Dr. Turo- How to Survive in Japan 101

After spending the afternoon rounding with Dr. Hiko, I went back to the International Student Affairs Office to get my luggage and figure out where I’d be staying for the next four weeks.   My first day at Nagoya just happened to coincide with Dr. Turo’s first day in the International Student Affairs Office.  Neither of us had a clue as to what was going on or what we were supposed to be doing in our respective positions. So Chikako San suggested what better way for both of us to figure it out than for Dr. Turo to escort me to the dormitory where I’d be staying for the month. That way I’d make it there safely and Dr. Turo would know where students stay when they come to Nagoya.  I assured that it wouldn’t be necessary; I can figure out the subway system and find the dorms by myself without a problem.  I’ve traveled all over the world in situations way more dangerous and difficult than Japan.  Plus, just that day I’d traveled all the way from Yokohama to Nagoya and found the University without a problem.  But both Chikako San and Dr. Turo resounded to my confident declaration with looks of doubt and insistence that I needed help.  Feeling a bit childish and upset about their doubts of my navigation skills, Dr. Turo helped me with my luggage and together we headed to the subway. 

Little did I know just how badly I needed Dr. Turo.  Despite my confidence, I was 100% not ready to travel in Japan alone.  He helped me get my bearings in the subway system, purchase a one month pass to use throughout my time in dorm life, and find my new home for the month.

Once at the dorms and both of us sat through an hour long “Orientation and Tour” by the head of the dorms.  Orientation included an exhaustive explanation of the complicated recycling system, including detailed drawings, samples of recyclable materials, and a signed statement of understanding.  In case that wasn’t enough, the tour included an explanation on how to properly use the toilet.  I’m not joking. Just when I wanted to start pulling my hair out at the unending minutia of this never ending orientation, the coordinator of the dorm surprised me with a question.  “Have you tried Japanese toilets?”, he asked, referring to the high-tech toilets complete with sound, odor neutralizer, and multiple types of bidets and sprayers.  My wide eyed, amazed head shake indicating no was immediately quipped, “Oh you must try them. I just love them! Feels so nice!”.  And with that mental image, it took everything in my power not to bust out laughing.

After finally finishing the tour, Dr. Turo and I had dinner together at a great little Soba shop down the street from the dorms.  He gave me my first and only lesson on proper chopstick technique and Japanese etiquette, which turns out is just about opposite of everything we’re taught in the US.  Keep your hands on the table at all times, hold the bowl up to your mouth and sweep the noodles and broth into your mouth, slurp loudly as a sign that you enjoy the flavor.  All the while, you’re barefoot and have no napkin.  His lesson turned out to be invaluable and the rest of the month I was given compliments on my chopstick skills and I felt comfortable eating with my Japanese friends and professors.