First Day

It's still hard to believe that I'm really here after my first day. In spite of my nervousness before I left California, I am actually having a great time. There was nothing scheduled for today, allowing any students who have already arrived time to explore and settle in. The food is really good and really cheap. The streets are all clean, and everyone rides bicycles, and it is amazing how many elderly people still ride their bikes--you definitely wouldn't see that in the US. It seems that no one locks up their bikes when they park, giving me a sense of safety only slightly shaken by the ominous signs on streetcorners depicting chikans (perverts, or "lascivious men" according to my textbook) sneaking up behind unsuspecting women and children.

The thing that has surprised me most so far is how Japanese things are. That should seem obvious, but I was expecting much more Westernization around urban areas, especially after seeing so many signs in English on the bus ride from the airport. It is really pretty though, and I like the style a lot. This morning and through the afternoon I have been wandering around the area with a group of 7 other students in my program, and especially in the residential areas the architecture is very traditional. The streets are narrow, and before each house is a stone wall with a garden behind. The houses themselves usually have wood exteriors, and they are built in a very attractive style. Even in the dorms, the floors are covered with tatami mats, and we sleep on futon mats on the floor that you fold up during the day. They were surprisingly comfortable. Shoes must be removed at the entrance to the building. It's the real deal.

Already we have gotten several Japanese people pointing and staring at our group. I suppose it's to be expected. I find it funny, although a little awkward...

I am eager to see my friends from Oberlin when they arrive. All of the other students here have been really nice. This feels just like going to college for the first time again. A whole new world is open at my feet.