Introduction

I just realized that I haven't introduced myself yet ... that's why there is an extra post here now v.v

First of all, that's actually me in the pictures. The pictures are from my first trip to Japan in March 2018 and I was so happy that I bought the Furisode Kimono for myself. During my visit to Kitsuki, the Samurai City, I took the opportunity to wear the newly purchased kimono all by myself, without any help. It was such a cool feeling when all the Japanese praised me for wearing the kimono and obi on my own, and doing it correctly.

Now, let me introduce myself ... my name is Janina and I'm 21 years old. I study Japanology at the Goethe University in Frankfurt and I'm totally fascinated by Japan!

I've been studying Japanology for two years now. But since I haven't reached the language level I wanted to achieve, I decided to do a voluntary social year in Japan. That's why I specifically chose the small town of Kutchan (15,000 inhabitants) in Hokkaido (as I mentioned in my first post), because there are no other volunteers and hardly anyone speaks English, let alone German.

In general, I think my approach is the right one, but it's really scary to know that I can hardly communicate. That's why I'm feeling quite nervous at the moment, especially because I only have four days left until I fly out and my Japanese is not really secure. On top of that, my suitcases are not packed yet; I've been struggling with myself all the time about what I actually need to take with me and what not. (It feels like I've already unpacked and repacked my suitcases at least five times ... either it was too heavy or something was missing or I changed my mind again. That doesn't help to calm my nerves at all ...)

Thankfully, I'll arrive a few days before I start work, so I still have some time to settle in. Now I just hope that nothing goes wrong and that my flight is on time for once ...

In addition to my interest in Japan, I also love reading fantasy books and I enjoy giving book recommendations to my friends (so we can have nice discussions about books!^^). One of my biggest passions is crafts, everything that goes with it. Crocheting, embroidery, knitting, sewing. Especially sewing has captured my heart, which may be because I've been a cosplayer for about 5 years now. That's why I actually started sewing because my pride didn't allow me to walk around in a bought cosplay. (Although I have to admit that my first one was bought to give it a try v.v)

That pretty much sums it up. Of course, I have many more hobbies and engage in many other things. But if I were to list everything here, I wouldn't finish until tomorrow.

If anyone is interested in seeing one of my cosplays or wants to know more about it, just write it in a comment and I will - as far as possible - go into more detail in one of my future posts.

As always, if you have any questions or suggestions, just write them down in a comment below. I'm also happy to receive feedback!

Thank you for reading and your interest :)

Best regards

Janina