Racing to a Tokyo agency, we’re swallowed by the subway crowd, feeling like sardines in the bustling metropolis. Navigating this, reality hits with the contrast: hurried contemporary world versus the thoughtful, melancholic atmosphere reminiscent of Belgium.
In our haste, we strive to reach the agency in time to avoid further administrative hassle. Skipping irrelevant details, we squeeze into the crowded subway during rush hour, feeling like canned sardines. I hold my breath to make room, with a push to close the door. Thankfully, it’s just two stops, and upon arrival, we dash to the dreary administrative building. Being late is unacceptable in Japan. Thomas curses his morning procrastination, nearly causing tardiness. I hurry after him, the November sun shining on my face; Tokyo sees sunny days almost daily.
Back in time
Panting, we enter the gloomy building just before half past eight and realize no English signs are displayed. Without coverage and with Google Translate malfunctioning, helpful Japanese guide us to the right place. Seated in the extremely unpleasant waiting area with black folding chairs, we feel as if we’ve landed in a corona test center. Following the entire morning ritual due to our punctuality, we observe everything being set up and put in the right place, including a CD playing triangular music reminiscent of a horror movie. Despite Thomas’s explanation of the delay, we endure a 30-minute wait before being summoned, only to receive apologies for the delay. With our friendliest smile, we comply with the gentleman behind the desk, and soon the task is completed.
Japanese lifestyle
Outside we part ways.Thomas blends into Tokyo’s salarymen crowd. I head home, reminiscing about Antwerp, bureaucracy included, dodging morning rush hour.
Read more about my daily life in Tokyo here!
