Returning to Japan: A New Year, A Fresh Start

Fall semester 2011 at Kansai Gaidai seems like a distant memory.  I survived Japanese level one, I learned how to do Japanese Brush Painting, and I came home with a journal full of stories.  I went home to the US for our break, and after a few weeks being back, I've noticed some differences in the way I'm feeling about being in Japan, as compared to last semester.

My first semester at Kansai Gaidai can be described with: wonder, excitement, and fun.  However, reflecting on last semester, I must be honest and say that I spent the majority of my time with international students in Hirakata.

I made a lot of observations about Japanese culture. But that is just the thing.  I never really got past the point of observation.  I spent the semester comfortable in a group of English speaking friends, observing Japan and its people.  Yes, I saw great cinema.  Yes, I met for lunch with my speaking partner.  Yes, I saw temples.  But I am realizing that I did not take advantage of the rich information and culture around me.  I'm re-evaluating my initial impressions of Japan, because some are merely broad generalizations and stereotypes that I did not take the time to break down.

I've reflected honestly on my experience in Japan thus far, and I wouldn't change a thing because last semester was one of the best periods of my life. However, I want to push myself out of my comfort zone now.  I want my photographs to involve people, rather than mostly foreign objects and food.  I want to learn others' stories and hear about what drives them.  I want this semester to be about building relationships, understanding differences, and participating in Japanese culture (and not just Karaoke, however fun it may be).  I want my Japanese to improve, so my interactions can be more than fleeting and formal conversations. 

I also find a certain sense of beautiful irony in the fact that I have come to Japan and am meeting people from all over the world.  This is a unique situation I may never be in again.  I want to know the stories of my peers, because everybody has one, unique and perhaps surprising.

Below you will find some of my favorite images from last semester that I feel lucky to have captured.  I hope that the coming photographs will embody a greater sense of depth, sincerity, and humanity.

Two Girls Posing for the Camera at Dangiri Festival, Osaka

A Friendly Woman who was Interested in our Foreign Origins, Osaka

A Ray Being Admired by Spectators at the Aquarium in Osaka

Men Marching Next to Their Cart at the Dangiri Festival

Miyajima's Torii