Since July 7th, we’ve been pleased to welcome two student interns from Taiwan, Shenny and Bell.
Here is the first English blog from Shenny.
Enjoy the story of their adventure from the airport to Michi-no-Eki Aso!
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Hi, I’m Shenny, an intern from Tamkang University in Taiwan. Although past interns have explained the work here before, arriving in a completely unfamiliar environment without speaking a word of Japanese was still nerve-wracking. This article will introduce the first day here in Michi-no-Eki Aso and give an overview of this place.
After arriving at Aso Kumamoto Airport, head to bus stop No. 6 at the far end of the terminal. From there, a free shuttle bus takes you to JR Higo-Ozu Station. You can buy your train ticket to Aso Station from that station.
Important note: If you plan to take a limited express train (特急), you need to buy two tickets — one for the base fare to your destination, and another limited express ticket for the same destination. Also, ticket vending machines do not accept the new Japanese banknotes. If you’re carrying the new currency, you’ll need to exchange it with the station staff.
At first, we didn’t understand this system and wondered why the station staff wouldn’t let us board. But after using a translation app, we realized we needed to pay the additional express fare. If you’re worried about communicating only in English, rest assured — the staff here are very polite and will go out of their way to help you, even with limited language skills.
The train may look old, but it’s well-maintained, clean, and comfortable. Watching the scenery change along the route helped calm my nerves as we headed deeper into Aso.
At one point during the ride, the train suddenly reversed briefly to switch tracks at an intermediate station, which completely surprised us — we honestly thought we had boarded the wrong train! But it turns out, this is a normal part of the route in this.
Once we arrived, Mr. Oliver and Ms. Ando were already waiting at the station to welcome us. Our workplace is located right next to the station at Michi-no-Eki Aso.
The main services provided here include: tourist information, local agricultural products, souvenirs, prepared foods, and again, tourist guidance.
After briefly getting to know the work environment, colleagues, and job responsibilities, I feel very fortunate to have this opportunity and truly happy to be here. Everyone has been welcoming and kind, which helps ease the initial tension of working in an unfamiliar place. I’m looking forward to the days ahead, hoping to learn and contribute as much as I can during this internship.
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