Marie Kondo is redefining joy by letting go of perfection
Together with Klook and its latest campaign, The Best You , Kondo had the wonderful opportunity to explore this messier chapter of her life. For the love of travel and welcoming brokenness
Above When Kondo decided to rediscover herself, travel was at the top of her list
Some of you may not know this, but Kondo is Japanese—which is why, for this journey, she decided to return to her roots.
'Now I'm coming back to where it all started, to discover what can spark joy in this new phase of my life through travel and embracing life's beautiful surprises,' says Kondo. She channelled her inner samurai and even danced in a robot suit.
But what resonated with her most was the art of repairing broken ceramics—a traditional technique known as kintsugi . 'I learnt about the beauty in imperfection. It's not about perfection, it's about looking straight at the beauty of what's in front of you.'
Above Kondo journeyed to Japan, her homeland, and fell in love with the art of 'kintsugi'
Above Kondo has always focused on balance and finding joy rather than perfection
Kondo even likened the craft to the cleanliness of her very own KonMari Method, saying, 'Some people have completely different sensibilities, and that is to recognise the beauty of your own house as it is. That is the goal of the Konmari Method, so I was very happy to be able to share the same philosophy.'
See more: Where to do cold plunges in Manila Discovering 'the best you'
Above Balancing motherhood and self-growth, Kondo learns to find joy in every moment
Kondo shared that she has always focused on balance and finding joy rather than perfection. She explained that accepting her own imperfections brought her peace and renewed energy to try new things, and she hopes others feel encouraged to do the same.
Above Kondo expressed her eagerness to try new things and accept life's imperfections
'The best me is a person who always listens to what my heart says and follows it, and knows what sparks joy for me now. I want to always be open to new experiences, to never stop searching for things that touch my heart.' Through Kondo's travel back to Japan, she realised who she is all along—someone who is always eager to learn, to grow and to find beauty in every aspect of life, embracing the evolving nature of joy itself.
NOW READ
7 upgraded travel essentials for the savvy flyer's wellness kit
Why fitness retreats are the new jet-set obsession—here are 5 luxury options to start
7 inspiring wellness books for a grounded, mindful life
Credits
Images: courtesy of Klook
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Tatler Asia
2 days ago
- Tatler Asia
Rediscover the art of Japanese dining at Iketeru with Daniel Liew
Come for a tour of the revamped Japanese restaurant Iketeru with Daniel Liew, more popularly known as Daniel Dines Iketeru at Hilton Kuala Lumpur has reopened its doors, unveiling a rejuvenated and elevated teppanyaki and sushi bar, blending Japanese tradition with modern elegance. Sleek marble and refined wood complement the dining experience, setting the scene for an enjoyable lunch or evening out. The launch of the new concept brings with it two seasonal set menus, designed to exquisitely showcase Japan's finest produce and flavours. The eight-course sushi set menu features a selection of fresh seasonal seafood, while the seven-course teppanyaki set menu is ideal for meat lovers, showcasing a display of live cooking. Read more: We went to Niigata to discover what makes premium Japanese sake Photo 2 of 8 Teppanyaki set menu Photo 3 of 8 Open flame grill Photo 6 of 8 The interior of Iketeru
Tatler Asia
3 days ago
- Tatler Asia
The ultimate guide to the best, most elevated French restaurants in Malaysia, according to Tatler Best 2025
$ $ $ $ | Taman Tun Dr. Ismail Photo 1 of 6 Rack of Lamb (Photo: Instagram / @ Photo 2 of 6 Photo: Instagram / @ Photo 3 of 6 Whole Branzino (Photo: Instagram / @ Photo 4 of 6 Photo: Bref by Darren Chin Photo 5 of 6 Photo: Bref by Darren Chin Photo 6 of 6 Photo: Bref by Darren Chin Must Try Cold Cappelini Aged duck breast Lamb rack Bref by Darren Chin is the perfect restaurant for an intimate night out, with its approachable yet exquisite dishes executed to a high standard. Dishes here are often treated by the Mibrasa charcoal oven or open fire grill, resulting in a charred or smoky finish. The restaurant recently moved to M Resort & Hotel, and is helmed by executive chef Lim Wei Han. Not to be missed here is the cold capellini with a creamy sauce of abalone and ponzu, topped with uni, amaebi, and snow crab. The aged cherry valley duck comes from Penang and is roasted in the Mibrasa charcoal oven before being served with white onion cream and roasted duck bone jus. Bref by Darren Chin Address: 26, Lorong Datuk Sulaiman 1, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur Map Call Hours Web FB IG Taman Tun Dr. Ismail Photo 1 of 6 Aged Duck Breast (Photo: Cassis) Photo 2 of 6 Hanwoo (Photo: Cassis) Photo 3 of 6 Lobster (Photo: Cassis) Photo 4 of 6 Photo: Cassis Photo 5 of 6 Photo: Cassis Photo 6 of 6 Photo: Cassis Focusing on showcasing the best of seasonal produce, the team at Cassis blend modern French and Japanese flavours and techniques that produce a comforting and straightforward dining experience within a luxury setting. Head chef Beh Weng Chia has a sharp eye for detail and an astute palate, having graduated from Le Cordon Bleu in San Francisco, and further honed his skills in acclaimed restaurants across the United States and Europe. He blends his experience and techniques to create dishes that embody his culinary philosophy through a tasting menu dining experience. Cassis Address: 1st Floor, 32A, Jalan Tun Mohd Fuad 2, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur Bukit Damansara Photo 1 of 8 Photo: Chateau Dionne Photo 2 of 8 Photo: Chateau Dionne Photo 3 of 8 Bouillabaisse (Photo: Chateau Dionne) Photo 4 of 8 Souffle (Photo: Chateau Dionne) Photo 5 of 8 Capellini (Photo: Chateau Dionne) Photo 6 of 8 Photo: Chateau Dionne Photo 7 of 8 Photo: Chateau Dionne Photo 8 of 8 Photo: Chateau Dionne Must Try Cold Capellini Foie Gras Soufflé Sit at Chateau Dionne's counter and enjoy watching the team of chefs at work, plating up contemporary French dishes. The menu changes seasonally, but is rooted in French techniques, thoughtfully curated by executive chef Andy Choy. The ambiance of the restaurant is elegant yet cosy, and service is smooth. Don't leave without trying the signature soufflé, which is a favourite that guests return for, served with vanilla ice cream and orange marmalade. Chateau Dionne Address: 24G, Jalan Medan Setia 2, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur Map Call Hours $ $ $ $ | Taman Tun Dr. Ismail Photo 1 of 6 Photo: DC Restaurant Photo 2 of 6 Photo: DC Restaurant Photo 3 of 6 Abalone (Photo: DC Restaurant) Photo 4 of 6 Photo: DC Restaurant Photo 5 of 6 Photo: DC Restaurant Photo 6 of 6 Photo: DC Restaurant Awards 2025 Tatler Best 20 2024 Tatler Best Asia 100 Restaurants Must Try Echo of the sea Abalone with miso cured egg yolk sauce, smoked shiitake and harissa Basque stlye grilled whole turbot with a 'choo chee' curry sauce Inspired by seasonal ingredients, DC Restaurant expresses the diversity of different food cultures, blending both local and global flavours. The restaurant impresses year after year, and its phenomenal attention to detail and consistency deserves applause. A favourite dish many return for is the Echo of the Sea, an umami-laden dish of cold angel hair pasta with sweetness from uni, shrimp, and mud crab. The Basque-style grilled whole turbot exemplifies how quality ingredients shine, served with choo chee curry sauce and bue kee wild rice salad. Save space after your meal, as the cheese trolley with 20 choices should not be missed. DC Restaurant Address: 44 Persiaran Zaaba, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur Map Call Book Web $ $ $ $ | Kuala Lumpur Sentral Photo 1 of 8 Seafood (Photo: Entier) Photo 2 of 8 Sweetbread & Mustard (Photo: Entier) Photo 3 of 8 Prawn & Avocado (Photo: Entier) Photo 4 of 8 Photo: Entier Photo 5 of 8 Photo: Entier Photo 6 of 8 Photo: Entier Photo 7 of 8 Photo: Entier Photo 8 of 8 Photo: Entier Awards 2025 Tatler Best Malaysia: Best Pastry Chef 2025 Tatler Best 20 Known for French fare that uses quality seasonal produce, Entier effortlessly impresses with its creative dishes that are executed to perfection. The dining space is tasteful and comfortable, and service is top notch. The restaurant celebrates the joy of dining and drinking communally, paying homage to food growers, suppliers, and wine producers. Whether you are hosting a business lunch or visiting for a special occasion, guests are assured of a good time. Entier French Dining Address: Level 41 at Alila Bangsar, 58 Jalan Ang Seng, Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur Map Call Book Hours Web $ $ $ $ | Penang Photo 1 of 2 Photo: Restaurant au Jardin Photo 2 of 2 Photo: Restaurant au Jardin Awards 2025 Tatler Best Malaysia: Restaurant of the Year 2025 Tatler Best 20 2024 Restaurant au Jardin Must Try Grand Caviar au Jardin Cognac & Hay Aged Duck Aged Local AA Graded Dairy Cow Restaurant au Jardin boasts terroir-driven cuisine with a fantastic fusion of local ingredients. The team is warm, personable, and knowledgeable, and attention to detail is apparent in every aspect of the dining experience, which aims to celebrate the rich tapestry of flavours Malaysia has to offer. When it comes to flavours and ingredients, chef-proprietor Su Kim Hock's dishes always deliver, as he enjoys collaborating with local producers and purveyors. A highlight is the signature Cognac and hay-aged Penang-bred duck, which is roasted to perfection and is currently paired with fermented guava, guava purée, and Sichuan pepper. Restaurant au Jardin Address: Hin Bus Depot, The Warehouse, 125, Jalan Timah, 10150 George Town, Penang Map Call Web IG $ $ $ $ | Penang Photo 1 of 4 Crispy Scale Marble Goby (Photo: Restaurant Blanc) Photo 2 of 4 Forest Log dessert (Photo: Restaurant Blanc) Photo 3 of 4 Hokkaido Scallop (Photo: Restaurant Blanc) Photo 4 of 4 Photo: Restaurant Blanc Must Try Hokkaido Scallop Crispy Scale Marble Goby Forest Log Nestled in historic 100-year-old colonial heritage building Macalister Mansion, Blanc offers contemporary French cuisine with subtle Asian influences, a nod to the culinary landscape of Penang. Popular for not only their sit down dinners, but also intimate celebrations of all calibres, at Blanc guests can look forward to a seasonal menu with surprise dishes. The philosophy behind their approach to cooking is more of a canvas of artful expression and experimentation, which is what you can find with chef Benny Yeoh at the helm. Restaurant Blanc Address: 228 Jalan Macalister, Macalister Mansion, 10400 George Town, Penang Map Call Book Hours Web Chow Kit Photo 1 of 5 Sea Bass a la meuniere with smoked cauliflower puree and duck bacon confit cipolli (Photo: Instagram / @restaurantdominic) Photo 2 of 5 Rhubarb & granny smith apple crumble, honey sabayon & crème anglaise (Photo: Instagram / @restaurantdominic) Photo 3 of 5 Photo: Instagram / @restaurantdominic Photo 4 of 5 Poulet Rôti roasted chicken accompanied by seasonal glazed greens and duck lardons (Photo: Instagram / @restaurantdominic) Photo 5 of 5 Roasted Butternut Squash Soup (Photo: Instagram / @restaurantdominic) Blending Parisian charm with modern sophistication, Dominic offers a refined take on classic French cuisine. Guided by Chef Dominic's vision, the menu stays true to its roots while embracing contemporary touches, featuring carefully sourced European ingredients and artisanal cheeses. The warm, convivial setting—complete with a distinctive blue storefront and elegant interiors—invites guests to indulge in beautifully plated dishes, complemented by a thoughtfully curated wine selection. With its relaxed yet polished atmosphere, Dominic is a Michelin-selected destination where tradition and innovation come together for an unforgettable dining experience. Restaurant Dominic Address: 54G & 56G, Jalan Doraisamy, Chow Kit, 50300 Kuala Lumpur
Tatler Asia
6 days ago
- Tatler Asia
From 'slow matcha' to 'matcha bar': Finding the right matcha in the heart of Saigon
Chakura Matcha Bar – The essence of Japanese matcha Tucked away in a quiet villa enclave in District 7, Chakura resembles a miniature Kyoto. The space resists noise, drawing guests into an atmosphere of stillness and appreciation. Though modest in size, its intimacy is part of its charm, encouraging visitors to leave the world outside and simply breathe. A highlight here is the Maniac Matcha. True to its name, the matcha is intense, so vivid it stirs the senses. It caters to those who seek the purest expression of tea: undiluted, unsweetened, deeply green. For a gentler experience, genmaicha with its comforting notes of roasted rice offers a warm, familiar murmur. Atelier Matcha – The convergence of matcha essence Atelier Matcha is the first outpost in Vietnam of Kyoto's renowned Yamamasa Koyamaen. Arriving at Atelier feels much like entering a contemporary tea salon in the heart of Ginza. Its interiors are bright and elegant, a space that is both refined and welcoming, inviting guests to pause and take their time. See also: Tea: is it a science or an art? Here, matcha is not merely served but celebrated. The tea is ceremonial-grade, sourced directly from Yamamasa Koyamaen, one of Japan's most esteemed producers. Each meticulously whisked cup tells a story through its fragrance and taste, accompanied by delicate wagashi sweets. Atelier's workshops offer a chance to slow down, to reconnect, and to find stillness in every breath of tea. Above Matcha Tiramisu has a mild aftertaste and moderate bitterness, with matcha sauce that adds depth without being overpowering, just enough to elevate the light, smooth mascarpone cream with its subtle richness (photo: ateliermatchavn) Above Matcha Coffee Jelly Shake brings an unexpected blend of bold espresso, silky vanilla ice cream, and delicately chewy coffee jelly. Together, they create a layered and indulgent flavour (photo: ateliermatchavn) Umatcha Se – Unique green taste Umatcha Se presents itself as a 'slow matcha' destination, inviting guests to take their time not just with tea, but with the full sensory experience. More than just a tea shop, Umatcha offers a curated matcha journey, including an 'omakase'-style tasting. Here, each cup is whisked by hand with care and quiet precision. In this way, Umatcha reaffirms that the art of tea remains relevant, even amid the rush of city life. It is perhaps one of the rare places in Saigon that channels the Japanese spirit of matcha in a refined, modern way without veering into excessive formality. Take a seat at the bar, watch the tea maker immersed in their craft, and you may find a quiet stillness within yourself. Tea Space – Peaceful tea ceremony If tea were to be seen as a medium for creativity, Tea Space would be its studio. Thoughtfully curated like an artistic workshop, this is where tea, milk, watercolour, and the artist's hand come together to compose vivid impressions. The shop regularly hosts sessions on matcha drawing, latte art and other crafts, perfect for those who wish to sip while they create. What makes Tea Space distinctive is its openness: guests are encouraged to take part in shaping the beauty they enjoy. Not everyone comes seeking premium matcha, but many leave with something just as lasting: moments of calm and deeply personal memories. Above If tea were to be seen as a medium for creativity, Tea Space would be its studio (photo: tea__space) Above If one morning you find yourself longing for stillness, let matcha show you the way (photo: tea__space) There is no shortage of matcha in Saigon, but the difference lies in how each destination tells its own tale. Some remain faithful to tradition, letting every sip echo the essence of old Japan. Others reinterpret the experience, blending contemporary flair with a dash of the unexpected. So, if one morning you find yourself longing for stillness for something green, something quietly moving: let matcha show you the way.
