When You Wander

My time in Japan is flying by faster than I could have imagined. Today, I chose to decompress, reflect, and write this post while indulging in a latte from a newly explored neighborhood, Taisho.

Two months. It’s already been over two months since I moved to Osaka, Japan. Didn’t I just arrive to Kansai International Airport yesterday, tired and excited, lugging my 130+ pounds of belongings optimistically behind me? Where did the time go?

I haven’t been doing much sitting around, that’s for sure. (If you don’t believe me, check out those FitBit stats). In fact, I think the only sitting around I’ve done has been to write this blog. (Or to commute to Kakogawa for work…but I’ll save that for another time).

So what exactly has been going on since February 4th?

Well, there have been hiking trips, tons of exploration, park gatherings, events and parties, and fun nights out downtown. My short time here has already been incredibly special and full of many adventures. I’m especially grateful for the many fantastic people I’ve met through ECC.

There has been learning, so much learning! I know how to teach English to anyone old enough to talk. At 1.5 years old, they start `em young (and adorable) at ECC! I can successfully navigate the subway system and get where I want to go. I know my neighborhood, Daikokucho, and know it well. I have a supermarket and a laundromat  and a gym. I can tell you where my favorite ramen place is and the restaurant chain that I recommend for delicious, cheap Curry. I also know how to online order Domino’s and McDonald’s delivery for when desperation (or laziness) set in.

In two months, Osaka has become my home. I feel comfortable and accepted, fascinated and amazed. I may be mastering my own neighborhood, but Osaka is a BIG place. I have yet to travel beyond the Kansai Region. It makes Japan seem even more enormous.

During my first backpacking trip in 2011, I managed to visit five countries (and seven major cities) in less than four weeks. It was an UNBELIEVABLE trip, but extremely rushed as you can imagine. Living in Japan allows me to do things differently this time around. Unlike going on a vacation, I now have more time to take my time. I love that.

After today, I can mark Taisho off the list. An Osaka ward I never knew existed before today, it includes a perfect mix of artsy-grunge, scenic canals, a suburban city atmosphere, and a family friendly feel. I will definitely return, especially for a baseball game!

Some of the artwork that lined a major intersection in the Taiso ward.

One of the many canals Taiso has to offer. This one in particular gave quite the scenic view when mixed with cherry blossom trees and a setting sun.

Two months since my big move to Japan… One thing that has yet to change? There are still the random bouts of shock. “I live here. Wait… I live here?!” Yeah, I’m not sure that will ever go away.