☆☆☆first report of Philipp von Uslar, 22nd scholarship holder of the GRÜNWALD foundation☆☆☆

I arrived in Osaka 14 days ago. Everything here is a new experience, even shopping at the supermarket on the first day was a challenge. Without internet to translate food names, I could only guess what each product might be. It’s easy to be tempted to buy familiar products that are labeled in English. But now that is no longer a problem. After a bit of trial and error, shopping has almost become a routine, and I try to try new foods every time.

During the first two weeks, Mr. Okamoto invited me to various great restaurants. Every time it was a new experience, even if you already knew the dish from Germany. Sushi, for example, is not comparable to what you get in Germany. The quality of rice, fish, soy sauce and wasabi is significantly better and this is of course reflected in the taste. The other dishes are always a special culinary experience. What surprised me is how few carbohydrates are eaten in Japan. That probably explains why, with one exception, I only saw people of normal weight here

(Okonomiaki)

(Sushi)

Since one of my tasks/interests here is to talk to and meet young Japanese people, I have gone out almost every evening so far. Japanese people are a little shyer than Germans and therefore it is a little more difficult to meet new people. But what Japanese and Germans have in common is that they like to drink. So after a few Asahi beers and sake, it’s easy to talk to young Japanese people, even those whose English isn’t particularly good (still significantly better than my Japanese). In this way I have met a lot of people and exchanged ideas about interests, hobbies and life in Japan in general.

But even if you don’t take any initiative yourself, you get to know very nice and interesting people through Mr. Okamoto. I particularly enjoy the meetings with members of the Japanese-German Society (JDG). But I also received a warm welcome at Rotaract and was invited straight away for a few drinks after the meeting.

(Going out with Rotaract)

(welcomparty with GRÜNWALD Foundation)

(introduction at Rotary Suita)

It is well known that the Japanese are extremely polite people. I was still surprised at the hospitality and politeness. Not just from the Japanese people I was introduced to, but also from complete strangers, such as at the checkout in the supermarket or in a restaurant. Just a few days ago, a group of 10-year-old schoolchildren passed me on the way to the gym. When they passed me, everyone bowed and greeted me nicely. Something like that will never happen to you in Germany.

(Meeting with Mr.Goto Mayor Suita-city)

(Meeting with Mrs.Saxinger new Generalkonsul Germany)

In conclusion, I can only report positive things about the first two weeks. I couldn’t ask for better hosts than Mr. and Mrs. Okamoto. I have settled in well, feel very comfortable and am looking forward to the next few weeks.