There were many opportunities to learn about and to
experience the culture of Japan. Mrs. Carroll traveled with the total
group of 186 at times, but most often traveled in a group of 20 people. A guide
and interpreter were available at all times.
Sightseeing included Tokyo, Kyoto, many temples and
shrines, museums, a huge and busy fish market, restaurants, department stores,
and other points of interest.
The traditional dress of Japan was rarely seen in public.
Most Japanese clothing was western style. The young people enjoyed shopping in
"Chicago's" to buy used American style jeans, t-shirts, etc. while the
tourists visited the same store to purchase used Japanese kimonos, obis, and
other items of interest.
Japanese food was often enjoyed three times daily with
Mrs. Carroll becoming proficient in using chopsticks. Fish, miso, rice, soft
eggs, and green tea were helpful in getting off to a fresh start each day. Lunch
and dinner consisted of fish, meats, noodles, rice, vegetables, and green tea.
During the three weeks a variety of food was desired and group members were
adventuresome trying lots of Japanese foods with unknown ingredients. McDonalds,
Pizza Hut, and the Hard Rock Cafe' were also explored for comparison to American
models.
The architecture was elegant and beautiful, very different
from what is seen in the US. Space is at a premium so buildings are often very
tall and close together, houses are small, gas pumps are located underground,
and private yards are almost nonexistent. Yet the country has many beautiful
buildings with great thought given to aesthetic considerations.
