So, why Japan?

Of all the questions people ask me when they find out where I’m going, the most common, understandably, is why Japan? This is normally accompanied by a look of mild bewilderment as they ponder the enormity of moving to the far side of the world, and what sorrowful and earth-shattering circumstances must have driven me to such extremes.

Well, there are a number of reasons, not all of which are earth-shattering. Firstly, I do have a faint idea of what it’s like as I’ve been to Japan before, a few years back, playing with my swing band in Tokyo. Many Japanese people have never really met any Westerners, and I found a uniform curiosity regarding our strange habits and customs. Nonetheless, they are also one of the politest people groups that I have ever come across; something I hope to learn a little from!

Secondly, I think that seeing life from a completely different worldview will be an invaluable experience. Japan is unique in terms of its rapid technological advancement from a feudal system of government to a world power. In under a century, Japan evolved from a country that had virtually no contact with the outside world to being embroiled in a world war that would give rise to some of the darkest moments in recent history. Culturally, they remain distinct, and I look forward to seeing more of how they reconcile their past with modernity.

Finally, I get to be a teacher! This is a massive change professionally, as my background is in law and lobbying. I’m very much looking forward to getting into this new profession, learning new skills and helping people develop their English, as I learn more about them and even myself.

That’s the answer to ‘why Japan’ in brief. Also, you can buy a mind-controlled tail. Yes. Yes you can. You might even be able to wear it whilst piloting a real life terminator which fires at its target when you smile.

Welcome to Japan, indeed.

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