70-year-old couple saves over 7 million yuan, regrets not traveling while healthy

A Japanese couple, both 71 years old, have amassed a significant nest egg of 37 million yen (approximately $7.27 million TWD) after 45 years of diligent saving. However, they now express deep regret, realizing that their focus on accumulating wealth has come at the cost of experiences they can no longer fully enjoy due to age and declining health.

Masao and Keiko (pseudonyms), who have been married for 45 years, receive a monthly pension of about 250,000 yen and have paid off their mortgage. Despite their comfortable financial standing, Keiko admits to feeling regret when looking at their bank accounts, questioning the purpose of saving so much.

In their younger years, the couple consistently lived frugally. Keiko recalled declining a trip to Europe with friends because the 350,000 yen cost seemed too high, with her husband advising to travel after retirement. Masao also postponed buying a desired camera for photography, believing there would be ample time for hobbies later.

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We saved all our lives, the money is left behind, but our health and the time we could move are gone.

Life, however, did not follow their plan. After Masao retired at 65, Keiko had to care for her ailing mother, delaying their travel plans. Later, Masao suffered a knee injury, making extended walking difficult. The destinations they once dreamed of now require more physical stamina, and long flights have become burdensome. Furthermore, the costs of flights and accommodation have significantly increased since their youth.

They now lament that while they saved enough money, they missed the "best time to travel when they had the most energy." Experts emphasize that retirement happiness involves more than just financial assets. While saving is crucial for future security, it is equally important to invest in oneself, family, health, and experiences while one still possesses the vitality and time to enjoy them.

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We don't know how much money we will need after retirement, let's travel after retirement.