ネイティブが教える英会話のジェムスクール☆Teachers☆

Pokémon holds a special, safe, nostalgic spot in my heart, inspired by my childhood of playing Gameboy and Nintendo 64 games with my cousins. I remember coming from school each day and watching Pokémon on TV at the nursing home my family owned and operated when I was a kid! I had a gallon ziplock baggie of Pokemon figures, and I can still remember playing pretend that I had a Ponyta to ride on and a Pikachu of my own, just like Ash.

Alas, as I entered the Pokémon Center in Osaka last month, it felt like achieving a lifelong goal. Honestly, the browsing experience at the center was stressful because of how packed it was–I’d never seen a mix of so many nationalities and kinds of people outside of an international airport! It was really neat, but a bit overwhelming. That aside, I had an incredible time shopping and enjoying all the sights. They had a special Pokémon Sleep display where I posed with Snorlax and a cool Miraidon mural. Although I didn’t eat at the Pokémon Cafe (that you have to reserve MONTHS in advance), I did come across a special chef Pikachu. He can make me some Pokeblocks anytime!




In adulthood, I still enjoy the Pokémon card game, video games, and anime. It’s a nice way to connect with my students.

Do you like Pokémon and if so, which is your favorite? I can never decide…(Golduck, Raichu, Lapras, Latias…What can I say? I’m getting old!)