For many anime fans, the concept of "isekai" (another world) represents a fantastical escape. For Fariqqin Anuar, this fantasy became reality each time he set foot in Japan.

"It feels like stepping into a magical realm," the 34-year-old Singaporean shared with AsiaOne. "Every trip feels like I'm being transported to another dimension - I'd joke 'I'm getting isekai'd to Japan again'."

With over 10 visits under his belt, Fariqqin's fascination with the country only grows stronger. His current mission? To explore all 47 prefectures solo - an ambitious goal he's nearly completed after two-and-a-half years, with just four remaining: Kochi, Ehime, Ishikawa and Fukui.

A Dream Deferred

Fariqqin's journey began with even grander aspirations - relocation to Japan. But when COVID-19 halted global travel, his plans collapsed overnight.

"I kept staring at my calendar," he recalled. "Watching news updates daily for any sign of borders reopening." When restrictions finally lifted, fate dealt another cruel blow - a scam wiped out his $30K life savings.

The loss plunged him into depression so severe he contemplated ending his life. Yet through the darkness, one thought persisted: returning to Japan.

Rebuilding Through Travel

Determined to recover financially and emotionally, Fariqqin worked multiple jobs simultaneously for three months - videography contracts by day, retail shifts by evening, emergency medical services on weekends.

The Birth of an Extraordinary Goal

His January 2023 "recovery trip" sparked an audacious idea: visiting every Japanese prefecture without residing there permanently. "I needed something monumental," he explained. The challenge became therapeutic motivation. His strategy?

• Scheduling multi-week trips around work commitments

• Tactical day trips via efficient public transport (some destinations just 45 minutes apart)

• Capsule hotels ($50/night) or occasional splurges near transit hubs ($100-$150)

• Travelling ultra-light (just backpack + small shoulder bag)

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The Joys and Challenges of Exploration

Fluent Japanese skills helped immensely ("I still take weekly conversation practice"). Locals often express amazement at his mission: "They ask 'Why would you do this?' Some think it's impossible!"

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A Cultural Love Affair

What keeps drawing him back?

• The seamless blend of tradition/modernity across regions

• "Their culture permeates everything - music,wrestling,daily life"

• The cleanliness standards ("A breath of fresh air")

• The regional diversity ("Each prefecture has unique charms")

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