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.
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: Considering that we have a couple “days of rest” between the end of the taikai and when festivities start in Sapporo, a proper outline of the “best” way to get there isn’t really possible. What might be good to keep in mind for planning is that as the trip/tour unfolds, many members may make different plans for getting from point A to point B, and how to fill the time between events. Please do feel free to make buddies and organize a party plan however you’d like.
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!!
