The Excursion of Big Hands Small Hands: Japan and Korea

Big Hands, Small Hands in Japan and Korea

Welcome to the second part of the Excursion of Big Hands Small Hands series here at theAsianParent! Here we follow the travel adventures of the Singapore family, composed of Sean (Dad), Tun Ling (Mom) and two young children, Yi Xi, two and Yi Ken, five.
Join this adventurous' family's trip to Japan and Korea by clicking through this gallery.

Japan: Having fun in the rain

The sun doesn't always shine on our excursions. With the long journey, our initial plans don't always work. At times, we have to re-evaluate and re-plan, be it searching for the best transport options, finding where to stay or dealing with the rainy weather. While we worried over the situation, our children showed us that it is alright when the sun doesn't shine. We can still have fun in the rain.

Japan: Learning how to make sushi

We could have learned how to make sushi from the internet, but having our Japanese friend, Masanori-san, to show us and enjoying the meal with his family afterwards, the lessons are much more real and fun.

Japan: Taking a bath together

We checked into an Onsen Hotel in Aso, Kyushu to experience the Japanese Onsen. We are usually uncomfortable with anyone seeing our naked bodies, even family members. However, it is a traditional practice in Japan to visit onsen with family and friends. Bathing together is not just fun, the hot spring water is healthy for the body, relaxing for the soul and creates a wonderful bonding opportunity.

Japan: Watching an active volcano

We were at Mount Aso when there were warnings that the active volcano is emitting smoke. We saw the smoke coming out from the volcano from JR Aso Station, but we took the bus up to Mount Aso nonetheless. The ropeway was closed due to the activity of the volcano. We wanted to take pictures of the active volcano when Yi Ken kept screaming at us not to take anymore pictures. He was apparently afraid of the active volcano that it may erupt any time.

Japan: Playtime with the host family's children

Too much sightseeing can be boring for the children. We usually try to request a host family with children themselves. Our children not only hear a new language, experience a new culture, but also make new friends as well.

Korean: Having eyes checked

Yi Ken had been diagnosed with poor vision only when we were about to leave for our travel. We didn't get the appointment in time to visit the ophthalmologist in Singapore, hence we went to one in South Korea. At the Anam hospital in Seoul, the medical staff and doctor were very helpful, gentle and patient with us and Yi Ken was able to get the proper prescription for his lazy eyes treatment.

Korean: Visiting an abandoned coal mine with a touching message

We also went to visit the abandoned Samcheok coal mine which has become a space for art and culture reflecting on the miners. Our Korean friend, Mr Park, was telling about the history of this mine, where the men worked very hard in a hazardous environment to support the family. The banner above the entrance read: "Father, please come back home safely"

Korea: Checking out fresh seafood

Lots of new sights and sound not only for us, but more so for our kids. We were by the sea at Gangwando, checking out a fresh seafood market. Seeing so many different fishes and sea creatures, and how the stores are selling them alive, what could our young minds be thinking?

Korea: Relying on each other

Guiding his sister along the way. Traveling with family, most of the time, we only have each other to rely on. Apart from fighting among themselves (of course they do!), they learn to carry each other as well.

Korea: Climbing up to the top

Would our children be able to relate that if you work hard and climb, you'll be rewarded with views of afar? We as parents certainly do. Tun Ling feeling accomplished with the achievement of carrying Yi Xi up the Sunrise Peak in Jeju Island.

Written by

theAsianparent

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