This morning, we left our hotel in Tokyo and headed to Ichikawa. As I look back on my time in Tokyo, a few things especially stand out.

All of the people I have met in Japan are extremely kind and welcoming. Although the adjustment to a completely new culture and new language has been challenging, the kindness I have experienced makes this place feel close to home.

Another aspect of Tokyo that I could not help but notice is how much people care about their dogs. I was pleasantly surprised multiple times when I realized that the strollers pedestrians were pushing were occupied by small dogs instead of human children. Based on my observations, it is also quite rare for Japanese dogs to not be wearing clothing. The first dog I witnessed in Japan was proudly sporting a backpack and a sweater. I do not know what that dog was carrying in his backpack, but I do know that he was being a very good boy.

My most fulfilling Japanese dog experience occurred yesterday when I met a corgi named Richard Gere outside of a shrine in Kamakura. His owner proudly told us, “There is an American named after my dog.” Although our time together was short, Richard Gere and I became close friends.

As we move on from Tokyo to experience the rest of Japan, I hope to make more canine and human friends. This trip has already given me enough memories to last a lifetime, and I can’t wait to build more relationships with people (and dogs) in this beautiful country.