Japan, here we come.

As many of my friends and family members already know, I have been offered a position to teach English in Japan with the JET Program.  If you are interested to learn more about the program, you can visit their website here.  I began the whole process back in October when my wife, Natalie, and I decided that I should submit my application.  After being offered an interview in February, I was offered a position in April.  And in two months time, I will board a plane with two suitcases bound for Tokyo.  Needless to say, I am quite excited. 

As of a few days ago, I discovered that I will be placed in the Kyoto-shi, capital of the Kyoto Prefecture.  I requested this location as my first preference, but I never expected that I would be that fortunate.  Because I will be traveling with Natalie, who has not yet been to Japan, nor does she speak the language, I felt that Kyoto possessed an healthy balance of old and new Japan.  Kyoto, which has a population of roughly 1.5 million people, is much smaller than Tokyo or Osaka, but larger than more rural areas.  This will allow Natalie to have the opportunity to explore the beauty and history of the former imperial capital of Japan.  Furthermore, a better chance of encountering people who can speak English.

Seeing as I have never been a teacher, this will be great learning experience for me.  On this blog, I will document my experiences while teaching and living in Japan.  I will share pictures and stories with you about our time in the land of the rising sun, and look forward to reading your comments and answering any questions you have.  In the near future, Natalie plans to start her own blog as well, which I can't wait to read.

Until next time...

Daigo-ji Temple in Autumn

Kiyomizu-Dera (one of my favorite places)

Golden Pavilion

Famous Bamboo Grove at Arashiyama