Ramen, Sunsets, and Bike Rides in Tokyo

Studying abroad is the best and easiest chance you’ll ever get to living in another country. No matter where you decide to go or for how long, I promise you won’t regret it. 

Group photo of a youth soccer team on a grass field, with players wearing different colored jerseys, some numbered, posing for the camera.

For me, it’s not the exciting nights in Shibuya, the thrilling trip to Hong Kong, or the big New Year’s party in Tokyo with my friends that I miss, but the quiet times by myself that I want back the most. Like the cold, early-morning bike rides to school through my small Tokyo neighborhood, or just sitting at the top floor of my dorm watching the sun set over Mount Fuji. Those are the moments when Japan became a part of me, and I wouldn’t trade them for anything – even to be at the game where we beat Ohio State. 

Snow-covered shopping street in Japan with people walking and storefronts on either side. A mountain is visible in the background. Signs display Japanese characters.

The only regret I have from my study abroad experience is finding Menya Taisei, my favorite ramen shop, because I know that for the rest of my life I’ll be spending all my money on flights just to get back there for one more bowl!! But seriously, go study abroad!

Kellen Farrenkopf-Bihn

Hitotsubashi University Exchange, Fall 2024-Winter 2025

Find more pictures from Kellen's adventures!