I came to Japan in March 2017, and it’s hard to believe that two years have passed so quickly. Looking back now, I have created a variety of memories over these two years. There were sad and tough times, but there were also many enjoyable and happy moments. Since I can’t write about everything in this composition, I would like to share the most memorable things about Japan.

Before coming to Japan, my knowledge of Japan was limited to what I learned through the internet, TV programs, and other media. At that time, my impression of Japan was limited to Mount Fuji, cherry blossoms, sushi, and hardworking and serious Japanese people. These were just superficial aspects of Japan that I knew. As time passed after coming to Japan, my impression of the country gradually changed.

I currently live in Kobe, but the Japanese language school I initially attended was in Shinjuku, Tokyo. When I first arrived in Shinjuku, I was amazed by what I saw. There were various buildings, both small and large, and there were people walking, waiting, and sightseeing everywhere in the city. I was astonished by how crowded the streets were from one end to the other. Undoubtedly, I thought Shinjuku was a convenient place for commuting and shopping.

What surprised me the most was the morning commute on the trains. Without anyone telling them, salarymen would neatly line up in two rows and wait for their turn. However, late-night trains presented a completely different scene, with disheveled businessmen, some drunk, and others slouched lazily in their seats. I still don’t know which is the real image of Japanese people.

Furthermore, I was astonished by the kindness of store clerks and their excellent service. For example, at a restaurant I frequented, if my glass of water emptied, the staff would automatically refill it, even without me asking. In every store, the smiles of the staff were wonderful and refreshing. I think we, Vietnamese people, should learn from this aspect of Japanese service.

These are the impressions and charms of Japan that I have felt.