While I got my first taste of Japan 3 years ago from a school trip here, my impression of Japan so far remains the same. Tokyo is a city of bright lights and busy streets with weather that's unpredictable, and at times horrible. Following a small mix-up by my senpai Lee upon my arrival, leading to a subsequent 'short' wait for my pick up... I was given a rare opportunity to thoroughly observe the streets of Shinjuku during its peak hours. The cars were packed to a stand still, and people were rushing along the sidewalks like they were on a mission. It's been 2 weeks since that day, and between that time, I was once again made to understand why people actually dislike rain. Unlike Brisbane's rain, which I personally like since its rare and only usually happens during the 35 degree summer days, here in Tokyo it gets cold...very cold. (I'm really not that bothered by it, but it's been raining all week!)

However despite this, my impression of Japan remains a positive one, and I've certainly found the people as well as the differences in culture interesting and at times entertaining. There are probably already too many differences to list, but one thing I will note is the common use of bicycles. They're the choice of transport here, and no doubt I'll be taking a souvenir photo of the bike-park (as opposed to car-park) situated near the train station. I just hope I can still remember how to ride a bike...