I can't believe that things are changing.... But I am excited for what comes next! - Would YOU Stay here? Thank you so much to Yo-chan for being a part of this adventure! And thank you to the amazing crew of supporters who have made these videos possible - HIS IG BELOW *If you are NEW: I hang out in the comments of EVERY new video release for the first while!! So come down and chat!!* The Explore ALWAYS Line will disappear in just a few weeks btw... ALSO: while yochan can’t ship his coffee internationally yet, keep bugging him over on instagram! Haha instagram.com/yoheyaoky
I loved knowing that he's doing well with his business just as much as I loved seeing him rock a MAXIMUM THE HORMONE t-shirt! Yeahhh! His story was inspiring, I wish I had the guts he has! Wow
Absolutely would stay there. Beautiful looking site, would perhaps be more cost effective to pull the school down and build an Alpine hotel or a traditional Japanese compound than to keep renovating a dilapidated school though. That said everyone is charmed by their own experience and taste.
Yohei's story was one of my favorites. Such a laid back one day at a time lifestyle away from the stress of normal everyday 9-5 life. Sad to hear he may no longer be there but truly happy that his passions have come to fruition and he's moving forward with his goals and aspirations. Good luck on your future endeavors Yohei!
@@littlebigkickerHe moved an hour away so he can come back anytime and the school works as a hotel and cafe of sorts so he has staff to run it if I'm not mistaken
Said it before, I'll keep saying it: that guy is an actual example of the right attitude. Hats off to him, here's hoping he finds success in whatever he decides to tackle next, and that he's happy doing it.
"Said it before, I'll keep saying it" what's going on here I have genuine questions seriously you said about this guy before that he has the right attitude? like on another video about this same man? or in the same comment section? also, what do you mean you will "keep saying it"? are there more videos coming out of this man where you will comment on? and lastly, does this man play a large role in your life or something? I'm genuinely confused about what's going on
@@qdpqbp I said it in previous videos he was a part of, most likely I'll have reason to keep having the same opinion when he shows up again sometime in the future. And no, it's not like he plays a large role in my life or anything, but his general attitude is inspiring to me. I've been stuck in a job I fucking hate for 10 years, as well as in other aspects in life, so what this guy has been doing with his life really is inspiring. I'm actually about to jump ship from my job, and stuff like this played a part in giving me the final push to do so.
When he tossed you you the keys to his place so casually and then left, the bond and the trust between you two and secure friendship is so heartwarming. ❤
Yohei speaks English REALLY well. How sweet it was of him to trust you the way he did with what he gave you at the end there. I can't wait to see what new adventures come out of the new opportunities you and he both have before you now.
@@TokyoLens I could be wrong...But has it really been three years since the last time you went there? Because the video before this one states that it was uploaded three years ago. As for what you said, very much so (was it pure luck? Or was it something that you had already nailed down on beforehand?).
Thank you for the update about Yochan! I like the way he speaks in Japanese as he has very poetic style to express his thoughts. And not to mention he has no hesitation to change his directions with his intuitions which is very inspiring!☺️✨
Thanks for always watching!! Despite being busy making your own vids I just checked, and it looks like you released a vid today too eh! Looks interesting~ Ill try to check that out later
I was ready to cry but I'm happy that this school will not be abandoned again and that I can go get some of his coffee just an hour away! I wish him nothing but the best!! 💜 Much love from Arizona 💜💜
This was such a nostalgic bomb for me. I loved the very first video and it cast a spell on me. Often times daydreaming about the lonely man in the mountains, at a school, surrounded by greenery on all sides and a night sky to die for. Roasting coffee, playing music and just cruising along to his own tune. Then you went back and it was just as remembered and kept going back. Yo-chan is an awesome guy and I'm glad you've made such a steadfast friend in him.
I love how Yo upgraded so much of the school - except the clocks. It’s like time just stopped in this remote hideaway! Also seems like he has a good streak of entrepreneurship and business and I hope the school continues to be alive.
end of an era. I remember your first video about him as if it was yesterday... Time flies scary. I will blink again and it will be 2028 soon.. Thank you Norm, glad to be an viewer of this journey. Makes me really emotional.. Wishing the best for him and you.
People who have the ability to just adapt and seek these kind of changes in their lives are so amazing to me. I’m very change adverse but seeing stories like Yo-chan’s help me realize that not all change is bad. Maybe I need to find my own abandoned school in the forest 🥰
That key toss broke me. The place means a lot to him, and to share it like that says a lot about the friendship that developed between you two. Even if the school is no longer the focus please do many more videos with Yochan! I'd love to see you two explore together.
It's heart warming to know an abandoned school is now being used again and providing jobs. It looks so vibrant and with all the renovations he did. And I admire that he never changed and wants to live his life to fulfill his peace and happiness while giving back to the community. He's an inspiration!
It's good to see a video with Yo-chan again after all this time. Whilst the old school must be a lovely place to live, and filled a need for him, it's good that he's been able to move on with his life rather than just stay still
Yochan has to be one of the most interesting people for me that you have introduced us to. The freeness of his spirit and willingness goes with what he sees is his flow in life is amazing. I always end up smiling watching video with him in it.
This is so bittersweet, but more sweet than bitter. You hit it right on the nose when you said change is hard. It doesn't feel like any time has really passed since starting this. Then all of a sudden, that chapter is over, and it's on to the next. It truly goes to show that you should always enjoy life. Taking the time to stop and smell the roses, makes some of the best memories. That's what these videos of the school and Yohei have been.
He's got a lot of stuff changing but he seems so happy with all of it. Also him giving you the keys was really kind. Good luck in all you do in the future, Yohei!
Aw man, I remember when I first ran into your videos about Yo-Chan. I'm glad to see he is well and happy though! Thanks for these videos ya do! I hope whatever he continues to pursue in life, he continues to do so the way he always has been. It's honestly been heart warming to watch these!
Norm, I always appreciate the connections you make with people and how through you we viewers have gotten to know people across the world in these videos. Love the slices of life 😊
He took a leap and it worked out beautifully. Found his place, which allowed him to follow his passions and do the things he actually wants to do. And look where he's now. You love to see it. I wish I had an ounce of courage and willpower Yo-chan has. But I'm very happy for him. Stories like his are the ones we should be talking about. Best wishes to both of you!
This video was truly inspiring. It is incredible how this man is able to live life so free to follow his interests with a contrast of peaceful solitude and interacting with a customer facing business of a coffee stand. The fact he can appreciate the contrast between the two shows how powerful balance is in the pursuit of happiness.
Yochan is really inspiring! Thank you Norm for the updates. A chapter ends and a new one begins for him! Also, thank you for sharing all kind of Japan stuff Norm!
I think he became fully human. he lives life in a relaxed and peaceful manner. not afraid of the future and dare to do what he really wants. I hope one day I can be like him. 😊
You’re a very good interviewer. You always let people talk and the occasional noises of interest and you’re listening. Just wanted to say nice job! :). Good luck to him on his coffee business!!!!
the amount of different shots Norm set up is wild, like you don't notice it really because it all flows so well and seamlessly but I can't imagine the amount of effort that went into getting all of the shots for this video while maintaining that seamless flowing feel
Love that man. Love his story. May many lost souls find there way to his school to replenish, work the earth , and find their passion to be let loose again. A few will stay, many will be healed, and may we all respect that stopping to heal, is a gift.
I think the first Tokyo Lens video I watched was the one with Yo-chan so it’s feels so nostalgic to see him again. He’s genuinely happy with his life and it inspires me to try and find my passion as well ❤
Honestly one of the most inspiring people, proof that not every thing we do needs to be big but if every time we do something with good intentions an insurmountable growth happen. Yohei! You are an inspiration and thank you for sharing your stories with the world ❤
While change is always hard, I am glad Yo-Chan is living his best life while also preserving the school. It's nice that this place got a second lease on life instead of being torn down and forgotten.
Yes! Thank you for following up on Yohei! I always found that video the most amazing part of your channel, his story is what we would all want to do at one point. I have never been there, but have been told Kagawa and Takamatsu are beautiful (Udon capital). I will go out there and visit when I get the chance, Shikoku has been at the top of my list for travel destinations for a while now. Thanks again for your videos, man. Cheers.
Yohei really turned the school into such a beautiful place. The way you two first encountered each other and then formed an amazing friendship feels like it's straight out of a movie. Thank you for sharing Yohei's story! The way he lives his life is inspiring.
Thank you for the update on Yo-chan! I've been wondering how he was getting on. So glad to hear his coffee has been successful and he has a new chapter starting for him. It's so nice that he's got the best of both worlds: those lush green mountains and a town by the ocean.
He listens to his inner voice and that is exactly what you are supposed to do looking at it in a spiritual way. It has saved me from disaster many times. Thank you Norm, hug you tight ❣
You the places you go and the people you meet are just beautiful. It's a joy to watch your videos, i look forward to it after a hard day of work and it makes me so happy.
Just stumbled on this channel and the very last one with the changes. Yohei is amazing! And I speak from experience living the dream in a 100 year old kominka my wife and I are reforming in Yamanashi. Giving up Tokyo city life we've never looked back. Following our passions, she interior design, photography, cooking among many others. Me farming, writing (2nd book) cycling in the mountains and teaching to the local this is it and what I call Life Two Point Oh!
@TokyoLens I truly love seeing the journey you've been making over the years as a content creator. Truly a heartwarming way to express the passage of time, friendship and genuine happiness for others' success on following their dreams. Keep up the good work ☺👌🏻
I'm happy to see Yochan thriving and chasing his dreams. It feels like just yesterday when you posted the video of your first encounter with him. Seeing him is also inspiring, making me want to start looking towards my own future and aspirations.
3:26 I laughed at you when you banged your head. I've done it so bad I had to go to the ER. Blood everywhere. From the same type of School doorframe no less. When I came back to the states after a long while, I had people asking me "I've notice you duck when you come into every room... WHY!?!?" The doors were clearly over 7' but I just couldn't break the habit of ducking.
Yohei's view on life & what's really important has always been such an inspiration to me. It's kind of sad that there won't be any more videos from an abandoned school in the mountains, but I wish him all the best. If he's got something even BETTER lined up than the lifestyle I've admired so much from a distance, then I can't wait to hear about it.
Thankyou Norm for the update. I wish Yo-Chan a bright future in his next adventure. As for you Norm continue your own journey and keep being you. Your content and work ethic has inspired me to learn more and branch out for myself ,so thankyou for that as well. Stay well!
Was lovely meeting you last week! You could not have been any nicer and kinder, as we saw you were in a rush and still made time to stop and say hello!
Yohei is such a kind and generous soul. I'm glad you got to meet him and share his story with us. While this feels slightly bittersweet, I'm happy that he is having success with his passions, and can still enjoy the school as well as his beach side lifestyles. Wishing only the best for Yo-chan!
My heart melted when Yo-chan mentioned that he was moving to a place facing the ocean as it reminded me of my own feelings thinking about my hometown whenever I want to visit once more for a change. I wish Yo-chan all the best for his next adventures going forward!
I only recently found your channel thanks to a friend, and ended up watching many videos, including all the ones about Yo-chan, so for me they are all still very fresh memories. Seeing the title was quite shocking, let alone the video, but thinking about how he has lived there for nearly 10 years, achieved so much, and like he said still can always come back is just amazing! I've often thought of him throughout the weeks, and how awesome it is that he managed to become an expert in coffee and even begin selling it to nearby towns! Personally I am horrible with change, recently a lot has changed in my life aswell and I haven't been great at dealing with it mentally or physically. Hopefully one day I can find my passion like Yo-chan did, and be as open to change! He's inspiring for sure, and I wish him nothing but the best in life. Thank you for showing so many stories throughout your channel, many of which people never would've heard of.
My most fav ep on your vlog is always on yo-chan's story.. and watching this really gives a divided feelings.. emotional and understanding.. good luck in everything yo-chan
Oh god, this is by far the most touching video on the channel. Makes me nostalgic for the things I never had... And it's less about the school, and more about the determination to follow my passions
Awesome video as always Norm. Yo-chan is such a awesome dude his living the dream deep in the mountains surrounded by peace and quiet and nature all around the school. And he's Coffee looks delicious.
this was an amazing video. so glad to see how far Yohei came with going with his passions. can't wait to see where he goes from here! thanks for sharing!
This has got to be the best vids so far for me in your channel.. kinda sad that you-chan is slowly moving out of there but glad to see and have known his story!!! Hope to see more of this
From this video, I would say Yohei's life is getting better from the first time you met him, his daily life in this abandoned school maybe ends, but he moved on to a better one, man has been living on his dream this past three years
I love when people follow their passion and start something that they love from scratch. That’s true entrepreneurship! I am very happy for him that his business took off to the point where he can move up to the next level🙌
The first video you did with Yo-Chan was why I subscribed to your channel, such an inspiring and interesting guy, it’s easy to see how you’ve become friends over the years. It’s fantastic that he’s being able to live the life he wants in such beautiful areas. The fact he’s also employing others and bringing them into his ‘vision’ is also great. Definitely not the end and I look forward to seeing where life takes both him and you Norm. Thank you for sharing this excellent video best wishes to you from England 🏴🇨🇦🇯🇵
Yohei’s freedom and bravery to leave the conventional and expected path behind to pursue his passion is amazing. It is something I aspire to achieve. Thank you for sharing his story!
These videos with Yo-chan have been some of my favorites. He truly is the personification of living life to the fullest and following your dreams. So happy to see that his path is expanding and what is to come!
Dude is the goat. The way he lives and carries himself is very inspiring. He’s living his life the the full extent & just salute him for keeping steady with his passions and then leading him to prosperity.
thank you for revisiting, i remembered watching this video! he seems like such a kind person, love the way he speaks. I wish him only the best! one day when i visit Japan again wud love to try his coffee in Kagawa!
I didn't watch the first videos during the pandemic where you found Yo-Chan, I only started following the channel later, but when I saw that it was already the 2 or 3 video I had to go and watch the others back and I really enjoyed learning about the story of Yo-Chan and how you became friends, thank you for bringing him news about, I'm happy that everything is fine with him, coffee and a view of the ocean, that's great.
Amazing. This whole adventure and series has been amazing. this is the type of content i love to see about Japan. Heck a movie could potentially be made from his story. I really do hope you stay in touch and revisit again in the future even if he's not at the school anymore. Thank you for the updates.
I feel that Yohei can be my best friend seeing he can be both passionate but also laid back when he needs to be. I wish him all the success in the world.
am a few months behind the video schedule ( sry norm) but this definitely is my favorite type of video on this channel. every video u shoot with yochan is really special and just heartwarming. seeing him live his life with so much simplicity and happiness is just beautiful. u said it in the video, he’s living the life we all want to live. and i think thats really inspiring. now i gotta go back and watch the other abandoned school vids u two made 😂
Awwwwwwww I wish him well, many blessings to him. He is my favorite, he was living the life most of us dream of. And now he's living his dream. Holding space ❤
Wow, I absolutely loved this! So much that I had to see it twice! Very interresting to see him again, and his alternative lifestyle. Would be cool to see more from there and him, from time to time.
I'm so impressed by Yohei. The man's passion and entrepreneurship just seem so effortless, when it obviously must be a ton of hard work, because he's just doing what interests and motivates him.
That's so awesome for him! I actually visited this school during a shikoku trip, but unfortunately Yo-chan wasn't there at the time :( Sad to have missed him, but cool to see him doing his thing!!
I find your videos inspiring. I’ve tried to keep a positive mindset, but when I see how you live I understand just how important that mindset is. It doesn’t matter what I do, it matters how I do it. I’ve watched your videos for years and I know I’ll watch them for years more. Thank you.
your videos are very inspiring to me (and many others), these little stories are nice and these type of videos actually relax. I also appreciated this little update about Yochan!
this series is not even that old and got only like 5 parts but it already feels so nostalgic. i hope there still more videos with him and to the school as well.
Nothing is forever, that is certain. This choked me up. I think Yohei knows he can always come back, and that might have made the transition easier for him. Bittersweet, for sure. Great episode, thank you Norm. ❤️
ahhhh change is beautiful but also brings such an aching feeling of longing for the past. SO happy for this change for him! I feel like yesterday I saw your first video visiting this place!
Glad we got an updated on this! On one hand I feel bad that life took me away from Japan and I will probably not live there but at the same time I am glad I have creators like you to make me see the cool stuff I still wanted to see.
Also, Yo-chan's way of living reminded me of the decision I had to make, after arriving in Japan to work I realised that the people I left back home, mainly my partner, was more important and I took the hard decision to come back. She would've been struggling to come to Japan with work as she had no Japanese language experience and also did not feel comfortable just being supported by me - I don't even know if that would've been possible but if that would've been the path we took I would've tried my best there too. Mainly the long distance would've eaten away at both of us so the hard decision to follow my instinct and feelings took me back and into a new life path.
