| It didn't
take us long to realize we weren't in our little rural community anymore!
We knew, of course, that Japan would be different, but until you've experienced
it first hand, you can't even imagine... We're really enjoying our time
here. There's an infinite number of things to do and see! We
learned rather quickly that the easiest way to travel within the country
is by train. Traffic is unbelievable! At any given time, it can take up
to 5 hours to drive 30 miles! Luckily most of the train route maps are
in English, so finding your way around isn't too bad.
We've done quite a bit of sightseeing
during our stay here. Being so near to Tokyo, we have had a chance to experience
a lot of "Japanese culture", as well as spend way too much yen. But
we are also a pleasant drive away from some of the beautiful scenery and
nature of our host country. Sara's students enjoy showing us a lot
of the local attractions, and it's nice being with someone that can get
around with ease!
Doug, his sister Chelsea, and some
friends climbed Mt. Fuji in the summer of 1998. It was definitely
an experience they'll never forget! It is something everybody that
has a chance should do once, but any more than that and people might question
your sanity! The climb was really very interesting. It took
them about 8 hours to get to the top (12,395 ft.). They had to constantly
zig-zag up the side the volcano. The terrain changed quite often.
In some areas they had to climb some hefty boulders. Other areas
were more level, but the rocky trail was so loose they had a hard time
keeping their balance.
Probably the hardest part of being
in Japan is the language barrier. We've picked up a little Japanese,
but not nearly enough to communicate fluently!! |
