What was your reason for visiting Japan ? I visited Japan for 6 weeks to participate in a course titled ‘ Tourism Development through the Appropriate Management of World Heritage Sites .’ This was to give Jamaica more exposure and an understanding of how variables , systems and processes work together to ensure the management of World Heritage Sites in a way that stimulates local and international tourism .
JAPAN , THROUGH DHALIA ’ S EYES
What was your reason for visiting Japan ? I visited Japan for 6 weeks to participate in a course titled ‘ Tourism Development through the Appropriate Management of World Heritage Sites .’ This was to give Jamaica more exposure and an understanding of how variables , systems and processes work together to ensure the management of World Heritage Sites in a way that stimulates local and international tourism .
What was your first impression of the country ?
My first impression of the country was one of hospitality and care . When I disembarked the plane and saw individual immigration personnel who were strategically placed , greeting and bowing while directing me and other passengers to the respective zones for connections and arrivals , I was somewhat stunned .
Where did you stay and what was that like ? During the 6 weeks I traversed the Kansai area , which is known for having historical and cultural richness of Japan . Within every city I was particularly impressed with the level of order that not only the place possessed , but also the immense discipline that local people possessed . And since we were not fluent in the native language , JICA in their wisdom ensured that we got 3 formal Japanese classes , which would teach us survival skill of conducting Japanese conversation . These classes were helpful to the extent where we could feel free to go into a store and orders items using basic phrases . It was empowering , to say the least . There were instances of challenge , but nothing a little informal sign language couldn ’ t fix .