Just Call Me 'Sensei'

Today was pretty laid back. I woke up to fabulous sunny weather. Sunshine always seems to get me in a happy mood, so I knew that today had to be a good one. I stopped in to one of my favourite little shops (that is conveniently in my neighbourhood) to pick up a couple of things I had planned to come back for (see previous blog). The girl working in the store noticed the Canada flag pin I was sporting and asked if I were on holiday. I told her that I am studying at Keio University on exchange, then she asked me if I knew anyone that could teach her english. I was ecstatic! A part time job is something I have been considering since I arrived and this was the perfect opportunity; it's really amazing how things fell into place. I will be teaching her english lessons privately for 3500 yen/hour a few times a month ($35/hr). Now I just need to make some lesson preparations, she is a really sweet girl and I certainly want to make sure she gets her money's worth! When we made plans to meet for our first 'lesson' she made a note in her agenda that referred to me as 'Tory Sensei' (Sensei meaning: Teacher). I think it has a nice ring to it...

I decided that today's plan would consist of accomplishing some matters of business (being productive also contributes to my happy moods). I would purchase my commuters pass for school and then make a trip to the bank. I bought my commuters pass as soon as I got to the station...and I was pleased to have gotten that checked off my (lengthy) list of things to do. Soon enough I was on my way to my next errand - or so I thought. However, the train ride seemed unusually long and I had lost sight of any familiar landmarks; sure enough, I was on the wrong train. I hopped off at the next stop and asked for directions to get back on track (no pun intended).

As I was walking through the station I was approached by a man from behind, he was holding out a little piece of paper in front of me - it read: "Could I be a friend of yours?". This definitely caught me offguard and I wasn't really sure how to respond to such an upfront question. While racking my brain as to what an appropriate response would sound like, it soon dawned on me that many Japanese are extremely interested in learning english. In a matter of seconds, I reacted with a smile and a "yes". He explained to me that he is an english teacher at an elementary school, and while he has an understanding of basic english, he wants a native english speaking friend to converse with in order to improve. I told him we could hangout sometime and share in english conversation, if he would agree to help me with my Japanese. Needless to say he saw this as a fair deal and we exchanged contact information. When I told him where I was headed he informed me that I was heading the wrong way (yet again), then he walked me to the right station and waited with me, where we conversed briefly before parting ways.

As I was waiting for the train I looked up at the time and noticed that it was too late to make it to the bank in time before it closed, but I figured it was all worth it to have made a new friend. :)



Sincerely,

Tory Sensei.

Everything is Cooler in Tokyo

This morning was an early morning. I had to get up at 7am in order to make it to my "Language Placement Test" on campus. I was grumpy, and a bit bothered by the fact that I was going to a 'language placement test' when the simple statement "I do not speak Japanese" should suffice to have me placed in a beginners class. At the same time I was able to acknowledge that this test is protocol, and mandatory for all students at Keio University. After barely making it there on time (I blame Marco, who never seems to be on time for anything) we sat down in front of our exams. All I could really do was giggle to myself when I looked down at the test that was entirely in Japanese (which I guess makes sense). The sign to start writing - in Hiragana - was given; shortly thereafter the professor asked those who had never taken Japanese before to raise their hand...then they were asked to stand. Surprisingly, those on exchange who had never taken Japanese before were actually a minority - and needless to say, I was one of them. After standing for a few seconds (for everyone to take a good look) we were asked to leave, and were escorted to another room. Talk about your 'walk of shame'...hahaha.
In the other room we were told what beginner courses were available to us, then we were given a textbook to practice Hiragana (one of the three Japanese writing styles). The professor informed us that we should know all 46 characters before the first class (which will be taught using Hiragana). Basically...I have my work cut out for me - time to buckle down and study some Hiragana. I know it won't be easy, but I am excited nonetheless.

After the language placement testing, I made my way to the bank to open up an account. I was pleased that it didn't take too long, nor was it as difficult as I had predicted. The service at the bank - much like anywhere else in Japan - was great! When that was looked after I knew what my next stop would be...CELL PHONE! I couldn't wait. To state the obvious, cell phones in Japan are super cool ! I could stand around and look at the different cell phones for hours. Unfortunately, this errand turned out to be a bit of a let down. Since I am only around for 5 months, I was restricted to buying a 'prepaid' cell phone, and this restriction left me with just one option. One style, in one colour (black)...and probably one of the cheaper styles (I know my mom will be happy to hear this). That being said... Even the cheapest Japanese cell phone is cool !! - I will love it like it's my purple Blackberry curve (a.k.a 'Lavy') back at home.
A couple of things I noticed about the cell phones in Japan: 1. everybody has those dangling charms on them! - teenagers, adults, mothers, businessmen - everyone. If you don't have one, you simply won't fit in. Lots of people have even more than one... But a minimum of one is essential. I picked up on this rather quickly, and made a point of purchasing my dangling charm even before I bought the phone hahaha (what can I say? I was excited!). My charm is a little princess!! It says 'Disney' on the package, but it looks more like Princess Peach from Super Mario. Either way, it's a cute little princess. - but I digress. 2. I noticed that 98.9% of the cell phones here have the same shape. They are rectangular shaped flip phones. According to a friend/ a reliable source, this has to do with a fascination with the 'clicking' or 'snapping' noise the phone makes when it is flipped shut; I must admit...it is pretty fun.

What is particularly sad is knowing that I will get attached to this phone (the way I have a tendency to do with all of my cell phones) only before bringing it back home where it will become nothing more than a piece of memorabilia when it ceases to work. But that only means I'll have more incentive to return to Japan in the future...uhm...right?

So those were today's big accomplishments.
On my way back to residence, just when I was feeling good about having opened my bank account (depositing money) and purchasing a cheap cell phone...I noticed that a store I have been eyeing for a while now... was open! I poked my head in to look around, and before I knew it I was in the changeroom trying everything on! Tokyo style is the style my friends. I needed my shopping fix, and badly! It's not easy walking around looking at all of these Japanese fashionistas you know. What's a girl to do?? ....well... the answer came easily to me...buy some clothes! It's truly amazing how good my conscience can be at justifying spending money; "I will just pick up a few key articles", "It's the last one!", "you will never find this anywhere else!", "you can dress it up OR dress it down", "you will get so much wear out of this", "It's 30% off!", "you need this for the blistering hot weather to come", "you will be the only one in Canada with this outfit".... Well needless to say, that's all the convincing it took. - I cannot wait to sport my new Tokyo fashion!!

Time to study some Hiragana...




Konbanwa

A Harajuku Adventure

With nothing to do but explore this wonderful city, Marco and I decided to hop on a train to Shibuya today. While I pass through this part of Tokyo regularly to switch trains, I had never actually walked around Shibuya. Let me tell you - it is one happening place! Tons of cool stores, and of course...tons of people! it is certainly a popular area in Tokyo. The fashionable people, the tall buildings with flashing lights, and the awesome shops are a lot to take in. Agility is a must in order to look around, while dodging millions of people. I can tell you right now, this is one hot spot of Tokyo where I will spend much of my free time.

Marco recalled a park located in a central part of Shibuya that he wanted to show me. When we managed to find it we stumbled across a protest underway. This protest is regarding the preservation of the park. It was explained to us that the park is at risk of being bought by Nike which wants not only to re-name the park, but also to revamp it. While I wouldn't describe this park as aesthetically pleasing per se, it is simple and natural, with lots of character; these protestors intend to make sure it stays that way. To them, a new playground does not equal enhancement, rather it would be to conceal the art and simplicity that they know and love. In their eyes, there is no need for polishing - just a mere appreciation of what is already there. This park consists of a dirt pathway, swing set and a painted concrete climbing hill. One of the men invited us to sit with them for a cup of tea. I guess Marco and I spent maybe 45 minutes or more just sitting and conversing with these protestors before we returned to the hustle and bustle of Shibuya. Just before leaving I promised I would share their story, and post a link to their website - so here it is...
http://airmiyashitapark.info/wordpress/

We walked through Shibuya and ended up in Harajuku - an area of Tokyo famous for its fashion forward subculture. There were definitely some interesting styles going on. In case you're wondering... big bows, pig tails, fluffy short skirts (tutus), neat socks/tights, colourful hair, high heels, and hair clips or perhaps dressing up like your favourite cartoon character is really 'in' right now. Think Sailor Moon meets colourful-little boe peep-fashionista? ...Being different (to an extreme) is the new black. -- and that is your fashion update. You're welcome.
In all honesty, it's definitely a fun place to be. However, I feel like my average style made me 'uncool', next time I'm going to have to step things up a notch. Oh, and if you're not quite sure what to wear...just remember...anything goes in Harajuku. ;)

We continued walking around aimlessly and hoped we were on our way back to a train station. On our way however, we came across a nice looking park-like area (which caught our eye considering we were in the middle of a city) so we decided to take a detour in our train station quest and check it out... There were pretty gardens with cherry blossom trees, a pond full of Koi fish (and a turtle!), a building that looked like it was for hosting big events (i.e. weddings/ceremonies), and a temple. We wandered around a bit before leaving for the station. Finally, on our way into our neighbourhood, we stopped for 100 yen dumplings ($1.00) - a little place we were happy to discover the other day - truly a great way to end a long day of cruising the streets of Tokyo.

That's all for now folks.

Zojo-ji temple, Ginza & Sushi in the Fish Market

Yesterday I saw my first temple (Zojo-ji temple). It's beautiful, we walked in and took part in the traditions of purifying, and paying respects. This temple is just minutes away from my campus, and the Tokyo tower. Stepping back to admire a piece of ancient Japan with some modern architechture in the background was really spectacular. We walked through gardens and the grave yard appreciating all of the attention that is paid to detail and the smallest intricacies.


We also made our way to Ginza which is Tokyo's upscale shopping district (Rodeo Drive can't touch Ginza) there's everything from Giorgio Armani, Tiffany's, Prada, Dior and Rolex to Lacoste and Abercrombie. The Abercrombie was impressive! it has at least 12 floors of clothing! it has a club feel to it, with dimmed lights, booming music and model employees that dance when they aren't serving a customer. I'm not a fan of the brand name, but I was certainly enjoying the ambiance.

My first taste of real Japanese sushi was epic. The fatty tuna melts in your mouth and definitely made its mark on my tastebuds, and I now have a true concept of quality sushi (after sampling just the lowest grade of the higher grade tuna)...WOW. The grilled salmon was phenomenal! and while I am slightly ashamed to admit it...the whale was pretty delicious too (even though my conscience may not allow me to go back for more).


Finally, we made a quick stop in Akihabara (which is always exciting) before making it back to residence (without getting lost!) for me to pass out and recharge for another day in Japan. :)

Getting Settled

Yesterday I moved into my residence, where I will be staying for the next 4 months.
The hotel staff were very helpful, a gentleman working got my luggage for me as I was checking out (thank god it was delivered early! see first post) He took all of my luggage outside for me, and flagged down a cab for me, and then explained to the cab driver where i was heading
It was quite the cab ride, certainly an unforgettable one.

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He turned down roads that I was sure were sidewalks !! I was amazed that there wasn't an accident. it was a jerky ride...and dodging pedestrians/ people on bikes, can't be that easy. After surviving the ride, I was thoroughly impressed with his driving skills. My residence was pretty hard to find, so much so that the cab driver had to get out and ask for directions three times, but we made it ! I was fascinated by the way we communicated throughout the ride, he would speak to me entirely in japanese, and I would respond in english, but somehow I think we both felt as though we got our points across (or did we?). I was more just trying to awkwardly acknowledge him, in spite of the fact that I had no clue what he was saying.
When we finally arrived at my destination I met the residence management which showed me around and explained the rules to be followed, then she directed me to tables full of things one would want in their apartment and told me to take whatever I wanted...it was all FREE! all things that were left by previous students on exchange, anything they couldn't or didn't wish to take back was left for future students. (chairs, pillows, dishes, laundry detergent, baskets, stationery, soap, all sorts of food, lamps, alarm clocks, basically anything you could imagine!) I was elated, especially after thinking that these would all be things I would need to buy upon arrival.

One of the things I grabbed from the piles of free things (all neatly sorted into categories) was a canned beverage. Later, I was happy to remember that I had placed it in my refrigerator because I was parched after traveling and unpacking. I chugged it back, and took a look at the can to decode what it was that I was drinking, the only english word on the can was "lemon" so i figured it was just ice tea....but when I took a closer look...I noticed that it was 6% alcohol. hahaha...I LOVE JAPAN.

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I must admit, after staying in that tiny hotel room I didn't have any high expectations for my room in residence. However, my room is quite spacious complete with a cute little kitchen, and a personal washroom. It's like a mini apartment. (pics to come!)

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Now I must venture out of my room to begin today's mission: find an umbrella and some sushi.

A Japanese Hotel Experience

(More to come, I seem to be having some technical difficulties...)




The space between my hotel and another building...

The lovely view from my hotel window

ME! loving my tiny hotel room

The many functions of my toilet

The bathroom

Arrived Alive !

Greetings from Tokyo !
While it is about 3:45pm in Ontario, it is now 4:45am in Tokyo. I am so exhausted from traveling, but my body doesn't want to sleep - it's not a great feeling. On that note, while I'm awake, I thought I would write my very first post. :)
So...First things first: that flight...was brutal. I won't go into too much detail (there isn't a lot to say) but basically you ought to know - never fly for 13 hours in economy class, never eat the eggs, and never request the window seat on the way to Japan. While I was under the impression that I would be enjoying the view, I quickly learned that when you're flying into the sun (and into the future) it's too bright to keep your window open, let alone enjoy any kind of view. Furthermore, with two people seated to my right I felt bad forcing them to get out of their seats to let me out to go anywhere - so...i didn't. I sat the entire way. No trips to the washroom. and no getting up to stretch. That being said, I'm a new fan of aisle seats, and I couldn't have been happier to get off that plane.

Movie Ratings (from the movies I watched on the plane)
- Where the Wild Things are - awful. boring. The characters were cute, but the content was severely lacking.
- The Blindside - awesome movie. certainly deserving of its Oscar award and I almost cried a few times. Sandra did a great job.
- Whip it! - brutal.
- The Invention of Lying - so bad that I actually had to turn it off.
- Couples Retreat - pretty funny, this one made me laugh. unfortunately it gets a little cheesie and dragged out towards the end but still worth watching.

Now...as I sit in what I think might be the world's smallest hotel room, I can't stop thinking about how cool this place is, and how nice the people are. I felt like I was in an epidose of "The Amazing Race" when I was trying to make it to my hotel room. I ended up having to take 3 trains from the airport to Sangenjaya, thankfully the Japanese seem always eager to help! (i.e. the six police officers that swarmed me to try and help after I asked which train to take to get to Nippori). Just to emphasize the extent to which the Japanese are helpful - when I finally made it to Sangenjaya I had to stop and ask for directions a few times, two of the three people I asked for assistance actually left their workplace while working to walk me down the street, guiding me to my hotel!
The room is tiny, but there's a bed in it and at this point that's all that matters. The bathroom is somewhat like a little space shuttle, it's interesting. The toilet seat is padded and heated. It also has a lot of buttons, from what I can decode it seems that it will spray your butt, and even deodorize your butt (?!). I think I'll stick with flushing...

Tomorrow I have a big day ahead of me. Getting my hands on my luggage which I chose to have delivered (wise choice.) The only issue right now is that it will be delivered sometime between 9am-12pm and I need to check out of here by 10am and begin my move-in process by noon. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for an early delivery.
Then I make my way to my residence and unpack a bit, before heading to the Ward Office where I am to get my hands on an Alien card (Tory Hibbitt: certified alien) ha!
I'm looking forward to unpacking a bit and exploring my neighbourhood...
Now friends, I need to get a bit more rest but I'll post some pics of the hotel room soon - stay tuned!

Sionara