So, here goes.

Japan has always been a country I wanted to visit. I briefly transited in the country many years back, and that was the only time I landed my feet in the land of the rising sun. I have heard stories, wonderful stories about the Japanese, and finally I get my chance to see for myself how wonderful the Japanese are.

I must say, I didn't have an excellent impression of the Japanese, because of what I studied in my history lessons. However, that was a prejudice that I learnt to do without. I was glad that I realised we shouldn't allow history to determine how we feel about something; things change, so can perception.

I must say the Japanese are the most courteous people I have seen. They take pride in their work, and serve others with so much humility (in the positive sense) and respect that I don't see how someone can fail to feel their sincerity.

It has to do with upbringing. And it shows, not only in everyday life, but in major events, such as the recent nuclear crisis. We have so much to learn from them, really.