Ethan L. (Tokyo)

During my time in Tokyo, Japan, I learned much about Japanese culture, people, and even had the opportunity to receive college credit. Going on this journey has been one of the most impactful experiences in my life. 

Japanese popular culture includes Japanese cinema, cuisine, television programs, anime, manga, video games and music, all of which retain older artistic and literary traditions, and many of their themes and styles of presentation can be traced to traditional art forms. Contemporary forms of popular culture, much like the traditional forms, are not only forms of entertainment but also aspects to distinguish contemporary Japan from the rest of the modern world. There is a large industry of music, films, and the products of a huge comic book industry, among other forms of entertainment. Game centers, bowling alleys, and karaoke parlors are well-known hangout places for teens while older people may play shogi or go in specialized parlors.

Japan is one of the most densely populated places in the world. Since the earliest historical times, they have lived in this land. During their several thousand years' developments, they have made great contributions to the world due to their wisdom. Advanced agriculture, paper making, and printing have impressed and shocked the world. To control the rapid growth in the population and to ensure the quality of life family planning has been one of the basic state policies, since 1978. As a measure to avoid overpopulation, late marriage, postponement of childbearing, and having fewer but healthier babies, are greatly encouraged by the government. Knowing this can help me understand the situations the people of Japan are in. 

While in Japan, we had the opportunity to earn college credit. However, it required extra payments that my parents and I could not afford on our own. Thanks to the Too Fly Foundation we were able to make the payments on time and earn the credit.

In conclusion, my trip to Japan was very educational and will help me with future experiences. Understanding the culture, people, and customs has opened my eyes to how different America is to the rest of the world. Thank you to the Too Fly Foundation for making this experience possible.