Have any questions about joining Team Bachido? You’ve come to the right place! Bachido member Adrian Crovetto has composed a very informative FAQ to answer some important questions we may have.
I wanted to quickly address the main question we are all probably wondering, “Why is the schedule still changing?”
Being that this is only our second year holding the Team Bachido tour, we still have some kinks and quirks to sort out. Masahiro and Tomoko Nitta are working hard adapting a schedule that fits everyone best; evaluating and reevaluating plans as they strive to create the most epic adventure for all of us!
Personally, I was sure we had nailed down the tour when I created and posted the Application Packet. As things changed, I was a little bummed that it became out dated. That being said, I am really happy with the changes that have been decided upon. I realize it may be difficult to follow all of these updates as they come in, but a safe and smooth tour requires lots of forethought, evaluation, and even further reevaluation.
Masahiro has told me that settling the details has been a challenge as we have yet to know exactly how many members will be in attendance; we already have a good size group, with even more people signing up regularly (which is awesome!) As more attendees trickle in until March 10th, the deadline, the schedule may be subject to further changes. Shortly after, if not on the day of the deadline, we will for certain be drafting and posting the finalized schedule.
In the mean time, your patience, understanding, and input are all greatly appreciate.
Tour of Team Bachido: 2014 FAQ
Q: I have special dietary needs. Who can help me with this while we are in Japan?
A: We strongly recommend you let us know of anything such as allergies ASAP so that group outings (that include food) can run smooth. However, we do ask for each member to be responsible for their own dietary needs and eating habits.
Q: I speak little-to-no Japanese. Will there be anyone who can assist me?
A: Fear not; many of the Bachido team members speak/understand Japanese quite well, and will happily help with translation/communication needed along the way.
Q: I do not wish to participate in the taikai performance, but really want to join everyone in Japan. Is that alright?
A: But of course! We would love to have you along for any length of the trip, even if just to make memories and enjoy each others company. However, please do be respectful and understanding of those who will need time to practice.
Q: I am not very skilled at playing shamisen. Is it still acceptable for me to
participate in the taikai performance?
A: Absolutely! We have many team members at varying skill levels; from absolute beginner all the way up to professional, and dare I say, “God of Shamisen” status. Your contribution is happily welcomed!
Q: I do not own a shamisen/do not feel comfortable traveling with my personal shamisen. What options are available for me?
A: Kyle has implemented a great shamisen rental system, and we would be overjoyed to get you set up with the gear you need to rock out with the rest of us. Please let him know ASAP to make sure we have enough gear for everyone.
Q: * What is the best way to get from Tokyo/Narita Airport to Misawa?*
A: This is dependent on when you are flying in to Tokyo in conjunction with when you plan to arrive in Misawa. Regardless, for first-timers to Japan, we highly recommended taking the Shinkansen; it’s a wonderful way to see parts of Japan (even if only from a window). It is also possible to transfer flights from Tokyo to Misawa. However you choose to make your way, please let us know when to be expecting you, as well of whether or not you will need to be retrieved after arriving in Misawa.
Q: What is the best way to get to Sapporo for the Bachido Festival?
A: Because the Bachido Festival is on the 6th, we will be traveling to Sapporo on the 5th. There will be two ways we will go to Sapporo. The slow, relaxing option is taking the Ferry, which leaves around 1pm and arrives around 8:15pm. The ferry costs about 19000 yen per person. The second option is flying there. Nitta san is in favor flying, as we can arrive sooner and reach our hotels earlier. The plane ticket is around 21400 yen. Please let us know how you would prefer to travel to Sapporo so we can help make arrangements.
Q: There was no liability waiver last year. Why are we being asked to fill this out?
A: As Team Bachido grows, and more people choose to attend international events, we feel it is our duty to ensure the safety and well being of all members, as well as the safety and well being of the organization. This means that members must be aware of their individual responsibility while participating, both for themselves as well as the team. In the interest of keeping Bachido safe for everyone, we have decided it to be a smart move that we adopt a liability waiver. Your patience and cooperation is very much appreciated.
For further questions, feel free to post them here.
You can also email them: kyle (at) bachido (dot) com
Take vacation!!