Hiroshima was a beautiful place. I instantly noticed a difference in the people. They were more relaxed than the people in Osaka and seemed to be in no rush to be anywhere. As I was walking along the river, the locals were enjoying the beautiful weather as much as I was and admiring the sakura. As I was walking towards the peace museum, I felt the air was filled with history and heartache and I was nervous to find out what I was about to enter. Although I had learned about Hiroshima and what it represented in high school, nothing could prepare me for this. The museum was very real and very surreal. It was shocking to understand the history behind august the 6th in 1945 and hear how people suffered during that time. I understand why the people seem truly happy and relaxed in this city.

Japanese Garden

After following very confusing directions, we finally arrived at the Japanese garden. From the moment we walked in, there was a sense of calmness in the air. Although the garden was full of tourists and locals, I felt like I was the only one there. I had previously imagined what a traditional Japanese garden would be like and this exceeded my expectations. My head was clear and my body was relaxed as I walked through the garden. At the end of the experience I thought to myself, typical. Only the Japanese could create something like this. Only across the large brick fence was the hustle and bustle of Hiroshima city, yet inside was clam and tranquil. The two extremes of Japan.

Sweets paradise

Sweets paradise! I can not believe this place exists! Although we had to wait for forty minutes, it was definitely worth it. I have never eaten so much in 90 minutes. What surprised me the most was how civil the Japanese people were. They were umming and aarrgghing over which cake to eat first and what the topic of conversation was going to be next. Seven of us went together and when we finally got a table inside, there was no time for conversation. Each person probably consumed two big plates of four different kinds of pasta, half a pizza, garlic bread, two bowls of ice cream, three big plates of cakes and cookies, seven jelly cups and four drinks. This was a sight to see!

Having studied the history of Japan in my first year of university, I was excited have the opportunity to visit where the history took place. Osaka castle was beautiful. Walking through the path with Japanese plum trees on one side and cherry trees on the other was a beautiful lead up to the castle. The castle perfectly represents the Japanese architecture.

Cooking class!

On Sunday the 24th, I went to cooking class with my two host sisters. We cooked a traditional meal to celebrate Hinamatsuri. The Japanese people put so much time and effort into preparation of meals. The presentation of food is just as important, if not more important than the actual taste of the food. I was amazed at the detail in which they present a meal. After three hours of preparing, cooking and displaying, the end result was magnificent.

After one month

It has taken me over one month, but I have finally come to terms with the fact that Japanese people don’t mind waiting. However I am not Japanese. And I do not like to wait. There is a line for everything! There is a line for the rest rooms, buying a ticket, boarding the train, standing in the train, getting off the train, restaurants, coffee places, ice cream shops, crepe shops, lawsons, family mart, 7/11. It comes as a surprise when I see chairs in front of restaurants. In Melbourne, it is unheard of to wait for food or drinks. It makes me realize how patient the Japanese really are.