Departure from Ageo Station - a special day in a jumbo cab (wagon cab)
Today, we were in charge of transportation from Ageo Station on the JR Takasaki Line in Ageo City, Saitama Prefecture, to the Saitama Regional Headquarters of the Korean National Citizens League in Saitama City's Urawa Ward in a Toyota Grand Ace, a jumbo taxi (wagon taxi).We picked up three passengers at Ageo Station, drove straight along the old Nakasendo Road, and arrived at our destination in about 40 minutes. One of the customer asked me "if You would like to join the party with us? There will be plenty of food”. To my surprise, I was invited to their New Year party.
An Unexpected Invitation - To the Saitama Regional Headquarters of the Korean National Citizens League in Japan
Moved by the "words" and "food" of the guests, I parked my Grand Ace in a nearby parking lot and entered the building. I was warmly greeted by a lively atmosphere inside, as people were preparing for the New Year's party.
The Joy of New Year's Eve Parties - Shared Culture and Bonding
At the New Year party, following the speeches by the guests of honor, a standing buffet party began. While enjoying the delicious food, we also had the opportunity to exchange business cards and promote JumboTaxy.com for a bit (lol). This wonderful event was a rich cultural experience, with introductions of newcomers and ethnic music performances.
Exchanges and new connections - a story that begins with the exchange of business cards
I was able to take a stranger like me to such a valuable event and interact with a wide variety of people during the party, as well as business possibilities. I was able to connect with many people not only as a jumbo taxi (wagon taxi) driver, but also as a participant.
Heartwarming and wonderful memories and souvenirs
As the party neared its end, we received heartwarming gifts from the organizers. I was filled with gratitude at the end of this special day, which was different from my previous days as a driver. This experience taught me once again the importance of new encounters and connections in my work and life. Thank you to the Saitama Regional Headquarters of the Korean National Citizens League in Japan and to everyone who participated in the event.
That weekend, I ate this kimchi with my family as a barbecue snack, along with my favorite gin.
summary
What started as a day as a jumbo taxi (wagon taxi) driver unexpectedly turned into a New Year's party that brought cultural exchange and new connections. The experience of the day became more than just a job for me; it was a special time that reaffirmed for me the importance of human connections. Every jumbo taxi (wagon taxi) trip has the potential for the unexpected, which again motivates me to drive on to the next one.