June 30 , 2003 - page 2

ground level of the mall to see a swing concert. The concert was outside and the weather was perfect for listening to the upbeat swing melodies. I was taken aback when several Japanese couples began to swing dance. I just figured there wouldn’t be much interest in it here in Japan, but I guessed wrong.

We left the concert for a walking tour of the busy streets of Hakata. This was my first chance to experience big city nightlife here in Japan, and I loved it! The skies were illuminated by huge electric signs, jumbotrons advertised the latest and greatest consumer electronics gear, and everywhere I looked there were people.

After soaking up all the Hakata streets had to offer we went to one of the city’s most popular dance clubs. I was surprised to see so many gaijins inside, including several American soldiers. I enjoyed talking with some of them, and it was a great opportunity for me to share my impressions of Japan with other Americans who are experiencing it as well. However, without a doubt the highlight of the night was dancing. I hadn’t danced since early April, my last Centre C. party before coming here. I danced the night away, and I taught the Japanese a thing or two on the dance floor. An awesome night.

Early last week my friends had a sushi-eating contest with the winner getting their meal paid for by the rest of the
contestants. While I like several types of sushi, the thought of gorging myself with raw fish and seaweed didn’t sit well with me, so instead I participated only as a spectator.

In between cheering on my friends to eat more, I tried several new dishes, some on my own accord and others that were forced upon me. Most notably I tried basashi; I noticed it slide by on the conveyer belt and asked one of my friends what the soon to be infamous dish was. I should’ve known something was up when they giggled and before I could blink