14/08/2026
Japan Reflection: This trip to Japan has been an outstanding one and I wanted to reflect on a few things. Sensei LaRoyce, when she ends class with formal bow out she explains to the class the Doju-kun and the small details and meanings behind each action. She often uses the phrase "At this moment I show my gratitude and ask myself: did I do karate a service or a disservice". This quote really hit home with me this trip. Once Michelle and I decided to pull the trigger on this experience, a lot of research went into it. Such as cultural rules, expectations, and nuances. I knew we were going to be "gaijin" (foreigner), but I wanted to do my best and put my best foot forward and not look like a fool.
A list of things I learned (prior, during, after):
The biggest help was learning some basic japanese, even if it was just pleasantries. Despite using a travel agency to book most things, the language barrier still seemed to be a bit of a struggle, so the small amount I knew still helped out. I am so very humbled by knowing/growing up in English. Some countries came in with three different languages. Their native language, English, and Japanese.
Cleanliness: prior research told me that a good guest leaves their location just as nice as it was when you arrived. So, every morning i would make our beds, and organize our traveling gear/luggage, sinks/countertops, shoes, and paperwork prior to leaving for the day. In case the housekeepers came in to clean/exchange linens. However, i noticed how many (men at least) wouldn't wash their hands after using the restroom (grossy).
Research told me a (culture shock) Japan is a slower paced country. I found this not to be true. It was noticed at the first hotel. If no one is around, they're pushing that "close door" button as soon as they can. This was also noticed at the train stations. Arrows clearly stated the coming and going paths, but I saw a fair amount of it being ignored. However, Michelle and I did our best to stick with the layout of the land.
I love the attire people wear. If I had to guess, 70-80% of the people had business to business casual type attire, not very often did I see personal T's. I too followed this path. Most of the attire I wore, depending on the day was more on the business casual side.
Luggage on local transit: prior research taught me to always, no matter what, keep backpack's on the front of you to make more room. I did see this, but was surprised by the number of people who didn't.
Talking on trains: prior research taught me to not talk on trains and if you do, keep it low. This wasn't an issue, however, there were times where trains had a dull roar of conversations.
People are not that into anime/manga or that culture: Probably true, but what i saw for my own eyes was huge number of people at the many stores i visited, but the age ranges as well. You had kids to middle-aged and up buying/selling/trading all kinds of pop culture products. This also applies to video arcade games. People of all ages came together and played.
Whether I did a service or disservice, is in the eyes of the beholder.
