So, I lived in Tokyo for almost two years. Given, I was in other places for nearly half of that time. It’s great, it’s annoying, it’s fun, but can be sedate. Just about everyone I know who has lived here (females anyway) don’t say that they adore it. Men, and women who are into Japanese guys absolutely love it here. There are tons of things to do and places to see. I never had time to get to everything I wanted to do. I would have spent more time out, but I just couldn’t stand to hear “iraishamasse” over and over again everywhere I went. I couldn’t bear the clicking of a thousand bow-legged girls in heels stomping around on the sidewalk. I think that a lot of foreigners come here with misconceptions: it is not the fuedal Japan that you see in movies and it is not just rows and rows of beautiful zen gardens and temples. It’s mostly just a concrete jungle full of bland, bleak buildings that all look the same. If you are lucky enough to live within the Yamanote line, you have easy access to just about anything in the city. If you have the grave misfortune of living out in the suburbs, be prepared for hours of time spent smashed on the trains against drunk businessmen.

Now, on to the good things. Efficiency and customer service. There is something to be said for the quick and consistent service that you can invariably recieve in Japan. No matter where I have been in the country, I always am greeted when I enter most establishments. Sometimes by every single employee. If I ever ask for something, someone will literally run to get it for me. Even in a gas station, you will get a very enthusiastic greeting and top of the line service. Try getting that in the states! Most people in menial service positions in America will treat you as if you owe them something, not the other way around.

And, oh… I could go on and on about sushi. I adore it and will miss it more than anything else here.

So, there, that’s it. There are so many good and bad things about this place. I tried really hard to love it. I explored, I learned, I even took Japanese, but I realized it just wasn’t for me. So, I’m moving back to Europe!