Hello and welcome!
I’m a woman in my early 60s who recently retired from teaching—and jumped into a brand-new chapter of life as a blogger. I’ve always loved traveling and cycling, and in 2025, I’m especially excited about discovering the world through the Osaka–Kansai Expo.
“Today is the youngest you’ll ever be.”
That’s why I keep trying new things, one step at a time.
🌎 Who I Am
For nearly 30 years, I worked as a geography teacher at an integrated junior and senior high school. Education was more than a job to me—it was a calling.
I also coordinated various international programs, including homestay exchanges and study tours to the United States 🇺🇸, the Philippines 🇵🇭, Taiwan 🇹🇼, and New Zealand 🇳🇿.
Watching students grow through unfamiliar experiences inspired me to do the same—to step out of my own comfort zone and embrace the wider world.
🚲 What I Love
This blog is where I share the stories, discoveries, and practical tips that have enriched my life—through travel, cycling, and everyday adventures.
- Travel essentials that truly made a difference
- Hidden gems and must-see destinations
- Cycling adventures around Japan and abroad
- Tips for getting the most out of Expo 2025
I hope my experiences help you explore the world with a little more comfort, curiosity, and joy.
💐 Why “Lupinus”?
My pen name “Lupinus” comes from a children’s book I read while raising my kids: “Miss Rumphius” by Barbara Cooney. The main character plants lupines everywhere she goes, making the world more beautiful.
Inspired by this, I dreamed of visiting Lake Tekapo in New Zealand, famous for its wild lupines. In 2017, I finally went—but when I arrived, the flowers had already withered that year.
Just when I was losing hope, our guide took me to a quiet field where the lupines were still blooming—a moment I’ll never forget. I was told it might have been the last season for those flowers, as the caretaker had passed away.
It felt like a small miracle. I was truly grateful to be there at just the right time.
Since then, “Lupinus” has become my pen name—a reminder to live like Miss Rumphius and spread beauty wherever I go.
🌸 A Final Note
Thank you so much for visiting my blog.
If something here inspires your next trip, helps solve a little problem, or simply makes you smile—then I’m happy.
Have a nice time! 🌿
– Lupinus