Declutter Your Mind with Japanese Minimalism

Japanese Minimalism

Fumio Sasaki lives in a one bedroom apartment in Tokyo. He has adopted a Japanese minimalism as his lifestyle.  He has exactly 20 items in his closet. No more, no less. His apartment, which is only 20 square meters (215 square feet), doesn’t have any furniture at all. Mr. Sasaki prefers to spend his time traveling or creating memories with his friends. He has detached himself from everyday objects in order to live a clean, orderly life.

Recommended reading for those interested in understanding Japanese aesthetics

The Book of Tea

A Life Rich in Experiences

Mr. Sasaki is not alone. There are an increasing number of people in Japan embracing the minimalist lifestyle. The lifestyle, he says, allows him to focus on what is important to him. Instead of spending his weekends cleaning or rearranging his possessions, he travels and enjoys a freedom many of us can only dream of.

Fumio has written a book about his experiences entitled, “Goodbye, Things: The New Japanese Minimalism.” Perhaps the most remarkable thing about Fumio and his lifestyle is that he is just a normal individual inspired by simplicity. The book offers tips for those interested in minimalism and also reflects on the way his life has transformed since he began his journey over two years ago.

American Inspiration

Surprisingly, Mr. Sasaki attributes his new life philosophy to an American named Andrew Hyde. Hyde sold all but 15 of his possessions and spent his time traveling to over 42 countries.

Andrew Hyde is a self proclaimed vagabond and minimalist with a passion for travel and writing. His book, appropriately named “A Modern Manual 15 Countries with 15 Things” is also available online.

Live Simply, Travel Far

One thing minimalists have in common across cultures is the desire to travel and experience life. A life without shopping and clutter offers a freedom to save money and see the world. Friendships thrive when time is spent on people and not things.

It’s important to note that a minimalist lifestyle is typically not done out of necessity or for lack of money. In order to truly benefit from minimalism, individuals must want to live a life free of possessions. In this way, minimalists can focus their energy on other passions such as friends, family, and life experiences.