Make the Most of Your Life in Japan

Posted on 10/12/2021 Last updated on 12/21/2021

Top Image: Provided by Chris Estrada

You’re in Japan. After you land, see all the touristy sites on your wish list and get settled into your new apartment, what do you do next? Like many ALTs, you might be wondering this very thing as the “honeymoon” phase of life in Japan comes to a close and that “newness” factor wears off. Don’t fret, as I have 3 surefire tips to help banish away those post-honeymoon blues!

Get to Know Your Area!

Places like Tokyo are massive, and while you may not live “in the Ku’s” (the 23 Special Wards that make up the center of the former Tokyo City) or even in the prefecture (shout out to Kanagawa and Saitama) that doesn’t mean you’re doomed to spending hours on the train in order to have a little recreation.

Your area and its surroundings are a treasure trove of off the beaten path parks and shops that you can discover. Many of the smaller suburb cities that surround Tokyo have their own unique histories and stories just waiting to be discovered. If you’re unsure of where to start, your local town newspaper or website is a great place to begin. Otherwise, just pick a direction and start walking!

Pick Up a Hobby!

While this might seem like a no-brainer, finding something that interests you will help keep you motivated and adjust out of that honeymoon phase.

Whether your hobby is photography, camping, jogging, handcrafts, etc. there’s tons of places near you to accommodate your niche. For example, I’m into coffee. Japan has a rich and storied coffee culture, so finding places around my town that cater to that niche has been exciting and fulfilling. It also provides me with many subjects for my other passion; photography.

Hit the Books!

While not the most exciting part of life in Japan, here’s an essential one. Take some time out of your schedule to study Japanese! It’s a great way to help you get the most out of your experience here.

Tokyo (and Japan in general) is getting better about having English options for travelers. There are also a growing number of fluent English speakers (that’s why we’re here after all!) Still, many events and places operate strictly in Japanese. The more you’re able to learn the language, the more Japan opens up, and the more experiences you’ll have. So do yourself a favor and study! You’ll have plenty of motivation to put it to use on your next outing.

Though not an exhaustive list, hopefully this gives you the quick boost of motivation to get the most out of your new Japan life! There’s a whole lot of country to discover, why not start with what’s just outside your genkan?

Ready to start your new Life in Japan? Come on over as an ALT starting from April 2022! For more information, read all about being an ALT and see some of the opportunities!

Photo Credits:

Top Image: Provided by Chris Estrada