After living and working in Tokyo for almost 2 years, it’s about time I summarised my experience of working in this city. Let’s start with the challenges so we can end on a more positive note. 

The Challenges 

1. Isolation

The Japanese culture can promote an introverted way of life. Single seating in restaurants are extremely common. Food ticket machines/ iPads in restaurants are useful for language barriers but decreases human interaction. Public transport discourages conversation and laughter. In such a populated and busy city, it’s easy to feel lonely.

2. Conforming to societal expectations 

International DJ, Steve Aoki, once spoke about his Japanese childhood of wanting to excel in the Arts but being punished for standing out. The culture here seems to discourage individuality. “The nail that sticks out gets hammered down”, is a Japanese proverb that proves this belief. Basically, it’s the opposite to Bristol or Brighton in England. There are exceptions but I believe there is a strong societal pressure for people to act in according to the general public, in fear of being judged by others. To me, everyone seems a subdued version of who they could be. 

3. Lack of diversity

Being a foreigner here can make you feel singled out, like you don’t belong. Before Japan opened their borders, I would get constant stares, comments and locals refusing to sit next to me on public transport. This common occurrence is known as the “Gaijin Seat” (the empty seat next to the foreigner that people refuse to sit). It is a small but unsettling experience. Fortunately, this has improved slightly with the influx of tourists.

4. Summer

The humidity is unlike anything else. If you are arriving in July or August, just rearrange your flights. If you can’t do that, be sure to pack spare T-shirts and a towel whenever you step outside. 

5. Discomfort and feeling incapable 

I haven’t quite been able to construct more of an answer to this one.

The Benefits

1. Expat community

The expat community can be found through a variety of hobbies, from sports clubs to night clubs, whichever takes your fancy. Apps like “meet-up” provide a wide range of community activities such as boardgame meet-ups, language skills, sports, photography, hiking, art classes and much more. Whether it’s something you already excel at or a new skill you’re wanting to try, Tokyo has (almost) anything and everything on offer.

2. Convenience and Choice

The convenience of Tokyo life is part of the city’s charm. Trains run on time, commuting is cheap and simple and convenience stores are on every corner. There is a level of comfort and ease to where everything is and how things run. Evenings can be spent; running, bouldering, playing tennis or volleyball, reading, drawing in a nice cafe or grabbing a delicious meal with a friend. The weekends provide even more options; beaches, ski resorts and mountain hikes are all accessible via trains, overnight buses or the bullet train.

3. Safety 

Similar to the convenience and comfort, Japan is incredibly safe! At most coffee shops, you’ll place your belongings on your chosen table before queuing. Your belongings won’t get taken. If you drop something on the street, it’ll rarely get stolen, only moved to a dry location nearby. If you miss the last train at night, it can be a long walk home but much safer than walking through London! 

4. Culture

• The streets are incredibly clean, no one litters. 
• Early morning exercise is popular among all ages.
• The people are patient and respectful. Public transport is quiet. On the surface, no one is rushing round or seems stressed.

5. The seasons (excluding summer)

• Autumn transforms the Japan countryside into gorgeous sunset colours. The temperatures are perfect to hike in and explore the outskirts of Tokyo.
• Winters provide clear blue skies with crisp and clean air. Fuji can be seen clearly, watching over the city.
• Cherry blossoms paint the streets of joy and wonder.

6. The Wanderlust

Japan is full of beautiful, mesmerising places to visit and explore. Alongside these adventure, incredible food less than a stones throw away and so much fascinating culture to immerse yourself in.

There are many more challenges and benefits to this weird and wonderful country. City life and Japanese culture suits some people more than others but it makes for an unforgettable experience. Stepping outside your comfort zone encourages you to grow. Whatever your comfort zone may be, venture outside out of it and see how it goes.

Take care,

Harry