Hi, everyone!
I'm new! Another of those "OMGI<3JP" people that wants to make a home in the wonderful land of Sony and Toyota.
I've been having a conversation on another forum about moving to Japan.
japan-guide.com forum - Experience for visa?
So that you're not forced to click on the link, I'll give you a short rundown:
I'm 27 and have been living and teaching English in Taiwan for the past 7 years. I'm married to a Taiwanese, though our relationship seems to have a lot of downs compared to the ups - but hey~ that's marriage. I also have a daughter of almost 3.
Recently, my wife's mother died (taken by cancer, RIP) and a whole lot of issues within the family have arisen. So, she wants out of Taiwan. She's qualified for instant PR in Australia, but I really don't want to go back.
After some discussion, she has agreed that if I can find a way - she would happily move to Japan with me.
Now for the problem. I don't have a degree, neither does she. My degree was dropped and put on deferrment (which should be cancelled now) when I moved to Taiwan - following my heart in that typical, sappy way made famous in romance novels around the world. I've had a good life and had no regrets - until now.
My teaching experience includes five years in kindergarten and two (three by the end of my contract) in junior and senior high. Four years of afternoons teaching in children's cram schools for some extra pocket money, three of evenings teaching adults anything from basic conversation to business English, and also about half a year with a private student - tutoring him in advanced conversation.
My wish is to drag my sorry arse over to Japan, family in tow, get a job and attend night classes at the local university to get a degree. Seperation for a while may be necessary, I know - but it would be worth it in the end.
I've been to Japan twice, and I love it - and I don't need to hear anything about culture shock as I had plenty of that when I first got to Taiwan. I don't need to be rich, but earn enough to support myself and my family - with a home somewhere out more into the countryside instead of Tokyo. Perhaps around Kyoto somewhere.
I would appreciate to hear your input and comments, preferably constructive.