I remember a book being read in kindergarten about a nightingale in Japan. I don’t remember the exact story, but the fact that it has stayed with me says something. It was a beautiful picture book with vibrant illustrations and captivating colors. Since then, I have always had an image of Japan in my head, and funnily enough, that image largely corresponds to the reality I experience now. Back then, I never dreamed that I would one day say, “I live in Tokyo.”
A year in Tokyo
Exactly a year ago we left everything behind and left for Japan, without knowing what our life would be like in Tokyo. From the culture shock to learning Japanese and even experiencing earthquakes, I was completely open to it. What an adventure it has become, and how grateful I am for the special moments so far. Here are some of my most memorable experiences from my first year in Tokyo.
My first time in Asia
I still remember the day I arrived in Japan. It was my very first time in Asia. Sure, I had prepared and done some homework, but nothing could really predict reality. In that first week, I couldn’t imagine that one day I would move so easily through one of the busiest subway systems in the world, that speaking Japanese would even become fun, or that I would one day find my way around the Japanese supermarket .
No, I still can’t really have full Japanese conversations, but I can order wine in a bar! Of course, I still sometimes take the wrong subway, and I have to take extra time in the supermarket if I want to prepare something tasty. But I’ve found my own ways to do everything, and it works! Sometimes it goes smoothly, sometimes with a little more effort, but that’s just real life, right?
What a culture shock
I think people who talk about a huge culture shock are exaggerating a bit. Of course there are differences, just like you experience in any other country. The fun part is discovering those differences, and that sometimes makes you appreciate the little things at home.
For example, earthquakes are often a weekly part of life in Tokyo. I experienced one in my first week, and many more followed after that. I have now stopped counting, because eventually you get used to everything.
The Japanese remain a fascinating people for me. I often have to smile at their manners, especially because they act so incredibly polite and approach everything slightly differently than what I am used to. What I think is a shame is that they only really relax and dare to be themselves after a few alcoholic drinks. And as soon as they let go, I try to start a conversation in my best Japanese. Unfortunately, because of my Dutch accent, they often do not immediately notice what I say, which sometimes causes funny situations.
What I love, however, is that the Japanese never really interfere with you. Well, except for a few sweet Japanese grandmothers in the supermarket! They then point to my height, laughing but respectfully, with their hand above their eyes, pretending to peer up at a lighthouse.
Sushi & caviar
In the Netherlands we often associate Japanese restaurants with fancy dining out and high prices. Here in Japan you certainly also have the more luxurious restaurants, but you usually end up in tiny old places that have not been maintained for a long time. For someone with my leg length, that is always a charming challenge. With bright fluorescent light you are picking sushi from the conveyor belt, which is a completely different experience than the image we have at home!
Although I will always associate Japan with that nightingale, I have not yet seen the animal here myself. What I can confirm is that Japan is a colorful country. So, if anyone knows what book I was talking about in my introduction, or where I can find that mysterious bird, I’d love to hear from you!
Would you like to know more about Japan? Here you can read many of my tips about traveling in and through Japan.
