Sore feet, sweaty clothes, and a whole lot of fun!

We have just wrapped up our second day here in Japan and I am already having a great time! Yesterday was our first full day in Japan.  We started off with breakfast that was a little traditional and a whole lot of different (scrambled eggs, yogurt, toast, octopus, fish, salad, and rice) and then we headed off to KGU.  It was amazing to see the beautiful campus right by the water.  We were then greeted with the warmest of welcomes by the KGU students and we met our pen pals.  Everyone was so nice and polite and it was great finally getting to meet the students in person.  Next, was a BBQ that put American BBQ to shame!  We then got to walk around downtown Kobe (where I got to try my first authentic Japanese ramen) and then went to watch the fireworks for the summer festival.  I think everyone can say that it was some of the best fireworks in our lives!

Today we got to go to Nara, which at one time was the capital of Japan.  I laughed as we all fed the deer...and then were quickly chased by deer who wanted more food.  The deer would even bow to you!  Even though it was extremely hot and sweaty, we found some ice cream and then visited the Todaji Temple which is the largest wooden building in the world and home to the largest bronze statue in the world.  It honestly took my breath away when I saw it! In the temple there is a very small hole in one of the wooden columns and it has become a tradition to try and crawl through it.  Everyone from U of A who attempted it was successful (with maybe some minor scrapes and bruises).  We then went to Osaka and stopped at an art aquarium where fish were turned into living art with sculptures and light.

I can honestly say this trip so far has been wonderful!  Getting to experience both the old and new aspects of Japan has been amazing.  I thought that during this trip I would be super uncomfortable with the different culture but the people here are so polite and welcoming.  Tomorrow we attend our first classes and I am very excited! I cannot wait to see what else is in store for the rest of this trip!