Off to Japan!


Off to Japan!

The process of getting to Japan began halfway through my last year of university. The fact that my plane left on the morning of September 11, 2001 ensured that the trip would be eventful.

 

Each of the following sections is constructed from key correspondence sent at the time.


Preparation

Preparation

Several days before departing for Japan, the only thing on my shopping list was 'pants.'

Arrival

Arrival

Thanks to 9/11, the first thing I had to do when I got to Japan was assure everyone that I was still alive.

Settling

Settling

Getting lost, getting cash, getting 'gaijinned,' and getting used to the fact that students don't always want to talk.


Halloween Party

Halloween Party

Meeting people and trying to flex the gaijin muscle, with ambivalent results.

Very Bad Day

Very Bad Day

My first awful day at work is tempered by the Rodin exhibit at the Shizuoka Museum of Art.

Next Level

Next Level

Once I settled in, it was time to look for a different kind of work.