From Traveler to Local: Key Insights from My Life in Japan

Table of Contents

1. Initial Impressions: Falling in Love with Japan
2. Cultural Adjustments: Navigating a New Work Culture
3. Daily Life: A Shift in Routine
4. Social Connections: The Challenge of Making Friends
5. Language Skills: Slow but Steady Progress
6. Work-Life Balance: Adjusting to New Expectations
7. Sense of Home: Finding My Place
8. Navigating Bureaucracy: A Paper-Heavy Process
9. Transportation Experience: Commuting as a Resident
10. Food and Dining Habits: Adjusting to Local Cuisine
11. Housing and Living Arrangements: Finding Stability
12. Health and Wellness: Adapting to Local Products
13. Community Involvement: Staying Active
14. Travel within Japan: Discovering Hidden Gems
15. Long-Term Plans: Considering the Future
16. Remote Work Experience: The Flexibility to Explore
17. Advice for Others: Tips for Transitioning to Life in Japan

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1. Initial Impressions: Falling in Love with Japan

From the moment I stepped foot in Japan, I was captivated by the kindness and hospitality of the people. They went out of their way to help with:

• Directions: Locals were eager to assist with navigation, often going out of their way to ensure I reached my destination.

• Finding Apartments: Many people were generous with their time and advice when it came to finding a place to live, offering recommendations and even helping with translations.
• Recommending Tourist Spots: I received numerous suggestions for must-see attractions, hidden gems, and cultural experiences that enriched my stay.
• Suggesting the Best Places to Eat: From street food to fine dining, locals provided excellent recommendations, introducing me to a variety of delicious and authentic Japanese cuisine.
• Welcoming Atmosphere: The overall friendliness and open-mindedness of the people made me feel accepted and valued.
• Cultural Richness: The vibrant festivals, traditional practices, and local customs added a unique and fascinating layer to my experience.
• Safety and Cleanliness: I was impressed by the sense of safety and the cleanliness of public spaces, which contributed to a positive and comfortable experience.
• Politeness and Respect: The level of politeness and respect in everyday interactions made every encounter pleasant and memorable.
• Efficient Services: The efficiency of public services, such as transportation and customer service, was a welcome change and made daily life easier.

This warm welcome and the positive experiences I encountered made me fall in love with the country instantly.

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2. Cultural Adjustments: Navigating a New Work Culture

Adapting to Japanese culture presented some challenges, especially in the workplace. Key differences included:

• Work Culture: In Japan, leaving work early is often frowned upon, even if you've completed all your tasks. The expectation is to stay until the official end of the workday, which can mean longer hours compared to what I'm used to.

• Efficiency vs. Commitment: While efficiency and innovation are highly valued in many Western countries, in Japan, these traits can sometimes be perceived as a lack of commitment. Showing dedication through long hours and visible effort is often more important than the actual efficiency of one's work.

• Hierarchy and Respect: Japanese workplaces typically have a strong hierarchical structure. Respect for seniority and adherence to formal procedures are crucial. Understanding and navigating these hierarchical dynamics required learning and adaptation.

• Group Orientation: The emphasis on teamwork and group harmony means that individual achievements might be less recognized. Success is often seen as a collective effort, and fitting in with the group is valued more than standing out.

• Communication Style: Japanese communication tends to be more indirect and subtle. It’s important to read between the lines and understand non-verbal cues. Being attuned to these nuances helped me navigate workplace interactions more effectively.

• Work-Life Integration: While the work environment may be demanding, Japanese companies often emphasize work-life integration through various benefits such as company-sponsored social events, wellness programs, and support for family responsibilities. Balancing these aspects took time but eventually became a rewarding part of the experience.

• Professional Etiquette: Punctuality, formal dress codes, and the use of honorific language are essential aspects of Japanese professional etiquette. Adhering to these norms was crucial in gaining respect and building professional relationships.

• Learning and Adaptation: Adjusting to this more rigid work environment required patience and a willingness to learn. Over time, I developed strategies to manage my workload and expectations, leading to a more harmonious work experience.

Navigating these cultural adjustments was challenging but ultimately rewarding, offering me a deeper understanding of Japanese work culture and contributing to my overall experience in Japan.

3. Daily Life: A Shift in Routine

My daily routine changed significantly after moving to Japan:

• Work Hours: Work typically starts later, around 8 AM, which provided me with a bit more time in the mornings compared to the early starts I was accustomed to back home. This shift allowed for a more relaxed start to the day.

• Social Culture: The social culture in Japan often involves frequent outings, especially for after-work drinks. This social norm led to an increase in my alcohol consumption, as joining colleagues and friends for drinks became a regular part of my social life.

• Dining Out: Dining out became more common due to the affordability and quality of food available in Japan. The wide variety of restaurants, from casual ramen shops to high-end sushi bars, made eating out both convenient and enjoyable.

• Language Barrier: The language barrier presented a more significant challenge in everyday life than when I was just a tourist. Navigating daily tasks like shopping, ordering food, or handling administrative matters required more effort and adaptation, making routine activities sometimes more complex.

• Transportation: Commuting became a central part of daily life. While Japan's transportation system is efficient, adjusting to the crowded trains and lengthy commutes was a noticeable change from the more relaxed travel I experienced as a tourist.

• Cultural Norms: Adapting to local customs, such as removing shoes before entering homes and respecting communal spaces, became part of my daily routine. These practices, while initially unfamiliar, gradually became integrated into my lifestyle.

• Personal Time: Finding personal time for hobbies and relaxation required adjusting my schedule. Balancing work demands, social obligations, and personal interests involved planning and time management.

• Local Services: Getting accustomed to local services, such as grocery shopping at convenience stores and understanding local product labels, added an additional layer to daily life. Learning where to find specific products and understanding local food packaging took some adjustment.

Overall, while my daily life in Japan involved many new routines and adjustments, it offered a rich and varied experience that enhanced my understanding of the local culture and way of living.

4. Social Connections: The Challenge of Making Friends

Building relationships in Japan proved to be a multifaceted challenge:

• Expat Friendships: Friendships with other expatriates often felt transient. Many expats have temporary visas and may move on to other locations or return to their home countries, which can make these connections short-lived. Despite this, networking with fellow expats provided valuable support and companionship during my initial adjustment period.
• Local Friendships: Forming deep, lasting relationships with Japanese people was more challenging. Many locals have established social circles and may not readily include newcomers, especially foreigners, into their tight-knit groups. Cultural norms and language barriers sometimes made it harder to break through social barriers and forge meaningful connections.
• Cultural Differences: The social dynamics in Japan can be quite different from what I'm used to. For instance, the concept of "wa" (harmony) often means that people might not openly express disagreement or discomfort, which can sometimes make it difficult to gauge the depth of a relationship.
• Language Barrier: The language barrier posed another significant obstacle. Although I made efforts to improve my Japanese, communication challenges sometimes hindered deeper conversations and understanding, making it harder to connect on a personal level.
• Social Events: Participating in local events, such as festivals or community activities, was a good way to meet people. However, establishing genuine friendships often required consistent effort and patience. I found that attending social gatherings and engaging in activities of interest helped bridge some gaps and foster connections.

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• Online Communities: Joining online forums and social media groups for foreigners and locals interested in cultural exchange provided additional opportunities to meet people and share experiences. These platforms were valuable for finding like-minded individuals and building friendships.

• Long-Term Friendships: Over the five years I spent in Japan, I met many people and developed a number of friendships. However, only a few of these connections have remained strong over the long term. Of those, only three friends remain in Japan, each living in different prefectures. Maintaining these friendships has been incredibly rewarding, and we continue to stay in touch and support each other despite the geographical distances.

• Close Friendship: Despite the challenges, I was fortunate to make one very close Japanese friend. This relationship has been particularly meaningful, and we continue to stay in touch and support each other, even though we live in different locations.

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Overall, while making friends in Japan required navigating various social dynamics and cultural differences, the friendships I have maintained have been deeply meaningful and enriching.

5. Language Skills: Slow but Steady Progress

My journey with the Japanese language has been a gradual and evolving process:

• Initial Learning: When I first arrived in Japan, my Japanese skills were minimal. I relied heavily on translation apps like Google Translate to navigate daily interactions and essential tasks. While these tools were helpful, they were not always accurate, and understanding nuances or complex conversations was challenging.

• Integration into Daily Life: As time went on, I began to actively learn Japanese vocabulary and phrases. I integrated what I learned into my daily routine, practicing with locals and using Japanese in various situations, from shopping to ordering food. This hands-on approach helped reinforce my language skills and build confidence.

• Formal Study: I enrolled in Japanese language classes to gain a more structured understanding of grammar and syntax. These classes provided a solid foundation and accelerated my learning process. Additionally, language exchange programs and conversation partners were valuable for practicing speaking and listening skills.

• Cultural and Social Context: Immersing myself in Japanese culture and social activities was a crucial aspect of my language development. Engaging in conversations with locals, participating in community events, and consuming Japanese media (e.g., TV shows, books, and movies) enhanced my comprehension and provided context for language use.

• Motivation Boost: A significant turning point in my language journey occurred when I met my wife and her non-English-speaking parents. The need to communicate with them in Japanese provided a strong motivation to improve my skills. This personal connection made the learning process more meaningful and urgent.

• Current Proficiency: After years of consistent effort, I can now understand about 80% of everyday conversations and respond appropriately. My language skills have reached a level where I can comfortably engage in most daily interactions and follow conversations with moderate ease. However, I still face challenges with kanji. I know around 20 kanji characters, but reading and understanding more complex kanji remains a significant hurdle.

• Ongoing Efforts: To continue improving, I plan to keep practicing Japanese through various means, such as reading more complex texts, participating in advanced language courses, and engaging in more in-depth conversations with native speakers. Maintaining and expanding my language skills remains an ongoing goal.

Overall, while learning Japanese has been a gradual process, the progress I've made has significantly enhanced my ability to live and thrive in Japan, allowing me to better connect with the culture and people around me.

6. Work-Life Balance: Adjusting to New Expectations

The work-life balance in Japan differs starkly from Germany:

• Late Hours: Often involves staying late, even after finishing tasks. It's common to see colleagues working beyond regular hours, and leaving on time can sometimes be perceived as a lack of commitment.
• Work Culture: There is a strong emphasis on showing dedication and loyalty, which can lead to longer work hours and less time for personal life. This cultural norm contrasts with the more balanced approach to work and leisure that is typical in Germany.
• Expectation Management: Learning to manage expectations and setting boundaries was crucial. I had to become more mindful of not overcommitting and ensure that I took breaks and managed my workload effectively.
• After-Hours Socializing: Work often extends into social activities, such as after-work drinks or dinners, which are important for networking and relationship-building. This additional time commitment can further impact work-life balance.
• Personal Time: Finding time for personal activities and hobbies was initially challenging. I had to make a conscious effort to allocate time for relaxation and personal interests despite a demanding work schedule.
• Productivity vs. Presence: The emphasis on physical presence rather than productivity can lead to longer hours without necessarily increasing output.
• Health Considerations: Prolonged work hours and stress can affect health, so maintaining a healthy lifestyle and stress management practices became essential. Incorporating regular exercise and healthy eating helped counterbalance the effects of a demanding work environment.
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Finding a balance that worked for me took time.

7. Sense of Home: Finding My Place

Japan started to feel like home after:

• Marriage: Receiving a warm welcome from my in-laws. Their support and acceptance played a significant role in making me feel integrated into Japanese society.

• Friendship: Forming a strong bond with a Japanese local in Wakayama. This deep connection provided a sense of belonging and understanding of the local culture.

• Local Experiences: Adopting Japanese customs and daily routines. Embracing local traditions, such as seasonal festivals and local cuisine, made me feel more integrated into Japanese life.

• Familiarity with the Area: Becoming comfortable navigating my neighborhood and the city. Familiarizing myself with local shops, restaurants, and public transportation contributed to a sense of stability and belonging.

• Building a Home: Creating a comfortable living space that reflects my personal style. Personalizing my home with familiar items and decorations helped me establish a sense of ownership and comfort.

• Cultural Appreciation: Gaining a deeper appreciation for Japanese culture and traditions. Understanding and valuing the cultural nuances and practices made me feel more at home and connected to the country.

Despite the distance, we maintain close contact and meet up often.

8. Navigating Bureaucracy: A Paper-Heavy Process

Japanese bureaucracy can be daunting:

• Paperwork: The process is often paper-heavy, involving multiple forms and documents, many of which are exclusively in Japanese. This can be challenging for those who are not fluent in the language.

• Bank Accounts: Opening a bank account is often a prerequisite for many essential services, such as obtaining a phone number or securing employment. The process can be lengthy and may require proof of residency.
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• Ward Offices: Dealing with various paperwork at ward offices can be time-consuming. Completing procedures such as residency registration or health insurance enrollment often requires a full day, including waiting in long lines.

• Language Barrier: Many official forms and interactions are conducted in Japanese, which can be challenging for those with limited language skills. It's often necessary to enlist the help of a translator or Japanese-speaking friend.

• Japan Post: Japan Post has been a more accessible option for banking services, especially for those new to the country. They offer a range of services that can be more straightforward compared to other banks.

• Residency Requirements: Keeping track of residency requirements and deadlines is crucial. Failing to update your address or other information can result in complications with your visa status or other official documents.

• Local Regulations: Understanding and adhering to local regulations and customs is essential. For example, different municipalities may have specific requirements or procedures for residents.

• Healthcare Registration: Registering for health insurance and finding a suitable healthcare provider involves navigating additional layers of bureaucracy. Understanding the healthcare system and insurance options can be complex.

• Taxation: Managing taxation and understanding the tax system can be another bureaucratic hurdle. Ensuring compliance with local tax regulations and deadlines is important to avoid penalties.

• Renewals and Updates: Regularly updating personal information and renewing necessary documents, such as visas or residence cards, requires attention to detail and adherence to procedural requirements.

Japan Post was the most accessible option for banking services.

9. Transportation Experience: Commuting as a Resident

Living in Japan introduced me to the realities of daily commuting, which provided me with a new perspective:

• Length of Commutes: As a resident, I quickly realized that long commutes are a common aspect of life for many Japanese people. Cities like Tokyo and Osaka are much larger than they may appear to tourists. Traveling to outlying areas can take up to two hours, even if you're moving within the same city. This is a stark contrast to the more manageable travel times tourists experience when staying in city centers and exploring well-connected sightseeing spots.

• Efficient Transportation System: Japan’s transportation system is renowned for its efficiency and punctuality. Trains and buses are well-maintained, frequently serviced, and typically run on time. The convenience of having a reliable system made the long commutes more bearable and highlighted the contrast with transportation systems in other countries.

• Challenges of Daily Commuting: Despite the efficiency, daily commuting in Japan can be more taxing than I initially imagined. The crowds during peak hours, the need to adhere to strict schedules, and the physical strain of long journeys can be exhausting. It’s a stark reminder of how the convenience of the transportation system comes with its own set of challenges.

• City Size and Commute Duration: Cities like Tokyo and Osaka are sprawling, and the distances between residential areas and business districts or schools can be significant. For those living outside the city center, such as foreign teachers commuting between different schools or business professionals traveling to various locations, the commute can be time-consuming and demanding. This contrasts with the tourist experience, where most sightseeing activities are concentrated in well-connected central areas.

• Personal Adjustment: Adjusting to the daily grind of commuting required some adaptation. Finding strategies to make the commute more comfortable, such as reading or listening to podcasts, helped make the experience more manageable. Additionally, planning my schedule to avoid peak hours when possible contributed to a less stressful commute.

• Cultural Insight: Experiencing daily commutes provided deeper insights into Japanese work culture and social norms. It highlighted the dedication and resilience of many individuals who endure long hours of travel to fulfill their professional and personal commitments.

• Appreciation for Local Knowledge: Through these experiences, I gained a greater appreciation for local knowledge and the ways in which Japanese people navigate their transportation system. Learning about various routes, understanding peak times, and knowing how to navigate crowded stations became essential skills.

Overall, while commuting in Japan presented its challenges, it also offered valuable insights into the daily lives of residents and the efficiency of the country’s transportation infrastructure.

10. Food and Dining Habits: Adjusting to Local Cuisine

Adjustments in food and dining habits included:

• Soup: I found there was a bit too much soup for my taste.

  • Preference: I began seeking alternatives and exploring more diverse cuisines.

• Convenience Store Food: Realized it was often filled with chemicals.

  • Shift to Home Cooking: This led me to cook more at home, experimenting with Japanese recipes and healthier ingredients.

• Fresh Fish: Appreciated the affordability and abundance of fresh fish.

  • Integration: Included more fish in my diet, leveraging local markets for fresh options.

• Bread: As a German, I missed real bread. I found some quality options at the supermarket chain Life.

  • Experience: This helped satisfy my craving for authentic bread and added a familiar taste to my diet.

• iHerb: For high-quality ingredients and health-conscious options, I discovered iHerb as a valuable resource.

  • Product Range: They offer a wide selection of international food products, including natural and organic ingredients that are often not available locally.
  • Protein Powders and Supplements: iHerb's selection of protein powders and health supplements helped me maintain a balanced diet, especially when local options didn’t meet my needs.
  • Cooking Essentials: From spices and herbs to specialty items, iHerb provided products that enhanced my cooking and dietary habits.

This shift towards more home cooking and the use of iHerb’s quality ingredients allowed me to enjoy a healthier diet and experiment with new recipes while living in Japan.

11. Housing and Living Arrangements: Finding Stability

My housing situation evolved slowly:

• Initial Stay: Initially stayed in a share house, which was convenient for meeting people and adapting to life in Japan.

  • Pros:

    • Social Environment: Great for making connections with fellow expatriates and locals, providing a supportive community.
    • Flexible Lease Terms: Often offered short-term leases, which are ideal for newcomers still settling in.
    • Easy Communication: Common language and shared experiences with other foreigners made it easier to navigate daily life and settle in.

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    • Shared Costs: Lower living expenses due to shared rent and utilities, reducing financial pressure during the initial adjustment period.
    • Social Activities: Many share houses organize social events and activities, which can help integrate and make friends more easily.

  • Cons:

    • Limited Privacy: Shared living spaces mean less personal space and privacy, which can be challenging for some.
    • Foreign Environment: Living with mostly other foreigners can limit opportunities to integrate into Japanese society and improve language skills.
    • Cultural Differences: Potential for cultural clashes or misunderstandings with housemates from different backgrounds.
    • Less Control: Less control over the living environment, such as kitchen cleanliness or common area maintenance.
    • Short-Term Community: The transient nature of share house residents means forming long-lasting friendships or connections can be difficult.

• Renting: Renting as a foreigner in Japan can be challenging but is certainly manageable.

  • Documentation: Requires extensive paperwork and proof of income, often necessitating a Japanese guarantor.
  • Real Estate Agents: Some agents are more willing to work with foreigners than others. Finding a reliable agent familiar with the needs of expatriates can be very helpful.
  • Security Deposits: Typically higher than in many other countries, and moving out can involve lengthy procedures and potential deductions from the deposit for cleaning and repairs.

• House Purchase: While I haven’t bought a house yet, I’ve learned a lot about the Japanese real estate market.

  • Market Insight: Understanding local market conditions, property values, and the legal process is crucial.
  • Long-Term Plans: Considering the option of purchasing a property in the future, possibly focusing on areas with potential for growth or renovation opportunities.

• Personal Experience: Having lived in various types of accommodations, from share houses to more private rentals, I’ve gained a better understanding of what suits my lifestyle and preferences.

  • Cultural Adaptation: Adapting to Japanese living standards, including the smaller size of homes and different expectations for maintenance and utilities.
  • Future Goals: Planning to potentially purchase a property or invest in a renovation project to create a more permanent home in Japan.

12. Health and Wellness: Adapting to Local Products

Noticed some health changes:

• Hair Loss: Experienced increased hair loss, possibly due to local water or shampoos.

  • Solution: Now use European hair products exclusively, which have improved the condition of my hair.

• Local Product Quality: Faced challenges finding effective health and wellness products.

  • Workout Supplements: The variety and quality of local workout supplements, particularly protein powders, often didn’t meet my expectations.

  • Recommendation: For those who prefer high-quality protein supplements for their fitness routines, I highly recommend iHerb. They offer a wide selection of protein powders and supplements from reputable international brands.

    • Diverse Options: iHerb carries various types of protein powders, including whey protein, plant-based options, and specialized formulations.
    • Global Standards: Products meet global standards for quality and effectiveness, ensuring you get the best for your fitness needs.
    • Organic and Natural: Often features organic and natural options that can be challenging to find locally.
    • Competitive Prices: Provides competitive prices and reliable shipping, making it a valuable resource for maintaining your fitness regime while living abroad.

Adapting to local products became essential for maintaining health and wellness.

13. Community Involvement: Staying Active

Getting involved in local communities was incredibly beneficial for my overall experience in Japan:

• Meetup App: I joined an acro yoga group through the Meetup app, which met twice a week. This was a great way to stay active and meet new people with similar interests.

• Local Activities: I also made it a point to check out various local events and festivals. Japan is known for its vibrant festivals, seasonal celebrations, and cultural events. Participating in these activities offered a deeper insight into Japanese traditions and provided opportunities to connect with locals.

• Social and Physical Benefits: Engaging in these activities not only helped me stay physically active but also allowed me to form meaningful connections. Whether it was through regular group meetups or attending community events, these experiences enriched my understanding of Japanese culture and fostered a sense of belonging.

• Cultural Insight: Attending local festivals and activities gave me a firsthand look at Japanese customs and societal norms. From traditional matsuri (festivals) to neighborhood events, each experience offered unique insights into the local way of life.

• Network Expansion: Besides acro yoga and festivals, I explored other community activities such as language exchange meetups, volunteering opportunities, and hobby groups. These diverse experiences helped me build a broader network and integrate more fully into the local community.

• Personal Growth: Involvement in these activities also contributed to personal growth. It encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone, adapt to new social settings, and embrace different aspects of Japanese culture.

Overall, staying active and engaged in local communities significantly enhanced my experience in Japan, offering both social enrichment and a deeper appreciation of the country’s culture.

14. Travel within Japan: Discovering Hidden Gems

Living in Japan allowed me to dive deeper into the country’s rich landscape and cultural tapestry:

• Explore: I had the chance to discover hidden gems like Tottori Prefecture and Mt. Tateyama. These lesser-known destinations offered stunning natural beauty and a more tranquil experience compared to the bustling cities.

• Festivals: Attending traditional festivals provided me with a richer cultural understanding and insight into local customs and celebrations.

• Klook for Travel and Activities: For planning and booking experiences across Japan, I highly recommend Klook. They offer a wide range of curated experiences and practical services:

  • Car Rentals: Convenient for exploring Japan at your own pace. Whether you're planning a road trip or just need a car for a few days, Klook offers various options. Rent a car here.
  • Pocket Wi-Fi and SIM Cards: Essential for staying connected while traveling. Klook provides options for pocket Wi-Fi rentals and eSIM cards to ensure you have reliable internet access throughout your trip. Get pocket Wi-Fi or SIM cards here.
  • Discounted Activities: Klook often offers activities at discounted rates, sometimes even cheaper than the official websites. Check out their deals for a variety of experiences. Find discounted activities here.

These services significantly enhanced my travel experience, making it easier to explore Japan's beauty and culture while staying connected and saving on activities.

15. Long-Term Plans: Considering the Future

Reflecting on long-term plans:

• Future Decisions: Considering whether to stay in Japan indefinitely.
• Potential Projects: Considering purchasing and renovating an abandoned house (akiya) into a guesthouse.
• Work Preferences: Prefer to avoid working in a traditional Japanese company.

The experience has given me new perspectives on life and future goals.

16. Remote Work Experience: The Flexibility to Explore

Remote work has provided significant advantages:

• Flexibility: Allowed exploration of different parts of Japan while maintaining my career.
• Balance: Enabled a balance between work and travel that wasn’t possible before.

This lifestyle has enhanced my overall experience of living in Japan.

17. Advice for Others: Tips for Transitioning to Life in Japan

For those considering a move to Japan, here are my top tips:

• Learn the Language: Take a systematic course rather than relying solely on apps like Duolingo.
• Bring Essentials: Bring your own shampoo or find reliable sources for hair products.
• Understand Work Culture: Familiarize yourself with Japanese working culture to avoid common pitfalls.
• Carry Your Residence Card: Always keep your Japan Residence Card with you, as the police often stop foreigners.

Conclusion

Transitioning from being a tourist to living in Japan has brought many changes, both expected and unexpected. While the journey has had its challenges, it has also been incredibly rewarding, offering me a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and a new perspective on life.

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