My 2024 began with the most amazing opportunity, getting a chance to explore the land of the rising sun. My family and I were filled with excitement as we headed to Delhi International Airport on the evening of January 16th, 2024. While I felt a bit nervous about travelling alone and to a country where I didn’t speak the language, the warmth and kindness of the Japanese people quickly dispelled any apprehensions. Thanks to the orientation organized by ‘Youth For Understanding’ in Tokyo, I not only learned some basic Japanese but also gained valuable insights into Japanese culture. Post the orientation completion, a YFU volunteer accompanied me from Tokyo to Osaka, to meet my host family and embark on the next chapter of my journey.
Host family
Upon arriving in Osaka, I looked at my host mother and I knew I was going to have the best time ever with the Koba; they were the most loving, caring and amazing host family I could ask for. The family consisted of mom, dad, elder sister and brother. My mom worked at a rice factory, along with managing the house, I was in awe of how much she managed. Having a brother my age was a blessing, he took me to central Osaka to meet his friends. My sister though was busy with university and working but still spent some time with me which I’ll cherish for a long time. The Koba’s shared a fondness for food and had me try a variety of food I probably wouldn’t have ever tried by myself but I enjoyed every single one of them. I also had the opportunity to meet my mom’s relatives who lived close by, in a traditional Japanese home and they kept sending traditional Japanese food for me. They prepared surimi for me; a type of fish ball which is either fried or boiled, alongside numerous other dishes. I will forever be grateful for the Koba’s and can’t wait to meet them again.
School
My high school was called Hannan University Senior High School, it was just a 20-minute walk from home. My classmates and teachers all were very accepting and helpful. During my time at school, I got to experience multiple activities and sports and also saw Japanese sports Karate, Judo and kendo, I was amazed by the level of skill required. I also got to experience the Japanese tea ceremony and the Karuta card game during after-school clubs. I had a fantastic time with my friends. English lessons were great fun because I helped my classmates learn English while they helped me with Japanese. Thanks to my friends, classmates and teachers I never missed home. On the last day my friends, brother and I went out for ramen together and they all got goodbye presents for me. I will always remember my time at this school and all the wonderful memories I created here.
