A Family's Nostalgic Reflections on Three Years Living in Japan
When my husband received military orders for Japan, my emotions were a mix of apprehension and anticipation. Our first child was still an infant, and the idea of being so far from our relatives and friends in the United States was daunting. Yet, I embraced the prospect of experiencing life in a foreign land.
In 2005, our small family relocated from Pensacola, Florida, to Sasebo, Japan, on the island of Kyushu. For three remarkable years, I immersed myself deeply in the local culture, seizing every opportunity to explore the beautiful country we now called home. My adventures were plentiful and diverse, including residing in a traditional Japanese house before moving to U.S. Navy housing, visiting ancient shrines, majestic temples, and historic castles. I indulged in shopping for exquisite pottery, enjoyed lively karaoke sessions, and experienced stays in traditional Japanese inns known as ryokans, complete with futons instead of conventional beds. I traveled on the Shinkansen bullet train to Kyoto, explored the dynamic city of Tokyo, and ventured to neighboring countries like Thailand and South Korea. One of the most significant events during our time there was the birth of my daughter in a Japanese ladies' clinic. Now, fifteen years after our return to Virginia in 2008, I still deeply miss several cherished aspects of our life abroad.
Among the most missed experiences are the serene onsens, the spectacular cherry blossom celebrations, and the unparalleled culinary scene. Japanese onsens, or hot springs, provided a unique form of relaxation, where I, as the sole American among Japanese women and children, learned and respected the strict etiquette. These visits were my preferred method of self-care. The annual cherry blossom season was a breathtaking spectacle, with vibrant festivals and parties held to admire the transient pink blooms, culminating in evening strolls through parks illuminated by lanterns, where petals fell like pink snow. Lastly, the food in Japan was an unforgettable delight. From melt-in-your-mouth sushi and crispy tempura to new dishes like yakitori and shabu shabu, every meal was a discovery. Even today, though I regularly enjoy sushi in the US, none compares to the flavors experienced in Japan.
The memories of Japan continue to hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of a period rich with cultural immersion, natural beauty, and gastronomic pleasure. My three years there instilled in me an enduring appreciation for new experiences and the courage to step beyond my comfort zone. It was a time that broadened my perspectives and showed me the profound joy of connecting with a culture different from my own. I eagerly anticipate the day I can return to Japan, to once again bask in the beauty of the cherry blossoms, relax in a beloved onsen, and savor its extraordinary cuisine.