JoeKochin

Hi, I’m Kochin!

My official handle is JoeKochin, but you can just call me Kochin!

I was born and raised in Hiroshima, but I’ve been living in Osaka for so long now that it feels like home. Osaka’s vibrant and quirky energy suits me perfectly.

🌱 My Hobbies & Interests

I’m a passionate gardener, especially when it comes to succulents (Echeveria and Agave) and carnivorous plants. I even grow agaves from seeds—watching them develop is such a joy!

Since I was a kid, I’ve been obsessed with stationery and crafting. While I may not be the most “skilled” artist, I love getting lost in creative projects while listening to music.

🖋️ Stationery I Love

○Paper goods: memo pads, notebooks, letter sets, postcards ○Stickers ○Washi tapes ○Origami and decorative papers

I have a tendency to collect things that catch my eye. Recently, I’ve been diving into vintage and retro designs and even enjoy exploring antique markets for unique finds.

🎨 Collage & Creativity

I’ve recently fallen in love with collage art. It’s not just about creating—sometimes I just enjoy admiring and organizing my materials. Vintage and retro designs, Japanese wagara (traditional patterns), and bird motifs are some of my favorites. I also adore anything with interesting textures and patterns.

🎵 Music is Life

Music is a big part of who I am. My taste is all over the place—I simply listen to what I love on repeat. Some unforgettable moments include crying from sheer joy at live performances by Red Hot Chili Peppers, Bad Religion, and Måneskin.

🕵️‍♀️ Curious About the World

I’m drawn to documentaries and real-life stories that tackle topics often considered taboo or sensitive in society. True crime, social taboos, and stories about marginalized communities fascinate me. There’s something so raw and thought-provoking about the unfiltered reality of these narratives.

Fantasy elements often don’t work for me—once I hear “based on a true story,” I’m hooked. The grittier, the better!

🌍 Sharing Japan & Subculture Love

I guess you could say I’m into “quirky” or “alternative” subcultures—kind of like a stereotypical Japanese subculture girl, if you know what I mean! I also love answering questions about Japan. It’s exciting to hear what surprises people about my culture, and it often makes me see things in a new light.

Joining swap-bot is my way of broadening my horizons, sharing my favorite things, and connecting with like-minded people from all over the world!