curioussam
English expat in Japan
Forum posts
26
About me
English
Lives in Niimi
Speaks English and some Japanese
Registration: 27 January 2013
Paying bills in Japan by Priscilla
Hello everyone, What bills do you pay? If you are renting, are bills included in the price of rent, and is this common practice in Japan? How can you pay your bills (e.g. online, at provider's store, at the post office)? Which is the most ...
I too pay some bills at the Post Office or convinience store. When we rented a house we had a bank standing order. Daily newspaper delivery representive comes to the house once a month and we pay cash. Slipped my mind, but I think my car insurance ... Read More
Japan's most expensive cities by Priscilla
Hello everyone, What are the most expensive cities to live in Japan? What are the costs of things such as rent, utilities, weekly groceries, dining out, etc.? What is the lifestyle like in these cities, for expats and locals? What are the ...
I lived in a rented house in a suburb of Kyoto city for quite a few years. Apart from the rent, I didn't find it too expensive. In fact, public transport was cheaper than in England and better and more efficient. Shopping in general was ... Read More
What to expect when moving to Japan
Generally, most of my experiences in Japan have been positive. I learnt a lot about Japan before coming here to live. The politeness; cleanliness and brilliant transportation may take a bit of getting used to, depending on which country you come ... Read More
Retiring in Japan by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Why did you choose to retire in Japan? What are the advantages compared with your home country? What were your main considerations when deciding to move? For example, taxes, ease of transferring your pension, etc.. Are there ...
I worked in Japan for a good number of years and I was retired five years ago and moved to my late monther-in-law's house in a rural town. Mainly for financial and practical reasons. The cost of returning to the England would have been pretty ... Read More
Recognition of foreign qualifications in Japan
I had basic qualifications. A university degree and work experience. Before coming to Japan I did an English teaching course. All of which enabled me to get a job at various language schools and institutions. Read More
How has your life changed in Japan by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Has your life changed since you moved to Japan? If so, in what way? Tell us more about all the changes in your life regarding your family, job, or friends. What about your frame of mind? How would you define your mood? ...
There are quite a number of universities, private language schools which employ English speaking foreigneers, both in Osaka and Kyoto. I think if you have the right qualifications it shouldn't be too difficult to find a job. I lived and worked ... Read More
Mistakes expats make in Japan
I didn't make any big mistakes, but I regret not having learned the language more than I have. It really is a problem sometimes, but I get by with basics. I worked in language schools and relied on speaking English mainly. I just wished I had ... Read More
How has your life changed in Japan by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Has your life changed since you moved to Japan? If so, in what way? Tell us more about all the changes in your life regarding your family, job, or friends. What about your frame of mind? How would you define your mood? ...
I came to live in Japan a number of years ago from England with my Japanese wife. The first thing I noticed was the efficient, clean transportation system, especially the subway which I used to use every day to go to and from work, and the cost was ... Read More
Do you speak Japanese? by Priscilla
Hi everyone, It is widely agreed that mastering the Japanese language is essential for a successful integration in Japan. Do you agree? Share your experience! Do you speak Japanese? If so, where did you learn this language? Where can one attend a ...
Yes, of course, speakig Japanese does help you to integrated into Japanese society. Unfortunately, my Japanese is not so good. For example, if I visit the doctor or hospital I need my partner to oome with me and help me talk to the doctor. I get by ... Read More
The holiday season in Japan
We went shopping for our weekly groceries today at a fairly large store here in Japan. All the female assistants at the checkouts were dressed in Santa oufits, including hats. There were various posters advertising Christmas, even a tree in the ... Read More
Common misconceptions and clich茅s about life in Japan
Not sure, but I think a lot of people think Japanese eat raw fish every day. They do eat a lot of raw fish, but other food is also popular, common. Of course fast food restaurants like western countries are numerous, especially in the bigger cities. ... Read More
Dealing with homesickness in Japan by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Being an expat in Japan can turn out to be a wonderful human, social or professional adventure... with potential moments of nostalgia and homesickness along the way. What are your personal tips to prevent homesickness? How ...
Homesickness is often difficult to prevent or cure. I have suffered from homesickness, but I try to focus on the good points of living in Japan. For example safety, politeness, good service etc. Also Japan has four seasons and for me Spring is very ... Read More
Customer care in Japan
Customer service in Japan is usually very good if a bit robotic. I can't remember having any bad experiences. In shop's you nearly always get verbally welcomed and often said goodbye to. At the counter you're asked if you want even a ... Read More
Keeping up with the news in Japan
I usually read Japanese news sites online: The Japan Times and News On Japan. I also watch Japanese NHK on TV along with a couple of other Japanese news sites. I have satelite TV which allows me to watch. Of course I don't always understand what ... Read More
Your new local habits in Japan
I've been here a few years now so my habits aren't really new, but they are basically different to the habits I had in England. One main habit, if you can call it a habit, is food. I now basically eat Japanese food including nabe, sushi, ... Read More
Adapting to the climate in Japan by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Adjusting to new climatic conditions is key in any expatriation process. Moving to Japan is no exception. What are the climate characteristics of Japan? How does the local weather impact your daily life, mood or ...
Yes, Japan has four seasons, which apart from summer I enjoy. But summer, like at the moment, is very hot and humid which is somewhat uncomfortable, especially when one is walking outside. But, as mentioned I enjoy the other seasons, especially ... Read More