Here comes Erin! November 2017 Issue

Just a couple of months ago my parents came to visit me all the way from Australia. I had long been looking forward to showing them around my adopted home town and seeing them experience my daily reality, if only for a few short days. We covered the downtown highlights closest to my home - Tojo-tei House, Matsudo Shrine, the Edogawa River, and local shops and eateries, before squeezing in a spot of seasonal pear-picking (pictured below). They are still raving about the sheer size of Matsudo’s pears even now!

Enormous fruit aside, Mum and Dad made some interesting observations about the city. Dad was fascinated by the compact homes and the intelligent use of space, while Mum envied the many train lines and bus services connecting downtown Matsudo. They also commended the warmth and enthusiasm shown to them by local people. “It’s both urban and friendly!” they concluded.

With big-brother Tokyo just next door, it can be easy to downplay the local area. But why not extend an invitation to your out-of-town friends? There is so much on offer, right here in Matsudo.