If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to live in Japan, I can tell you—it’s an adventure like no other. I remember when I first arrived here a few years ago, filled with excitement, curiosity, and dreams of experiencing the beautiful culture, rich history, and delicious food that Japan is known for. But let me tell you, living in Japan is nothing like what you expect from a tourist’s perspective. Living here as a foreigner brought its own set of challenges—ones I hadn’t fully anticipated. As much as I had researched, nothing prepared me for the actual day-to-day experience of being a foreigner in this admirable country.

Living in Japan is like stepping into a dream—beautiful landscapes, ancient temples, cherry blossoms, and bustling cities filled with neon lights. Sounds magical, right? And it is! But it’s also like peeling an onion. The more layers you uncover, the more complex and nuanced it becomes. Some layers might make you cry (hello, culture shock), but others will reveal a sweetness and richness you never expected.

The first few years of living here were a whirlwind of emotions, challenges, and cultural shocks. But despite all the struggles, every challenge turned out to be a valuable lesson that shaped me into the person I am today. The beauty of living in Japan is that it offers opportunities for personal growth in ways you never imagined. Whether it’s learning how to go through the language barriers, overcoming cultural differences, or finding a way to survive harsh winters and high costs of living, the lessons keep coming, and each one makes you stronger and more resilient.

If you’re considering working or living in Japan, or you’re already here and wondering how to thrive, let me share the lessons I’ve learned along the way. It may be different from others’ experiences but you can just pick what is useful for you and just leave the rest.

Language Barrier: “I Thought I Was Prepared”

Let’s start with the elephant in the room: the language barrier. Imagine studying for a test, feeling confident, and then walking into the exam room only to realize none of the questions match what you studied. That’s exactly how I felt when I arrived in Japan. I had studied simple or basic conversational Japanese before coming here— like how to order food, ask for directions, and even introduce myself. But then reality hit! People spoke fast, used slang, and layered their sentences with cultural nuances. It felt like trying to swim upstream without knowing how to float.

There’s nothing like trying to have a conversation with a native speaker, especially when they speak at lightning speed, using phrases and idioms you’ve never heard before. I quickly realized that while studying Japanese in textbooks was helpful, it didn’t prepare me for the reality of living in Japan. Japanese isn’t just a matter of memorizing vocabulary; it’s about understanding the nuances of grammar, pronunciation, and writing systems that are vastly different from what I was used to.

One of the most eye-opening moments for me was realizing that, despite all my studying, I wasn’t able to engage in a real conversation without struggling. The first time I tried to explain myself in Japanese, I felt like a little kid again, stumbling over my words, unsure if what I was saying even made sense. And don’t even get me started on reading kanji! That’s a whole new level of difficulty.

I remember trying to talk to a local shopkeeper, and when I spoke, I could tell I wasn’t being understood. I had to resort to using gestures and repeating myself multiple times. It was humbling, to say the least. I thought I was well-prepared, but the reality of speaking in a new language was much tougher than I expected. But here’s the silver lining—this struggle was where my growth began. I had to learn to embrace mistakes. I had to let go of my fear of judgment in any area of life. I realized that in living in Japan, language was as much about connecting with others as it was about communication.

Let me tell you about one of my favorite little adventures in Japan: going to a ramen shop after work. After a long day of teaching, I’d treat myself to this cozy spot down the street. The smell of the rich, savory broth hits me the moment I step in, and it’s like my whole body just says, Yes, this is exactly what I need! It’s one of my ways of unwinding—warm ramen, and a quiet corner.

But then comes the part that’s both hilarious and a little nerve-wracking: the menu. It’s all in kanji, and I mean all. Not a single English word at sight. I’d sit there staring at it as if squinting harder or making my eyes bigger might magically make me understand. I couldn’t tell if I was ordering pork ramen, vegetarian ramen, or some mystery dish. So, what do I do? I point at a random item on the menu, cross my fingers, and hope for the best!

When the bowl arrives, I feel this mix of excitement and slight terror—what did I just order? Sometimes it’s exactly what I wanted, and other times… well, let’s just say I’ve had a few surprises. Once, I ended up with something so unfamiliar, I spent a full minute poking at it, wondering if I was supposed to eat it with chopsticks or just embrace my confusion. It’s these moments, though, that make the language barrier both frustrating and oddly fun!

How I Learned to Handle It

• Start Small: The first lifesaver? Apps. Google Translate became my trusty sidekick. I’d hold my phone over the menu and watch as the kanji transformed into somewhat understandable words. Over time, I started picking up common food-related kanji, and now I can usually spot “ramen” or “pork” without breaking a sweat. It’s like slowly unlocking a secret code to everyday life here.
• Speak Without Fear: I can’t stress this enough—don’t be afraid to speak! My Japanese isn’t perfect (far from it), but I realized people genuinely appreciate the effort. I’ve had strangers patiently help me, smiling and even teaching me a word or two along the way. It’s heartwarming and reminds you that communication isn’t just about words—it’s about connection.
• Join the Fun: I eventually joined a language exchange group, and it was a game-changer. Imagine sitting with locals who are just as eager to practice English as you are to learn Japanese. We’d laugh at each other’s mistakes, share stories, and bond over how hard kanji can be. It’s not just about learning the language—it’s about building friendships that make you feel at home.

The language barrier is tricky, no doubt about it. It’s a mix of awkward moments, wild guesses, and small victories. But honestly, it’s also where some of the best memories are made. It’s like life in Japan hands you these little puzzles, and every time you solve one, you feel a little more confident and a lot more connected. And trust me, every misstep is just part of the adventure!

One thing I learned early on is that the Japanese are incredibly patient with foreigners trying to speak their language. Sure, there were times when I felt embarrassed for not knowing the right word or for misunderstanding something. But every time I stumbled, people around me offered encouragement and support. Over time, I developed the confidence to speak more, even if I wasn’t perfect. The more I tried, the better I got.

Now, I still make mistakes, but I don’t let them hold me back. I understand that language learning is a marathon, not a sprint. So, if you’re planning on living in Japan, don’t be discouraged by the language barrier. It’s part of the experience, and in many ways, it’s one of the most rewarding challenges you’ll face. Embrace it, and watch your confidence grow with each conversation you have.

Cultural Shocks: “I Didn’t See This Coming”

Living in Japan is like stepping into an entirely different world. Even though I had done some research before I moved here, there were still so many cultural differences that completely took me by surprise. One of the first things that hit me was the concept of hierarchy and the importance of respect in every interaction.

Hierarchy at work

I quickly learned that how you speak to someone depends a lot on their age, position, and social status. I had to be extra careful about using formal language, addressing people with the appropriate titles, and even bowing in the right way. The bowing thing? It’s a whole art form here, and believe me, there were several awkward moments when I didn’t get it right. But over time, I became accustomed to expectations, and it made me realize how much effort people put into being respectful toward each other. It’s not just about being polite; it’s about honoring each individual’s place in the hierarchy.

Beyond work, I also noticed how this hierarchy extended into everyday life. For example, when you greet someone, you don’t just say “hello.” The way you greet them can vary depending on their age or status. I remember the first time I met a senior manager at my workplace. I was unsure how to greet her properly. Should I bow lower? Should I speak in a more formal tone? It was overwhelming at first, but I quickly learned that understanding the cultural context of interactions was essential to living in Japan.

Punctuality

Another cultural shock for me was Japan’s emphasis on punctuality. In my home country, being a little late wasn’t a huge deal. But in Japan? You better be on time, or you might as well not show up at all. However, over time, I started to see the value of being punctual. It’s a sign of respect for other people’s time and a reflection of Japan’s broader commitment to order and structure. If you show up late, it’s not just about you being late—it affects everyone else.

Importance of Silence

The culture of silence was another element I had to adjust to. In Japan, people tend to avoid speaking loudly in public, and in some cases, it’s even seen as rude. There’s an unwritten rule that you should keep conversations at a low volume, especially in places like trains or restaurants. As someone from a culture where conversations can get loud and animated, I found it difficult to adjust at first. I remember feeling like I was holding back during group outings because I wasn’t used to the quieter, more restrained style of communication. But over time, I realized how this quieter, more reflective approach contributes to a more peaceful and harmonious society.

I learned that living in Japan means learning to appreciate the subtlety and nuance in every interaction. Even the smallest gesture can carry significant meaning. In many ways, Japan taught me that true connection goes beyond words—it’s in the energy, respect, and thoughtfulness you bring to your relationships.

Cold Winters: “I’m Not Ready for This!”

Here’s something I didn’t expect when I moved to Japan—the harsh cold winters. I had always lived in warmer climates, so the first winter I spent here in Nagano was a huge shock to my system. Nagano is famous for its heavy snow, and let me tell you, it’s not just a light dusting like you see in movies. It’s thick, relentless snow that covers everything in sight.

The first winter was difficult for me, especially since I wasn’t used to the cold. I found myself constantly bundled up in layers, and still, it felt like the cold seeped right through to my bones. It wasn’t just the snow; it was the relentless chill in the air and the dark, short days. I remember feeling a bit isolated, wishing for the sunny days I was used to.

But you know what? Over time, just like the language struggles and cultural shocks, I learned to adapt. I invested in better clothing, much better heater, embraced the beauty of snow-covered landscapes, and even learned to enjoy the cold. There’s something magical about watching the mountains blanketed in white snow, and once I started looking at it from a different perspective, I began to appreciate the winter season as a time for quiet reflection and personal growth.

Living in a place with harsh winters also taught me resilience. Yes, the cold was tough at first, but the challenge of surviving the winter months made me stronger, and I learned how to embrace the challenges life throws my way. I learned how to overcome the difficult, snowy roads, and the importance of maintaining a positive attitude even when everything seemed bleak. The winters here are harsh, but they taught me to find warmth even in the coldest of times and how to push through challenging seasons.

Cost of Living: “How Do People Afford This?!”

Another challenge that hit me hard was the high cost of living in Japan. From rent to groceries to utility bills, everything seemed expensive compared to what I was used to back home. When I first moved here, I was shocked at how much I was paying just to survive. In cities like Tokyo or even Nagano, rent can eat up a large chunk of your salary, and the cost of necessities can add up quickly.

At first, I struggled to make ends meet. There were times when I had to live on a very tight budget, skipping meals out with friends or avoiding certain expenses just to stay afloat. I even tightened my belt too much just to save money to send to my family, and some friends asking or borrowing money and to buy simple souvenirs for my relatives and friends. And let’s not even talk about the bills—the utilities, the insurance, the taxes… (you do your research) it all felt overwhelming!

But as time passed, I learned to manage my finances in a way that worked for me. I got better at budgeting (still learning), learning how to say “no” when needed, figuring out where I could cut costs, and finding ways to live more frugally without sacrificing my needs. I also became more aware of the difference between wants and needs, and people who are only taking advantage or people who are really in need.

The high cost of living forced me to learn how to prioritize what matters the most and to become more resourceful and better with money, time, and energy management. It was a wake-up call to be more mindful of how I spent my energy, time, attention, and hard-earned money. And I always continue believing that God always provides and is always with us and there is nothing to worry about as long as we trust in Him and do not stop trying and doing our best.

Looking back, all of these struggles—have played a major role in my growth. In a way, these challenges have shaped me into a more resilient, and adaptable person. The cultural shocks enhanced my patience and respect for the values of others. The language barrier pushed me to become more persistent and humble. The cold winters showed me the power of resilience, while the cost of living made me more financially savvy and mindful of my priorities.

It hasn’t always been easy, because, in every adjustment, and change I made in my life, some people misunderstood me, but I believe that as long as God knows that I am not harming anyone, I’ll keep learning through every struggle. And I wouldn’t trade those lessons for anything.

If you’re considering moving to Japan or if you’re already here facing your own set of challenges, my piece of advice is simple: Don’t give up. Embrace the journey, because the challenges you face will help you grow in ways you never imagined. Living in Japan has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life, and I know it can be the same for you. Every struggle is an opportunity to become a better version of yourself. So, take the leap, trust in the process, and most importantly, trust God and yourself.

Thanks for reading, and I hope these experiences inspire you to make the most out of your adventure in Japan. I’ll see you at the next one!