GBX Day Two: Welcome to Fukuoka, a Warm Welcome and First Experiences in Japan

After a long journey, thank God, all the Global Bridge Academy Xchange (GBX) participants finally arrived in Fukuoka, Japan, at 14:26 local time. Joy and enthusiasm were clearly evident on the participants’ faces upon arrival when they saw the sign reading “Welcome to Fukuoka” at the airport. For some participants, this trip marked their first time travelling abroad; indeed, for some, it was their very first time on a plane. The opportunity to set foot in Japan was a special experience to be grateful for and proud of. After completing immigration procedures and collecting their luggage, the participants were warmly welcomed by APCC (The Asian-Pacific Children’s Convention in Fukuoka), a community that brings together young people from various countries to learn, exchange cultures and build friendships through the philosophy of ‘Omoi yari’ – the spirit of mutual care, respect and understanding. APCC also served as the community supporting the participants throughout their participation in the GBX programme in Fukuoka. This welcoming moment was captured in a group photograph before all participants continued their journey to their first hotel, the Hotel Montan, located in the Hakataekihigashi area of Fukuoka. Upon arrival at the hotel, the participants left their luggage in their respective rooms and got ready to enjoy dinner together. That evening, they walked through the Hakata district to soak up the atmosphere of the beautiful, clean and pleasant city of Fukuoka. Their destination was Canal City Hakata, one of Fukuoka’s famous shopping centres offering a wide variety of shops and dining options. Along the way, the participants took in the night-time city views whilst spotting various traditional Japanese dishes that caught their eye. Upon arriving at Canal City Hakata, they took the time to visit several shops, including the famous Onitsuka Tiger shoe shop, before finally looking for a place to have dinner. This dinner proved to be one of the most enjoyable experiences, rounding off the second day of the trip. The participants enjoyed their meal at Saizeriya restaurant, which was the perfect choice to recharge their batteries after a day of travelling and activities. The atmosphere of dining together felt all the more enjoyable as they were able to share stories, enjoy the food, and spend time together in the country they had just visited. After dinner, all the participants returned to the hotel to rest and prepare for the activities on the third day. The second day was not just about arriving in Japan, but also about first experiences, a warm welcome, and the camaraderie that formed a precious part of the GBX trip.