Being a foreigner in Japan means getting used to being asked to do other things apart from your daily job. Maybe you'll be asked to help out with a language class at a local school, participate in a seasonal festival, share a meal under the cherry blossoms during o-hanami - well - the list is pretty well endless. Now and then you need to learn how to say 'no' and have some pretty plausible excuses up your sleeve. Not having the time is rarely good enough, because, after all, you do have a weekend or the odd morning here or there. If it isn't scheduled, then by definition in Japan, it is free.
Now, of course, most of the extra-curricular events you are asked to front up for are a pure joy to be involved in and just add to the pleasure of living and working in Japan. Amongst the many things we did during our time in Sanda was the International Friendship Festival, held annually in the autumn at Flowertown Civic Centre. On one occasion we were waylaid and dressed up in traditional kimono. On another we manned a kind of conversation station for anyone who wanted to have a chat in English. Later we popped over the road to Flora 88 for coffee and cake at Hollies Cafe. I guess you can work out which photo is which.
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