Unbelievable. It took slightly over 6 months for me to recap this very, very, very SHORT travel show. I can’t fathom how some bloggers do this almost every day, writing extremely detailed summaries for dramas over 20, even 30 episodes long. Me? I officially suck at recapping shows episodically. I wish I was *that* dedicated. But nevertheless, I made it and we’re here, at the very last chapter of Sakura Memories. Banzai!!

Have you figured out what "happiness" is? Did Niki Chow manage to show it to you or tell you where it can be found (in Japan)? Are you able to see it, taste it, touch it, feel it … in your own life?

Happiness is simple. Happiness can found anywhere and is everywhere. It can be fleeting joy you experience while getting caught up in the moment, like getting a 100% on a very difficult exam or cooking up a delicious dish for the first time. It can be savored bliss you feel while recalling important memories of special people and past times, like the days of your honeymoon or the years you spent playing on the slides and sandbox. But I think the epitome of happiness is when you truly love yourself, for you and no one else.

For a final chapter, Sakura Memories ended rather calmly, without any sighted attempt of pounding in the show’s theme. I guess this is to be expected of any travel show since they are merely "fun" documentaries and nothing more. Thus, Sakura Memories fulfills this purpose.

One day, I definitely want to explore the scenic wonders Niki saw, especially the field of yellow flowers (Rapeseed) because I have seen it often in anime, namely Clannad. I would also like to try those crazy seafood dishes. Our family went to dim sum today and I totally ordered crab just because my mouth had watered when I watched Niki boil those HUGE crab legs. When shopping, I bought strawberries and made a slushy just because she picked out some of the most insanely fresh and red strawberries. Yum!

Niki is adorable. She is naturally bubbly, from being afraid when feeding seagulls to trying out new food and dining with others who don’t speak her language. I think this is where her charisma originates–she breaks down the wall, becomes friendly, and communicates easily. Throwing herself into an experience helps her gain more from it. Likewise, if you put more effort in to something, the more happiness your heart holds when that something works out.

Happiness can be found anywhere, even in a foreign land. You only have to open your heart, and appreciate every second, every encounter in your life. Cherish the relationships you have, the life you live, the person you are. Don’t take the things in front of you for granted. Happiness is that simple, so when the sun rises, make sure to smile.

Don’t forget to go to the Sakura Memories album in the Photobook for more pictures, and see you again in future episodic impressions and other thoughts!

じゃね