[quote=SgtBeavis;161108]The first thing you need to do is specifically determine WHY you want to live in Japan. Then you need to look into your perception as to what Japan is like and investigate wither or not you need to alter it. Then you'll start to get a more accurate impression as to whether or not you can take the cultural differences you'll experience. Trust me, there are A LOT of differences. However I can tell you that if you simply maintain an open and curious mind, you'll find that a stay in Japan is quite enjoyable.
Quote:
Originally Posted by SgtBeavis
The first thing you need to do is specifically determine WHY you want to live in Japan. Then you need to look into your perception as to what Japan is like and investigate wither or not you need to alter it. Then you'll start to get a more accurate impression as to whether or not you can take the cultural differences you'll experience. Trust me, there are A LOT of differences. However I can tell you that if you simply maintain an open and curious mind, you'll find that a stay in Japan is quite enjoyable.
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I strongly agree with this. I know alot of people who left Japan hating it and alot of people who never want to leave. Assuming that you have been to Japan before...once the honeymoon period is over and you are settling in, Japan is no longer special, or as exciting. It just because the normal. Things that you used to be able to brush off will start to annoy you. However upon visiting my home country, I realize that I have changed alot and I realize that I take Japan for granted. For example, no konbinis around the corner will become the death of me. And no plain green tea??? what!!! It reminds me of everything that I love about Japan and that the little things that start to bug me are worth it. So if you stay in Japan long term, going back to your home country to visit once a year or so helps alot.
Going more with what sgt beavis is saying, you need to examine yourself and why you want to come to Japan. My reason for staying in Japan is different that the reason I came however. You definatly need to see what you value and how open minded you really are. If things that are different are automatically wierd or stupid, you wont make it long term. Also, determine how intouch you are with your own culture. If you fit in very well and agree with your own culture, Japan long term is probably not for you. Most people I know who have been here for more than a year, including myself, are either internationals (people who dont really have a "home country" per se) or don't fit in well with their own culture. For me, I am/always was an outcast in america. Im about as far from an average american as you can get. I guess the point im trying to make is, if you think your own country is the best, the right way to live, and the norm, than you will not be happy in another country.
As far as living. I have heard that Osaka area is much more "relaxed" than Tokyo. I have not been to Osaka but I have alot of friends who are from there, and I do think they are easier to get along with than Tokyo people. My tokyo friends I never feel like I can really open up and get close to them, but I can with my Osaka friends. As far as living in Tokyo, Living costs vary greatly. The best way to go is probably a 2 bedroom place with a roommate. Cheaper apartments are also more in the suburb areas of Tokyo. Like near saitama, and west tokyo. I have seen apartments in Tokyo as low as around $400 USD but they are small, and usually old. The average for a somewhat decient 1 bedroom place in tokyo is probably around $700-1000 a month.