Portraits of Oregon - Ken

Hi I'm Ken. I came to Eugene in 2019 from Tokyo, Japan and am enjoying this magical city.

I came to this city because of my wife's connection growing up in Eugene. At first I was worried that I wouldn't be able to adapt to the city because everything is so different from Tokyo, but now I'm happy and enjoying life without having to wear a suit, and I can put up with people talking forever at the checkout counter in the supermarket! Not being able to eat real sushi is hard, though.

Through my favorite sports and outdoor activities, I quickly made friends from students to adults regardless of nationality, race, or gender. And when I have children, I can connect with people from different parts of the world again and experience firsthand the kindness of people. Fortunately, I do not feel the racial divide that I thought before coming to the U.S., and I am enjoying Oregon as much as I thought I would. I feel that I have grown in my ability to appreciate things that I used to take for granted by coming to a different country.

I now consider myself a representative of the Japanese people and try to act with pride and honor. I believe that this is my way of repaying the debt of gratitude to Japan, the country that raised me. In my work as an importer, I want to convey to everyone the traditions, culture, and techniques of Japan.

I sincerely hope that I can enjoy the rich nature of Oregon, where I will live for a long time, and that much happiness will be bestowed on my children and family.

Peace!!