Back at the hostel, I met some fellow travelers: Devon from Toronto and Oscar from Brighton. We decided to go in search of some dinner. On Oscar’s recommendation, we headed for a nearby sushi restaurant. We reflected that one of the things we love about Japan is that everyone is so passionate about what they do. Here in Japan, a job isn’t just something you do so you can pay your bills or build wealth. A job offers belonging, purpose, dignity, being a part of something larger than yourself. This applies equally to everyone, from the prime minister to a clerk at 7-11.

It might be controversial, but if I may be excused for getting on my soapbox for a paragraph, think a bit of this attitude could be good medicine in the West. Not that we should all become corporate shills or enthusiastic capitalists, but I think sometimes there’s some narcissism and cynicism masquerading as high ideals around the subject of work and careers, especially on the political Left. “I’m too special and brilliant for this boring, utilitarian job, but nonetheless here I am because I gotta pay rent. Now what do you want??” I admit I’ve had thoughts like this, at least. For this to work, this attitude would need to pervade all levels of a company, from the lowest employees and contractors up to the owners and executives.

Anyway, the sushi was Oishii!

On the way back we stopped at a grocery store. I grabbed some curry for breakfast in the morning.

Back at the guest house, we played Uno with other guests, using it as an opportunity to practice Japanese colors and numbers, then I got to bed at a reasonable hour.