Before coming to Japan, I had many worries. I would be in Japan without my family or friends, and I didn’t understand Japanese. What would life in Japan be like? But I overcame my fear and decided to come to Japan.

It has been two years since I arrived in Japan. During this time, I have experienced a mix of hardship, joy, loneliness, bitterness, and sweetness. Looking back, I see a 19-year-old girl starting her life alone in a completely unknown foreign country.

In my first three months in Japan, I couldn’t attend school due to COVID-19 and only worked. Every day, I had to wake up at 2 am to deliver newspapers. I was still not used to it and felt very sleepy. When I came to Japan in the spring, the morning air sometimes dropped to 9℃, and it was very cold, especially when it rained. At that time, with tears in my eyes, I missed my family and thought about returning home. It was a tough period for me.

I live with two people. One is my senior, and the other is a friend who came to Japan with me. Their support warmed my heart. Knowing nothing about Japan, I was deeply moved by my senior teaching me the rules and ways around. Every day, we work, go to school, eat, and play together, gradually becoming close like a family. I feel lucky to have met a kind senior like Hoang-san.

With COVID-19 subsiding, school started. It takes an hour from my house to school. The route to school is not only long but also hilly. However, thinking of meeting my teachers and friends, I go to school every day without fail. Teachers at school have taught me many useful things. As my Japanese improved, I made more friends.

Besides school, I attend Japanese lessons at a cultural center every Sunday. Here, I receive individual instruction. The lessons at the cultural center not only help me gain knowledge but also encouraged me to participate in various exchange activities, thanks to the speech contests held there.

Having lived in Japan for two years, I’ve surprisingly grown to love Japanese cuisine. Sushi, sashimi, and natto, which I couldn’t eat when I was in Vietnam, have become favorites. Japanese cuisine is not only visually appealing but also values the taste of nature. Eating raw food makes me feel the blessings of water, air, and nature, which I believe is the true deliciousness of Japanese food.

This is not the first time I’ve lived away from my parents, but this time I’ve truly experienced a lot. I’ve been exposed to Japanese culture and education, broadened my horizons, grown personally, and felt a deeper love for my family.

I am deeply grateful for the long-term care I’ve received. My heart is filled with gratitude towards the Japanese people and friends I’ve met.