This video is part of the Leaving Aus For Japan Series and marks the conclusion of my six-month Series in Japan, a period filled with unexpected turns and transformative experiences. As the months passed, the temperature gauge surged to 35°C, a stark indicator of the looming impact of global warming. The onset of a scorching heatwave across Tokyo and even Hokkaido, known for its cool summers, left me reeling.
Prior to the heatwave, I had embraced my new electric-assisted bike, but one day’s exploration ended in a catastrophe. What began as a quest for adventure turned into an unexpected disaster.
Cycling through paths familiar and unknown, I miscalculated a small hill’s steepness and soared over the handlebars in a terrifying crash. Moments later, struggling for breath, I feared the worst, convinced I’d collapsed both my lungs.
Eventually, gasping for air, I found relief, but my bike lay mangled, and my finger splint lay shattered. Attempts to call for help failed, and I decided to brave the pain and ride to the local hospital, my bike’s wheel askew.
Upon arrival, my limited Japanese hindered explanation, but the medical staff quickly attended to my injuries. An ultrasound revealed fractured ribs and a surprising discovery of a chipped bone in my finger. Despite the discomfort, I found solace in the doctor’s assurance of no severe internal injuries.
Several weeks later, as I recuperated, my wife and I embarked on a trip to Lake Akan, home to an Ainu craft village, shedding light on the Ainu indigenous community’s cultural richness. Though I’ve yet to fully explore the complexities of Ainu heritage, their significance has grown due to popular anime referencing their culture.
A transition followed; my wife and I bid farewell to Ikeda, my mother-in-law’s serene town, and moved to the livelier Obihiro. Adjusting to a new environment unfolded, introducing me to like-minded individuals like Ryo, who shares my interests in music and anime.
Despite setbacks, moments of camaraderie with Ryo and his father underscored the warmth of Japanese hospitality. Adjusting to city life, recovering from my accident, and engaging with new experiences marked a turning point, making me appreciative of this vibrant life in Japan.
Embarking on this video-making journey has been a personal milestone, overcoming my reservations to share my experiences. The support received so far has been heartening, motivating me to continue documenting my Japan journey weekly, sharing stories, experiences, and insights.
Whilst this is the last of the 6 part series, It is by no means my last video in Japan…
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