Host institution/organization in Japan:
Tokyo Institute of Technology
Precision and Intelligence Lab.
Advance Mechanical Systems Division
May - July 2010

The general image one has before coming to Japan is of a cradle-land of technology that is pretty much expected of a developed country, more so of Japan. While that is very much a reality, what took me by surprise was the perfect blend it enjoys with the colorful culture of the nation. The vibe of Asia is to be felt in every street, from the sparse ones of Suzukakedai to the throbbing ones of Shibuya. The warm comeliness of the people, be it the shop-keeper welcoming his guests with a cheerful 'Hai Irasshaimase!' or passer-by's greeting with their smiling 'Konnichiwa!', is what easily binds one and all, beyond all borders of nationality, religion or even language.