(Introduce yourself)
My name is Michael.
(Where are you from ?)
I'm from Australia.
How long have you been in Japan ?
I've lived in Japan for 4 years. 1 year in Tochigi, then 3 in Shizuoka.
(What's your job ?)
I'm an English teacher. In Japan I've taught at Junior High Schools, Elementary Schools, Eikaiwa Classes, and for companies including Honda and Komatsu.
(Tell about you life in Shizuoka (lifestyle))
During the week I'm busy working, but on the weekends I love to ride my motorbike around Izu, or visit friends all over Japan. We like to go sightseeing, dine in restaurants, and sing karaoke in Izakayas.
(How was Shizuoka after the Tohoku earthquake?)
Sadly the earthquake and tsunami caused great destruction in the Tohoku region, but there was little or no damage in Shizuoka.
(How has Shizuoka changed after the Tohoku earthquake?)
Earthquakes are just a part of life in Japan, as they are in many countries. However, people feel relatively safe here because most buildings are well designed to withstand earthquakes. Since the Tohoku earthquake people have become more conscious of the need to conserve power, and many innovative strategies are being developed as a result. Many of my co-workers and students have also volunteered to go to Tohoku to assist with the reconstruction there.
(Which restaurant do you recommend ?)
I recommend Chukate in Nirayama. It's close to my apartment, the food is delicious, and the service is great. The staff are very friendly, and for a few years there's been a tradition that on Monday evenings English teachers from the Izu region meet there for dinner. It's a great way for teachers to keep in touch, and to form friendships with the local community.
(What food do you recommend there ?)
I like everything on the menu, especially their spicy ramen, but their homemade gyoza is fantastic, and is probably their most popular specialty.
(Think about slogan for Shizuoka)
I love seeing Mount Fuji almost every day, and being near the ocean, so the slogan which best and most simply describes Shizuoka for me would be :
Shizuoka : From Fuji to the sea
Information about the restaurant recommended by Michael.
Name: Chukatei
Address: Izunokuni-city jike 130-11
TEL: 055-949-3360
Business hours: 11:30-14:30 (OS14:00), 17:30-20:30 (OS20:00).
Regular holiday: Thursday (in case of a public holiday the day before).
Parking: 10 cars.
- Menu -
Gyouza (Chinese dumplings) 5 pieces 500 yen,
negi ramen (noodle soup with leek) 800 yen,
chahan (fried rice) 750 yen.
