Tshewang's Journal

Just two days after completing my quarantine in Tokyo, I received an invitation from the Kita City Office to facilitate at a Junior High School English camp. The opportunity came at a perfect time; having recently navigated the essentials of settling in, such as residence registration, health insurance, and setting up a bank account, I found myself eagerly awaiting the next steps in my journey. So, I accepted the invitation without hesitation. I reside on the 11th floor of the Tokyo International Exchange Center (TIEC) in Odaiba, a bustling area known for its vibrancy. Each morning, as I open my curtains and settle in front of my laptop, the sight of the Yurikamome line weaving through the city evokes a sense of déjà vu, reminiscent of moments back in Bhutan. Japan's development is evident in its skyline, a testament to its architectural and urban achievements. Yet, participating in the Iwai English camp offered me insights beyond the concrete landscape, into the cultural and socia...

Yesterday, I arrived in Tokyo, serendipitously on the last flight permitted before the Japanese government halted all international arrivals. It feels almost fated that I'm here to embark on my master's in public health, especially during a global crisis as defining as the COVID-19 pandemic. My passion for public health has been a beacon throughout my studies and career, and it has never felt more relevant than now, in these trying times. The transition hasn't been without its challenges. Last night, a blend of excitement and jet lag kept me awake, with mild headaches adding to my restlessness. As I adjust to the time difference, I find myself wide awake at what would be dinner time back in Bhutan, while it's already midnight here in Tokyo. The city feels different under the weight of the pandemic; the eerie sound of sirens outside and the unusually empty streets serve as stark reminders of our current reality. Japan has intensified its measures against COVID-19, partic...