Easy question to start! Tell us about yourself.
I am 22 and having lived in the south east of England all my life, I moved to Japan after graduating from university. As part of the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme I work as an ALT (assistant language teacher) in a large senior high school in Kochi City. Kochi is on Shikoku Island, the smallest of Japan’s main islands, and although I live in a sizeable city it really is a world away from the buzz and noise of places like Tokyo and Osaka. You can see the mountains fading into the distance from almost anywhere, and I cycle through rice fields every morning on my way to work.
Why did you move?
I quite fancied the idea of living and working abroad since I had never done so before, and although I was very happy in England, I felt that I needed to ‘get out’ for a while and live somewhere new. I had anticipated I would move to somewhere in Europe since most places are a short flight away and I already spoke French, however, I also applied for the JET Programme because it looked interesting. I didn’t actually consider what would happen if I actually got in, but I did, and it seemed crazy to turn such an opportunity down.
Irino Beach in Kochi Prefecture, taken by Naomi
What is the best thing about where you live now?
Where to start? Japanese food is incredible: such variety, so good and so cheap! The food in Kochi is particularly good because it’s right on the Pacific Ocean: I had never tasted such fresh and delicious fish before. The landscape is also amazing and so varied: sandy beaches perfect for surfing, crystal clear rivers and beautiful mountains are all a short drive (or cycle ride) away. And finally, I think it’s the people here that make it. Japanese people are incredibly kind and helpful, if a little reserved, and Kochi is even more special, with an almost Mediterranean vibe. People here are laid back (especially for Japan), and live in the present, enjoying a good drink and not worrying about what the future will bring.
What was the most difficult aspect of moving abroad?
For me personally there were two things: the language and the fact that there are very few non-Japanese people where I live. I came to Japan with no Japanese, which made it difficult to do things like taking buses or going to the doctors on my own, because very few people speak English here. I also felt self-conscious (and still do now sometimes) as some people stare and ask lots of questions because I’m foreign! I have overcome both these aspects though: I have learnt Japanese and have got used to being a bit of a novelty around here.
What (if anything) do you miss about home?
It goes without saying that I miss my family and friends, especially my sisters, who in the past year have grown up so much. I also miss the long summer days (but not the long winter nights), cake, real ale, strong cheddar and British humour!
If you could change one thing about where you live, what would it be?
If Kochi was nearer a bigger city where there was more culture and shops, an international airport and better links to the rest of Japan I would be very happy!
Do you plan on moving again in the future? If so, where and why?
My plan at the moment is to return to the UK and train as a music teacher. I hope to live abroad again though, to experience a new culture and learn a new language. I’m thinking about Germany but it’s early days yet!
What was the most difficult aspect of moving abroad?
For me personally there were two things: the language and the fact that there are very few non-Japanese people where I live. I came to Japan with no Japanese, which made it difficult to do things like taking buses or going to the doctors on my own, because very few people speak English here. I also felt self-conscious (and still do now sometimes) as some people stare and ask lots of questions because I’m foreign! I have overcome both these aspects though: I have learnt Japanese and have got used to being a bit of a novelty around here.
Share your top three pieces of advice for people thinking about moving to Japan
- Don’t come with preconceptions: from the media, Japan may seem like a crazy place full of kawaii culture, idol groups, weird game shows and strange toilets, but the reality is very different!
- Give yourself time to explore and make use of the many national holidays to take some nice trips. Japan has so much to offer, from ski resorts to sub-tropical beaches so there’s something for everyone.
- Research some of the customs and etiquette before you go. Things like remembering to take your shoes off in some restaurants and buildings, and bowing to show gratitude or respect mean that you will make a much better first impression on anyone you meet.
Kochi City, taken by Naomi
