When in Hiroshima...

One of the most important skills is understanding the transportation system.  JR trains, other densha lines, Hiroden, taking the bus, and walking are all ways to get around Hiroshima.  I haven't truly explored on my own yet... but I want to.

My first home stay drove me everywhere because we lived an hour away from the school.  The past two weeks I had the luxury of riding in a car.  Then, my first challenge started.

A week or so ago, I made a new friend at an exchange student party.  Ririko and I decided to meet at Hiroshima Station last Thursday so we can eat okonomiyaki (Japanese pancake-like pizza).  That was the first time where I had to figure out how to get somewhere on my own.  Super HYPE!
Thank you Google and Mapquest!

I first walked from the school to the Mukainada-Eki with the help of three little (and super adorable) 7th graders.  Then near the station, four of my 9th graders were also riding the JR to Hiroshima-Eki (saved again).  Next I chilled out at Hiroshima-Eki while waiting for Ririko. 

After having a great time (had some cute and handsome okonomiyaki chefs), the second part of the challenge began... 'how to get home'.  :/

Of course all this was done with prior research: which train to take, which station to change lines, how much does each train cost, which station to get off, etc.  Even after thorough research and asking my host mother many questions the night before, I STILL had trouble. 

I was very lucky that people directed me towards the right train or Hiroden.  At Itsukainichi-Eki, a lady happened to be heading towards Rakuraku en-Eki as well.  She guided me through the entire process of taking a station ticket and how much money I needed to prepare.  I barely understood what she said, but I knew just enough Japanese to get by.

In general, I was helped and guided by at least 12 people (students, strangers, and friends).  That was only my first adventure and I look forward to many more.  Hiroshima Center is like Chicago's Michigan Ave., but more shops and resturants!  Hiroshima station has many okonomiyaki resturants and also kareoke bars! 

Just arrived at my 2nd homestay today.  The house is near the school and it only takes a minute to walk to the bus station.  My last homestay had a rabbit, this homestay has birds!  I've never had birds!  This entire neighborhood is like Broad Ripple (dogs everywhere).   :)   I met my first shiba-inu today!!!  The next door neighbors have a healthy 11 year old schnauzer.

I AM SO LUCKY!  My homestays are all working out so well.  My 2nd homestay has three children (1st, 3rd, and 7th grader) and they are so sweet and funny.  I'm pumped for the beginning of my Week 3- Japan.


Rock.  On. 
Sweet.  Beats.

Good.  Times.

Everything will be okay.   :D