An Ex-Pat in Kyoto

I recently read an article in Rollin Stone magazine about Ex-Pats (Ex Patriots) who go about life living freely in different regions of the world.....

what sets ex-pats apart from regular travelers is their unique ability to blend in with their new culture and form immediate bonds and connections with the "right" people. Based on my previous travels and experience, I would define myself as fitting into this category...therefore my essential needs may be drastically different then most when traveling..

I believe in a very minimalistic approach to leaving home and like the idea of making the most out of very little. I have always been incredibly intrigued with Japanese culture (not just a part of the recent fad) and have studied the language, the cuisine as well as both neo japan and old world imperial japan. I have yet to visit.

I would limit my needs to exactly that...what I need....and see what I can accomplish and gian on my own in this foreign country...I chose Kyoto in particular because it is a great mix between the modern world and the old world of Japanese Emperors and the Buddhism. I like the struggle of adapting to a less Americanized region and feel there is the most to be gained from that.

The city of Kyoto itself (at least in picture) looks complete GORGEOUS!!! Sorrounded by mountains and forrests, and covered in ancient shrines it seems like a very epacful place to get away, and I feel I wouldn't really need as much in an enviroment like that...

My main neccesities would be a place to stay, and upon first arriving I would try and find a job, both for financial reasons and to gain a better understanding of the work culture....something that has always intrigued me. sushi and rice all day, sake at night with a great culture who seems to be just as interested in me as I am them....sounds fantastic. I think if I have the internet that would be enough to hold me down and keep my roots firm back in the US......but who kows if I would want to come back.....

So basically!!! my neccessitys remain at a minimum.....my computer, my video camera, clothes......seems about right....

-davy