The thing is that Japan is a country like any other, but for many reasons, it has grown very differently from other countries. It has taken some things and included it into the culture but largely has kept to itself, and this has given it many unique qualities and an atmosphere that is entirely its own. Living in Japan has been a great and unique experience so far.
Whether you’re looking to live in japan or simply travel through, here are some things to love about Japan and some things to look forward to.
Table of Contents
The Details
There are so many things to love about Japan, but in my opinion one of the best things are the small details around you. You can stand there, at the donation box at the shrine and the tall building is, in itself, already beautiful. The tall wooden structures that often house a giant gold Buddha are nothing to scoff at, but often there are so many small details that are so easy to miss.
The way the wooden beams have been carved. The gold accents along the ceiling. It’s simply breathtaking.
Even outside, there is almost always a dead straight path that cuts through gravel. The statues surrounding the courtyard depict mythological characters and spirits there to protect visitors.
Even the plants have been placed strategically to create a sense of balance and harmony. The peace and quiet, it’s always easy to just sit there and get lost in it.
The Cost
A point that I have always enjoyed is the cost of life in Japan. Eating out in Japan can be done on quite a tight budget. There is a lot of pride among the people and each restaurant strives for perfection.
You could go to an expensive restaurant and the quality will be above and beyond what you pay. You can be treated like a king with the finest cuts of meat and wine, meticulously chosen to be paired with it. The waiters awaiting any request you could have. It’s truly an experience.
The best part is, that this is also true for the back alley ramen shop. The tiny shop that can only seat four or five people. You can pay next to nothing for a ramen and a beer and it is incredible what you can get for your money. Everything in the bowl, placed with the utmost care. Deep and rich flavors with just the right toppings and big enough to leave you feeling satisfied.
Another avenue where you can save some money is by buying second hand. In western countries, buying second hand has its upsides but often the things you get are poorly kept and still cost quite a sum.
People in Japan take really good care of the things they own. Since childhood, they are taught to care for their things. When they break or damage something, they are reminded of all the resources and the work people went through to get this item to you, not just its monetary value.
So this means that you can visit a second hand store and the items are not only substantially cheaper but have been kept in such good condition that you can barely tell it’s second hand.
One example was the Pokemon store. Everything in the store is expensive with lines out the door, but just down stairs was a second hand store, with stacks and stacks of Pokemon toys and goods all significantly cheaper and no worse for wear. It’s truly amazing what you can find in Japan.
The People
Organized chaos is a description that comes to mind with the people in Japan. The streets and train stations of Tokyo hustle and bustle with people, but everyone flows in their own lane.
Politeness and manners underscore almost everything Japanese people do. No loud conversations on trains. They line up ever so naturally. All this is to keep the peace. It’s truly amazing to see someone use their laptop on the table to save it, any other country and that would be gone before you could blink, but people here trust one another and feel safe enough to do this.
They can also be so kind. If two people almost bump into another going through a doorway, it is almost always followed up with gesturing for the other person to go through first, until finally someone caves and goes through.
Sometimes, when you visit the small shops, you’ll be greeted by a little old lady. She’ll shower you with compliments like she’s your own grandmother and will sometimes give you something for free, a small manjyu or mochi. Once you’ve finished, you’ll be followed out into the street with them thanking you until you’re out of sight. It’s all part of the Japanese experience.
For anyone thinking of living in Japan, finding a sense of community can be daunting. People in Japan can be very closed off, and any language barriers often only serve to widen the gap. That being said, finding a sport or a hobby in Japan can be a massive help in finding real bonds with other people. Basically, having something in common and finding like-minded people can go a long way in bridging the gap between you and any potential friends.
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What do you love about living in Japan?
Of course there are so many things that all come together to make Japan the place that it is and everyone’s experience will be different. This being said, I have enjoyed my time in Japan. I love the little details hidden around the ancient shrines and getting to know a variety of people. While it’s sometimes tough being viewed as an outsider, I’ve found a community of people who see me as I am. I’m far from rich, but the low cost of living means I can still enjoy my time here in Japan. I hope you too can come to this wonderful country and experience it for yourself.
I’m not really think of living in Japan but staying there for a long time. Japan is so much attractive to me. Honestly, I would live there 1-2 years if possible to explore all the corners of Japan.