A Warm Surprise

Our arrival in Japan was a welcome one; the cold climate was a constant reminder of that. Japanese hospitality is presented in a radically different manner, yet potent nonetheless. Most Filipinos would misattribute the Japanese’ polite and professional manner with the same coldness their weather shows, but have yet to see the tremendous amount of respect behind this demeanour.

This was already evident through Yuki sensei, who had accompanied us from the arrival of the train until our registration to the hotel, where he was nothing but kind and respectful but carried a professional composure that can be described as dependable.

I have yet to meet the students but if Yuki sensei is in charge of their education, then I have nothing to worry about.

Buddy to buddy - First day in Akashi College

The commute was fast. The amount of care the Japanese show to their train schedules is to be admired, it seems improbable for them to be late. It is admirable to see the urban planning work out as well as it had in Kobe as most public facilities are walkable after a train station. These walks are nothing short of enjoyable due to the comfortable cold weather that wipes away the sweat that would have drenched us in the Philippine climate.

The students were admittedly intimidating at first, probably due to the professionalism that I had elaborated last blog. However, these emotions subsided as soon as I heard the familiar hail alma mater hymn. The fact that they had practiced to sing in english is, not in a condescending light, adorable. They are nothing but helpful to us exchange students throughout our classes, lending school materials, explaining formulas, and exchanging in conversation in a language they are not comfortable with.

To be treated such is a treat and I look forward to returning the favour in the coming days.