Travel | Chris Nilghe

My Year in Japan

Can you believe it has been one year since I moved from the small town of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan to the Megatropolis of Tokyo? Neither can I. This past year has been quite the growing experience, both professionally and personally. From finding a job in mobile/web development to climbing to the summit of Mt. Fuji. There have been no shortage of challenges. Here is my first year in Japan, in a nutshell.

Landing a Developer Job in Tokyo

Shinjuku at night — Who would have thought a prairie/reserve boy would end up here?

Initially, I came to Japan on a Working Holiday Visa, which allowed me to stay in the country for up to 1 year and do various types of jobs. Before I even arrived in the country I was applying and searching for jobs. Only after 2 months, I landed a web development position. Which was something I was not expecting to happen so quickly.

Now, just under a year I am the Lead Front-End Developer for the Japan team. Who would have thought a small prairie town boy would be playing in the big leagues?

Unique Experiences

Japan has no shortage of things to do. While not every weekend I have been climbing Mt. Fuji, I have tried to keep myself busy by trying out new and exciting things.

One of my best experiences has been climbing (aka trying not to slip and hit my head on the rocks) to the summit of Mt. Fuji. That had to have been one of the most rewarding, yet challenging, experiences of my life. Starting at Station 5 and climbing over night to the summit was exhausting but the view was spectacular. Not everyday you get to say you were on top of a volcano. You would swear that we were in a completely different world.

Mt. Fuji Climbing — This was me thinking about “What have I gotten myself into?”

Mt. Fuji was quite the experience. Not sure if I would want to repeat it though.

Climbing Mt. Fuji — The descent of Mt. Fuji was worse than going down.

Another “only in Japan” experience was my AKB48 Handshake event back in December. Love them or hate them, Idol groups are huge. It was fascinating to experience this event first hand (pun totally intended). Also, I like being able to say I shook hands with some of the members from AKB48.

The fun and beauty that is Harajuku will never disappoint you on a Sunday morning. Especially during Halloween, which is slowly catching on here, you never know what you’re going to see …

Halloween in Japan — Halloween costumes and cosplay are not taken lightly here. At all.

Visiting Hiroshima was a great experience with John. It was a grim reminder of the terrible events that have happened here in Japan. Lets hope that something like this never happens again.

Paid a visit to the Hiroshima Dome. It was quite the site but a grim reminder.

John and I had the chance to attend a Sumo Wrestling Tournament. The arena itself was worth admission. What’s there not to like with oversized almost naked men throwing each other around?

There is always coming happening in and around Tokyo. From Pikachu invading Yokohama to Ultra Japan 2014. A week rarely goes by without something exciting to do.

Pikachus Everywhere — What is Japan without a little bit of Pikachu food? This one was a limited time item for the Pikachu Attacks campaign in Yokohama.

Odaiba Gundam at DiverCity — Care for a little Gundam with your shopping? This huge guy can be found at DiverCity in Odaiba.

Ultra Japan 2014 — One of the biggest electronic music dance festivals was in Tokyo this year!

Seasons

Winter adds for everything in Japan — We are reminded of what season it is and the offerings that come with it. Photo from Tokyo Five

Japan has 4 distinct seasons, and the advertising makes sure you do not forget this. From seasonal drinks to food. You’re constantly reminded that “it’s incredibly hot outside!” or “Man, its freezing you should try this NEW hot coffee”. Summers are hot and humid and the winters are windy, wet, and cold. Spring and Fall are comfortable. The summer humidity took a lot to get used to, and some days I did think “Why am I here? How can anyone live in this?” But, then a quick trip to my nearest 7-11 to get a frozen alcoholic drink quickly reminded me that “Hey, it is not that bad I got alcohol in a bag”.

The beauty that is the sakura (cherry blooms) in the spring is something you need to see in person. Photos do look gorgeous but experiencing them first hand is something everyone should do. We have nothing like this back home in Canada.

Sakura in Japan — We have nothing like this in Canada, so this was a beautiful treat during the spring.

Winters are nothing like back home in Saskatchewan. It does not even get close to -50C here. If it did, I would be concerned since central heating is non-existent. Having a shower in the morning when it is -1C outside is worse than you think it is. Back in February Tokyo got to experience the most snow it has seen in years. The city was a complete mess but I was dumb enough to go venturing out.

Summer in Japan is hot and humid but everyone knows how to stay cool and stylish.

Summer Matsuri — Plenty of summer matsuri (festivals) to take part in. This one was in Yoyogi Park.

More Pikachu — Seriously, you cannot go anywhere without running into them.

Achieving Life Goals

Ayumi Hamasaki at A-Nation 2014 — Ayumi Hamaskai at A-Nation 2014. One of the best days of my life.

Everyone has items on their list they want to achieve or experience before the end. Being here in Japan, I have been able to cross some of those items off the list.

Ayumi Hamasaki in Concert at A-Nation
Experiencing ParaPara at a Nightclub in Tokyo
Holding an Annual Passport for Tokyo Disney Resort
Climbing Mt. Fuji
Sharing Japan with my Mom & friends
Eating at a Maid Cafe

Ok, maybe the Maid Cafe wasn’t exactly a life goal and we just happened to stumble upon it in Akihabara and figured I would include it. I have been a fan of Ayumi Hamasaki since she debuted in 1998 and was one of the many reasons that sparked my interest in Japan. Being able to see my inspiration was nothing short of satisfying.

Meiji Shrine and using my mom for scale.

Mom Enjoying Quality Coffee — Mom has always been a coffee drinker, so I took her for some of the best espresso in Tokyo.

Mom and I at Tokyo DisneySea — I got to share one of my favourite places in the world with my beautiful mom. She loved every minute of it.

Mom takes on Shibuya — Mom takes on one of the busiest and famous shopping areas of Tokyo. Shibuya.

Tokyo Tower Thunder — While visiting the Tokyo Tower, we got to watch a huge thunderstorm roll int.

LOVE in Shinjuku — Mom and I found this huge sign and of course we had to get a photo.

Turning a Hobby into a Serious Thing

A year of Tokyo Disney Resort — Made full use out of my Annual Passport for Tokyo Disney Resort

I have always been a huge Disney fan, so naturally going to Tokyo Disney Resort was high on my list. Recently I changed my “Fat Hobbit” website from talking about various topics on Disney Parks to “TDR Explorer” where myself and a small team publish English information about the resort. I noticed there was a huge gap in English information so I figured, why not turn my hobby into something people can find useful.

Not only do we have a website but also a podcast called TDR Now. The reception has been very positive and has motivated us to continue doing it!

Friends

Moving to another county, it is challenging to find friends. While I cannot say it has not been easy. Getting outside of my comfort zone, I have been able to meet fantastic people! They make those days where I miss home, just a little bit easier. I mean, who does not love having KFC for Canadian Thanksgiving?

Team Fuji Survival — We made it to the top of Mt. Fuji alive. That’s what friends are for right? Ensuring we do not die on a mountain.

Brunch in Tokyo — Mom, Shannon, Hiro, Aya, and I having brunch in Tokyo!

Struggling with Japanese Language

Japanese Language Struggle — Reading and speaking is taking me a while, but I am slowly getting there.

Now, I will admit my Japanese study has slipped since the summer. Meaning my ability has not been improving as much as I would like it to be. I did write the JLPT N4 over the summer, which I sadly did not pass by only a few points. My goal in the next year is to be at least at conversation level. It is my own fault for not studying and speaking as much as I should.

Whats next

Japan, you’ve been quite the experience so far and it is far from over! It is uncertain at this point how much longer I will be here. As I have many good things going for me at the moment. But, I do know one thing. I will be making the most out of every moment.

Full filled one of my goals of being able to see Ayumi Hamasaki perform live at A-Nation 2014.

Tragedies Onboard Tokyo Trains

Typically, my blog posts are uplifting and entertaining. But as for most things in life, it is not all rainbows and Pikachus. As a warning to my readers, this will discuss my witnessing accounts of suicide and accidents involving trains here in Japan. There are NO graphic photos, but what I describe may disturb some. If you do not want to read any further, I totally understand. You can read some of my other posts instead.

Trains are part of everyday life here in Japan. Morning commutes usually result in being pushed onto the train, just so you can fit. Express trains whip past stations at high speeds.

But with all that convenience also comes a dark side – accidents and suicide.

This will not turn into a discussion on how suicide is a problem here in Japan. It has been written about many times over. I will however share my unfortunate experiences witnessing suicide and accidents.

Again as a warning, the next sections will discuss death and going into graphic detail as to what happened. If you wish to not read, please watch an army of Pikachu take over Yokohama.

Narita Express

One of the easiest and fastest ways to get into Tokyo from Narita Airport is the Narita Express. Express trains do not stop at every stop, and they typically don’t slow down as they pass stations they are not stopping at. Sadly, because of this it is rather easy method of suicide.

Many stations do not have guard rails to protect you from falling on the rails. There are yellow lines to stand behind and announcements to tell you when a train is coming. If someone were to fall by accident there are red emergency buttons that will alert staff and the train will hopefully stop in time.

My mom recently visited Japan. Since it was her first time, I went to meet her at Narita Airport and take the Express back to Shinjuku. About 30 mins after being on the train, the emergency brakes came on as we passed a local station and came to a complete stop.

At first, I thought they said that there was an earthquake. So, I pulled out my phone to look up on the Yurekuru App to see if there was indeed an earthquake. Nothing was showing up, so I did not make a big deal out of it. My mom and I continued to visit and talking about all the fun things we will be doing in Japan while she’s be visiting.

About 10 minutes passed and we still had not moved. But we noticed train employees running around on the platform, putting tape across the doors of another train on the oppositie platform to us, as to not allow them to get off the train. We both thought that was rather odd. Again, we thought nothing of it and continued visiting.

A few minutes later police, paramedics, and train staff come running toward our train car and stood outside our window. At that point, we figured something must have happened.

We heard someone let out a loud scream from the car in front of us. My heart sank. I told mom to stay in her seat and I would go see what is happening.

The area of the train where the washrooms and luggage is located was full of people looking out of the window. People were gasping and taking photos. One woman was in complete tears and went back to her seat.

Now, I know I should not have looked, but curiousity got the best of me. I eventually got to look out the window and what I saw, was something I wish no one would ever see.

WARNING GRAPHIC CONTENT

It was the dismembered body of a man wearing white clothing. All I could see was what was left of his torso and leg. The rest was under the train, out of view. There were paramedics already out there beginning to clean up. Small white tarps were laid in seemingly random spots. I quickly realized that these were body parts. Whatever the person was carrying at the time was also scattered about.

Other people were taking photos with their smartphones. An event like this, I do not want to remember, nor have on my phone. So, I did not take any photos of this person who decided to take their life.

Chuo Line Accidents

Kichijoji Station — Source: http://news.retty.me/sweets/kirarina/

The Chuo Line in Tokyo is one of many commuter train lines within Tokyo. On weekdays you are stuffed into the trains like sardines.

I was unfortunate to witness an accident involving a 20-something woman. I was arriving at my station for work and making my way off the platform. As I was walking, I could hear another train lay on the horn. Trains will usually blow the horn as they approach the platform just to warm people, but this horn was drawn out and incredibly loud.

I look over and see this woman fall onto the tracks just as the train was pulling into the platform. My heart completely sank and my first instinct was to hit the emergency stop button that are placed everywhere on the platform. As I was about to hit the emergency button, someone already had pushed it.

The train came to a screeching hault. The sound of metal on metal made my skin crawl. A woman who was standing beside the woman who fell was completely hysterical and who can blame her.

My first instinct, after attempting to hit the emergency button, was to see if she was alright. I ran up to the spot where she fell and looked down onto the tracks. Not knowing what I was going to see.

WARNING GRAPHIC CONTENT

The poor woman was laying face down beside the tracks and only with her arm laying on the tracks. There is an opening under most train platforms, so it looked like she attempted to get out fo the way. Her arm was clearly ran over, as it was broken from what I can tell. The rest of her looked fine, but she was not moving so I was not sure if she was alive. I can still see her laying there, as clear as day. With her lunch and high heel shoes scattered about the tracks.

Paramedics, police, and train staff were running around the platform. Eventually a large tarp was used to block the view of the people who got the woman off the tracks. They had to pull her out from the other side.

When they took her out of the station, they had an oxygen mask on her, so she was thankfully alive. Police were questioning eyewitnesses around the platform, so I stuck around to answer questions if I was asked. They never did approach me.

Closing

While these experiences were not positive ones, they are still experiences. You always hear about suicide and accidents with the trains in Japan. Seeing them first hand is something that I wish not to repeat.

If you or someone you know is suffering from depression, please reach out. There are hotlines available in Canada and Japan.

Accomplishments & Frustrations In Japan

Remember the first time you moved out of your parents house? I’ve had that feeling all over again since moving to Japan. It’s hard to believe it’s only been eight months, and so much has changed in my life. In such a short amount of time, I’ve experienced so much – some of it a result of great planning and organization, and some of it purely by chance. And while most of of my experiences have been positive, it’d be untruthful to say there are no negatives.

Sakura in Kichijoji — Spring in Japan is simply beautiful. Sakura is something that cannot be missed.

I came to Japan with no job and prospects. About a month after landing and a few job interviews, I joined an American-based company’s Tokyo branch in December 2013. It was important for me to find work that was not only in my field, but something I knew I’d enjoy.

It was a gamble coming here without a job but I saved up enough money at my previous job to be able to live, on a strict budget, for about a year in Japan. So, I am very fortunate at how things turned out for me.

Climbing Mt. Takao just outside of Tokyo

There have been challenges – from understanding the immigration process to simple everyday tasks like grocery shopping. Thankfully I have great friends who were able to help me out with things that I had no way of figuring out on my own. Like my air conditioner!

If you have ever learned a second language, then you know the best way to learn is to be completely immersed in it. I have noticed my Japanese has improved leaps and bounds since I’ve arrived. I have gone from barely being able to string a sentence together to being able to express myself (although in the most basic ways possible.)

There is still much work toward becoming fluent, but I’m learning everyday. Besides textbook study, I’ve found ways to work my language skills in to everyday life. Japanese is the language of preference on my iPhone – in fact, I instant message with my Japanese friends only in Japanese. Reading absolutely everything I see. Tokyo has no shortage of advertising so being able to read ads while on the train does help quite a bit. I will look up words to find out how to read it and the meaning. I’ve also been reading Manga comics like Yotsubato! – which, while aimed at elementary school children, is a good way for me to ramp up my understanding of words.

Anime Expo 2014 — No amount of Japanese language ability gets you ready for the crazy outfits you will see inevitably while you are here.

Recently wrote the N4 Japanese Language Proficiency Test, here in Tokyo. It’s the second lowest level of the exam, where N1 is the highest level. The test was a welcomed challenge and motivated me to do more book study, to accompany my speaking skills.

There have been some frustrations and difficulties along the way, which is going to happen. Anything worth doing will have its challenges. One challenge seems unavoidable – when asking someone who works in customer service, such as a food service employee, a question and they reply to me in English. While I do appreciate it, sometimes it throws me off. It feels strange replying back in Japanese after they replied to your question in English. It used to really bother me, because I want to speak Japanese. But, I realize there’s a good chance they don’t realize what I’m trying to do.

Sumo Tournament in Tokyo — You do not need to speak Japanese to enjoy a Sumo Tournament. This was quite the experience.

One thing that I told everyone before I moved was “There will always be a futon for you, so you should come and visit!”. So far three people have taken their opportunity to come and visit. John has been to Japan twice now and cannot wait to come back. My mom and her friend Shannon have visited as well. Mom was brave and stayed for a full month.

Mom, Shannon, Hiro, Yurina, and I enjoying Monjya-yaki near Odaiba, Tokyo!

Don also came over on a Working Holiday Visa and is still currently in Japan. A few more friends are looking at coming in the next few months.

Also have had the chance to reconnect with old friends and classmates. Met with my friend Erina. We graduated together in 2003 back in Canada. Visited my friend Yuki up in Tochigi-ken. We were in the same volunteer group back in 2003, when I was first in Japan. Cannot forget our Host Brother Hiro (pictured above), who stayed with my family in 2005. There are still more friends I need to connect with.

High School Reunion — Reunited with Erina after over 10 years since we last saw each other. Graduated High School together in 2003.

John and Yuki in Utsunomiya — Yuki and John posing with the mascot for Utsunomiya.

Besides learning Japanese there are many other interests and hobbies that have become part of everyday life. One thing I relish is the ability to visit Tokyo Disneyland whenever I get the chance! With my 2-Park Annual Passport I am able to go anytime I wish. As a Disney parks fan, this is a dream come true!

I have also been working very hard on my website, Fat Hobbit, which focuses on travel advice for the Tokyo Disney Resort. It’s aimed at foreign visitors who are looking to make the most of their experience, and has been getting a great reception so far. In fact, it was recently highlighted on a Disney fan podcast!

As an avid gamer, it has been odd not to have my hands on one of the new next-generation consoles back home. With a tiny apartment and a small TV, getting one of the new systems hasn’t been high on my priority list, so my gaming console of choice has been my Nintendo 3DS. I have been enjoying Monster Hunter and Animal Crossing in what little spare time I have. Because games are region-locked on the 3DS, I haven’t been able to buy games here to play on it, but in the next coming weeks I am going to pick up the You-Kai Watch 3DS XL when it is released. Then I can start playing Japanese games, to help improve my abilities even more.

While not playing games, I am exploring all that Japan has to offer. Including see Mt. Fuji from Hakone.

As fun as the experience has been here in Japan, there is a dark side to life as well. I’ve been unfortunate enough to witness two train accidents while I’ve been here. Much is written about them online, and so I won’t dwell on it here, but it is a very unpleasant – yet everyday – part of life in Japan. I’ve also encountered some Japanese people who don’t care for foreigners, but thankfully they are not in the majority. I do not let these experiences ruin anything for me, but take them for what they are — an experience.

Overall, it’s been an exciting eight months here in Tokyo, and I can’t wait to share even more stories in the coming months. Of course, you’re always welcome to come visit. There’s a futon here with your name on it!

Dealing With Homesickness & Culture Shock in Japan

If you have ever traveled abroad for any extended period of time, you know how hard culture shock and homesickness can hit you. Everyone deals with it differently and it shows up at the most unexpected times.

Culture Shock

Fresh Sashimi — Food can be the biggest culture shock. This was still delicious by the way.

Having lived in Japan previously, I am used to most of how things are done in Japan. Granted that was over 10 years ago. Now I am an adult who has to take care of everything myself. If I told you that I did not experience culture shock this time around, I would be lying.

It’s the small things

Shopping in Japan — We easily take for granted being able to do everyday things such as shopping for curtains.

It is not the big things that get to me, such as having to speak Japanese on a daily basis or figuring out the trains. But rather all the small everyday items that really hit me hard. A perfect example is going to almost any coffee shop, Starbucks in particular, you usually have to get a seat before you order. That is if you are wanting to stay. This is not typically the norm back in Canada, so I was not aware of this. The first time I went to Starbucks I went to order and the lovely barista asked me if I was staying. Which I replied with a simple “hai” (Yes). She then asked if I already had a seat. Which I replied with a simple “iie” (No). She then politely explained to me that I must have a seat before ordering, and that I had to wait in another line to get a seat.

While this was a small thing, I was completely embarrassed and felt foolish for not knowing what to do. But, how would have I known? We learn through doing, and when you make a mistake, hopefully, you learn from it and never make the same mistake again. Now when I go into any coffee shop I make sure to have a seat before I order.

Sushi at the Grocery Store — Simple things like reading a label on food becomes a challenge.

Grocery shopping has been quite the challenge. I am particular to what is in my food, so reading labels is something I always did back home. Being in Japan, I am learning quite a few different Kanji (Chinese characters) for ingredients used in food. Grocery shopping becomes much more than a chore since I have to figure out what a lot of the ingredients are. I will admit, I have bought some items not caring what was it in, because I could not be bothered to figure out the kanji for the ingredients. Those are on some of my off days.

The Hobbit Desolation of Smaug in Japan finally comes out in February 2014

Another example are movie releases. Most movies are not released at the same time here in Japan as they are in North America, unless it is a HUGE blockbuster but that rarely happens. You can read my previous post about being a movie geek in Japan. While it may sound completely silly, but when I found out The Hobbit Desolation of Smaug was not going to be released until February 2014, it made me upset. More than something like that should.

I am a huge Lord of the Rings fan and I wanted nothing more than to see it with my best friend, who loves it just as much as I do. Most people would say “Hey, it is just a movie”, which is true. But it was just one of those things you take for granted.

Homesickness

The only time I ever felt homesick was Christmas Day. That was by far the hardest part of this entire journey, so far. We are not a religious family, but not being able to see them Christmas morning hit me fairly hard. Thankfully, technology allows us to see our loved ones even when we are thousands of miles a parts. I woke up very early on Boxing Day, because of the time difference, and was able to see my family over Skype. That was the best Christmas present I could have asked for.

Best Christmas Present — The best Christmas present anyone can ask for. Seeing my family.

It Gets Easier

Living in a different culture does not get easier, you just get better at it and learn. There are still many things I do not know or understand about the Japanese culture, but I am taking every opportunity to learn. Making silly mistakes along the way, but that is the best way to learn. Most people are incredibly polite and understanding.

If you’re enjoying hearing about my lessons learned while living in Japan, then make sure to subscribe.

Tokyo Snowpocalypse Experience

Snow in Tokyo is a rare occurrence, except for February 8th. It was said that this was the most snow that Tokyo has seen in over 45 years. Now, if you’re from Canada or anywhere where snow is the norm during winter, then this will sound like nothing. There has been light snow over the course of winter but nothing like this. Here’s a photo for comparison.

Vending Machine With Snow — The before and after of the vending machine outside my apartment.

I am used to fluffy and dry snow back home, but the snow here was sticky and wet. This made for a slushy mess everywhere. The pathway from my apartment to the train station was nothing but slush and if you were not wearing boots, your feet were going to get soaked.

Slushy Snow in Tokyo — Wet and sticky snow makes for some wet feet unless you’re wearing boots. This is right infront of my apartment.

For those who deal with this every year, then this is nothing. But, Tokyo and the surrounding areas are not well equipped or used to handling such a huge amount of snow in such a short time span. What affects the most people is public transportation. Now, you can call me crazy but I was brave (or stupid) to make my way to Tokyo Disneyland. Since this amount of snow is rare, I had to take photos.

Snow day at Disneyland

Snow at Tokyo Disneyland — There was a ton of snow at Tokyo Disneyland along with adorable Mickey and Minnie Snowmen.

I expected there to be train delays, and going across Tokyo was not bad at all. Granted this was earlier in the day. My train line Keio, was delayed only by half an hour. On the way back from Disneyland, that is a whole other story in itself.

4 Hour Commute Home

Maihama Station train platform completely covered in snow. That train was there for almost 30 minutes.

As a friend and I were enjoying Tokyo DisneySea there came an announcement throughout the entire park. They were warning guests that due to inclement weather, the trains and buses may stop for extended periods of time. They were politely telling us that if you need to take public transportation home, you better leave now.

Not knowing how much of a delay I was going to experience it was in my best interest to start making my way home. When I arrived at Maihama Station, it was completely full with people who were at Disneyland. I waited around the train station for about an hour before the next train would come by. The one train that was going the opposite direction of me was stopped at Maihama Station due to wind, and they were waiting for it to die down before proceeding to the next station.

If you’re unfamiliar with Tokyo Disneyland, it is located in Tokyo Bay. Which means there is a lot of wind.

Finally, after an hour our train, bound for Tokyo, finally arrives. Since there was so many people waiting, you bet the train was crowded just as if it were rush hour on a weekday. The train was packed with people holding onto their Disney purchases, which made it just that much more crowded.

Snow Covered Train Platform Stairs in Tokyo — Employees were constantly clearing the snow.

We slowly make our way towards Tokyo Station, when at the last stop before our destination an announcement comes on. It was telling passengers that Tokyo Station was completely full, and that we had to wait for an undetermined amount of time before we could get to the station. We were advised to transfer to the subway at this stop.

Myself and a couple hundred other people got off the train and made our way to the subway station. We get to the ticket gates and the area was at a stand still. The employees locked the ticket gates because the platform for the subway was completely full and we had to wait for it to clear. Now, I am standing with at least another 200-300 people, all crowded in this tiny space waiting to get through. Not being able to move, literally.

After about 10 minutes the employees open the ticket gates to begin allowing people through. There was such a push to get through the gates that you had no choice but to go with the flow, regardless if you even had a ticket to get through or not. Eventually the employees opened ALL the ticket gates. Since there was such a flood of people, no one was able to either tap their commuter pass cards or insert their tickets. Everyone just went through the gates.

After flowing down the river of people to the subway, I got on and made my way to Shinjuku Station. Once I got to Shinjuku station I transferred to the Keio Line, which was only running local and semi-express trains. Normally there are Special Rapid trains, but not that night.

Nearly Missed Last Train

Too Much Snow in Tokyo — When they said there was a lot of snow, they were not kidding. This is almost Saskatchewan snowfall!

I get on the train and continue on the last leg of my journey home. I had to make one transfer in Chofu before I could get home. When I transferred I noticed that the train I was going to be taking was the last train of the evening. Service was being suspended after that due to weather. It was only 10pm. Normally, the last train from that station is particular is 12:43am.

Finally Home

Grocery Store Covered in Snow — The grocery store in front of the train station looks completely different with all the snow.

Finally, after 4 hours I got home to my station. Normally it is only a 1 hour journey. But, the fun was not over yet. There was so much snow that the area I live in was completely transformed by the snow. It looked like the Apocalypse had hit. All the stores were closed (expect 7-11) and there was wet snow up to your ankles.

Pathway Home — The pathway home was wet and sticky. My already soaked feet got even more soaked.

The pathway to my house was a wet and muddy mess. My shoes got completely soaked. It was only 10pm but there was not a soul in sight. I guess they were the smart ones.

Not Doing That Again

The snow was nice as it reminded me of home. But, I do not want to have to experience this again. Wet and sticky snow is terrible, and I much prefer the white fluffy stuff we get back home in good ole Saskatchewan.

Wet and Sticky Snow in Tokyo Disneyland — Never going out in that type of weather again. Even with a raincoat and umbrella I still ended up looking like this.

Reactions to my Japanese Ability

I do not claim that my Japanese is amazing, because it simply is not. But I do try everyday to speak to at least one person in Japanese, even if it is simply asking how much something is. I am trying though.

Depending on where in Japan you go people will react differently to you when you speak Japanese to them. Some will have a look of relief on their face (I’m guessing cause they think their English isn’t good or non-existent) and some will speak English with you even if you speak Japanese (mainly touristy areas).

My favourite coffee shop is on the way to work and I will stop there a few times a week. The first time I went in there, the employee greeted me and you could see on her face that she was thinking something along the lines of “Oh my god, my English is really terrible what do I say if he cannot understand!?”. Once I ordered, completely in Japanese, you could see the relief on her face.

Another time was in a Shibuya, which is a very touristy area. Being a typical Canadian, I wanted some McDonald’s. So, I went to one close to Shibuya Crossing (they are everywhere much like Starbucks). The lovely girl behind the counter greeted me and I started to order in Japanese. I thought nothing of it. Then when I was done ordering the girl has this look on her face like “Holy crap, seriously you can speak Japanese, that’s awesome!”.

Hatsune Miku — Naturally, there are plenty of opportunities to improve my reading ability.

I find it interesting being foreigner and talking to Japanese people from different parts of the country and/or city. The reactions you get will be vastly different. Which I think it pretty awesome in itself.

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Morning Commute in Tokyo

Everyone has heard the stories about how crowded trains can get here in Tokyo, especially during rush hour. People cramming onto trains and employees pushing people into the trains. I wish I could say that this is an over exaggeration, but it simply is not. Here’s a photo of how crammed it can get on my train on my commute to work.

Where I am located I have the luxury of choosing between two different train lines. One line I can take into central Tokyo, while the other helps me get to work that is north of my location. I take two lines to get to work in the morning, which only takes about 30 minutes total, which is a bonus. The first line is relatively older and during rush hour there are still seats left for people to sit on. Once I transfer over to the Chuo Line, that’s where the cramming begins.

Once the train gets to me, it’s also full to capacity but there are still a couple hundred people at this stop that need to get one. While a few people get off the train, most stay on board. But some how, every morning, we all manage to squeeze onto the train. So much, that I do not have to hold onto any hand rails and I can easily read the article the person in front of me is reading on their smart phone (usually it’s Puzzle and Dragons).

There are a few times where people that have less than ideal hygiene beside me, which can make the train ride rather long, but for the most part everyone just wants to get to work without any fuss. Thankfully I only have to endure the sardine can of a train ride for two stops. Which is nice because I wouldn’t have much choice but to get off the train anyway, since the wave of people getting off there’s not much you can do but go with the flow.

I will admit, I have fallen asleep a couple times while standing up because it was so warm and oddly comfy.

Making Mochi

Mochi is the Japanese food that is traditionally eaten during New Years. It’s very sticky rice that is beaten into a paste in a wooden bowl with a mallet.

On my New Years trip with my friend Hiro to Nagoya, I got the chance to participate in making Mochi A family near the apartment we were staying at was having a family BBQ. They are friends of Hiro’s parents and they invited us over for some Mochi. Two guys were pounding the rice in a wooden bowl while the bother would move the Mochi around each time the mallets were lifted out of the bowl. It was quite the rhythm they had going.

Once they were done, the mother turned to me and asked, in Japanese of course, if I would like to try and help make Mochi. I decided to give the family some comic relief by being the foreigner (that had no idea what he was doing) that would attempt at pounding the Mochi.

While it looked rather simple, it was a lot of hard work. By the end of it all I was sweating and my arms were incredibly sore. But the pay off was worth it, we shared the entire bowl of delicious Mochi. It was put into a soup and also used as a sweet dessert with cinnamon. It was an incredible experience that I soon won’t forget.

Farewell 2013 and Bring It 2014

My obligatory New Years post talking about the past year. However, I do find it quite enjoyable to reflect on the previous year in a few paragraphs. Looking back at your accomplishments, failures, ups, and downs.

2013 was the year I decided to make some huge changes in my life. I realized that I was beginning to become complacent, which is something I didn’t want to become just yet. My move to Tokyo, Japan started in January 2013 when I began the application process for my Working Holiday Visa. April was the month I applied for the visa in Calgary. The visa was granted to me the following week. September I gave my notice at my previous job. Then finally in November I moved to Tokyo, Japan. It was quite the process but all that hard work really did pay off.

Completely uprooting myself from my comfortable lifestyle in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan was the biggest risk I have taken thus far. Did I have my doubts? Of course I did. Did I question myself day in and day out? You bet I did. Were there days that I wanted to give up? I can’t count how many days I felt like that. Thankfully, I have the most supportive family (Hi Mom!) and friends in the world. I couldn’t have done it without you guys, it’s that simple. You’re all a big reason why I made it this far, I don’t think I could have done it without you. So, if I haven’t told you already, thank you.

John and Yuki playing with various items in Village Vanguard.

I never want to be that person who asks themselves “what if?”. After being in Japan for close to three months now, I know I made the right choice. Was this an incredibly risk move? Of course it was. I left my job, family, friends, and comfort back in Canada to set off on an adventure. Now I’m visiting Disneyland every week (damned rights I’m making use of my annual passport), making new friends and reuniting with old, improving my Japanese, and working. Who would of thought that a small prairie boy from Prince Albert, Saskatchewan would be working for an IT company in Tokyo? I certainly didn’t think so.

Hiro, Hiro's Mom, and Me enjoying Sushi in Tokyo — Hiro, Hiro’s Mom, and Me enjoying Sushi in Tokyo

2013 was the most challenging but also the most rewarding year of my life, so far. You never get anywhere unless you are willing to take risks and work your ass off. Opportunities are almost never handed to you, they present themselves after you have put in the work, if you’re willing to do so.

Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan — First time back in Utsunomiya after over 10 years.

In closing, 2013 was an incredible experience. Whatever 2014 has in store for me, bring it.

Random Happenings in Tokyo – Week 2

Another week of random happenings here in Tokyo. If you haven’t read my previous entry then I highly suggest that you do.

Santa?

First up is a piece of graffiti found near Hachiko in Shibuya. I’m unsure of the significance of this sticker. Wonder what the commentary is supposed to be. Clearly Santa isn’t the typical white bearded old man. He’s also not bringing the typical toys to all the boys and girls. This year he’s opted for AK47s and who knows what else I’m really curious to find out what this all means. If I find out, I will for sure let you all know. But, if you happen to know what the commentary is behind this I would love to hear it.

Fresh Sushi

I’m always willing to try new food. Being here in Japan I’m getting many chances to do so. This past week I went to a small traditional Japanese sushi restaurant in Yokohama. The one plate of sushi that was ordered was easily one of the most beautiful plates I’ve ever seen. The sashimi was incredibly fresh and delicious. It was clear that the sashimi came from the fish was that on the plate. The dipping sauce was made from the contents of the fish’s stomach. Normally, this would gross me out but it was fantastic! Little did I realize though, the fish that we were enjoying was still alive. It’s lips were still moving. So, the poor little guy was watching us eat his insides. Now, that’s was something else. Afterwards, the fish’s head was cooked and put into our miso soup. I did not realize this and the head was stuck to the bottom of my bowl, so I didn’t not see it. When I went go sip the soup the head floated to the top and I was greeted with this black eye. It was safe to say it scared the me pretty good. That was quite the experience and the food was great. But having the fish still alive while we ate it was certainly something else. Wonder what next week will bring? You should subscribe to find out.