What it’s REALLY Like Living in Japan
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- Опубликовано: 22 июл 2024
- I first moved to Japan 6 years ago & theres A LOT that I’ve learned along the way 😳 While some things can be perceived as “good” or “bad,” today I’m choosing to share with you the things I love about living in Japan and whats it’s REALLY been like for me.
When I first moved, I walked in pretty blind, so I hope this video gives you some insight as to what there is to look forward to when moving to Japan as a foreigner/American.
📍 Locations in the video:
🏨 Park Hotel Tokyo
🌸 Hanegi Park
🐱 Gotokuji Temple
0:00-1:16 Are Japanese people nice to foreigners?
1:16-3:19 Nature in Japan
3:19-5:43 How respectful are the Japanese?
5:43-7:02 How safe is Japan?
7:02-9:12 What is it like being a minority in Japan?
9:12-11:14 Japanese culture from an American
11:14-12:32 Innovation
12:32-13:14 Is Japanese food good?
13:14-15:30 How do the Japanese live so long?
15:30 hot take on living abroad🔥
Thanks for watching my Japan Travel Vlog!
☀️ Instagram & Tiktok:
@wanderlustalley
☀️ All filming gear is listed in my kit:
kit.co/wanderlustalley
What it's REALLY Like Living in Japan
Disclaimer: these are my thoughts based on my personal experiences ☺️
Very close to our’s.
We lived in Japan for a total of 6 months (military).
Loved it!
@@hikevinhuynh I’m actually half Ecuadorian🤗
So your a Latina? NIce❤😊
I 100% agree with you. I love Japan and its culture exactly same as why you love the country. Kindness, considering others etc is embedded in their culture, and that makes this country an exceptional place on the Earth. Of course there are exceptions (as you also mentioned) but this country is something else for sure. Just came back to the States after visitng my Japanese friend of 25years last week. I learned a perfect word that describes Japanese. “Kodawari”. You may also have noticed how they treat their customers with quality of their product, professionalism, effort, etc. This Kodawari is literally that, that no other culture has, imo (that is deeply embedded in a whole country). Just wanted to share, in case you have not heard the word :). Love the way you prepare matcha in the morning, btw. I can tell you love Japan as much as I do. I randomly met this Japanese guy 25 years ago, and we have come a long way, visitng back n forth. He is basically a brother to me. Miss Japan so much!
I just got a job offer in Japan. And in May I am coming there..So I'm binging all the videos on RUclips about Japan experiences..Thank you❤
Thanks for making this video. I am Canadian and I lived in Japan for six years and your video reminded me of my early experiences there.
I went to Japan for the first time in April...and OMG! Its truly thee most amazing place. As you, I was blown away by the people there, the culture. I wish I could move there. Really cool you took the leap to go explore and live abroad.
Love your energy and stories. I've been looking for places to go so my daughter can experience some different culture. Japan is at the top of the list!
My wife & I have always stayed seated through the credits of the movies we see. And, yes, it to see the names of the contributors to what is always an immense effort often born of love & passion. In high school & the early part of our marriage we were among those contributors to our school’s and community’s productions. And we have many dear friends & family who have devoted much of their lives to performance, the telling of stories, & communication of shared emotion & experience. So we know & respect this. Thank you for sharing this with us, and for sharing your love & passion in the work you do, here on YT & in the many productions of which you are a part. Congratulations & keep doing such good work. It matters.
I have now watched a few of your videos and all of your shorts! Definitely keep creating content, because you are incredible at it!!! I did not go looking for content like yours, so i feel like you must be trending! Keep putting out videos because I feel like you channel is going to start growing so quickly! You have created such high quality videos! Keep going! I can't wait to see more! 😊
Your vlogs are so good! I love them. So interesting and informative. Your sense of adventure and openness reminds me to not shut down as I get older - which happens to a lot of people! Thank you.
Thank you so much 🥺❤️ hoping to continue to live life to its fullest 🤗
I agree in the kindness but it’s your eyes that get me❤
Enjoy your teaching style, all things to the point. Great content.
Thank you so much ☺️☺️☺️
We just back from our first visit to Japan and your summary is spot on.
I’m so glad you think so ☺️
I've been enjoying your cheerful videos and wonderful smiles. As a Japanese, I can assure you that everybody over there loved an angel like you but we don't show it. Or, we are not good at it. One way or another, I wish we could authentically communicate our genuine feelings to all the people like you from any part of the world, just as we truly experience them.
Hi I just discovered your channel and I wanted to say you have great vibes! I’m in overseas now but originally from Japan ! Happy you’re enjoying Japan!
Thank you so much!!
Lovely content, thanks!
I love that idea about waiting to watch all of the credits at the movies. I am going start doing that now
Isn’t it just so lovely ☺️
This was an inspirational and insightful vlog. Grateful for you and your channel.
You’re the sweetest! Thank you so much ☺️ have a lovely day xx
A you do a fabulous job on personal Japan travel details
These folks live longer
They do have stresssors too
Your delivery and style so pleasant and calm
Looking forward to SN Fever!
How can i never seen your vids before?! Living in Japan?! Working on a Cruise?! OMG! You are living my dream life! ❤❤❤
🥺🫶
I always love watching your japanese experiences!
Thank you 😊
We your audience understand these are your opinion. Yes I moved to Asia for the willingness of people to be kind to anyone they meet🙏
Very similar to Kenya! You should go sometime. It’s eye opening and stretching
Just discovered your channel through shorts. Binging now.
日本を好きになってくれてありがとう
いつかまた日本に来てください
Japan is beautiful but I thank you made it so much more 😊
I use RUclips to catch up on news back home, and your site came up. My grandfather first introduced me to Japan when I was a young child on one of his annual trips abroad. I was so fascinated by the country, that it easily became my most visited destination over the years. This early infatuation even resulted in taking Japanese for my foreign language requirement in secondary school and university.
But visiting a country for up to a 90 day tourist visa is not the same as living there on a "long-term" basis. So on my bucket list of items that I wanted to accomplish, was the privilege of living in Japan for at least a year. After retiring early, and then completing the somewhat complicated steps (Japanese Immigration, finding a place to liv, etc.) to move to Japan on April 3rd, 2020, Japan closed her borders 3 days before my outbound flight from the states due to Covid-19. The disappointment was quite crushing. But after several months, I headed off to South Africa, which was the other remaining bucket list location that I had planned to visit long-term (after Japan). Because Japan required a lot more planning, I wasn't sure whether I would try a second time to move there. But my innate stubbornness, coincided with the reopening of the country. And in early February, I finally moved over, albeit 3 years later.
I wholeheartedly agree with your thoughts, with few very minor differences (such as for me, because I have some background in the language, that advantage makes life here a little easier). I have always deeply appreciated the immense respect, cleanliness, and honesty of the culture. And although most of my life was spent in South Orange County (which the FBI recognizes as one of the safest areas in the US), I have never felt as safe as when I am in Japan.
Although, I have only been here for 2 and 1/2 months, I have enjoyed picking up on the little things that I have missed on my relatively brief "tourist" visits. One of the best aspects thus far, has been the opportunity to become acquainted with many of my neighbors. I enjoy the heartful salutations (like good morning, good day, etc.) and polite bows that reaffirm the social bonds that are integral to Japanese society (I do think my being able to speak enough Japanese probably plays a small part). And the food has been wonderful. Though I am allergic to fish (which can be an occasional issue in Japan), I am in "mochi heaven" with my favorite dessert, as I try out the different varieties and shops nearly every day. Suffice it to say, I am happy. So much so, that I will probably reapply to stay in Japan 2 more years before heading back to California to "settle down".
So thank you for your video. I definitely appreciate what you have so eloquently expressed, and will refer it to my friends and acquaintances, rather than having to explain why I will likely be spending more time in Japan.
Wow 🥹 what a lovely & thoughtful response. I’m so glad to hear that you’ve had such a lovely experience in Japan as well.
I am also from Southern California, and briefly lived & worked around Newport/worked at Disney. While I do feel safe in those areas too, nothing compares to Japan! I hope you will be able to spend even more time there in the future x
Cheers ☺️
@@wanderlustalley Interestiing, we have some similar life experiences. I initially lived in Newport Beach through my university years, then relocated to Monarch Beach after returning from 5 years abroad. During my undergrad years, I worked at Disneyland as an RO my first summer, went PPT (after that first summer) and became a Lead, and also trained executives from Tokyo Disneyland as it was being completed. I declined an invitation to relocate to Tokyo Disneyland because I was heading off to Med school. Disneyland was a fun distraction during my undergrad university years; made quite a few friends there.
After the last 2 and 1/2 months, I have decided to reapply for the 1 year visa (probably 2 more times) when the current one expires. As I previously mentioned, there is just so much to Japan and her people that cannot be easily discerned from short term tourist visa stays. But I think having an open mind and understanding that we are here in "their" country, also enhances the "adventure" of living in Japan -which is very evident in your perspective as shown in the video.
Best wishes in your future endeavors.
I have just discovered your channel and I’m loving it. Japan is on my bucket list of places to visit and your videos make it look amazing!! You always look really put together and I wondered where your cream scarf and lovely earrings were from?
Thank you ☺️ the scarf is from Zara! The earrings are from a small business of a friend. I’ll try to find the name!
Thank you, they are gorgeous.
I’m following you for a while and I’m quite surprised to notice that you already live in Japan too, it would be awesome if we crossed paths in Tokyo once
I love living and working in Japan! I was there 2017, 2018, end of 2019 and most of 2020, and end of 2022 ☺️
Been watching your vlogs and shorts a lot. You are soooo inspirational. Keep movin' forward :)
P/s: I was in Japan for a while too and frankly, it was pretty hard back then since I could not speak any Japanese though :(
Wow. Excellent video. Love the insights and obvious empathy for the native people. Seems like such an amazing place. The no trash thing is wonderful. Definitely not like here in America.
Great video! I'm really glad RUclips recommended you. Anyway... As someone who's been traveling Japan for almost a month now, i have the privilege and the choice to ignore the bad things. The trip generally has been good, But when i really think about that, so many things are bad here, (also as a traveler but i choose to ignore it as i said)
living here as a midclass worker is the worst choice i could do to myself for so many reasons, It's not for everyone. Just showing the other side of things, japan is far from perfect. Maybe you could make a video pointing out the cons also, like you have to learn Japanese, getting rejected by restaurants, miscommunication, ect..
I enjoyed my time there, but I was in the navy, and the tech devices that aid a foreigner today were not even thought of. So my ability to venture out of my immediate area was difficult. I tried to wing it, but got stranded over night with no where to go until the trains began running the following morning. I’m not sure if it was you or another YTer who said, that you can dispose of your trash at a 7 11 store, because they are equipped with waste bins for the public. Just so you know, that if you decided to be a spokesperson for a product or venue, because you have a very pleasant and clear speaking voice that is very easy to listen to. So if and when you tire of performing live, then start cultivating a resume of doing voice overs or speaking at events or tv promotions to expand your opportunities for employment. There are many attractive people with speaking parts whose voice can be pitchy. You don’t have that issue.
good people find each other - regardless of language or culture.
Did you leave your cruise career and move to Japan or are you just taking a break? Just curious, been watching your cruise videos for a while now 😊
Great video❤ One day you'll become a great vlogger! I believe that day is not far. Keep going💪
Back when I studied abroad my buddies and I went to a movie. Was a very interesting experience as you said.
On top of the staying from start to end. They were also very respectful, cleaning up after themselves. Which I often don't see in the states.
One thing I'd say was odd though, was how quite they are at a movie regardless of type of movie. My buddies and I saw a comedy and it felt odd we were the only ones laughing.
Yeah the audible reactions from the audience are often minimal 😂
@@wanderlustalley Also meant to reply.
My buddies and I had a weird experience with being turned away from businesses in Hokkaido.
We were in a smaller town for winter vacation and wanted to do some drinking. Every bar either straight up told us to leave or the cost would be crazy high. Turns out they were a popular tourist spot for Russians who didn't do the best job respecting the place, so they took it out on all foreigners.
Was still a great town and only really had this issue at the bar district. Plus the bar we did drink at was really nice and mailed an item I forgot there to me.
Unfortunately have not visited Japan, but have always been strangely drawn to wanting to move permanently there (recently this urge has been competing with a similar South Korean one LOL). I have never really studied Japan, haven't (until 2023) watched much of their movies or shows, and have read very little about their culture or history, yet I still would love to do it.
Unfortunately, unless I win the lottery a permanent move is out of the question as I am underqualified to move as a skilled worker and at 41 feel like am too old to study for a degree etc. to get the necessary qualifications.
A holiday will have to do but will definitely do 3 months to get the most out of it.
I am starting to think I am just not happy at home in the UK lol
I have a question because I've been looking at becoming a chef on a cruise ship, is there medical guidelines that you must meet and is it like airline staff were being to heavy will stop you for doing it?
Nice to meet you! I am a Japanese living in Tokyo. Subscribed to your channel. Thank you in advance 😊
Good luck with your work as a performer🩰✨👍🏻
Thank you so much 😊
Loved the story about the Japanese man who helped you!
He was so sweet. I wish he knew I talked about him so much!
From Ecuador?! Whaaat! Nice! Have you visited Ecuador? (I’m from Ecuador)
What’d I miss? ☺️
Why did your DP choose this aspect ratio?
What a lovely vlog! Like + subscribe))
those flowers (around 2:20〜) are not cherry blossoms. they are Japanese plum flowers which typically bloom before cherry flowers & smell better than cherry flowers.
Definitely☺️! This was filmed in January & these were the first blossoms I saw this year 🙏 🎉
I'm so glad you highlighted the benefits of being a minority/foreigner travelling in a homogeneous society - especially as an American. It is almost literally embodying the spirit of "walking a mile in someone else's shoes." It makes you much more conscious of the struggles that minorities in America have gone through especially if they're newly immigrated and trying to make it. It's no wonder that so many people have "lost" their own background cultural understanding since the pressure to fit in/assimilate is so large and then we'll have subsequent generations who have lost the meaning of their heritage. Bravo for recognizing that we all come from somewhere!
I get what you mean about the toilets,I'm one that loves that culture alot too😂
cute hair
So pretty
How were you able to afford to live there? Were you working at the time? I'd love to live abroad!
I got my job before moving & my flight/housing/visa was sponsored 🙏
@@wanderlustalley by housing being sponsored, does that mean you had to be hosted/ live with other people? Or were you and Dan able to stay in your own place? How is housing over there? Are there a lot of apartments?
I love everything about Japan, except the work culture. But it has changed a lot in the last 10 years. Since the UN pointed this out, the number of female executives has increased and companies will be punished by the government if empoyees work too much. Now I'm forced to take paid holidays. good trend
Totally agree that the work culture is inherently very draining. Hopefully we see more positive shifts in the future 🙏 most of the companies I’ve worked for have been foreigner friendly so I haven’t experienced it personally, but have definitely seen how it has impacted my friends 🙁 glad you’ve seen improvements!!
Hi
Great video. But one thing is what you mentioned about the garbage cans. The main reason why there's so few available garbage cans isn't out of respect for the environment. It's the same reason why England doesn't have that many garbage cans and it's exposure to terrorist attacks. Back in either the '60s or '70s, there was the Japanese Red Army attacks and then there was Aum Shin cult's gas attack on the subways.
Who is the "we" in her clips?
What do you mean 🤔
@@wanderlustalley sorry, really should watch some more videos before asking questions. But! If you do feel like answering one: Why? Why did you decide to record and document your life? And there's probably a clip that explains that, that I just haven't made it to yet :)
Hi 👋
Hi ☺️
Eureka! I was so annoyed when I lost your channel but happily found it again today. I just wanted to say your attitude looks etc. etc. are remarkable. Most Americans are extremely proud of their country and there is simply no "other". You on the other hand with your explorations and curiosity debunked that theory to the extent of claiming Japan as your 2nd domicile. BTW: Befuddled by your low subscription rate. Could it be your grasp of the Japanese language?
You’re so sweet! Thank you so much ☺️ of course there are things I love about America, but Japan has truly become a second home & im so thankful 🙏
Wow, what a dame.
いいね！👊
hopefully this experience made you less racist.
Wut
いいね👍️
Had the privilege of living in Japan for 10 years from the mid 70s. Certainly much has changed but much has also remained the same. Your video brought back many memories.
You look at their culture of respect as a good thing, but I don't because it can lead to tragic absurdity. Some of them are so concerned about respect than when something happens that causes them to lose their own respect, such as getting fired, they become so distressed that they kill themselves. So screw their respect! It's fake anyway. They didn't watch the credits out of respect for the creators; they did it so that they don't lose THEIR respect by standing out and looking disrespectful.
I guess I see what you’re saying but would you rather have a stranger be nice and polite to your face but talk shit behind your back or just be a dick to you right off the bat
You’re a great girl and all but regarding the part of the video about foreigners…it’s hard to tell whether or not you’re justifying their blatant racism and saying it’s ok. Can you imagine in America if there were restaurants that said “whites only??”
Oh wait those used to exist and it didn’t go so well 😂
oh wow your beautiful!!!
Date Asian guys???