This month Eimi interviews Matthew about life in Japan.
Part 1
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Part 2
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How long have you lived in Japan?
I have lived in Japan since 2002.
Why did you decide to come to Japan?
I decided to come to Japan because I wanted to experience Japanese culture first hand. I had read many manga comics and watched many Japanese animated movies. When I was a teenager, I joined a karate dojo and practiced karate until I became a university student.
Have you lived anywhere else in Japan besides Utsunomiya?
No, I haven’t. I have moved house a few times but I have never lived anywhere else besides Utsunomiya. I feel at home when I am in Utsunomiya.
What do you think of Japanese food?
I have been asked this question many times! I really like Japanese food, especially tempura and soba. Sometimes I eat a Japanese plum whilst I am cooking my dinner.
What is the best place you have been to in Japan?
I would have to say Sapporo. The food was delicious and the city was very nice. I enjoyed the atmosphere very much.
Have you ever experienced culture shock in Japan?
Yes I have. Soon after I arrived in Utsunomiya, I started to notice people sleeping in their car during the day. This was new to me.
Would you like to go to any other places in Japan?
Yes, I would. I have already done a lot of travelling in Japan but I would love to go to many more places. When I have some free time, I would like to go to Kyushu; Kagoshima looks very interesting!
