From Sapporo, Japan

Chiaki came to Perth,WA, to improve her English, which, indeed, is already quite good.

She has a degree to teach in high school Japanese history, and also English.

She whish to have a very good knowledge of English to fulfil her mission as a teacher. She plans to attend the University in Perth, for a number of months focusing on perfecting her knowledge of English.

She feels she has an obligation toward her country, and to her students, to hold high standards of knowledge in her chosen subjects, and a personal commitment to be an effective teacher.

Chiaki knows, of course, the history of Japan, but also of the city of Sapporo where she lives. Four years ago she decided, to be a part-time rickshaw puller, probably the only woman in Japan.

The tourists travelling on rickshaws expect the puller to have a detailed knowledge of the city, the history of the town, the main buildings, and any tourist’s attraction.

In addition to pulling the rickshaw, Chiaki must, therefore, point out special sights, explain their features and also answer questions from the visitors she carries on the rickshaw.

In a busy day, Chiaki may cover up to 50 km. This is really a remarkable distance just to walk. Consider pulling the weight of the rickshaw and two lean customers. It will amount to at least 100 kg.

If Chiaki is out of luck and find two tall and big tourists, the weight to pull may double.

Whoever considers becoming a rickshaw puller must be very highly motivated (or desperate), and be in perfect physical condition. Good luck Chiaki.