Pepe. | The Life, Works and Writings of Jose Rizal [ENGLISH]

Second Travel Abroad

During his six-month stay in the Philippines, Jose Rizal encountered a significant personal challenge: his longing to visit his girlfriend, Leonor Rivera, in Pangasinan. Despite his deep desire to see her, Rizal faced opposition from his own father, Don Francisco Mercado. Don Francisco held strong reservations about the potential consequences of such a visit, particularly fearing for the safety and reputation of Leonor's family. This opposition stemmed from the prevailing social norms and expectations of the time, which placed a high value on the honor and respectability of a woman's family.

Rizal's father's concerns reflected broader societal attitudes towards relationships and social propriety. In the conservative environment of 19th-century Philippines, interactions between unmarried couples were subject to scrutiny and moral judgment. Don Francisco's apprehension was compounded by the fact that Rizal's relationship with Leonor Rivera was widely known and scrutinized by their community. Any perceived impropriety or scandal resulting from Rizal's visit to Leonor's home could have serious repercussions for both families.

Despite his disappointment, Rizal respected his father's wishes and refrained from pursuing his desire to visit Leonor. This decision showcased Rizal's adherence to familial obligations and respect for traditional values, even as he sought to challenge and reform other aspects of Philippine society. Ultimately, Rizal's inability to fulfill his wish to visit Leonor before departing the country underscored the complexities of personal relationships within the context of societal expectations and familial responsibilities during his time.

On February 3, 1888, Jose Rizal departed from the Philippines, setting sail for Hong Kong aboard the ship 'Zafiro.' The decision to leave his homeland marked the beginning of a new chapter in Rizal's life, characterized by exploration, intellectual pursuit, and advocacy for reform. During a brief stop at Amoy, Rizal opted to remain on board the ship, perhaps eager to reach his destination and begin his journey in earnest.

Upon arriving in Hong Kong, Rizal took up residence at the Victoria Hotel, immersing himself in the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling cosmopolitan hub. During his time in Hong Kong, Rizal had the opportunity to explore the city's rich cultural tapestry and diverse population. Accompanied by his friend Jose Maria Basa, Rizal ventured to the nearby city of Macao, where he spent two days experiencing the sights, sounds, and flavors of this Portuguese enclave.

One of the highlights of Rizal's time in Hong Kong was his participation in the Chinese New Year celebrations. This festive occasion offered Rizal a glimpse into the traditions and customs of Chinese culture, as he witnessed the colorful festivities, the booming sound of firecrackers, and the elaborate Lauriat parties featuring a plethora of sumptuous dishes. These experiences provided Rizal with valuable insights into the cultural mosaic of Asia, enriching his understanding of the diverse societies he encountered during his travels.

Rizal's sojourn in Hong Kong marked the beginning of a period of intellectual and personal growth, as he continued to engage with new ideas, experiences, and perspectives. His observations and encounters during this time would influence his later writings and activism, as he sought to address the social, political, and cultural issues facing his homeland and the wider world.

From Hong Kong, Jose Rizal continued his journey to Yokohama, Japan, arriving on February 28. Yokohama, a bustling port city, provided Rizal with a gateway to the rich cultural landscape of Japan. Eager to explore further, Rizal wasted no time and proceeded to Tokyo the following day. In Tokyo, the capital city of Japan, Rizal was welcomed to stay at the Spanish legation by its secretary, Juan Perez Caballero. This invitation afforded Rizal the opportunity to immerse himself in the diplomatic and social circles of the city.

During his time in Tokyo, Rizal had a remarkable encounter that shed light on the presence of Filipinos in Japan during his era. While strolling through the streets of Tokyo, Rizal stumbled upon a band playing European music. To his surprise, he discovered that some of the band members were Filipinos. This unexpected encounter hinted at the existence of a community of Filipino entertainers, known as 'Japayuki' or 'Japayuko,' who had migrated to Japan to pursue opportunities in the entertainment industry.