That is not to say I am void of opinion, but rather I stopped myself from viewing Japan as a Korean.
Historically speaking, this change of mind was probably a good thing. As I have briefly mentioned, relations have not been great, and biases and reconciliation efforts need to still be addressed. And through travel and sharing as now two sovereign nations, we are getting there.
One phenomenon I witnessed that Japanese super woman, Yuuka, confirmed as accurate was the prevalence of couples consisting of a Japanese woman and a White man.
I did not bear witness to the reverse partnership, and Yuuka added it is rare to see the latter. Mixed race couples are uncommon in general in Japan.
It was not off putting (clearly not the existence of interracial couples - my own family is interracial), for as an outsider and stranger, who am I to judge?
But being aware of the historical fetishization of East Asia present in literature, art, and even through my own personal experiences, I took notice.
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Japan's population is dwindling, and the age gap is apparent looking at the workforce across multiple
professions. Nevertheless, immigration is a complex process for foreigners that can deter some.
(Photo credits by PintsizedPioneer) |
Before I go into a long-winded sociological diatribe, I will return to the topic of Japan and how it fascinates and amazes me.
How can there be so many people running in every direction, but the subways arrive almost never a second late? How almost all the world problems can be solved with some curry rice and donkatsu? Sigh.
One of Japan's defining characteristics for me as one can probably tell is its gastronomy. As a result of being there for only four days, I was not able to experience every thing I wanted to in Tokyo, let alone the country.
However, food was one part that I could not miss or refuse, and why would I?
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Oh, what this fish could be made into ... The Tsukiji Fish Market is multi ringed and opens early. Be warned: it is
full of tourists. Authorities will sort you into lines and direct you in to avoid collisions with speeding carts. Rule #1
do not get into anyone's way. (Photo credits by PintsizedPioneer) |
Representative of ever flavour as it is the country that coined the term umami (savouriness), traditional Japanese cuisine is intricate, delicate, and diverse in its texture and consistency.
NattÅ (fermented soybean), expertly sliced raw fish (although I frequently felt guilty for eating tuna, knowing full well of the overfishing practices taking place), crispy tempura and katsu, and pickled burdock are indicative of this nation's unique style of food.
Be it from a crowded restaurant under train tracks, a traditional, family run sushi bar, or even a simple, late night 7Eleven (because the ones in Asia are more like 7Heaven), food is reasonably affordable and beyond tasty.
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Shinjuku at night -- explore the alleys, meet strangers. (Photo credits by PintsizedPioneer) |
As I say with all my destinations, I will be back. Next time, I imagine it will be with a friend or two. Hopefully, I will be with someone who actually speaks Japanese. I've seen Fuji, but did not enjoy an onsen (hot spring).
I've heard stories about Roppongi, but have not made my own. I need to try Hokkaido crab.
I am glad I have an idea what Japan feels like now, how it rushes with people but rests in rice paddies and waterfalls and mountains. I plan to increase my time in Asia significantly as I mature, and I cannot fathom why Japan would not be revisited.
Too electric? Too gracious? Too delicious?
Too bad I will not be able to return sooner.
Vancouver is rainy, classes are stressful, and rent is too expensive; normalcy has returned. I hope I was able to give you all some inspiration for any short upcoming trips to Japan. Some experiences are longer than others, but duration means nothing to experience. Well, it can influence how much jetlag one might experience. For those ready for a new adventure already, our next international excursion will be, I am happy to say, to Portugal, Spain, and Morocco next year with the Croatian goddess, Nina. Additionally, prepare yourself for some articles and essays from down under from a friend soon heading to Australia for study and research. Stay tuned and travel often.