Today, our after-school activity was crafting onigiri, which brought back a wave of nostalgia. In second grade, my Japanese elementary school teacher introduced us to onigiri and origami, sparking my fascination with Japanese culture. Now, two decades later, I’m here in Japan, learning the language and immersing myself in local traditions.

Exploring Acupuncture

After class, one of my teachers accompanied me to an acupuncturist she recommended. She even joined me, opting for a massage herself. The experience was intriguing; I felt the needles, but there was no pain. Following the needle treatment, the practitioner applied pads to my back, delivering gentle electric pulses. It tickled initially, but I soon relaxed into the sensation. He also performed some neck adjustments, resulting in satisfying pops. While I’m uncertain about the immediate effects, it was a positive first experience, and I’d consider returning if I lived nearby.

Relaxing at the Onsen

Post-treatment, I visited the onsen. The warm waters caused a slight sting on my back at first, likely due to the earlier acupuncture, but soon provided a soothing contrast. The alternating baths enhanced the sensation, making for a rejuvenating end to the day.