by Awad Alyamany, a Palestinian MA student specializing in Tourism and Hospitality
*This is a reader submission.
Studying and living abroad might be a challenge due to adapting to a new living atmosphere in terms of the difference of the time zone, lifestyle, food, and traditions. For many, there's a possibility of getting a “culture shock”. For others, especially family-oriented students; might likely become “homesick”. All that is possible to happen to anyone anywhere. However, this feeling gradually vanishes once students get used and adapt to the new way of living. At first glance, I couldn’t expect that I am the first Palestinian student at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU), as I am coming from the city of Jericho, a Palestinian historical and touristic town dating back for more than 10.000 years of civilization. In my case, it was easy to be adapted and attracted by “Beppu,” I found a lot of things that are hugely like my city "Jericho” through several aspects, from a geographical and topographical angle, both cities are unique. They have distinguished features and amazing characteristics. For example, “Jericho” is an almost flat-based city, and it is widely well-known for its fertile soil, natural water springs, agricultural harvests, and fields, which are fully applied to Beppu. Beppu is a city overlooking the famous deepest and longest water body in the same context, which is The Pacific Ocean. Similarly, Jericho has unique water bodies “The Dead Sea” and “The River of Jordan,” which also has another name called “ The Baptismal River”. In terms of Tourism, both cities are at the top of the list for being popular destinations for local communities, as far as I could notice, the Beppu in Oita Prefecture is the most preferable place to visit amongst the Japanese people. Likewise, “Jericho” is considered the "breathing space" for many Palestinian people, especially for Jerusalem inhabitants. Beppu attracts people to enjoy by its hot springs (Onsens). In the same way, Jericho allures visitors by its pleasing natural springs inside the city and around. Beppu has green hiking mountains with astonishing panoramic views like “Mt. Tsurumi”. As with Jericho city, it is a keen interest of nature lovers and bird watchers; and it has one of the most famous biblical sites "Mt. of Temptation". The simplicity of living is also significant as observed in Beppu and Jericho. From an architectural point of view, both cities are still preserving the spirit of traditional and ancient houses and places. This is because they reflect their rich culture and identity.
As transportation means, cycling is very popular in both cities for the residents and foreign visitors, either students or other people.
The final similarity is very interesting as both cities present a remarkable cultural diversity. For instance, Jericho is a city of coexistence and harmony between Muslims and Christians. In the same way, Bappu hosts an international university. The local community is very open to interacting with different multicultural groups and people with great love and respect.