Now Departing for Tokyo, Japan
For the first week Patrick and I were in Japan we did all our shopping at a 7-Eleven. We weren't sure where the nearest grocery store was - and we didn't know anyone to ask. We bought everything at that 7-Eleven. Body wash, cereal, razors, condiments. People use the word "overwhelm" when talking about a transition into a new country. For me, the sensation was closer to shock.
Today I'm heading back to Japan for the first time in about two years. Joel has never been and I'm excited to serve as a guide for him. In the three and a half years I lived in Japan, I only came back to the States once. And that was to do yoga teacher training. A month after visiting the States we opened the yoga studio in Yokohama.
And now here we are, four years since we opened the studio. I don't think I'll do all my shopping at a 7-Eleven this time around. As a travel gift Joel gave me a 50mm lens for my Canon. So click on the icons on the left-hand side of the site to follow photos and posts as they unfold, fresh from Japan.
Been to Japan? Love Japan? Let me know your favorite places and things to do. My schedule is wide open except for some yoga sessions, and I'm open to your suggestions.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Reader Comments (6)
Thus the term "culture shock". Have fun and travel safe.
Hey Gwen -
Here's to safe travels.
What company did you work for when you were teaching in Japan? I'm currently in Fukui Prefecture, 3 months into my 1st year with the JET Program, and lovin' it so far.
Enjoy your flight!
Austin
Gwen,
Safe travels and have fun. I'll be tuned into ZIS for updates and details.
Kyoto is my favorite. Was there just two weeks ago. The sub temple Koto-in on the grounds of Daitoku-ji is amazingly peacful, with all its moss and maples (which by the way should be turning colors soon). It is in the northwest part of town. Short walk from Kitaoji station on the Karasuma line of the subway (north from Kyoto station). The Philosopher's Walk from Nanzen-ji to Ginnkaku-ji is also incredible and the two temples on either end of the trip are also beautiful. There is so much to do and see in Kyoto -- it is truly an incredible place.
Food is great in Kyoto also -- lots of diversity. Kushya is in an interesting place north and east of the station between near the intersection of Sanjo and Kawaramachi (I hope it is still there though -- their website is down). ;-(
All the best to you, Joel, Patrick and your fellow travelers!
Scott
Hi Gwen,
Tokyo Art Beat covers the information on art&design events and exhibitions in Tokyo and surrounding areas. You'd find something interesting here, I believe.
Perhaps you might already be booked for yoga or something else on those days (I know you are on 25th! I'll probably be there!), but Tokyo Design Festa will take place in Odaiba on 24th and 25th of October. I think it's worth checking out.
Cheers,
Masafumi
Love, love, love Japan. Had my first trip there in Dec '08. We did Nagoya - Kyoto - Tokyo - Yokahama.
The place that struck me most was the Shinto Shrine Fushimi Inari in Kyoto. Ahmahzing.
Scariest place - going up that giant ferris wheel in Yokahama!!
Clare Yep, not the biggest fan of riding the ferris wheel, myself! Kyoto is gorgeous but we might give it a miss this time since it's a big time commitment. But yes, one of the most incredible places on Earth.