Letters from Japan: Sept 18, 2002 "Just the Facts"

Originally titled "Test...testing...testing"

Hey kids,

I have less than 20 minutes to write this so it will be short and informative (not funny, just interesting).

Interesting fact #1...People who want to be elementary school teachers in Japan have to take several tests...could you be a teacher?

1) Swimming test...swim a mile
2) Piano test...play fairly well and read sheet music
3) English test...read, write, and speak English (or, in our case, Japanese)

Interesting fact #2...Most young Japanese people die their hair orange.

Interesting fact #3...Japanese don't feel very patriotic about their flag. It reminds them of the old Emperor who used to make men be kamikazes. The older generation wants a new flag.

Interesting face #4...At weddings, the big-wig of the company that you work for gives the speech.

OK, I told you it wasn't funny, just interesting facts I will test you on upon my return...

Love Rachel