Category: Journal

I would like to put my insight into the Japanese public education system based on my firsthand experience as a public elementary school teacher in Japan since July 2022.

In many schools today in Japan, there’s a noticeable shift towards praising schoolchildren to facilitate their growth, rather than scolding them. This approach, often dubbed “praising education,” isn’t inherently flawed. Praising Education involves positively reinforcing kids, which can nurture and uplift them.

When schoolchildren show good behavior in their schoolwork and activities, they’re rewarded with praise, which seems to bolster positive actions. However, on the flip side, negative behavior tends to be overlooked, almost as if it never occurred. This poses an issue where misconduct goes unaddressed, missing valuable opportunities for timely correction and education. Consequently, schoolchildren may not learn the crucial skills of problem-solving and conflict resolution. These are responsibilities that educators, parents, and educational institutions should address with sharing information. Essentially, educators should teach students what they can and cannot do.

As a result, schools overlook significant opportunities to teach their students vital skills such as navigating challenges, problem-solving, and developing resilience. This encompasses what is commonly referred to as “critical thinking,” which I personally translate to Japanese as “生きる力.”

What would you think about this?

This is how Japan welcomed New Year’s Day, what a terrible way to start this year, 2024. A powerful earthquake struck the Noto peninsula, central Japan around 4:10 pm on New Year’s Day, and it triggered a Tsunami on the coastline. Official says over 250 people have been confirmed dead, with 26 individuals still unaccounted for as of Tuesday. Additionally, about 16,000 people are currently residing in emergency shelters.

Severe winter weather has struck the Kanto region and central Japan this week, including the Noto Peninsula, which was among the areas most affected by the earthquake and tsunami. In the Kanto area, unprecedented snow accumulation of 20 centimeters has disrupted all transportation systems.

Meanwhile, the Noto Peninsula, one of the areas most devastated by the earthquake and tsunami, remains a major concern. Many elderly individuals in the evacuee centers have suffered from hypothermia.

Furthermore, the extent of the damage in this region remains unknown due to cut-off roads caused by landslides or infrastructure damage, compounded by heavy snowfall. This situation makes it challenging to provide essential aid, including water, food, medicines, and other daily necessities. Another significant concern is the potential deterioration of hygiene in shelters due to the lack of running water for toilets.

As of Today, over 37,000 households are still without water after the Noto Penisula quake. Over 100 workers from across the country are scrambling to fix it. But officials say complete recovery won’t happen until April at the earliest.

I believe in hoping for a speedy recovery for the resilient people who are facing these challenges.

Yesterday, on January 14th, I visited the Monji-no-Yu, Kakeyu Onsen in the small Onsen village. The overnight snowfall turned the area into a picturesque winter wonderland. Kakeyu Onsen is renowned for its therapeutic benefits, particularly for alleviating back pain, soothing joints, and treating rheumatism.

Nagano Prefecture is located in the center of mainland Honshu, Japan, the capital city is Nagano City, which was the Winter Olympics venue in 1998.

Nagano’s charm is magnificent nature!

You can delight in the breathtaking beauty of various natural landscapes created by Mother Nature throughout all seasons: cherry blossoms in spring, lush greens in summer, autumn leaves in fall, icy trees in winter, and so on.

There are many things to do in outdoor activities: Mountain Climbing, hiking in National parks, skiing, and Hot spring, visiting historical sites.

A History-Packed Castle Town Ueda

Ueda City, the third-largest city in Nagano, is renowned as a historical Castle City. Nestled in the picturesque Chikuma River Valley, it is surrounded by breathtaking mountains.

Ueda Castle, constructed by the Sanada Clan during the Sengoku period, continues to showcase its historical ruins, inviting exploration today. The castle site has transformed into a city park, providing a space where people can enjoy quality time, take leisurely walks, and participate in various seasonal, historical, and cultural events. Examples include the Cherry Blossom Festival in spring, the Fireworks Festival in summer, and many others.

Offering Onsen Spas

There are many characteristic Onsen spots around, public Onsen facilities, and private Onsen Ryokans. Onsen Ryokan means Japanese-style Inn with an Onsen bath, offering health benefits.

I frequently take Muroga Onsen Sasara-no-Yu and Bessho Onsen Isomeno-Yu. Sasarano-no-Yu is one of Muroga Onsen It improves circulation, relaxes muscles, and eliminates stress.

Bessho Onsen Ryukan

I hadn’t caught a cold for quite a while, but last weekend, I experienced a runny nose, a froggy voice, and something off with my throat. Strangely, there was no fever or pain, which is unusual for me because usually, these symptoms come with a high fever. Now I got much better though.

In Japan, especially during winter, the flu tends to circulate. The CDC in Japan predicted in October that flu infections would spread unprecedentedly this upcoming winter. This is a concern for me, as I work at an elementary school in Ueda City, Nagano, In the previous month, some classrooms had to be shut down due to the flu. I’ve heard that several other schools in the city also faced closures.

Take care, you guys!

PS: I have a scheduled climb for Mount Tengudake on January 3rd, 2024. I plan to stay in good shape and ensure I’m well-prepared for the winter mountain ascent.

At the age of 60, life often takes a significant turn, marked by the retirement milestone in life for many individuals.

Two years ago, in March 2022, I made the decision voluntarily to retire from my business in the United States. Following my retirement, I returned to my home country, Japan, and currently reside in Nagano with my cat, Tabby.

Retirement can bring a mix of emotions, from excitement and relief to potential challenges in adjusting to a new routine and lifestyle.

During my leisure time, I play tennis and hiking on weekends. Also, I enjoy brewing in homebrewing along with the government guidelines, up to 1% alcohol. Occasionally, I engage in this delightful activity, experimenting and learning through trial and error. It is not only enjoyable but also a rewarding experience.

Living in Nagano provides a calm atmosphere mentally so far for my retired life, allowing me to explore my passions and interests. I look forward to continuing my journey in this new phase of life, humbly accepting the opportunities that come my way.