Wednesday, July 17, 2013

Day 8: Osaka Sister City Visit, Chicago and Osaka Educators

Our JEEP program has arranged for an Osaka Sister City Visit. Our group is visiting Osaka city hall, meeting with the Super Intendant of Education and his staff in a customary Japanese style meeting. Thereafter they are treating us to a city tour with a translator. 

Arrival at city hall. It was the hottest day so far on the trip. After our cuff link adventure (really my turquoise ones would've sufficed) we tool a taxi to city hall.



Our translators met us downstairs as did the Assistant to the Superintendent. We were escorted upstairs.

Department Head of Curriculum greeted us. Normally everyone would, however they heard of our issue that "one of the group (Husband) ran out of business cards." Out if respect there was not an exchange until the end. 


As per Japanese custom, the agenda was set by meeting host. Time is to be followed meticulously. When our turn came We had 10 minutes for introductions and therefore needed to be brief. 

The Assitant or Vice Superintendentales introductory remarks and introduces  their side. We side has its own translator as is customary. Notice in the background, their staff and assistants stay standing in the back the entire meeting.

Preparation of exchanging of the gifts. Every one stands and encircles the "gift area." That's the lead secretary in the grey suit. 

Our gift is in the blue bag and held trinkets from our schools. First gift is to the delegate leader, huge role in Japan & for our team, Katy, is presented with a fan from Osaka.

Husband and I received Japanese Lacquered plates with the Osaka City stamp. Notice the background prep for more gifts.


Our gift presentation.

The rest of the room assistants during the exchange of gifts. 

Osaka sister city plaque preparation for the official delegation picture.

Non customary, we exchanged cards at the end due to running low. 

This was a highlight of our trip being treated like royalty here - thank you Osaka and Superintendent of Education for your hospitality!!

When we left I cheered all those who walked us out "Ni-hon Di-Skee" Japan is the best!! Lotsa laughs and giggles.

Happy travels!!

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