Arrival in Japan

I departed from Frankfurt to Tokyo at 18:05 in Germany. As always, such a long flight feels like it lasts forever (10.5 hours). At least this time I managed to watch a few movies on the plane ^^ Additionally, I had a great seatmate from Jerusalem with whom I had a fantastic conversation :)

After finally surviving those 10.5 hours, we landed in Tokyo. When I got up from the plane, it was really difficult not to bump into anyone with my backpack because I had so much carry-on luggage (a pretty heavy backpack, a laptop bag, and a stuffed animal under one arm). But somehow, everything worked out.

Then, I went to the baggage claim with my seatmate because my luggage couldn't be checked through due to customs -.-

Before that, we had to go through passport control to get our entry stamp, and we faced the first problem there. They didn't give us those cards that foreigners usually get on the plane. That means we went to the counters to get the form, then go away and fill it out. After that was finally done, I went back to the counter. There, I was explained that he couldn't handle it because he wasn't responsible for long-term stays (one year), and then I was sent to the next counter. It took a few moments there because I got my Residence Card. But at least now I have my most important Japanese identification document ^^

Then, I boarded the next flight to Chitose Sapporo. Unfortunately, it was slightly delayed... Thank God someone from my host family picked me up. They then drove me to Kutchan. There, I was introduced to the rest of the host family. The grandparents, the four children with their spouses, and also the eight grandchildren. They told me all the names during dinner last night, but I think I've already forgotten half of them v.v

The kindergarten already looks really nice from the outside! And the Buddhist temple on the premises looks super cool :)

My room is in the host family's house, and I have a lot of space. A large room, a large kitchen, and an additional washroom with a separate space for shower and toilet. It's really spacious, considering that it's always said that the rooms are so small.

Today, Noriko, the host mother, was so kind and brought me breakfast, and it was really a lot o.O At least for breakfast.  

Well, apart from that, today I will get to know all the staff members of the kindergarten and go shopping again. So that I can finish setting up completely.

There's nothing more to tell at the moment... Actually, I have a lot more to tell, but otherwise the entry would become too long ^^'

Therefore, I wish you all a great day and a lot of fun reading :)

Best regards from Japan!

Janina