Japan 2010: Day 3 (part 1)
I know I’m procrastinating and not updating this as much as I should but I’ve been so busy ever since I got back. Furthermore, I get stuck, trying to figure out what did I do there.
I’m still updating Day 3 because it seems to be the longest day for me. Hahaha. You’ll get what I mean when you go through it. Douzo!
*****
Day3.1: I’m late!!
The stupid alarm had to ring late. I had thought of getting down to Kyoto earlier so that I can cover more places. But the alarm just had to ring late. My initial planning was to get to Shinagawa JR station (where the shinkansen station is) by 8am but since the sun rise early, I decided to take an earlier train. So the earlier I woke up, the faster I’ll be at Kyoto.
But the alarm just did not ring! Argh! I’ll never figure out how to use this dumb phone! Grarh! I woke up around 6.30am and considering that I have not packed, shower, had breakfast and what not, I need to get out of the house by 7am. It takes me 15 minutes to walk to Kashiwa JR station and another half and hour to get to Ueno JR station. Then it’s another change of maybe 10 minutes to get to Shinagawa station! Argh!!
I changed my clothes without showering (which doesn’t really matter since I wasn’t stinky anyway) and went downstairs for a drink of water. Shu-san was up and surprised to see me so early. はいや？ Then I told him I was off to Kyoto for the day. That was too much of a surprise in the morning. Then he told Keisei-san, whom I have informed earlier but she looked just as surprised.
I left the house, supplied with 2 chocolate waffle sticks (which I have grown to love its convenience), a banana and an orange. I hastened my pace to the train station, hoping that there won’t be much people today.
You can say I’m quite lucky because school has yet to start yet. It was still early April and students were still on leave.
I managed to get on the train on time with my bag pack up front for most of my valuable things, such as my passport and purse, were in the front pocket. I didn’t bring along my handbag since it was just an overnight trip and I didn’t want any extra stuff to carry around. Once I reached Shinagawa, I had to find my way to the shinkansen entrance.
Once I did, I went to the counter, speaking in feeble Japanese that I wanted to reserve a seat to Kyoto. I think I spoke well but the lady just didn’t understand. Then we managed to converse something in English. The conversation went something like this:
Me: (something in Japanese – I can’t remember my exact words) I would like to reserve a seat to Kyoto, for the 8.15am train.
Lady: Kochira mada?
Me: Eh?~ Eigo hanase masu ka? – do you speak English?
Lady: Which station you go?
Me: Kyoto desu.
Lady: (in Japanese but I can understand what she’s trying to say) Sorry but there are no reserve seats available.
Me: Eh? (wondering what was my next option)
Lady: (took out a piece of paper and wrote ‘seat full’) Take (meaning stand – she meant I had to try my luck with an unreserved seat and risk standing 4 hours to Kyoto).
Me: So desu ka? Ah, ii ne.
Lady: (in Japanese) You don’t need a ticket. Just use your rail pass.
And I ran off to catch the shinkansen
Day3.2: Figuring out the shinkansen
I was to take the Hikari line. It was the next fastest thing to the Nozomi line, which my rail pass does not cover. It took me sometime to how the seats work, reading the sign boards and looking at other people. I ended up waiting with a bunch of old people while reading my phrase book on what to do if I have to ask someone if there’s a seat.
Seiki wa, dare ka, imasu ka?
Then I got on the train and as expected, there were no free seats which I can just place my butt on. The only available seat I saw was between a ojiisan and a young worker and it had a bag on it. I can’t remember my phrase and just said tsumimasen. The ojiisan was nice enough to lift his bag but when he wanted to put it on the space above him, luggage were blocking his space. He then went on complaining that those bags shouldn’t be there (he spoke Japanese of course and I can’t understand him but had an idea what he was trying to say).
Lucky for me, the bags belonged to a group of foreigners sitting in front. I asked them if those luggage were theirs and if they could move it a bit further front. They looked at me as if I was stupid and pointed elsewhere. I told them it was not my bag I wanted to place but the ojiisan’s. They reluctantly shifted their luggage to the other side and the ojiisan welcomed me to sit down. Douzo.
I sat at my seat, feeling slightly excited. It was my first time in a high speed train (I wonder if the ERL back then counts). I wanted to take a video/picture but I had a feeling the ojiisan would find me annoying. I didn’t like that he kept pulling down the blinds either and I can’t see the view outside. Argh!
The people sitting next to me changed a couple of times. Everyone was courteous when they wanted to sit down and I welcomed them to. Douzo.
I ate my banana in the train, feeling hungry without any breakfast. Ah Yee had mentioned she would make me something nice today but too bad I woke up earlier than she did. I wonder where they sell ekibens. I was tempted to get off at Hamamatsu to buy something eat but think about it, I don’t want to be late to Kyoto as well.
After less than 4 hours sitting in the shinkansen, I reached Kyoto. And the station is not as old as I thought it would be.
Day3.2: Loads of tourists!
For some reason, Kyoto station was loaded with people. It was already near 11.30 when I reached the place and it would take me another 15 minutes or so to get to my bus stop, Kiyomizu. The best thing about this train station was there was ekibens everywhere and they all look so yummy!
I didn’t feel like having a lot of rice that day. Must have been bloated for not eating breakfast. So I walked around and saw something that caught my eye. Stir fried beef bento. Oooh…it costs 1,000yen. That’s like eating a set meal back in KL but I’m not in Japan. Must not be picky about food and ekiben is one of the things I must try.
So I bought my ekiben and a hot ocha. I’ve been a fan of ocha ever since I got here. Kyoto’s tea is one of the best in Japan!
After that, I decided to find the bus station. I got lost looking for it because there was west side and east side. Ah! I don’t like these whole north, south, east and west side directions. So, after about 15 minutes wandering around, feeling lost, I headed to the Tourist Information Centre because I saw a lot of people walking around, holding a map (that was in English). I decided to try my luck there.
There were so many, many ,many people! Mainly old people, whom I guess were there to visit the shrines. I scouted around, wondering where to get the so-called map I saw. There was none at all those racks so I decided to ask the counter. Over the counter there were plates to show what language each staff could speak. Anyone with a sane mind would go to the counter where ‘English’ is stated.
I asked for a map and the lady nodded. I doubt she could really speak because after she gave me the map, she started speaking in slow Japanese. Time to time, I’m thankful for watching all those Arashi variety shows. I asked her in Japanese back,’ バスセテションはどこですか？’ (Where is the bus station?). She told me to turn then go ステレグト(straight). ‘Sutereto, sutereto.’ I can only smile at her eagerness to help. ありがとう！
At the bus station, I figured out which bus I had to take. I think was the bus heading towards the East of Kyoto and my stop was at Kiyomizu. I didn’t had to figure out how much to pay because everyone was asking each other in the line. ‘Ikura desu ka? Ah, 220yen ne.’ So, I got ready 220yen in my pocket, holding on to a big plastic bag of ekiben and my bagpack.
The bus pulled up by the road and everyone eager to get up. I managed to get a seat at the back, next to a couple and a family of foreigners. The son was one annoying brat. From what I observed, the family didn’t make any plans and the mother kept on complaining that they should plan next time. The husband and daughter were ignoring the mother as the son kept on with his annoying noise. I wanted to sound him but his mother did the favour instead.
More people got on the bus and I had to keep a lookout on where I was going to stop. I saw the Royal Museum (which I think is) and was going to get off at the next stop. The annoying brat got off the same stop as well and I hastened my steps, trying to get away from them.
The first thing I was to do was to find the ryokan I was to stay in. The map looked simple enough and I had already sort of imprinted the image of the ryokan in my head. I was still blaming NTT Docomo for not giving me access to the internet because right now, the map would be very useful.
It was amazing. The crowd I mean. But it wasn’t time to be amazed. I have to find the ryokan first before I can do my role as a sightseeing tourist. The goods were too tempting but I must resist. It’s not easy to shop when you are carrying a bagpack and a plastic bag full of food while walking.
And did I mention how warm it was today? It was so warm that I was only walking around in my t-shirt and jeans. I had my arm warmers on and off because of the wind. My back was all wet!!
Believe it or not, I walked for a total of an hour, up and down the hill before I decided to ask for directions. No matter how many times I looked at the map I got from the Tourist Information Centre and the map I got on my phone, I still couldn’t find the place.There was a girl, selling some candy by a shop by the roadside. I showed her the maps and she pointed out where I was. Not much help but at least I know I’m quite far away.
Then, I found it. You can call me stupid but it was actually the place which I passed by not one, not twice but thrice! I felt relief and stupid at the same time. If you want to ask how I realised it was when I passed the ryokan, pick up the brochure at the entrance and there I saw it. Higashiyamaso. Hahaha!
It was only around 1pm when I reached the ryokan but I decided to go in and make sure I got the right place. I did and they checked me in. The only problem is that I could only go to my room at 4pm. I thought of having lunch perhaps outside the ryokan thinking that they might have a big garden but they didn’t. After confirming the time of my dinner and other matters, I headed out to really enjoy Kiyomizu now.
Japan 2010: Day 2
Day 2.1: Waking in rainy weather
I woke up late because I still have no idea how to use the stupid iPhone. In Japan, 2G phones don’t work so I had to borrow my dad’s iPhone since he has no idea how to use it either. It took me around 3 weeks to figure out how an iPhone works and after a few hundred ringgit bill since I have no data plan.
The alarm didn’t ring and my SE phone didn’t work either. The weather was to cold that it drained the entire battery completely within an hour of start-up. To make things worse, my SE battery charger broke into 2 due to some unknown forces on my luggage. So my SE phone was lay to sleep during the entire trip and I thank myself for putting in songs into the iPhone or else I would be stuck doing nothing.
The other problem was that 3G in Japan only gives you connection to make calls and messages but not data roaming. No matter how many times I try, I can’t get onto the Internet, which sucks. It was the whole reason I borrowed pa’s iPhone in order to get around.
I got up and went downstairs to get myself ready. Ah Yee was up and awake and I greet her good morning. The sun rises earlier in Japan, around 5am as compared to Malaysia. It felt as if I slept in, something which I have not done for a long time since peak kicked in.
I got downstairs to use the shower. Now, I know very well that the Japanese don’t shower in the morning because they showered the night before. If you shower in the morning, it simply means you did something to get yourself dirty the day before. Hmm…
But I was in a situation where a shower is in need. Don’t ask me further details. >_<
I got myself ready, with contact lenses and eye makeup and sat at the dining area for breakfast. Ah Yee was already up and heated up some meat buns for me. The other girls didn’t want it as they were already stick thin and you know how Singaporean girls are.
After that, I headed out. It was raining so I borrowed an umbrella. I like Japanese umbrellas. Clear umbrellas so that you can see the rain dropping. Romantic eh?
I reached the station in about 15 minutes time and I head to the first station I see, the Tobu Kashiwa station. Now, I only bought a JR pass and wasn’t quite sure how it works. The man at the counter explained to me that I should be going through the JR counter instead. After a little embarrassment, I made it pass the JR manned gate and headed to platform.
I was beginning to wonder why is it so cold in Spring. Does not make sense. Anyway, was cold.
I took the Joban rapid line down (which is my main line for days to come) and head down to the last stop, Ueno. At Ueno, I will need to take the famous Yamanote line, a loop line that goes round and round of Tokyo.
Since it was a free and easy trip and I had a rail pass, I decide that I’ll just get off at whichever station that interests me.
Akihabara did.
The image that Akihabara gave me was loads of technology gadgets, anime and mange and of course, cosplaying maids.
I didn’t see much of those. I must have been at the wrong place.
I got down at the station and went into the first building I see, Yodobaishi Akiba. Inside, it was amazingly scary. You can find every single gadget you can ever think off in the entire world and its all here. Laptops, cameras and all down to phone covers, DVD storage bags and so on. The only thing was there were no iPhone cases. iPhone and Blackberry are not so popular her given their ケイタイ do a much better job. iPods are popular though since it looks cooler than a regular MP3 player.
After about 30 minutes, I decided to leave since it doesn’t interest me much. I had no idea where I should be heading and just walked but always arriving back at the station. I found a ガシャポン outlet but the figurines were not interesting. After about an hour, I got bored and decided to head to my next stop, Shibuya.
Day 2.2: It’s so surreal!
At Shibuya, I went looking for Lynn’s handbag. If I had to do it, I might as well get it now. But no matter how much I walk, I can’t find a shopping centre that has Longchamp.
People at Shibuya are more high classed, considering the number of individual boutiques they have. Even the clothes are more expensive.
One thing I note that when you travel abroad, you can’t compare dollar to dollar or else you’ll end up not spending anything. But since I’ll be here for 8 days, I have to budget. I can’t use it all up on day 1!
I went plazas to plazas, looking for Longchamp. None found.
As I walked, I went further and further away. That’s one small problem of not planning. You have no idea where you are heading and since I have no map, it made things worse.
Then something happened. As I walked along the way, not knowing where I’m heading, a guy halts me and asked me something. 仕事中？仕事中？(shigoto chuu?) Literally he’s asking if I’m working.
Now, I didn’t really have anyone to practice my Japanese with in Malaysia except for Baby and I know just enough to get by. I can understand but not respond.
The other thing that came into my mind was that is he asking me out or is he offering me a job? If he’s asking me out, it’s a shame because he’s cute and I can’t really speak Japanese.
But if he’s asking me a job, AV? The guys in the office have been taunting me, saying that someone might just kidnap me to act in some AV although I did tell them that I wouldn’t fit to be in one anyway. They only say I’ll never know and FCT had the cheek to say that if I ever did one, he’ll but it to support me. =.=;
I politely declined him, telling him in English that I don’t understand Japanese. He just smiled at me, apologized and I headed my way.
I immediately message PH, telling her what had happened. She told me I should have answered 無いですand risk on being kidnap to act in an AV.
I kept on walking and saw that I was nearby some stadium. Nothing to be interested about until I saw it. NHK. Will Arashi appear? No idea. I was excited that I took a pic anyway. ^^
I walked on. Then I saw something that interests me. Tokyu Hands. It’s like a Daisho in Malaysia only that it is not all 100yen. People were walking in and out carrying loads of bags. I had to go in and take a look. And if my feet weren’t aching (I had been walking in and out of plazas), I would have walked the entire building. I bought some food picks, a very cute pair of stockings and a portable plastic bag sealer.
After that, I went to Tower Records (hoping to bump into Matsujun ^^) and nearly went “Kyaa~~” when I saw Arashi’s DVDs and such. I had to restraint myself not to do so. I went all the way up to the books section, hoping to find the piano scores for their songs but failed since everything was in Japanese. So I decided just to wander around, listening to free music until I got bored. I think I spent about an hour in there, listening mainly to Ne-Yo (don’t you just love the chivalry in that man?).
After that, I got out and thought; maybe it’s time to head elsewhere. I can’t find what I want here and it was already about 2pm. Might as well get off to another spot. I head back to the Shibuya JR station and decided to go down to Harajuku next.
The first shop I went into was GAP. It was raining and I was cold so I decided I should get in there to warm myself up. Whenever I feel cold, I just step into some shop and embrace the warm air until I got bored. GAP had nice warmers but the clothes weren’t my style. So I got back out and headed where everyone was walking.
Then I saw it. The pink maid costume. Seriously. On Monday. 2 in the afternoon. Japanese are just plain weird.
Then another. Those multicolored hair. I mean, blonde is normal but green and yellow? Harlow?
As I was gawking at these abnormal (maybe normal in Japanese terms) passer bys, it struck again.
A guy, most likely a uni student with slightly long hair, approached me. He went on talking in rapid Japanese and I could understand what he was trying to do. He was hitting on me! OMG! What’s with me today? But still, I had to decline him. I told him すみませんでも日本語ありませんです。He only went Eh~~ and I just walked off. I was going ドキドキ. I message PH again, telling her it struck the 2nd time. She asked what was I wearing and I told her normal clothes. In fact, I was all covered up because of the cold weather. Who on Earth would I their sane mind wear skimpy clothing when the weather is so cold? Well, the locals do. I think they have high body fat percentage. 😛
I was in shock that before I realised it, I have walked one big round around Harajuku and ended up back in Shibuya. I thought my eyes were playing tricks on me but I can recognize that big Tower Records wherever I go and I passed by Tokyu Hands again. It took me immense strength not to go back in there.
Since I’m back there, I might as well hunt for Lynn’s LongChamp bag again. If you ask me, I can’t really recall where I got Lynn’s bag. For I remember that I saw a 100yen shop which I wanted to go and I was pretty sure was in Shinjuku. But when I went back to Shinjuku after my zoo trip, I wasn’t sure where I was anymore. I got lost in Shinjuku, my feet aching (because of walking too long in the zoo) and ended up eating at Matsudo (that’s another story altogether). So, I think I must have bought Lynn’s bag in Shibuya. But then again…
The best thing about the rain in Japan is that you will not need to walk around with a wet umbrella. At every place I go to, there are essentially: (1) Plastic bags for your umbrella and (2) A dispenser like thingy which lets your umbrella be wrapped up in those long plastic bags easily. It’s quite nice because you know how annoying wet umbrellas can be (and so far in KL, only Isetan has been practicing this) but it’s also not environment friendly. But Japanese are a recycling lot and they have many, many rubbish bins to let you throw only plastic items into them.
After much walking and having that ‘It’s A Small World’ Japanese version stuck in my head (I just had to pass by that Disney store), it was time to go home. Ah Yee said that dinner will be served around 7 and since it takes me about an hour to reach home, I might as well get ahead of the rush crowd.
Upon reaching Ueno, I was stuck at which line to take. In the morning it’s easy because all I have to recognize was Ueno. Ueno was the last stop from Kashiwa.
Now, getting back, I don’t see Kashiwa at all. I fiddled with my iPhone, staring at the rail map and noted that I should be taking the Joban Rapid Line (which I took in the morning) and head towards the direction of Mito, which is the other end of the Joban line.
Getting on trains in Japan needs timing, especially when it’s cold. Once you get on the train, it’s going to be warm so make sure you are on time. The other thing is to remember which doors open first. Because if you remember it right, you wouldn’t have to bear the cold wind that makes it way in once the door opens. I can never get it right not matter how many times I rode on the same line. Don’t ask me why.
Throughout my entire stay, I picked up some Japanese from riding in trains. Such as 右(migi) which is right, 左(hidari) which is left and駅(eki) which means station. I remember a few more words but not sure of the pronounciation, such as the next stop (which I kept thinking it sounded like summer peach).
Once I got home, Ah Yee’s son was around but I ignored him anyway. He was quite rude (because he kept leaving his things all over the place) and he smoked. I took of my contacts and eyeliner before the other girls got back. I didn’t want to scare the family thinking I was some lala girl because my image was rather lala that day. I remember having loads of vege that day and Ah Yee just keep shoving food down my throat. She made stir fry kimchi cabbage and also some pork (お肉). And as per my first day, I just wash dishes and also clean up Ah Yee’s stove because it was freaking me out seeing how messy and dirty it looked. I don’t even do so much at home ><.
Apparently, Ah Yee’s son was already 30 (Keisei-san is around 32/33) and he was going back to Shanghai to do some admin work. He has been in Japan for about 6 years now. I’m not sure what he works as but I think it’s a restaurant. Because Ah Yee kept talking, complaining and promoting about him after that.
That same night, an Australian couple was going to visit. Keisei-san was working late that night and Shu-san had to pick them up. He confessed to me that he was very nervous because he had to speak English. Shu-san knew bits of English and Mandarin. I can at times understand what he tells me in Japanese but feel silly because I try so hard to answer him back in proper Japanese.
I didn’t want to waste electricity so I stayed in the living room, playing with Yuki-chan andI chatted with Ah Yee about her plants. She had really nice tomato plants which she left out in the garden during the day and brought them into the house at night. Then Shu-san told Keisei-san about it and somehow I was labeled優しい(yasashii – meaning kind). Hahaha…self praising moment.
After sending Ah Yee’s son to the station, Shu-san waited for the Australian couple. I only knew their names were John and Simone (they kept calling her Selma or Seba and I got so confused that I tried to avoid calling them by their names ><). They knew the Japanese culture well because I can hear them telling Shu-san at the door that they need to take off their shoes. They came into house, saying こんばわ, meaning good evening and they thought I was Keisei-san, since I was the other person in the house who looks like a Japanese.
Ah Yee was intimidated by them because Ah Yee spoke little English. After offering them a meal, I asked them about their plans. They were investors, who were not sure how long they will be staying at Kashiwa. They thought I spoke little English even though Shu-san explained to them that I could speak English, Mandarin, Malay and Japanese. I know they don’t mean to be rude but I guess I just have that China girl look, which reminds me of my college days when that English lecturer kept on treating me like some China girl until the day I spoke to her back in smart English, complete with the British accent. That didn’t stop her though and she tried to counter back by speaking to me in a Scottish accent. =.=;
I thought them a few useful words such as 美味しい(oishii – meaning tasty) because they were using 素晴らしい（subarashii – meaning wonderful） to describe Ah Yee’s food. I also taught them いただきます(itadakimasu – meaning to partake in the food) . The next few days were spent teaching them a few useful phrases.
After talking with them a little, it was already 10 and I need to sleep early because the next day, I was going down to Kyoto! I wish everyone good night (that includes teaching John and Simone (I don’t really which is her name) how to say it in Japanese and headed to my soft pink bed.
Japan 2010: Day 1
Pre departure: KLIA, around 9pm
Dokon…dokon…dokon…
I’ve just checked in. In another 2 hours I’ll be on the plane, flying off, alone, to somewhere I’ve never been before.
The exhilarating feeling of travelling alone was slowly taken over by nervousness and a slight tinge of fear. Fear of not knowing what to expect. Fear of not knowing what will happen.
Dokon…dokon…dokon…
Ma and pa are more worried. They didn’t expect their daughter to just run off alone to somewhere she hasn’t been before either. Not when she sparsely spoke the language. Not knowing how will she make it through the days there.
Purely 8 days of not knowing what might happen.
Dokon…dokon…dokon…
Hugs and hugs and I go through the security gates.
A trip using the aerorail, walking across auto paths and passing by other passengers, I reach my boarding gate.
I can’t turn back now. Not that I’ve come so far.
Dokon…dokon…dokon…
Here I go…
*****
It was funny seeing people as I waited for my call to board the plane. Nearby me was a Japanese family and somehow, they spoilt the image of the well-mannered image of Japanese people. The lady was yakking loudly and the kids were all taking off their shoes and placing their feet on the seats.
Then the young girl sitting opposite me was opening her legs wide enough for me to squat in between her legs. She was cute but somehow, the way she sat was totally putting me off. Not that I’m a lesbian but Japanese are supposed to be well-mannered, aren’t they?
Everyone spoke Japanese around me and I could barely understand what they were saying. What happened? After watching the whole D no Arashi and G no Arashi series, I expected myself to at least understand what they were saying, although I may not be able to speak fluently.
I’m lost.
I got on the plane and was happy to find myself in a window seat. Hopefully no one sits next to me so that I can sleep easily.
But a Jap guy sat next to me instead. And he reminded me of L in the Death Note series, wearing a white long-sleeved top and jeans. I never got a good look of his face. Didn’t bother to because I must have annoyed the hell out of him from turning in my seat so many times.
I couldn’t catch a good sleep because I kept dreaming of work. I can’t remember it but it was keeping me awake.
By the time I was really awake, it was time for breakfast. I had omelet and sausages, which I say is not that bad. I usually don’t eat that much in the morning but after being awake most of the time, my tummy was growling slightly.
*****
I can see the shores of Japan now. There white things flowing in the sea, which I have no idea what were they. It could be pieces of ice berg or even jelly fish. Even before touchdown, I’m being curious.
The view was beautiful. I think I saw Mount Fuji. There were fields and fields of vegetables. Rows and rows of pine trees filled up the hills.
Then I saw it. The main reason for my entire trip. Cherry blossoms. Sakura.
*****
Day 1.1: Arrival at Narita International Airport Terminal 2
Once I got off the plane, I got confused. Where do I go? People were just walking ahead in front of me. I have no idea where I should go.
I found the first place I wanted to go. トレト ^^” (toilet)
Then I got on my way and headed to the passport check. I got in line but realized I didn’t fill up the disembarkation form. Everyone had one in their passports, well, except for me. They must have passed it out when I was trying so hard to sleep. I sneaked out of the line and went to find the disembarkation form. When I got back in line, there were like about 30 people ahead of me >’<.
I saw another form in everyone’s passport. Customs. But I couldn’t find it anywhere. I’ll just ignore it. I’m not bringing anything illegal anyway. Does durian dodol count as a dangerous item? It’s stinky though.
After I got my thumb prints done and my picture taken (so not in my best), I went to get my luggage. Packing the luggage was a hassle because the bags at home were either too small or too big. I had plenty to bring back so I needed something that was large enough. I finally decided on one of pa’s old bags which I regret after considering that the handle was too short to drag around.
My first test of Japanese was tested at the customs lane. The man asked in Japanese if that was my entire luggage. I went “Eh~”. The man then looked at me, not amused at all and spoke in English, asking me all the standard questions. Then his final question was, “Do you speak Japanese?” which I proudly answered “すこしです” which he didn’t find convincing. Anyway, he let me off since I don’t like the type to be carrying anything illegal except for the durian dodol.
Once I got out of the customs, I saw how small the arrival hall was. I walked around, wondering where to go. Then I saw where to exchange my rail pass. That went on smoothly and my pass would start the next day. But my watch was ticking near 8 and I remember that I had to get on the 8am bus to get to Kashiwa.
I got back to the limousine bus and started to check for the bus schedule. Kashiwa – 9am. よかったね. I was so worried I might not catch the bus on time and end up waiting here for about 2 hours till the next bus which would be 11am. I was getting a bit scared since I can’t really understand Japanese.
I bought my ticket and that went smooth as well. The man was polite although he spoke rapid Japanese. At least I know to respond to how many tickets. ひとりです. One person. That was enough. I got my ticket at 1,700yen and went off to find where my bus stop would be. It was about 8.15am and since the bus wouldn’t arrive until 8.55am, I decided to get something to munch on. I bought my first drink, hot green tea at the kiosk and had the sponge cake ma packed for me. I messaged everyone that I have arrived as I observed at how people got on the buses.
The one thing I didn’t predict was how chilly the weather was. At that time, it was 10°C. Thinking that the weather would be slightly warm, I only brought clothes thinking that the weather would be warm. The warmest thing I had was my black jacket, which I bought for the occasion.
I called up Keisei-san, my homestay host, to let her know the time of my bus. She sounded as if she just woke up, which I think it was since I called up her mobile instead of the house phone. It was only 8 something and back home in Malaysia, I won’t be awake either.
The buses were on time, so unlike the ones in Malaysia. My bus arrived at 8.55am, sharp. I got to my waiting place and place my luggage. An attendant comes over and passes me a ticket for my luggage. I didn’t have to lift a single thing. I then passed my bus ticket to the bus driver and got onto the bus. I waited for 9am which the bus departed on time. The experience is just so unlike Malaysian buses!
There were instructions in Japanese and English, making everything more convenient. I passed by the first terminal and the entire airport, looking at how things were loaded and unloaded.
One of the first few things I noted was the parking lots. Parking is super expensive in Japan. It starts at 100 yen (about RM3.70) an hour! In Malaysia, we complain if it’s not free. Parking lots near the airport start at 500 yen a day, which is still affordable. I’ll get to that part later on what happens in the urban areas. After you parked your car, there will be transportation service to send you to the terminal, FOC. How convenient is that?
The bus took a scenic road, not passing any major highways or tolls of any sorts. I saw fields, trees and small houses. The bus driver was a safe driver but there were times it got to near to the buildings. I sat by the window and at times see things that are too near.
*****
Day 1.2: Arrival at Kashiwa, Chiba
After a few stops and about 2 hours later, the bus arrived at its final destination, Kashiwa South exit and Hotel Crest Mae. I got off, got my luggage and waited. It was cold. Very cold. So unlike the aircond back at the office or any client’s place which I have survived well. I was freezing and people were walking pass me looking the least bit cold. My arm warmers weren’t helping. The wind was harsh. Where is Keisei-san?
I cannot imagine my next few days against this weather.
Then I see her, in a car, stopping by the road side. She spoke in Mandarin, slightly laced with China accent and I knew I was partially in trouble since my Mandarin was just no good. She apologized for making me wait but I lied, saying that I only waited for a while although I was fidgeting around, trying to keep my toes warm. I got into the warm car and she explained to me the streets and all. She mentioned that I was very lucky as the sakuras have all bloomed and I was in for a great view.
As we drive back, I memorised the roads like I always do, staring into the streets. The fear that was in me hours ago turned into curiosity. Where was everyone heading? What was the signboard saying? I was eager to get out of the car and start my little adventure exploring the place.
We made a turn pass a tree with white blossoms and I noticed that was where I will be staying. I stepped out of the car, inhaling the fresh air of the slightly chilly weather. As I approach the door, Shu-san, Keisei-san’s husband, came out to help me with the luggage. The first words I spoke were “はじめまして” meaning, first time meeting. He was surprised to know that I spoke little Japanese.
He commented on my luggage, saying that it was “かっこいい” , a term that translates loosely to ‘handsome’. The only word I can say was “お父さん”’s which he found amusing, as it somehow meant that the luggage was my dad. ^^;
I went in and they brought me upstairs to my room. It was a sofa bed and adorned with pink sheets and pillows. I got excited since I rarely had pink stuff in my rooms. Shu-san asked if I liked pink stuff. ピンクすけです!
After getting settled in, Keisei-san introduced me to her mother. I didn’t know how to call her since back home, we just call everyone ‘aunty’. The words that automatically got into my head was “Ah Yee”, the Taiwanese equivalent to ‘aunt’. I called her Ah Yee throughout my stay there. She spoke with heavy Shanghai accent but at least I could understand what she was trying to say.
They made me lunch of fried rice with tomato sauce, fried egg and vegetables. There were loads of things to eat and I was so worried that I will get fat just from staying there. My favourite was the pumpkin salad.
いただきます！
Shu-san asked where did I learn my Japanese from. “自分です”. Everyone was amazed. Not many were willing to pick up a language on their own. But I just do.
Then I told them my little secret. I picked up Japanese all because the (current) love of my life, 嵐. They went “Eh~” and started talking rapidly and Keisei-san went out to get a letter, showing me that it was an Arashi fan club mail. Apparently, they had a guest from Singapore who loved Arashi as well and asked if she could use their address to get into the fan base. Lucky her. Now she can go for Natsucon’s if she gets the tickets.
*****
Day 1.3: Around Kashiwa
Shu-san and Yuki-chan (their daughter) went to the dentist after I finished my meal and I decided to venture around the neighborhood. I armed myself with my purse and camera and started my little trip. It was after lunch so I just walked. I told Keisei-san I would be back in about 2-3 hours time since my rail pass doesn’t start till the next day. She accompanied me to the fork of the road and explained to me where the station was.
いきましょう！
I walked and walked around the area. The first place I need to recognize was the train station. I walked about 15 minutes or so, taking my time and snapping pictures all over the place. I noticed that everywhere you go, there’s traffic lights, pedestrian lights, fire hydrants (yes, I think they like to burn things a lot there) and also, rubbish bins that are separated according to type. Plastic, cans, tins, bottles, combustible, incombustible, recyclable. Every single category of rubbish you can think of. Except for general. =_=;
I managed to get to the train station and walked around there. Just walk and walk and walk.
The place is huge. Even though it’s 30 minutes train ride from Tokyo. It’s just freaking huge, with a Takashiyama.
Then I heard them. My Stormy boys. On the advertisement テレビ, singing Troublemaker. They surely make my ハト goビトドキドキ. ^^
Everywhere I go, I can see them. Japan is just so wonderful!! Just wonderful because I can see them everywhere. Hahaha.
I walked around and after like an hour figuring out how the streets worked, I decided to head back home for a nap.
I ended up at the west side of Kashiwa (I stayed at the south area) and realised, after 15 minutes, that I was officially lost. I had no idea where I was although I did see something familiar. The middle high school! I’ll just follow the direction then I sure can get back.
I walked and walked and now I’m seriously lost. I looked at the neighbourhood maps but the problem was that they were all in Japanese. Kanji.
I’m doomed. And the wind was getting stronger. I think I felt a raindrop.
But I somehow managed to scoot my way back, after non stop walking for about 30 minutes. I managed to make it back one piece and without getting wet.
I now feel so tired. I need to sleep.
I like the feeling when you get home and there’s someone waiting for your return. I guess that’s what the whole mid-20’s crisis is all about. The slight feeling of feeling desperate. Maybe it’s not slight. Maybe it’s really desperate. I don’t know where I stand now. Career?
ただいま。
おかえりなさい。
The feeling of someone anticipating your return is wonderful. Whenever I call out “tadaima” and someone replies “okaerinasai”, it makes you feel belonged. No matter how late you are, there’s always someone waiting for you. I find these 2 words すばらし.
I got home and everyone was at the living area, just lazing around. I sat around, wondering what to do. Then, Shu-san put on some Arashi songs, which I sang along. After a while, Shu-san asked me who I liked in Arashi. In Japanese of course. I was stunned slightly. I didn’t understand most of what he said but I had an idea what he was asking. But who am I gonna answer? I idolized Sho-kun for his wholesome かっこいい-ness but I love Oh-chan for just who he is (who couldn’t??). Of course, my 一番 had always been Sho-kun so I said Sakurai Sho. Then Shu-san commented that Sho-kun was 賜い meaning he was a smart person, which he is.
I decided that I should take a nap. I excused myself and headed to my room. It was rather cool and since I had no idea whether there is a heater in my room (it looked like an air conditioner) and since no one switched on anything downstairs, I just laid on the bed, all cuddled up and slept.
I must have snored because I didn’t dream. I once read that if you don’t dream, you snore. So, I must have snored.
I woke up the same position I fell asleep in, feeling the cold seeping through my clothes despite wearing a heavy jacket and jeans. I cannot imagine how I am going to survive through the night sleeping like this. They won’t torture me right?
I continued rolling on the bed. It was only 4pm. I had no idea what I should be doing. I continued to roll until 5pm and decided that it’s dinner time and I should head downstairs. Everyone was still doing whatever they were doing. Shu-san busying on the パソコン, Yuki-chan playing with her dolls while Ah Yee is busy preparing some stuff.
Keisei-san asked about my occupation and I told her I was an auditor. It seems that we were in the same filed. She was an accountant (judging by how she talked about her work, I believe she’s at least a finance manager) with a well-known food manufacturing company. We talked a lot and now I know why she said we shared similar schedule. I told her before I may have difficulty in getting time off and can’t really confirm the days that I would be arriving.
せの。 いただきます！
We had dinner around 6pm that day. It was a simple meal, with vegetables which Ah Yee planted in her little garden, eggs (Japanese eggs are just much more nicer) and fish stewed in soy sauce. I told them I ate everything and wasn’t a picky eater. Even if I hated something, I would still eat in order not to disappoint my guests. If I liked something, I made sure no one else wants it before I have it. It’s just sheer manners, something which my parents have taught me since young.
Anyway, it was 美味! I giggled a lot while eating, something I do when I eat something yummy. They thought it was カワイイ.^_^;
After that, I volunteered to wash the dishes. It’s just plain manners. People have prepared a meal for you and you should help out in some way. So I wash the dishes.
They got a shock. It seems that no one has ever offered to wash the dishes.
After I did, we watched some TV shows, which surprisingly I understood. I was watching about some celebrities trying to lose weight. I knew some of the celebrities including Japan’s Beyonce and Morisanchuu’s Matsujun fan (I can’t really remember their names but I see them often on Arashi’s variety shows).
It’s amazing what the Japanese can think of to on diet. Sweet potato diet? With sushi?
Pickled vegetables diet? Won’t it just increase your appetite? Apparently they pickle everything =.=;
Salad diet? Now that sounds normal.
Anyway, they all managed to lose weight so I guess the Japanese does have some sense in them.
That night I met up with the other 3 Singaporean girls (2 were staying at Kashiwa while another was staying at Shinagawa) whose names I can only remember one. They were nice and apparently, they were all in the accounting field. Sadly, I’m the only auditor around and I felt “threaten” as they all complained about how annoying auditors were. We’re not annoying! We’re just doing our job!
Then, I took a shower. Japanese baths are totally different from Malaysia’s. Back home, we just switch on the heater and we get hot water. In Japan, it’s more efficient to use gas so they have these bunch of switches. I had no idea how to use the heater so I just sat onto the stool, stare at the mechanisms available, twisted some knobs and hoped that hot water would just flow out.
Hot water did not. Cold water did and my toes were numb for about 2 minutes before hot water started flowing. >’<
After getting a hot water shower, I watched another variety show and that’s when I saw the ad. Johnny’s Entertainment. Someone kill me already. I went ‘kyaa~~’ and that caught everyone’s attention. ミシエルis just so much into Arashi!
It seems that the next day was going to be rainy so I had to cancel my trip to the zoo. Keisei-san suggested that I head down to Shibuya and Harajuku for shopping instead since everywhere is connected and I won’t get caught in the rain. Ok. That wasn’t in my early plan but it will do for now.
Then it was time for bed. Although I had a 2 hour nap, I was still tired. I wished everyone おやすみ and headed to my room. It was time to figure out how to work that heater in my room since the heater in the living area is on. I grab hold of the remote control and stared at it. I saw some familiar characters in Chinese and after 30 minutes of trial and error, I got it to emit warm air. おやすみ!
How obsessed am I with Arashi? Not really…
I got this from a side when I was surfing for Arashi details…you can get the whole post here
Here goes nothing!
- you were baited by Jun-kun – oh yes I was! The Jun bait! All of these started with Hana Yori Dango, then followed by Hana Yori Dango 2 and finally, Hana Yori Dango Final and all these, leaded to the search for ‘One Love’ on youtube. Before I know it, I was obsessed with them. First, it was MatsuJun (I really like his feminine features). Then Aiba-chan, seeing how cute he was with animals. I finally settled on Sho-kun, his manly features (as opposed to Jun’s), his brains, his body (gawks!!). My ichiban. Oh-chan is my ni-ban, being so artistic and his voice! It kills me inside when I hear him sing. I just like Nino’s dramas. I find him too cunning for my liking 😛
- anything over 49kg is “fat” – sigh. Japanese girls are too thin!! I’m reaching there! Wait for me!!
- the best dancer in Johnny’s is Ohno, period – this is one thing I have to agree!!
- you’re forever daydreaming and imagining…about Arashi and you – yeah! they are the reason I start writing again!!
- you save for NatsuCon…the whole year, 2 years, 10 years, etc – I would love to see one but sigh, their concerts are had to get!
- only true idols get extremely popular after putting stockings over their head, wearing nipples shirts and daisy dukes – only them!!
- you’re envious of the Arashi FC members – duh! They get the best bits!!
- you’re envious of anyone that lives in japan – duh!! I wanna marry a Japanese if I can!!
- every time a new single comes out, you bounce around the room in joy and watch the PV (promotional video) 19074546 times – I’m not that extreme. I tend to be very, very late in getting updated 😛
- despite how poor you are, somehow you manage to buy all albums/singles – I did only for 5×10…:P
- the first kanji you memorized is 嵐 – “arashi” – nah…I memorised my name first…I was already a Japan lover long before Arashi appeared…:P
- and then the kanji of all the members’ names – again, I don’t…but I did after I memorised Arashi…hey, I can read Chinese, just not sure what they are called in kanji 😛
- when speaking japanese you only know “male” dominates words such as “omae” “umai” “kuse” – sigh, my friends are beginning to find me annoying for yakking in Japanese more of the time
- eating expired food is not crazy at all, but funny – this is warui! Oh-chan could really get a diarrhea one day!!
- when someone mentions ‘Bambi’, it’s Sho or Jun that you think of, not the Disney movie – yeah! I no longer remember adorable Bambi the deer!!
- no matter how many times, you always cry when watching Aiba read his letter on 24 hr TV – I cried once…and that was it…><
- you want a pet and his name is Momo – who has a pet named Momo?
- you name things after Arashi such as pets, computers, your external HD – I’m not that obsessed! My bunny’s name is Shirou…just Japanese 😛
- The Sims is a game you started just so you can have characters named after Arashi – I have stopped playing Sims for such a long time.
- the best university in all of Japan is Keio, period – I guessed it is. I actually went and did a check if they had post grad studies cos I thought of doing it there…can you believe me??
- you’ve bought a baby blue DS – if I had one, I think I would never leave it even if Sho-kun strips naked in front of me…
- you didn’t know Jun was the youngest – I thought Nino was at first
- you didn’t know Ohno was the oldest – I though Sho-kun was at first…riida just doesn’t look his age right?
- before Arashi, S&M was disturbing. Now it’s just an everyday part of life – not the sexual part but I like a S type of guy…
- one of the main reasons your computer lives is to download Arashi stuff – in fact, it just finished downloading DnA 40
- you’ve cried after your hard drive crashed – I nearly but lucky I had backup!!
- no matter how many times you burn things off, your hard drive is always full – yeah! Although I don’t watch them again after that, I just want to keep them for the sake of keeping them…
- you’ve sat your friends down and began the history on Arashi – I still remember Pei Shan asking, ‘Aren’t you done obsessing about them?’ and I went on yakking about them and how truly I like them…:P
- your friends can put names to faces – they only remember my ichiban cos I keep repeating about him in front of them almost every day.
- when asked if you have a boyfriend, you have casually said “yes” and pictured one of the members – too bad, I haven’t gone to that extreme yet…daydreaming yes, denying reality no.
- you wish that Johnny’s stuff wouldn’t be so expensive – yeah!! 5 x10 cost me RM200!! That’s 5 times the price of a regular CD here!! Even an uchiwa is RM50!!
- spent it 5 minutes after you vowed this because a new photo album came out – I don’t really chase after goodies 😛
- there is an Arashi photo that you see everyday – on a car, pencil case, wallet, planner… – it’s on my desktop wallpaper…I need to see them everyday or else my day can’t start…
- your cell phone wallpaper is Arashi – nah, it’s my pic…or else I’ll start changing their pics almost everyday…
- your cell phone ring tone is Arashi – my friends can now tell the difference between a ring tone and a message tone because it sounds foreign. Kitto Daijoubu is on now 😛
- Aiba has the best English in all of Japan – I so have to disagree! I just like ‘Big danger’.
- December 24th is not Christmas Eve, it is “Aiba’s Birthday” – it’s my mum’s bday 😛
- when going to karaoke you sing at least 1 Arashi song. AT LEAST. – yes! When now I can read hiragana and they are putting more of their songs!!
- when singing in the car or anywhere, you MUST follow the hand motions during the chorus…unconsciously yea! x3 – I can never remember their furi.
- you’ve been jealous of animals – yes! Especially those that hug Aiba and those that are in photoshoots!!
- you read “asahi” as “arashi” – I drink so I don’t get confused 😛
- the best actor in Japan is Nino, period. In Asia! Period! – Yes!!! My favourite so far is Step Up!!
- short guys is DEFINITELY okay – yes but not too short. Thank god I’m short!! I’m only 152cm so I’m right for all 5 members!!
- guys with bad skin is okay too –make up works right?
- guys skinnier than me, that’s okay too – yes!! Just enjoy my wobbly bits.
- Arashi is the best group, ever. when someone says “captain” or “leader”, the first person you think of is Ohno – yeah…riida!!
- sometimes you hear “Nino” instead of “Nemo” – my ears have not turned deaf on me.
- therefore you buy Nemo things thinking of Nino – my eyesight has yet to go blind.
- Ohno should be a world-renowned artist – true, I have to agree.
- you’ve come to tolerate/love other Johnny’s artists because of Arashi – I still don’t like Kanjani8 😛
- you’ve pulled all-nighters to wait for videos, scans, reports – I need my beauty sleep. So I just wait…impatiently.
- sometimes you wonder if Arashi are idols or comedians or cute little kids – I just love them as the dorkable dorks ever.
- you start off with a favorite Arashi song, but soon after you can’t decide – yeah! But I still love Believe.
- you plan on going to Japan because of Arashi – didn’t I mentioned I wanted to go to Japan to watch a NatsuCon at first?
- you start giggling to yourself after finding something “Japanese” – I’m even trying to turn Japanese!!
- when you meet someone Japanese the first thing you want to do is ask is whether they know Arashi – no lah! Hazukashi ne!!
- Nino should be a professional song writer – don’t you just like the songs he writes? I like the Fight Song!!
- the only man that can pull off a belly button ring is Sho – on those hunky abs!
- neon-colored suits are completely acceptable for any occassion – not at where I work…
- when someone says “tension” you think “Aiba” – yeah…I even started that word more because of Aiba!!
- your parents know Arashi songs and the members’ name – sigh, they think I’ve gone bonkers.
- gotten into a fight with siblings about Arashi – they think I’ve gone bonkers too.
- have arashi posters but won’t put them up because you’re afraid you’ll ruin them – now you mentioned it, I want one!
- when people pronounces Nino’s name wrong it annoys you – so far, no one around me really knows about him. They just know I like them.
- like to yell out “YEAH!” at the end of things
- like to yell out “DO IT!” as your motivation
- fancams are heaven sent.
- you buy CDs but listen to download versions because you don’t want to open your album copy – that’s what happened to my 5×10
- you wish you could befriend Ohno’s mom – yeah! then I can learn out more about Oh-chan!
- many times you have looked down at their pants and have been pleasantly surprised. Now you can’t stop looking there – especially Oh-chan’s…pervy me.
- you are envious of people like Inoue mao, Suzuki Ann and Ayoi Yu.
- you have gone down the list of “requirements for arashi’s girlfriend/wife” and started to change certain aspects of yourself so you have more points – well, I almost qualify as Sho’s!
- Guys who paint their nails are okay – still not ok with me…
- Don’t mind the fact that the guy owns 100000X more clothes than you – we can share after that!!
- Watching several Japanese variety shows a wekk without understanding any Japanese, just to watch their faces is absolutely normal – I’m learning my Jap, I’m learning!
- You don’t listen to English songs anymore because you listen to Arashi all the time – yeah! My list is only Arashi, Arashi and more Arashi!! But I still listen to the radio when I’m driving 😛
- You get to have a new set of friends (online) because of Arashi – yeah, CatDinga, Indy, Azlina, Lele, Cherrie, Doris!
- The songs you play over and over again in your mp3 is Arashi’s.
- Ordered Skinny Latte coffee takeout from Starbucks so that they can write “SK” on the cup and told them your name’s “Ohmiya” – Haha…I’ve yet to try this.
- Guys who can cross their legs are totally acceptable.
- You watched Gokusen / Kimi Wa Petto / Bambino / Tokyo Tower / Hana Yori Dango 1&2 / etc. just for MatsuJun. Guys kissing / hugging each other / holding hands is no problem now – I think the whole skinship only works with Arashi 😛
So, how obsessed am I? I think I’m still at controllable level. Kekeke…
Homestay
One of the things that I worry the most is accommodation. Tour agencies get the best rates since they have connections with the hotels and such. Tokyo is known to have one of the highest living cost in the world. So, considering my lowly budget, I would have to give up a little luxury.
Most ryokans do not have private baths and that means I would have to share a public bath within the ryokan itself or those that are within the area. Now, that idea sorta appeal to me at first but the thought of exposing myself to everyone for more than one time is a bit creepy. I’m already uncomfortable stripping down to my underwear for a massage session, let alone to bath.
The prices weren’t cheap as well. They cost above 4,000 yen for a single person . I’m like…hah?? 4,000 yen was the equivalent of RM152 per night (I’m using the rate of RM3.80 to every 100 yen). So, 6 nights would be…erm…RM912!! And without a private toilet ><.
I was beginning to have second thoughts when I stumbled upon some site suggesting homestay. I thought to be eligible for homestay in Japan, you need to be a student or plan to stay for a long period of time. Just out of curiousity, I clicked on the link that page offered. Homestayweb offers free service to find a host family around the world. You can even choose to be a host.
I registered and posted an ad on to the bulletin board and within 24 hours, I got 2 replies. The first reply was from a guy in Kagoshima. The place was really not in my map but he explained some of the things to look forward in summer.
The other reply from a lady in Kashiwa, Chiba. When she mentioned that her house was 15 minutes away from the nearest train station, I wondered if it was convenient at all. I had thought of staying in Tokyo itself since it would be more convenient. I didn’t get any replies from those I sent messages either.
The lady from Kashiwa, known as Jo, was understanding when I told her that I can’t confirm now due to my work commitment and also because of the air tickets. I have confidence about getting leave next year (they can’t allocate me out if my leave’s already blocked) but not the air tickets though. Right now, MAS is having promotion and the air tickets costs only about RM1.3k (apparently, the offer is off now and the normal price costs about RM2.1k). So, now the only thing holding me back are the air tickets, which I hope can be settled soon enough. Argh…
But still, I decided to book the rooms in advance. Type type type and there…I’m booked from 4 April to 12 April! I’ve settled the whole accommodation thing. Next time, I’ll start posting on my ryokan accomodation.
Updated on 2/1/2010 (Yeah! It’s been that long since I last started this post in 14/8/2009)
The other day, Jannie was asking me about bag packing on your own. So I guess I’ll include some pointers on how you should do it
- First is to start with the location of your stay. Where is more convenient for you? City, town or suburbs.
- Find the best possible accommodation: hotel, motel, apartment, homestays.
- Contact the person and get the details. Like me, it’s better to make sure there’s language support or you’ll be like a chicken and duck talking.
- Then get details from people who stayed there. My hosts have a number of people who stayed with them. This at least gives you a sense of comfort.
- Then make your bookings.
Voila! That’s how you start with accommodation! Enjoy!
My escapade 2010
2009 proves to be the most unlucky year for my finances. Simply because I signed up for something that costs roughly 3 and 1/2 months of my meager pay. But the results are showing so it’s all worth it. Wahaha! Lookout world for the new Michiru!
This is also one year that I have not been overseas. The plans suggested were really out of my budget. And lucky I did reject the idea or else I would be even more broke than ever. I was already struggling for the past 2 months due to my overspending (the yukata and limited edition CD are all worth the deprieved weekends of nothing but youtube).
I made a resolution this year to have sometime for myself and I seriously wanted to go for a trip this year or next. At first, I thought of Korea but no one entertained my idea (everyone’s either starting with work – thus low pay or ran out of leaves due to exams or I just find those that are interested annoying). Then I thought, why not make my dream come true and watch an Arashi concert? Ah. It can’t happen. Apparently it’s difficult to get tickets. Japan fans are fanatic =.=;.
Then I thought of visiting the lavender fields and scoured online for great deals. There weren’t really good deals anyway. I pay for transportation and accomodation but yet I still have to fork out my own daily expenses. It would all costs about RM8k – RM10k. That would be like another 3 and 1/2 months of my pay. And, the itinerary were more for ojisans and obasans.
Then it hit me. Why not go backpacking and plan my own itinerary? It would be free and easy and I can do whatever I want, go wherever I feel like going and I can even do it own my own! The only disad would be having no one to cam whore with me. But that’s not going to be a problem. I can always grab someone there to do it with me.
Where to? My lifetime dream: JAPAN!
So my planning begins. The first thing is to start with the date. When am I going? I don’t want it to be late since I’m already deprieved of a trip this year. Why not April when the peak begins to tail off? And considering my job allocation, it would be just right.
Spring. The best time of the year to do hanami, when cherry blossoms or sakura bloom. It coincides with my birthday, which fell on the first day of Spring according to the Chinese calendar. What more can I ask for?
The first thing that came into my mind was accomodation. Where do I stay? Look out at my next post on how my accomodation problems will be settled…
E no Michiru #1
Experiment no Michiru #1 now begins! (I think this has been influenced by watching too much A no Arashi and D no Arashi).
It all started when Joanne asked how many grapes would be required to make 300gms of raisins (we were all having raisins then since it was the next best thing to munch on). Definitely a few big bunches I told her since raisins are dried up and should have limited amount of moisture in them. Then another question popped up. If we add back water to the raisins, would it expand back into the original size of a grape?
At first, I thought it was impossible since those things are like dried up but then someone said that it is possible but maybe not to the original size. So we put it to the test.
We did the experiment with 2 black raisins (which were very, very dried up since we keep opening the container) and a green raisin, which lack of moisture but very sweet.
You can see from the first pic the graps were like small and dried up. We placed them in a container of water for about 3 days I think (it started on Tuesday). At first, bubbles were popping out from the grape itself. Joanne said air was pushing out to let water in (?!). It got a little bigger but the black raisins still looked the same.
Then on Thursday, it got to a size that won’t expand anymore. It was getting squishy too.
Today (Friday, 9.15am), I fished them out of the container as it was attracting way too much attention at my workdesk. Who soaks raisins? Well, CEO’s mum does as it seems that drinking raisin water was apparently good for health.
I’ve come to this conclusion: It’s possible for dried up raisins to absorb water but it will not expand to its original size. It think its because of the molecular structure which may have been torn down, being exposed to heat and air. So, it can only expand to a certain extend.
Has anyone tried to soak it for more than 3 days? Would like to know the results! ^^
Updated 26.6.2009, sometime at night
It seems that being removed from water and left alone, the water that was absorbed evaporated rather fast. Furthermore, the 2 black raisins became even drier while the green one became soft and squishy as compared to its initial stage.
I come to another conclusion that it’s impossible to have raisins absorb back moisture and it will became even drier after so. I believe it’s because of the sugar content. It must have disolve in the water and evaporated.
Michiru's stories *^^* 