It was quite a long way. First I had to get from my city to Moscow which took 24 hours by train. By airplane it would be only 2 hours – oh yes, Russian trains are slow! – but I took a train to save money. In Moscow I received my passport with Japanese visa in the travel agency, and then there was still long time before my flight. I was very nervous and worried like a fool about numerous fictional obstacles that could arise unexpectedly. What if I don’t pass control in the airport or my visa is wrong somehow? In addition, my face looked awful because of allergic rash. What if they don’t let me on board, mistaking it for some dangerous infection? Maybe I’d better wear a mask? I am really stupid and over-panicky when it comes to such things. Luckily, now I usually travel together with my daughter who takes things much calmer and tries to comfort me as well.
At last it was over, and I was in the airplane. A huge Airbus, first time in my life! The flight from Moscow to Tokyo takes almost 10 hours, actually the whole night. I was scared only a little in the beginning, but then… just looking for ways to spend time and trying to sleep. Flying to the East, we saw sunrise very early and headed further towards the sun. And then after crossing the sea it was there below: all neatly divided into squares, with tiny ships along the coastline.
Japan! I am in Japan! Nobody came to meet me in the airport, but I remembered the instructions of my friend: “First you should take Narita Express to Tokyo and there change to Tokaido Line, orange colour, to get to your hotel.” Very good and clear explanation. Only there was no railway. Really! I went out of Narita building, looked around but there was nothing except highway. Where is the train? I returned inside and asked a man wearing uniform: “Where is the train?” That time I knew only very few words and phrases in Japanese – enough to ask a question but not enough to understand the asnwer. Luckily, in Narita everybody can speak English, so he readily taught me what to do: “Go down there please”. The railway station was underground! I still had to get used to it. In Japan many things are underground, like shopping centers, stations, parkings and so on.
The first challenge was over, and I felt more confident. I got to my station without any difficulties, easily found the way to the hotel by map, and at the front desk they handed me my rented mobile phone which had been already delivered. I took a shower, changed clothes and went out to explore the town.
It was really hot. Of course everybody warned me about it beforehand, but now I felt it in full measure. Japanese summer heat is just different from that of our climate zone. The sun is burning fiercely, and you need to drink very often. Luckily, drinks are available everywhere from those helpful vending machines. Most unusual for me were very early sunset (7 p.m. in August) and the fact that it didn’t get cooler even at night. Here in Russia twilight can last almost until midnight in summer, and evenings are usually cool. Well, now I like both ways! I had a great pleasure walking along evening streets, feeling hot air and looking around curiously. So many little restaurants and shops with food – food was everywhere! Parking lots for bicycles! Everything was new and strange, but I never felt lost, scared or lonely, even alone in the crowd. It was rather safe, relaxed and excited. Feeling of Japan… so special for me. From the very first day and every time afterwards, I feel happy when I am there. Just happy. Every moment.
To be continued…
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