What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Japan. They wrote...
"Being constantly told that I am not allowed to do something or not allowed to go somewhere because I am a foreigner. Racism is rampant in Japan and there are some people who take it to an extreme. Dealing with the police for anything is a part of that as well since the police are the ultimate defenders of Japanese culture and unless you have a Japanese person with you there they will not give you any service whatsoever. Additionally, if a crime is committed against you, it isn't because you are the victim, it's because you invited the criminal to commit the act - in other words a foreigner cannot get a conviction against a native Japanese person based solely upon their race," remarked another expat who made the move to Tomobe, Japan.
"One of the most challenging aspects of the Japanese culture for expats is the language barrier. Many expats find it difficult to learn the language and communicate effectively with locals. Additionally, the Japanese culture is very hierarchical and can be difficult to navigate for those unfamiliar with it. Expats may also find it difficult to adjust to the Japanese customs and etiquette, such as bowing and taking off shoes when entering a home. Finally, the Japanese work culture can be quite demanding, with long hours and a focus on work over leisure," explained one expat living in Japan.
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Japan?
- How do I meet people in Japan?
- What is life like in Japan?
- Is there a lot of crime in Japan?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Japan accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Japan like?
- Is the cost of living in Japan high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Japan?
- What are healthcare services like in Japan?
- Is the cost of living in Japan high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Japan?
- What is the weather like in Japan?
- Are there good restaurants in Japan?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Japan?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Japan?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Japan?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Japan?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Japan?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in Japan, newcomers to Japan would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
