My Japan Experience by Kim

A decade of service, marked by a remarkable journey to Japan—thankful for the opportunity and the memories! ♥

This year marked a significant milestone in my life: my first adventure across the skies and beyond the borders of my home country. From June 23-28, I embarked on a journey to Japan with Ms. Melvie. The opportunity, revealed to me on April 19, was a golden ticket—one that promised both excitement and a dash of anxiety.

As soon as the trip was announced, my days became a whirlwind of preparation. I renewed my expired passport, gathered all the essential documents, and made sure everything was in order for the journey. Since this was a business trip, the company took care of the visa and other paperwork, easing a considerable burden. I meticulously packed my suitcase, chose outfits suitable for both the business and the heat, and researched every travel guideline I could find. With my eGov travel registration completed and my phone set up for international roaming, I felt a mix of readiness and nervous anticipation.

The adventure began at the crack of dawn on June 23. A 5 AM Grab car ride took me to Mactan-Cebu International Airport, where I met up with Ms. Melvie. After a smooth check-in and security process, we boarded our Cebu Pacific flight to Manila. The journey was uneventful, but our layover was anything but smooth. Immigration checks were a tense affair, and in a moment of panic, I almost lost my boarding pass—it had slipped from my grasp and fallen to the floor without my notice.

We finally boarded our flight to Narita, and despite a few bumps along the way, the flight was a pleasant one. Arriving in Japan, we faced a marathon of a wait at immigration, missing our train connection. We decided to take the last bus to Shinjuku, arriving just past midnight. Exhausted yet exhilarated, I had my first taste of Japanese convenience food from Family Mart before drifting off to sleep around 2 AM.

The first day in Japan began early, with me preparing my business attire and meeting Ms. Haru in the hotel lobby. We strolled to the Zenken office, where Sir Hara and other Japanese colleagues greeted us warmly. Lunch was a delightful experience at a local ramen shop, where the generous servings of authentic Tokyo ramen delighted our taste buds.

The event at Zenken was a blend of formalities and surprises. While the dress code was business attire, many attendees opted for a more casual look. We attended the initial parts of the event, though the presentations were in Japanese, leaving us a bit in the dark. Fortunately, Sir Hara offered explanations along the way. After navigating the bustling Shinjuku station and acquiring some comfortable sandals, we relaxed at a Starbucks before heading to a local restaurant to dine with the Linguage staff. It was an evening filled with conversation and camaraderie.

Day 2 was an educational journey. We started with a presentation at the Zenken Office before setting off to visit Joshibi Junior College and Edogawa Girls' Junior & Senior High School. Each school provided a unique glimpse into Japan’s educational landscape. From the lush, tranquil environment of Joshibi to the Western-style campus of Edogawa, the experience was eye-opening.

After a hearty lunch at a noodle shop, we returned to the Zenken Office for a tour with Sir Ueoku. The day concluded with a delightful dinner with Sir Hara, followed by an exploration of Kabukicho in Shinjuku. We ended the night with a stop at a local convenience store for some snacks, then retired to the hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Our third day was all about exploration. We boarded a bus in Shinjuku for a comprehensive tour of Tokyo’s highlights. Our first stop was the Emperor's Palace, where we marveled at the historic grounds and the Statue of Kusunoki Masashige. We then ventured to Asakusa, where we had free time to enjoy the sights, including Sensoji Temple, and participate in a traditional tea ceremony.

Odaiba was next, where we admired the Rainbow Bridge, Tokyo Bay, and the replica of the Statue of Liberty. After shopping for souvenirs at Aqua City Odaiba and indulging in a delightful lunch at the Hilton Hotel, we took a scenic Tokyo Bay cruise. Our final stop was Tokyo Tower, where we captured panoramic views despite the cloudy skies.

Despite our initial quest for souvenirs in Shibuya, we ended up shopping in Shinjuku. We met Sir Hara at a café to finalize plans for Disney Sea the next day before heading back to the hotel for some late-night shopping and snacks.

On Day 4, we ventured to Tokyo Disney Sea, arriving by 9:15 AM. Our day was filled with magical moments, exploring various attractions and navigating through the park with the help of an online guide. From the Disneysea Transit Steamer Line to Fortress Explorations, every corner of the park offered something enchanting.

We enjoyed rides, captured countless photos, and took breaks in shaded areas to escape the summer heat. Although some attractions had long lines and language barriers, the experience was exhilarating. We left before sunset, returning to APA Hotel to prepare for our departure the next day.

The final day arrived, and we packed our bags, checked out, and left our luggage at the hotel lobby. After going to the Zenken office to say our goodbyes to Sir Hara and the Japanese staff, we took the train to Haneda Airport. Although we had parted earlier, Sir Hara met us again at the airport to assist with our departure. A final meal of Okonomiyaki with Sir Hara was a fitting end to our journey. Navigating through immigration and security was straightforward, and our flight home with Philippine Airlines was comfortable. After a brief stopover in Manila, we landed back in Cebu at 10:36 PM, greeted by the familiar sights of home.

Preparation: Take ample time to get ready for your trip. Carefully pack your belongings and follow all travel guidelines. Ensure your documents are in order, as immigration procedures can be strict.

At the Airport:

Stay Informed: Keep an ear out for announcements and regularly check flight information displays to stay updated on any changes.

Politeness and Respect: Show courtesy to airport staff and fellow travelers. A respectful attitude can make your journey smoother.

Visiting Japan:

Comfort and Convenience: Expect to walk considerable distances. Dress comfortably and wear supportive footwear.

Technology and Modernity: Japan is a tech haven. Many restaurants use tablets and QR codes, and taxi doors open automatically.

Food: Japanese cuisine is a treat, with even convenience stores offering a variety of options. Vending machines are prevalent, offering refreshing drinks. Note that tea in Japan is usually unsweetened.

Weather: During the summer, be ready for heat. Pack sunscreen and an umbrella to stay protected.

Business Attire: It's common to see people in business suits, reflecting the country’s formal dress standards.

Shopping: You can either place your items directly in your own bag or choose a plastic bag for an additional charge.

Cleanliness and Organization: Japan stands out for its cleanliness and organization. Buildings and homes are aesthetically pleasing and meticulously maintained.

Etiquette:

Respect Local Customs: Adhere to local traditions and cultural practices.

Be Quiet and Courteous: Maintain a low profile and be respectful in public spaces.

Keep Spaces Clean: Take responsibility for your surroundings and leave areas tidy.

Punctuality: Arrive on time for appointments and meetings.

Patience and Politeness: Exhibit patience and maintain politeness in all interactions.

Respect Personal Space: Be mindful of others' personal space and privacy.

Use Technology Discreetly: Be considerate when using technology in public areas.

Transportation Etiquette in Japan:

Driving and Walking: Vehicles drive on the left side of the road. When using stairs or escalators, stand on the left to allow faster-moving people to pass on the right.

Public Transport: Keep conversations quiet and set your phone to silent. If the train is crowded, step aside to let passengers disembark before re-entering.

Cleanliness: It’s common to clean up after yourself in restaurants. Security guards are rare, so be vigilant of your surroundings.

Enjoying Japan:

Experience and Memory: Japan is a stunning country with much to offer. Savor every moment, capture memories with photos and videos, and relish the experience.

Unspoken Rule: Always be considerate and respectful of those around you, embracing the unspoken rules of Japanese etiquette.

Japan’s rich culture, advanced technology, and scenic beauty made this trip an unforgettable adventure.

♥