Exploring Japan: A Disciple of Discipline and Discovery

Travelling to Japan is an absolute must for anyone who seeks a deeper understanding of a disciplined and meticulously organized society. I, Anaiah Lei, have had the privilege to visit Japan multiple times for both professional and personal reasons, and my experiences have only fueled my admiration for the country.

Japan in the Making

My first encounter with Japan was in 1998, when I conducted a week-long technical training in Tokyo. On my first day, I was taken aback by the sight of many men living in cardboard boxes in train stations. This was a stark reminder of the financial crisis Japan had faced. My guide later informed me that Japan, known for its discipline and order, had suffered a severe economic downturn, leading to such unfortunate living conditions.

Visiting Japan: The Gil and Dhaguchi Approach

Over the years, I've revisited Japan a few times, each experience bringing its unique blend of training, sightseeing, and cultural immersion. In 2007, I attended a conference in Yokohama, and in 2010, I spent a brief visit in Tokyo before returning to Yokohama for another conference. In early 2013, I stayed overnight in Osaka, engaging in a memorable sightseeing trip with a friend, before departing for a conference in Indonesia.

Future Plans and Aspirations

As the world recovers from the pandemic, my desire to travel to Japan grows stronger. Despite never having been there before, I find immense appeal in Japan's disciplined society and its welcoming atmosphere. Since the country opened its borders to tourists in 1854, it has garnered a reputation as a beautiful, safe, and hospitable place. My friends there have surely exposed me to different dimensions of Japanese culture and society, a theme often explored in YouTube videos and other media.

Desire to Live in Japan

While I have not yet made Japan my home, I have a strong yearning to live there someday. Japan is not just a country, but a culture that values discipline, respect, and harmony. It offers opportunities for both professional growth and personal enrichment. If I were to move there, I would approach it with the same level of respect and humility with which I view it now as a tourist.

A Bow to Biteriness

My goal as a prospective Japanese resident is to show genuine interest, a positive attitude, and respect for the Japanese culture. I would treat the country and its citizens with the same respect I would show to family, considering them like extended family. My language use would also reflect this, as I have a habit of being extra polite and formal, something that might seem strange to those familiar with my usual casual speech.

For instance, when asked a casual question like, 'What are you drinking?', my response would be, 'I am drinking water.' Similarly, when asked, 'What is your major?', I would respond, 'My major is Linguistics.' This formal style is not a reflection of my lack of education or a joke, but rather a way for me to show respect and maintain humility.

My love for Japan cannot be overstated, and I am excited about the possibility of living in a country that values education, respect, and unity as much as it does discipline and organization.