TOKYO: Suburbia

Well its been nearly two weeks since my last post, and there is a purely acceptable reason for that. I have been ridiculously busy. Since my past blog I have moved into my new apartment, begun the furnishing process, and started work at Kamifujisawa Junior High School as an English teacher. It has been a whirlwind two weeks. Here are some of the highlights:

1.) Moving from Sakura Hostel in Asakusa (Eastern Tokyo) to Musashifujisawa (West of Tokyo). This was a heck of a haul, especially since I was traversing some of the busiest stations in the world with heavy suitcases in tow.

2.) Starting work and giving my first introductions. This was an interesting experience, as I gave a speech to the students I will teach this year, talking a bit about myself, where I'm from, etc., etc. My students have a wide range of English ability-from almost none to quite good, so this added to the challenge of getting to know them and introducing myself. But overall it has gone well thus far.

3.) Getting my first Japanese apartment. Now this had been an experience. My apartment is SMALL, but it is considered quite large by Japanese standards. I have a very small bedroom with a matching Japanese futon, a living area the same size, a kitchen, laundry area, bathroom and shower/bath area. Now before you start imagining how big an apartment of this description should be, take that thought and divide it at least in half. Then you might have my apartment size down. The cool thing about the apartment is its traditional Japanese style, with tatami mats in the bedroom and hardwood in the other areas. As you walk around the apartment *ducking often) you can't help but think that you're living similarly to how the Japanese lived in the past-but with running water and electrical outlets, of course.

4.) Exploring Saitama (the region I now live in), has also been an enjoyable experience. The area is very eco-friendly and green. Really. Its actually green. The area is known for its green tea fields, and as I look out from the classroom while teaching I can see lush fields of green stretching out before me. The cherry blossoms are still in bloom here as well, having departed Tokyo over a week ago. The other day I took a nice leisurely bike ride along the fields and residential areas and found a quaint bakery aptly named "Bakery Cozy." I relaxed while enjoying a freshly made sandwich and bread along with green tea-as I looked out of fields of the same.

Musashifujisawa may only be 35 minutes away from Tokyo, but it certainly feels much further away. The frenetic buzz and bright lights that never seem to fade in the city is definitely not part of Saitama's image. Instead, quiet residential areas, school, parks and restaurants replace skyscrapers, billboards and jumbotrons. At first I was wondering if I would like living in "the burbs" but to be quite honest, I think it will be quite enjoyable.

I will check back in later to let you know for sure.

Kyoto and the West

Well, I just returned from Kyoto, Osaka and Kobe, and I have to say, the West of Japan is amazing. Often considered the most authentic an culturally rich region of Japan, I was skeptical of such verbiage until I actually experienced it for myself. Kyoto was amazing in many ways. from spotting Geisha at dusk on ancient cobblestone corridors to enjoying the cherry blossoms in Gion, Kyoto never failed to impress. Even the people of Kyoto were accessible and friendly (as noted in Kyoto Unplugged, which can been viewed on Facebook). While the cultural and UNESCO world heritage sites of Kyoto are truly breathtaking, I also take away from the experience the camaraderie of its citizens, culinary delights of its chefs and the creativity exhibited in its architecture.

One of the most memorable memories I have of Kyoto is the food. Fresh Soba at a stand up counter during rush hour. Genghis Khan Style lamb stir fry coupled with conversation with the locals. 100 yen Sushi that tasted wonderful. And this barely scratches the surface.

Equally magnificent were the must-seee sites of Kinkakuji (the Golden Pavilion), heian Shrine (with its adjacent garden) and the Path of Philosophy. Arishiyuma with its cherry blossoms and Nijo castle at night were also highlights that must be experienced only during late March/early April when the cherry blossoms are in bloom and the citizens of Kyoto (and the rest of Japan) are enjoying them in mass.

The nightlife of Kyoto was also enjoyable. While Tokyo, with its frenetic pace can quickly become tiring, Kyoto was more relaxed (though not quiet or boring). I enjoyed meeting local restaurantiers and bartenders who were quick to introduce themsleves and recommend places in their city t visit and hang out.

Overall, I definitely recommend a trip to Kyoto, regardless of the season. Obviously, Spring is the best time to go, but Autumn is a close second. Winter is a mystical time of snow falling on ancient temples, and onsens (hot springs) can be enjoyed regardess of the temperature. Summer is also a nice time to enjoy Kyoto's many publci places and parks, as well as its restaurants and night time options.

Well, that's all for now. I will post soon about my experiences in Osaka and Kobe, as well as more information on Kyoto. If you will travel to Japan soon, or are curious, let me know, or respond to this post.

-Dave