 weeks there, we still feel that we still missed a lot of items that we could have bought. If you have money to throw around, spending $50k in items is possible without batting an eyelash.